By Pevita Pearce 
On May 9, the prestigious 2026 Gold Gala once again transformed the heart of Los Angeles into a vibrant testament to Asian and Pacific excellence. This highly anticipated annual event drew together a constellation of talent from the realms of acting, music, athletics, content creation, and industry leadership, cementing its status as a pivotal cultural moment on the entertainment calendar. The signature gold carpet, a beacon of glamour and sartorial innovation, bore witness to an array of breathtaking fashion statements. Attendees embraced a spectrum of styles, from the sharp precision of haute couture and avant-garde tailoring to the profound elegance of heritage-inspired embellishments and dramatic silhouettes. Whether opting for timeless sophistication or daring avant-garde choices, the guests of the 2026 Gold Gala arrived prepared to command attention and celebrate their cultural contributions. This year’s event underscored the growing influence and diverse representation of Asian and Pacific Islander communities within the global creative landscape.
A Night of Unparalleled Glamour and Cultural Celebration
The Gold Gala, a flagship event organized by Gold House, a pioneering non-profit organization dedicated to empowering Asian and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) in culture and technology, serves as a crucial platform for celebrating achievements and fostering community. Established with the mission to build a more inclusive future for AAPI individuals, Gold House has consistently amplified voices and recognized talent across various industries. The 2026 iteration of the Gold Gala continued this tradition, drawing a record number of attendees and media attention, highlighting the expanding impact of AAPI creatives on the world stage. The event not only serves as a glamorous red carpet affair but also as a vital networking opportunity and a forum for discussing the ongoing progress and future aspirations of the AAPI community within the entertainment and broader cultural sectors. Data from recent years indicates a significant upward trend in AAPI representation in Hollywood, with the Gold Gala acting as a barometer and accelerator of this positive momentum. The increased visibility and recognition afforded by such events are crucial for breaking down stereotypes and creating more opportunities for emerging talent.
Spotlight on Style: EnVi’s Picks for Best Dressed
As is tradition, EnVi magazine meticulously observed the sartorial landscape of the gold carpet, curating a selection of the night’s most impactful and memorable looks. The following individuals not only showcased exceptional personal style but also masterfully integrated elements of their heritage and artistic expression into their red carpet ensembles, making them the standout stars of the evening.
Supriya Ganesh: A Fusion of Tradition and Pop Art
Actress Supriya Ganesh, celebrated for her compelling portrayal of Dr. Mohan in the critically acclaimed HBO Max series The Pitt, made a striking entrance, transitioning seamlessly from her medical role to red carpet elegance. Ganesh graced the gold carpet in a magnificent creation by Naeem Khan. The strapless gown featured a voluminous silhouette crafted from layers of delicate tulle and raffia, a direct homage to the intricate traditions of Indian raffia craftsmanship. The design was further elevated by whimsical poppy flower motifs, artfully rendered and cascading down the skirt, a clear nod to the vibrant, pop-art inspired aesthetics of Andy Warhol. To complement the ethereal and flowing nature of the gown, Ganesh accessorized with exquisite, understated pieces from Shaneli jewelry and completed her look with elegant Alevi heels, striking a perfect balance between artistic expression and sophisticated glamour. This choice underscored a growing trend of designers drawing inspiration from diverse cultural crafts and artistic movements, infusing traditional techniques with contemporary sensibilities.
Anthony Keyvan: Understated Sophistication
Actor Anthony Keyvan, a familiar face from the popular series XO Kitty, reunited with some of his former castmates on the gold carpet, exuding a polished and contemporary style. His ensemble, meticulously curated by stylists Annie Easton and Nora Foley, featured a textured wrap blazer paired with impeccably tailored trousers. Keyvan’s grooming was equally noteworthy, with his hair slicked back and his makeup maintained with a clean, dewy finish, perfectly complementing the minimalist yet classic appeal of his attire. His groomer, Colleen Dominique, credited the success of his polished look to the efficacious use of products from Caldera Lab, Armani Beauty, and Leonor Greyl Paris, highlighting the importance of a comprehensive approach to celebrity styling that extends from skincare to haircare. This understated approach to formalwear demonstrated that confidence and refined taste can be powerfully conveyed through subtle yet impactful choices.
Eileen Gu: A Vision in Confectionery Pink
Olympic gold medalist Eileen Gu arrived radiating grace in a breathtaking gown by Andrew Kwon. The dress, rendered in a soft, confectionery pink hue, featured multiple layers of ethereal tulle that created a voluminous, princess-inspired A-line skirt. The innovative design incorporated shorter layers at the front, a detail that not only added a unique visual dimension but also served to elongate her already statuesque figure. Gu’s presence at the Gold Gala signifies the increasing prominence of athletes in cultural and fashion-forward events, showcasing their multifaceted talents and influence beyond their athletic disciplines. Her elegant choice reflected a modern interpretation of fairytale glamour, demonstrating that bold color choices can be both sophisticated and playful.
