Superfine: Tailoring Black Style & the Met Gala
Untitled 3, 2005 by Jody Ake
The Metropolitan Museum of Art's just announced their upcoming Costume Institute exhibition, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” The exhibition will delve into the rich history of Black style and its profound impact on global culture. And while we wait for the official announcement of the Met Gala theme to be announced, it’s highly likely that the exhibition will inform the star studded event next spring.
Celebrating Black Dandyism
Inspired by the seminal book "Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity" by Monica Miller, the exhibition will explore the evolution of Black dandyism as both an aesthetic and political movement. From the days of slavery to the present, Black individuals have used fashion as a tool to assert their identity, challenge societal norms, and shape trends. This also represents the first time since 2003 that the Met has focused exclusively on menswear.
Clockwise: Lebron James, Pharrell Williams, Lewis Hamilton and A$AP Rocky.
A Star-Studded Affair
As a watch enthusiast, I’m tapped in of course, given that the chairs of the co-chairs of the exhibition are some of the hottest watch collectors, ambassadors and influencers in the game right now. Pharrell Williams, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, Coleman Domingo, and Anna Wintour, with LeBron James as an honorary chair. All of these men have topped best dressed lists and been featured wearing grail pieces for many years. So I’m excited to see how they work with Anna to not only honor the theme, but bring their unique insights to this moment. Coleman’s red carpet streak alone this year is one for the books - chef’s kiss!
Menswear’s Moment
Menswear is undeniably having a moment, particularly among women. This summer's wave of global sporting events – the Olympics, World Cup, and the surging popularity of the WNBA – has undeniably fueled this trend. From jerseys and sneakers to more subtle influences, we're seeing menswear seamlessly integrated into everyday street style. Celebrities like Rihanna have embraced this shift, exemplified by the rise of the "blokette" aesthetic, further solidifying the trend's cultural impact. This trend is evident on the runway as well, with YSL's latest Spring/Summer collection from Paris Fashion Week serving as a prime example. From a fashion and culture perspective, I’m excited to see the looks from celebrities like Teyana Taylor, Rihanna, and Zendaya, will pull off. All known for their fearless fashion sense. I’m excited to see how the ladies in particular accessories.
Styling Time
I'm eager to see leather and exotic straps, stone dials, pocket watches, and even sautoirs reimagined with a modern twist. Additionally, I'm curious about the specific timepieces that will be included in the exhibition. For the watch industry, this is a golden opportunity to explore how watches can seamlessly integrate into the overall aesthetic, not just as wristwear but as part of a broader ensemble.
