By Reynand Wu 
On May 9, 2026, Los Angeles once again became the epicenter of Asian and Pacific excellence as the prestigious Gold Gala convened its distinguished attendees. This highly anticipated annual event brought together a constellation of stars from the realms of acting, music, sports, content creation, and industry leadership. The "gold carpet," a signature element of the gala, proved to be a veritable runway of high fashion, showcasing a diverse array of sartorial expressions. From the sharp lines of couture and avant-garde tailoring to the intricate beauty of heritage-inspired designs and the drama of voluminous silhouettes, guests embraced a spectrum of styles. Whether opting for timeless glamour or daring fashion statements, the attendees of the 2026 Gold Gala demonstrated a clear commitment to making a memorable impact, solidifying the event’s status as a paramount cultural gathering.
A Night of Unparalleled Glamour and Cultural Resonance
The Gold Gala, established by Gold House as a premier platform to celebrate and elevate Asian and Pacific Islander (AAPI) talent and culture, has rapidly ascended to become one of the most significant events on the cultural calendar. Since its inception, the gala has provided a vital space for AAPI creatives and leaders to connect, be recognized, and foster a stronger sense of community. The 2026 iteration, held at the iconic Music Center in Los Angeles, continued this tradition, drawing a record number of luminaries and offering a vibrant testament to the growing influence and visibility of the AAPI community in global entertainment and beyond. The event serves not only as a celebration but also as a crucial networking opportunity, facilitating collaborations and championing the ongoing work of AAPI changemakers.
The choice of Los Angeles as the host city is particularly significant, given its deep-rooted connection to the entertainment industry and its diverse Asian and Pacific Islander populations. The city’s vibrant cultural tapestry provides a fitting backdrop for an event that aims to honor the rich heritage and contemporary achievements of these communities. The "gold carpet" itself symbolizes the precious value and brilliance of the talent being celebrated, transforming the arrival of guests into a spectacle of sartorial artistry.
EnVi’s Picks for the Night’s Most Dazzling Appearances
As the stars graced the gold carpet, fashion critics and enthusiasts alike were on hand to document the evening’s most striking looks. EnVi magazine, a publication dedicated to amplifying AAPI voices and culture, has curated a selection of the night’s best-dressed individuals, highlighting their unique style choices and the designers who brought their visions to life.
Supriya Ganesh: A Fusion of Tradition and Pop Art
Actress Supriya Ganesh, widely recognized for her compelling portrayal of Dr. Mohan in the acclaimed HBO Max series The Pitt, made a dramatic entrance that blended her professional persona with an artistic flair. Shedding the scrubs of her medical role, Ganesh opted for a breathtaking strapless gown by Naeem Khan. The creation was a symphony of textures, featuring layers of ethereal tulle and rustic raffia, a deliberate nod to the rich tradition of Indian raffia craftsmanship. The gown’s design was further elevated by whimsical poppy flower motifs that artfully twisted down the skirt, a clear inspiration drawn from the iconic works of Andy Warhol. This fusion of ancestral craft and pop art sensibility created a unique and memorable statement. To complement the dress’s airy and voluminous silhouette, Ganesh adorned herself with delicate pieces from Shaneli jewelry and stepped out in elegant Alevi heels, completing a look that was both grounded in heritage and vibrantly contemporary.
Anthony Keyvan: Understated Elegance with a Modern Edge
Anthony Keyvan, a rising star known for his role in the popular series XO Kitty, demonstrated a sophisticated approach to red carpet dressing. Styled by the adept duo Annie Easton and Nora Foley, Keyvan presented a refined ensemble consisting of a textured wrap blazer and perfectly tailored trousers. His grooming was equally polished, with his hair gelled back and a clean, glassy makeup look that mirrored the minimalist yet classic aesthetic of his attire. The meticulous attention to detail extended to his grooming regimen, with his groomer, Colleen Dominique, crediting Caldera Lab for skincare, Armani Beauty for makeup, and Leonor Greyl Paris for hair products as instrumental in achieving his flawless look. This understated elegance underscored Keyvan’s growing maturity as a style icon.
