Doechii, Tyla, and Anok Yai Deliver Some of the Met Gala’s Boldest Red Carpet Statements

This year’s Met Gala took place on May 4, 2026, at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The theme was “Costume Art,” with a dress code of “Fashion is Art,” inviting guests to treat their bodies as living canvases. The night was filled with standout moments, but three women in particular delivered notable appearances. Doechii, Tyla, and Anok Yai each walked that carpet with a clear intention that offered distinct takes on the strong theme. Each look used a strong design approach.

Tyla

Photo: Getty Images

Tyla wore a custom Valentino gown designed under Alessandro Michele‘s direction and inspired by peacocks. The upper part was a sheer, plunging bodice made entirely of shimmering diamond and crystal chains, draped strategically to cover just enough and create a naked dress effect, which transitioned into a low-rise turquoise satin skirt with a central slit and flowing train. silver-bejeweled patterns adorned the drop-waist, and same coloured pendants dangled from her wrists and the bodice.

Her hair was styled by Yusef Williams in long, dark wet-look curls, while her makeup featured a soft cat-eye and neutral, glossy lips. She wore a layered crystal collar necklace and matching drop earrings, completing the look with aqua-colored satin heels that perfectly matched her skirt. She described herself as “basically a shiny peacock” and the gown backed every word of it. For someone who made her Met Gala debut dressed in real sand, she is clearly not interested in playing it safe.

Anok Yai

Photo: Getty Images

Supermodel Anok Yai wore a custom Balenciaga sculptural gown that referenced the Mater Dolorosa. Her look was a highlight of the “Fashion is Art” theme, designed with a living statue shape. She wore a black silk taffeta gown with a highly structured, over-the-top sculptural hood that framed her face. The bodice was intricately ruched and tightly fitted, transitioning into a full skirt with a long train. She styled the gown with opera-length black leather gloves tucked under the sleeves. Her look was accessorized with a high-jewelry Swarovski diamond necklace with a large teardrop pendant.

Underneath the structural hood, her hair was styled in smooth, tight braids featuring golden-beaded accents across her forehead. Her makeup was deeply expressive, with crystal tears painted down her cheeks to complete the Mater Dolorosa inspiration, her skin ultra-hydrated and glowy, paired with a dark, defined lip.

Doechii

Photo: Getty Images

Doechii‘s second Met Gala appearance, she took the “Fashion is Art” theme and gave it a dark, earthy twist. She showed up in a custom Marc Jacobs look that was all about the beauty found in decay. The rapper wore a sheer gown in a rich deep plum colour, made of layers of silk organza and chiffon. It featured a daring halter-style top and a high slit, trailing a long, airy fabric behind her like a shadow.

Her headpiece was the star of the look, wrapped in the same deep purple fabric as her dress, it stood incredibly high, giving a modern, high-fashion nod to traditional African styles like the Nigerian gele. Her makeup featured warm dewy tones, a dark ombré lip and smoky eye. She wore stacks of chunky silver and gold bangles on both wrists, and to keep that grounded, earthy feel intact, Doechii appeared barefoot with henna detailing on her feet.

The three looks stood among the night’s most discussed appearances.