Handwoven over 90 days by 500 skilled artisans using sisal fibre from Madagascar, the midnight blue masterpiece was transformed by artist CY Gavin into a field of daffodils, blending craftsmanship with high fashion
As fashion’s elite glided across the midnight blue carpet at the 2025 Met Gala, few may have paused to wonder where it came from. Even fewer would imagine that it started in the quiet town of Cherthala, which is located in the Alleppey region of Kerala. However, for Sivan Santhosh and the 500 artisans of Neytt by Extraweave, the day symbolised the pinnacle of precision, fervour, and heritage.
After creating an abstract, swirling design in 2023 as a nod to Karl Lagerfeld and a red-and-blue striped design in 2022, Neytt created the carpet for the Met Gala for the third time. The 2025 edition, which was hand-painted by New York artist Cy Gavin and featured a beautiful blue field adorned with narcissus blossoms, was motivated by ideas of identity and self-recognition for the Costume Institute’s exhibit Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.
The artisans, however, had already worked their magic before the artist could even pick up a brush.
This ethos is personal. Santhosh’s family has been in the coir and natural fibre business since 1917. His grandfather made doormats. Today, his team crafts carpets for one of fashion’s most iconic nights. But for him, the spotlight is best shared.
“This recognition is not just for the brand. It’s for our artisans, our workers, and everyone who’s been a part of this journey,” he says. “And I hope it motivates more Indian brands to dream big. The world is watching.”