Love, Hash

It’s time to strap in folks! It’s less than one day till the 2025 Met Gala and this year’s theme has got me jumping out of my seat.

Come the first Monday of May – fashion’s biggest night of the year – you can find me in my favourite place: front row of my TV, judging couture made by the world’s top designers in my mismatched pajamas.

This year’s exhibition will be exploring the history and evolution of a style that didn’t just impact culture and fashion but has reshaped expressions of Black identity.

The Theme?

“Superfine: Tailoring Black Style”

The Dress Code?

“Tailored for You”

This is also the first time the Met is leaning towards menswear since 2003’s “Men in Skirts” – where, of course, we saw no men in skirts. However, we won’t be expecting that level of disappointment today with men who aren’t afraid to make a statement (still thinking about Pedro Pascal’s 2024 shorts).

But before we get into the what’s and who’s, let’s break down the inspiration behind it all.

For Those Who Don’t Know

A Dandy, by definition, is someone who studies above all else to dress elegantly and fashionably. In the case of black dandies, men used clothing as a form of rebellion.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, enslaved people were dressed in European style “uniforms” to show off their enslavers’ wealth. In turn, black men reclaimed that same style as a form of resistance. They used fashion and elegance as armor – a way to challenge stereotypes and change how the world perceives them, to assert their power and individuality in the face of oppression, and use razor sharp tailoring to command power and respect.

Often referred to as the renaissance of menswear, Black Dandyism has reshaped identities and evolved into powerful a form of self expression.

This is all explored in guest curator Monica L. Miller’s book, Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity, which now serves as the inspiration behind the 2025 fashion exhibition.

Icons like Andre Leon Talley, Law Roach, Prince, Andre 3000 and LaQuan Smith have carried dandyism forward, redefining what self expression, elegance and Black style – and should be your references to this iconic and revolutionary style.

“Someone who celebrates living in a one-of-a-kind body. And tailors EVERYTHING to that body” – Jon Batiste on dandyism.

What Can We Expect?

While some of us might be bracing ourselves for any horrifically inappropriate hairstyles, sacred items or symbols being used as accessories, or basic black suits being someone’s take on this theme – we can definitely expect some thoughtful tributes and stunning ensembles on the iconic Met steps *cough cough* Coleman Domingo *cough*.

“Tailored For you” presents guests with the opportunity to express themselves and their style while embracing the elegance of fine tailoring. And hopefully they’ll actually take it.

Expect a variety of silhouettes from Zoot suit inspired wide-legs pants and oversized blazers, to La-Sape of Congo and of course the classic Dandy – crisp collars, fitted waistcoats and tailcoats and clean tapered trousers.

And I think we all know Pharrell Williams is going to show up in his own design.

It’s All In The Details

From rich textures like velvet and silk (hello Bruno Mars), to elements like high collars, and ascots, designers are not going to miss out on the details that will make a statement. Expect bold hats and gloves, sleek pocket squares and vibrant colours and patterns.

If there’s one thing the Dandies don’t miss out on, it’s the opportunity to turn heads.

The Whos

Coleman Domingo, F1 driver Lewis Hamilton, Pharrell Williams and A$AP Rocky are this year’s co chairs, joined by honorary co chair LeBron James – and Miss Anna Wintour. This marks the first Met Gala with an all black panel of co chairs setting up the stage for what could be one of the most monumental Met Galas yet.

So get your coziest pajamas on, grab a bowl of popcorn and put on your judging caps on because it’s time for the 2025 Met.

See you after the gala!

Love,
Hash