Many celebrities were spotted in Nigerian brands at the 2026 edition of the 15th Benefit Gala, which took place in Los Angeles.
This just speaks to the beauty, craftsmanship, and increasing global influence of Nigerian fashion designers.
What is the 15th Benefit Gala?
This gala isn’t just a fancy red-carpet night where celebrities show up, pose, and go home. The gala is tied to The 15 Percent Pledge, a non-profit founded in 2020 by fashion designer Aurora James. 
The idea is simple: major retailers should dedicate at least 15% of their shelf space to Black-owned businesses. Not as a favour or as a trend but as fair representation.
Every year, the gala brings together celebrities, designers, creatives, and executives all in one room, dressed up, yes, but also showing visible support for Black excellence in business and fashion.
The 2026 Edition
The 2026 edition of the gala was nothing short of graceful. Think of old Hollywood glamour mixed with modern Black creativity. The guest list? Stacked.
Hollywood actors, music stars, fashion insiders, and influencers showed up, not just to be seen, but to stand for something. And as expected, the red carpet didn’t disappoint.
The unspoken rule of the night has always been clear: wear Black designers, support Black creativity, and make it visible. And in 2026, that message travelled far beyond the U.S.
This year, Nigerian designers confidently claimed space on that red carpet, dressing American celebrities for one of the most meaningful fashion events of the year. And honestly? That’s the kind of moment that deserves its own spotlight.
So let’s get into it. The American celebrities who wore Nigerian designers at the 2026 15 Percent Pledge Gala, and the designers who made those moments happen.
1. Olandria
The Love Island USA star showed up looking like she understood the assignment. She wore a custom House of Marvee with fringes that were delicate and beautiful. The dress trended last year for being prized at ₦11 million, but it’s totally worth it.
2. Chloe Bailey
She what? Chloe Bailey ate! Styled by Weiz Dhurm Franklyn, her look balanced edge and elegance in a way that felt very on brand for her. Just like every Weiz Dhurm Franklyn design, it was beautifully constructed.
3. Jackie Asamoah
Dressed in Sevon Dejana, Jackie leaned into clean lines, structure, and drama. It was certainly a bold choice, the velvet drapes reminded us of royalty.
4. Serayah
American actress Serayah stepped out in Onalaja, and honestly? It was a perfect match. The brand’s signature sculptural style blended beautifully with her confidence and presence.
5. Eni Popoola
This lifestyle content creator’s look designed by Hertunba, was elegant and refined with just the right amount of edge. She looked modern but rooted, polished and expressive. Hertunba’s tailoring did exactly what it knows best: elevate the moment without overpowering it.
6. Ayra Starr
Ayra Starr in Tia Adeola was a moment. She wore a feathery white backless dress and looked like a beautiful swan.
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7. Marvella
Marvella was spotted serving in a sculptural Hertunba dress, featuring a corset-over-fabric detail that really made the silhouette pop. What made the dress special was acunty face with red lipstick was made with the fabric.
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