Shannon Thornton brought the essence of timeless elegance to the 2025 Ebony Power 100 Gala, paying homage to one of her greatest inspirations, Whitney Houston.
The P-Valley star, known for her radiant beauty and magnetic screen presence, stunned onlookers in an archival Marc Bouwer gown that perfectly captured the spirit of ’90s glamour and the soulful legacy of the late music icon.
Thornton, a self-professed Whitney Houston superfan, made her fashion choice with intention. “Whitney has always embodied grace, strength, and unmatched beauty,” she shared ahead of the gala. “I wanted to honor that energy, her confidence, her sparkle, her voice, in a way that felt authentic to both of us.”
The Ebony Power 100 Gala, which honors Black excellence across entertainment, activism, business, and culture, was the perfect setting for Thornton’s homage. Her look wasn’t just about nostalgia, it was a celebration of lineage. In embodying Whitney’s spirit, Shannon paid tribute to a woman whose influence continues to shape the aesthetics, sound, and soul of Black culture.
Her beauty look, curated by her trusted glam team, further amplified the tribute. A warm, bronzed complexion paired with glossy nude lips and softly smoked eyes gave her a radiant, “I’m Every Woman” finish. The entire ensemble felt like a love letter to the era that raised her, and to the legend who continues to inspire generations of artists.
As cameras flashed and fans flooded social media with admiration, it was clear that Thornton’s Whitney-inspired moment wasn’t just a fashion statement, it was a heartfelt ode to legacy, femininity, and the timeless power of icons who paved the way.
