Here is a roundup of the notable looks from the 2026 ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Awards.
Drama, Drama, Drama
Chloe Bailey brought the drama wearing a Harris Reed Spring 2026 gown. With a sculpted floral bodice, a deep red velvet peplum, and a tiger-print skirt, there is a lot happening here, yet it comes together with real confidence. The theatrical mix of textures and colours could have easily overwhelmed, but Chloe carries it with the kind of conviction that makes the look sing. This is one of my favourite looks from her in awhile. I always appreciate it when she leans into fashion with this level of commitment.
Soft Glamour
Halle Bailey wore Cult Gaia, opting for an olive green halter Fall 2026 gown that looked beautiful against her complexion, defined by soft pleats and fluid draping. The high neckline and gathered detailing give the look a statuesque presence. A rare double win for the sisters.
Embroidered Elegance
Coco Jones wore Tony Ward, delivering sultry elegance, with trailing florals giving the gown beautiful colourful and texture.
Modern Texture Play
When I saw Jurnee Smollett in this black lattice-textured Diotima Fall 2025 dress, I said, this is the Jurnee I know and love. I haven’t seen or felt this sharp, modern, and completely self-assured version of her style in a long while. I hope this is her turning point.
Mini Dress, Major Statement
Marsai Martin wore a Phan Huy Fall 2025 strapless mini dress with a dramatic metallic shawl. The contrast between the structured simplicity of the dress and the sweeping volume of the shawl makes this look memorable. It is youthful, playful, and cleverly styled.
Graphic Fringe Detail
Nathalie Emmanuel was easily my favourite at this event, after Zendaya, in Diotima Spring 2026 look. The unexpected placement of the acid green textured fringe adds a graphic twist that feels modern and refreshingly different from anything else we saw on this red carpet.
Clean Tailoring Done Right
Nnamdi Asomugha opted for a sharply tailored neutral suit. The collarless jacket gives the look a contemporary edge, and the brooch adds a touch of personality. It is simple and very well executed.
Old Hollywood Sparkle
Olandria Carthen wore Sergio Hudson Resort 2026, delivering classic glamour in a gold sequinned gown with a plunging neckline. The fitted silhouette and shimmering fabric made this look red carpet-ready, glamorous, and beautifully styled.
Crisp White Precision
Ryan Destiny wore Givenchy Spring 2026, choosing a sculptural white dress with dramatic sleeves. The clean palette allows the structure to do all the talking, while the look was completed with white pumps, which are a Law Roach favourite shoe choice.
Elegant Pastel Moment
Sheryl Lee Ralph wore Sergio Hudson Spring 2025, embracing a soft Spring pastel palette with a fitted knit top and textured skirt. It is polished, sophisticated, and perfectly in line with the luncheon mood of the event.
Relaxed Tailoring
Tyriq Withers continued his relaxed-tailoring-in-soft-neutrals theme this week, serving up a modern, understated mood in this slightly boxy silhouette. It is simple, unfussy menswear that relies on proportion, and the result feels effortless and contemporary.
Pearls And Texture
I love how Wunmi Mosaku’s Hertunba pearl-embellished gown features a peplum trimmed with soft fringe that cradles her baby bump, adding a playful touch to the silhouette. Her natural hair, styled in soft puffs, adds personality, and her maternity style remains consistently impressive.
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