Los Angeles, CA – May 9, 2026 – The City of Angels once again became the epicenter of cultural celebration as the 2026 Gold Gala convened on May 9th, transforming the Music Center into a luminous testament to Asian and Pacific excellence. This highly anticipated annual event brought together a constellation of talent – from acclaimed actors and chart-topping musicians to elite athletes and visionary creators – all converging to honor the rich tapestry of Asian and Pacific Islander (AAPI) contributions to global culture and industry. The iconic gold carpet, a signature element of the gala, was ablaze with sartorial splendor, showcasing attendees who embraced a spectrum of fashion-forward statements. From the ethereal grace of couture gowns and the sharp precision of sculptural tailoring to the profound elegance of heritage-inspired embellishments and the bold drama of avant-garde silhouettes, each guest arrived poised to make a distinctive mark. This year’s attendees demonstrated a masterful blend of timeless glamour and daring fashion choices, underscoring the evolving landscape of style and cultural representation.
Founded by the Gold House, a nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting and advancing the AAPI community, the Gold Gala has rapidly evolved into one of the most significant cultural events of the year. It serves not only as a platform for recognition but also as a vital networking hub and a powerful statement of solidarity. The organization’s mission to foster a more inclusive and equitable future for AAPI individuals is vividly reflected in the caliber and diversity of attendees, as well as the thoughtful curation of the evening’s program. This year’s gala continued this tradition, spotlighting achievements across various sectors and fostering a sense of collective pride and shared progress.
A Symphony of Style: EnVi’s Best Dressed at the 2026 Gold Gala
As the stars graced the gold carpet, their fashion choices became a narrative in themselves, weaving together personal style with cultural significance. EnVi magazine, a leading publication dedicated to AAPI culture and fashion, has curated a list of the evening’s most unforgettable looks, highlighting the creativity, craftsmanship, and cultural resonance behind each ensemble.
Supriya Ganesh: A Fusion of Tradition and Pop Art
Actress Supriya Ganesh, celebrated for her compelling portrayal of Dr. Mohan in the acclaimed HBO Max series The Pitt, transitioned from the intensity of her medical drama to the radiant elegance of the Gold Gala. Ganesh captivated onlookers in a breathtaking strapless gown by Naeem Khan. The confection of layered tulle and raffia was not merely a dress but a wearable homage to traditional Indian raffia craftsmanship, a detail that underscored the gala’s celebration of heritage. The design’s artistic depth was further amplified by poppy flower motifs that artfully twisted down the skirt, a clear nod to the vibrant, pop-art sensibilities of Andy Warhol. Complementing the airy, voluminous silhouette, Ganesh adorned herself with delicate pieces from Shaneli jewelry and completed the ensemble with sophisticated Alevi heels, presenting a look that was both ethereal and artistically profound. This choice demonstrated a confident fusion of global artistic influences and a deep appreciation for artisanal techniques.
Anthony Keyvan: Minimalist Chic with a Focus on Grooming
Actor Anthony Keyvan, who reunited with fellow cast members from the popular series XO Kitty, exuded a refined sense of style on the gold carpet. Under the expert styling of the duo Annie Easton and Nora Foley, Keyvan opted for a textured wrap blazer paired with impeccably tailored trousers. His grooming was equally noteworthy, with his hair gelled back and makeup kept clean and luminous, perfectly harmonizing with the minimalist yet classic attire. The attention to detail extended to his grooming regimen, with his groomer, Colleen Dominique, crediting Caldera Lab, Armani Beauty, and Leonor Greyl Paris for their essential contributions to achieving Keyvan’s polished look. This understated yet impactful presentation showcased the power of meticulous grooming and sophisticated tailoring in creating a memorable red-carpet moment.
Eileen Gu: Princess-Inspired Poise in Pastel
Olympic Gold Medalist Eileen Gu made a graceful entrance in a confectionery pink gown designed by Andrew Kwon. The gown’s soft, pastel hue and voluminous layers of tulle evoked the enchantment of a fairytale princess, with a skirt that was both light and feminine. A unique design element featured shorter layers in the front, a strategic choice that served to elongate her already impressive figure, adding a touch of modern sophistication to the classic A-line silhouette. Gu’s presence at the gala underscored the growing influence of AAPI athletes in the cultural sphere, demonstrating that excellence extends beyond the athletic arena into the realms of fashion and public presence.
