Atlanta /

Atlanta Fashion Week Returns October 2-7, 2024

Atlanta Fashion Week (ATLFW) is back from October 2-7, 2024, with a highly anticipated lineup of cutting-edge fashion, art, and culture. Over the course of five days, attendees will be treated to an exciting blend of runway shows, interactive pop-ups, insightful panel discussions, captivating art installations, and exclusive after-parties.

This year’s edition promises to showcase the innovation and creativity that ATLFW is known for, featuring global designers from Houston and Dallas, TX, New York, Senegal, the United Kingdom, Ghana, Nigeria, Atlanta, and beyond.

One of the most talked-about moments of the event will be the highly anticipated return of iconic brands FUBU and Coogi, each returning to the runway after 15+ years.

 

Event Highlights:

Opening Night Party (October 2): Kicking off with an invite-only party, ATLFW and Gentleman Jack will honor the founders of FUBU at this exclusive event.

Runway Shows (October 3-4): Showcasing designers from around the world, including Houston and Dallas, TX, New York, Senegal, the UK, Ghana, Nigeria, Atlanta, and more. This year will highlight a powerful fusion of cultures and fashion perspectives, all capped by the return of FUBU and COOGI.

October 4: ATLFW x Sneaker Ball Afterparty – 8pm to 1am – Stave Room

Bloomingdale’s x ATLFW will return for the 2nd Annual Pop-Up Experience (October 5-6) featuring 16 fashion and beauty brands. Attendees will also enjoy panel discussions, moderated by Dennis Murphy of The Conference Room Podcast, with guest speakers such as Edwina Kulego, VP of International & Men’s at Informa, Monica Awe-Etuk, popular content creator, and Keinon Johnson, music executive.

FUBU Archive: An Art Installation (October 7-20): FUBU’s rich legacy will be honored with an exclusive FUBU Archive installation, curated by famed artist Jiggy Korean, running from October 7-20 at Buckhead Art & Co., in partnership with Patrón. The installation will provide a unique look at FUBU’s groundbreaking journey through fashion, blending art and culture to celebrate its lasting impact.

 

Sponsors and Partners

ATLFW 2024 is proudly supported by a lineup of premier partners, including returning official automotive sponsor BMW, Fulton County Arts & Culture, FACE (Fashion Art Culture), Bloomingdale’s, Jack Daniel’s Gentleman Jack, SJC Ventures, Edition Magazine, The Look by Joi, Sneaker Ball ATL, Patrón, Buckhead Art & Co, and many more.

 

For the full event schedule and ticket information, visit www.atlantafashionweek.co.

About Atlanta Fashion Week

Atlanta Fashion Week serves as a vital incubator for fashion talent and visual artists, nurturing the development of future iconic brands. As a leading discovery platform, we support disruptors who are transforming the fashion industry with fresh perspectives and bold ideas.

Bringing together international and U.S.-based brands, Atlanta Fashion Week emphasizes strategic retail partnerships, experiential marketing, and pipeline programs to promote growth. Our platform goes beyond showcasing trendsetting designs; we create innovative programs that pave the way for brands to excel in the global market. Positioned at the intersection of fashion, art, music, and culture, we highlight a diverse array of designers, styles, and visual artists, solidifying our role in shaping the future of fashion and providing both established and emerging brands with the opportunity to scale, whether direct to consumer or through wholesale channels.

Accessories /

Malan Breton SS 2025 Collection: New York Fashion Week

Malan Breton presented his SS 2025 collection, based on the themes of Betrayal,  Revenge, and Hope during New York Fashion Week.

 

The collection, inspired by fairy tales of the 19th and 20th century, consists of strong, sinuous looks designed in leather, silk, summer weight wools, silk brocades, and the fine tailoring Breton has become internationally known for. Models were accessorized with Ladies Coutura Collection watches by Seiko Watch of America.

