The 2026 Gold Gala, held on May 9th in the vibrant heart of Los Angeles, once again illuminated the city with a dazzling spectacle of Asian and Pacific excellence. This premier cultural event convened a constellation of talent, drawing together acclaimed actors, groundbreaking musicians, elite athletes, visionary creators, and influential industry leaders. As is tradition, the iconic gold carpet served as a runway for unforgettable fashion moments, with attendees showcasing a diverse array of sartorial expressions. From the sharp precision of haute couture and the architectural daring of sculptural tailoring to the profound elegance of heritage-inspired details and the dramatic flair of voluminous silhouettes, the night was a testament to individual style and collective cultural pride. Guests, whether embracing timeless glamour or making bold fashion statements, arrived with a clear intention: to be seen and to inspire.
A Night of Unprecedented Glamour and Cultural Resonance
The Gold Gala, established by Gold House, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering Asian and Pacific Islanders (AANHPI) in the United States, has rapidly ascended to become one of the most anticipated events on the cultural calendar. Its mission extends beyond mere celebration; it aims to foster a robust ecosystem of AANHPI talent and influence, creating pathways for success and visibility across all industries. The 2026 iteration, held at the esteemed Music Center, underscored this commitment, providing a platform for luminaries to connect, collaborate, and inspire the next generation. The event’s significance is amplified by the growing recognition of the AANHPI community’s contributions to global culture, arts, and business, a trajectory that the Gold Gala actively champions. This year’s gala, in particular, felt like a significant milestone, reflecting a period of unprecedented growth and influence for AANHPI creatives and professionals.
EnVi’s Curated Selections: The Night’s Best Dressed Stars
EnVi magazine, a leading publication dedicated to Asian and Pacific Islander culture and fashion, meticulously observed the sartorial landscape of the gold carpet, identifying the individuals who not only understood the assignment but redefined it. Their selections represent a spectrum of personal style, from the deeply personal to the boldly avant-garde, all while celebrating heritage and contemporary artistry.
Supriya Ganesh: A Symphony of Tulle, Raffia, and Warholian Blooms
Actress Supriya Ganesh, celebrated for her compelling portrayal of Dr. Mohan in the critically acclaimed HBO Max series The Pitt, made a striking transition from the demanding world of medical dramas to the ethereal glamour of the Gold Gala. Her choice of a Naeem Khan gown was a masterclass in sophisticated design. The strapless creation featured layers of delicate tulle interwoven with raffia, a deliberate and beautiful homage to traditional Indian raffia craftsmanship. This nod to heritage was artfully integrated with contemporary artistic influence, as the dress’s design was imbued with poppy flower motifs that twisted elegantly down the skirt, evoking the vibrant, pop-art spirit of Andy Warhol. The airy, voluminous silhouette of the gown was perfectly complemented by the subtle sparkle of Shaneli jewelry and the chic elevation of Alevi heels, creating a look that was both grounded in tradition and boldly artistic. Ganesh’s presence highlighted the growing recognition of AANHPI talent in mainstream entertainment, with her fashion choices mirroring the complexity and richness of her on-screen persona.
Anthony Keyvan: Understated Elegance with a Modern Edge
Actor Anthony Keyvan, known for his role in the popular series XO Kitty, exuded a refined charm on the gold carpet. Collaborating with stylists Annie Easton and Nora Foley, Keyvan opted for a sophisticated textured wrap blazer paired with impeccably tailored trousers. The minimalist yet classic attire was elevated by a clean, dewy makeup look and gelled-back hair, a deliberate choice by groomer Colleen Dominique. Dominique highlighted the crucial role of high-quality skincare and hair products in achieving this polished aesthetic, crediting Caldera Lab, Armani Beauty, and Leonor Greyl Paris for their contributions. Keyvan’s understated yet impactful style demonstrated that true elegance often lies in refined simplicity and meticulous attention to detail, a sentiment that resonated throughout the evening’s fashion narratives.
Eileen Gu: A Confection of Princess-Like Charm
Olympic Gold Medalist Eileen Gu graced the gold carpet in a breathtaking gown by Andrew Kwon, a confection of soft confectionery pink that exuded an almost fairytale-like allure. The gown’s design, characterized by multiple layers of flowing tulle, created a voluminous skirt that was both light and feminine, reminiscent of a classic princess silhouette. A unique design element was the shorter layering at the front of the skirt, a clever detail that not only added visual interest but also served to elongate Gu’s already statuesque frame. Her appearance underscored the intersection of athletic prowess and high fashion, showcasing that athletes are increasingly becoming style icons, influencing trends both on and off the field.
