"Superfine, Tailoring Black Style" 05/2025

Inception -

Social media has caught on to the first Monday in May otherwise known as the Met Gala. Truth be told, this event wasn't nearly as glitzy in its inception. Stemming from just 50 or so notable attendees to the present-day celebrity and / or dignitary figure.

The Metropolitan Museum's goal annually, is to fundraise a charitable amount for the Costume Institute. A theme is conceptualized and brought to life by both emerging and renowned fashion designers under the direction of Conde Nast and the woman who sits as Editor-in-Chief, Anna Wintour.

Theme -

In a year that has seen the decimation of many fundamental programs by current governance, the theme "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style" seems almost - rebellious and in certain circumstances a repellant to right-wing radicals who deem anything of civility "woke."

A breath of fresh air and most importantly color, in my opinion.

As worded beautifully by Instagram's, UPNEXTDESIGNER and Vogue US, the theme

"Superfine: Tailoring Black Style" champions 300 years of Black fashion and Dandyism through Africa and its impact with reference to, Dr. Monica L. Miller's book - Slaves to Fashion.

Style -

Cultural revolutions such as the Harlem Renaissance and the rise of African American social-economic society transformed tailoring, and access to expression through clothing. This once again proved a stylistic rebellion to a Jim Crow Americana. Pinstripes, color, shapes and exuberance defined black Dandyism.

In a country stricken with divide, it was beautiful to sit and watch this event broadcasted live through Vogue, my mother next to me. My Met Issue in lap and a people celebrated in vibrancy versus, stripped.

Jason Gaither

Andre Leon Talley 1948 - 2022