The theme of the 2025 Met Gala is "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," with the accompanying dress code "Tailored for You." This theme celebrates Black style and the history of Black dandyism, focusing on menswear and the role of sartorial style in shaping Black identities across the Atlantic diaspora from the 18th century to today
. The exhibition and gala draw inspiration from Monica L. Miller’s 2009 book Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity. It explores how Black people have used fashion as both an aesthetic and a form of political and social expression, particularly through tailored suits and menswear that reclaim power and resist stereotypes. The theme highlights the evolution of Black dandyism from the post-Emancipation period through the Harlem Renaissance and beyond, showcasing personalized tailoring, bright colors, and accessories that have influenced contemporary menswear
. This is the first Met Gala since 2003 to focus exclusively on menswear and Black designers, with co-chairs including Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams, and Anna Wintour, and honorary chair LeBron James
