The Met Gala has long been a space where beauty and fashion operate in tandem, each reinforcing the other to create a complete visual narrative. At this year’s event, held May 4 at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, that relationship felt especially intentional. With a dress code of “Fashion is Art,” attendees were invited to explore the body as a canvas, using clothing, hair, and makeup to express a fully realized point of view.
Among the standout beauty moments of the evening was SZA’s hair, which struck a balance between softness and precision. The look was defined by a seamless lace installation and a polished finish that appeared effortless, though it was anything but. Her stylist, Devante Turnbull, offered insight into the process, revealing a method rooted in preparation, layering, and attention to detail, powered by a lineup of KISS Colors & Care products.
The foundation of the look began with a fresh braid-down, ensuring the hair was laid flat and secure beneath the unit. Turnbull then applied a beige HD wig cap and customized it using the KISS Colors & Care Tinted Lace Wig Powder in Light Warm Brown. “After a fresh braid down, I applied a beige HD wig cap, then topped it off with the Tinted Lace Wig Powder in Light Warm Brown,” he explained. “I love how lightweight this powder is. I also applied a small amount directly on top of the lace cap.” This step is essential in creating the illusion of scalp continuity, allowing the lace to blend seamlessly into the skin.
Skin preparation followed. Before applying any adhesive, Turnbull used micellar water to remove oils and residue from the hairline. He then applied three layers of the KISS Colors & Care Extreme Hold Lace Bond, allowing each layer to dry completely before pressing the lace into place. “To apply the wig, I first used micellar water to remove any excess oils or makeup,” he said. “Then I applied three layers of the Extreme Hold Lace Bond, allowing each layer to dry clear before pressing the lace into the glue.” The layering technique ensures both durability and a clean, undetectable finish.
Once the wig was in place, Turnbull focused on securing the install without compromising the integrity of the hair. He used a blow dryer on a low, cool setting to set the adhesive, followed by the KISS Colors & Care Fashion Edge Band to reinforce the hairline. “To further secure the install, I used a blow dryer on a low, cool setting for about two minutes after laying the lace,” he noted. “Next, I tied down the front of the lace with the Fashion Edge Band before styling.” This step allows the lace to fully set against the skin, contributing to the overall seamless effect.
Styling the hair required a balance of control and restraint. Turnbull used the KISS Colors & Care Heat Protector Hair Wax Stick to smooth the top of the hair, then followed with a hot comb to refine the finish. “I used the Heat Protector Hair Wax Stick to lay the top of the hair down, then followed up with my hot comb,” he said. The result is a sleek surface that maintains movement without appearing stiff or overly processed.
For the final step, Turnbull added an extra layer of security using the KISS Colors & Care Lace Bond Adhesive Spray, enhancing the overall “melt.” “For final touch-ups, I sprayed one layer of the Lace Bond Adhesive Spray,” he shared. “This adds another level of security and gives the install that seamless melt.” The technique reinforces the illusion that the hair is growing directly from the scalp, a hallmark of high-level wig work. The look was graced with an ornate headpiece of spring florals and cowrie shells.
Hair–especially Black hair–plays a critical role in the storytelling of fashion. In a year where the exhibition centers the relationship between the body and artistic expression, the precision of her install reflects the same level of craftsmanship seen in the garments themselves.
Photos courtesy of KISS.
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