Seiuli Dwayne Johnson appeared at the Met Gala wearing an ie lavalava over his pants, saying his Polynesian culture inspired his outfit.

On Monday, 4 May, at the 2026 Met Gala, Seiuli's bold outfit drew attention for its cultural reference. 

The WWE legend rocked a multi-million dollar watch around his left wrist as well for the star-studded affair at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. But it was the lavalava that had everyone talking.

Speaking with reporters, Seiuli said he discussed the look with designer Thom Browne’s team.

“In our culture, Polynesian culture, we rock lavalavas, we rock skirts,” he said. 

“The most masculine men, not that I’m one of them, but the most masculine men wear lavalavas and skirts.”

“I feel great,” he said when asked how it felt to wear the outfit.

Seiuli and his wife, Lauren Hashian, arrived together at the Metropolitan Museum of Art for the Costume Institute benefit gala, which celebrated the opening of the “Costume Art” exhibition in New York.

This is not the first time the Samoan-American Hollywood star has credited his Polynesian heritage. At a recent Moana showcase and CinemaCon event, he spoke about his late grandfather, High Chief Peter Maivia, saying he inspired Maui.