ICYMI: Essence Fest & NOLA: A First-Timer’s Diary of Culture, Fashion, & Unforgettable Vibes
Better late than never, right?
We’re three weeks past the trip, but I have to share my experience. This trip was a late birthday gift to myself- since I had never been to New Orleans, I had to check it out.
If you’ve been following the news around Essence Fest in recent years, you know critics have been pretty harsh due to the seemingly changing theme. But I’m happy I went! The overall energy feels like a big vibrant party and family reunion for Black Americans (particularly Black Women) coming in from every corner of the country. Seeing Black business owners, convention attendees, and locals all hanging out, letting loose, and soaking up the city was pure magic. Plus, having Teyana Taylor—who has been absolutely killing it in entertainment lately—as the event’s brand ambassador set the ultimate tone.
Here’s the breakdown of my first trip to the Big Easy for Essence Fest x July 4th - 250th Anniversary….
Urban Fashion Sense 2026 Essence Fest x New Orleans Recap
The Convention, Activations & Star-Sightings
I didn’t realize the daytime event was free?! You just gotta get to New Orleans!
All the conferences and activations at the convention center are complimentary (you only pay for vendor merch and VIP access).
I really wanted to check out the Valentino and Target activations, but I was a bit too late. I also just missed out on getting a cute bag from Mielle. However, I did snag gorgeous bags from Strands of Faith and Camille Rose (which I ended up using to consolidate my luggage on the way home—a major win!).
While over by the Strands of Faith booth, I spotted Kandi Burruss at her KandiKoated booth, and even bumped into Kendra G, who was sweet enough to pose for a picture with me! I wish I would’ve saw Tokyo Vanity! Catching besties Normani and Ryan Destiny on stage for the My Girls conversation was another highlight. Didn’t realize I would be seeing them in person a few months down the line when I watched their YouTube sit-down a few months ago.
Wish I could have caught them again on Sunday performing alongside Mya, Sevyn Streeter, and Chloe Bailey for Missy and Choreographer Fatima’s curated Aaliyah tribute, but they were a last-minute addition and we didn't have tickets for Sunday's show!
NOLA Fashion, Local Designers & Street Style
New Orleans has style. Period. On Saturday, while most people were at the convention center, my group visited H&M for the HFR (Harlem’s Fashion Row) pop-up, hosted by Brandice Daniel, which highlighted incredible Black designers. Major shoutout to HFR for always showing up for Black fashion and putting rising talent on the map!
Speaking of local talent, shoutout to New Orleans native designer Emline—I saw everyone rocking his line around the city.
On our very first day heading to the French Quarter, I was wearing my Honda Jersey top taking some street photos when I met Heema Adisa, owner of a local boutique. He loved my top and took a picture for inspiration, then invited us to his pop-up shop! We went the next day and had the best time meeting locals and learning about his brand. While there, I also met Steff in the City, a super talented jewelry designer.
The Night Concerts: Legendary Energy
Most people go to Essence Fest for the night shows at the Caesars Superdome, and we were in there until 2 AM!
We caught the end of Patti LaBelle’s set, but Babyface brought the absolute house down running through a legendary rendition of hits he produced (and admitting what I’ve been saying for years: Bobby Brown is the King of R&B!).
Then came Brandy and Monica. I loved both of their sets and outfits—they took us straight down memory lane with iconic Cross Colours and Karl Kani fits!
Monica: A Dozen Roses and So Gone - favorite performances!
Brandy: Incredible dancing, a beautiful tribute to Whitney Houston and En Vogue, and she brought out Yo-Yo and MC Lyte for the I Wanna Be Down Remix!
Exploring New Orleans & The Food Scene
While I loved the activations and music, my mother, sister, and I made sure to spend plenty of time exploring the city itself. The local people are so welcoming!
Now, let’s talk about the French Quarter: the vibrant energy is amazing, but the Quarter itself is definitely an acquired taste.
As for the food? Delicious.
Desire’s: Great spot in the French Quarter.
Ladelyo’s Creole Catering: Grabbed some delicious food from them at the Convention Center.
Patti Pies: I picked up a small Patti Pie for my mom at the convention center, and to my surprise, Miss Patti LaBelle herself was right there at her booth!
Rumba: Located near our stay, this place had a gorgeous island vibe with a live steel pan performer. I had the shrimp and grits and a virgin mojito (pro-tip: ask them to add raspberry!). It came served with a stick of sugar cane, which was such a nice touch.
Pralines: I finally had a real NOLA praline at the airport on my way back home, and it did not disappoint.
Where We Stayed & Day Trips
I’m keeping our exact stay a secret because we ALL loved it so much and I want to save it for my next trip! But I will say it was about 20 minutes outside the city, worth every single dime, and surrounded by great retailers.
It was also super close to the Destrehan Plantation, which we visited. Unlike other plantations that are 1–2 hours away, this was an easy drive. We learned so much about the 1811 Slave Revolt, Louisiana sugar cane history, fur manufacturing, and more.
Want to plan your own NOLA getaway? If you are interested in learning more about where I stayed or want details on the exact spots I visited and more, send me a direct message in the Let’s Work section here!
I’d love to assist you with curating an identical trip for your next New Orleans, Louisiana adventure.