The 2026 ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Awards brought together some of the most influential women in the entertainment industry, and the red carpet showcased a variety of memorable fashion moments. From sculptural floral prints and shimmering metallic dresses to modern tailoring, the annual luncheon once again proved to be a standout style showcase.
To determine the Top 5 Best Dressed, we looked at responses from our readers and followers and ranked the looks based on the number of likes each received on social platforms.
Here are the five looks that resonated the most
Zendaya wore a white vintage-inspired Cash mini dress that featured ruched drapes, a thigh-high slit, and dramatic floral appliqués flowing down the white and gold bodice. The dress has a notable fashion history, famously being worn by Carrie Bradshaw (Sarah Jessica Parker) in the 2008 film Sex and the City: The Movie, but it is itself a reproduction version of the original Eugene Alexander dress worn by Whitney Houston on the cover of LIFE magazine in 1987.
The look, styled by Law Roach, was paired with pointy white Christian Louboutin pumps and a short, curly hairstyle that focused on sculptural floral details.
Hollandria wore a gold Sergio Hudson Resort 2026 sequined gown that featured long sleeves and a plunging neckline. The fitted column silhouette accentuated the shimmering metallic texture of the fabric, creating a sleek, streamlined red carpet look. This look was styled by The Reismans.
Cherry wore a cream-colored fancy club halter dress that featured a deep plunging neckline and structured corseted bodice that transitioned into a voluminous skirt silhouette. The tailored construction balances soft volumes with sculptural construction, creating a modern red carpet look. She paired the dress with white point-toe pumps and delicate jewelry.
Zinzi Coogler attended the luncheon with her husband, director Ryan Coogler, wearing a champagne Donna Karan sequin column dress. The sleeveless silhouette featured subtle sparkles and soft draping across the bodice, creating an understated yet elegant look for daytime events.
Ryan Destiny arrived wearing a white Givenchy shirt-style dress that featured an off-the-shoulder neckline, voluminous sleeves, and a belted waist. High slits and structured tailoring balance classic shirts with modern red carpet silhouettes.
Scroll through to see more notable looks from the event.
Who had your favorite look at the event?
Image: Getty
Source: Fashion Bomb Daily – fashionbombdaily.com
