META GALA 2025: Black Dandyism Through the Decades

Even if you don’t love fashion, you’re going to want to tune into this year’s Met Gala red carpet on May 5. The dress code, “Tailored For You,” is nod to the Costume Institute’s exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” The interpretation of the theme is intended to be a nod to Black history and the culture of Dandyism which came out of the trans-Atlantic slave trade when stylish Black slaves were seen as a status symbol for their white owners. And with host committee members that include Usher, F1 racer Lewis Hamilton and Janelle Monae, you know the stars are going to show up and show out.

As we hold our collective breath and wait to see the styles that hit the red carpet at this year’s Met Gala, we’re taking a look back at some of our favorite examples of Black Dandyism through the decades.

1910 - 1920: Raúl Grigera

Known as the Black dandy of Buenos Aires, Raúl Grigera was a popular fixture on the Argentinian club scene in the 1910s and 20s.

The 1930s

In the 1930s, it was all about well-tailored pants with a cuffed bottom. This man adds plenty of flair, accessorizing with a tilted hat and pocket square.

The 1950s

Fedoras and double-breasted trench coats were common outdoor accessories in the 1950s.

The 1960s

From the 1950s to the 1970s, Sammy Davis Jr. (aka Mister Show Business) was a groundbreaking multihyphenate entertainer who captivated audiences on the stage and screen. With his smooth moves and undeniable swagger, he was known as one of the members of the Rat Pack, along with legendary entertainers Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin.

Miles Davis

Jazz artist Miles Davis was known for wearing tailored suits – that is, until the late 1960s when he got involved with Betty Davis (The Queen of Funk). Betty introduced Miles to a more relaxed, boho approach to fashion. Here, he shows off his style in this photo shoot for his 1968 album “Nefertiti.”

Sapeur Style

Examples of Black dandyism can be found all over the world, including the Congo where the Sapeurs (men known for their ability to dress to impress) subculture was born.

Here, Congolese photographer Maurice Bidilou’s photo of a Sapeur in 1970s perfectly shows off their style.

The 1970s

From the leather jackets and fur coats to the bell bottoms, these guys are making a serious style statement – and please peep the poncho in the back!

Jimi Hendrix

Rocker Jimi Hendrix was the epitome of cool in the 1960s and 70s. We’re not sure if he planned it, but he is shown here hanging out in a velvet suit at Ringo Starr’s London apartment in 1966 looking like he’s trying to blend in with the decor.

Andre Leon Talley

Fashion journalist Andre Leon Talley was known for his colorful caftans and oversized robes. At 6'6", he was a force on the red carpet that could not be missed.

Morris Day

In the 1980s, Morris Day was more than a singer, he was an entertainer. Always dressing to impress, he was rarely spotted in anything other than tailored suiting with colorful shoes and accessories.

Andre 3000

Rapper Andre 3000 not only changed the sound of hip-hop when Outkast hit the scene in the early 1990s, he changed the way rappers looked, opting for suspenders, wigs and boldly colored patterns over baggy jeans and Starter jackets.

Pharrell Williams

Whether through his music or his fashion, Pharrell Williams is ever afraid to push the envelope. As one half of The Neptunes, he and partner Chad Hugo produced chart-topping hits for artists like Snoop Dogg, Justin Timberlake, Britney Spears and Jay-Z. In 2023, he was named men’s creative director at Louis Vuitton.

“I am glad to welcome Pharrell back home, after our collaborations in 2004 and 2008 for Louis Vuitton, as our new Men’s Creative Director. His creative vision beyond fashion will undoubtedly lead Louis Vuitton towards a new and very exciting chapter,” said Pietro Beccari, Louis Vuitton’s Chairman and CEO in a statement.

Wisdom Kaye

Whether he’s wearing a pair of vintage jeans or a tailored tux, model Wisdom Kaye knows what look looks great on him. In an interview with Fashionista, he said his taste is all over the place, and he’s not afraid to take risks with his style.

“There’s a lot of stuff in there because I’m interested in so many different things, so I just try to bring it together and add my own personal taste whenever I make a look,” he said.

Colman Domingo

From fabric and fit to accessories, actor Colman Domingo never misses a detail, and the result is always the same – a perfectly curated outfit that lands him on the best-dressed list.

A$AP Rocky

A$AP Rocky has never been afraid to take risks with fashion. But since becoming a father of three, his style has evolved to embody cool, quiet luxury.