If this year’s Met Gala theme has suddenly inspired you to dig out your silk foulards and pay a visit to your local thrift store for a one-of-a-kind brooch, you’re not alone. “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” will pay homage to the sharp-suited and well-heeled designers and tastemakers who embody Black dandyism at its finest.
Contemporary dandies like Pharrell and A$AP Rocky (who both serve as co-chairs for this year’s gala) continue to draw on the same keen, sophisticated eye that guided dandies of the past, like André Leon Talley and Oscar Wilde. But there are plenty of women who also embody the dandy spirit. Grace Wales Bonner, Janelle Monáe, Diane Keaton, and Tilda Swinton are just some of the women who have shown us the power of donning a tailored two-piece suit and a fabulous hat, while proving more, really is more by tastefully mashing together contrasting print and decadent adornment, from cowry-shelled trimmed velvet to sprawling cobalt feathers. The beauty behind the looks is no different, from slick-back hair and glossy skin to naked manicures and an intoxicating musk perfume.
Looking to bring out your inner dandy? Below, we share dandy styling tips from fashionable leading ladies.
A Statement Two-Piece
Grace Wales Bonner
A statement two-piece suit is a must-have to truly emulate the dandy look. You can take notes from British designer Grace Wales Bonner and sport a matching set or mix and match complementary pieces. The key is to lean into luxurious textures and signature detailing for a look that goes beyond the standard formal attire. And if you prefer to let your wardrobe do the talking, keep your beauty look more minimal with a slick-back updo, bare skin, and a well-hydrated lip.
Maximum Print
Diane Keaton
If you married dandyism with effortless beauty, you would probably get one of Diane Keaton’s signature polished looks: A bold, dotted tie beautifully clashed with a striped button-down, layered under a tailored two-piece white suit. The actress has been championing dandyism for years, which can be traced back to her role in Woody Allen’s Annie Hall, with her natural wavy hair and no-makeup makeup beauty. Add a few spritzes of a barely-there musk fragrance, like The Maker’s Naked eau de parfum, to complete your polished aesthetic.
Bold Color
Janelle Monáe
The Dandy doesn’t always play it safe when it comes to their fashion and beauty choices. Bold looks, like singer-songwriter Janelle Monaé’s cherry-red two-piece suit, vibrant red lip, and sharp cat-eye, make it easy to embody self-expression and individuality.
A Tux With A Twist
While a simple tux might satisfy most, the dandy will prefer one with a little flair. Look for impeccable tailoring, and unique details like an asymmetrical closure, then finish off with a tie. Plus, we suggest opting for a powerful side part and a low ponytail to channel no-frills sophistication, topping off with a high-shine lip to match.
Sumptuous Texture
Tilda Swinton
The ever-dandy Tilda Swinton knows how to make even a simple black suit look extraordinary. You can take a note from the actor with a top made from a shocking splash of cobalt feathers or don a silky button-up layered under a wrap-style blazer. Finish the look with a staggering statement shoe, clean, lacquered nails, and a hint of hair oil for understated elegance that makes a serious impact.
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