 

Breton composed the soundtrack for the show that was DJ’ed by Zeke Thomas (Son of Isiah Thomas) at the show which took place in New York City and was presented by EPNFW.  The hair team was led by stylist to the stars Marco Maranghello, and beauty team led by the Emmy Nominated Vincenza Carovillano. The Fashion Show was closed by star model, Elton Ilirjani.

 

An exclusive afterparty that night at DOM featured performances by Quincy, Ben Hazelwood, and the sounds of Grippa who has recently collaborated with critically acclaimed songwriter Wendy Starland, with a Deejay set by Zeke Thomas.

 

Notable Attendees included: Malan Breton, Princess Jazmin Grimaldi, Ian Mellankamp, Crystal Waters, Quincy, Jean Shafiroff, Consuelo Vanderbilt, Michael Musto, Carmen D’Alessio, SAG Award Winner Jessica Pimentel, Tony Award Winner Baayork Lee, Tony Award winner Danny Burstein, Pierre Crespeau, and Ben Hazlewood.

 

 

ABC /

Two-Time Emmy-Winning Host Tamron Hall Returns As Host and Executive Producer of the Second Longest-Running Syndicated Talk Show Produced by Disney #tamronhallshow

On the heels of celebrating its season five milestone, the nationally syndicated daytime show “Tamron Hall” will make its triumphant return for a highly anticipated sixth season on Tuesday, Sept. 3 (check local listings). Hosted and executive produced by Emmy®-winning Tamron Hall, the daily talk show’s forthcoming season kicks off with a September to remember! Can’t-miss, exclusive interviews and star-studded performances from Miranda Lambert, Quincy Brown, Chloe Bailey, Method Man, Dolly Parton, Sanaa Lathan, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Eve, Lil Rel Howery, Ina Garten, Jay Pharoah, Yara Shahidi, as well as a special live set from “The Reunion Tour” with Kirk Franklin, Yolanda Adams, Marvin Sapp and Fred Hammond. Stay tuned for more incredible guests throughout the season!

Season six will also focus on the theme of “nurture” as well as bring viewers more inspirational, entertaining and topical conversations. The season will also feature a new theme song by the seven-time GRAMMY®-nominated and NAACP Image Award-winning duo The Baylor Project.

“Tamron Hall” was recently honored with three nominations for the 2024 Daytime Emmy Awards, including Best Daytime Talk Series Host, an award Hall has won twice. The daytime talk show was also nominated for an NAACP Image Award and GLAAD Media Award in 2024. “Tamron Hall” has already become the second longest-running syndicated talk show produced by ABC News’ parent company, Disney.

Since its debut in September 2019, “Tamron Hall” continues to be one of television’s highest-rated daytime shows, consistently delivering standout moments that become central to the cultural conversation. Season five highlights included exclusive daytime interviews with Mary J. Blige, Kenan Thompson, Angela Bassett, Elizabeth Hurley, Jerrod Carmichael, Christie Brinkley, Teyana Taylor, Ronda Rousey, Druski, GloRilla, Luenell, DC Young Fly and others.

Tamron said: “I’m so grateful to the Tam Fam for all their support over the past five seasons. Season six is our love letter to the Tam Fam. It’s going to be bigger, brighter and full of surprises!”

“After celebrating our season five milestone, we couldn’t be more excited to be back in the studio with the Tam Fam for season six,” said Quiana Burns, executive producer. “We’re bringing you big exclusives, tackling topics everyone is talking about, and discovering new talent. Let’s go, Tam Fam!”

“Tamron Hall” is produced by ABC News and is distributed in national syndication by Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution. The show is executive produced by Tamron Hall and Quiana Burns. The show broadcasts from New York City and features a dynamic mix of live and taped shows.

“Tamron Hall” airs on ABC Owned Television Stations and leading broadcast groups, including Hearst, Scripps, Sinclair, CMG, Nexstar, Tegna, Gray and AMG. The ABC Owned Stations carrying “Tamron Hall” are WABC-TV New York, KABC-TV Los Angeles, WLS-TV Chicago, WPVI-TV Philadelphia, KGO-TV San Francisco, KTRK-TV Houston, WTVD-TV Raleigh-Durham and KFSN-TV Fresno.

