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Hi John! Finally found some time in between final papers to report back on what was definitely one of the most exciting nights of my life: Being the least-famous person at the Met Gala alongside Dad Lander – while repping a Black Brooklyn designer in a custom suit inspired by a badass woman labor leader!
Image credit: Getty The Met Gala theme this year was “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” centered on Black dandyism and the history of Black tailoring and style as power. Dad got our tickets for free (the Comptroller is an ex-officio member of the board at the Met). From the beginning, my goal was to showcase the work and stories of Black NYC artists. I know what this event means in the world of fashion and art, and I didn’t want to waste that opportunity. I was really excited to be able to work with Parron Allen, a sustainable Black designer from Brooklyn who made my incredible look. I loved his playful, structural designs, and his use of entirely upcycled/deadstock materials. My look was inspired by Floria Pinkney, a Brooklyn-born garment worker and labor activist in New York City in the 1920s. She was the first Black woman to hold a position of power in the International Ladies Garment Workers Union (now part of the AFL-CIO).
Image credit: Getty I really connected with Parron’s framing of clothing as a conversation starter, as a story. He moved to NYC from Mississippi and found a love for garment creation through his grandmother. He views sustainability as a part of cultural heritage and takes immense pride in his work. You can feel the joy Parron takes in his craft in his designs, and I was thrilled when he agreed to work with me on this look. As the New York Post said, “The biggest fashion statement at Monday’s Met Gala wasn’t any of the flamboyant outfits worn by celebrities, but a smartly tailored black blazer sporting a giant union logo.” As Mayor, my dad will make sure culture is part of everyday life in New York City – ensuring fair pay for museum workers, supporting grassroots arts organizations, and preserving creative spaces in every neighborhood. It was so fun to spend such a special night with my dad. He may not know a lot about fashion – but he knows how important the arts are to our city. I couldn’t agree more. More soon, - Rosa B. Lander P.S. Will you support my dad like he supports me + all of NYC? Please consider making a contribution of $10 or more to his campaign today. He’s so close to hitting the fundraising cap before the next filing deadline on May 19, and we need all the help we can get.
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