Avery Kelley 
A plethora of Hollywood’s finest showed up on the famous Manhattan steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art for the annual Met Gala, showing out in their finest tailored suits and bolded statement pieces.
And it’s safe to say…the criteria for this year’s theme: “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” which honors dandyism, was definitely met.
Personally speaking, I almost lost my mind writing this article. When taking a deep dive into each look from the night, I immediately thought, “How am I supposed to pick a favorite?”. So many artists and entrepreneurs brought their A-game for this year’s fashion Super Bowl. Discussing one look would be impossible.
So why do one when you can do three?
Starting the night, we must hand the crown over to none other than the co-chair of all co-chairs, Colman Domingo. The American actor and playwright was hand-picked to serve as one of the five Black men to be creative directors for this year’s gala even after attending for his FIRST time last year (no surprise since he is true fashion royalty). Gracing the museum steps, Domingo wore a custom Valentino look, with Boucheron jewels. His first look, featuring a royal blue robe elegantly topped off with gold jewels, fur, feathers, and pearl-teardrop-shaped necklaces, was inspired by African-American designer and trailblazer Andre Leon Talley, paying homage to his groundbreaking work within the fashion industry.
But the true statement…lies underneath.
Soon after, on the blue carpet, the actor unveiled a black and white plaid suit, with a tweed jacket, a polka dot tie, gray slacks, and a large flower to top things off. The look, exhibiting class and culture, truly takes dandyism to the next level.
However, what is true dandyism without a twist? A splash of creativity? Breaking norms?
Teyanna Taylor broke every barrier in the book. The singer-songwriter, actress, and host of this year’s Met Gala Vogue livestream did NOT come to play. Her masterful nod to the Black dandy style was handcrafted by Oscar-award winning designer Ruth E. Carter. The custom Marc Jacobs piece was a perfect combination of custom-tailoring, bold statements, and elegance. She immediately set the tone for the evening through her feathered ruby red fedora, pinstripe suit, custom chains, and my personal favorite detail…a durag train. Can you say creativity?
And last, but certainly not least, my final hurrah goes to the one and only “Time-traveling dandy” Janelle Monáe. Known for always turning heads at the gala, she was sure to not disappoint. The ensemble, consisting of a black, red, and white pointy pinstripe suit tailored with sharp shoulder blades, a black top hat, and a diamond brooch. The design, made in collaboration with Oscar-winner Paul Tazewell and Thom Browne, took innovation to new heights.
It is safe to say that this year’s Met was unforgettable. Topping it will for sure be a challenge.
By Avery Kelley
Instagram: @askaveryk / Twitter: @averykels
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