Vanessa Mdee Praises African Tailors After Met Gala Fashion Critique

Tanzanian singer and media personality Vanessa Mdee has sparked an online conversation after expressing her frustration with this year’s Met Gala fashion, praising African tailors as the true style icons.

Taking to her Instagram Stories shortly after photos from the star-studded Met Gala flooded social media, the former secular musician shared a candid take on the much-hyped celebrity looks:
“THESE MET GALA OUTFITS JUST MADE ME AGAIN CONCLUDE THAT AFRICAN TAILORS ARE THE REAL MVP’S.”

Mdee’s comment comes amid mixed public reactions to some of the extravagant and experimental outfits showcased at the prestigious fashion event, held annually in New York City. The Met Gala, known for its bold themes and high fashion, often stirs debate, and this year was no different.

While she did not single out any specific celebrities or designers, Mdee’s post was widely interpreted as a commentary on the lack of craftsmanship or cultural resonance in some of the outfits displayed on the red carpet.

Her remark quickly went viral, with many of her followers and fans echoing her sentiment.

Mdee, who is also known for her relationship with Nigerian-American singer and actor Rotimi, has largely kept a low public profile in recent years, focusing on family life and spiritual growth. She stepped away from the secular music scene in 2020, citing a desire to prioritize peace and personal purpose.

Despite this, she remains a prominent voice in East Africa and the diaspora, often using her platform to comment on cultural issues and uplift African creativity.

Fashion experts have also chimed in on her statement, with some agreeing that African tailoring, often characterized by detailed craftsmanship, vibrant fabrics, and custom fits, offers a level of artistry that remains underappreciated globally.

“Vanessa has a point,” said a Nairobi-based designer. “What our local tailors can create with limited resources is truly world-class. We just need more global platforms to showcase that talent,” she added.

Mdee’s bold comment adds to the ongoing discourse about representation and creativity in global fashion, especially how African designers and artisans are often left out of the international limelight despite their undeniable skill.

Vanessa Mdee’s words have reignited pride in African

By Kimani Mwangi