Take a behind-the-scenes look at what the actress wore to the ceremony.
From film, television, and music, the 55th NAACP Image Awards gathered Hollywood heavyweights to celebrate the best in Black excellence this past weekend, with a star-studded ceremony held in Los Angeles. The multi-talented Queen Latifah returned for hosting duties, and highlights of the evening included special appearances by Oprah, Usher, Fantasia Barrino, and more.
While many awards were handed out for acting and singing, we also must commend the fabulous fashions that walked the (beige) carpet. We loved the daring dresses that some chose to wear, like Taraji P. Henson in a chic canary-colored dress from Del Core and Yara Shahidi in a sculpted bodice gown from Salvatore Ferragamo. But it was Octavia Spencer in a bold-yet-classic sequined tuxedo suit and black silk top designed by Lafayette 148 Creative Director Emily Smith that was the definition of effortless red carpet chic.
Spencer was nominated as Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series for her captivating performance as Poppy Parnell, an investigative reporter behind a hit true-crime podcast in the Apple TV+ series Truth Be Told. "It's wonderful because we won our first season, and since this was our final season, there's a meaningful symmetry. We're all truly grateful to have our show recognized," Spencer exclusively told InStyle.
While her onscreen character spends much of her time behind-the-scenes recording her podcast, in reality, Spencer has no problem stepping into the limelight and owning it alongside her peers, "The Image Awards are so affirming because we're being recognized by our community," she says. "It's like attending a family reunion, and you're thrilled to celebrate everyone."
Ahead, Spencer exclusively tells InStyle all about her Lafayette 148 look, her personal style, and the team that helps bring it all together.
Her Style
"My style is classic business casual. My everyday uniform is a tailored jean paired with a beautiful blouse and to-die-for jacket, plus the most comfortable sexy peep toes I can find."
The Look
"I chose Lafayette 148 because some of my favorite pieces in my wardrobe are theirs. The natural progression was to wear them to an awards show."
"I love the fun sparkling aspect of the look. My favorite things are sparkle and animal prints, so you know I'm in heaven."
The Team
“My stylists for the past 14 years are Wendi and Nicole Ferreira. They’ve always curated the most amazing gowns, jewels, bags, and shoes. David Stanwell does my hair, and Valerie Noble does my makeup.”
"We knew immediately this was the look for the NAACP Image Awards," said Wendi and Nicole Ferreira. "It was the perfect balance of dressed-up and elegance but without the fuss. The relaxed silhouette had an inherent cool, downtown vibe, which we loved."
The Ferreiras continued, "The looks exude ease and confidence, even though the foundation of the look was silk and sequins. Lafayette 148 and their Creative Director, Emily Smith, always nail it with luxurious fabrics and modern, high-quality designs."
The After-Party Plans
"I plan to crash! I'm so appreciative to my team and Lafayette 148 for making me feel beautiful."
