Essence Fashion Digest: Folklore Shop reopens, H&M hosts domestic violence awareness event with Bevy Smith – Essence

This week in fashion was full of moments we wanted to highlight. First, The Folklore, a platform known for supporting black designers, is back with a new project. Separately, H&M and Harlem-based nonprofit We All Really Matter hosted an event with Bevy Smith to support victims of domestic violence.

Meanwhile, actress and producer Quinta Brunson was spotted at the Emmy Awards after-party in a green Valentino gown. Rapper idk. and Rolex then collaborated on a special project. In equally compelling news, a Louis Vuitton and Timberland shoe collection is now available for pre-order online.

Additionally, Birkenstock released its second drop, “Give A Damn,” with New York luxury brand Lingua Franca, encouraging others to show their care for causes that matter to them. Finally, rapper Aminé teased an upcoming collaboration with New Balance.

Keep scrolling to discover the latest fashion trends of the week.

H&M Hosts Domestic Violence Awareness Event in Harlem

On Thursday, in partnership with Harlem-based nonprofit WARM (We All Really Matter) and media and fashion personality Bevy Smith, H&M hosted a community-focused event. The event, titled “Reclaiming Your Fine,” brought together women from WARM who are dedicated to supporting victims and survivors of domestic violence throughout their journey, according to a press release.

The event included a fireside chat with Smith, who spoke about the intersection of domestic violence advocacy, fashion, and mental well-being. The conversation was moderated by H&M Group’s Kiani Harris, co-chair of VIBE, African, Black, and Caribbean Descent Resource Group at H&M. Smith spoke candidly about how personal style and self-care can play an important role in recovery as well as empowerment.

Folklore Relaunches Its Shopping Platform

Global community of independent brand members, The Folklore, has returned with exciting and purposeful news. The direct-to-consumer shopping experience, The Folklore Shop, has been reimagined and is an effort “to continue supporting independent brands looking to expand their global reach and inspire consumers to shop with a purchase,” according to the brand.

This shopping experience connects global shoppers with a curated selection of diverse, sustainable and innovative independent brands spanning over 40 countries. Every product, which became available on September 12, comes from The Folklore’s extensive network of over 700 brand members.

Folklore Shop is launching with nearly 50 brands, offering customers an assortment of categories such as fashion, accessories, beauty, homeware, wellness, hygiene and baby products. Products from emerging markets including Africa, South America, Asia and the Caribbean to established markets including New York, London and Paris are available as part of the relaunch.

“Our mission is to create meaningful opportunities for our brands to grow, sell, connect and thrive in the global economy. Through this, we aim to build sustainable businesses that generate lasting wealth for generations to come,” Amira Rasool, founder and CEO of The Folklore, shared in a statement.

Visit The Folklore Shop to shop brands such as Ibilola Ogundipe, Kwelaku, Maraval, Mujo Lagos, Refine, Saphirre Kulture, Sara & Flora, SHIHOMA, Talensi and many more.

Louis Vuitton X Timberland Shoe Collection Now Available for Pre-Order

We’ve been eyeing the many iterations of the Timberland boot that Louis Vuitton has released recently. In case you missed it, the Fall/Winter 2025 Men’s Workwear Capsule by Pharrell Williams has unveiled updated styles of the logo boot, which are currently available for pre-order. One version is a mid-calf boot, while the other is an ankle boot. Two shades have also been introduced: buttery beige and black.

Visit Louis Vuitton to pre-order the LV X Timberland ankle boots for $2,450. To see the entire collection, click here.

Quinta Brunson wears Valentino

At this week’s Emmy Awards, the standout look was actress and producer Quinta Brunson in an earthy green Valentino gown. Her stylist Jessica Paster made sure the look was eye-catching. The side cutouts and plunging neckline highlighted the actress’s cleavage. Meanwhile, her gold teardrop earrings elegantly framed her face, as she wasn’t wearing a necklace. Her short haircut also gave the gown room to shine.

I don’t know. I work with Rolex

Rapper idk. has teamed up with Rolex. As his hit single “TiFFANY” continues to climb the charts, an exclusive reinterpretation of the Rolex Tiffany 2:22 Datejust Rolex has been officially revealed. The custom-made timepiece features a Tiffany steel dial, a black patent crocodile strap, and custom engraving. Fans will have the opportunity to win a signed watch from the rapper and a lifetime pass to his future shows and events. The contest ends on October 4.

“In a world where it’s increasingly difficult to reach new fans, we want to focus on building community and nurturing the people who already love what we do,” the rapper said. “I envisioned this watch as a collectible art piece, complementing the collection of items I’ve created in the past — like Game Boys, sneakers, and gadgets. It’s just another step on a journey I’ve been on since day one,” he added.

Birkenstock Launches Its Second Collection “Give A Damn” with Lingua Franca

In collaboration with Lingua Franca, a New York-based luxury fashion brand, Birkenstock has launched its second collection, “Give A Damn.” The limited-edition collection is an inspiring message to encourage consumers and fans to show their concern for the pressing issues that matter to them. The new white shoe features the cursive script “give a damn” in honor of that sentiment.

“We were thrilled by the overwhelming response to our first collection and are thrilled to once again partner with our friends at Lingua Franca. Together, we are excited to offer our fans these sandals that serve as a daily reminder to engage with what really matters and find meaningful ways to make a difference,” says David Kahan, President of Birkenstock Americas.

Shop the new “Give A Damn” collection at birkenstock.com. Retail prices are $350.

Aminé and New Balance Announce New Collaboration

A teaser video posted by rapper Aminé on Instagram hinted at a possible collaboration with New Balance. In the clip, a billboard in the video reads “2 NB Collabs,” and the artist is also pictured. He’s collaborated with the brand twice before. Not much else has been revealed about the new shoe, but knowing Aminé, we’re in for a treat.