The Met Gala may be global, but this year, African stars made sure their presence was felt, bringing a distinct point of view to the “Fashion Is Art” theme. While last year, we had a crop of more Nigerians and Africans embodying the “Black Dandyism” theme in African designers, this year, it was largely just western designers.

Tyla delivered high-glam drama in Valentino, while Skepta leaned into sharp tailoring with Thom Browne. Damson Idris kept things sleek and considered in Prada, and Wisdom Kaye once again proved why he’s in a league of his own when it comes to fashion storytelling. Alongside them, Yesult and a host of other creatives showed up and showed out, each look adding to a wider narrative of African style on a global stage.

Here’s what these Africans wore to the Met Gala:

Adut Akech in Thom Browne

Tyla in Valentino

Ayo Edebiri in Chanel

 

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Damson Idris in Prada

Skepta in Thom Browne

Wisdom Kaye in Public School NYC

 

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Anok Yai in Balenciaga