This month, the world’s most famous magazine marks its 125th anniversary—quite a milestone! It takes a look into the stunning intersections of Black history, identity, and personal style. This historic edition features four trailblazing cover stars. Among them is actor Colman Domingo, who, with his talented comrades, all serve to underscore the magazine’s mission of honoring Black dandyism. For the past nine months, we’ve been curating this issue. Its suitcase of a suiting portfolio highlighted the new generation muses of Black artists from culture, entertainment, fashion, sports, and fine art.
Colman Domingo reflects on the importance of this issue, stating, “This issue is a historic moment in the life of Vogue.” His optimism reverberates across the pages of the magazine. It explores concepts of identity and liberation in powerful ways, brought to life by fellow A.V. Every artist celebrated Black culture and style through the lens of their diverse and creative backgrounds.
The importance of this issue is only accentuated by the curation of famed stylist, Law Roach. Roach emphasizes the collective nature of the project, saying, “This is bigger than us as individuals. This is bigger than us as actors or actresses or models. It’s the combination of all of us coming together to create something beautiful—for present and for future.”
The sumptuous photography evoking dandyism featuring Iké Udé, Law Roach, and Henry Taylor is only the beginning. Among the highlights within it all are stunning images of Lewis Hamilton, shot by Malick Bodian – atop a new gallery in London. Hamilton got lost in dandy-esque works selected by stylists Ib Kamara and Eric McNeal. This audacious choice shone a light on a breathtaking intersection of fashion, culture, and identity.
Monica Miller, an expert on dandyism, elaborates on its significance within the Black community: “The kind of dictionary definition of dandyism is somebody who studies, above all else, to dress elegantly and fashionably.” She goes on to detail how dandyism intersects with Black identity in captivating ways. This intersection makes visible the multilayered operations of race, gender, class, sexuality and nationality expressed.
Beyond Domingo, Hamilton, Monáe, and Stanfield, the issue features a radiant spectrum of Black excellence. These different contributors—including artists, musicians, film makers and others—greatly enrich our nation’s vivid tapestry of today’s culture. Each cover star captures the spirit of dandyism, as well as how it has transformed and what it means in today’s world.