The annual ESSENCE Festival of Culture is not just a celebration of Black business, art and music, it’s a showcase for the impact and influence of Black culture. We’re the ones who set the trends and this is where it starts. Attendees take their outfits very seriously, as the halls of the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, floor of the Caesar’s Superdome and streets of New Orleans offer the most interesting fashion shows of the weekend. In case you didn’t get to head down to Louisiana this year, we’ve got a quick recap of the best street style from ESSENCE Fest 2024.
Do You
When it comes to ESSENCE Fest, the most important thing to remember is to be yourself. That’s how you’ll feel the most comfortable in your skin. Instagram user Tiffany M. Battle did that in a dress from Johanna Ortix, bag by Zara, necklace by Candid Art and bracelet from Sheila Gray.
Summer Ruffles
Summer is when you get the chance to let loose and have fun with your fashion. Instagram user fummiford did that in jeans from Citizens of Humanity, a top from Forever 21 and a bag from Balmain.
Natural Work
Don’t ever let anyone tell you that it’s easy to get a natural look. For Black women, being natural requires a little extra maintenance.
Fringe Forever
Fringe is never going out of style and we’re OK with that.
Chic Comfort
ESSENCE Fest is a marathon, not a sprint. That means comfort and style should work together to get you through the weekend.
Power Moves
There’s a lot of business networking at ESSENCE Fest, so you definitely want to bring your best power fits to the big event.
Bad Girl Pink
If you’re planning to have some bad girl fun at the Usher concert, you want to stand out in the crowd.
Colorful Crew
Summer in New Orleans with thousands of Black women celebrating us is the time to break out all your colors.
Classic Cool
As much as we love the high fashion, show-stopping pieces, there’s always something cool and timeless about the simplicity of a black top and jeans.
Hot Girl Celebration
If you’re going to see thee Hot Girl herself, Megan Thee Stallion, you better bring your best.
Fresh and Simple
What makes ESSENCE Fest work so well is that we get the full spectrum of Black style. There are those who go full runway ready at eight in the morning, and then there are those of us who just want to be cute and comfortable. Guess what? It all works.
Curls on Display
It is impossible to maintain curls this on point in New Orleans humidity, so props to Instagram user brittanydbradley for her stellar crown.
Geometric Beauty
You absolutely can never go wrong with an eye-catching geometric design.
Boot Up
Between the surprise storms and uneven sidewalks, boots are your best friend in New Orleans.
Make a Statement
If ever there’s a weekend where you can take chances and mix it up your looks, it’s ESSENCE Fest. Do not be afraid to make a statement and stand out.
Straight From 
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