The Met Gala, the one night where “overdressed” is the entire point.
This year’s “Costume Art” theme, centered on the relationship between fashion and the human form, delivered its usual spectacle. And yes, Heidi Klum’s “Veiled Virgin” moment grabbed a generous share of attention.
Mother Africa was well represented, by models based both within and without the continent: Tyla, Skepta, Anoi Yai, Damson Idris, Imaan Hammam, John Imah and Wisdom Kaye. If social media is anything to go by, you’ve likely seen more of Tyla than anyone else.And to be fair, her look earned the attention.
Designed by Alessandro Michele for Valentino, Tyla’s ensemble was a striking mix of glamour and personality. Clad to her frame was a crystal-embellished bodice flowing into a satin bleu paon skirt with a daring slit, paired with a sheer tulle top. It featured long sleeves, a deep-V neckline, and shimmering fringe and sequin detailing that subtly nodded to peacock-inspired drama.
For all its elegance, Tyla’s look wasn’t the night’s most compelling African fashion statement. She was outdone on the night by South Sudanese model Adut Akech. Her pregnancy had nothing on her custom Thom Browne black gown.
Paired with a sculptural off-the-shoulder sequin jacket, it was adorned with over 1,100 hand-crafted silk organza flowers, blending lace, cut glass beads, and sequins into a textured masterpiece.
Akech says her look “is inspired by birth and new beginnings” which seems so apt given that she is almost nine months pregnant with her second child.
Allied with Anok Yai’s statuesque presence in a Pierpaolo Piccioli-conceived “Black Madonna” Balenciaga look, it’s obvious the ladies stole the night. However, the men did have something to say. Case in point: Wisdom Kaye’s Public School double breasted-suit and John Imah’s Charles Harbison “bold is gold.”
No, not you, Damnson Idris.