Progress

Essence Fashion House 2024: A Powerful Experience for Emerging Creators

During ESSENCE Fashion House 2024 event Misa Hylton stressed the significance of maintaining authenticity, in the world of high end fashion brands while Edwin Thompson from Theophilio and L’Enchanteur highlighted the value of embracing personal style uniqueness. Dapper Dan and FERG engaged in a conversation on how to strike a balance between creativity and the demands of success, during the event.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 06: (L-R) Shareef Mosby, Larissa Muehleder, Durrell Dupard, Nia Thomas, and Heart Roberts speak onstage during the 2024 ESSENCE Fashion House on September 06, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for ESSENCE Fashion House)

Attending the 2024 ESSENCE Fashion House was a inspiring experience, for me and the team, at Black Style Matters Magazine! The electrifying set by DJ David set the tone for a celebration of Black excellence and creativity that was truly unforgettable!

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 06: Eva Marcille speaks onstage during the 2024 ESSENCE Fashion House on September 06, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for ESSENCE Fashion House)

This years gathering was led by Eva Marcille with the theme "Luxury Undefined," delving into the realm of fashion and culture in a profound way. A significant moment, at the event was a discussion hosted by Misa Hylton; a stylist and designer known for her perspective on maintaining authenticity amidst the luxury industry's evolving landscape. Her focus on upholding values in the paced world of fashion struck a chord, with numerous attendees and resonated deeply with me as well.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 06: (L-R) Caroline Wanga, A$AP Ferg, Dapper Dan, and Kory Jarvis speak onstage during the 2024 ESSENCE Fashion House on September 06, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for ESSENCE Fashion House)

I was deeply impacted by a conversation hosted by Caroline Wanga from ESSENCE Ventures, alongside Dapper Dan and rapper FERG. They talked about the challenge of maintaining their integrity in the fashion industry while also meeting requirements. Listening to their stories reminded me how crucial it is to merge creativity, with business savvy.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 06: General atmosphere and decor at the 2024 ESSENCE Fashion House on September 06, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for ESSENCE Fashion House)

What caught my attention too was the marketplace called SOKO MRKT which highlighted up and coming Black owned brands such, as Kaphil, Tejahn Burnett. Freddie Estelle showcasing collections that truly embodied the essence of Black luxury living. Directly purchasing from these designers and interacting with the founders brought a depth to the occasion by emphasizing the significance of unity and backing business owners.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 06: Magazines on display at the 2024 ESSENCE Fashion House on September 06, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for ESSENCE Fashion House)

The gathering highlighted how luxury and creativity can blend harmoniously while emphasizing the role of artists, in influencing the fashion landscape. The ESSENCE Fashion House 2024 event transcended fashion display to become a tribute to culture and the essence of true Black artistry excellence. Check out insights about the event, at their official [ESSENCE Fashion House page.

Alana Oglesby - Black Style Matters Media Correspondent

The journey I went through strengthened my dedication to promoting fashion by not telling stories but also by establishing platforms, for ongoing conversations and appreciation in the fashion industry. It is a privilege, for Black Style Matters to have been involved in this experience.