For fashion lovers, the Met Gala is one of the most highly-anticipated events of the season. Besides raising money for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute, it’s also one of the hottest red carpets around, with stars like Rihanna, Zendaya and Cardi B showing off looks that almost always break the internet.
Each year, the gala’s dress code is inspired by the Costume Institute’s exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, allowing guests to interpret the exhibit’s theme in their own way. This year’s exhibit, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” is inspired by Monica L. Miller’s book, “Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity,” and will explore the best of Black men’s style from the 18th century to today.
This week, the Metropolitan Museum of Art announced the dress code for this year’s gala, “Tailored for You,” a nod to the exhibit’s focus on suiting and menswear along with a star-studded Met Gala host committee, which includes LeBron James, Usher, Pharrell Williams and Janelle Monáe.
“The theme this year is not only timely but also speaks to our rich culture that should always be widely celebrated,” Usher said in a statement about the event.
Because May 5 is way too long to wait for this celebration of Black style excellence, we’re looking back at some of the host committee members suited and booted in their best-tailored looks. Enjoy!