Anna Cathcart: Dramatic Flair with a Playful Contrast
XO Kitty star Anna Cathcart made a memorable appearance in a figure-hugging strapless black gown by Bach Mai. The dress was distinguished by its bold architectural detail: ruffled blush pink fabric that flared dramatically at her hips, creating a striking peplum effect. This design choice added a touch of playful theatricality to the classic black silhouette. Her hair, styled in soft curls by Terra Rose Puncerelli, and a youthful, radiant makeup look by Kendal Fedail – featuring rosy cheeks, a glossy pink lip, and a soft cat-eye – perfectly complemented the gown. The makeup’s emphasis on soft, youthful features harmonized with the gown’s romantic flair, creating a cohesive and captivating look. Cathcart’s ensemble demonstrated a keen understanding of how to balance edginess with a touch of whimsical elegance.
Manny Jacinto: Dapper Sophistication with a Timeless Appeal
Actor Manny Jacinto presented a vision of classic dapper style, opting for a cream-colored NB44 suit jacket from Nicolas Bijan, paired with sharp black dress pants. Styled by the renowned team of Ilaria Urbinati, Megan Lackey, Jina Dusara, and Mia Faigus, Jacinto’s ensemble was accessorized with a timeless black bow tie and a distinguished Jaeger-LeCoultre watch. These refined touches accentuated his defined features and dark hair, completing a look of understated luxury. Jacinto’s presence at the Gold Gala was more than just a fashion moment; he articulated the event’s deeper significance, noting in a Vogue interview that the gala serves as a vital opportunity for reconnection and inspiration within the AANHPI community. "It’s very uplifting and inspiring and always really fun," he shared, underscoring the gala’s role in fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.
Liza Soberano: A Vision of Heritage and Innovation
Filipino actress Liza Soberano captivated attendees with a truly unique and structural gown by Phan Huy, from their Fall Winter 2025/2026 Collection. The beige organza base of the dress served as a canvas for an extraordinary design featuring embroidered bamboo fans strategically placed on the bust, waist, hips, and cascading down the dress’s train. The ribbed structures that mimicked bamboo fan ribs were ingeniously crafted using traditional boning techniques, a testament to the seamless integration of fashion and heritage. Soberano’s choice not only celebrated her Filipino roots but also showcased the power of couture to blend artistic innovation with cultural narrative, making a powerful statement about identity and artistry.
no na: A Modern Tapestry of Indonesian Textiles
The four-member Indonesian girl group no na presented a cohesive yet individually distinct aesthetic, each member showcasing ensembles that artfully incorporated wastra nusantara, traditional Indonesian textiles. This deliberate choice underscored a theme of modern heritage, demonstrating how ancient crafts can be reinterpreted for contemporary fashion. Vocalist and rapper Esther Geraldine wore a striking gold tube top paired with a sogan batik fabric tied at the waist, accented by an antique golden arm cuff. Shazfa Adesya embraced a more avant-garde approach with a sheer corseted gown adorned with sequins, complemented by a woven tapis Lampung draped elegantly over her shoulder. Christy Gardena sported an architectural top, reminiscent of a futuristic breastplate, paired with a songket shawl and her hair pulled back in a chic, modern bun. Baila Fauri looked radiant in a sparkling nude gown adorned with a luxurious red Palembang songket. Together, no na presented a powerful visual narrative of Indonesian cultural pride and contemporary fashion innovation.
EJAE: A Couture Ode to Korean Lacquer Artistry
GRAMMY and Academy Award-winning singer-songwriter EJAE made a memorable debut at the Gold Gala in a custom design by LEJE. The pale blue gown featured a sophisticated basque waist that flowed into a voluminous, structural skirt. Up close, the intricate peony designs, meticulously crafted from over 1,000 pieces of delicately cut mother-of-pearl, revealed a breathtaking level of artistry. Inspired by traditional Korean lacquerware (Najeonchilgi), the dress served as a profound celebration of EJAE’s Korean heritage, translating centuries-old artistry into high couture. The mother-of-pearl accents on her gown were echoed in her choice of pearl earrings, and her sleek high ponytail, finished with two long braids, added a touch of modern sophistication to this culturally rich ensemble.
