Actor Jaafar Jackson attended the 2026 Met Gala in a tailored Ralph Lauren ensemble from the brand's fall 2026 collection. The look, featuring a velvet blazer and classic waistcoat, aimed to blend timeless elegance with the event's 'Fashion Is Art' theme. Jackson described the collaboration as intentional and grounding amid his busy schedule.
Jaafar Jackson, the 29-year-old actor portraying his uncle Michael Jackson in the upcoming biopic Michael, stepped onto the red carpet at the 2026 Met Gala on Monday evening. Fresh from a press tour, he opted for look 28 from Ralph Lauren's fall 2026 show. The outfit included a velvet blazer with contrast taping inspired by English sporting culture, a waistcoat, pleated tuxedo shirt, bowtie, and high-waisted trousers. Jackson worked closely with stylist Ilaria Urbinati and the Ralph Lauren team despite a last-minute timeline. “Ralph Lauren has this ability to make something feel powerful without overcomplicating it,” Jackson told Vogue. “The tailoring, the fabric, the way everything moves—it all felt very specific. It didn’t feel like I was wearing a costume.” The actor emphasized the personal nature of the process, noting that every detail, from the cut to the finishing touches, carried intention. This collaboration helped ease his nerves ahead of fashion's biggest night. “What excited me most,” he said, “was the opportunity to show up as myself, but elevated.” Jackson sought to honor the 'Fashion Is Art' dress code while revealing a side of himself distinct from the iconic performer he portrays.
