2026 ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood: Stunning Looks From Zendaya, Halle Bailey & More

A Night of Glamour and Celebration: ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood 2026

The annual ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood luncheon unfolded on March 12th, serving as a vibrant prelude to Sunday’s Oscars. This year’s event, held at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles, wasn’t just a pre-awards gathering; it was a powerful display of Black excellence, style, and community. From emerging talents to established icons, the luncheon provided a “safe space” for Black women in the industry as awards season reaches its peak, and the fashion did not disappoint.

Marsai Martin Sets the Tone

Hosting duties fell to the ever-stylish Marsai Martin, who made a statement in a beige short dress complete with a dramatic cape. The young actress, known for her roles in “Black-ish” and “Little,” consistently delivers on the red carpet, and this appearance was no exception. Martin’s presence underscored the event’s commitment to celebrating both established and rising stars.

A Goddess in Green: Halle Bailey’s Radiant Look

Halle Bailey, the breakout star of the live-action “The Little Mermaid,” graced the event in an olive green dress paired with a chic updo. Bailey’s look was a masterclass in understated elegance, highlighting her natural beauty and solidifying her status as a rising fashion icon. Her performance as Ariel earned her widespread acclaim and a Golden Globe nomination, and her presence at the luncheon signaled continued momentum as awards season progresses.

Dynamic Duos and Honorees: Teyana Taylor & Chase Infiniti

Teyana Taylor and Chase Infiniti arrived as a stylish duo, with Infiniti being honored at the event. The pair, who recently starred together in “One Battle After Another,” brought a palpable energy to the carpet, showcasing their individual flair and shared connection. Taylor, a multi-talented artist known for her music, acting, and directing, consistently pushes boundaries with her fashion choices, and this event was no different.

Chic Simplicity: Ryan Destiny’s Statement

Ryan Destiny turned heads in a deceptively simple white button-down dress, elevated by a daring high slit. The actress, known for her role in “Star,” demonstrated the power of minimalist style, proving that a classic silhouette can be incredibly impactful. Destiny’s look was a testament to her refined taste and ability to command attention with effortless grace.

Floral Flourishes and Radiant Glows: Coco Jones and Wunmi Mosaku

Coco Jones embraced spring with a floral dress, a look that felt fresh and vibrant. Jones, who recently gained widespread recognition for her role in the BET series “All the Way,” continues to establish herself as a rising star. Oscar-nominee Wunmi Mosaku, meanwhile, radiated a pregnancy glow in a stunning ensemble, adding to the celebratory atmosphere of the event. Mosaku’s nomination for her performance in “Landscape with Invisible Hand” has further cemented her position as a critically acclaimed actress.

Zendaya Channels Whitney Houston

Perhaps the most talked-about look of the night belonged to Zendaya. The actress and fashion icon paid homage to Whitney Houston with a floral, white dress and a striking short haircut. Social media quickly lit up with comparisons to Houston’s iconic style, and Zendaya’s look was widely praised for its elegance and reverence. Zendaya’s consistent ability to blend high fashion with meaningful tributes has made her a red carpet favorite.

Sequins and Style: Zinzi Coogler Honored

Zinzi Coogler, one of the event’s honorees, stunned in a sequin, cream-colored dress. Coogler, a producer known for her work on “Black Panther” and “Judas and the Black Messiah,” is a rising force in Hollywood, and her recognition at the luncheon underscored her contributions to the industry.

A Pastel Moment: Sheryl Lee Ralph’s Springtime Vibe

Sheryl Lee Ralph brought a touch of springtime to the event in a pastel pink ensemble. The Emmy-winning actress, known for her role in “Abbott Elementary,” continues to be a beacon of style and grace, proving that age is no barrier to fashion-forwardness.

Sterling K. Brown’s Wife Shines: Ryan Michelle Bathe’s Chic Arrival

Ryan Michelle Bathe arrived looking “chic and gorgeous,” turning heads alongside her husband, Sterling K. Brown. Bathe, an actress known for her roles in “Here’s Us” and “Boston Legal,” consistently delivers sophisticated style, and her appearance at the luncheon was no exception.

What’s Next for ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood?

The ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood luncheon serves as a crucial platform for celebrating Black women in the entertainment industry and fostering a sense of community. As the Oscars approach, the event provides a moment of solidarity and empowerment before the industry’s biggest night. The luncheon’s continued success highlights the importance of recognizing and supporting Black talent, both on and off screen. The event’s impact extends beyond the red carpet, inspiring future generations of Black women to pursue their dreams in Hollywood and beyond.