When Laverne Cox first stepped onto the red carpet of the Met Gala in 2019, she was already a trailblazer—an Emmy-nominated actress, a LGBTQ+ activist, and the first openly transgender person to appear on the cover of Time magazine. But even for someone as accomplished as Cox, the Met Gala remains one of the most intimidating and glamorous nights in fashion. This particular evening, however, brought an unexpected moment that would become one of her most cherished memories: a legendary shade from none other than supermodel Naomi Campbell.
The incident occurred as Cox was posing for photographs alongside Bella Hadid. Photographers, spotting Campbell walking nearby, urged her to join the duo. According to reports, Campbell stopped, gave Cox a long, evaluative look, and then simply walked away without saying a word or stepping into the frame. It was a split-second decision that could have been interpreted as a snub, but for Cox, it was pure fashion gold.
Speaking on an upcoming episode of Bronwyn Newport's Walk-In Substack series, Cox recalled the moment with laughter and admiration. “It was the greatest honor in the world. The fact that I got to see that live? She was like… ‘Hmmm, No.’ And walked away,” Cox said, imitating Campbell’s iconic head-to-toe glance. The actress made it clear that she felt no resentment toward the supermodel, emphasizing that they have always had a cordial relationship. “Naomi and I are cool. I’ve met Naomi many times. She’s always sweet to me. [At] that moment, she just wasn’t feeling it!”
Cox even turned the moment into a badge of honor. “But that look [she gave me] – was so iconic. Like, to be shaded by Naomi Campbell?” she added. For Cox, being on the receiving end of Campbell’s famously selective approval only added to the magic of her first Met Gala experience. The story quickly resonated across social media, with fans and fashion insiders alike praising Cox’s grace and sense of humor.
Background: Laverne Cox’s Rise to Fashion Icon
Laverne Cox has long been a fixture in the fashion world, known for her daring red carpet choices and unapologetic celebration of her identity. She made history as the first openly transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for acting, and she has used her platform to advocate for trans rights and visibility. Her style, often described as bold and elegant, has earned her a place on countless best-dressed lists.
At the 2019 Met Gala, Cox wore a custom Christian Siriano ensemble that perfectly captured the evening’s theme: “Camp: Notes on Fashion.” The theme, derived from Susan Sontag’s 1964 essay, celebrated exaggerated, theatrical, and ironic aesthetics. Siriano’s design for Cox featured a dramatic black gown with a flowing train, intricate beading, and a striking headpiece that evoked both classic Hollywood glamour and modern avant-garde flair. The outfit was widely praised and cemented Cox’s status as a serious fashion force.
Cox’s love for fashion extends beyond the red carpet. She is an avid collector of Thierry Mugler designs, a passion she discusses in Newport’s Walk-In series, which takes viewers inside the closets of fashion insiders. Mugler’s architectural silhouettes and futuristic motifs align with Cox’s own fearless approach to style.
Naomi Campbell: The Supermodel Who Defines Shade
Naomi Campbell’s place in fashion history is undisputed. A pioneer for models of color, she has walked for the biggest designers and graced the covers of countless magazines. She is also known for her sharp tongue and unyielding standards, which have earned her a reputation for being both formidable and iconic. The notion of receiving a “shade” from Campbell is almost a rite of passage in the fashion industry—a moment that becomes a story to be retold with pride.
Cox’s experience fits perfectly into that tradition. Instead of feeling slighted, she recognized the sheer star power of the moment. “She knows she did it!” Cox joked, before clarifying that there is no lingering tension. This perspective reflects a broader understanding of celebrity interactions: not every rejection is personal; sometimes it’s simply a matter of timing, mood, or personal preference.
The Met Gala as a Stage for Memorable Encounters
The Met Gala is a breeding ground for memorable and sometimes awkward interactions. Over the years, the red carpet has produced countless viral moments—from subtle snubs to outright clashes. Yet what often sets these moments apart is how the participants choose to frame them. Cox’s decision to view the Campbell incident with humor and respect speaks to her emotional intelligence and resilience.
