When Adut Akech was just 18 years old, the South Sudanese-Australian supermodel attended the Met Gala for the very first time. No stranger to runways at that point, she strutted up the steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in a voluminous pink gown designed by Pierpaolo Piccioli. In the seven years since, she’s attended multiple times, usually wearing black-and-white embellished ensembles, but this year she arrived in a similar shade of pink as she did in 2018—only this time she’s 25 years old, a new mom, and collaborating with Swarovski on her dream look.
The blazer-like coat and dress, inspired by both dandy style (the night’s theme) and the elegance of swans, blended sharp tailoring with delicate embroidery. The showpiece of the look, a feathered collar that symbolizes transformation, was made with over 25,000 crystals. “This custom Swarovski look by Giovanna Engelbert feels like a true reflection of me: strong, sculptural, and feminine,” Akech told Bazaar while getting ready for fashion’s biggest night. Below, she opens up about the do’s and don’t of attending and the first thing she does once inside the gala.
Why did you decide to team up with Swarovski for this year’s Met?
I’ve always loved Swarovski’s creative team and all the things they do. Their creativity and craftsmanship are unmatched, and working with the team, especially Giovanna, was such an inspiring and seamless process. It felt like a natural collaboration because they really understand how to create pieces that feel both bold and timeless.
You’re no stranger to the Met Gala red carpet. What’s one thing you’ve learned from your past visits about the do’s and don’ts of dressing and attending?
It’s actually hard to stick to a strict list of do’s and don’ts because the Met Gala is full of surprises every year. Something unexpected always happens! But if I’ve learned anything, it’s to stay calm and have fun.
What’s your favorite moment from inside the Met Gala?
I love catching up with old friends and familiar faces…and of course, there’s nothing like a good little kiki in the bathroom. That’s where the best catch-ups happen!
If you could describe your look in three words, what would they be?
Opulent. Tailored. Comfortable—for the first time, honestly!
How about the beauty? Are you going for a high glam look, or something more low-key?
It’s definitely a bit of both. We’re keeping the glam rooted in simplicity: clean, radiant skin, and a soft, classic base—but playing up the eyes for something that pops just enough. The outfit is major, so the beauty had to complement without competing.
What do you hope viewers take away from your outfit? What are you hoping it says?
I wanted to wear something that honored the theme but was also fun and comfortable.
The dress code is “tailored for you.” What, to you, are the most important aspects when it comes to tailoring your clothes?
For me, tailoring starts with comfort. The fit has to feel good on your body—supportive and flattering. And then from there, it’s all about precision, proportion, and storytelling. Great tailoring is always a must!
Once the carpet is done, what’s the first thing you do once inside the museum?
If we manage to get through the carpet in time, I run to the exhibit. It’s one of the most special parts of the night. There’s something magical about being surrounded by all that artistry and history: it’s like stepping into another world, and it reminds you why fashion is so much more than clothes.
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