The Met Gala, fashion’s biggest night of the year, sees all the major fashion houses vying to dress global A-listers. This year’s theme was “Super Fine: Tailoring Black Style”, so we were particularly elated to spot the work of numerous African designers gracing the red carpet. Their creations on the red carpet speak not only to their talent but also to their influence. The dress code, “Tailored For You”, called for impeccably tailored suits or dresses, and many African designers rose to the occasion.

Here are the African designers we spotted:

Brian Tyree Henry in Orange Culture


Brian embodied the essence of Black dandyism in a maroon suit and brocade cape from Orange Culture, a Nigerian-owned fashion label.

Burna Boy, Ncuti Gatwa, Ayra Starr and Tems in Ozwald Boateng


British Ghanaian designer Ozwald Boateng, renowned for his impeccable suits, had a busy night. Burna Boy sported a reddish-brown suit and leather cape from the designer, Ayra Starr wore a black tuxedo dress with a deep V-neck and a high slit, while Ncuti Gatwa looked sharp in a purple patterned suit. Tems also wore a striking Ankara-print waistcoat that flowed into a fish-tail dress, all courtesy of Boateng.

Jonathan Owens in Deji and Kola

 

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Jonathan Owens looked sharp in an immaculately tailored white suit by Deji and Kola, a Nigerian fashion label celebrated for its menswear. The fringe detailing around the suit was a perfect touch, and the look was one of the best menswear pieces spotted.

Savannah James in Hanifa

 

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Savannah James wore a striped maroon corset jacket and skirt with a massive fish-tail from Hanifa, a Congolese-owned brand. This outfit easily ranks Savannah among the best-dressed of the evening. The impeccable tailoring and fit deserve high praise.

Diana Ross in Eleven Sixteen

 

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This legendary musician was the belle of the ball in a sequinned silver gown and a feathered hat. The look was completed with a long feathered cape that stole the show, a stunning creation from Eleven Sixteen, a fashion label by Nigerian fashion designer, Ugo Mozie.

Taraji P Henson in Monse Maison and Post Imperial

 

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Taraji wore a body suit and tail coat by Monse Maison and Post Imperial. Though it was a colloboration, Post Imperial is owned by a Nigerian, Niyi Okuboyejo.

At the Met Gala, it was glorious to see many African designers; their presence and impact were undeniable and proved that African designers are global. Much like Afrobeats, their looks on the red carpet were a powerful testament to the immense talent and style flourishing across the African continent.