08/07/2026
This year, we're inviting gala attendees to engage with fashion by stepping into the style, spirit, and imagination of q***r culture inspired by the history of Ballroom. Choose one of the five categories and bring your inspired interpretation to the night!
🪩 Disco Glam
👔 Power Suit
🌻 Print Parade
✨ Red Carpet Elegance
👒 Camp Couture
After the gala program, the celebration continues with The Category Is: Afterparty, which will include a runway moment hosted by Temitope Okunuga the Ingenious, where guests can choose to show off their looks, cheer each other on, and celebrate the creativity of our community.
Tickets on sale now, so pick your category, plan your look, and get ready to make an entrance! https://cbo.io/app/public/bidapp/thecategoryis
🪩Disco Glam🪩 Pure 1970s nightlife energy. Guests just need to look ready to dance at New York’s most famous 70s nightclub. Easy Outfit Ideas: Anything shiny, sequins, metallic fabrics, deep V-necks, or wide-leg jumpsuits.
👔Power Suit👔 Sharp, bold tailoring. Instead of worrying about corporate "realness," guests just need to show up in a striking suit. Easy Outfit Ideas: Any matching suit, blazer with flare pants, or a bold-coloured pantsuit. Bonus points for wide lapels or a fun patterned tie.
🌻Print Parade🌸 The fearless use of bold prints and colour that defined 1970s fashion. Easy Outfit Ideas: Paisley, Florals, Geometric prints, Psychedelic patterns, Chevron, Polka dots, Plaid, Mixed prints. Guests will be encouraged to clash patterns creatively.
✨Red Carpet Elegance✨ Formal gala wear, but elevated. Guests don't need a pageant gown; any formal evening wear or sleek tuxedo works. Easy Outfit Ideas: Long dresses, velvet tuxedos, silk gowns, or formal wear paired with dramatic jewelry.
👒Camp Couture👒 A category for guests who love to be extra. No strict rules, just the most creative, over-the-top outfit of the night. Easy Outfit Ideas: Huge sunglasses, massive afro wigs, dramatic capes, feather boas, or intensely bright neon colours. Think Rocky Horror, David Bowie, Grace Jones, Cher, Elton John, Divine and Glam Rock.
