Fashion

All The Best Looks From Black Girls Rock

by Jodie Layne

Saturday night's taping of 2015's "Black Girls Rock" event brought out Michelle Obama, tons of celebs, and many red carpet heavyweights, making the night as stylish as it was inspiring. The annual celebration of black women and girls is a partnership between the non-profit of the same name and Black Entertainment Television (BET). The organization has been working since 2006 to inspire girls of color between the ages of 12 and 17 to participate in the arts, as well as conversations about the portrayal of women of color in the media and media literacy. It's an organization and event whose work and messaging is irrevocably needed and relevant in the current media climate.

Gathering together to recognize and celebrate these girls and women as they provide visible representation of excellence is not just important for women of color to see, but for everyone to see. We still live in a world in which stereotypes and negative portrayals of black women are shown in media to unacceptable levels, black girls face all types of discrimination and barriers to education, and "classical beauty standards" aren't inclusive of women of color. Subsequently, Ava Duvernay's "Shot Caller" award was important in light of her snub at the least diverse Oscars in years.

The tone of exuberant celebration at last night's event seemed palpable, and the white carpet looks did not disappoint. Here are some of the evening's best:

Michelle Obama

FLOTUS looked unreal in this white off-the-shoulder, structured, bustier-style dress.

Janelle Monae

Monae continues to kill it in her black, white, and red theme in these striped co-ords with a hint of floral.

Jill Scott

Jill Scott's jumpsuit with a hint of color was chic, fierce, and fun.

Raven Goodwin

Being Mary Jane's Raven Goodwin looked unreal in this Monif C. leather dress and nude heels.

The Pinkett Smiths

Between Jada's sparkly drop-hem Versace gown and Willow's monochrome look with sparkly socks and sandals, these women were heavenly.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee completely slayed (as usual) in this stunning gown that almost looked like two different dresses in the best way possible.

Gabi Gregg

The plus-size blogger behind Gabifresh looked amazing in a custom crop top and skirt combo from PLY apparel.

Images: Instagram/gabifresh; Instagram/mizaniusa; Instagram/journaldustyle; Instagram/ravengoodwin; Instagram/conglamorate; Twitter/BET