The Met Gala of 2025 was a star-studded event celebrating the Costume Institute’s spring exhibition, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” inspired by Monica L. Miller’s book “Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity.” The dress code for the evening was “Tailored for You,” prompting attendees like Rihanna, Bad Bunny, Lorde, and Laura Harrier to put their own creative twists on suiting.
Renowned photographer and cofounder of the See in Black collective, Andre D. Wagner, was on hand to capture the magic of the night. Wagner’s work has been featured in publications such as The New Yorker, The New York Times, Essence, and Vogue. Known for his powerful images depicting Jamaican top models and the “And Still, I Vote” campaign against racist voter suppression, Wagner also explores subway scenes and Black communities in Bushwick, New York.
Wagner’s black and white photographs offer a unique perspective on one of the city’s most glamorous events. His artistry captures the essence of the Met Gala, showcasing the fashion, style, and energy of the night in a way that only a true New Yorker can.
The images from the event are not just snapshots of celebrities in designer clothes, but a visual narrative that tells the story of a vibrant and diverse city coming together to celebrate culture and creativity. Wagner’s lens captures the essence of the Met Gala, highlighting the beauty and uniqueness of Black style and identity in a way that is both powerful and captivating.
