Overview
- Johnson, who walked the Met Gala red carpet Monday, wore a black mohair tailcoat with a matching pleated skirt custom made by Thom Browne.
- He told reporters the choice reflects Polynesian tradition, saying that in his culture the most masculine men wear lavalavas, or skirts.
- Johnson, who has Samoan heritage, pointed to the lavalava as a common wrap skirt worn by men and women across Polynesia.
- Thom Browne described the ensemble’s craftsmanship, noting the tailcoat used over 350 meters of hand‑pleated silk ribbons in a “skeletal composition.”
- Reaction online was divided, with some praising the cultural expression and others criticizing the look, as the gala’s “Fashion is Art” theme framed the moment.