Celebration of BLACK EXCELLENCE and the HISTORY OF THE DANDY in AMERICA
John Baptiste, Always a Dandy, a Snappy Dresser and bringing it to every project.
The historical roots of the “Black Dandy” has a history during the ‘Harlem Renaissance’ beginning in the 1920s in New York City and continuing through to the end of the depression. As a celebration of Black Identity and culture it had a distinctive American flavor and also was the fertile ground for a number of artists that worked in literature, music, art, illustration, theater and performing artists. Also, due to the extraordinary wave of migration from the South to the Northern states, that is well documented, the area of HARLEM in New York was a major destination point. (History.com) The birth of the Cotton Club and the artists that performed there were a unique moment in entertainment history. A historical through-line also bridges the gap between the international migration to Paris by black artists in the 1920s that made the city a unique melting pot of jazz, fashion, style and literary genius.
The contributions by black artists, writers, fashion designers, and performers are highlighted and celebrated in this year’s MET GALA.
The varied interpretation of made to measure clothes with an emphasis on men’s tailoring makes the DANDY theme ripe for experimentation.
The Branding Magic of the Red carpet at the Met
The room for interpretation went from the tailored suit to the grand cape to the sexy dress that looked like a suit. Even the idea of a woman’s gown was re-interpreted many ways. There was no right way to do things, and most of the celebrities got the brief and ran with it. Some of the ladies were simply testing out their OSCAR carpet looks while others brought to the carpet a solid interpretation of the theme. Actors and actresses often take this opportunity to “expand” their personal brands and I think Anna Wintour encourages her guests to take a few fashion chances. Why Not? VOGUE has become the magazine that allows all the creative communities to take the opportunity to celebrate. The Metropolitan Museum has announced that the exhibit will extend through to October 2025 so that everyone has an opportunity to see it. To Join the METROPOLITAN MUSEUM AS A SINGLE OR FAMILY MEMBERSHIP and continue to support our museums that celebrate out culture in every community. Join Now!
Gallery of Looks on the Carpet
Many Looks and Interpretations were all on brand for these celebrity personalities.
