Speechless. Just… speechless.
That was my first reaction after seeing the GQ x Vogue collaboration for the 2025 Met Gala theme: Superfine: Tailoring Black Style. But the emotion that followed? Deep, full-body pride.
Because this—this is what it looks like when Black creatives aren’t just included—we’re centered. We’re curating, directing, styling, capturing, and storytelling. And it’s stunning.
Fashion’s biggest night has always belonged to the bold, the brave, and the beautifully extra. But this year, it felt like a long-overdue homecoming. With an exhibition focused entirely on Black dandyism—our flair, our finesse, our freedom—the Met Gala finally put the lens where it belongs.
Anchored by Monica L. Miller’s groundbreaking scholarship in Slaves to Fashion, the exhibit explores how Black folks have long used style as both armor and art. Dandyism, with its elegance and edge, is not just about being seen—it’s about self-determination. Rewriting the rules. Showing up on our own terms.
But it’s the GQ x Vogue portfolio that truly sent it over the edge for me. This wasn’t just a fashion spread. It was a declaration.
Over 30 Black creatives—from icons like Spike Lee and Dapper Dan to new visionaries like Aaron Pierre, Ayo Edebiri, and Myha’la—styled by the incomparable Law Roach and photographed by the visionary Tyler Mitchell. And when the creative director, stylist, and photographer are all Black? You feel the difference. This wasn’t about checking boxes. This was about reclaiming legacy.
In the world of film and television, the list is long and powerful. Spike Lee, Janelle Monáe, Jeremy Pope, Ayo Edebiri, Naomi Ackie, Teyana Taylor, Danielle Deadwyler, Aaron Pierre, Myha’la, Keith Powers, LaKeith Stanfield, Janicza Bravo, and Yara Shahidi all appeared—each bringing their own version of excellence to the frame. Styled to the nines, yes—but more importantly, presented as their full, expressive selves. This wasn’t about trends. It was about truth.
And not only was it beautiful to look at—it was necessary. For so long, Black people have had to fight to be invited to the table. To be styled, photographed, or seen on our terms. This shoot said: We are the table.
The Met Gala’s 2025 dress code—“Tailored for You”—is more than a nod to custom suiting. It’s a call to tailor narratives that reflect who we are. To show up without shrinking. To walk into every room knowing our style is our legacy. And our legacy? It’s loud, luxe, layered—and absolutely ours.
This isn’t just a moment in fashion history. It’s a cultural marker. An archive in the making. A reminder that Black style doesn’t just set trends—it sets the standard.
So yes, I’m still speechless. But I’m also full of gratitude.
Because when we get to tell our stories—when we lead with our lens—we don’t miss.
For the full article and photos, click here.