Anna Cathcart: A Playful Contrast in Black and Blush
Anna Cathcart, another prominent star from XO Kitty, graced the gold carpet in a striking figure-hugging strapless black gown by Bach Mai. The dress was distinguished by its bold, ruffled blush pink fabric that artfully flared at her hips, creating a dramatic peplum effect. Her hair, styled in soft curls by Terra Rose Puncerelli, and her makeup, curated by Kendal Fedail, were designed to complement the gown’s dramatic flair. The makeup look featured rosy cheeks, a glossy pink lip, and a subtle cat-eye, all chosen to enhance Cathcart’s natural features and echo the soft tones of the dress. This ensemble showcased a delightful interplay of classic elegance and playful design, proving that bold contrasts can create a truly captivating statement.
Manny Jacinto: Dapper Sophistication with a Personal Touch
Actor Manny Jacinto presented a picture of dapper sophistication in a cream-colored NB44 suit jacket by Nicolas Bijan, paired with classic black dress pants. Styled by the esteemed team of 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 perfectly complemented his defined features and dark hair. Jacinto’s presence at the Gold Gala held particular significance for him, as he shared in a Vogue interview that the event offers him a valuable opportunity to reconnect with peers and collaborators. He described the gala as "very uplifting and inspiring and always really fun," highlighting its dual role as a celebration of AAPI achievement and a cherished reunion of the industry’s talent.
Liza Soberano: Architectural Elegance Rooted in Heritage
Filipino actress Liza Soberano made a memorable appearance at the Gold Gala, adorned in a truly unique and 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 focal point. These decorative elements were strategically placed on the bust, waist, hips, and along the dress’s train, drawing inspiration from the elegant form of traditional bamboo fans. The ribbed structures adorning the skirt, designed to mimic fan ribs, were masterfully executed using a combination of contemporary fashion techniques and traditional boning methods, thus creating a harmonious fusion of fashion innovation and cultural heritage. This choice underscored Soberano’s commitment to showcasing her roots through high fashion.
no na: A Modern Interpretation of Indonesian Heritage
The four-member Indonesian girl group no na made a striking statement with their coordinated yet individualistic ensembles, each incorporating wastra nusantara – traditional Indonesian textiles. This collective choice powerfully reflected a theme of modern heritage, demonstrating how ancient artistry can be reinterpreted for contemporary audiences. Vocalist and rapper Esther Geraldine wore a chic gold tube top paired with a batik fabric tied at the waist, accessorized with an antique golden arm cuff. Shazfa Adesya embraced a more modern aesthetic with a sequined sheer corseted gown, complemented by a woven tapis lampung draped elegantly over her shoulder. Christy Gardena showcased an architectural top, reminiscent of futuristic armor, paired with a songket shawl and her hair pulled back in a sleek, modern bun. Baila Fauri opted for a sparkling nude gown adorned with a luxurious red Palembang songket, completing a look that was both glamorous and deeply rooted in cultural tradition. Their collective presentation was a vibrant testament to the evolving fashion landscape in Indonesia and its global influence.
EJAE: Korean Lacquerware Inspires Couture Grandeur
GRAMMY and Academy Award-winning singer-songwriter EJAE made her highly anticipated Gold Gala debut in a custom creation by LEJE. The pale blue gown featured a sophisticated basque waist that gracefully flowed into a voluminous, structural floor-length skirt. Upon closer inspection, the dress revealed intricate mosaic peony designs meticulously crafted from over 1,000 delicate pieces of mother-of-pearl. Inspired by the artistry of traditional Korean lacquerware (najeonchilgi), the gown was a breathtaking celebration of EJAE’s Korean heritage, translated through the medium of high couture. To harmonize with the mother-of-pearl embellishments on her gown, EJAE accessorized with elegant pearl earrings and wore her hair in a sleek high ponytail, culminating in two long braids. This ensemble was a powerful example of how personal heritage can be seamlessly integrated into high fashion.
Maia Kealoha: A Polynesian Tribute to Community and Success
Actress Maia Kealoha, celebrated for her heartwarming portrayal of Lilo in the 2025 live-action Lilo & Stitch film, attended her inaugural Gold Gala in a stunning gown by designer Kini Zamora. Kealoha’s dress masterfully incorporated Lauhala, a traditional Polynesian weaving technique, into the design of the dress’s bodice. She eloquently articulated the significance of her attire, 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." To showcase the elegant halter neckline and her features, Kealoha wore her hair in a high ponytail, styled by Tanya Alian, who also handled her makeup. Dangling pink orchid earrings added a final touch of tropical grace to her ensemble. Kealoha’s outfit was a poignant celebration of her heritage and a reflection of her remarkable achievements as the youngest native Hawaiian actress to star in a film that surpassed the billion-dollar mark at the box office.
H.E.R.: A Bold Statement in Petal-Inspired Couture
Singer-songwriter H.E.R. commanded attention on the gold carpet in a captivating gown from Phan Huy’s latest couture collection. The striking ensemble featured a nude tulle base meticulously adorned with thousands of individually placed gilded crimson chiffon leaf embellishments. These elements were artfully arranged to create a blooming effect around the bust and hips, imbuing the gown with an illusion of movement and texture. The boldness and dynamism of her attire served as a striking parallel to the powerful and evocative nature of H.E.R.’s music, solidifying her status as a true style icon.
