Fashion, Politics and Black Dandyism with Jonathan Michael Square

Step into the fascinating world where fashion meets politics as we welcome Jonathan Michael Square for an illuminating conversation on fashion, politics and Black dandyism. Our timely discussion arrives just before the 2025 Met Gala and the Costume Institute's exhibition, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style."Dr. Square is the Assistant Professor of Black Visual Culture at Parsons School of Design. He has a PhD in history from New York University, an MA from the University of Texas at Austin, and a BA from Cornell University. Dr. Square was a fellow in the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and he’s also a member of the advisory committee for the Costume Institute’s “Superfine” exhibition.Jonathan explores how politics is woven into the fabric of Black dandyism and its intertwined relationship with respectability. He offers insights from his current NYU course on Black dandyism and, as a member of the "Superfine" advisory committee, provides a sneak peek of the upcoming exhibition. Our conversation briefly shifts to examine dress codes in the corridors of power — from Capitol Hill (catch our fashion footnote in the episode) to the White House. Jonathan also shares strategies for scholars and students focused on the intersection of fashion, race, politics and culture — during a time when certain terms and academic fields face increasing scrutiny. Special guest, octogenarian Robert William Wiley, also joined us at the end to share how he and his uncles have embodied Black dandyism over the years.Connect with Dr. Jonathan Michael Square: Instagram and WebsiteConnect with Kenya: LinkedIn and InstagramFollow Suited with Kenya WileySubscribe to the Suited newsletter