Published on May 2, 2025 at 12:35 PM
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The most wonderful time of year (for fashion), is upon us and the anticipation is stronger than ever. Not Fashion Week, but the annual Met Gala in tandem with the unveiling of the Metropolitan Museum of Art exhibition. Although the red carpet always gives us plenty of outfit inspiration, this year's theme of Black dandyism, which speaks to the brilliance and innovation of Black culture, has us even more galvanized.
What Is the 2025 Met Gala Theme?
This year's theme, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," inspired by Monica L. Miller's book "Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity" examines the role of Black identity and authority in the sartorial realm, particularly in menswear. It's "purposefully designed to provide guidance and invite creative interpretation," as Vogue explained. Not only is it the first Costume Institute exhibition to focus on menswear since 2003's "Men In Skirts," but it's also a moment that invites and challenges the world to fully celebrate the impact of Black men in fashion, without tokenism or appropriation — the Black dandy in particular.
Let's be clear: Black dandyism is more than just aesthetics. It's a cultural movement, a source of pride, and a method of resistance to the rigid pressures that society put on our community. To be impeccably dressed and groomed was a direct defiance to the systemic racism and insidious stereotypes thrust upon Black people — it's our way of defining who we are for ourselves despite what society may say or think.
Black dandyism is more than just aesthetics. It's a cultural movement, a source of pride, and a method of resistance to the rigid pressures that society put on our community.
And this year's co-chairs all exude this attitude in their respective industries: Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, and Pharrell Williams. Furthermore, Image Architect Law Roach, a modern Black dandy, creative directed Vogue Magazine's Met Gala issue, will dress several stars for the event, and is collaborating with New York's The Dominick Hotel on a specialty cocktail in honor of this year's ball. Through this exhibition and this year's Gala, the world is bound to witness the history, evolution, and future of a Black dandy interpreted through the sartorial lens, in all of his glory.
Ahead, I curated a shopping guide to one of the most meaningful Met Gala themes to date — and a way of dressing that goes far beyond the moment: Black dandyism will be relevant and celebrated forever. Through these pieces, you too can apply the Black dandy aesthetic to your style and everyday life this Monday and beyond. From Black-owned brands you'll love to affordable must-haves worn by your favorite celebrities, these are the dandiest pieces to incorporate into your everyday wardrobe.
In case you're looking for something specific, browse through our categories for easier shopping:
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A Headscarf
Zara Polka Dot Print Scarf ($30)
The Black dandy is hardly seen without an ascot in his suit pocket. You can throw your own spin on the style hack with this green-and-plum scarf, styling it with a white or tan suit for a pop of color.
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A Necktie
Casa Clara Royalie Tie ($42)
Is a Black dandy really a dandy without a tie? The trend has been heightening in recent months, and this year's Met Gala theme gives you full clearance to finally try it out. Style it with a white button-down shirt and choose traditional trousers or go bold with a mini skirt.
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A White Blouse
Aritzia Hestia Blouse ($98)
A white blouse is already a wardrobe staple, and this high neck top takes it to such a classy level. With this pick, you can easily tie the front into a sophisticated bow or wear as is.
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A Vest
Anthropologie Maeve Shrunken Vest ($118)
Consider this your sign to start adding vests into your wardrobe. We love its crisp cut and slightly cinched waist that can easily go with any bottom, from a midi skirt to matching pants.
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Wide Leg Pants
Naked Wardrobe Pinstripe Wide Leg Pants ($128)
Another distinct mark of a Black dandy? Classic prints like pinstripe. This iteration from Naked Wardrobe combines menswear and femininity seamlessly, thanks to its subtle high waist and wide legs.
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A Wide Brim Hat
Cuyana Wide Brim Ecuador Hat ($148)
If you don't know anything else about a dandy, you should know that he wears a hat. Whether it's a wide-brimmed fedora or porkpie, on Black Dandies, this hat is a reflection of pride. This neutral style from Cuyana is a great modern version.
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A Statement Ring
Johnny Nelson Jewelry Malcolm X Ring ($175)
Jewelry isn't just jewelry for a dandy. It's a way to tell a story and communicate who you are without using words. This ring from Black-owned brand Johnny Nelson Jewelry features civil rights legend Malcolm X, paying homage to a titan of Black cultural history.
