Colman Domingo’s distinctive style is emblematic of his vibrant personality, showcasing a maximalist approach to fashion that he exhibits with flair. Last night at the amfAR Gala during Cannes, his choice of an embellished Valentino suit, paired with a hat and striking Boucheron jewellery, further solidified his reputation on the red carpet. At 55, Domingo’s penchant for the bold is well-known; however, it is the subtle nuances of his outfit that are particularly noteworthy.

Beneath the layers of eye-catching embellishments lies a modern trend in menswear: the wraparound blazer. This silhouette, which sways towards a more fitted aesthetic, moves away from the relaxed, double-breasted designs popularised by Giorgio Armani in the 1980s. Other designers are also embracing this trend for the spring/summer '25 collections. For instance, Kenzo’s more casual offering featured printed denim that ties at the side, while Louis Vuitton showcased knotted designs, signalling a broader shift in menswear towards tailoring that emphasises the waist.

The amfAR Gala, held at the upscale Hotel Du Cap-Eden-Roc, is not merely a showcase of fashion; it is a pivotal fundraising event for AIDS research. This year's gala attracted a host of celebrities, with performances from artists like Ciara and Adam Lambert, blending entertainment with philanthropy. Notable auction items ranged from a Dodge Charger used in ‘Fast X’ to luxury Chopard earrings, underscoring the event's dual focus on glamour and significant charitable contributions. In total, the Foundation for AIDS Research, established in 1985, has successfully raised nearly $950 million for vital research and advocacy efforts.

Domingo’s recent style choices further reflect a commitment to bold sartorial statements. At the 2025 Oscars, he wore a custom Maison Valentino ensemble, consisting of a striking red silk jacket paired with a guru collar shirt, accompanied by a gold brooch – an embodiment of his desire to be “the colour of love” that night. This approach mirrors the celebrated looks seen at the 2025 Met Gala, which Domingo co-chaired. His custom Valentino ensemble at the event featured a floor-length royal blue cape and intricate bolero, demonstrating how fashion can be both a personal expression and a commentary on cultural themes.

The Met Gala, held annually to support the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute, has become a platform for artistic expression in menswear, highlighted by influential figures like Domingo. The gala's theme this year, 'Tailored for You', encouraged guests to explore the intersections of style, history, and identity. Domingo, along with fellow co-chairs like Pharrell Williams, showcased how contemporary menswear can not only push boundaries in design but also serve to celebrate cultural heritage.

Ultimately, Colman Domingo’s fashion choices encapsulate a larger narrative within the modern menswear landscape: one where innovation and inclusivity take centre stage. As designers focus on creating silhouettes that flatter diverse body types while offering an array of vibrant options, everyday people are empowered to adopt these trends in their own wardrobes, proving that you need not be as extravagantly expressive as Domingo to embrace the current fashion zeitgeist.

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Source: Noah Wire Services