Charlie Casely-Hayford, a renowned menswear designer, will be featured in the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s 2025 gala theme, Superfine: Tailoring Black Style. This exhibit celebrates Black self-expression through fashion, with Casely-Hayford’s work highlighted for its blend of tradition, innovation, and empowerment.
In a recent interview with Blavity, Casely-Hayford discussed the influence of Black dandyism on both culture and fashion, noting that while the topic has been explored in a few London exhibitions, the Met Gala offers a major platform to bring it to a broader audience. He anticipates a resurgence of traditional tailoring, particularly with the rejection of minimalism, as dandyism emphasizes outward-facing opulence and detailing.
Casely-Hayford also shared his thoughts on the evolving landscape of men’s fashion, particularly the growing acceptance of sexiness in clothing. He noted that many men still feel uneasy discussing “sexiness” in fashion, but this shift represents a greater focus on self-expression and how clothing makes people feel.
In addition to his work with Superfine, Casely-Hayford recently collaborated with Aberfeldy Scotch Whisky on a limited-edition Scotch Sipping Jacket, which combines both brands’ commitment to legacy and craftsmanship. As the Met Gala approaches, his contributions to Superfine: Tailoring Black Style highlight the importance of Black dandyism’s impact on the fashion world.
