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It's Volume 33 and we're still at The Met. If you went to see Sargent from last edition I hope you saw the fashion exhibit as well. If not there is still time so fear not and keep reading.
Every year starting on the first Monday in May with the Met Gala and running until sometime in the fall, a dedicated fashion curation focused on a specific theme takes shape at The Met. This year on view is Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, an exploration of Black dandyism starting as far back as the 18th century formed in the Atlantic diaspora.
A dandy is someone who uses fashion and their personal style to establish agency over their identity, rewriting societal norms and prior expectations of who they could be. Using a mix of styles from African and European traditions, dandyism ranges from precise fits to opulence and glamour. It is about redefining the way Black people dress and adorn themselves in a changing world. In essence Black dandyism is a sartorial revolution of excellence.
The space is designed by none other than Torkwase Dyson, a renowned interdisciplinary artist. Her theory of "Black Compositional Thought" inspires the architectural forms in many of her works including the displays on view. I will say at first I felt a little thrown off by the layout. I like to walk in a straight forward path in an exhibit but after talking with my friend Madelyn I like her mindset much more. With the different off shoots and pockets created in the space it actually gives the viewer more time to explore and mosey about the room. And I think this show is really about that exploration, going through the dark histories to the inspiring resistance.
The show itself is grouped into twelve categories illustrating several characteristics of dandyism as well as its evolution to today. Themes like Ownership, Presence, Distinction, and Champion are just some to name a few. A big takeaway is the celebration and reverence in the room. With the grandeur of the high ceilings there is fashions at all different eye levels. It keeps you looking up which feels incredibly poignant in a show like this. Black dandyism is that glass half full outlook, that optimistic and playful approach to fashion and who you can express yourself to be.
I had to keep it super simple for this outfit but remember simple doesn't mean bad. On top I wore the Petra Tank which is in 100% cotton slub jersey. I personally love the slub texture, I think it gives a great subtle visual interest. For the bottom I rocked the Suez Skirt but the Palmyra (longer version) is also perfect. The elastic waistband and bias cut makes it really easy to move around and not feel stuck in a skirt. And the side slits give just that little bit of flow and edge.
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