In the days leading up to the Met Gala, when global fashion is largely defined by grand spectacle and high visibility, a more refined, intimate cultural conversation is unfolding in New York.
Curated by Sisi Cao , Founder of Sisi Hollywood and co-hosted with cultural collaborator Lorraine Silvetz, this exclusive gathering marks a meaningful shift: redefining fashion not merely as visual display, but as cultural identity, and transforming fleeting red-carpet attention into enduring cross-cultural dialogue.
At the heart of the evening lies a layered, sophisticated presentation of contemporary Eastern design aesthetics.
Renowned designers Ji Cheng and Liu Wei represent a distinguished creative voice rooted in profound cultural heritage, exquisite craftsmanship, and the timeless interplay between tradition and modernity. Their creations embody the continuity of Eastern aesthetics forged through heritage, far beyond fleeting seasonal trends.
Complementing their vision, acclaimed designer Jimmy Yao from U&Grace delivers a subtle, introspective design language with refined menswear pieces. Guided by the core philosophy “Time Cultivates Taste,” his work conveys that true elegance is never performative, but gradually nurtured over time — a timeless vision deeply resonant with the new wave of global luxury creators.
In striking contrast, Italian-Venezuelan designer Giuseppe Signorinni brings dramatic, high-fashion theatricality to the lineup. Celebrated for luxurious textiles, handcrafted Swarovski crystal detailing and sculptural silhouettes, his designs embody fashion as a powerful form of self-expression, making iconic presence an essential part of cultural identity.
Partially supported by the Shanghai Association USA and hosted at the prestigious Manhattan Elite Club, this private invite-only salon unites international creators, industry leaders and cultural influencers across continents. It stands not as a superficial runway showcase, but as a profound convergence of global cultures and creative minds.
The bespoke dress code, Black Tie — Interpreted Through Your Cultural Lens, delivers a subtle yet powerful message: cultural tradition is never static, but continuously reimagined through individual stories and contemporary perspectives.
Confirmed distinguished attendees include actress Livia Pillmann, actor and producer Sebastian Harrison, President of SPEC Entertainment William Harlam , alongside an elite roster of global cultural figures.
Far beyond a pre-Met Gala social gathering, this intimate evening carries a greater cultural mission.
It exists not only to showcase high fashion,
but to build a dignified, inclusive space where identity, heritage and narrative artfully intersect.
This forward-thinking cultural vision has become the signature of Sisi Hollywood and its founder — Sisi Cao a preeminent international media leader dedicated to bridging East and West through authentic, elevated public cultural dialogue.
Ji Cheng
A design by Chinese designer Ji Cheng, reflecting a refined dialogue between tradition and modernity.
Liu Wei
A look by designer Liu Wei, expressing contemporary femininity through structure and form.
U&Grace（Jimmy Yao ）
A menswear design by U&Grace, guided by the philosophy “Time Cultivates Taste.”