Fashion Decisions Ahead of the Met Gala

With only nine hours remaining before the prestigious Met Gala, Usher navigated through a plethora of style choices. Key questions loomed, such as whether to opt for a white faux fur jacket or a classic boucle adorned with sequins. Complementary watch selections were also in consideration, alongside queries about the gold content of his buttons—14 or 24-karat?

In a lively moment, Usher humorously inquired if the diamonds gracing him were lab-grown—indeed, they were. His lightheartedness extended to mimicking a conductor’s baton, showcasing his multifaceted personality ahead of the event.

Signature Ensemble and Tailoring Choices

Usher’s ensemble featured a custom Stetson bowler and classic Manolo Blahnik shoes, the selection of which was determined with input from those present. A striking decision was made to forego a flamboyant feather accessory in favor of a refined look. The cornerstone of his outfit was a tailor-made white suit designed by Brandon Murphy, crafted with sophistication in mind.

Thematic Context and Inspirations

Describing himself as a storyteller, Usher emphasized that his role was not only artistic but also one of cultural representation during the event. The 2023 Gala theme “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” pays homage to Black dandyism, a narrative Usher aimed to embody through his sartorial choices. His inspirations included legendary figures like Sidney Poitier and Miles Davis, prompting him to ponder, “Do I want to be Duke Ellington?”

Team Collaboration and Historical Tribute

Usher expressed gratitude for his team’s commitment, highlighting the importance of ensuring representation for everyone involved, particularly people of color. The design process was extensive, featuring multiple sketches and discussions to refine the final look. According to Brandon Murphy, an essential aspect of the design was acknowledging Usher’s influential fashion legacy while incorporating contemporary design techniques.

Functionality Meets Fashion

Usher’s attire was engineered to meet performance demands, merging aesthetics with practicality. The collaboration with Brandon Murphy was not merely about style; it involved considerations for mobility, ensuring Usher’s outfit accommodated mic packs and the dynamic movements intrinsic to his performances. “Yashua, he and I worked on my last tour together, so [he has] an understanding of how the clothing has to move,” Usher remarked, emphasizing the synergy between performance requirements and fashion.