Anna Cathcart: Edgy Romance on the Carpet
Anna Cathcart, another star from the beloved series XO Kitty, made a memorable appearance on the gold carpet in a striking figure-hugging strapless gown by Bach Mai. The dress was distinguished by its dramatic ruffled blush pink fabric, which flared at her hips, creating a peplum effect that added a touch of architectural flair. Her hair, styled in soft, cascading curls by Terra Rose Puncerelli, and her makeup, artfully applied by Kendal Fedail, emphasized a youthful and romantic aesthetic. Rosy cheeks, a glossy pink lip, and a subtle cat-eye liner served to accentuate Cathcart’s features and harmoniously complemented the gown’s design. The collaboration between Cathcart and her styling team exemplified how beauty and fashion can be integrated to create a cohesive and impactful personal brand, resonating with a younger demographic that values both trend-forward style and authentic self-expression.
Manny Jacinto: Timeless Elegance with a Modern Twist
Manny Jacinto exuded classic dapper charm as he navigated the gold carpet. He opted for a sophisticated cream-colored NB44 suit jacket from Nicolas Bijan, paired with sharp black dress pants. The ensemble, expertly styled by a team including Ilaria Urbinati, Megan Lackey, Jina Dusara, and Mia Faigus, was elevated by a classic black bow tie and a distinguished Jaeger-LeCoultre watch, which artfully highlighted his refined features and dark hair. Jacinto’s presence at the Gold Gala also offered a moment of personal reflection. In a candid interview, he shared that beyond celebrating AAPI excellence, the gala provides a valuable opportunity to reconnect with colleagues and collaborators from his past projects. He described the event as "very uplifting and inspiring and always really fun," underscoring its significance not just as a recognition event but also as a community-building platform within the AAPI entertainment sphere. His look demonstrated that timeless silhouettes can be reinterpreted with subtle fabric choices and accessories to feel entirely contemporary.
Liza Soberano: A Structural Masterpiece Inspired by Heritage
Filipino actress Liza Soberano presented a truly unique and avant-garde statement on the Gold Gala carpet, wearing a show-stopping structural fan dress from Phan Huy’s Fall Winter 2025/2026 Collection. The gown, built upon a delicate beige organza base, featured intricately embroidered bamboo fans as its central motif, strategically placed on the bust, waist, and hips, extending down to the dress’s dramatic train. The ribbed structures adorning the skirt were inspired by the precise construction of bamboo fan ribs, a testament to the designer’s innovative use of traditional boning techniques to merge fashion with cultural heritage. Soberano’s choice to wear a piece that so artfully represents her heritage speaks to a broader movement of AAPI artists embracing and showcasing their cultural roots in high-fashion contexts, making a powerful statement about identity and pride.
no na: A Symphony of Indonesian Textiles
The four-member Indonesian girl group no na captivated attendees with their coordinated yet individualistic ensembles, which prominently featured wastra nusantara, traditional Indonesian textiles. This deliberate choice served as a modern interpretation of heritage, weaving cultural narratives into contemporary fashion. Vocalist and rapper Esther Geraldine embraced a minimalist yet striking look, pairing a gold tube top with a sogan batik fabric tied elegantly at the waist, accessorized with an antique golden arm cuff. Shazfa Adesya’s style leaned towards modern high fashion with a sheer corseted gown adorned with sequins, complemented by a woven tapis lampung draped artfully over her right shoulder. Christy Gardena showcased an architectural top, reminiscent of a futuristic breastplate, paired with a songket shawl and her hair pulled back in a sleek, modern bun. Baila Fauri opted for a sparkling nude gown, dramatically contrasted by a luxurious red Palembang songket. The group’s collective presentation was a vibrant display of Indonesian artistry and a powerful statement on the enduring relevance of traditional textiles in the global fashion arena, highlighting the rich diversity within Southeast Asian culture.
EJAE: A Celebration of Korean Lacquerware in Couture
GRAMMY and Academy Award-winning singer-songwriter EJAE made a memorable Gold Gala debut in a custom design by LEJE that celebrated her Korean heritage. The pale blue gown featured a sophisticated basque waist that flowed into a floor-length, structurally voluminous skirt. Upon closer inspection, the dress revealed intricate mosaic peony designs meticulously crafted from over 1,000 delicately cut pieces of mother-of-pearl. This exquisite detailing was inspired by traditional Korean lacquerware (Najeonchilgi), transforming the gown into a wearable work of art. EJAE complemented the couture piece with pearl earrings that echoed the mother-of-pearl accents and wore her hair in a sleek high ponytail, finished with two long braids. Her ensemble was a profound fusion of fashion and cultural tribute, showcasing how couture can serve as a powerful medium for expressing identity and celebrating ancestral traditions on a global stage.
