Visiting the “Superfine Tailoring and Dandy Style” exhibit at The Met was nothing short of a masterclass in style, artistry and cultural significance. Walking through the exhibit, I was struck by the sheer range of influences on display, from impeccably tailored suits to streetwear, from Muhammad Ali’s iconic boxing shorts to the regal grandeur of Sunday church style. It was a celebration of fashion in all its forms, but more importantly, it was a celebration of Black artists and designers who have shaped this industry, often without receiving their due credit.
In a time when DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) has become a controversial buzzword rather than a practice, this exhibit felt like a necessary reminder. Co-chaired by style icons A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams, Colman Domingo, and Lewis Hamilton, the show made a bold statement about representation, influence and the cultural roots of style. These men, each a powerhouse in their own right, have consistently used their platforms to elevate Black excellence in fashion, and their presence as co-chairs was a testament to the ongoing impact of Black creatives.
The highlight of the exhibit for me was the work of the late Virgil Abloh, whose designs were not just clothing but cultural commentary. Abloh’s work for Louis Vuitton was a revelation — melding street style with high fashion in a way that demanded recognition. His designs were fearless, boundary-breaking and unapologetically rooted in his own experience as a Black man navigating and dominating the fashion industry.
But the exhibit was not just about celebrating the living — it was also a tribute to legends like André Leon Talley. Talley was a towering figure — literally and metaphorically — in the fashion world, a man who demanded a seat at the table and held it with grace, power and authenticity. His legacy is a reminder that visibility matters, that being unapologetically yourself is a form of rebellion and that style can be a form of protest.
Of course, the exhibit drew massive inspiration from Dapper Dan, the Harlem legend who turned luxury logos into a form of cultural expression long before they were mainstream. And it didn’t stop there — the spotlight shone on Black tailoring through the work of Oswald Boateng, who brought his impeccable craftsmanship from Savile Row, and Grace Wales Bonner, whose work continues to redefine Black excellence on the red carpet.
Designs by Willy Chavarria stood out with their dramatic, oversized silhouettes, making a statement on masculinity and identity. And, of course, Louis Vuitton held a central place in the exhibit, thanks to the indelible influence of Abloh and now Pharrell Williams, whose tenure as the brand’s creative director continues to push the boundaries of what fashion can be.
It’s also worth noting that this exhibit was part of Anna Wintour’s grand tradition — The Met Gala — a night that not only celebrates fashion but also raises millions for the Costume Institute. A night where fashion meets philanthropy, and where, for one evening, style becomes a powerful force for cultural preservation.
“Superfine Tailoring and Dandy Style” was more than just an exhibit — it was a celebration, a reminder and a call to action. It challenged the viewer to recognize the contributions of Black designers, to give credit where it’s due and to remember that style is never just about clothes — it’s about history, identity and the courage to stand tall.
Sober Curator Behind the Scenes: Check out @katevitela IG Reel of this exhibit HERE
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WALK YOUR TALK: Best and Worst Dressed at The Met Gala: Sober Edition
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