LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. — Upon navigating the chaos of the Met Gala on May 5, 2025, where stars flooded the blue carpet of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, celebrities and pivotal figures of the fashion industry were prompted to design their luxurious attempts at inventive tailoring and vintage Black Dandyism. The theme itself was “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” with the dress code including styles outlined in Monica L. Miller’s novel “Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity.”

Zendaya in Louis Vuttion

Like always, Zendaya absolutely dominated the Met Gala with her perfectly tailored, silky white suit. Drawing from the Harlem Renaissance’s famed zoot suit, the iconic actor elegantly portrayed the modern Black Dandy. The pearl ensemble and stunning diamonds throughout the piece were altogether serving bridal and excited fans after the recent announcement of her proposal from actor Tom Holland. However, for us, the perfect tie in to her sophisticated piece included her classic white hat and tailored bell bottoms.

With actor Anna Sawai also wearing a similar ivory suit, there was slight controversy at their accidental twinning. Despite this “fashion faux pas,” we still think they both perfectly embodied the Black Dandy.

Tyla in Jacquemus

With Tyla’s pin stripe off the shoulder gown, her outfit was definitely one that stood out to us. Modeled off lined suits–to tie into the Black Dandy theme–her exquisite dress was paired with a matching, effortlessly draped coat that included a long train to finish the look. Like many others of the night, her gown was a nod to the infamous designer Andre Leon Talley to honor his fashion contributions. Although it seemed like a simpler look compared to some of the other extravagance, the softness of her femininity perfectly contrasted between the structured lining and the sleek silhouette, connecting to the menswear theme.

Tessa Thompson in Prabal Gurung

Although her hat was clearly giving Dr. Seuss, her cream dress served as a structured masterpiece. While it included many menswear staples, from it’s white collar and tie, to her suit’s bold black lapels, there was an unmistakable femininity in the sculpted shape of her dress.

As fans of extravagant ruffles, Thompson’s ruffled sleeves were another favorite on the dress. However, the real symbolism was embedded in her vintage hand-held church fan engraved with black designer Anthony Leon Talley’s face. The fan paid homage to Talley’s championing spirit and his remarkable efforts to the fashion industry as a whole.

Gigi Hadid in Miu Miu

Resembling the iconic Josephine Baker and inspired by Playboy designer Zelda Wynn Valdez, Gigi Hadid made 40’s retro happen again, especially with those “boudoir curls.” Channeling old Hollywood mystique, she sauntered up the famous steps of the gala looking like a golden goddess. With the drapes at her waist and the scattered sequins and crystals on the gown, the supermodel appeared dangerously seductive, fluid and feminine.

Ultimately, these versatile celebrities’ interpretations of Black Dandyism made our cut! They all successfully assembled the perfect mix of philosophy and glam. Make sure to follow up with the Met’s innovative exhibit pieces and prepare for the designs of the 2026 Met Gala!