Maia Kealoha: Weaving Polynesian Unity into High Fashion
Actress Maia Kealoha, known for her breakout role as Lilo in the live-action adaptation of Lilo & Stitch, attended her first Gold Gala in a stunning creation by designer Kini Zamora. Kealoha’s gown artfully incorporated Lauhala, a traditional Polynesian weaving technique, to form the intricate bodice of the dress. She eloquently articulated that Lauhala, often symbolizing unity and family heritage, was a fitting choice for the Gold Gala, an event that itself strives to unite AANHPI leaders and foster a stronger community. Kealoha’s styling, with her hair swept into a high ponytail by stylist Tanya Alian to showcase her face and the halter neckline, further enhanced the gown’s impact. Dangling pink orchid earrings added a touch of tropical elegance, perfectly encapsulating her heritage while celebrating her achievements as the youngest native Hawaiian actress to star in a film that surpassed $1 billion at the box office. Her ensemble was a powerful embodiment of cultural pride and artistic achievement.
H.E.R.: A Bold Floral Statement
Singer-songwriter H.E.R. commanded attention in a dramatic gown from Phan Huy’s latest couture collection. The petal-textured gown, built on a nude tulle base, was adorned with thousands of meticulously placed gilded crimson chiffon leaf embellishments. These were artfully arranged to create a blooming effect around the bust and hips, evoking a sense of organic growth and vibrant energy. The illusion of movement and texture within the ensemble mirrored the boldness and dynamism inherent in H.E.R.’s music, making her red carpet appearance a powerful artistic statement. This choice highlighted the growing trend of musicians leveraging fashion as an extension of their artistic identity and creative expression.
Avan Jogia and Halsey: A Harmonious Contrast in Rahul Mishra
Actor Avan Jogia and singer-songwriter Halsey presented a striking visual dialogue on the gold carpet, both adorned in creations by Rahul Mishra. Jogia embraced a refined aesthetic with his embroidered ‘Himadri’ Sherwani jacket in black, layered with statement necklaces that added a touch of regal flair. While his palette remained predominantly black, leaning towards sleek and formal lines, the intricate beaded embroidery provided a unique textural depth. Halsey, in captivating contrast, wore an archival ‘Serpent’ gathered gown from Mishra’s 2024 Spring Couture collection. The plunging neckline and flowing fabrics beautifully accentuated her natural features, drawing attention to her intricate braided updo and the rich green tones of her heavily beaded choker and Indian-inspired earrings. Halsey’s makeup, characterized by a dewy glow and dark-lined lips, was further elevated by a striking green eyeliner on her lower waterline, a subtle yet effective detail that harmonized with the emerald hues in her jewelry and tied her entire ensemble together with a cohesive, artistic vision. Their coordinated yet contrasting looks demonstrated a sophisticated understanding of sartorial storytelling and the power of complementary styles.
Eugene Lee Yang: Androgyny and Floral Grandeur
Eugene Lee Yang, a prominent figure as a co-founder of The Try Guys, a filmmaker, and a vocal LGBTQIA+ activist, made a powerful statement at the 2026 Gold Gala. Yang presented a striking androgynous look, featuring a black strapless corset by QUEERA paired with wide-leg pants from The Mayor Official. The ensemble was completed by a dramatic, long, draping rose-covered coat, creating an illusionary effect that blurred the lines between pants and a skirt, challenging traditional gendered silhouettes. Continuing the gala’s theme of cultural celebration, Yang also donned a remarkable lotus headpiece, featuring a golden lotus flower encircled by artistically shaped lotus leaves. This ensemble was a masterful blend of high fashion, personal expression, and symbolic artistry, resonating deeply with the event’s ethos of inclusivity and cultural pride.
Esther Yu: A Golden Tribute to Tang Dynasty Embroidery
Chinese star Esther Yu embraced the "gold" theme of the gala with unparalleled opulence. She wore a magnificent strapless gown from Laurence Xu’s Fall 2013 couture collection, a piece that served as a canvas for the ancient art of Panjin embroidery. This 3-D embroidery technique, originating from the Tang Dynasty, involves laying and couching gold or silver wire to create intricate traditional patterns and symbols. Trailing behind the gown was a dramatic black tulle and feathered train, evoking the majestic imagery of a phoenix’s tail. Yu’s styling was equally thoughtful, featuring a golden hair accessory on her left side, balanced by a single, striking triangular earring on her right. During interviews, she shared her excitement about her upcoming C-drama, Yun Chu Ling, a historical drama promising themes of betrayal, revenge, and destiny. Yu’s ensemble was a breathtaking fusion of historical artistry and contemporary couture, a testament to the enduring legacy of Chinese craftsmanship.
The 2026 Gold Gala not only celebrated the achievements of AAPI individuals but also underscored the evolving narrative of representation and influence within the global entertainment and cultural landscape. The fashion showcased on the gold carpet was more than just style; it was a declaration of identity, a celebration of heritage, and a bold statement about the future. As these talented individuals continue to break barriers and redefine industries, events like the Gold Gala remain crucial in amplifying their voices and inspiring the next generation.
For more insights into AAPI fashion on the red carpet, explore "API Stars Rock The 2026 Met Gala Carpet."
