The Black Female Dandy

Has Black Female Dandyism become a thing of the past?

As fashion trends move towards provocative styles reminiscent of the topless 1960s and the logo-heavy 1990s, the meticulously groomed woman seems to have lost her place.

Dandyism originated in the 1700s with Beau Brummell and evolved over the years. Currently, Dandism is all about sartorial finesse. However, black female dandyism draws inspiration from the refined style of influential black men during the Edwardian era, characterized by perfect tailoring and fit, minus the use of frills, lace, or other embellishments.

Despite cultural changes, the black female dandy is now an invisible voice in mainstream fashion. It could be intentional, as dandyism is not a passing fashion trend; but a way of life for those who revel in details. Nevertheless, the question persists: where have all the Dandy Lions gone?

February Fashion Week |NYC

The conversation around New York Fashion Week has honed in on addressing the topics of diversity and representation, resulting in a season having some moments worth mentioning. For starters, a transgender woman of color, Pierre Davis, held a debut show for her brand No Sesso. Davis made history this fashion week as the first trans designer to ever show at NYFW.

But, depending on whom you ask, fashion week has turned into an outdated trade show for an industry that has evolved beyond its roots. Sadly, with influencer egoism and over-commercialized beauty on the rise, we've entered a generation where nobody is authentic or has an original idea.

Fashion has become increasingly common amongst the masses. From celebrities to fashion vultures who sell “collections” through print-and-go apparel businesses. The industry needs to reclaim its exclusivity before another new fast fashion juggernaut devastates the fashion economy.

For me, bottom(trickle)-up streetwear designers, art-fashion designers, slow fashion designers, responsible designers, and the sustainable fashion community are where I find my refuge. It's a safe haven for us who believe the fashion industry can change.