Last week, Nicholas Daley made his debut at the Met Gala, teaming up with his close friend and collaborator Leon Bridges. This year marks Bridges’ fifth appearance at the event, while it is Daley’s first, with Bridges declaring this look as his favorite of all time. The two connected professionally last year when Leon donned Nicholas Daley designs for his CLASH cover shoot, a significant collaboration that showcased their shared creative vision.
After spending a decade in the fashion industry with recognitions such as being an LVMH Prize Finalist, winning the British Fashion Council/GQ Design Fashion Fund, and being a finalist for the British Fashion Council/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund, 2025 is shaping up to be the most significant year for the London-based designer. This will be his first time having his work displayed in the Costume Institute exhibition at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, and this week he will receive the prestigious Visionary Award from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, joining an esteemed list of previous honorees including Kerby Jean-Raymond, Hamish Bowles, Gabriela Hearst, and Francesco Risso, among others.
Daley grew up in Leicestershire to Scottish and Jamaican parents and honed his skills at Central Saint Martins, graduating in 2013. He then worked at Savile Row before launching his own label for the 2015 spring season. Known for his intricate storytelling and diasporic influences that blend music, fashion, and culture in Britain, Daley’s interpretation of Black Dandyism is considered one of the most significant of the evening.
Embodying the theme ‘Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,’ Daley’s look represents a fresh approach for him, featuring flared trousers for the first time while still retaining the rich, warm color palette he is known for. Each piece reflects the designer’s heritage, from the Yorkshire wool to a handmade tie crafted by his mother. He attributes the influence of the Windrush Generation in reshaping British fashion for the better. For Daley, Black Dandyism is a political statement of “craftsmanship, rebellion, and culture,” which he feels both he and Leon express in their respective works.
Working alongside Leon’s stylist Gabriela, Nicholas presents a unified vision of Black dandyism, intertwining Leon’s bold retro style with personal vintage inspirations, evoking icons like James Baldwin, Prince, and memories of his father's style from the 70s. The ensemble includes four primary pieces: a wool overcoat (which did not make it to the red carpet), flared trousers, a wool waistcoat, and a wide-lapelled Western shirt, nodding to Leon’s Texas heritage. The standout detail is a hand-knitted cravat tie made by Nicholas’ mother and her knitting circle for the occasion, completing a full circle as she also created pieces for his graduate collection “Culture Clash” in 2013.
Reflecting on the rebellious essence of the look and the importance of collaborating with Nicholas for the prestigious event, Leon Bridges stated: “Today is a significant milestone in my journey. My musical path has always been deeply connected to my aesthetic expression. There were moments I doubted my style when it didn’t seem to resonate widely, but it always kept me rooted. I drew inspiration from those before me, the trailblazers whose presence and style paved the way for mine.
For the 2025 Met Gala, I am honored to wear the incredible Nicholas Daley. I can’t think of a more suitable collaborator to represent this year’s theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” This theme celebrates the legacy of Black dandyism, a legacy embodied within me. It transcends fashion; it is a declaration of identity, history, and pride.
For over a decade, this spirit has influenced not just my artistry but also how I navigate the world. Tonight, I walk in that tradition with gratitude.”
We spoke with Nicholas to delve into the creation and inspiration behind the look, the political and rebellious implications of Black dandyism, the significance of this Met Gala, and the contributions of the Black diaspora to contemporary British fashion.
What does Black dandyism signify to you?
For me, Black dandyism embodies a blend of craftsmanship, rebellion, and culture. These elements have been vital across various generations in the UK, the US, and within the African diaspora. Fashion, style, and clothing have served as vehicles to advance culture, shape craftsmanship, and challenge oppression.
Who are some prominent figures that come to mind when considering the legacy of Black dandyism?
When I think of dandyism, figures like Miles Davis in his Ivy League outfit during the 50s, Jimi Hendrix at Woodstock in the 70s, and in the 2000s, André 3000 stand out, along with many outstanding musicians and artists who forged their own paths with clothing labels and fashion houses, such as Pharrell Williams. Black dandyism has evolved
Luvcat has released a provocative video for her new single 'Lipstick'. Currently available, the single is a part of her captivating ascent, accompanied by a wave of dark-pop.
The showcase for this year is set to occur on Friday afternoon at Horatio's.
This is our third preview of her upcoming debut, 'My First Album'.
The single, along with their upcoming album that has yet to be announced, was produced by Al Doyle of LCD Soundsystem.
Led Zeppelin's rock sound may appear straightforward at first, yet it is filled with remarkable intricacies. Consider 'Black Dog' - a passionate blues rock track that features a
The quartet from the Isle of Wight has launched this next chapter with a substantial new single, ‘Girls!’.
Last week, Nicholas Daley made his debut at the Met Gala, collaborating with his close friend Leon Bridges. This year is Bridges’ fifth appearance at the event.