“Exhibition ‘Superfine’ Explores the Linked History of Black Identity and Fashion”

Fashion transcends mere aesthetics; it serves as a means for self-exploration, defiance, and identity formation. This is particularly evident in marginalized groups, where fashion can open doors for political, social, and cultural expression that might otherwise remain unavailable. This concept is precisely what The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Costume Institute aim to examine in their newest exhibition.

Exclusively focused on menswear, *Superfine: Tailoring Black Style* delves into fashion through the perspective of Black style, particularly spotlighting dandyism. The reach of the exhibition is both ambitious and detailed, tracing historical and sartorial advancements from the 18th century to the current era with remarkable intricacy. The showcased garments exemplify this journey, whether manifesting as sleek suits, elegant mesh tops, trendy tracksuits, or roomy sweaters.

With its diverse array of items, *Superfine* might initially feel daunting. To thoughtfully navigate visitors, the exhibition is divided into 12 sections, each aligning with a defining characteristic of its style. One section, for example, explores beauty, featuring garments from the 1970s and 80s that, through their sheer brilliance and flair, challenged conventional notions of masculinity, gender, and sexuality. Another section analyzes “cool” apparel and streetwear that radiate confidence and ease, while yet another highlights the ways in which assimilation, activism, and bias have influenced the “respectable” fashion donned by Black leaders like W.E.B. Du Bois and Frederick Douglass.

However, garments are not the sole focus of *Superfine*. The exhibition also includes paintings, prints, photographs, decor, literary works, and film, further illustrating how Black identity and style have interwoven. A 19th-century photograph portrays “tailor boys” at work in a studio, diligently preparing garments and providing evidence of tailoring as a lasting element of Black culture. Celebrities also appear throughout, evidenced by a 1966 image of Muhammad Ali being fitted for a new suit in London.

According to the Costume Institute, *Superfine* draws significant inspiration from guest curator Monica L. Miller’s 2009 book *Slaves to Fashion*, which details how Black individuals have utilized attire, fashion, and, consequently, dandyism to reshape their identities both within and outside their communities.

“Dandyism may appear trivial, yet it often poses a challenge to or transcends social and cultural hierarchies,” Miller remarked in a statement. “It raises inquiries about identity, representation, and mobility in terms of race, class, gender, sexuality, and power. The exhibition engages with this idea as both a statement and a challenge.”

While in New York, My Modern Met’s editor-in-chief, Eugene Kim, also experienced *Superfine*: “A visit to The Metropolitan Museum of Art is always delightful, but entering *Superfine: Tailoring Black Style* felt like stepping back in time. The suits and garments were exquisitely crafted, and the narratives behind them were profoundly enlightening. It’s an enthralling way to witness history through fashion and style.”

*Superfine: Tailoring Black Style* is currently available for viewing at the Met Fifth Avenue until October 26, 2025. For planning your visit, visit the Met’s [website](https://www.metmuseum.org/).