Top 5 Moments from Essence Fest 2026: Michelle Obama in Proenza Schouler, Brandy in Red Jovana Louis, Cardi B’s Performance Looks, and more!

Today is the final day of Essence Fest, 2026!

9898 Top 5 Moments From Essence Fest 2026 Michelle Obama In Proenza Schouler Patti Labelle In Carolina Herrera And Cardi Bs Performance Looks

While I personally wasn’t there, Fashion Bomb Daily had reporters on the ground to report on stylish moments. Take a look at some highlights!

1.Cardi B on Night One

Cardi B kicked off night 1 in a series of wow worthy looks.

She always knows how to slay!

2. Michelle Obama in Proenza Schouler

For her highly anticipated appearance at Essence Festival, Michelle Obama took the stage in a black sleeveless Proenza Schouler midi dress featuring dramatic feather and eyelet embellishment cascading down the skirt, paired with black pointed-toe pumps. Styled by Thomas Christos, the former First Lady looked polished and powerful as she engaged with Keke Palmer and the crowd, generating one of the most talked-about fashion moments of the weekend.

3.Brandy in Jovana Louis

Brandy made a regal statement while accepting the Legend Award at the ESSENCE Women in Music event.

The singer wore a striking custom red gown by Jovana Louis, complete with a matching pillbox hat and opera gloves, creating a bold monochromatic look. Styled by Ashley Sean Thomas, Brandy’s ensemble was a sophisticated nod to timeless glamour and one of the standout fashion moments of ESSENCE Festival.

4.Tisha Campbell in H&M

Tisha Campbell joined Bevy Smith in conversation at Bevy’s annual H&M brunch, where she and her son coordinated in stylish H&M looks. The actress looked radiant in an all-white ensemble as the pair made a fashionable appearance together.

5. Normani and Ryan Destiny Backstage

Fashion Bomb Daily caught up with Normani and Ryan Destiny backstage at Essence Festival, where the longtime friends opened up about navigating the industry together and detailed their patriotic Fourth of July looks. Normani stepped out in Dsquared2, turning heads with a festive yet fashion-forward ensemble. The pair’s candid conversation offered a refreshing glimpse into what it looks like to build and sustain a genuine friendship in Hollywood.

What was your favorite moment from Essence Fest? Let us know below!

*We need to take a special moment for Ms. Patti Labelle, who said she loves fashion, and never leaves home in jogging pants or jeans.

We love an elegant queen!

Videos: @FreshMadeit/ Ashley Dunn/OhBrezzy/Essence

Are You at ESSENCE Fest? Shop Upper Atmosphere at We Love Us Marketplace Today!

Fashion lovers attending ESSENCE Festival this year have a new destination on their list: Upper Atmosphere, one of the standout fashion booths inside the We Love Us Marketplace.

Are You At ESSENCE Fest Shop Upper Atmosphere At We Love Us Marketplace Today

The multi-brand shopping experience brings together premium designers, luxury labels, and Black emerging designers under one roof, offering trend-driven fashion alongside plus-size styles for both women and men. The curation reflects a growing demand for retail spaces that celebrate diversity in both design talent and body representation.

Shoppers can expect everything from statement pieces to everyday essentials, giving festival-goers the chance to elevate their wardrobe while discovering new names in the industry. Whether searching for a bold festival look or investing in a timeless designer find, the booth has positioned itself as a central style stop for the weekend.

Guests who mention Fashion Bomb Daily at the booth will receive a complimentary gift with their purchase, while supplies last.

Upper Atmosphere can be found at the We Love Us Marketplace at the ESSENCE Festival of Culture.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Upper Atmosphere

Ciara, Teyana Taylor, Jay-Z, Alicia Keys, and More Live it Up at Michael Rubin’s Annual White Party

The stars were out in full force as Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin hosted his annual White Party in the Hamptons, one of the most exclusive celebrity gatherings of the summer.

As expected, the guest list was packed with music, sports, fashion, and entertainment’s biggest names, all embracing the evening’s signature all-white dress code.

2026 Lala Teyana Ciara Calicia Keys Ciara Teyana Taylor Jay Z Alicia Keys And More Live It Up At Michael Rubins Annual White Party

Ciara turned heads in a flirty white mini dress that highlighted her effortless glamour, while Teyana Taylor delivered another fashion-forward moment in a striking ensemble, accessorized by a Schiaparelli bag.

Dj Khaled Lenny S Jay Z Ciara Teyana Taylor Jay Z Alicia Keys And More Live It Up At Michael Rubins Annual White Party

The evening also attracted a who’s who of celebrities, including Dj Khaled, Lenny S, Jay Z, and more, making it one of the most talked-about events of the holiday weekend.

