LACMA’s Global Ambassador Skye Hankey On The Fine Art Of Dressing Up

The fashionable art lover and newly-appointed ambassador for Los Angeles County Museum of Art discusses her approach to red-carpet dressing and the designers she holds dear.

skye hankey interview lacma art+film gala — Photo: Michael Buckner/WWD via Getty Images

By Bryan Goh - published 11 Nov 2026

You might know Skye Hankey as someone who knows a thing or two about making an entrance. The couture collector famously swept through the 2025 Cannes Film Festival in four different designers, and then there are the photographs of her twinning with her daughter, Rome, in matching pastel Chanel tweed dresses, complete with miniature star-shaped minaudières, at the House’s fall/winter 2025 haute couture show. Fashion, however, is just one of Hankey’s many interests.

Hankey joined the board of directors of the Gabrielle Angel Foundation for Cancer Research in February 2026, and as of April 2026, became an advisor to Fashion Trust US, which champions emerging American designers. More recently, she was appointed a global ambassador for the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), giving her another opportunity to pursue her interest in the arts.

“I’ve always believed in the power of art to connect people, cultures, and generations, and I’ve seen that first-hand through my involvement with LACMA’s global ambassadors,” she says. Family is another reason the appointment means so much to her. “Being able to share my passion for art with my children while helping to inspire future generations makes this role especially meaningful to me.”

In an exclusive look behind the scenes, Hankey walks us through her preparations for the 2026 LACMA Art+Film Gala, one of Los Angeles’ most glamorous nights.

What do you love about the LACMA Art+Film Gala?

What I love most about the LACMA Art+Film Gala is how it brings together people from the worlds of art, film and fashion who all share a passion for creativity. I think it’s wonderful how Gucci has continued to support this event and the arts for so many years. It’s always such a special evening.

What drew you to this particular gown, and what made it feel right for the occasion?

I’m wearing Armani Privé, and I’ve always admired the House’s extraordinary craftsmanship and the way it approaches elegance with such precision and artistry. I wanted something timeless and sophisticated, with a sense of Hollywood glamour.

How involved are you in putting together your red-carpet looks?

I’m very involved, but I also love the collaborative process. I usually have an instinct about how I want to feel for an event rather than a very specific idea of what I want to wear. Of course, that can all change on the day! Some of my favourite looks have come from trusting someone else’s vision and being open to something unexpected.

What usually catches your eye first when choosing a couture gown?

Usually the silhouette. I love it when a gown has beautiful proportions and an interesting shape. Then I start noticing the smaller details, like the embroidery, construction and the way the fabric moves. Sometimes you see a dress and immediately know it’s special, even before you can explain why.

The level of craftsmanship and imagination that goes into creating a single couture piece is extraordinary. To me, haute couture really is wearable art, and I love that it continues to preserve these incredible traditions and techniques.

Which designers do you find yourself returning to?

I love the timeless elegance of Armani Privé, and I’ve had wonderful experiences working with Fernando Garcia and Laura Kim—previously at Oscar de la Renta, and with Monse now. Giambattista Valli is also very special to me. We’ve shared so many wonderful moments over the years. Dolce&Gabbana is another favourite. I love their extravagance, sense of drama and unapologetic glamour.

As a supporter of Fashion Trust US, which emerging designers have impressed you recently?

One of the things I love most about Fashion Trust is discovering designers with a unique point of view and the courage to pursue it. I’ve been particularly impressed by Zane Li of LII and the creativity behind Advisry. There are so many talented emerging designers, but having a great vision is only part of the equation.

It’s equally important that they have the support and resources to turn that vision into a lasting business. Being able to play a small part in that is something I find really rewarding.

If you could save just one piece from your wardrobe, what would it be?

It would have to be my gown from Dolce&Gabbana’s Alta Moda collection. I’m such a sentimental person, and that gown holds a very special place in my heart. To me, it’s more than a dress; it’s a piece of art and a beautiful memory. It’s something I’m saving for my daughter, and I love the thought of passing it down to her one day.

How has your personal style evolved over the years?

I think I’ve become more confident in my instincts as I’ve become more involved in the fashion industry. I’ve always loved fashion, but being more involved in the industry has given me a deeper appreciation for design and craftsmanship. I’m more willing to experiment and take risks, and I’ve learned that you don’t have to follow every trend. Sometimes the most interesting choices are the ones that go against the grain.

Do you have a signature beauty look, or do you enjoy experimenting?

With makeup, I definitely gravitate towards a signature look. I’ve learned what works for me and what makes me feel most comfortable and confident. Hair is where I like to experiment a little more. I think people sometimes underestimate how much a hairstyle can transform an entire look. That said, if we’re running short on time, I’ll usually fall back on a style I know works for me, even if it’s not necessarily the most perfect pairing with the dress. Sometimes feeling confident wins over getting every detail just right!

What is your favourite part of getting ready for a major red-carpet event?

I really enjoy the getting-ready process. It’s always fun having everyone together and seeing the look come to life. There’s lots of laughter, and I like to keep things as relaxed as possible. It’s important to me that my team feels comfortable and enjoys the process too. By the end, it feels less like we’re getting ready for a red carpet and more like we’re all just hanging out together.

How do fashion and art intersect in your life?

Fashion is art. Both are forms of creative expression, and I love how differently people can respond to the same piece. What moves one person might not resonate with another, and that’s the beauty of it. With fashion, you create your own stories through what you wear, while with art, I love discovering the stories and inspiration behind each work. Whether it’s a beautiful painting or an incredible haute couture gown, what matters most to me is its ability to make you feel something.

In collaboration with The Venture Management.