Maxwell has always dressed smooth, intentional, and a little bit mysterious. When he first hit the scene in the ’90s, he wore soft blazers, and loose pants that felt more romantic than trendy. His style wasn’t loud, but it had a feeling. Before “soft masculinity” became a buzzword, Maxwell was already living it, favoring muted colors, and silhouettes that moved right along with his falsetto. The message was clear: being gentle, light, and simple can be powerful.
As the 2000s rolled in, his suits became a little more tailored, he introduced more tees and denim but he never lost that softness. He wore suits with open collars, scarves tossed just right, and shirts unbuttoned enough to say, “I’m relaxed, but I care.” Maxwell picked fabrics like silk and cashmere because they looked as soft as his lyrics sounded. His clothes either looked expensive, or not-so-much but either way it was his aura that really sealed the deal.
During the BLACKsummers’night era around 2009, his style leaned even more into simplicity. He wore fitted suits without ties, more simple denim outfits and small accessories that felt personal like a ring, or a single bracelet, never too much.
These days, Maxwell is still doing what he’s always done but in smooth turtlenecks, long coats in soft colors, and suits in pastel shades that glow under stage lights. He still leaves a few buttons undone, still picks pieces that move with ease. Whether he’s at a huge festival, an intimate gig, or just showing up, the vibe stays the same. His looks feel honest, making space for feeling in the way he dressed. His style has always been about intention, not trends. And even now, Maxwell’s style reminds us that vulnerability, intention, and desire can sit comfortably on a man’s shoulders and he’s been showing us how for decades.
This year, as he takes the stage at ESSENCE Fest, you already know the look will land just as smooth as the set list. Expect something soft, tailored, and unforgettable.
The ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ presented by Coca-Cola® will take place July 3-6. For more information and updates on the festival, visit our website and follow us on social media @ESSENCEFest on X, Facebook, and Instagram.