Teyana Taylor can seemingly do no wrong when it comes to her style-related choices. She proved that yet again when she showed up to — and spoke onstage at — the 2026 ESSENCE Black Women In Hollywood Awards in Los Angeles on March 12.
Getty
Getty
GettyFor the event, Taylor looked stunning in a full-length gown featuring long sleeves and a relatively high neck. Beyond that, the Sabina Bilenko dress boasted a corset underneath and a light blush pink sheer fabric as the base. While that was gorgeous on its own, the entire piece was covered in intricate leafy vine details and 3D black (and a few pink) butterflies that took the entire look to another level.
The ‘Breathtaking’ Gown ‘Created an Ethereal Moment’
The “breathtaking Sabina Bilenko creation … blended drama with clearly delicate artistry,” per The Fashion Spot. “The floor-length sheer gown, which was thoroughly decorated with contrasting butterfly embellishments, created an ethereal moment. Meanwhile, the statement ensemble also featured a structured corset bodysuit underneath, which totally added a sculpted edge to the visibly dreamy silhouette.”
“Taylor kept her accessories sleek and understated, opting for minimalist earrings from Ohliguer and a matching ring,” according to Mandatory. “For her makeup, the Straw actress went with metallic brown eyeshadow, black liner, soft blush, and a brown ombré lip.”
The ESSENCE Event ‘Offered a Clear Picture of … Talent and Influence’
GettyThe 2026 ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Awards, which was hosted by actress and producer Marsai Martin, “honored a group of women whose work continues to influence the direction of storytelling on screen,” according to ESSENCE.
“The 2026 theme, Off Script, reflected the moment the industry now finds itself in,” ESSENCE explained. “Black women are taking on larger creative roles, stepping into positions where decisions about production, financing, and ownership are made. The ceremony highlighted how many are shaping projects from concept to completion while opening doors for the next generation of filmmakers and performers.”
ESSENCE also noted that the “room itself reflected the scale of the celebration. Figures such as Zendaya, Teyana Taylor, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Chlöe and Halle Bailey, Ryan Coogler, Michael B. Jordan, Delroy Lindo, Aldis Hodge, and Tyriq Withers, among several others, were in attendance; with musical performances from Mýa and Tyrese. Inside the ballroom and across the carpet, the night offered a clear picture of the talent and influence gathered under one roof.”
The 2026 ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood event will be available to stream on ESSENCE’s YouTube channel starting Saturday, March 14.
