On the evening of May 5, 2025, at New York’s prestigious Metropolitan Museum of Art, Colman Domingo captivated the world as he arrived at the Met Gala, not just as an honored attendee but as a co-chair. His presence was marked by a powerful embrace of Black excellence and heritage-inspired dandyism, brought to life through a striking ensemble crafted in close collaboration with his stylists. This year’s Met Gala theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” positioned Domingo at the center of a cultural celebration, reflecting deeply on the history and influence of Black style and creativity.
Colman Domingo’s role as co-chair marks a significant milestone in a remarkable year for the actor, whose recognition on the international stage continues to grow. The 55-year-old star, fresh from an acclaimed performance in “Sing Sing” and an Oscar nomination, was handpicked by Anna Wintour herself to help lead the annual fashion event. He shares this distinguished task with A$AP Rocky, Lewis Hamilton, Pharrell Williams, and honorary co-chair LeBron James, all of whom contribute to the Gala’s diverse and dynamic representation. The theme could hardly be more fitting for Domingo, widely celebrated for his bold and innovative red carpet choices over the previous year.
Domingo’s stylist team, Wayman Bannerman and Micah McDonald, revealed that the actor had known of his co-chair assignment for several months, but honored Anna Wintour’s request for secrecy.
He knew [he was a co-chair] for a while, and he couldn’t tell us because Anna had asked him not to say anything, and he listened,
Bannerman shared ahead of the event, adding that Domingo was bursting to share the news but waited until the designated time. Once the news was public in November, the team dove straight into planning a look that would honor both heritage and the spirit of Black excellence.
Colman had been pontificating on the theme for quite some time. And it’s funny how kismet all of our thought processes were individually and how we were able to bring it all together was really quite special,
explained Bannerman, referencing the energy and intent that shaped their creative process. The group agreed to build the foundation of the look around the rich history of the Moors and their enduring influence on the Harlem Renaissance, both iconic sources of Black culture and style.
The process of assembling Colman Domingo’s Met Gala look was deliberate and intricate. The stylists researched colors, shapes, silhouettes, and fabrics that could pay proper homage. Appliqués, brocade, and unique accessories became central elements of the creation, each chosen for their ties to Black dandyism—a refined, elegant form of expression that has impacted fashion for generations. Every detail was considered, from the cut of Domingo’s overcoat to the selection of statement jewelry.
Micah McDonald broke down the layers of Domingo’s ensemble, saying,
The ensemble is comprised of two layers: a brilliant brocade embellished collar with this overcoat layer, and then under that, a cape, which unveils a new look. The look under the cape is more of the homage to Harlem Renaissance, and the look with the cape on is the homage to the Moors.
Through this sartorial transformation, Domingo’s appearance wove together history, narrative, and style, embodying the complexity and elegance at the heart of Black dandyism.
Accessories played an equally significant role in the presentation. “We’re gonna play,” Bannerman said, noting the team’s commitment to experimentation with hats, sunglasses, brooches, jewelry, and particularly earrings, necklaces, and “special rings” adorned with diamonds. Every piece was selected not solely for aesthetic appeal, but for its ability to tell a broader cultural story.
As the day of the event neared, Bannerman and McDonald reflected on the emotional stakes of the project. McDonald recalled,
We were just all so overjoyed and excited about it. And then we found out what the theme was, and then we were even more enthused because it felt like perfect timing for this theme and for Colman to be a chair of the Met, to all just align together. And it was just a beautiful joy that we all kind of immersed in together with excitement.
This collective effort, fueled by enthusiasm and urgency, brought a sense of celebration and unity to the design process and reinforced the importance of platforming Black style at such a notable event.
Defining dandyism within the context of Colman Domingo’s look, McDonald explained,
For us, dandyism is just our culture, our heritage, Black excellence. It’s really peacocking, as our former generation would consider it. It’s really just putting forth your best foot, really being the epitome of style and confidence, and really making sure you exude that at all times.
This approach not only shaped the visual narrative of the Met Gala ensemble but also connected the moment to everyday experiences and traditions within the Black community.
Domingo’s stylists emphasized the need for authenticity and relaxation in his appearance, ensuring that he looked and felt at home.
We wanted to make sure that Colman felt like the Colman that we all know. And also feel like there was a relaxed feel to it there, this effortless feel to it that felt like home. Like, ‘This is where I should be as well,’
McDonald said. This commitment to ease and comfort was expressed through the garment’s tailoring and personal touches, reflecting both sophistication and approachable elegance.
The team’s collaborative process was dynamic and fluid, centered around a constantly evolving mood board.
We have so many ideas that our mood board changes probably weekly. But one through line that stayed consistent is that we and Colman wanted to pay homage and showcase the rich heritage and history of the Moors. So we started there, and we kind of continued to build around that with color ways, accessory, stories, silhouettes, shapes, appliques and brocade. And that’s what we really built the mood board around, and also incorporating the heritage of the Moors and how it translated into the Harlem Renaissance,
McDonald described.
Technology and digital platforms like Pinterest became essential tools in visualizing and coordinating the vision among team members. Bannerman noted,
He had been pontificating on the theme for quite some time. And it’s funny how kismet all of our thought processes were individually and how we were able to bring it all together, it was really quite special. So it was nice for him to be able to develop his ideas and us to develop ours. But I do have to say, of Pinterest, it really is just that visual representation of what we all were individually thinking.
This constant exchange of inspiration ensured that every facet of Domingo’s appearance was intentional and meaningful.
Detailing the impact of this creative process, McDonald pointed out how each team member brought a unique perspective.
We all have our own way of pulling things up and even what the image itself looked like. We could pull the same thing, but if it was even shot differently. Like we have some images that were from older times that were kind of resurfaced or retouched. Like, Wayman is always keen on getting the well-lit version of mine, and I’ll have like some grainy one where it’s shot from some corner. So, yes Pinterest also shows one’s personality and thinking behind what they post.
On the night of the Met Gala, Colman Domingo’s meticulously crafted look met with widespread anticipation and celebration. Observers saw not only artistry and style but also a bold commentary on heritage, identity, and self-expression. Each layer, accessory, and fabric choice referenced deeper stories—the legacies of the Moors, the vibrancy of Harlem’s cultural revolution, and the unbroken lineage of Black excellence that continues to shape society and fashion.
This moment was more than the culmination of months of planning and creativity; it was a cultural statement broadcast on one of fashion’s most influential stages. For young viewers and aspiring creators, Domingo’s appearance carried messages of pride, craftsmanship, and the power to shape the narrative. In showing how Black dandyism can command mainstream recognition while honoring the past, the look set a bold standard for future expressions of identity at the Met Gala and beyond.
The event’s broader significance lies in its potential to reshape conversations around fashion and representation. Through his central role, Colman Domingo showed that honoring heritage and creativity not only celebrates the present but provides new energy for continued dialogue and progress. As conversations continue around the role of Black excellence in shaping global culture, the story of his Met Gala 2025 look stands as a vivid and powerful example of how style, history, and confidence can come together to inspire change and ignite hope for the next generation.
