The Met Gala returned to the Metropolitan Museum of Art last night, where a mix of stunning A-listers and boundary-pushing artists gathered to celebrate the opening of “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” the Costume Institute’s latest show. Among the notable attendees to walk the red carpet were Diana Ross, Spike Lee, Cynthia Erivo, and Megan Thee Stallion.
This year’s gala was co-hosted by Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, along with actor Colman Domingo, race car driver Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, and Pharrell Williams—all noted for their sharp personal style. The red carpet also welcomed leading contemporary artists Amy Sherald, Arthur Jafa, Rashid Johnson, Jordan Casteel, and Lauren Halsey. The dress code for the night was dubbed “Tailored for You.”
The exhibition, co-curated by Black culture scholar Monica L. Miller and Met curator Andrew Bolton, explores the role of style in Black American history, with a particular focus on menswear. Drawing from a tradition of Black dandyism, “Superfine” investigates how fashion has been used as a tool for self-expression, resistance, and cultural identity. The term “dandy” originated in 18th-century Europe, describing men with a flair for tailored clothing and the arts, but it took on new meanings in Black communities.
During the era of slavery, dandyism was often associated with Black servants wearing fashionable, if outdated, attire from their employers. Over time, this aesthetic evolved beyond assimilation and became a medium for challenging social norms, including gender conventions. Bright colors, sharp tailoring, and garments like the 1940s zoot suits exemplified a style that was both expressive and political, with figures such as James Baldwin and Sammy Davis Jr. contributing to its broader cultural resonance.
Some of the co-hosts paid tribute to Black icons with their looks. In particular, Domingo wore a blue Valentino cape reminiscent of former Vogue editor-at-large André Leon Talley. Hamilton said his patent leather shoes also referenced the late fashion journalist, as did Anne Hathaway’s white button-down shirt and Carolina Herrera column dress, as reported by CNN.
“Superfine” is the first time the Costume Institute has featured a show of exclusively Black designers, and the second ever to focus on menswear. The show is organized into 12 distinct sections, with titles such as “Champion” or “Cosmopolitan.” The clothing will be accompanied by a selection of paintings, photographs, accessories, and more. The show will be on view until October 26th.
