THE DANDY ROYALE
PHOTOGRAPHER LILY SISSON, CREATIVE DIRECTOR CYRENE RENEE
Black Dandyism, a term that has been around for centuries, but in recent months, has been given a more mainstream rebirth. With the 2025 Met Gala “Superfine, Tailoring Black Style,” taking center stage on a much-needed topic. Black fashion has been given its flowers. This was the first time the Met Gala dedicated the event to Black designers, Black stylists and Black creatives. Celebrities Zandaya, Janelle Monae, Diana Ross, Angela Bassett, Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, Alton Mason and many others graced the blue speckled carpet in their finest tailored ensembles. Cloaked in exceptional fabrics. Adorned with creative details of pearls, metallics, clocks and feathers. Their hats cocked to the side embracing the finest of attitudes. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is the latest to capture the historic account of culture and pristine handsome beauty. For those of us who know, The Gala may have been for one night, but Dandyism is a mindset. It is a tribute to ancestral tenacity and class. It is more than a suit. It is who we are as people.
“I laid out above eight pounds of my money for a suit of superfine clothes to dance with at my freedom.”
OLUADAH EQUANO, 1789
DANDYISM DEFINED
According to the Oxford University Press the term Dandy is defined as “1. A person unduly devoted to style, neatness and fashion in dress and appearance. 2. An excellent thing of its kind.” The Met states, “A Dandy is defined as someone who “studies above everything else to dress elegantly and fashionably.” In a nutshell, Dandyism is dope! It is art. It is pristine and captivating. It can be as simple or elaborate as the person would like it to be. To be a Dandy is to be bold, and confident. Always confident. The rule of Dandyism is to be uniquely you. It is far less about the price tag of the garment and more about how it is presented. Regardless of if the piece is couture, thrifted or trending, the individual breathes life and dignified character of boundless greatness.
“Dandy to me means being unabashedly yourself. A person of substance and standards who takes risks and shrugs off naysayers. A descriptive term for some who shakes and moves by their own rules, with immaculate tailoring to boot!”
RAMON LUIS (DANDY ROYALE GUEST)
HISTORY AT ITS FINEST
Since the 18th century, Black people have embraced our beauty, accentuated our personal archetype, conquered devious stereotypes, and persevered while looking good through it all. Beyond mere appearances, we have created the societal norms and status quo of fashion with talent, innovation and determination as well as through music, theater, television, film, poetry and in all levels of visual artistry. Either by freedmen or enslaved ancestors working as tradesmen, in indentured servitude or held captive in bondage in the 18th and 19th centuries, the 1920’s flappers and dapper gentlemen of the roaring 20s during the Harlem Renaissance, rock and roll and the civil rights movement in the 1950s and 1960s, disco in the 1970s, street style and hip-hop in the 1980s to present day, and the blues since the beginning of time, we remain a classic.
Throughout history and modern day, Black people have shown unique growth despite the ongoing wrongdoings against the community. Through art and specifically through fashion, we have been able to dispel the myths used to attempt to stunt our progression. The Dandy is a direct result of such a dilemma. The art of dressing impeccably allows for a different tale beyond comparison to a primate. As the elders may say “there must be a fly in the buttermilk,” or in today’s terms “the math isn’t mathing.”
“I know society can learn from the history of the Dandy and Black culture. Black people will always be resourceful and rooted in self-love which is a shared experience through expression.”
ELISHA GLASS (DANDY ROYALE GUEST)
SUPERFINE
“The Costume Institute’s Spring 2025 exhibition presents a cultural and historical examination of Black style over three hundred years through the concept of dandyism. In the 18th-century Atlantic world, a new culture of consumption, fueled by the slave trade, colonialism, and imperialism, enabled access to clothing and goods that indicated wealth, distinction, and taste. Black dandyism sprung from the intersection of African and European style traditions.”
THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART, 2025, SUPERFINE: TAILORING BLACK STYLE
PHOTOGRAPHER LILY SISSON, CREATIVE DIRECTOR CYRENE RENEE
The exhibition is free with museum entry. We traveled to the rear of the museum. Coasting through with one space in mind. While other showcases are bright and airy, the exhibition itself is dim. The lighting sets the mood for a theatrical and smokey journey. The strategically placed lighting illuminates each figure allowing for silence and in some cases an uproar. It is grouped into 12 sections to include cool, jook, presence, disguise, distinction, champion, beauty, respectability, freedom, cosmopolitanism, ownership, and heritage. With these sub sections, museum goers are introduced to different styling of Dandyism and its progress. Shifting the climate of each station with each outfit at a time. From track pants, silk lined blazers, ruffled shirts, kaftans, sneakers to shined hard sole shoes, all are on display for the world to see.
