ESSENCE Fashion House brought together the most legendary names in fashion for fruitful conversations that had us all wanting more. Throughout the evening, they honored the trailblazers who paved the way for today’s trends, including icons like Dapper Dan and Misa Hylton, and Eva Marcille. Attendees had the opportunity to absorb valuable insights and engage with the immersive experiences offered downstairs.
The day began with a conversation featuring your favorite stylist’s favorite stylist, Misa Hylton, titled, The Authenticity Code: Navigating Authenticity in the Luxury Market,” moderated by VP of Content Nandi Howard. Hylton recently launched the Misa Hylton Fashion Academy, which focuses on empowering the youth and helping them break into the fashion industry, reflecting her newfound passion for giving back.
“Take every job that you have very seriously because it is a stepping stone,” Hylton told attendees. “I don’t care if you feel like you are not where you want to be, you are learning something that you are going to need later. Even if it is to know how to one day run your company.”
Followed by a cute kiki between Edvin Thompson, founder of Theophilio, and Barkue Tubman, Chief of Staff and Diaspora Engagement at Essence Ventures, titled “Unveiling Your Authenticity: Crafting Your Personal Brand Narrative.” Followed by Fashion’s Next Generation, presented by McDonald’s Black and Positively Golden, and a content creation workshop led by Donye Taylor in partnership with SmartWater.”
While panels took place back-to-back in the main room downstairs, guests indulged in music, Jack Daniel’s cocktails, and McDonald’s bites and relaxed in the cozy Coke and Smartwater lounges during breaks between sessions.
Guests eagerly anticipated the evening’s keynote conversation featuring rapper Ferg, fashion icon Dapper Dan, Caroline Wanga, CEO of Essence, and Kory Jarvis, Head of Social at Essence. During this conversation, they heavily reflected on the past and how influences like Ferg’s father influenced his sense of style while also paying homage to Dapper Dan and how he changed the luxury fashion landscape forever.