For times and channels, go to www.TamronHallShow.com and follow the show on social media @TamronHallShow.

Accessories /

Viral TikTok IT Bag for Autumn

“Tell me your bag was designed by a woman, without telling me your bag was designed by a woman”

Jemma Bags, just went viral (5.6 Million and counting) on TikTok. Influencer, Nikkie Su, highlights why her Emma Traveler 39 is the perfect bag designed by a woman (and mom of twins) for women.

The video highlights why this bag is becoming a must-have for travelers and fashion enthusiasts alike.

Accessories /

TikTok Latest Obsession: Very Demure with Donald Pliner

Have you noticed how everyone on TikTok is suddenly all about being “demure” and “mindfully chic”? Thanks to influencer Jools Lebron. If your FYP is anything like mine, it’s been taken over by this trend that embraces a softer, more understated vibe. It’s all about subtle sophistication, timeless style, and a fresh take on modesty that feels more powerful than ever.  With “Demure Month” in full swing, take a look at a few picks from Donald Pliner that are perfect for nailing this look. Think cutesy, mindful, and effortlessly elegant.
Amazon /

Volition Beauty X Bravo Star Dr. Jackie

Exciting news: Married to Medicine Bravo Star & OBGYN Dr. Jackie is launching a Cleanser with Volition Beauty on Amazon.com to address hormonal skin imbalances. The gently foaming cream cleanser is formulated to deliver an antiseptic, anti-itch blend of skin-soothing acids to improve the look of stubborn blemishes, skin discoloration and extreme dry patches – all at the same time. Dr. Jackie says, “Speaking with my patients in the office, it became apparent that I needed to create a cleanser for hormonal skin to accompany my Skin Rhythm Serum.” 

 
THE PRODUCT:
 
Volition Skin Rhythm™ Balancing & Clearing Cleanser with Niacinamide + Salicylic Acid (MSRP $35 / 4 fl oz) is a sulfate-free, gently foaming cream cleanser formulated to deliver an antiseptic, anti-itch blend of skin-soothing acids and to improve the look of stubborn blemishes, skin discoloration and extreme dry patches – all at the same time.

 
THE INNOVATOR:

Dr. Jacqueline Walters, aka Dr. Jackie, is a women’s health expert and board-certified OB-GYN who stars on Bravo’s Married to Medicine. As a two-time breast cancer survivor, it inspired her passion to nurture the unique needs of her patients who endured hormonal skin changes just as she did. Following on from the successful launch of her Volition Skin Rhythm™ Balancing & Clearing Serum in 2021, Dr. Walters has now created an accompanying cleanser, formulated to simultaneously address irregular blemishes, excess sebum production and dry patches.
Beauty /

Benefits of Drinking Vegan Protein Powder: Naked Nutrition Protein Shake

Drinking vegan protein powder such as the Naked Strawberry Banana Protein Shake can offer several benefits, particularly for those following a plant-based diet or looking to incorporate more plant-based nutrition into their regimen. Here are some potential benefits:

Allergy-Friendly: Vegan protein powders are typically free from common allergens such as dairy, soy, and gluten, making them suitable for people with allergies or intolerances.

Digestive Health: Plant-based proteins often contain fiber, which can aid in digestion and promote gut health. They are generally easier to digest for people who are lactose intolerant.

Nutrient-Rich: Vegan protein powders often include additional nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats that are naturally present in plants.

Sustainable: Plant-based proteins tend to have a lower environmental impact than animal-based proteins, as they require fewer resources and produce less greenhouse gas emissions.

Weight Management: High in protein and often low in calories, vegan protein powders can help with weight management by promoting a feeling of fullness and supporting muscle maintenance during weight loss.

