The Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute will explore the history of Black style with a spring exhibition centered on Black dandyism. Titled “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” the show traces menswear from the 18th century through contemporary times.
The exhibition is guest curated by Monica L. Miller, a professor at Barnard College and chair of the Africana Studies Department. Miller's book, "Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity," serves as a starting point for the museum's presentation.
Black dandyism is presented as an undercurrent throughout the exhibition, exploring how style has been used for influence, social commentary, and political statement. The concept encompasses various dimensions, from sharp tailoring to expressive and whimsical dressing.
The show draws on historical examples and contemporary figures, including individuals like tailor Dapper Dan and sports announcer Monica McNutt, among others noted for their distinctive style.
The exhibition aims to offer a multidimensional look at the subject, featuring historical and contemporary garments, accessories, paintings, prints, and decorative objects.
According to a statement on Barnard’s website, the exhibition will be designed around what Zora Neale Hurston defined as the “12 Characteristics of Black Dandyism” in her 1934 essay.
A companion book, also titled "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," co-authored by Miller, further explores the theme, including perspectives from cultural figures and a photo essay.
The exhibition is scheduled to run from May 10 through October 26.
Miller shared on Barnard’s site, “Being able to create a multidimensional world featuring historical and contemporary garments and accessories, paintings, prints, and decorative objects from my book Slaves to Fashion has been an incredible honor and a huge, fantastic challenge.”
