NEW ORLEANS — On the sidelines, Alabama A&M head women’s basketball coach Dawn Thornton is more than a strategist—she’s a whole vibe. Thornton’s presence is impossible to ignore, whether calling plays or calling attention with her bold game day fashion. Her signature looks have racked up over seven million views on Instagram this season alone. Now, the world beyond HBCU basketball is taking notice. Coach Thornton is set to join BeautyCon’s highly anticipated “Play the Game, Get the Look” panel at the Essence Festival of Culture in New Orleans on July 5, a celebration of how style, beauty, and confidence intersect—both on the court and in culture.
This year’s Essence Festival is especially meaningful, marking the 55th anniversary of Essence Magazine under the theme “Made Like This.” BeautyCon’s platform is spotlighting women from the South who are shaping beauty narratives and pushing back against outdated, one-dimensional standards. Thornton embodies that mission perfectly.
Style is an Extension of Self
“My style is definitely an extension of who I am,” Thornton shared. “It’s confident, intentional, and sometimes a little extra—in the best way. That’s how I coach, too. I’m big on presence and energy. Your preparation is your separation. Confidence isn’t just taught—it’s modeled. I want my players to always see that in me.”
For Dawn Thornton, fashion isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a form of leadership. Her dynamic looks send a clear message to her HBCU student-athletes: You can be powerful, poised, and unapologetically yourself…