And since such an event was undoubtedly going to bring a whole host of incredible people from all walks of life, we couldn’t resist making an appearance too. We sent Shaquille Dunbar with his keen eye and camera to capture the best styles from the weekend and the crowd did not disappoint. Click through the gallery above to view all the looks or scroll down for our favorite styles from the whole weekend. Who knows, you might even find your next go-to ‘do!
Our 5 Fave Looks From ESSENCE Festival
Bronze Headscarf
Whether you’re avoiding the humidity, in the middle of transitioning, or you just love a great hair accessory, a headscarf is here to fulfill both your protective and styling needs, all in one. This shimmering number from a very stylish attendee caught our eye for obvious reasons and was perfectly paired with her golden eye accessories.
Balayage braids
We love box braids on any given day but these ones were made even more beautiful with the addition of a soft toffee balayage. Pulled up into a half-updo and tied with a patterned scarf, this look is both carefree and utterly chic. Editor’s tip: Box braids still need some loving, so keep yours feeling soft a spritz of the TRESemmé Botanique Nourish & Replenish Leave-In Hydrating Mist.
Gray Crop
We’re firm believers that being yourself is the most beautiful thing. And when we spotted this vibrant lady wholly embracing her strands we couldn’t help but snap a shot. This isn’t going gray gracefully, this is going gray with fierce style.
Volumized curls
The only thing we love more than curls are curls with tons of va-va-volume. These coils have been prepped and defined, giving them a beautiful shape and pattern. Editor’s tip: To keep your natural hair soft, smooth and moisturized, try using the Suave Nourish & Strengthen Leave-In Conditioner before or after your style your hair.
Accessorizes updo
We’ve seen box braids worn out and proud but we couldn’t take our eyes off of this braided updo. With varying sizes of braids woven throughout the look and wrapped into an impressive updo, everything about this style screams elegance – especially with the braids being punctuated with hair cuffs for extra ‘pop’.
