Gabrielle Union Shines in Prada and Jeweled Heels at 2017 Essence Black Women in Hollywood Awards

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In February 2017, Gabrielle Union led many inspirational women at the 10th Annual Essence Black Women in Hollywood Awards. She hosted the star-studded event, a joyous celebration of women in entertainment.

The then-44-year-old actress joined Hollywood stars such as Tracee Ellis Ross, Debbie Allen, Janelle Monáe, and Yvonne Orji. She sparkled in her black embellished dress from Prada and ankle-strap sandals.

Gabrielle Union at the 10th Annual Essence Black Women in Hollywood Awards held at the Beverly Wilshire HotelGabrielle Union at the 10th Annual Essence Black Women in Hollywood Awards held at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, on February 23, 2017 (Credit: WENN / Valerie Brooks)

At the event, Janelle Monáe received the Breakthrough Award for Moonlight and Hidden Figures, Issa Rae was honored with the Vanguard Award, Aja Naomi King received the Lincoln Shining Star Award, and Yara Shahidi was recognized with the Generation Next Award.

Gabrielle stepped out on the grey carpet in a black pleated dress from Prada. The dress featured long sleeves, jewel embellishments, and contrasting silver piping. She accessorized with jewels from Tiffany & Co. and an emerald green clutch.

Gabrielle Union dazzles in a black Prada dress adorned with jeweled embellishments and paired with chic ankle-strap heelsGabrielle Union dazzles in a black Prada dress adorned with jeweled embellishments and paired with chic ankle-strap heels

Her hair was styled in cropped waves, and her makeup was simple. She completed her look with ankle-strap heels, which featured peep-toes, slender ankle straps, and an embellished design.

Her look garnered mixed reactions from fashion critics. Some felt that the dress didn’t suit the actress, while others thought she looked impeccable. All that matters in the end is that Gabrielle slayed her hosting gig, and she did it in style.

Gabrielle Union shows off her chic black ankle-strap heels adorned with jeweled accents, paired with a polished nude pedicureGabrielle Union shows off her chic black ankle-strap heels adorned with jeweled accents, paired with a polished nude pedicure

Gabrielle Union has shown a strong affinity for Prada, as seen during The Perfect Find press tour, where she wore a stunning caramel-colored Prada mini dress at the Tribeca Festival.

Styled by Thomas Christos, this dress featured intricate jewel embellishments and sleek cutouts, emphasizing her love for Prada’s sophisticated and elegant designs.

Gabrielle Union completes her look with elegant black satin ankle-strap heels featuring jeweled embellishments at the toesGabrielle Union completes her look with elegant black satin ankle-strap heels featuring jeweled embellishments at the toes

In August 2013, Gabrielle Union embraced a full Prada ensemble at the Venice International Film Festival. She wore a pleated Prada dress with v-neck and peplum details, complemented by gold-and-black Prada heels from the Fall 2013 collection.

The sandals featured quilted gold straps, double ankle straps, and block heels, showcasing Union’s admiration for Prada’s elegant yet bold designs.