LOS ANGELES — By Wylissa Bennet (Jacksonville Free Press Contributor) | As Black America gathered in Los Angeles for BET Awards weekend, the Jacksonville Free Press was on the scene capturing the fashion, beauty, and cultural moments that made the celebration one of the year’s most anticipated events.
While music remained the centerpiece of the weekend, fashion and beauty took center stage as Black creatives showcased their influence on culture from Los Angeles to Africa and beyond.
Leading up to the BET Awards, red carpet events, industry gatherings, and exclusive celebrations highlighted a growing commitment to supporting Black designers, African fashion houses, and Black-owned beauty brands. Bold Afrocentric designs, vibrant prints, and natural hairstyles were among the weekend’s most prominent trends.
At the Black Excellence Gala, Nigerian fashion designer Abiola Olusola was recognized for her contributions to the fashion industry. Known for blending contemporary design with Yoruba cultural influences, Olusola’s work has gained international attention, including contributions to Beyoncé’s Black Is King visual album.
The event also showcased the growing trend of travelers returning from Africa with custom fashion and beauty experiences rather than traditional souvenirs. Talent manager Zee Griffith wore a contemporary Afrocentric gown by Nigerian designer Alia Rayana Bare, while attendee Maleena Lawrence drew attention with an intricate braided hairstyle inspired by the traditional Tanavoho style of Madagascar.
Streetwear also made a strong statement during the relaunch of Black Beat Magazine, where rapper and entrepreneur Omar Cook showcased designs from his Rich With God Apparel brand, blending faith-based messaging with modern fashion.
On the beauty front, creative executive Thembisa Mshaka and celebrity makeup artist Ashunta Sheriff-Kendricks hosted a Hip Hop Beauty Bar at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, spotlighting innovative Black-owned beauty brands and celebrating the ongoing influence of hip-hop culture on beauty trends.
From luxury fashion and streetwear to natural hairstyles and Black-owned beauty brands, BET Weekend 2026 proved that Black creativity continues to shape the future of fashion and beauty on a global scale—and the Jacksonville Free Press was there to witness it all.
For more on the BET AWARDS visit:
https://www.bet.com/bet-awards