Wayman Bannerman, Micah McDonald, Chase Infiniti, Colman DomingoPhoto: Zeus Views
Ahead of fashion’s biggest night, celebrity styling duo Wayman Bannerman and Micah McDonald got the gang together to host their annual Pre-Met Gala Celebration. Taking place at New York’s legendary Boom at The Standard, the fete provided no shortage of fashion, fun, celebrity spotting, and good vibes—with a crowd that included Natasha Lyonne, Colman Domingo, Chase Infiniti, Tyriq Withers, Evan Ross, and Danielle Brooks.
Guests were transported through the hotel’s roped-off lobby area, and whisked up to the top floor via its iconic—and storied—elevators. Stepping into the gilded hallway onto the plush gold carpet, they were greeted by flashing lights and pulse-pounding club music. “Isn’t this fantastic,” gushed Domingo, making his way through the packed room. Impeccably styled by Wayman and Micah in a sweeping black velvet overcoat, Domingo added: “This event is a big highlight of my weekend because I get to support two people that I truly love and admire. Their creativity with fashion speaks volumes, and tonight we celebrate them.”
Looking forward to attending her first Met Gala, and sharing Domingo’s affinity for the duo who were behind her recent awards season red carpet bonanza, breakthrough star Infiniti chimed in: “I love being able to celebrate my team. They always style me in the most perfect way, and tonight is a moment that they both deserve.”
Presented alongside fragrance brand Mind Games, The Only Agency, and Don Julio Tequila, attendees got the party started with custom cocktails titled Luxury Margaritas and Siestas, as DJ Honeycut spun a mixture of ‘80s and ‘90s R&B intertwined with dance floor fillers. “I’m having a blast,” exclaimed Lyonne. Ross shared her excitement: “I’ve known Wayman and Micah for some time now, and it’s always a great moment whenever they invite me out.”
Staff served up delectable trays of crispy French fries and crème fraiche. “This is what the Met Gala weekend is all about,” said Kellon Deryck, a hairstylist with clientele including Megan Thee Stallion. “I’m looking forward to the big day on Monday, and this is the perfect way to usher that in,” he added. Christian Louboutin’s senior VIP and influencer coordinator, Brittany Edward, noted: “Wayman and Micah have always paid close attention to details, and their orchestration of tonight is no different.” Ah-Niyah Gold, the founder of A Gold Consulting, agreed: “This venue, the vibe, the people…it’s all magical.”
Hidden balconies provided glimpses of the city’s night skyline—and a quick breather away from the busy bash. “I’m having such a good time that I really don’t want to leave,” said Brother magazine’s Chanel Clemons. “I’m hosting my own after-party event tonight—but I’m having so much fun here!”
As for Wayman and Micah—they were thinking about the big day, mere hours away. “Monday will be our seventh Met Gala working together, and each year has taught us something different about the craft and about our work,” Bannerman said. “We’re honored to be here with our friends and family tonight,” McDonald added. “We’ve always envisioned ourselves at this level in our careers, and it’s great to be able to celebrate that.”
