Anok Yai at MET Gala 2023

Photographers: Tone Woolfe | Lewis Mirrett | Deon Hinton
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Stylist: Carlos Nazario assisted by
Terrence, José Cordero, Christine Nicholson and Max Weinstein
Outfit: Atelier Prabal Gurung by Prabal Rana Gurung
Makeup Artist: Sheika Daley using Lancôme and Surratt
Hairstylist: Ursula Stephen assisted by Gabrielle Jeanne’
using Living Proof
Manicurist: Lux K
Veil: Piers Atkinson
Shoes: Jimmy Choo
Jewelry: Mindi Mond | Butani

I am going through a tough time right now so I decided to write about something that would make me feel better: the MET Gala.

There is a lot of research that goes behind it, which gives me a great excuse not to concentrate on things that hurt me, which is also how I managed to keep my high-functioning anxiety under control.

Today, I am delighted to write about the ensemble model Anok Yai wore to the event last year and how it paid homage to Karl Lagerfeld in its own subtle way.

The Black beauty donned an Atelier Prabal Gurung oxidized gold and silver hand embroidered degrade sequin paillettes and beaded bugle bead fringe pannier shape dress with sheer silk tulle mermaid skirt hand embroidered with cascading oxidized gold and silver sequin paillettes, paired with black satin Jimmy Choo ‘Kaylee‘ sandals.

The dress was inspired by a design from the Chanel Spring 1993 Couture collection, specifically the Look 77 worn by Cindy Crawford, which is something the model also told La La Anthony on the red carpet.

In a Vogue interview, Prabal Gurung himself explained that he wanted to create the idea of a girl emerging out of water and right to the MET Gala.

The real opulence of the dress was complemented with a pair of Mindi Mond dangling fancy cut earrings, and a Butani one-of-a-kind yellow and white diamond Between the Finger ring on her right hand, among others.

One of the best accessories of the night was her brown Piers Atkinson nude crin and Swarovski mask–its structure was reminiscent of the quilting technique that is a Chanel‘s well known trademark. Not to mention her see-through opera gloves that practically meshed with her skin. A true work of art.

Sheika Daley was in charge of Anok‘s makeup, and even though it was slightly covered by the mask, thanks to some behind-the-scenes shots, we were able to witness the beauty of her artistry. Daley indeed created a graphic black liner wing that she outlined with a gold liner. To add drama she used fluttery false lashes and kept the lips juicy with a clear glittery gloss.

All products used for the face and body were courtesy of Lancôme and Surratt (here is a breakdown written by the pro, slightly edited for clarity; keep in mind that these products just serve as a guide for you, you don’t need to use the exact same ones):

SKIN
– Teint Idole Ultra Wear Foundation #550;
– Teint Idole Ultra Wear All Over Concealer #520;
– Dual Finish Versatile Powder Makeup #510 & #530;
– Kabuki Brush #4;

EYES
– Drama LIQUI-Pencil (no shade specified);
– Idôle Liner (Black);

– Lash Idôle Mascara;
– Petit Crease Brush #13:

SETTING
– Long Time No Shine Powder (Deep);

LIPS
– Juicy Tubes (no shade specified);

BODY
– Nutritive Body Balm.

Yai‘s hair was styled by Ursula Stephen in a long mullet, something that is truly inherent to her nature. Anok always speaks her mind and she is totally unafraid of anyone’s opinion about her. She is a strong and confident woman and she knew her outfit would make heads turn–people gasped loudly once she strutted on the red carpet.

Stephen used Living Proof products to achieve the look.

Can we also take a moment to appreciate the South Sudanese model’s nails?

Nail artist Lux K, a fervent advocate for nail health, used only 10-Free Gel Nail Polish, which is a healthier and safer alternative compared to traditional nail polish brands. It’s a cleaner, non-toxic option.

This type of formula omits dibutyl phthalate, TPHP, toluene, xylene, ethyl tosylamide, camphor, formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, parabens, and gluten.

When you look at her nails, they look like a stormy, cloudy sky. The sight you see when you stare outside the window and you hear thunders in the distance. I am glad I discovered Lux K thanks to Anok, she is a great artist.

To conclude, I’d like to sing the praises of Carlos Nazario who has a special place in my heart.

This ensemble was masterfully executed and the synergy between Prabal Gurung and him exemplifies his fashion history knowledge and the respect he has for his peers and the women he dresses. I appreciated the fact that you had to intentionally look back at Karl Lagerfeld archives, without going for a copy or a remake.

For added context, it was Karl Lagerfeld who presented Prabal Gurung with his CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Award in 2010 and it is worth mentioning the loving words he had for Anok (shared on his personal Instagram) when describing their collaboration for the event:

“I have always loved Anok ever since she appeared in the fashion sphere a few years back. Hers is a rare beauty that hypnotises and mesmerises almost everyone. You feel her presence, for she commands it. But all of this was from afar.

So when I got to work with her this year for the Met Gala, I soon found out that behind that beauty, there is an equally fascinating and brilliant mind. I was smitten because a celebration of someone like her, one made of style and substance, has always been the guiding light ever since I started my brand. Collaborating with her and her team, led by the brilliant Carlos Nazario, was a joyful ride I shall cherish forever.

Anok, I wish you everything your heart desires and can’t wait to watch you soar high, higher than your imagination. You deserve all that and more. I look forward to more moments together, on and off the carpet. Till then, we have the memories of the Met – sparkling gold simmering with love. xPG”