I won’t be going to Essence Fest this year!
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.
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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
African fashion is once again taking center stage in Paris.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Africa Now is open through July 8, 2026, at Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann, located at 40 Boulevard Haussmann in Paris.
Photo Credit: Africa Now / Galeries Lafayette/Henry Boadu
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:
In no particular order…
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 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 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.
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 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 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 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 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
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 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 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 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.
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.”
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
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.
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.
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.
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. 💣
To have me wear your brand to an upcoming event, email book@clairesulmers.com.
Photo Credit: @iamtishhabrenee
North West is not here to blend in.
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.
Blue Ivy Carter is growing up — and her style is keeping pace.
Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s daughter was recently spotted stepping out in New York City in a laid-back but considered street style moment. She wore a Fear of God Essentials MLB New York Yankees hoodie in heather grey, paired with $190 Jaded London LDN Mud XL Colossus Jeans — the oversized, distressed denim style featuring the brand’s signature “LDN” print across the thigh.
She accessorized with a blue crossbody bag, gold hoop earrings, stacked rings, and classic square-frame glasses, finishing the look with black sneakers.
The outing comes as Blue Ivy continues to step further into the public eye, having already made her mark on the entertainment industry with a Grammy Award and a starring role in her mother’s Renaissance World Tour film. At just 13 years old, she is quickly establishing her own fashion identity — one that leans into relaxed, urban streetwear with an effortless cool that feels entirely her own.
Photo Credit: @therealnicoleeeeee
Zendaya is on press tour, and her fashion game is fully activated.
As she makes her way across Europe promoting Spider-Man: Brand New Day, the actress and style icon has been delivering one considered look after another, with stylist Law Roach orchestrating every move.
Rome: Giorgio Armani SS1990
At the Rome evening photocall, Zendaya arrived in a gown from Giorgio Armani’s Spring/Summer 1990 collection — a sheer, beaded piece featuring an intricate spiderweb pattern that served as a nod to the film itself. Paired with Tiffany & Co. jewelry and her signature finger-wave updo, the look was equal parts archival fashion history and red carpet theater. Tom Holland joined her for the photocall.
Paris: Vintage Spider-Man T-Shirt
At the Paris photocall, Zendaya wore an oversized vintage Spider-Man t-shirt as a dress, styled with white Christian Louboutin pumps. The ease and confidence with which she pulled off the look — dressed down in concept but executed with precision — was a testament to her singular ability to make anything feel intentional. Nabbed for only $34.99 on Ebay, her stylist Law Roach offered, “Style doesn’t always have to cost a fortune.” Indeed.
London: John Galliano SS1997 The Circus Collection
For the London photocall, Zendaya reached further into the archives, wearing a look from John Galliano’s iconic Spring/Summer 1997 Circus Collection, accessorized with Fope 1929 jewels. Galliano’s Circus collection remains one of the most celebrated runway moments of the 1990s, and seeing it resurface on a major press tour in 2026 underscored both Law Roach’s deep knowledge of fashion history and Zendaya’s rare ability to carry archival pieces with authority.
Spider-Man: Brand New Day hits theaters July 29.
Which look was your favorite?
Many people assume an engagement ring must use expensive metals to look elegant. That is not always true. Sterling silver offers a bright appearance that closely resembles white gold and platinum. Its clean finish makes it a favorite choice for couples seeking beauty and practicality.
Modern jewelry designers have expanded the possibilities of sterling silver. Today, buyers can find everything from classic solitaire rings to detailed fantasy inspired jewelry designs. This variety allows shoppers to choose a ring that reflects their personality while maintaining a refined appearance.
Sterling silver contains a high percentage of pure silver combined with other metals for strength. This balance helps create jewelry that is attractive and suitable for regular wear. The material also works well with many gemstone styles and settings.
Its versatility appeals to a wide audience. Whether someone prefers minimalist rings or decorative pieces, sterling silver can support many design directions. That flexibility continues to attract engagement ring buyers.
One reason sterling silver engagement rings remain popular is their bright and polished appearance. The metal reflects light well and creates a sophisticated look. When paired with quality craftsmanship, sterling silver can appear far more expensive than many people expect.
Design details also play a major role. Fine settings, balanced proportions, and carefully selected stones contribute to an elevated appearance. Small details often create the biggest visual impact.
