The Best Red Carpet Looks From The 2026 Fashion Trust U.S. Awards – Essence

The fourth annual Fashion Trust U.S. (FTUS) awards ceremony took place on Tuesday, April 7, in Los Angeles, California. Earlier this year, on February 16, the finalists were announced, with five designers ultimately selected to receive financial grants along with professional mentorship through FTUS in partnership with Google. Among the winners were Zane Li of LII, Marcelle Barbosa of Amaramara, and Maxwell Osborne and Kristy Chen of An Only Child.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a fashion awards ceremony without a standout red carpet. Among the night’s most memorable moments, Erykah Badu posed alongside Michelle Lamy of Rick Owens, both dressed in the avant-garde label. Badu turned heads in a cropped, oversized white set layered under a black leather jacket with dramatic fringe, finished with platform sandals and a sculptural rubber hat accented by a red trim. A platinum blonde wig with yellow tips added an extra edge to the look.

Coco Jones delivered effortless elegance in a Cult Gaia ribbed gown, featuring a plunging neckline and halter silhouette in a soft pale pink. Styled with a sleek low ponytail and minimal hoop earrings, the look felt both natural and ethereal.

Actress Jodie Turner-Smith stunned in a vibrant orange draped gown, complete with intricate pleating and ruching at the bodice. A tied detail cinched at the hips, while the flowing skirt moved beautifully with each step, creating a striking, fluid effect on the carpet.

Ryan Destiny made a bold statement in a drop-waist red gown with daring cutouts that highlighted her waist, accented by a gold belt at the hips. The floor-length skirt featured a high slit, paired seamlessly with strappy gold sandals for a look that balanced structure and allure.

Olandria debuted a fresh take on the trending pixie cut, styled with soft volume at the sides and a rounded silhouette, finished with a subtle tail at the nape. Her signature glam, rosy pink blush and a chic nude lip, perfectly complemented the modern hairstyle.

Scroll ahead to see our favorite looks from the 2026 Fashion Trust U.S. Awards Ceremony.