“Dandy” Styling Tips – & here’s how to recreate it

If this year’s Met Gala theme has suddenly inspired you to dig out your silk foulards and pay a visit to your local thrift store for a one-of-a-kind brooch, you’re not alone. “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” will pay homage to the sharp-suited and well-heeled designers and tastemakers who embody Black dandyism at its finest. There are plenty of women who also embody the dandy spirit. Grace Wales Bonner, Janelle Monáe, Diane Keaton, and Tilda Swinton are just some of the women who have shown us the power of donning a tailored two-piece suit and a lovely hat while proving that more really is more by tastefully mashing together contrasting print and decadent adornment, from cowrie-shelled trimmed velvet to sprawling cobalt feathers. The beauty behind the looks is no different, with everything from slicked-back hair and glossy skin to naked manicures and an intoxicating musk perfume.

Looking to bring out your inner dandy? Keep Reading!!

(Pictures used in this post are for reference only, all copyrights belong to the respective owners of the images. Sources include but not limited to – google, IG, respective fashion magazines, fashion designers, editors, publishers, industry insiders, fashion models and fashion brands)

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MAXIMUM PRINT –

If you married dandyism with effortless beauty, you would probably get one of Diane Keaton’s signature polished looks: a bold dotted tie beautifully clashing with a striped button-down, layered under a tailored two-piece white suit. The actress has been championing dandyism for years, going back to her look in Woody Allen’s Annie Hall, with her natural wavy hair and no-makeup makeup beauty. Add a few spritzes of a barely their musk fragrance, like the Maker’s Naked eau de parfum, to complete your polished aesthetic.

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A TUX WITH A TWIST –

While a simple tux might satisfy most, the dandy will prefer one with a little flair. Look for impeccable tailoring and unique details like an asymmetrical closure, then finish off with a tie. Plus, I suggest opting for a powerful side part and a low ponytail to channel no-frills sophistication, topping it all off with a high-shine lip to match.

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STATEMENT TWO-PIECE –

A statement two-piece suit is a must-have to truly emulate the dandy look. You can take notes from British designer Grace Wales Bonner and sport a matching set or mix and match complementary pieces. The key is to lean into luxurious textures and signature detailing for a look that goes beyond the standard formal attire. And if you prefer to let your wardrobe do the talking, keep your beauty look more minimal with a slicked-back updo, bare skin, and a well-hydrated lip.

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BOLD COLOR –

The dandy doesn’t always play it safe when it comes to fashion and beauty choices. Bold looks, like singer-songwriter Janelle Monaé’s cherry-red two-piece suit, vibrant red lip, and sharp cat-eye, make it easy to embody self-expression and individuality.

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SUMPTUOUS TEXTURE –

The ever-dandy Tilda Swinton knows how to make even a simple black suit look extraordinary. You can take a note from the actor with a top made from a shocking splash of cobalt feathers or don a silky button-up layered under a wrap-style blazer. Finish the look with a staggering statement shoe, clean lacquered nails, and a hint of hair oil for understated elegance that makes a serious impact.

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And that’s the end:)