The 2019 Met Gala was particularly significant for Cox, as it marked her debut at the event. For many celebrities, the first Met Gala is a transformative experience, opening doors to new relationships and opportunities. Cox has since become a regular attendee, and her style evolution has been closely followed by fashion critics. She has used her platform to champion diversity and inclusion, urging designers to cast trans models and create clothing for all body types.
Broader Implications: Trans Representation in Fashion
Cox’s presence at the Met Gala is part of a larger shift toward greater inclusivity in the fashion world. While trans models and actors have gained visibility in recent years, they still face significant barriers. Cox has often spoken about the importance of showing up and being seen, even in spaces that may not always be welcoming. Her ability to laugh off a perceived slight from a supermodel demonstrates a confidence that comes from years of navigating marginalization and triumph.
In her memoir, Transcendent: A Memoir, Cox writes candidly about her journey—her childhood in Alabama, her transition, and her rise to fame. She also explores the intersection of race, gender, and beauty standards. The book serves as an inspiration for many who look up to her as a role model. Cox’s fashion story, including the Campbell encounter, is just one chapter in a life defined by resilience and grace.
The Walk-In series, hosted by Bronwyn Newport, offers a behind-the-scenes look at the personal style of influential figures. Future episodes will feature Betsey Johnson, Symone, and Christian Siriano, among others. Cox’s episode gives viewers a glimpse into her wardrobe, including her prized Mugler pieces, and offers personal anecdotes about her fashion journey.
Analyzing the Moment: Why Cox’s Response Matters
In an age where social media amplifies every celebrity interaction, the way public figures react to perceived slights can have lasting repercussions. Cox’s choice to share the story without bitterness is a masterclass in PR. It humanizes both her and Campbell, showing that even legends have off moments. It also aligns with Cox’s public persona—kind, humorous, and deeply appreciative of the fashion world’s quirks.
Fans and commentators have praised Cox for her ability to turn a potentially negative experience into a positive one. Many have noted that Campbell’s rejection, while perhaps unintended, actually elevated Cox’s status by association. Being deemed worthy of Campbell’s scrutiny is, in itself, a form of recognition. Cox’s laughter at the memory suggests she understands this nuance.
Moreover, the story serves as a reminder that the fashion industry is not always kind or fair. Even icons like Campbell have moments of unpredictability. But by sharing her perspective, Cox encourages others to find humor in awkward situations and to not take themselves too seriously.
Expanding the Context: Other Notable Met Gala Snubs
The Met Gala has seen its share of memorable snubs and interactions. In 2018, a video went viral of a woman appearing to push away a fan’s hand at the event. In 2015, Madonna and Katy Perry engaged in a tense exchange on the red carpet. More recently, the red carpet has become a stage for unscripted moments—some friendly, some awkward. Cox’s story fits into this tapestry of celebrity behavior, adding a layer of warmth and humor that sets it apart.
For Cox, the incident is not about drama but about the unique magic of the Met Gala. It is a night where the usual rules of decorum sometimes slip, and where the intersection of art, fashion, and celebrity creates unforgettable scenes. Cox’s ability to see the beauty in that chaos is a testament to her character.
In the years since that night, Cox has continued to build her career. She starred in the hit series Orange Is the New Black, hosted the reboot of Queer Eye, and remains a sought-after speaker on issues of diversity and inclusion. Her fashion presence has only grown, with regular appearances at major fashion weeks and collaborations with top designers. The 2019 Met Gala will always hold a special place in her heart, not despite the Campbell moment, but in part because of it.
As she told Bronwyn Newport, the memory makes her smile. “To be shaded by Naomi Campbell? That’s something you can’t buy.” And for Laverne Cox, that is fashion’s ultimate truth.
Source: AOL.com News