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Known for bringing together leaders across entertainment, business, sports, and culture, Michael Rubin’s annual White Party has become one of the season’s most coveted invitations. Beyond the glamorous fashion moments, the event serves as a unique networking opportunity where industry heavyweights gather in a relaxed setting to celebrate the start of summer.

Naturally, the fashion didn’t disappoint. Guests embraced everything from dramatic gowns and tailored suiting to breezy resort-inspired looks, all staying true to the evening’s elegant all-white theme.

Press play to see some of the best looks from Michael Rubin’s 2026 White Party. Whose ensemble gets your vote for best dressed?

Photo Credit: Instagram

Why I’m Not Going to Essence Fest: ClaireSulmers.SubStack.com

I won’t be going to Essence Fest this year!

8 Why Im Not Going To Essence Fest ClaireSulmersSubStackcom

It will be the first time in years that I won’t be making my annual trip to New Orleans to indulge in incredible food, attend countless events, and dance the night away at unforgettable concerts.

Read more and subscribe at ClaireSulmers.Substack.com.

Interview Highlights from the 2026 BET Awards: Ari Fletcher, Yung Miami, Eva Marcille, and More!

The 2026 BET Awards brought out some of the biggest names in entertainment, and Fashion Bomb Daily was on the scene capturing exclusive interviews with celebrities, influencers, and style stars. From Ari Fletcher and Yung Miami to Eva Marcille and more, our red carpet conversations covered fashion, career milestones, and what Fashion Bomb Daily means to the culture. Watch the highlights below and catch some of the best moments from an unforgettable weekend.

Yung Miami said that her dress was inspired by the Miami Sunset. She added that her song Spend Dat was, “For the hood. I’m so happy to see people having fun and enjoying themselves.”

Eva Marcille talked about her big chop and her cute Muehleder outfit.

Ari Fletcher gave us the rundown on her vintage Roberto Cavalli outfit and Jimmy Choo shoes.

Mya showcased her all black look because she said it was, “Clean, collected, classic, black. Black is beautiful and timeless.”

Chelley offered tips to Love Island future contestants.

Kordell and Serena offered a bit of relationship advice.

When asked about the state of female rap, Salt from Salt N Pepa said, “When we were coming up, there were way more of a variety of voices and things that were being expressed as women. There’s so much more to us. Lauryn Hill was the consciousness, Salt n Pepa was fun, fashion and femininity, Missy Elliott was the innovator, Queen Latifah was the Queen. As proud as I am that women are still doing their thing, I’d love for the pendulum to swing in the middle a little bit more. Get a little more voices that are being celebrated.” Agreed!

Monaleo was being rushed, but she had to stop by and show some love.

Kym Whitley said the key to longevity was being nice and willing to recreate yourself.

Last, but not least, we asked everyone what Fashion Bomb Daily means to them. Behold, some of our favorite responses from Dess Dior, Pretty Vee, Swaelee, and more:

Which interview was your fave?

Interview: Ashley Dunn

Africa Now Returns to Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann with a Showcase of Contemporary African Fashion: Open Now Until July 8th!

African fashion is once again taking center stage in Paris.

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Through July 8, Africa Now has returned to Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann for its second edition, transforming the iconic department store into a destination for contemporary African design. Located on the third floor beneath the landmark Coupole, the pop-up features a curated selection of ready-to-wear, handbags, jewelry, and accessories from 11 designers representing the richness, diversity, and innovation of fashion across the African continent.

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The opening celebration drew an impressive crowd of fashion insiders and tastemakers, including Grammy Award-winning artist Angélique Kidjo, international model Maria Borges, former Miss Côte d’Ivoire Olivia Yacé, Chioma Ikokwu, Tenicka B, and Candace Marie, underscoring the growing global interest in African fashion and its influence on luxury retail.

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This year’s edition was curated in collaboration with Adama Paris, CANEX x Tranoï, and Africa Fashion Up x Studio Ka, bringing together a dynamic mix of established labels and rising talent. Designers featured in the showcase include Adama Paris, Ibrahim Fernandez, Sisters of Afrika, Christie Brown, Late For Work, Judy Sanderson, We Are NBO, Vanhu Vamwe, Eric Raisina, Kwiyiah Style, and Talua.

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Angelique Kidjo
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Together, the collections highlight the breadth of African creativity, combining heritage craftsmanship with contemporary silhouettes, innovative textiles, and modern storytelling. The exhibition reflects the continued rise of African designers on the international fashion stage while offering Paris shoppers the opportunity to discover brands that are helping shape the future of global fashion.

5 Africa Now Returns To Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann With A Showcase Of Contemporary African Fashion
9 Africa Now Returns To Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann With A Showcase Of Contemporary African Fashion

Africa Now is open through July 8, 2026, at Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann, located at 40 Boulevard Haussmann in Paris.