Eileen Gu: A Princess-Like Vision in Confectionery Pink
Olympic Gold Medalist Eileen Gu captivated onlookers with her enchanting appearance in a confectionary pink gown designed by Andrew Kwon. The dress exuded a soft, feminine charm, with its multiple layers of tulle creating a light and airy effect reminiscent of a classic princess A-line silhouette. A distinctive design element was the shorter layering at the front of the skirt, which not only added a unique visual dynamic but also served to elongate Gu’s already statuesque frame. The overall impression was one of graceful regality, perfectly suited for the glamorous occasion.
Anna Cathcart: Bold Contrasts and Playful Details
Anna Cathcart, another prominent alumna of the XO Kitty series, made a striking impression in a figure-hugging strapless black gown by Bach Mai. The dress was distinguished by a dramatic ruffled peplum in a blush pink hue that flared elegantly at her hips, adding a playful yet sophisticated contrast to the gown’s dark base. Her hair, styled in soft curls by Terra Rose Puncerelli, and her makeup, artfully applied by Kendal Fedail, enhanced the youthful charm of her look. Rosy cheeks, a glossy pink lip, and a subtle cat-eye liner accentuated Cathcart’s features, harmonizing beautifully with the gown’s distinctive design.
Manny Jacinto: Dapper Sophistication with a Personal Touch
Actor Manny Jacinto exuded timeless dapper sophistication in a cream-colored NB44 suit jacket paired with classic black dress pants, a design by Nicolas Bijan. Expertly styled by Ilaria Urbinati, Megan Lackey, Jina Dusara, and Mia Faigus, Jacinto’s ensemble was elevated by a sharp black bow tie and a distinguished Jaeger-LeCoultre watch, which accentuated his defined features and dark hair. Beyond the sartorial elegance, Jacinto shared a poignant reflection on the significance of the Gold Gala, noting in a Vogue interview that the event provides him with a valuable opportunity to reconnect with past collaborators. He described the gala as "very uplifting and inspiring and always really fun," underscoring its dual role as a platform for celebration and personal connection.
Liza Soberano: Architectural Elegance Inspired by Heritage
Filipino actress Liza Soberano presented a truly unique and artistic vision in a structural "fan dress" from Phan Huy’s Fall Winter 2025/2026 Collection. The gown, crafted with a base of beige organza, featured intricately embroidered bamboo fans as its focal points, strategically placed on the bust, waist, hips, and cascading down the dress’s train. The ribbed structures, inspired by the delicate ribs of traditional bamboo fans, were ingeniously executed using a combination of innovative fashion techniques and heritage craftsmanship, creating a piece that masterfully fused artistry with cultural significance.
No Na: A Cohesive Tapestry of Indonesian Heritage
The four-member Indonesian girl group No Na made a powerful collective statement with their coordinated yet individually distinct ensembles. Each member’s outfit thoughtfully incorporated wastra nusantara, traditional Indonesian textiles, embodying a theme of modern heritage. Vocalist and rapper Esther Geraldine donned a striking gold tube top paired with a batik fabric tied at the waist and an antique golden arm cuff. Shazfa Adesya embraced a more contemporary aesthetic with a sequin-adorned sheer corseted gown, elegantly draped with a woven tapis Lampung over her right shoulder. Christy Gardena commanded attention in an architectural, breastplate-like top, complemented by a songket shawl and her hair styled in a sleek, modern bun. Baila Fauri shimmered in a nude gown adorned with a luxurious red Palembang songket, showcasing the diverse beauty of Indonesian textiles.
EJAE: Couture Craftsmanship Reflecting Korean Roots
GRAMMY and Academy Award-winning singer-songwriter EJAE made a memorable Gold Gala debut in a custom creation by LEJE. The pale blue gown featured a flattering basque waist that flowed into a voluminous, floor-length structural skirt. Up close, the dress revealed an exquisite detail: mosaic peony designs meticulously crafted from over 1,000 pieces of delicately cut mother-of-pearl. This intricate detailing was inspired by traditional Korean lacquerware (najeonchilgi), a profound celebration of EJAE’s Korean heritage through the medium of haute couture. To complement the gown’s pearlescent accents, EJAE accessorized with pearl earrings and styled her hair in a sleek high ponytail, finished with two long braids.
