Essence Festival of Culture is happening July 3-5. Don’t miss out—tickets here.
As the ESSENCE editors prepare to work their magic behind the scenes at the ESSENCE Festival of Culture, one thing is certain: the outfits have to be just as impactful as the moments they help create. From interviewing your favorite stars to moderating thought-provoking panels and covering unforgettable performances, our editors are constantly on the move—all while navigating the New Orleans heat.
Though Festival season is familiar territory, every year brings something new. A fresh lineup of talent, exciting conversations, and a unique energy throughout the city often inspire a different approach to getting dressed. While staying cool is always a priority, personal style, packed schedules, and the events on each editor’s calendar help shape what makes it into their Festival wardrobe.
Whether it’s breezy dresses, statement separates, or comfortable yet polished essentials, our team knows how to balance fashion and function. Scroll ahead for style inspiration straight from the ESSENCE staff as they get ready for Festival weekend.
Akili King, Senior Beauty and Fashion Editor
Anima Iris The Honeysuckle Baguette
First on my wish list for EFOC this year is Anima Iris’ Honeysuckle Baguette bag. I feel like EFOC weekend is all about having fun with color and accessories, and showing off your personality that way. That said, I feel this bag embodies the spirit and the joy of the weekend. Lastly, it’s a Black-owned company, and EFOC weekend (and always, of course) is the perfect time to celebrate the designers leading the culture.
Anima Iris
$490
Fe Noel Sundance Slip Dress
Secondly, I am loving this Fe Noel slip dress. I could see myself wearing this on one of my panels or for a night out on the town in the NOLA streets. It’s vibrant and breathable, which are necessities for the weekend.
Fe Noel
$488
Brother Vellies Bike Shoe in Gold
I have my eye on these shoes for a panel as well. I feel like the gold will pop nicely on my tanned skin. And will be a nice pop, complementing other accessories while on stage.
Brother Vellies
$495
India Espy-Jones, Beauty Writer
Vibram V-Soul
I can’t lie: I’m in deep on the toe shoe craze. I made the big mistake of wearing heels to EFOC last year, but now I have the Vibram V-Soul at the top of my wishlist. I thought they were sold out everywhere! That was, until I found my size on clearance at Walmart (next to tons of other styles.) They’re my most walkable and affordable shoe!
Walmart
$90
Tank Air System Tank
You really can’t go wrong with a tank top in New Orleans. But, this isn’t just any old tank top. It’s the sexiest, most breathable, yet curve-snatching tank top I’ve ever seen. It’s the type of tank top you don’t have to replace every season. Best of all, it comes in a milk white color, which is perfect for a sweat-free White Party on Sunday.
Tank Air
$75
Breanna Hall, Visuals Director
Artless Forever Haze Tank
The absolute perfect staple tank, I’ve bought 2 already. The racer back style and the rounded hem falls so nicely on all body types and its light weight and easy to pair with anything. I’ve been wearing it with linen pants, jeans etc and will be on my rotation all summer and in my bag for the festival.
Artless Forever
$78
Olivia Hearst Nadia Kaftan
The fabric is everything! It’s so soft and lightweight. It’s also super versatile, it has snaps at the chest, and on the slits at the legs for a more flow or conservative fit – easy to dress up or down!
Olivia Hurst
$315
Mecca Pryor, Style Writer
Citizens of Humanity Court Short
This crisp white pair of jorts from Citizens of Humanity strikes the perfect balance between comfort and style, making them an ideal choice for long days spent navigating the convention center.
Citizens of Humanity
$218
Aritizia Whimsy Lace Shorts
I’ve been obsessed with lace and silk combinations for the summer time, it is not only sexy but chic and the perfect fabric for hot temperatures. These shorts will effortlessly carry you from day to night at ESSENCE Festival.
Aritzia
$98
Read the original article on Essence.










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