The Who What Wear Podcast: Styling the 2025 Met Gala with Wayman and Micah

In this special bonus episode of The Who What Wear Podcast, host Mackenzie Green engages in an insightful conversation with renowned power stylists Wayman Bannerman and Micah McDonald. The duo shares their experiences and expertise in preparing high-profile clients, including Colman Domingo, for the prestigious 2025 Met Gala. This episode delves deep into their Harlem roots, the significance of Black Dandyism, and the dynamic of their successful collaboration.

1. Introduction to Wayman and Micah

Mackenzie opens the discussion by highlighting the impending Met Gala and introduces Wayman and Micah as the stylists behind the looks of notable attendees like Lizzo, Tessa Thompson, and Jody Turner Smith. She likens them to "the Avengers of styling," underscoring their influential presence in the fashion industry.

Notable Quote:

"I would say the Avengers of styling, perhaps giving Captain America and Iron Man a run for their money."
— Mackenzie Green [02:35]

2. The Initial Collaboration and Building Trust

Wayman and Micah recount their first collaboration with Colman Domingo, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and understanding in forging strong professional relationships.

Highlights:

• Colman Domingo's Unique Approach: Colman's ability to keep styling details under wraps added an extra layer of excitement and challenge for the stylists.
• Seamless Partnership: Their longstanding friendship and shared vision made the collaboration effortless and productive.

Notable Quote:

"From that point on, we made the magic and we even impressed ourselves of what we could do in Trendsend."
— Wayman Bannerman [06:14]

3. Harlem Roots and Black Dandyism

Delving into their heritage, Wayman and Micah discuss how growing up in Harlem influenced their aesthetic and professional ethos. They highlight Black Dandyism as a form of cultural expression and reclamation, transforming a historically oppressive stereotype into a powerful statement of identity and pride.

Highlights:

• Cultural Reclamation: Turning the concept of the dandy from a tool of mockery into a celebration of Black excellence and style.
• Influence of Family and Community: Drawing inspiration from their parents and the Harlem community, shaping their approach to fashion.

Notable Quote:

"This journey even starting back then in Harlem, meeting each other in Harlem, dreaming together."
— Wayman Bannerman [07:31]

4. Crafting Iconic Looks for High-Profile Clients

The conversation shifts to their methodology in styling clients, focusing on personalized storytelling through fashion. They emphasize understanding each client's unique personality and vision to create looks that resonate both personally and culturally.

Highlights:

• Collaborative Process: Working closely with clients like Tessa Thompson and Lizzo to blend personal style with innovative trends.
• Empowerment Through Fashion: Using fashion as a medium to express confidence and individuality, encouraging clients to embrace bold choices.

Notable Quote:

"It's about making themselves the best version of that. It's all about taste and execution and creativity and being bold."
— Micah McDonald [29:36]

5. Navigating Challenges and Learning from Clients

Wayman and Micah share anecdotes about challenging clients, such as their initial fitting with Regina King. These experiences taught them resilience and adaptability, ultimately strengthening their business acumen and client relations.

Highlights:

• Regina King's Impact: Despite initial nerves and setbacks, Regina King's positive feedback reinforced their confidence and approach.
• Growth Through Challenges: Difficult interactions served as valuable lessons, enhancing their ability to handle diverse client needs.

Notable Quote:

"The hardest clients are often the best teachers. They made us better."
— Micah McDonald [22:23]

6. The Power of Vision Boards and Manifestation

Reflecting on their early days, Wayman and Micah discuss the role of vision boards in shaping their career trajectories. This practice of setting clear goals and visualizing success was instrumental in their rise within the fashion industry.

Highlights:

• Strategic Planning: Vision boards helped them align their professional goals with their creative aspirations.
• Manifesting Success: The practice of visualization reinforced their dedication and commitment to their craft.

Notable Quote:

"This vision board was just so instrumental to what we did and what happened in our careers..."
— Wayman Bannerman [15:56]

7. Legacy and Future Aspirations

As the episode draws to a close, Wayman and Micah reflect on the legacy they aim to leave in the fashion world. They express a desire to be remembered as trailblazers who opened doors for future generations and continuously pushed the boundaries of style and expression.

Highlights:

• Trailblazing Impact: Striving to set new standards and inspire upcoming stylists and designers.
• Cultural Influence: Intentional invocation of culture and heritage in their work, ensuring lasting relevance and impact.

Notable Quote:

"People who really saw our heart. They saw two great people who became excellent at these things and really put their all into it."
— Micah McDonald [33:23]

8. Final Thoughts and Reflections

Mackenzie Green wraps up the episode by expressing admiration for Wayman and Micah's contributions to the fashion industry. She anticipates the impactful looks they have created for the Met Gala and looks forward to their continued influence on future fashion narratives.

Notable Quote:

"I cannot wait to see every single one of those people come down the carpet."
— Mackenzie Green [34:11]

Key Takeaways

• Cultural Heritage: Wayman and Micah's Harlem roots deeply influence their styling philosophy, blending tradition with contemporary fashion.
• Collaborative Excellence: Their seamless partnership and mutual respect are foundational to their success in high-pressure environments like the Met Gala.
• Empowerment Through Fashion: They prioritize empowering clients to express their true selves, fostering confidence and individuality through personalized styling.
• Resilience and Growth: Challenges with clients have been pivotal in refining their approach and strengthening their business model.
• Vision and Legacy: Their commitment to vision-led planning and leaving a lasting impact positions them as influential figures in the fashion industry.

Conclusion

This episode of The Who What Wear Podcast offers an in-depth look into the minds of two of fashion's most influential stylists. Wayman Bannerman and Micah McDonald provide valuable insights into their creative processes, the importance of cultural identity in fashion, and the dynamics of working with high-profile clients. Their journey from Harlem to the Met Gala serves as an inspiring testament to passion, resilience, and the transformative power of style.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Mackenzie Green:
  "I would say the Avengers of styling, perhaps giving Captain America and Iron Man a run for their money."
  — [02:35]

• Wayman Bannerman:
  "From that point on, we made the magic and we even impressed ourselves of what we could do in Trendsend."
  — [06:14]

• Wayman Bannerman:
  "This journey even starting back then in Harlem, meeting each other in Harlem, dreaming together."
  — [07:31]

• Micah McDonald:
  "It's about making themselves the best version of that. It's all about taste and execution and creativity and being bold."
  — [29:36]

• Micah McDonald:
  "The hardest clients are often the best teachers. They made us better."
  — [22:23]

• Wayman Bannerman:
  "This vision board was just so instrumental to what we did and what happened in our careers..."
  — [15:56]

• Micah McDonald:
  "People who really saw our heart. They saw two great people who became excellent at these things and really put their all into it."
  — [33:23]

• Mackenzie Green:
  "I cannot wait to see every single one of those people come down the carpet."
  — [34:11]

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of Wayman and Micah's influence in the fashion industry, their dedication to cultural expression, and their unwavering commitment to empowering clients through personalized styling. Whether you're a fashion enthusiast or someone new to their work, this episode offers valuable insights into the art and impact of high-profile styling.