Avan Jogia and Halsey: A Harmonious Contrast in Rahul Mishra
Actor Avan Jogia and singer-songwriter Halsey arrived as a striking pair, both dressed in exquisite creations by Rahul Mishra. Jogia exuded refined charm in an intricately embroidered black "Himadri" Sherwani jacket, accessorized with a selection of statement necklaces. While his color palette leaned towards sleek formality, the detailed beaded embroidery added a unique textural dimension to his look. In contrast, Halsey wore 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, drawing attention to her elegant braided updo and the rich green tones of her heavily beaded choker and Indian-inspired earrings. Halsey’s makeup, characterized by a luminous glow and dark-lined lips, was further enhanced by a subtle touch of green eyeliner on her lower waterline, a detail that harmoniously tied together the green accents with her overall golden ensemble. This coordinated yet distinct approach to dressing showcased the versatility and artistry of Mishra’s designs.
Eugene Lee Yang: Androgynous Allure and Symbolic Adornment
Eugene Lee Yang, a multifaceted figure known as a co-founder of The Try Guys, a filmmaker, and a prominent LGBTQIA+ activist, made a powerful fashion statement. He sported a black strapless corset by QUEERA paired with wide-leg trousers, dramatically completed by a long, flowing rose-covered coat from The Mayor Official. This all-black ensemble, with its fluid materials, created a sense of captivating androgyny, blurring the lines between traditional gendered attire. Adding a significant symbolic layer to his look, Eugene donned a lotus headpiece, featuring a golden lotus flower surrounded by artistically shaped lotus leaves, a poignant nod to the gala’s theme of cultural celebration and personal growth.
Esther Yu: A Golden Masterpiece with Tang Dynasty Roots
Chinese star Esther Yu embraced the gala’s "gold" theme with unparalleled opulence. She wore a breathtaking strapless gown from Laurence Xu’s Fall 2013 couture collection. The gown was intricately embroidered using traditional Panjin, a three-dimensional embroidery technique originating from the Tang Dynasty. This meticulous craft involves laying and couching gold or silver wire to form intricate traditional patterns and symbols, resulting in a garment of extraordinary richness. Trailing behind the dress was a dramatic black tulle and feathered train, evoking the majestic imagery of a phoenix’s tail. To balance her look, Yu wore a golden hair accessory on her left side and a single, striking triangular earring on her right. She also shared her excitement about her upcoming C-drama, Yun Chu Ling, a historical series promising themes of betrayal, revenge, and destiny, further highlighting her burgeoning career.
The Gold Gala: A Tradition of Empowerment and Visibility
The 2026 Gold Gala, held at the prestigious Music Center in Los Angeles, continued the organization’s impactful legacy of celebrating and elevating Asian and Pacific Islander voices and achievements. The event’s strategic timing, occurring in May, aligns with Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, further amplifying the significance of the occasion. The Gold House, through initiatives like the Gold Gala and its broader advocacy work, has become instrumental in shifting narratives and increasing visibility for a community often underrepresented in mainstream media and industries.
The gala’s commitment extends beyond mere recognition; it actively fosters a sense of community and provides a crucial platform for mentorship and collaboration. By bringing together established figures and emerging talents, the event cultivates opportunities for future growth and innovation within the AAPI community. The selection of attendees represents a diverse cross-section of the AAPI diaspora, acknowledging the vast spectrum of cultures, experiences, and contributions that enrich the global landscape. The fashion displayed on the gold carpet is more than just an aesthetic choice; it is a visual manifestation of cultural pride, artistic expression, and the growing influence of AAPI individuals in shaping global trends.
This year’s event, like those preceding it, served as a powerful reminder of the collective strength and creative dynamism of the AAPI community. The dazzling displays of fashion, coupled with the palpable sense of shared purpose, underscored the Gold Gala’s enduring significance as a beacon of excellence and a catalyst for continued progress. As the attendees departed, they carried with them not only memories of a glamorous evening but also the renewed inspiration and strengthened bonds forged at this vital celebration of AAPI achievement.
The continued success of the Gold Gala highlights a growing trend of cultural events that prioritize authentic representation and the celebration of diverse communities. The fashion choices made by attendees, such as those highlighted by EnVi, serve as powerful cultural statements, demonstrating a growing confidence and assertiveness within the AAPI community to showcase their heritage and individuality on the world stage. The event’s impact is expected to resonate throughout the year, inspiring future creative endeavors and further solidifying the AAPI community’s indelible mark on global culture.