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If rocking rich colors, owning the red carpet, and serving from here to the fashion ‘gawds was the assignment, the stars at the Fifteen Percent Pledge’s fourth annual gala understood it. And we were here for every single look.
On February 1, stars from entertainment, fashion, music, and film gathered at Paramount Studios. They came together to celebrate Black influence in fashion and retail. As designer Brandon Blackwood put it, the event felt like “a little family reunion.”
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The 4th Annual Fifteen Percent Pledge Gala Brings Out Style, Philanthropy, & Vibes In LA
Hosted by Yvonne Orji, the gala brought out major names like Kelly Rowland, Ciara, Keke Palmer, Janelle James, Teyana Taylor, and Ms. Tina Knowles—all stepping out in Black-owned designs. Attendees wore well-known Black fashion designers like Brandon Blackwood, Sergio Hudson, Harbison Studio, LaQuan Smith, and more. DJ Brittany Sky kept the vibes high, while the event raised funds for Black-owned businesses impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires.
Beyond the glam, the night was about investing in Black entrepreneurs making waves in the industry. Founder Aurora James and Kelly Rowland awarded RedDrop ($200K), Brooklyn Tea ($35K), and Bernard James ($15K) as the 2025 Achievement Award winners. Meanwhile, Sienna Naturals co-founders Hannah Diop and Issa Rae secured the $100K Sephora Beauty Grant.
The Fifteen Percent Pledge kept the momentum going with the 15th Street Block Party. The party featured Black-owned brand pop-ups, book signings, and a live podcast with John Legend.
“This year’s event is a testament to the power of community, collaboration, and lasting change,” Aurora James said to ESSENCE. “With DEI efforts under attack, the Fifteen Percent Pledge is ensuring Black businesses stay winning.”
“The overwhelming support for Black businesses and entrepreneurs continues to grow, underscoring a collective commitment to fostering inclusive economic growth,” Aurora said. “Major retailers and brands increasingly recognize that a strong economy is built on access, opportunity, and investment in diverse businesses.”
Style Gallery: See Kelly Rowland, Keke Palmer, & More At The 4th Annual Fifteen Percent Pledge Gala
Keep scrolling to see our favorite looks of the night!
1. Teyana Taylor
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Teyana Taylor embodies edgy sophistication in this black tailored suit from LaQuan Smith. The suit featured a sheer, polka-dot top and oversized pants. The star completed the look with bold, gold hair accents and sharp makeup, exuding confidence and avant-garde style.
2. Keke Palmer
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Keke Palmer radiates sophistication and gorgeous grown woman energy in a figure-hugging silver satin gown from Sergio Hudson. Her dress featured structured details, expert tailoring, and a shape-creating wide belt.
3. Precious Lee
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Precious Lee loves to strike a pose – and she is doing that and more on the Fifteen Percent Pledge red carpet. We can’t get enough of her royal purple monochromatic look. The supermodel is literally queenin” from head to toe.
4. Tina Knowles
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Tina Knowles is a striking statement in a tailored black ensemble featuring a dramatic asymmetrical skirt and structured blazer. Her sheer gloves, dazzling earrings, and bold red lip add a glamorous touch, while her flowing waves exude timeless elegance. No one wears black with a red lip like Beyonce’s mother.
5. Law Roach
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Law Roach commands attention in a chocolate-brown double-breasted suit with gold button details, paired with oversized sunglasses and flowing, voluminous hair. His understated accessories, including a watch and rings, add an extra layer of sophistication to this bold ensemble. If there’s one thing Law is going to do, its to create a fashion moment of his own.
6. Jackie Aina
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Jackie is all about gilden gold glamour and we are here for it. The beauty enthusiast and entrepreneur serves a look in a sculpted sleevles corset gown and dramatic sleeve cape details. Her makeup, skin, and hair are a 10 out of 10. We’d expect nothing less from her!
7. June Ambrose
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June Ambrose loves to serve bold prints and colors, but this time she opted for a demure black ensemble. We love her dramatic off-the-shoulder details and matching over-the-top hat.
8. Bresha Webb
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Bresha Webb gave all she was supposed to give with this fit. Her look features a striking strapless gown with a structured, sculptural bodice in bold orange. Her fitted black skirt balanced the dramatic top, creating a sleek and sophisticated silhouette. G
9. Yvonne Orji
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Yvonne Orji shined like the hostess of the night! Her emerald dress against her melanin skin was a perfect pair.
10. Jeannie Mai
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Jeannie Mai stuns in a magenta strapless gown with a corset-style bodice and structured, tailored details on the skirt, featuring dramatic folds and button accents. Her sleek hairstyle and gold accessories add a touch of modern glamour to this bold, sculptural look.
11. Karrueche Tran
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Karrueche Tran is that girl when it comes to wearing black. She stuns in a sleek black gown featuring a daring plunging neckline and structured vest-like bodice. The dress transitions into a voluminous gathered skirt with subtle embellishments at the waist, adding texture and movement. She completes the look with strappy black heels, minimal jewelry from Kaimanna by Samara and Oak and Luna, and sleek hair.
12. Lori Harvey
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Lori Harvey is glowing in a rust-colored asymmetrical dress featuring draped details and a thigh-high slit. She complemented the look with strappy red sandals, sleek hair, and soft makeup, effortlessly blending elegance, it girl vibes, and allure.
13. Janelle James
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Janelle James looks amazing in cobalt blue! The Abbot Elementary owns the color in a velvet gown with a high neckline, ruched details, and puffed sleeves. Her minimalist styling and bold gold hoop earrings enhance the luxurious, rich texture and timeless silhouette of the dress.
