The 2026 People’s Ball Take Over the Brooklyn Central Library in a Vibrant Celebration of Inclusivity and Creativity
[…] The post The 2026 People’s Ball Take Over the Brooklyn Central Library in a Vibrant Celebration of Inclusivity and Creativity first appeared on SHEEN Magazine.
Black News 
On the eve of the 2026 Met Gala and its theme, “Fashion Is Art,” the Brooklyn Central Library hosted The People’s Ball 2026, drawing a stylish and diverse crowds of all fashionistas to Grand Army Plaza on Sunday, May 3rd . This year’s ball honored the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, celebrating the enduring legacy of American fashion. The event also marked the return of the beloved ball after a four-year hiatus.
The ultra-chic and free event was hosted by actor and media personality Ariel Polanco alongside television and radio personality Bevy Smith. DJ Fritzo kept the energy high all night spinning dance music all night. The ball had plenty of surprises which adding to the excitement. The People’s Ball once again proved that fashion can be both a form of self-expression and a powerful statement. This gave a chance to spotlight emerging talent, while celebrating diversity and creativity all across New York City.
A community-driven alternative to the exclusive Met Gala, the People’s Ball embraces style straight from the streets, highlighting individuals who define fashion on their own terms.
“There are no designer dresses here!” said host Polanco enthusiastically. “There are no expensive tickets and tonight is about being comfortable in your own skin!” he said. “This is the official start of the 2026 People’s Ball!” said Smith, kicking things off from the library’s iconic lobby runway.
The evening began at 7 p.m. with a show-stopping performance by legendary Tony Award winner and four-time Grammy-nominated R&B artist Melba Moore, who energized the crowd and had everyone dancing on their feet.
The runway was filled with hundreds of innovative designers showcasing bold, original looks. Among the standouts was the mysterious and mononym name Todd, who showcase his Afrocentric and futuristic designs with his striking handmade gold mask. Park Slope’s Corrie M. presented a romantic avant-garde ensemble inspired by creatures from the post-apocalyptic series “The Last of Us”
Independent Black designers also made a powerful impression. Patricia’s Ties showcased her handmade neckwear turned statement pieces, while Eunice Jemmott celebrated her Bajan heritage with a vibrant blue-and-yellow design with matching fan. Activist and designer, The Leather Butterfly, used the runway to promote a political message, revealing a t-shirt saying “Protect Trans Kids”. Meanwhile, model August turned heads with a bold mix of streetwear and Harajuku-inspired style and confidently owning the catwalk with dark and edgy eye look.
The show then transitioned into a special segment honoring the legacy of American fashion, hosted by Brooklyn Public Library co-curator Souleo. He was dressed in an eye-catching corset tent dress with silver platform boots and layers of necklaces designed by life partner Black designer and artist, Beau McCall.
“This year’s theme helps us reflect on 250 years of history,” said Souleo “and the cultural contributions of women and Black communities in fashion.”
The first honoree to take the stage was, Native American designer Patricia Michaels, a citizen of the Pueblo of Taos in New Mexico. She was recognized for her ready-to-wear fashion label PM Waterlily. A former “Project Runway” finalist in 2013 and now an Assistant Professor at Parsons School of Design, Michaels spoke proudly about representation in fashion education.
“I am so proud to be Native American!” she said. “Tonight, is about creativity and cultural appreciation. For the first time, we are seeing Native designers teaching our craft at the highest level.” she said.
Next, award-winning creative director, costume designer, and stylist June Ambrose took the stage. With over 25 years in the entertainment industry, Ambrose has created iconic looks in hip-hop from Missy Elliott’s unforgettable inflatable suit in her 1997 debut music video “The Rain”, styling 25 looks for her 2024 “Out of This World” tour and designing for films like Hype Williams’s 1998 crime movie “Belly”
“I’ve always been inspired by people,” said Ambrose. “When I walked into this library, I saw art everywhere. We are art in our expression is our A.I. or authentic intelligence.” she said
The final honoree, legendary model and activist Bethann Hardison, reflected on her groundbreaking career. From her role in the historic 1973 Battle of Versailles to founding her own modeling agency that managed Black models like Naomi Campbell and Tyson Beckford and founding the Black Girls Coalition with supermodel and entrepreneur Iman. Her supporting Black models and representation made an impact remains profound.
“My greatest achievement is challenging the industry’s standards,” Hardison said. “Fashion for all is about making everyone feel included.” she said
The final segment returned to the runway, featuring even more standout looks. One notable guest is SAG-AFTRA actress and voice actor Charisse Matthews. She stunned and spread love in a strapless pink tulle gown, while Brooklyn designer Lamont Johnson showcased carnival-inspired pieces rooted in his Caribbean culture. The African Dandy, aka Sk Wilbur, celebrated Black Dandyism and his African heritage, independent Brooklyn designer Batista Collections impressed with intricate crochet work, and finally Lady Figurine embodied Lady Liberty in a powerful tribute to New York City’s melting pot of diversity.
The night concluded with the Brooklyn Central Library glowing as the celebration spilled outdoors. Guests danced, snapped photos, and flooded Instagram with their photos and tagged to #ThePeoplesBall on Instagram cementing The People’s Ball as the MetGala For All.
The post The 2026 People’s Ball Take Over the Brooklyn Central Library in a Vibrant Celebration of Inclusivity and Creativity first appeared on SHEEN Magazine.
