The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute is set to unveil a groundbreaking exhibition titled “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” which will run from May 10 to October 26, 2025. This exhibition seeks to explore the rich narrative of Black dandyism and its role in fashion history as both a sartorial declaration and a means for social and political change. Following the Met Gala on May 5, art enthusiasts and fashion lovers alike will have the opportunity to view a selection of garments from various BIPOC designers that embody this important cultural concept.
The exhibition will include a remarkable collection of works. Beyond the runway, these works will chronicle the progression of menswear, as viewed through the colorful prism of Black dandyism. One of the standouts is a jockstrap midiskirt by Martine Rose, called The Modern Midi ($465). Look at that showstopper Silk Maxidress by Christopher John Rogers! It has a beautiful sailor silk and wool-blend textile and retails for $2,095. The Wales Bonner Floral Wrap Skirt in gorgeous satin with a colorful floral print will be priced at $945. In even better news, LaQuan Smith’s tailored Pin-Tuck Button-Up top will cost just $1,125.
A Showcase of Iconic Designs
Besides these extraordinary costumes, the exhibition will include a sampling of signature garments from several BIPOC-owned brands. One of those is the Powder Pink Blazer created by Sergio Hudson, a single-breasted wool blazer retailing for $1,895. The Printed Trouser by Theophilio Theophilio’s sensational leopard print trouser runs $400. To be shown, Diotima’s Embellished Suit Vest, a long Tower wool vest $1,295.
The Fresh Jacket, created by Tove Aster, joins the amazing roster of talent. This chic stunner with a draped asymmetric crepe silhouette is $1,365. Last but certainly not least, Off-White’s Pinstripe Mini, a draped minidress made out of a wool-blend, costs $2,015. Collectively, each work is a testament to the talent, imagination, and skill of today’s BIPOC fashion designers.
Exploring Dandyism
Our interpretations Through our upcoming, dandyism will be interpreted through a multi-disciplinary lens. Visual representation of the exhibition on the Met’s website Curators Robert W. Wanser & Matthew Yokobosky have created an amazing display of garments, accessories, paintings, photographs, decorative arts and more from the 18th century to present day. This exhibition considers dandyism as an aesthetic and a subversive practice that created new social and political possibilities.
By showcasing these designs and their historical context, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” invites visitors to engage with fashion not just as a form of self-expression but as a powerful tool for social commentary.
Significance in Fashion History
The exhibition will be opening to the public in just 2 weeks, on May 10th. It’s sure to provoke thought, spark discussion, and stir a bit of controversy, as it boldly explores the interplay between identity and fashion. Shifting the emphasis on Black dandyism forward to the present proves that fashion can be a launching point for discovering more nuanced social questions.
With BIPOC designers making the most valuable contributions to the fashion world, this exhibition celebrates their influence. It stands for cultural diversity in shaping the industry. This celebration of style aims to inspire future generations and highlight the voices of those who have shaped fashion history.