Coupled together in a common yet grandiose space, attendees can connect with the displayed garments, fabrics, encased accessories, photos and videos of Dandies past and present. Placing names and dates pinpointing the who and the where brings a sense of humanity and relatability to the exposition. It goes far beyond mannequins draped in fine threads. The rooms are filled with carefully chosen artifacts of distinct taste. A living art gallery of various time periods of fashion seamlessly held together by one common theme. Admiration for style. It is a sight to behold.
“My style icon is Rihanna, not just because she is RIHANNA, but her style is more than just her clothes, it’s her attitude, her confidence, and her vibe. While some may not agree with her outfit choices, her style is unapologetic and authentic. She doesn’t care what others think and she walks with an air of confidence and poise, turning heads wherever she goes. We’ve seen her do edgy, glam, sporty, and chic. She is so multifaceted. She’s really inspiring, and I try to add that bad gyal energy in every outfit I create.”
AMANDA UDAKA (DANDY ROYALE GUEST)
THE ROYALE
This all leads me to The Dandy Royale. I came up with the idea when I heard about the showcase. I knew I wanted to see it. I knew I had to see it, but I didn’t want to attend in common wares. I wanted to show up as my own version of Dandy. I had two months to plan and prepare. It needed to be done well. I wanted to create something memorable and tangible. This needed to be documented.
The invitations doubled as a custom power point website with detailed information for all attendees. It was a must for the execution to be as close to perfect as possible. Thankfully, I have some marvelous friends who all accepted the invitation and the challenge to show up and show out graciously and unapologetically. Beyond just seeing the exhibition, I curated an editorial photo shoot held in Central Park. Steps away from the historical Seneca Village community, which is located on the west side. It was only right since we were already adorned in our Dandy best, and near where original Black settlers lived before the park was established from the 1820s to the 1850s. They were ultimately forcibly removed and displaced by eminent domain in mid-1850, due to the city’s aspirations to expand the plans during the creation of the park.
“My personal style would be described as streetstyle chic. I like simplicity and comfort with a little something extra to elevate my looks. For instance, a matching set is simple, but your jewelry, shades, handbag, other accessories, or even hairstyle can turn something simple into something dynamic.”
MARCUS EARLY (DANDY ROYALE GUEST)
From there, we attended my birthday dinner at the Café d’Alsace. The décor of the restaurant fit the theme of our fashions just right. From the checkered tiled floors to the printed wallpaper and illustrious bar. We sat in the private dining space in the rear of the restaurant. The tablescape was just as important as the trip to the museum. Black and white with hints of plum for a splash of color not to clash with the pine green chairs. Custom favors of Himalayan rose bath salts and selenite crystals were given to all guests. Personalized menus and thank you postcards, along with the official Superfine postcards from The Met gift shop were at each setting. White chargers and black table runners placed vertically to create a bold stripe along the dinner table. Fresh purple flowers in vintage glass bud vases nestled between the stark black and white. The main centerpiece, a large white two-tiered, naked cake with white edible pearls, silver candles and a black and white Polaroid style photo of myself. The flavors were bold, and fun based off pies, key lime and peach cobbler. White linen napkins with lucite and feather place cards for assigned seating. Black and white spiraled candles with vintage metallic holders used to continue the vision. Decorated bottles of wine and apple cider with white pearls and etched flowers were placed on either side. Small cream velvet pockets of tic tac toe game filled with pearled bows and circles for a guest activity. The Dandy theme further played out on the dinner table with framed accessories featuring a pearl necklace, a mini polka dot bow tie, silver tie clips, silver applique, and a pewter pocket watch. Simple touches to remind us of what makes a lady a lady, and a gentleman a gentleman and everyone in between. It was a brilliant extension of the museum. In a nutshell, it was Dandy.
This event was to ultimately celebrate my birthday with my loves, but it was also a beautiful moment to celebrate Black excellence with the very people who go above and beyond in their own fields of expertise and talents. Individuals who I admire and the blessing to call family and friends. We uplift and support each other in real time and for all the right reasons. It wasn’t just about me; it was about us. It was about the resilience and the magic that makes society what it is today, by honoring those who have come before us.
“I not only had a great time at Cyrene’s Dandy Royale, I received a hands-on masterclass in Dandyism itself. Watching Cyrene, her friends, and contemporaries bring this art form to life was truly remarkable. As someone outside of the model world, I was honored to witness such an artful celebration of life, style, and fashion history. I am humbled to be a part of it.”
ANDREW MARSH (DANDY ROYALE GUEST)
Ancestors are not “was,” but “are.” If we speak their names, tell their stories, read their books, watch their movies, and listen to their music, they are very much relevant and present even beyond their transition. I made the day personal and wore an icon photo pendant of my grandmother. I wanted her to be present and honored. On any given day you will find me with an icon brooch of Dorothy Dandridge, who is my style icon or Billie Holiday, Aretha Franklin, Irene Cara or Maya Angelou. Those who have come before me and paved the way for me to be who and what I am. I would describe my personal style as chic, sexy, classic, classy and even when casual, a touch of vintage adornment. Fashion is one thing and style is another. It is my personality draped over my being. It is the embodiment of my spirit. How I look and how I feel shown in a visual representation whether caught in a glance, a glare or desired longing. It is me. Dare I say, I too, am a Dandy.
BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS
The 2025 Met Gala Theme and exhibition are inspired by Monica L. Miller’s “Slave to Fashion” and Zora Neal Hurston’s penned essay “Characteristics of Negro Expression.” If you are interested in learning more about Dandyism, check out these books recommended by Carl Ayers. I own a few myself. They are a wonderful addition to my personal library.
“Being rebellious and Black, a nonconformist, being cool and hip and angry and sophisticated and ultra clean, whatever else you want to call it. I was all those things and more.”
MILES DAVIS (“MILES: THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY,” 1989)
1. “Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity,” by Monica L. Miller.
2. “The world of James Van DerZee: A visual record of Black Americans” by James Van DerZee.
3. “The Tanning of America: How Hip-Hop Created That Rewrote the Rules of the New Economy,” by Steve Stoute.
4. “Made in Harlem,” by Dapper Dan
5. “Black Arsenal: Club, Culture, Identity,” by Clive Nwonka.
6. “Posing Beauty,” by Deboral Willis.
7. “Men of Color: Fashion, History and Fundamentals,” by Lloyd Boston.
8. “The Birth of Cool: Style Narratives of the African Diaspora,” By Carol Tulloch.
9. “From the Plantation to Ghetto,” by August Meier and Elliott M. Rudwick.
10. “Free Stylin’: How Hip-Hop Changed the Fashion Industry,” by Elena Romero.
11. “Black in Fashion: 100 Years of Style, Influence, and Culture,” by WWD Archives Editor Tonya Blazio-Licorish and WWD Executive Editor Tara Donaldson.
12. “Afrocentric Style: A Celebration of Blackness and Identity in Pop Culture,” by Shirley Neal.
13. “Chiffon Trenches,” by Andre Leon Talley
14. “Vintage Black Glamour” and “Vintage Black Glamour: Gentleman’s Quarters,” by Nichelle Gainer
15. “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” Monica Miller with Andrew Bolton, William DeGregorio and Amanda Garfinkel.
PHOTOGRAPHER ELISHA GLASS, CREATIVE DIRECTOR CYRENE RENEE
LOCATIONS
THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART – 1000 5TH AVE, NEW YORK NY 10028
CENTRAL PARK – Central Park NEW YORK, NY 100024
CAFE D’ALSACE RESTAURANT – 1703 2ND AVE NEW YORK, NY 10128
QUOTES
AMANDA UDUKA * ANDREW MARSH * ELISHA GLASS * FREDERICK DOUGLAS * MARCUS EARLY * MILES DAVIS * OLUADAH EQUANO * RAMON LUIS
BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS
CARL AYERS
A SPECIAL THANKS TO ALL WHO ATTENDED
ALYSSA SENEH * AMANDA UDUKA * ANDREW MARSH * BRANDON JERROD * ELISHA GLASS * MARCUS EARLY * MONIQUA FLADGER * MORGAN LEWIS * RAMON LUIS * TAYLOR WILLIAMS * TRUDY GIO
CREDITS
PHOTOGRAPHER: TRUDY GIO
CREATIVE DIRECTOR & WRITER: CYRENE RENEE
ILLUSTRATOR: ALYSSA SENEH
ASSISTANT: MORGAN LEWIS
RESOURCES
* MONICA L. MILLER WITH ANDREW BOLTON, WILLIAM DEGREGORIO AND AMANDA GARFINKEL, 2025, “SUPERFINE: TAILORING BLACK STYLE.”
* OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS DICTIONARY.
* SHANTRLLE P. LEWIS, 2017, “THE DANDY LION: THE BLACK DANDY AND STREET STYLE.”
* THE CENTRAL PARK CONSERVANCY, 2018 JAN 18, BEFORE CENTRAL PARK: THE STORY OF SENECA VILLIAGE, HTTPS://WWW.CENTRALPARKNYC.ORG/ARTICLES/SENECA-VILLAGE
* THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART, 2025, Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, HTTPS://WWW.METMUSEUM.ORG/EXHIBITIONS/SUPERFINE-TAILORING-BLACK-STYLE
“True enough, we think a man is wanting in the upper story, who invites attention to his fine clothes; but a man is wanting, both in the upper and lower story, when he pays no attention to his dress. The times are hard – yes, the times are hard, very hard with us; money is scarce, and the demands upon us are usually pressing; but the respectability and dignity of colored Americans must be upheld.”
FREDERICK DOUGLAS (“THERE IS SOMETHING IN DRESS,” FREDERICK DOUGLASS’ PAPER, MAY 25, 1855)
PHOTOGRAPHER ELISHER GLASS, CREATIVE DIRECTOR CYRENE RENEE
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