This year's Met Gala, themed "Tailored for You," will shine a light on the evolution of Black menswear throughout history. The related exhibition, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," will delve into Black dandyism and the role of fashion in shaping identity.
Having Adichie on this esteemed committee is a notable moment at the crossroads of fashion and literature. As an acclaimed author and a strong advocate for cultural representation, she has always used her storytelling to challenge societal norms. Her books, like "Americanah" and "We Should All Be Feminists," have significantly influenced modern conversations about race, gender, and identity, which resonate with the themes of this year's Met Gala exhibition.
Adichie’s influence goes beyond literature; she’s also a prominent figure in the global fashion scene, supporting African designers through her Wear Nigerian initiative, which promotes local craftsmanship and sustainability. In 2023, she made waves in the luxury fashion world by starring in the campaign for Dior’s iconic Lady 95.22 bag, becoming one of the few literary figures to collaborate with the renowned French brand. Her dedication to African fashion as a means of self-expression and cultural preservation makes her a perfect fit for a committee that honors the historical and contemporary significance of Black style.
Fashion as a Narrative
The MET Costume Institute's exhibition, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," will focus on Black dandyism—an aesthetic and cultural movement that has historically pushed back against stereotypes and redefined what elegance means. The exhibit will trace the evolution of Black menswear from the 18th century to today, showcasing influential figures like Julius Soubise, one of the first Black dandies who used fashion to navigate and challenge societal expectations.
Adichie’s work, similar to Black dandyism, pushes back against stereotypes and elevates voices that often go unheard. As a cultural historian, her role in the Met Gala showcases how fashion can tell stories, reclaim identities, and reflect on history.
The new committee features a diverse lineup of stars from different areas, including actors Ayo Edebiri, Audra McDonald, and Jeremy Pope; athletes Simone Biles and Jonathan Owens, Angel Reese, and Sha’Carri Richardson; musicians like Doechii, Usher, Tyla, Janelle Monáe, and André 3000; artists Jordan Casteel, Rashid Johnson, and Kara Walker; playwrights Jeremy O. Harris and Branden Jacobs-Jenkins; and fashion icons Grace Wales Bonner, Edward Enninful, Dapper Dan, and Olivier Rousteing.
A Milestone for African Representation
Adichie’s role on the 2025 Met Gala Host Committee marks a significant step towards acknowledging African voices in the global cultural conversation. As the sole writer on this year’s committee, she connects literature and fashion, emphasizing that storytelling goes beyond just words—it’s also intricately tied to our history.
As the Met Gala takes place on May 5, with the exhibition opening on May 10, Adichie’s involvement will not only honor Black fashion but also stress the significance of African representation in worldwide arenas. Her impact continues to redefine how culture is perceived, recorded, and celebrated.