Maia Kealoha: Embracing Polynesian Weaving and Cinematic Stardom
Actress Maia Kealoha, beloved for her role as Lilo in the 2025 live-action Lilo & Stitch movie, made her inaugural appearance at the Gold Gala in a stunning creation by Kini Zamora. Kealoha’s gown masterfully incorporated Lauhala, a traditional Polynesian weaving technique, to form the intricate bodice of the dress. This choice held deep symbolic meaning, as Lauhala often represents unity and family heritage. Kealoha herself articulated this connection, stating that the dress 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, perfectly showcased the halter neckline and her radiant face. Dangling pink orchid earrings added a final touch of tropical elegance. Kealoha’s ensemble was a poignant celebration of her heritage and a proud representation of her achievements as the youngest native Hawaiian actress to star in a billion-dollar film.
H.E.R.: A Blooming Vision of Bold Artistry
Singer-songwriter H.E.R. commanded attention in a show-stopping gown from Phan Huy’s latest couture collection. The petal-textured gown, built on a nude tulle base, was adorned with thousands of gilded crimson chiffon leaf embellishments. These elements were individually placed to create a stunning blooming effect around the bust and hips, lending the illusion of movement and organic texture. The bold and artistic nature of her ensemble mirrored the powerful and dynamic spirit found in H.E.R.’s music, making a profound statement about the intersection of fashion and artistic expression.
Avan Jogia and Halsey: A Harmonious Blend of Culture and Couture
Actor Avan Jogia and singer-songwriter Halsey arrived as a stylish duo, both dressed in the exquisite designs of Rahul Mishra. Jogia exuded a sleek formality in a black embroidered ‘Himadri’ Sherwani jacket, accessorized with multiple statement necklaces. While his color palette was primarily black, the intricate beaded embroidery added a rich texture and a unique, artisanal flair to his look. Halsey, in contrast, presented a dramatic and flowing silhouette in the archival ‘Serpent’ gathered gown from Mishra’s 2024 Spring Couture collection. The plunging neckline and cascading fabrics accentuated her natural features, drawing the eye to her braided updo and the striking green tones of her heavily beaded choker and Indian-inspired earrings. Halsey’s makeup, a blend of glowing skin, dark-lined lips, and a touch of green eyeliner on her lower waterline, masterfully tied together the green accents with her overall golden ensemble, creating a look that was both glamorous and thoughtfully curated.
Eugene Lee Yang: Androgynous Chic and Floral Grandeur
Eugene Lee Yang, a prominent figure as a co-founder of the Try Guys, a filmmaker, and a vocal LGBTQIA+ activist, embraced a daringly androgynous aesthetic. He wore a black strapless corset by QUEERA paired with wide-leg pants from The Mayor Official, which created a striking, flowing silhouette that blurred the lines between pants and a skirt. This choice highlighted a bold embrace of gender fluidity in fashion. Complementing the dramatic attire was a long, draping rose-covered coat, adding a touch of romantic grandeur. Further embracing the spirit of the Gold Gala, Yang donned an elaborate lotus headpiece, a golden lotus flower surrounded by artistically shaped lotus leaves, symbolizing growth and beauty. His ensemble was a powerful statement on self-expression and the deconstruction of traditional fashion norms.
Esther Yu: A Golden Phoenix of Tang Dynasty Craftsmanship
Chinese star Esther Yu showcased a breathtaking display of opulence and historical artistry in a strapless gown from Laurence Xu’s Fall 2013 couture collection. The gown was a canvas for traditional Panjin embroidery, a complex 3-D technique originating from the Tang Dynasty that involves laying and couching gold or silver wire to create intricate patterns and symbols. The opulent gold embroidery was further enhanced by a dramatic black tulle and feathered train, evoking the majestic imagery of a phoenix’s tail. Yu’s accessories were equally striking: a golden hair accessory on her left side balanced by a single triangular earring on her right. She shared her excitement about her upcoming historical drama, Yun Chu Ling, hinting at themes of betrayal, revenge, and destiny that resonate with the powerful narratives often woven into such elaborate fashion.
The Enduring Impact of the Gold Gala
The 2026 Gold Gala was more than just a showcase of celebrity fashion; it was a vibrant affirmation of the AANHPI community’s growing influence and cultural significance. Each attendee, in their unique way, contributed to a larger narrative of pride, innovation, and solidarity. The event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of representation and the transformative power of celebrating diverse voices and talents. As the industry continues to evolve, the Gold Gala stands as a beacon, illuminating the path forward for Asian and Pacific Islander excellence in all its forms. The continued success of such events bodes well for a future where diverse narratives are not only acknowledged but celebrated on the world stage, influencing not just fashion, but also culture, media, and societal perception. The fashion choices on display were a testament to the rich tapestry of AANHPI heritage and the boundless creativity of its people, setting a high bar for cultural celebrations to come.
