Hollywood’s biggest “It Girls” arrived on Thursday at the ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood to celebrate Black women trailblazing in the entertainment industry.
Black women are known to push the culture forward in all aspects, including fashion. When setting the latest trends or reviving old ones, Black women determine what is in style. Fashion has no boundaries or limits. The possibilities that blossom from the collaboration of different dynamic designs, bold colors and eccentric shapes defy tradition.
Fashion is a component of visual storytelling that has the power to attract attention nationwide and globally. From raising awareness about political issues to revolutionizing traditional social standards, there is more to fashion than just wearing pieces of clothing items.
At ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood, the ladies who strutted down the carpet in their fierce fits dared to make a fashion statement. Find out who made the best-dressed list, as we give credit where credit is due.
Normani
Normani graced the carpet and flaunted a short, all-black, one-piece buttoned ensemble. One side of the unique design extended down her leg while the other stopped at her thigh. Paired with sheer tights and silver jewelry, she succeeded in elevating a simple look.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 07: Normani attends the ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Awards at Academy Museum of Motion Pictures on March 07, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Monica Schipper/Getty Images)
Zendaya
Corsets remain a fashion staple since its resurgence nearly five years ago. Zendaya sported a silver patterned corset with cuffed jeans and classic white heels. She added flair to the structured style with a circle chain belt and chunky jewelry.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 07: Zendaya attends the ESSENCE Black Women In Hollywood Awards at Academy Museum of Motion Pictures on March 07, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Aliah Anderson/WireImage)
Shannon Thornton
All eyes were on Shannon Thornton as she strutted down the carpet. The P-Valley star wore a stunning purple gown that accentuated her curvy silhouette. The gown featured a three-dimensional design on top, with silver detailing embedded throughout.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 07: Shannon Thornton attends the ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Awards at Academy Museum of Motion Pictures on March 07, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Monica Schipper/Getty Images)
Halle Bailey
Elegance illuminated by Halle Bailey and her flowy, two-toned cut-out dress. There was even an added twist of a criss cross neckline. The “Women in Hollywood” honoree smiled from ear to ear as she effortlessly slayed in different shades of pink to accept her award.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 07: Halle Bailey attends the 2024 ESSENCE Black Women In Hollywood Awards Ceremony at Academy Museum of Motion Pictures on March 07, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for ESSENCE)
Chloe Bailey
Chloe Bailey rocked an all-white two-piece outfit as she remained side-by-side with her sister. The R&B singer tapped into her femininity with her cut-out slits of the long-length turtleneck. She paired the top with chic cargo pants for tomboy-ish flair.
Chloe Bailey at Essence Black Women in Hollywood held at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures on March 7, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images)
Marsai Martin
Marsai Martin made her presence known with this vibrant look. The purple feathers added dimension to this lime green look that guaranteed turned heads as she walked the carpet.
Marsai Martin at Essence Black Women in Hollywood held at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures on March 7, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images)
Kheris Rogers
Kheris Rogers stole the show with her beautiful African-print gown. Throughout the gorgeous garment, patterns resembling the faces of Black women were embroidered. Her look was a physical manifestation of Black Girl Magic.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 07: Kheris Rogers attends the 2024 ESSENCE Black Women In Hollywood Awards Ceremony at Academy Museum of Motion Pictures on March 07, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Arnold Turner/Getty Images for ESSENCE)
MJ Rodriguez
Leather will always be a go-to fashion piece for any event. MJ Rodriguez proved that statement true by showing up in leather from head to toe. She complimented her all-black combo with a mini dress and a trench coat. She finished the look with a pair of red bottoms to add a pop of color.
Michaela Jaé Rodriguez at Essence Black Women in Hollywood held at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures on March 7, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images)
Gail Bean
Gail Bean wore a bright, neon dress with a floral cut across the chest. Made by black-owned designer Atelier Ndigo, the actress beamed as she made the carpet her runway.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 07: Gail Bean attends the ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Awards at Academy Museum of Motion Pictures on March 07, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by JC Olivera/GA/The Hollywood Reporter via Getty Images)
Letitia Wright
One can never go wrong with a fashionable suit. Dressed in an olive green outfit, Letitia Wright added personality to the striking set by wearing heels with beads on its strap. She adorned gold accents through her hair accessories that were weaved into her cornrows.
Letitia Wright at Essence Black Women in Hollywood held at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures on March 7, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images)