Every year, the Essence Festival brings together some of the biggest names in entertainment to the vibrant city of New Orleans for a weekend of celebration and revelry. This iconic event, held near the July 4 holiday, is a true testament to the rich and diverse culture of Black music and art. With nightly concerts at the Superdome featuring legendary performers like Prince, Janet Jackson, and Usher, as well as a jam-packed schedule of events during the day, the Essence Festival is a must-attend for music lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. And let’s not forget about the fashion! The festival is also known for its star-studded fashion moments, with celebrities donning their best summer-ready outfits for the occasion.
One of the most impressive things about the Essence Festival is how artists manage to stay stylish and comfortable in the scorching temperatures and high humidity of New Orleans. From cutouts to micro minis, there are plenty of warm-weather-friendly trends on display. But practicality doesn’t mean sacrificing style. Embellished one-shoulder dresses, polished skirt suits, and colorful rompers are also popular choices among the fashion-forward crowd at the festival. And when it comes to the concerts, artists are not afraid to push the boundaries and make a statement with their bold and theatrical looks.
The 2025 Essence Festival was no exception when it came to fashion. Keke Palmer took the stage in a stunning cutout sequin bra and black capri pants while performing a cover of Brandy’s hit song “Sitting Up In My Room.” Ari Lennox wowed the crowd at her Super Lounge concert in a pink halter romper with ruffle shorts. And gymnast Jordan Chiles turned heads at the Black Excellence Brunch in a printed minidress that showed off her chest tattoo.
But it’s not just the performances that showcase incredible fashion at the Essence Festival. The red carpet is also a major highlight of the event, with celebrities bringing their A-game and serving up some serious style inspiration. From the stage to the red carpet, here are some of the best celebrity looks from the 2025 Essence Festival (and years prior).
Keke Palmer’s performance outfit was a definite showstopper. The singer and actress looked fierce in a cutout sequin bra and black capri pants, proving that she can rock any look with confidence and style. The bold and edgy ensemble perfectly captured the spirit of the festival and had everyone talking.
Ari Lennox’s pink halter romper was a breath of fresh air at the Super Lounge concert. The R&B singer looked stunning in the playful and feminine outfit, which featured ruffle shorts and a halter neckline. The pop of color was a welcome addition to the festival’s fashion scene and showed that sometimes less is more when it comes to making a statement.
Gymnast Jordan Chiles may be known for her incredible skills on the mat, but she also knows how to make a fashion statement. At the Black Excellence Brunch, she turned heads in a printed minidress that showcased her unique sense of style. The dress, which featured a bold and colorful print, was the perfect choice for the brunch event and showed off her fun and playful personality.
But the fashion at the Essence Festival is not just limited to the performers. The red carpet is also a major highlight of the event, with celebrities bringing their fashion A-game. From bold and daring looks to elegant and sophisticated ensembles, the red carpet at the Essence Festival is a true fashion lover’s dream.
In previous years, we have seen some unforgettable red carpet moments at the Essence Festival. In 2014, Beyoncé stole the show in a stunning white jumpsuit with a plunging neckline and dramatic cape. In 2022, Rihanna turned heads in a sheer black dress with intricate beading and a thigh-high slit. And in 2024, Zendaya wowed in a bold and colorful pantsuit with a matching head wrap.
The Essence Festival is not just about music and fashion, it’s also a celebration of Black culture and community. The event features a variety of events and activities during the day, including a Disney Parks brunch and a SheaMoisture day party. These events not only provide entertainment but also serve as a platform for Black-owned businesses and brands to showcase their products and services.
In conclusion, the Essence Festival is more than just a music festival, it’s a cultural phenomenon that celebrates Black
