There’s a lot to play for, this coming Monday, in conceptualizing a look that celebrates the message. The ‘tailored for you’ theme reflects the exhibition’s focus on menswear, and is “purposefully designed to provide guidance and invite creative interpretation.” From the exhibition and beyond, this year is about examining the importance of clothing and style to the forming of Black identities in the Atlantic diaspora.

And André Leon Talley’s presence is enduringly felt at the Met Gala; looking back at his sweeping appearances at the Met, adorned with diamond brooches, wearing custom-made capes and dramatic coats in luscious fabrics. In later years, he would interview red carpet attendees for Vogue. Pieces from his grand wardrobe will also be on view at the Costume Institute’s exhibition, including a caftan by Patience Torlowei and pieces of his aforementioned Louis Vuitton luggage. As Anna Wintour has written: “André was a dandy among dandies and he radiated joy.”

And since Doechii smashed it at Paris Fashion Week—with a slew of looks from Acne Studios, Chloe, and Schiaparelli—and been a certified Thom Browne and Miu Miu girl, her revelling in Louis Vuitton makes total sense for the evening affair. Storytelling seems tantamount to Doechii’s creative rise and fashion arc, working with stylist Sam Wolff along the way and a stellar glam team. Met Gala 2025? No anxiety here for what she’s going to turn out.

The countdown continues, with Doechii as just one of many ’fits to have fun pondering and witnessing be brought to life on this coming first Monday in May.