Montclair State instructor Pamela Macklin reflects on Essence magazine cover shoot

Fashion industry veteran and Montclair State University instructor Pamela Macklin recently shared reflections on her role directing fashion and style for a landmark Essence magazine cover shoot featured in the publication’s 55th anniversary issue.

Macklin, who previously served as Fashion Director at Essence in the early 2000s, described the recent assignment—reimagining the magazine’s fashion direction in honour of influential editor Susan L. Taylor—as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.” Her comments highlight the intersection of creative leadership and cultural storytelling within fashion publishing.

The shoot brought together celebrated talent and designers, working with acclaimed multimedia artist Mickalene Thomas as photographer, and drew on Macklin’s longstanding industry experience. She emphasised the collaborative effort and the significance of representation behind the scenes.

The university noted that Macklin’s professional work provides students in the Fashion Design and Merchandising program with direct insight into industry practice, mentorship and real-world creative engagement.