As the curtains fell on the 2024 ESSENCE Festival of Culture in New Orleans, the fashion and natural hairstyles displayed left an indelible mark on attendees. The event not only celebrated Black culture but also emphasized sustainability in fashion, showcasing designs from Black-owned brands committed to eco-friendly practices.
AfroPunk’s green runway and texture on the runway
The AfroPunk’s Green Runway was a platform for Black designers who integrate sustainability into their fashion lines. Curated by Haitian designer Amiraa Vainqueur, the showcase featured brands like Atelier Ndigo, which offers made-to-order pieces to avoid mass production waste. Similarly, Zevelyn Jean uses dead stock fabrics, promoting recycling in the fashion industry.
Alongside fashion, the Naturally Curly’s Texture on the Runway event spotlighted natural hair, celebrating the beauty and versatility of Black hair textures through innovative styling by renowned stylists such as Dhairius Thomas and Michelle O’Connor.
Innovative designs and sustainable practices
Each designer brought unique elements to the runway. For instance, Futura by Dionne focuses on microfiber garments made to order, reducing excess production. House of Chelsea B, founded by Chicago native Chelsea Billingsley, champions handmade, crochet styles that challenge conventional fashion narratives.
Maison Veemode, represented by Vainqueur herself, stood out with its ethically sourced fabrics and tailored re-designs, proving that style and sustainability can coexist beautifully.
Empowering Black creativity
The festival not only showcased fashion but also served as a beacon of inspiration and empowerment for the Black community. It highlighted the importance of supporting Black-owned businesses and embracing eco-friendly practices, paving the way for a sustainable future in fashion.
As we look forward to future festivals, the fusion of culture, creativity, and sustainability seen at ESSENCE Festival 2024 continues to resonate, inspiring new generations to innovate and uplift the community.
