SE Valley Times

The influence of Black culture on fashion is a subject that spans centuries, tracing back to African prints and styles and extending through various American political climates. This enduring impact is evident in the works of iconic figures like Dapper Dan and Zendaya.

Mitchell Jackson, a professor at Arizona State University’s Department of English, has long been attuned to trends. Reflecting on his early fascination with fashion, he said, “For me to look at the cowboy hat and boots and say that I like it and that I want to recreate that image, someone had to make that first.” Jackson emphasized how cultural, social, political, and financial factors shape popular styles.

Jackson's career highlights include receiving the National Magazine Award and Pulitzer Prize in Feature Writing for his article on Ahmaud Arbery's killing. His NBA fashion coffee table book was named Booktique’s 2024 best lifestyle book. He anticipates this year's Met Gala theme, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," which will showcase the significance of Black fashion.

In exploring historical influences on fashion, Jackson noted the 1940s as a pivotal period. “I was interested in how the war was shaping what people wore,” he remarked. Restrictions during wartime led to creative adaptations within fashion constraints.

Jackson highlighted how societal pressures influenced Black Americans' attire before the Civil Rights Movement. “To achieve [basic human rights], they have to lobby white people in power,” he explained. The need for conformity often dictated their style choices.

The upcoming Met Gala will feature garments from Monica L. Miller’s book "Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity." Co-hosts include Pharrell Williams, A$AP Rocky, Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, with honorary chair LeBron James.

Black dandyism emerged during the 18th century as a form of identity expression amid the Atlantic slave trade. It allowed Black men and women to challenge barriers through signature styles associated with dandyism.

The Met Gala's focus on menswear marks its first since 2003's "Bravehearts: Men in Skirts." Jackson hopes attendees will explore the origins of these designs: “Whether that look is from 18th-century France or from 16th-century Ghana... understand the background.”

Scheduled for May 5, this year's event features an official dress code titled “Tailored for You,” emphasizing menswear themes with notable host committee members such as Simone Biles, Usher, and Sha’Carri Richardson.