Jennifer Hudson stuns in bridal-inspired corset dress and natural curls


Jennifer Hudson looked ethereal in a gown by Jean-Louis Sabaji for the Annual American Black Film Festival Honors – see picture


Jennifer Hudson in sequin corset dress attends the 8th Annual American Black Film Festival Honors © Getty Images
Maria Sarabi
Maria SarabiFashion & Lifestyle Writer
February 18, 2026
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Jennifer Hudson just brought bridal-inspired glamour to the red carpet as she graced the 8th Annual American Black Film Festival Honors at The SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills on February 16.

Styled by Kellen Richards, the 44-year-old donned a pearly-hued gown from fashion label Jean-Louis Sabaji. The striking dress featured a bandeau corseted bodice paired with a ruched skirt, beautifully adorned with a floral appliqué accent. The entire gown shimmered with intricate sequins, lending it an ethereal finish, while a sultry thigh-high slit added a bold edge.

Jennifer's brunette locks were left down in her signature corkscrew curls while her makeup oozed soft glam, courtesy of a shimmery eye, a pinch of blush, and a glossy lip. The star accessorized with pointed-toe heels and a dainty, diamond-encrusted necklace.

Jennifer Hudson in white sequin Jean-Louis Sabaji gown© AFP via Getty Images
Jennifer Hudson stunned in a Jean-Louis Sabaji gown

Each year, standout talents from across the entertainment world are honoured with accolades spanning multiple distinguished categories, including the Hollywood Legacy Award, Entertainment Icon Award, Excellence in the Arts Award, Renaissance Award, Industry Visionary Award, Rising Star Award, Classic Cinema Award, Evolution Award and Horizon Award.

This year's honorees included Dwayne Johnson (Entertainment Icon Award), Angela Bassett (Excellence in the Arts Award), Jennifer Hudson (Renaissance Award), Salli Richardson-Whitfield (Evolution Award), and Damson Idris (Horizon Award).

Jennifer Hudson in sequin dress at the 8th Annual American Black Film Festival Honors © Variety via Getty Images
Jennifer Hudson at the 8th Annual American Black Film Festival Honors

Jennifer is no stranger to amping up the glamour and often stuns in a slew of colorful ensembles while hosting her eponymous talk show. Back in August, the star opened up about her grueling work schedule with Interview Magazine.

"I feel like sometimes we’re not allowed to say we're tired because people think we're ungrateful. It’s like, "No, no, no. I appreciate what I do." But sometimes we need a little reset and a little rest. That don't mean we’re complaining," she said.

Jennifer Hudson appears on "The Jennifer Hudson Show" airing May 13, 2025 in Burbank, California. Check your local listings for times© Getty Images
Jennifer Hudson hosts her eponymous talk show

She continued: "But you know, my spirit would be flying around everywhere, child. It’s like my home is within me – every place I go feels like it. But in my perfect world, it’s where I’m sitting right now in Chicago in the residence I call home. But that routine when I’m not working? I have to rediscover those things. It’s like, 'Okay, where am I now versus when I left here the last time?' It’s rediscovering yourself. And I’m a sponge. I’m taking from everything and everywhere I’ve been."

"It’s like reintroducing yourself to yourself. I love to get up, have my little sip of coffee, and sit here and hear the birds chirping. That’s how I want to start my day. And then I want to set my mind. I love affirmations. What do I want this day to be? And I don’t like no day where I can’t achieve something. But right now, I just want to sit here. To me, that is the definition of a real off-day. Or to have the liberty to say, 'You know what? Right now, I’ll do whatever the hell I want.'"

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