News Summary
Charlotte hosted a remarkable fashion event, ‘Superfine at Gantt: Exploring Black Dandyism’, serving as a prelude to the Met Gala’s upcoming theme. The showcase featured talented Black designers, a vibrant runway, and a rooftop party, highlighting the significance of Black dandyism in fashion. Curated by fashion marketing expert Perrine DeShield, the event pays homage to the influential André Leon Talley, while promoting future exhibitions focused on Black fashion creativity.
Charlotte celebrated a unique fashion event titled “Superfine at Gantt: Exploring Black Dandyism” on Friday, May 2, 2025. This local gathering served as a precursor to the Met Gala’s imminent 2025 theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” which is scheduled for May 5, 2025. The event highlighted the impressive talent of Black designers based in Charlotte, featuring a vibrant runway show and an elegant rooftop party.
Perrine “Professor P” DeShield, a fashion marketing professor at the Savannah College of Art & Design, curated the evening’s showcase in partnership with the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts & Culture. Living in Charlotte, DeShield drew inspiration from the Met Gala’s focus on Black style and dandyism, echoing its themes of celebration and recognition.
The late André Leon Talley, an influential fashion icon from North Carolina, served as a significant source of inspiration for this event. DeShield emphasized that the event stands as “a love letter to André Leon Talley,” recognizing his substantial contributions to the fashion world.
Black dandyism was the central theme of the event, defined as a style of dress that asserts identity, challenges social norms, and reclaims dignity within the Black community. Attendees were encouraged to dress in a manner inspired by this cultural style, which allowed participants to express their individuality while adhering to a sophisticated aesthetic.
The evening’s activities included photographic activations, accessible experiences for the general public, and a VIP session. Guests in the VIP area received exclusive rooftop access, provided networking opportunities, complimentary drinks, and catered dining options. This combination allowed for both a celebratory and engaging atmosphere for all involved.
Looking ahead, DeShield indicated intentions for further fashion-forward exhibitions and events that aim to continue spotlighting the contributions of Black fashion creators. Such efforts strive to educate the community on the rich history and influence of Black dandyism in the fashion industry.
The upcoming Met Gala will also feature an exhibit that traces the history of Black style from the 18th century to the present, placing dandyism at the forefront. The concept of dandyism, which has evolved from its aristocratic roots, now symbolizes liberation and resistance expressed through fashion.
The Harlem Renaissance played a crucial role in the evolution of Black dandyism, during which key figures, such as W.E.B. Du Bois, utilized fashion as a tool to combat stereotypes and convey messages of dignity. Dandyism encompasses both male and female forms of expression, particularly noted for women who began to challenge fashion conventions following World War I.
Contemporary fashion influencers, including artists like Janelle Monáe, continue to elevate Black dandyism at major style events, such as the Met Gala, underscoring the ongoing relevance and impact of this cultural phenomenon. The “Superfine at Gantt” event served as an important waypoint in this journey, celebrating the artistry and significance of Black dandyism, while preparing for broader recognition in upcoming major fashion occasions.
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Additional Resources
- Charlotte Observer: Superfine at Gantt
- Wikipedia: Dandyism
- WCCB Charlotte: Black Dandyism at Met Gala
- Google Search: Black Dandyism
- AP News: What is Dandyism
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fashion
