Anok Yai’s Best Fashion Moments Beyond the Runway

Few models in the fashion world today command attention, influence trends, and define style quite like Anok Yai.

Discovered via social media in 2017, the model’s rise from a viral Howard University photo to global runways transformed her into more than a temporary sensation; it made Anok a cultural force whose choices shape conversations around beauty, representation, and style.

That ascent reached a clear milestone in 2025 when Anok Yai was honored as Model of the Year at the Fashion Awards, an accolade that recognizes both creative impact and cultural resonance. Her acceptance, delivered in a dramatic custom corset gown, felt less like a trophy moment and more like a statement: a recognition of longevity, artistry, and the influence of models who use visibility to challenge industry norms.

Unlike many models who follow existing trends, Yai has carved her own path, blending runway drama with street-style experimentation, red-carpet sophistication with playful creativity.

Her journey from rising social media sensation to one of the most sought-after faces in high fashion is a testament to her versatility, confidence, and fearless approach to style. On the runway, she commands the spotlight with a signature walk that captures the drama and energy of every collection she graces.

On the red carpet, Anok Yai channels vintage glamour while incorporating modern twists that make each look distinctly her own. Off-duty, she transforms casual streetwear into high-fashion moments, proving that style is not confined to the catwalk or exclusive events.

Anok Yai’s fashion choices are a masterclass in individuality, a celebration of boldness, and a showcase of elegance reimagined for the modern era. Her ability to mix textures, colors, and silhouettes with confidence and flair has made her a muse for fashion designers, a trendsetter for fans, and a reference point for aspiring models across the world.

Ahead, keep reading as we explore Anok Yai’s best fashion moments over the years, from glittering gala appearances and iconic Met Gala ensembles to daring street-style statements and unforgettable event looks. 

One of Anok Yai’s early fashion moments was at the 2018 BoF500 Gala. She wore a full look by Mary Katrantzou, a London-based fashion designer known for bold prints and innovative silhouettes.

This early moment foreshadowed her fearless approach to fashion, blending color, print, and design in a way that would define her later style evolution.

At NYFW in 2019, Anok Yai showcased her creativity by styling an outfit made entirely out of belts. This playful approach highlighted her ability to innovate with unconventional materials and demonstrated her understanding of statement-making fashion without relying on traditional garments.

At the premiere of The Matrix Resurrections, the supermodel paid homage to the film’s theme with a bold ensemble inspired by the iconic red pill. Designed by Jawaya Alleyne, the look reflected her ability to blend pop culture references with high-fashion sensibilities, creating a visually engaging outfit that resonated with both film and fashion audiences.

For the 2021 Met Gala, Anok Yai glistened in an Oscar de la Renta gown paired with a feathered coat. This look has balanced elegance and drama, showcasing her deep understanding of how to create a memorable red-carpet moment. She continues to be a model who combines high-fashion polish with adventurous styling.

Anok Yai made a memorable appearance at the CFDA Awards in 2021 by embracing the pantless blazer trend in Michael Kors. This daring approach exemplified her fearless nature and her willingness to experiment with unconventional styling. The outfit became a memorable moment in fashion media, further cementing her status as a trendsetter.

At the 2022 Met Gala, themed “In America: An Anthology of Fashion,” Anok Yai opted for a Michael Kors ball gown.

The ensemble highlighted her understanding of red-carpet dressing, combining drama, elegance, and comfort in one show-stopping outfit. Her look celebrated American fashion while showcasing her individual style voice.

For Gigi Hadid’s Guest in Residence launch, Anok Yai balanced avant-garde and minimalist elements. She paired a statement skirt with a simple Henley top and a white Loewe bag. This outfit exemplified her ability to mix high-fashion statements with wearable pieces, creating looks that feel both editorial and accessible.

Anok Yai turned unconventional accessories into fashion-forward moments at Paris Fashion Week in 2022. She paired tube socks with gladiator sandals, proving that even seemingly simple pieces can be styled into standout looks when done with confidence. She consistently challenges traditional fashion rules and redefines what street style can look like.