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Photo Credit: Africa Now / Galeries Lafayette/Henry Boadu

Best Dressed at the 2026 BET Awards: Teyana Taylor, Olandria, Tems, and More Deliver Unforgettable Fashion Moments

The 2026 BET Awards delivered one of the most memorable red carpets in recent memory. From archival fashion moments to custom creations, the night was a masterclass in celebrity dressing. Read on for the most attention grabbing looks, based on your likes:

Best Dressed At The 2026 BET Awards Teyana Taylor Doechii Tems And More Deliver Unforgettable Fashion Moments Claire Sulmers 1

In no particular order…

Muni Long in Sergio Hudson

Muni Long made a statement in a pool blue Sergio Hudson Collection sequin gown that hugged every curve. She posed with her beau Akeem Ali, who seemed to love how she looked in it. Whether it was his stare or her style, the look was sleek, polished, and undeniably red carpet-ready.

Nia Long and Jafaar Jackson

Nia Long posed with Michael Movie co-star Jaafar Jackson wearing a simple brown slip gown by Kulson. Jaafar matched her fly in a flattering suit, which ensured they both served.

Queen Latifah in Kilian Kerner

Queen Latifah brought her signature regal energy to the carpet in a Kilian Kerner sculptural black textured coat,. The look was bold, architectural, and unmistakably hers — proof that decades into her career, the Queen still knows exactly how to command a carpet.

Eva Marcille in Muehleder

Eva Marcille debuted a new chic short blonde cut, which was the perfect accent to her bright green Muehleder mini dress. Gold bangles, long legs, and snake print lace up sandals secured her spot as one of the best dressed women of the night.

Latto in Lily Phellera

New mom Latto arrived in a sheer black corset gown by Lily Phellera, complete with a dramatic feather stole. The look was gothic, glamorous, and entirely her own. The snap back is on 10!

Marsai Martin in Salih Balta

Marsai Martin proved she’s all grown up in a Salih Balta FW26 RTW gown, featuring an off-shoulder black leather corset bodice and a sheer, ruched skirt with a dramatic train. The look was sultry and sophisticated, a fitting evolution for the actress and producer who continues to redefine her style on her own terms.

Olandria in Yellow Theophilio

Olandria was a vision in yellow Theophilio, the New York-based brand known for its vibrant, culturally rooted designs. The look felt fresh and joyful against the BET Awards backdrop. Ms. Carthen is always a slay!

Kayla Nicole in Sergio Hudson

Kayla Nicole brought effortless glamour to the carpet, proving once again why she’s become a fixture among the night’s best dressed. Her Sergio Hudson look balanced polish and sex appeal in equal measure, a combination that has become something of a signature for the model and media personality.

Tems in Brown Luis de Javier

Tems wore a custom brown Luis de Javier halter-neck gown featuring a dramatic feathered skirt that cascaded to the floor. The Nigerian superstar looked every inch the global fashion force she has become.

Teyana Taylor in Stephane Rolland Haute Couture

The night’s Icon Award recipient, Teyana Taylor, arrived in a burgundy Stephane Rolland SS 2026 Haute Couture ball gown with a dramatic sculpted ruffle skirt. It was one of the most talked-about looks of the evening — and rightfully so.

Claire Sulmers in Shadiat Alasooke

Claire Sulmers Shadiat Alasooke Bet Awards 2026

Fashion Bomb Daily founder and CEO Claire Sulmers wore a look by Nigerian designer Shadiat Alasooke, a choice that spoke to her longstanding commitment to celebrating Black designers on the world stage.

Doechii in Dsquared2

Doechii pulled from the archives in an archival brown Dsquared2 crochet cutout gown with a dramatic train. The look was daring, editorial, and perfectly on brand for one of music’s most fearless artists.

Janet Jackson in Tupac

Janet Jackson paid tribute to her late friend Tupac Shakur in a look that stopped the internet. It was one of the most emotionally resonant fashion moments of the night — a reminder that style, at its best, tells a story.

The 2026 BET Awards proved that Black excellence extends well beyond the stage. From archival pulls to custom couture, this year’s carpet was one for the books.

Who had your favorite look from the night?

Videos: Chastity Morgan

The Smith Family Steps Out in All-Black for Jaden Smith’s Christian Louboutin Event in Paris

The Smith family showed up and showed out.

Will Smith, Jada Pinkett Smith, and all of his children — Jaden, Willow, and Trey —and their granny Adrienne arrived in coordinated all-black looks to celebrate Jaden Smith’s Christian Louboutin event in Paris, and the family fashion moment did not go unnoticed.