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A Blazer
The Frankie Shop Tansy Oversized Blazer ($285)
When in doubt, go with a blazer. The wardrobe item has evolved far beyond workwear and is a go-to closet staple for a dandy. We love how the Frankie Shop nailed the traditional piece with this beige-meets-gray blazer.
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A Classy Heel
Larroude Ivory Ines Pump ($330)
Whether you're inspired by Teyana Taylor's white pumps in Vogue Magazine's Met Gala issue or you're on the hunt for a new pair for Spring, consider these heels from Larroude. At just 2.5 inches, they're equal parts comfortable and chic. The pointy heel and straps give them a sophisticated edge that's perfect for pairing with suits.
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A Loafer
Nomasei Nono Loafers ($550)
The number one shoe choice of a dandy? Loafers. We love the gold hand detailing and color story on this pair from Nomasei — both details instantly bringing a modern flair to the timeless shoe.
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An Evening Skirt
Sergio Hudson Cumberbund Evening Maxi Skirt ($1,395)
A dandy doesn't need an occasion to dress up. This Sergio Hudson maxi skirt is perfect for any glamorous moment whether you're stepping out for a gala, hosting friends at home, or just dressing up for fun. Its pleated, cummerbund-inspired waistband and small train just scream elegance.
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An Edge Control
Pattern Edge Control ($14)
Vogue Magazine's Met Gala Issue showed us how women can apply the dandy approach to their beauty routines, especially with their hairstyles. This edge gel from Tracee Ellis Ross's brand has ingredients like camellia sinensis leaf extract, cucumber fruit extract, and aloe leaf juice — all perfect for laying down your baby hairs, whether you're doing a slicked back bun or old Hollywood finger waves.
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A Lipstick
Pat McGrath Matte Trance Lipstick ($39)
Pat McGrath is a makeup legend, and the Queen of the Met Gala. While it remains to be seen who she'll be glamming this year, you can bring a touch of her artistry to your everyday routine with this richly pigmented lipstick. A red lip is not only bold and attention-grabbing but it adds the perfect finishing touch to sharp suiting.
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A Beard Trimmer
Bevel Men's Hair and Beard Trimmer ($200)
Being properly groomed is one of the top qualities of a dandy. With this trimmer from Bevel, you can skip a trip to the barber shop and cater to all your grooming needs at home. Whether you're doing a full shave or cleaning up your jaw line, this device performs consistently for hours on one charge and even comes with a rechargeable battery.
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A Vase
The Oma Shop Earthling Parametric Radiata 3D Vase ($30)
Black dandyism is all about a luxurious state of being. This isn't necessarily defined by outlandish logos or pricey items, but by pieces that exude peace and stillness, which is a luxury for Black people. This vase from The Oma Shop captures that vibe and will easily elevate your space, from the bedroom to the living room.
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Wall Decor
Opalhouse Designed With Jungalow™ Botanical Leaf Wallpaper ($34)
For those wanting to upgrade their space while shopping a Black-owned brand on a budget, look no further than this wallpaper co-designed by Justina Blakeney. Whether you're a minimalist or maximalist, this striped pattern of leafy vines in black over a white background will give your room instant charm.
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A Coffee Table Book
Superfine: Tailoring Black Style Book ($75)
There's no better way to integrate this year's Met Gala theme into your everyday life than by purchasing one of the books that inspired it. This masterpiece written by Monica L. Miller explores the legacy of Black dandy fashion and menswear across three centuries, from the current hip-hop scene to the Harlem Renaissance. Not to mention, the cover, which features a portrait of rising model Christian Latchman, is simply stunning.
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Wineglasses
Estelle Colored Glass Wineglasses ($93, originally $185)
In case you've been on the hunt for a Black-owned decor brand, consider Estelle Colored Glass. With the warm weather seasons officially in full swing, you'll want these wineglasses for all your upcoming summer soirées.
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Naomi Parris is the assistant shopping editor at PS, based in New York. With over eight years of experience and previous roles held on the brand's Beauty and Operations teams, she enjoys telling stories that merge fashion, beauty, and Black culture. Naomi has also lent her skillful pen to Essence Girls United, Elle, Bustle, and Elite Daily. When she's not crafting shopping roundups, high-profile features, beauty op-eds, or trend guides, you can find Naomi behind her blog "Eli-Nay," where she inspires readers through style guides, cultural pieces, and innovative content on her Instagram.