Black Dandyism Is More Than a Moment For Me – Here’s How I’m Shopping It

The most wonderful time of year (for fashion), is upon us and the anticipation is stronger than ever. Not Fashion Week, but the annual Met Gala in tandem with the unveiling of the Metropolitan Museum of Art exhibition. Although the red carpet always gives us plenty of outfit inspiration, this year’s theme of Black dandyism, which speaks to the brilliance and innovation of Black culture, has us even more galvanized.

What Is the 2025 Met Gala Theme?

This year’s theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” inspired by Monica L. Miller’s book “Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity” examines the role of Black identity and authority in the sartorial realm, particularly in menswear. It’s “purposefully designed to provide guidance and invite creative interpretation,” as Vogue explained. Not only is it the first Costume Institute exhibition to focus on menswear since 2003’s “Men In Skirts,” but it’s also a moment that invites and challenges the world to fully celebrate the impact of Black men in fashion, without tokenism or appropriation – the Black dandy in particular.

Let’s be clear: Black dandyism is more than just aesthetics. It’s a cultural movement, a source of pride, and a method of resistance to the rigid pressures that society put on our community. To be impeccably dressed and groomed was a direct defiance to the systemic racism and insidious stereotypes thrust upon Black people – it’s our way of defining who we are for ourselves despite what society may say or think.

And this year’s co-chairs all exude this attitude in their respective industries: Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, and Pharrell Williams. Furthermore, Image Architect Law Roach, a modern Black dandy, creative directed Vogue Magazine’s Met Gala issue, will dress several stars for the event, and is collaborating with New York’s The Dominick Hotel on a specialty cocktail in honor of this year’s ball. Through this exhibition and this year’s Gala, the world is bound to witness the history, evolution, and future of a Black dandy interpreted through the sartorial lens, in all of his glory.

Ahead, I curated a shopping guide to one of the most meaningful Met Gala themes to date – and a way of dressing that goes far beyond the moment: Black dandyism will be relevant and celebrated forever. Through these pieces, you too can apply the Black dandy aesthetic to your style and everyday life this Monday and beyond. From Black-owned brands you’ll love to affordable must-haves worn by your favorite celebrities, these are the dandiest pieces to incorporate into your everyday wardrobe.

In case you’re looking for something specific, browse through our categories for easier shopping:

• Best Black Dandyism Fashion Essentials
• Best Black Dandyism Beauty Essentials
• Best Black Dandyism Decor Essentials