The gemstone can influence the overall look of the ring. Clear stones, colored gemstones, and nature inspired gems each create a different effect. Choosing the right stone helps create a ring that feels personal.
Many buyers prefer gemstones that add character without overwhelming the design. Sterling silver provides an excellent backdrop for both subtle and bold choices.
Classic solitaire rings remain a timeless option. Their simple structure allows the center stone to receive full attention. This style works particularly well for people who prefer clean and elegant jewelry.
Halo settings are another popular choice. Surrounding the center stone with smaller stones creates additional sparkle and visual presence. This design can make a ring appear more elaborate while maintaining balance.
Vintage inspired rings continue attracting attention because of their detailed craftsmanship. Engraved patterns and decorative settings add character to the design. These features create a sense of individuality.
Sterling silver complements vintage aesthetics particularly well. The bright finish highlights intricate details and decorative elements.
Fantasy inspired jewelry has become increasingly popular among buyers looking for something distinctive. Many designs draw inspiration from nature, mythology, celestial themes, and storybook imagery. These influences help create engagement rings that feel personal and memorable.
Leaf motifs, moon details, and flowing patterns are common examples. Such elements provide artistic appeal without sacrificing elegance. Many couples appreciate jewelry that tells a story through design.
Nature remains one of the strongest influences in fantasy themed jewelry. Designs featuring vines, branches, flowers, and forest inspired patterns create a unique visual identity. These details often feel romantic and timeless.
When crafted in sterling silver, natural motifs become even more noticeable. The metal’s reflective surface helps showcase fine artistic details.
Certain gemstones pair exceptionally well with sterling silver. Moissanite, sapphire, moss agate, moonstone, and clear quartz are frequently chosen for engagement rings. Each stone offers a different visual effect.
Some buyers prefer brilliant sparkle, while others value unique patterns and colors. Sterling silver supports a wide variety of gemstone choices without overpowering them.
Colored gemstones allow couples to move beyond traditional options. Blue, green, and white stones can each create a distinctive look. These colors often stand out beautifully against the silver setting.
The result is a ring that feels personal rather than conventional. Many people appreciate having something that reflects their individual taste.
Ring design is important, but comfort should not be overlooked. A ring should feel secure and pleasant to wear throughout the day. Features such as band width and setting height can affect comfort.
Craftsmanship also deserves close attention. Well made rings typically have smooth finishes, secure settings, and balanced construction. These details contribute to both appearance and wearability.
Daily activities should influence ring selection. People with active lifestyles may prefer lower profile settings that reduce the chance of accidental contact. Practical choices often help preserve the ring’s appearance.
Considering long term wear helps buyers make informed decisions. A ring should fit both personal style and everyday habits.
Like many precious metals, sterling silver benefits from regular care. Gentle cleaning helps remove oils and residue that accumulate through normal wear. A soft cloth and mild cleaning methods are usually sufficient.
Proper storage also plays an important role. Keeping jewelry in a dry environment can help maintain its appearance. Simple care routines often keep rings looking attractive for a long time.
Many people expose jewelry to harsh chemicals without realizing the effects. Household cleaners, swimming pools, and certain beauty products can affect metal finishes. Removing rings during these activities can be beneficial.
Routine inspections are also useful. Checking settings occasionally helps ensure gemstones remain secure.
Engagement rings represent personal commitment and individual style. Many couples now focus on meaningful design rather than traditional expectations. Sterling silver supports this shift by offering flexibility and beauty.
The metal works equally well with classic and artistic designs. Whether someone prefers simple elegance or fantasy inspired jewelry, sterling silver provides a strong foundation. Its adaptability continues to make it a preferred option among modern buyers.
The best engagement ring is one that reflects the people wearing it. Design, gemstone choice, and symbolic details all contribute to that connection. Personal meaning often matters more than trends.
Taking time to explore different styles can lead to a more satisfying choice. A carefully selected ring becomes part of a lasting story.
Yes. Sterling silver is suitable for regular wear when properly cared for and maintained.
Many do. Quality craftsmanship and thoughtful design can create a luxurious appearance.
Popular choices include moissanite, sapphire, moss agate, moonstone, and clear quartz.
Yes. Many couples choose fantasy themed designs because they feel unique and personal.
Clean it regularly with a soft cloth and store it in a dry place when not in use.
