Teyana Taylor Didn’t Just Curate ESSENCE Festival—She Curated a Fashion Moment
When Teyana Taylor was named Chief Curator of the 2026 ESSENCE Festival of Culture, everyone expected bold creativity and she delivered on every level. Throughout the weekend, her artistic vision could be felt across the festival, from unforgettable performances inside the Caesars Superdome to thought-provoking conversations and experiences throughout the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.
Of course, it wouldn’t be Teyana without serving unforgettable fashion, and one of the biggest style moments came courtesy of her own creative team. Instead of traditional backstage attire, Taylor outfitted her entire crew in custom-designed jumpsuits that blended fashion, function, and personality. The coordinated looks featured ESSENCE Festival branding alongside her Aunties Productions logo, creating a unique collaboration that celebrated both the festival and her creative empire. Playful graphics, artistic illustrations, and bold “Aunties” lettering across the waistband gave each piece its own signature flair.
Edith Donaldson, Courtney “Coco” Gilbert and Yeika Oliva
The team switched up the color palette throughout the weekend, rocking crisp white, sleek gray, and rich purple versions of the jumpsuits, paired with coordinating fitted caps embroidered with the dual-branded logo. The matching looks instantly became one of the festival’s most talked-about fashion statements.
Naturally, Teyana elevated every outfit with her unmistakable sense of style. She customized her jumpsuits with eye-catching Schiaparelli brooches, alternated between classic Converse sneakers and coveted Air Jordans, and even transformed some of the one-piece looks into chic shorts. It was another reminder that true style isn’t just about what you wear it’s about making every look your own.
On a personal note, one of the highlights for me was seeing a familiar face behind all the glam. My longtime girlfriend, Edith Donaldson from my hometown Cleveland, Ohio, is Teyana Taylor’s lead hairstylist, and watching her career continue to soar has been nothing short of inspiring. Edith owns Bangs Salon in Mayfield Heights, Ohio and frequently travels to Atlanta and around the world styling Teyana for major appearances.
Seeing someone I’ve known for years flourish on such a global stage fills me with so much pride. Traveling the world alongside one of entertainment’s most stylish creatives while helping craft these unforgettable beauty moments truly feels like a dream come true and Edith is living it beautifully.
Teyana Taylor, Edith Donaldson, Courtney “Coco” Gilbert and Yeika Oliva
Edith Donaldson
Teyana in custom jumpsuit with Schiaparelli brooches and chains
(Photos by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for ESSENCE)
