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A bold new theme: “Superfine: Tailoring black style”
The Metropolitan Museum of Art has revealed the official theme for the 2025 Met Gala, and it’s set to be one of the most culturally significant exhibitions in recent years. The theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” is inspired by Monica L. Miller’s 2009 book Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity. The exhibition and Gala will explore the style and influence of Black men throughout history, particularly focusing on dandyism — an aesthetic and cultural movement that flourished from the 18th century to the present day.
The exhibit will take visitors on a journey through the evolution of Black men’s fashion, examining how their style has been a form of resistance, self-expression, and empowerment within the context of colonialism, racism, and the broader diaspora. By looking at key moments from history and modern-day Black style, the exhibit will show how Black men have shaped fashion and culture while simultaneously challenging traditional norms.
According to Vogue, the exhibition will feature garments, paintings, and photographs that chronicle the unique styling of Black men, placing dandyism as not just a fashion statement but a form of cultural identity. The legacy of Black dandyism, from its roots in the 18th century to contemporary icons like Pharrell Williams and A$AP Rocky, will be front and center. The exhibition is scheduled to run from May 6 to October 26, 2025.
Meet the co-chairs: A star-studded lineup
The 2025 Met Gala will be co-chaired by a diverse and impressive group of figures from the world of fashion, sports, and entertainment. Joining Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, who has chaired the event since 1995, will be:
- Colman Domingo – The Tony Award-winning actor and director known for his standout roles in Euphoria and Fear the Walking Dead, and for his boundary-pushing work on Broadway.
- Lewis Hamilton – The legendary Formula 1 driver, regarded as one of the greatest in the history of the sport, known for his advocacy on racial equality and sustainability.
- A$AP Rocky – The rapper and fashion icon, who has long been celebrated for his boundary-pushing style, will be making his return as a co-chair after attending several Gala events.
- Pharrell Williams – The multi-talented musician, producer, and fashion mogul, who previously served as a co-chair in 2017 for the Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garçons: Art of the In-Between exhibition.
- LeBron James – The basketball superstar and cultural influencer will serve as the honorary co-chair for the first time, bringing his star power and advocacy for social justice to the Gala.
This diverse lineup represents a mix of influential voices who have made their mark in fashion, sports, music, and entertainment, making them perfect fits to help lead the Gala’s celebration of Black style and cultural contributions.
What to expect: The dress code and more
As with every Met Gala, the event will feature a strict dress code that aligns with the theme of the exhibition. While the specific dress code for “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” will not be revealed until early 2025, attendees can expect an opportunity to showcase the intricacies of Black dandyism and its evolution throughout history. The Gala will likely see a mix of contemporary interpretations and historic references, with guests likely drawing inspiration from the world of Black men’s fashion — from the tailored suits of the 18th century to modern interpretations of dandyism seen in artists like Frank Ocean, André 3000, and, of course, the Gala’s co-chairs.
The 2025 Met Gala will be a celebration of the power of fashion and style as a tool for expressing Black identity, resilience, and artistry. With the influence of Black cultural icons at the forefront, attendees will likely push the boundaries of traditional red-carpet fashion, creating unforgettable moments that both honor and transform the narrative around Black style.
A new era for the Met Gala
The 2025 Met Gala is set to break new ground not only in the fashion world but also in its exploration of Black culture and the legacies of style within the African diaspora. As the Metropolitan Museum of Art continues to highlight fashion’s cultural significance, this year’s Gala promises to be an unforgettable night of style, culture, and social conversation.
With the announcement of “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style”, it’s clear that the Gala’s spotlight will shine brightly on the power of Black expression through fashion. As celebrities and artists gear up for the red carpet, one can only imagine the stunning displays of creativity and cultural homage that will unfold on May 5, 2025.