The 2026 ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Awards brought together some of the most influential women in entertainment, and presented many memorable fashion moments on the red carpet. From sculptural flowers and glittering metallic gowns to modern tailoring, the annual luncheon once again proved to be a showcase of extraordinary style.
To determine the Top 5 Best Dresses, we looked at feedback from readers and followers – ranking the looks based on the number of likes each received on our social platforms.
Here are the five looks that were most liked
zendaya in cash
Zendaya wore a white vintage-inspired Cachet mini dress featuring ruched draping, a thigh-high slit and a dramatic floral embellishment in white and gold at the bottom of the bodice. This dress has a notable fashion history – famously worn by Carrie Bradshaw (Sarah Jessica Parker) in Sex and the City: The Movie in 2008, and it is a replica version of the original Eugene Alexander dress worn by Whitney Houston on the cover of LIFE magazine in 1987.
Styled by Law Roach, the look was paired with pointed white Christian Louboutin pumps and a short curly hairstyle, which kept the focus on the sculptural floral details.
Olandria in Sergio Hudson
Olandria wore a gold Sergio Hudson Resort 2026 sequined gown, which featured long sleeves and a plunging neckline. The fitted column silhouette emphasized the shiny metallic texture of the dress, creating a sleek and streamlined red carpet look. This look was styled by The Riesmans.
girl in fancy club
Chelli wore a cream fancy club halter dress, which featured a deep plunge neckline and a structured corset bodice that transitioned into a voluminous skirt silhouette. The tailored construction balanced soft volume with sculptural structure, creating a modern red carpet look. She paired the dress with white point-toe pumps and delicate jewelry.
Zinzi Coogler in Donna Karan
Zinzi Coogler attended the luncheon with her husband, filmmaker Ryan Coogler, wearing a champagne Donna Karan sequin column gown. The sleeveless silhouette featured subtle flare and soft draping on the bodice, creating a simple yet elegant look for a daytime event.
Ryan Destiny in Givenchy
Ryan Destiny stepped out in a white Givenchy shirt-style dress, which featured an off-the-shoulder neckline, voluminous sleeves and a belted waist. The high slit and structured tailoring balanced classic shirting with modern red carpet silhouettes.
Scroll through for more notable looks from the event.
Whose favorite look was yours at the event?
Images: Getty
