The fashion spotlight is currently trained on guys, as evident in how this year’s Met Gala will be the first to focus exclusively on menswear (specifically Black style over the centuries).
There are numerous dandies on the scene, but five are on everyone’s minds – the event’s chosen hosts, Pharrell Williams, Lewis Hamilton, Colman Domingo and ASAP Rocky, plus co-chair LeBron James.
Each one of them is known to really relish the idea of dressing up, and to be noticed for their outfits.
The Met Gala itself is recognised as “fashion’s biggest night out” the world over. Being associated with the occasion says a lot about having influence in fashion.
Williams himself has always had a snappy style.
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Back in his singer-songwriter days, Williams drew eyes for his bold streetwear looks.
It then led to him creating Billionaire Boys Club, his very own clothing company. Collaborations with luxury brands later poured in, and he is now heading the men’s division at Louis Vuitton.
Hamilton has never hidden his love for fashion. The seven-time Formula 1 world champion constantly attends runway shows and is quick to share his stylish outfits on Instagram.
In a 2016 interview with StarLifestyle that took place in Kuala Lumpur, he even joked about hating the fact that he has to wear the same outfit at all the race tracks.
“When I go for fashion weeks, in the same day I might change three to four outfits to attend different shows. It’s crazy. It’s also real work changing, but I happen to really enjoy doing it,” he said.Domingo is known for pushing the boundaries when it comes to accessorising. He frequently stands out for the jewellery he puts on – brooches, necklaces, rings, bracelets and more.
The actor is usually among the best-dressed male stars at awards ceremonies too, where he pulls off vivid colours and loud prints with ease.
Rocky, on the other hand, is able to capture the high-low aesthetic (the combining of formal and casual elements) perfectly.
The rap artiste is seen wearing everything from denim jackets and leather shorts to two-piece suits. Most of the time, he mixes and matches the different pieces to create his own unique style.
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As for James, he is another proof that athletes can be fashion icons. He is very much a trendsetter in the US basketball arena.
James’ tunnel walk (a tradition where players make their grand entrances before a game, walking to the locker room) is very much anticipated, as he often appears in outlandish getups.
He reportedly wore US$28,000 (approximately RM124,000) worth of clothes and accessories for the 2024 NBA season opener game.
All five men come from different industries – from showbiz to sports, but highlight how fashion can still be a universal passion to be shared and enjoyed.
