Claude Russell Style:
The Blog

While business opportunities are important, one of the most powerful aspects of Essence Festival is the sense of community it creates.

Because years from now, when we talk about the evolution of female rap, we’re going to point back to that MSG stage and say: That’s when the game shifted—from competition to legacy, from moment to movement.

What makes Teyana Taylor particularly compelling in this role is her authenticity. Throughout her career, she has consistently celebrated Black artistry, Black style, and Black storytelling. Her work often draws inspiration from different eras of Black culture—from classic R&B aesthetics to modern street fashion and dance. That authenticity aligns perfectly with Essence Festival’s mission to celebrate and amplify Black voices.

What we wear communicates before we speak, establishes our presence before we move.

Andre Leon Talley, the first American-African editor-at-large at Vogue magazine has died at 73. He was a fashion icon, creative director,...