Maia Kealoha: A Celebration of Polynesian Weaving and Cinematic Success
Actress Maia Kealoha, celebrated for her heartwarming portrayal of Lilo in the 2025 live-action Lilo & Stitch film, made a poignant appearance at her first Gold Gala in a stunning creation by Kini Zamora. The gown artfully incorporated Lauhala, a traditional Polynesian weaving technique, to fashion the intricate top of the dress. Kealoha articulated the dress’s significance, stating that Lauhala, often symbolizing unity and family heritage, was "fitting for the Gold Gala, an event that brings together AANHPI leaders to create a stronger community." Her hair, styled in a high ponytail by Tanya Alian, beautifully showcased her face and the halter neckline of the gown. Dangling pink orchid earrings completed her look, a perfect tribute to her heritage and a testament to her achievements as the youngest native Hawaiian actress to star in a film grossing over a billion dollars.
H.E.R.: A Bold Statement in Gilded Petals
Singer-songwriter H.E.R. commanded attention in a breathtaking gown from Phan Huy’s latest couture collection. The design featured a nude tulle base lavishly adorned with thousands of individual gilded crimson chiffon leaf embellishments, meticulously placed to create a stunning blooming effect around the bust and hips. This artisanal application of fabric created an illusion of movement and texture, mirroring the bold and expressive spirit found in H.E.R.’s own musical artistry.
Avan Jogia and Halsey: A Harmonious Blend of Indian Craftsmanship
Actor Avan Jogia and singer-songwriter Halsey arrived as a striking pair, both adorned in designs by Rahul Mishra, showcasing a sophisticated interpretation of Indian artistry. Avan Jogia cut a sharp figure in an intricately embroidered black "Himadri" Sherwani jacket, accented by a selection of statement necklaces. While his palette remained predominantly black, the detailed beaded embroidery lent a unique textural depth to his ensemble, embodying a sleek and formal aesthetic.
Halsey, in contrast, captivated in the archival "Serpent" gathered gown from Mishra’s 2024 Spring Couture collection. The gown’s plunging neckline and flowing fabrics beautifully accentuated Halsey’s natural features, while also drawing attention to her sophisticated braided updo. Her ensemble was further complemented by the rich green tones of a heavily beaded choker and Indian-inspired earrings. Halsey’s makeup, characterized by a radiant glow and dark-lined lips, featured a subtle yet striking touch of green eyeliner on her lower waterline, artfully tying together the verdant accents with her overall golden ensemble.
Eugene Lee Yang: Androgynous Chic and Symbolic Florals
Eugene Lee Yang, co-founder of The Try Guys, acclaimed filmmaker, and prominent LGBTQIA+ activist, presented a striking androgynous look. He wore a black strapless corset by QUEERA paired with wide-leg pants and a dramatic, long, rose-covered coat by The Mayor Official. The all-black ensemble, with its flowing materials, blurred the lines between skirt and pants, creating an intriguing and gender-fluid silhouette. Continuing the gala’s theme of symbolic representation, Eugene donned an elaborate lotus headpiece, featuring a golden lotus flower surrounded by artistically shaped lotus leaves, a powerful emblem of enlightenment and purity.
Esther Yu: A Dazzling Display of Tang Dynasty Embroidery
Chinese star Esther Yu embraced the gala’s namesake with a resplendent strapless gown from Laurence Xu’s Fall 2013 couture collection. The gown was intricately embroidered using traditional Panjin, a 3-D embroidery technique originating from the Tang Dynasty, where gold or silver wire is meticulously laid and couched to form classic patterns. A dramatic black tulle and feathered train trailed behind the dress, evoking the majestic imagery of a phoenix’s tail. Yu balanced her striking accessories, opting for a golden hair piece on her left side and a single triangular earring on her right, a deliberate asymmetrical choice. She shared her excitement about her upcoming C-drama, Yun Chu Ling, a historical drama promising themes of betrayal, revenge, and destiny, further highlighting her diverse career trajectory.
A Legacy of Empowerment and Continued Influence
The 2026 Gold Gala not only celebrated individual achievements but also reinforced the collective power and growing influence of the AAPI community. The event’s success underscores the increasing demand for authentic representation and the vital role that such gatherings play in fostering solidarity and driving progress. As the stars departed the gold carpet, the echoes of their fashion statements and the shared spirit of achievement lingered, promising a future where AAPI excellence continues to shine brightly on the global stage. The ongoing commitment of organizations like Gold House ensures that these conversations and celebrations will persist, paving the way for even greater visibility and impact in the years to come.