Paying homage to Karl Lagerfeld for the 2023 Met Gala, the model wore a Prabal Gurung dress shaped like a pannier. This creative silhouette celebrated Lagerfeld’s legacy while allowing Yai to shine as a modern muse. Her styling combined historical references with contemporary flair, demonstrating her versatility and knowledge of fashion history.

At the 2023 Fashion Awards in London, Yai showcased her refined taste by wearing a custom Maximillian Davis gown paired with Ferragamo accessories.

The ensemble highlighted her ability to harmonize statement pieces without overwhelming the overall look. She consistently demonstrates an awareness of proportion, color, and texture that sets her apart in a crowded fashion scene.

Anok Yai made a bold street-style statement by wearing only a long maxi coat, denim cut-offs, and Loewe boots. This look was daring and memorable, embodying her fearless approach to mixing high fashion with casual elements. It became a defining moment in her off-duty style evolution.

Even as a front-row guest at Balenciaga’s Paris Fashion Week show, Yai commanded attention. She paired the brand’s City Bag with jean leggings and a fur coat, showing how she can transform everyday items into high-fashion statements.

Her presence in the audience proved that style is not just about the runway; it’s about how a person carries themselves in any fashion context.

Making her first Oscars red carpet appearance in 2025, Yai fully embraced Hollywood glamour. She wore a Marni gown accessorized with Bulgari jewels. The look was classic yet modern, showing that Yai can seamlessly adapt to the formality of red-carpet events without losing her signature edge.

For Gigi Hadid’s 30th birthday, Yai took a daring approach with a sheer skirt, thong, and fur top. This look blended sensuality with playful confidence, and it was a perfect example of her ability to take risks while remaining stylish. Her daring choices have often set trends and inspired countless fashion enthusiasts online.

For the 2025 Met Gala, celebrating “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” the supermodel opted for a Thom Browne suit-dress hybrid.

This look reflected her deep understanding of theme dressing and her ability to merge classic tailoring with contemporary fashion sensibilities. The ensemble was elegant, bold, and a perfect tribute to the Met Gala’s celebration of Black fashion excellence.

Anok Yai’s street style during 2025 New York Fashion Week remained a masterclass in casual chic. She paired faux-fur-lined shoes with laid-back clothing, showing that comfort does not have to come at the expense of style. This fashion moment captured the essence of Yai’s approach: effortless combinations that feel intentional, edgy, and modern.

At the BoF500 Gala during Paris Fashion Week, Anok Yai proved that she could make a statement without relying on trends. She wore a knit dress by George Trochopoulos in a bold blue hue paired with white heels.

This combination showcased her understanding of color, silhouette, and proportion, reminding audiences that fashion is as much about individual expression as it is about labels.

Milan Fashion Week in 2025 showcased Anok Yai’s fearless approach to street style. She turned unconventional men’s briefs into a statement piece by pairing them with a beige crop top and matching micro shorts.

Her ability to redefine casual wear into a runway-ready street look demonstrated her creativity and her influence in pushing fashion boundaries outside traditional shows.

Following the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in 2025, Yai transitioned from Angel wings to a daring, cut-out black dress from Fancí Club, a label beloved by It Girls.

This look highlighted her ability to balance sexiness and sophistication while keeping street-style elements alive. The cut-out design added intrigue, making her stand out in a room filled with models, celebrities, and fashion insiders.

At the Swarovski Masters of Light event in Los Angeles, Anok Yai fully embraced a Y2K-inspired princess look, creating an unforgettable fashion moment.

She wore a delicate mini skirt set paired with layers of silver jewelry that caught the light in every angle. Her styling was youthful yet sophisticated, proving her skill in combining streetwear energy with high-fashion polish. The fashion moment solidified Anok Yai’s status as a model who can embrace a red-carpet moment and make it feel effortless yet intentional.

Photo: Getty Images