Today is the last day of Essence Fest, 2026!
While I wasn’t there in person, Fashion Bomb Daily had reporters on the ground to report on the stylish moments. Take a look at some of the highlights!
1.cardi b on night one
Cardi B kicked off the first night with a series of stunning looks.
She always knows how to kill!
2. Michelle Obama in Proenza Schouler
For her highly anticipated appearance at the Essence Festival, Michelle Obama took the stage in a black sleeveless Proenza Schouler midi dress featuring dramatic feather and eyelet embellishments at the bottom of the skirt, paired with black pointed-toe pumps. Styled by Thomas Christos, the former first lady looked fabulous and powerful as she interacted with Keke Palmer and the crowd, one of the most talked-about fashion moments of the weekend.
3. Brandy at Jovana Lewis
Brandy made a royal statement while accepting the Legend Award at the ESSENCE Women in Music event.
The singer wore a striking custom red gown by Jovana Lewis, complete with matching pillbox hat and opera gloves, creating a bold monochromatic look. Styled by Ashley Sean Thomas, Brandy’s outfit was a sophisticated piece of timeless glamor and one of the standout fashion moments of the Essence Festival.
4. Tisha Campbell in H&M
Tisha Campbell joins Bevy Smith for conversation at Bevy’s annual H&M Brunch, where she and her son coordinated stylish H&M looks. The actress looked radiant in an all-white outfit and the couple looked fashionable 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 growing up in the industry together and detailed their patriotic Fourth of July looks. Normani stepped out in Dsquared2, and turned heads with a festive yet fashion-forward ensemble. The pair’s candid conversation offered a refreshing glimpse of what it’s like to make and maintain real friendships 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 the house wearing jogging pants or jeans.
We love a beautiful queen!
Video: @FreshMadeit/Ashley Dunn/OhBreezy/Essence