"Superfine: Tailoring Black Style" – A Celebration of Black Fashion’s Impact at the Met

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is poised to unveil its spring exhibit, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," a compelling exploration of the profound influence of Black culture on the world of fashion. The exhibit, timed to coincide with the highly anticipated Met Gala on May 5th, promises a rich tapestry of garments, accessories, and art, all meticulously curated to showcase the innovative spirit and sartorial ingenuity of the Black diaspora.

Colman Domingo, the acclaimed actor known for his roles in "Sing Sing" and "Rustin," is serving as a co-chair for this year’s Met Gala, a significant fundraiser for the Costume Institute. During a media preview held at the Met, Domingo shared a personal anecdote, reflecting on the three men who shaped his own sense of style: his brother, his stepfather, and his biological father. He fondly recalled his father, also named Colman, whose flamboyant wardrobe ranged from tight, Italian flared trousers to preacher robes, the latter representing his spiritual side – despite, as Domingo humorously added, his father’s reputation as a womanizer, eliciting laughter from the audience. This personal touch underscored the exhibit’s central theme: the inextricable link between personal identity, cultural expression, and fashion.

Domingo also highlighted a quote from the esteemed George C. Wolfe, encapsulating the core message of the exhibit: "God created black people and black people created style." This powerful statement serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Black individuals in shaping trends and defining the very essence of style.

"Superfine" is organized under the guidance of Andrew Bolton, the Costume Institute’s head curator, and Monica L. Miller, guest curator and author of the influential 2009 book "Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity." Miller’s book serves as a foundational text for the exhibit, providing a critical framework for understanding the historical and cultural context of Black fashion.

The exhibit delves into the multicultural fusion of African and European styles that emerged during the Atlantic diaspora, the period of forced migration and displacement of African communities due to the transatlantic slave trade between the 16th and 19th centuries. It examines how Black individuals, even in the face of unimaginable adversity, used fashion as a tool for self-expression, resistance, and the preservation of cultural identity. The exhibition showcases how the blending of traditions created unique styles, evolving over generations.

The range of pieces on display is remarkably diverse, spanning centuries and genres. From leather boots worn by the renowned French playwright Alexandre Dumas in the 1800s to one of Prince’s iconic white polyester shirts from his "Purple Rain" era in 1984, the exhibit captures the breadth and depth of Black fashion’s influence. The inclusion of Prince’s garment highlights how Black musicians, artists, and performers have consistently pushed boundaries and redefined aesthetic norms.

Adjacent to Prince’s exhibit, lies the work of Bianca Saunders, a talented British menswear designer. Saunders, who previously dressed Usher for the Met Gala, is making her debut at The Met with three of her designs featured in the exhibit. Overwhelmed with emotion, Saunders expressed her excitement and disbelief at having her work included in such a prestigious institution.

Standing before one of her designs – a white cotton shirt paired with black twill pants – Saunders explained her perspective on dandyism, viewing it as a form of self-expression and rebellion practiced by her friends and the men she dresses. "I feel like all the men that I do dress are dandy," she stated, underscoring her commitment to creating clothing that empowers individuals to express their unique identities. Saunders will also be outfitting two men for this year’s Met Gala red carpet.

She added, "The exhibit reminds me of all the things that I’ve worked so hard to be a part of. I’m just really taking it in."

Adam Mosseri, the head of Instagram, accompanied Domingo and Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour to the media preview. Mosseri emphasized the importance of fashion as a content pillar for Instagram, which is a partner for this year’s Met Gala fundraiser. He shared that celebrities often inquire about the platform’s future developments, seeking ways to leverage Instagram for their businesses and storytelling endeavors. Mosseri also values the feedback he receives from users, viewing it as an integral part of his role.

In past years, Instagram’s table at the Met Gala has hosted prominent figures such as Tyla and Doja Cat, along with Colman Domingo. For the sixth consecutive year, the platform will also host a creator watch party, an event held at The Mark hotel, which has become the unofficial headquarters for the Met Gala. "I just love meeting creative people from all different industries and getting to hear a little bit about how they do what they do," Mosseri said, highlighting the personal rewards of his position. "That I think is one of the perks of the job."

The "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style" exhibit is more than just a display of clothing; it is a powerful narrative about identity, creativity, and resilience. It recognizes the profound and often overlooked contributions of Black individuals to the world of fashion, celebrating their enduring legacy and inspiring future generations of designers and style icons. The exhibit is a landmark event, offering a long-overdue tribute to the boundless creativity and innovative spirit of the Black diaspora. The Met Gala serves as a powerful platform to bring attention to the work and to celebrate its designers.