The Smith Family Steps Out In All Black For Jaden Smiths Christian Louboutin Event In Paris

Will Smith was styled by @OfficialFawn in a Maison Margiela blazer, Dolce & Gabbana pants, a vintage brooch sourced from 1stDibs, a red Christian Louboutin bandana, and Christian Louboutin shoes, finished with Vintage Frames Company sunglasses.

Jada Pinkett Smith arrived in a custom look by Armine the Tailor — a strapless black dress paired with a bold gold collar necklace that instantly became the talking point of the evening. Comments on social media said it all: “That cuff necklace elevated that outfit to the 11th level.”

2 The Smith Family Steps Out In All Black For Jaden Smiths Christian Louboutin Event In Paris

Willow Smith kept it sleek in a black Jil Sander crop top and shorts, styled by Cristian B M, while Trey Smith rounded out the all-black family moment.

Together, the Smiths delivered a masterclass in coordinated dressing — understated yet powerful, with each look holding its own. Paris, consider yourselves on notice.

Photo Credit: @mohtohsoh / @officialfawn

Claire’s Life: Celebrating Sylvia Rhone with Mona Scott Young, Joey Harris, and More in a Red Althea Mink Leather Coat

Some nights you just have to stop and soak it all in.

BET Awards weekend kicked off with a beautifully curated evening honoring the legendary music executive Sylvia Rhone. Hosted by Monami Productions and Mona Scott-Young and supported by the Black Music Collective, the night was a love letter to Black music, culture, and the women who have shaped it.

8 2 Claire Sulmers Claires Life Celebrating Sylvia Rhone With Mona Scott Young Joey Harris And More In A Red Althea Mink Leather Coat

For those who may not know, Sylvia Rhone is one of the most powerful and trailblazing executives in the history of the music industry. As President of Epic Records, she has championed some of the biggest names in music, from Beyoncé to Travis Scott. A graduate of the Wharton School of Business, Rhone became the first Black woman to head a major record label when she was appointed CEO of EastWest Records in 1994 — a milestone that paved the way for generations of Black women in the music business. Her decades of service to the culture have been nothing short of historic, and an evening in her honor was long overdue.

Sylvia Rhone Headshot

The night featured remarks by none other than Missy Elliott, who credits Sylvia Rhone for her music career. Apparently Missy wanted to have her own label, but Rhone encouraged Missy to give her just one album–which turned into 5! The world is grateful for Sylvia Rhone indeed!

Performances by Stevie Wonder, Jozzy, and Terrell Music kept the night moving — and yes, when Stevie Wonder took the stage, the room felt every single note (even though he sang that he didn’t feel like singing).

For the occasion, I wore a red leather trench coat look by Althea Mink, styled with Norma Kamali shorts, red stockings, and Steve Madden heels — a full-red moment that felt right for a night this special. Makeup was by the Latrice Johnson, and hair was coiffed by Kalief W using Kendras Boutique Hair.

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9 2 Claire Sulmers Claires Life Celebrating Sylvia Rhone With Mona Scott Young Joey Harris And More In A Red Althea Mink Leather Coat

Nights like this are a reminder of why we do what we do. Here’s to Sylvia Rhone, to Black music, and to even more magic this BET Awards weekend. 💣

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With Joey Harris
4 2 Claire Sulmers Claires Life Celebrating Sylvia Rhone With Mona Scott Young Joey Harris And More In A Red Althea Mink Leather Coat
With Mona Scott Young and Prophet from Black Music Collective

To have me wear your brand to an upcoming event, email book@clairesulmers.com.

12 2 Claire Sulmers Claires Life Celebrating Sylvia Rhone With Mona Scott Young Joey Harris And More In A Red Althea Mink Leather Coat

Photo Credit: @iamtishhabrenee

North West Gives Main Character Energy at Vetements Show with Ice Blue Hair, Piercings, and All Black Gothic Look

North West is not here to blend in.

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Vendetta Daillly

The 11-year-old daughter of Kim Kardashian and Kanye West made a bold appearance at the Vetements show during Paris Men’s Fashion Week, arriving in a fully committed gothic look that turned heads inside and out.

North wore an oversized black Vetements logo long-sleeve top with gothic lettering across the chest, paired with a black pleated mini skirt and sheer black tights. She accessorized with spiked collar details at the neckline, studded cuffs, and statement earrings, finishing the look with dramatic chain-link knee-high boots. Her blue twin-tail pigtail wig and striking eye makeup — complete with bold liner and rhinestone accents — completed the head-to-toe aesthetic.

The young style star was also spotted alongside fellow show attendees, fully holding her own in one of fashion’s most avant-garde settings. At an age when most kids are still finding their footing, North West is already navigating the front rows of Paris Fashion Week with ease — and clearly on her own terms.

3 North West Gives Main Character Energy At Balenciaga Show With Ice Blue Hair Piercings And All Black Gothic Look
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