Shop the Under- 50 Makeup Essentials Flau jae Johnson Used For Her First Met Gala

Get the Full StoryThe 2025 Met Gala was a night of Black excellence, power, legacy, and evolution. Household names like Rihanna and Dapper Dan dominated the iconic Met stairs in innovative looks that nailed the "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style" theme, but the night also boasted a slew of newcomers that are making their own mark - namely, Flau'jae Johnson. Styled by Amiraa Vainqueur, Johnson brought her sartorial best in a black-and-white Walter Mendez dress tailored by Marquise Foster, as she hosted E! News's CreatorCam-powered by Samsung. "This year's theme was about Black fashion and self-expression, so I wanted every part of my look, from the silhouette to the glam, to reflect that legacy while also pushing it forward," she says. She completed the look with a Lynn Paul headpiece and Grown Brilliance jewelry.

The young rapper and basketball star has amassed major accolades within less than a decade of being in the spotlight, including being one of the highest-earning college athletes in history. With her domination on the court and behind the mic, it's no surprise she found her way to fashion's biggest night. We caught up with the 21-year-old amidst the Met madness and learned everything she used to get ready for the monumental night, her tips for choosing a red carpet look, and much more.

While she leaves the bulk of the styling work in Vainqueur's capable hands, Johnson prioritizes self-expression when curating a red carpet moment. "Does it say something about who I am?" Then, "Is it going to make people feel something when they see it?" are some of the questions she asks herself when prepping for an event. "And of course, I need to be able to walk, pose, vibe, and be me in it. It's all about owning the moment and being confident," she says.

Ahead, read more about Johnson's getting-ready essentials for the first Monday in May, from her favorite lip gloss to the tech product she can't live without.

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