Lalisa “Lisa” Manobal and Nichapat ”Parn” Suphap show what art really means at the Met Gala 2026.

The Met Gala is back, right on cue (first Monday of May, as always), going all in on “Costume Art.” Straight from the Costume Institute’s latest show at the Anna Wintour Costume Center, it places style right between high fashion and fine art, nudging it into gallery territory – style as a form of visual expression in its own right, not just glorified dress-up.

Two Thai names joined the global style roster this year, stepping out in designer looks with a very intentional artistic direction as a response to this year’s dress code “Fashion is Art”: Lalisa “Lisa” Manobal and Nichapat ”Parn” Suphap. For both, it’s not their first rodeo, but they never fail to stun.

Koktail takes a closer look at each of their outfits and the stories behind them, from the design details and inspirations to how each look interpreted the theme in its own way, because there’s always more going on than what meets the eye (or what shows up on your feed).

1/2 Lalisa “Lisa” Manobal: Ethereal, Angelic Bride

Lisa showed up in a sheer, crystal-dotted look that has a soft edginess to it. A floating veil draped over her like a cloud of sparkle, held by sculptural arm movements that framed her countenance – a kind of angelic bride from another world. The whole thing felt ethereal and even a bit surreal, with every detail making the look seem almost weightless. 

Courtesy of Getty Images

The couture piece was designed by Hong Kong-born, London-based fashion designer Robert Wun, adding an international perspective to the outfit. As a member of this year’s Met Gala committee, Lisa also played a role in shaping the event’s broader direction, making her appearance feel especially fitting within the theme.

Courtesy of Getty Images

2/2 Nichapat ”Parn” Suphap: High Renaissance Couture

Continuing with the hand motif, Parn, a Thai fashion icon, appeared in a black, art-inspired gown referencing Michelangelo’s Creation of Adam, with sculptural hands extending outward as if reaching toward her silhouette. The look is a striking mermaid-style dress that fits close to the body before flaring into a sweeping skirt, anchored by shiny silver hand-like accents across the bodice and hips. 

Courtesy of Getty Images/nichapat

The mix of sleek black fabric and metallic detailing gives the outfit a bold, slightly edgy character that sits between fashion and wearable art. Kept minimal in styling, the overall effect is strong with a dramatic twist, making the concept feel present without being overdone.

Courtesy of nichapat