During a year filled with unprecedented happenings, there still managed to be spotlights of joy that arguably held us together. Before we step into 2021, ESSENCE is rounding up some of the most read fashion stories of 2020. In the midst of this year, Black fashion was rightfully pushed into the spotlight from all verticals.
Over the last few months we’ve collectively seen funds and resources poured into our community in hopes to curate a well-balanced industry. In addition to the industry becoming further transparent more stories, creators, and content was able to reach even more eyes due to the push and search to specifically shop Black.
From curating specific list to support Black creatives like who to follow on instagram, male models, and handbags to exclusives from Beyonce and Peleton, there was a number os stories that ESSENCE Fashionistas couldn’t get enough of. In no specific order, check out some of the most fashion stories this year.
01
Taraji P. Henson’s Best Fashion Moments At The 2020 AMAs
When it comes to Taraji P. Henson, if there is one thing to know it’s that she loves a glam moment. From red carpets to television appearances, the actress is always going to be picture-ready when she steps out. That’s why last night, her effortless slay was nothing less than expected. The Empire star hosted the 2020 American Music Awards and despite the audience being limited to socially distanced families and friends, she still gave a show.
02
20 Face Masks From Black Designers
In the beginning of the pandemic, Kerby Jean-Raymond used his Instagram platform to announce his plans for providing aid to COVID-19 victims. The Brooklyn-based creative turned his New York studio into a donation center and granted small businesses with financial support, while independent brand Six20 curated a six-minute video detailing how to sew masks following the current CDC protocols.
03
Cardi B’s Custom Louis Vuitton Look Is Just What We Needed To Get Through The Week
The Bronx rapper paired a Boite Chapeau Louis Vuitton bag with a matching monogrammed set. The set was originally a LV skirt in which Cardi B’s stylist collaborated with LA seamstress Baba Jagne to create the viral moment.
04
30 Black Fashionistas To Follow On Instagram
If New York, Paris, Milan and London are the four fashion capitals of the world, then figuratively speaking, Instagram is easily the fifth. As trends disappear as quickly as they arrive, and as the fashion retail cycle continues to speed up and diversify, it can be hard to keep up with what’s what. But through following the right accounts on Instagram, you’ve basically got a modern style encyclopedia at your fingertips.
05
The Black-Owned Brands Nailing Every Handbag Trend
Even though fashion enthusiasts are always looking out for new trends, whether through Fashion Week shows, street style looks from their favorite editors, or recommendations from their favorite influencers, accessories are overlooked next to apparel. But alas, handbags have risen to the forefront to shine over the last few seasons, hitting every extreme as far as trends go: from the super mini, to the extra grande; from the utmost minimalistic to a display of maximum detail.
06
Mo’Nique Is The Latest To Receive The Ivy Park Gift Box
Joining the elite crew to receive custom boxes from Queen Bey is actress, host, and comedian Mo’Nique. After receiving backlash about size inclusivity from its last drop, Beyonce went back to the drawing board and expanded their sizes for this latest collection.
07
Twenty Black Male Models You Should Know
Models have the power to change the way the world sees people of color while defying European standards of beauty. They are not just pretty faces and, in the case of these beautiful men, a set of rock-hard abs.
08
Beyoncé’s Motherland Flex with “Black Is King”
Whether it’s popping up on fellow Texas baddie Megan The Stallion’s “Savage” with a vicious verse or other queenly duties, Mrs. Knowles-Carter never ceases to delight. And this year Queen Bey came all the way through with the ultimate flex, Black Is King, a mesh of African-inspired goodness showcasing pure joy through music, fashion, dance, beauty and more.
09
EXCLUSIVE: Beyoncé Teams Up With Peloton
Beyoncé and the elite workout conglomerate Peloton have announced a multi-year partnership. From a collaboration with the late Jean-Michel Basquiat to teaming up with Westin Hotels across the globe, Peloton has administered a unique way to make its services available — practically anywhere.
10
50 Black Creatives In Fashion You Should Know
It’s no secret that Black fashion has historically influenced the industry, yet many creatives of color are often left ignored and underfunded. To make it as an established industry insider is a systematic power struggle in which only a few sit at the helm. However, in 2020, Black creatives are more powerful than ever.