Muscle Recovery and Growth: Like other protein sources, vegan protein powders can aid in muscle recovery and growth after exercise by providing the necessary amino acids.

Heart Health: Plant-based proteins can support heart health by being low in saturated fats and cholesterol, potentially reducing the risk of heart disease.

Variety of Protein Sources: Vegan protein powders can be made from a variety of sources such as peas, hemp, rice, chia seeds, and pumpkin seeds, allowing for a diverse range of amino acid profiles and flavors.

Ethical Considerations: For those concerned about animal welfare, vegan protein powders like Naked Shake provide a cruelty-free alternative to animal-based protein supplements.

It’s important to choose a high-quality vegan protein powder that is free from artificial additives and fillers. As with any dietary supplement, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist to ensure it aligns with your individual health needs and goals.

Photo Credit:  Naked Nutrition

Celebrity /

DAY FOUR OF THE 2024 ESSENCE FESTIVAL OF CULTURE™ PRESENTED BY COCA-COLA® 

Day four of the ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® concluded the 30th birthday celebration of the cultural milestone with another round of sunrise to sunset unforgettable moments with appearances during daytime events from actress, singer, and producer Keke Palmer, voting rights activist Stacey Abrams, charttoping Afrobeats singer and actress Tiwa Savage, legendary comedian, host, and actor Rickey Smiley, iconic actress Regina Hall, award-winning R&B singer, songwriter, and dancer Mya, TV personality and entrepreneur Karen Huger, actress and TV personality Garcelle Beauvais, actress and producer Marsai Martin, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, and more! The nighttime performances gave us an incredible show with 2024 festival headliner and global icon Janet Jackson, alongside performances by Victoria Monét, SWV, Tank and The Bangas featuring Teedra Moses, Hasizzle, and Dawn Richard, and a special tribute to Frankie Beverly and Maze curated by Bryan-Michael Cox.

On the final day of the ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™, the daytime experiences ended in celebration with highlights including:

  • Producer and author DeVon Franklin led Sunday Service featuring performances by Xavier University Choir, Dillard University Choir, Warren Easton Charter High School Choir, and the NFL Players Choir on the ESSENCE Stage™.
  • Award-winning actresses Anika Noni Rose and Jenifer Lewis shared the importance of multigenerational storytelling from the big screen to the trailblazing Tiana’s Bayou Adventure attraction at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort on the ESSENCE Stage™.
  • Following the celebration of Hip-Hop 50, iconic femcees Rapsody, Lady London, and Mia X joined the ESSENCE Stage™ to explore the emerging generation of women in Hip-Hop and what’s next in a culture during a conversation moderated by DEDE McGuire.
  • Legendary comedian, host, and actor Rickey Smiley joined ESSENCE Authors™ for a conversation on his upcoming book, which explores his personal journey of navigating loss and embracing faith, followed by actor Jay Ellis sharing insights on holding space for complex truths with creativity.
  • Legendary singer Mya and celebrated wellness coach Queen Afua discussed their life changing journey to using food as fuel through veganism during a fireside chat at the ESSENCE Food & Wine Festival™.
  • NPR Tiny Desk Concert creator Bobby Carter stopped by the SUEDE: Men’s Experience™ (formerly known as In His Zone) to share the behind-the-scenes of the increasingly growing roster of artists and icons who have performed at the platform, followed by seasoned sports journalists Stephen A. Smith and Jemele Hill leading a discussion of the state of Black representation in sports broadcasting. 
  • ESSENCE Wellness House® concluded the exploration of the intersectionalities of healthy lifestyles by delving into the mysteries of African astrology with Samuel F. Reynolds.
  • Senior Beauty Editor at Well+Good Aimee Simeon, media personality Chanen Johnson and ESSENCE Lifestyle Editor, Victoria Uwumarogie explored how beauty routines have adapted in their lives after becoming mothers at BEAUTYCON™: @ESSENCEFEST Edition.
  • The AFROPUNK BLKTOPIA™ stage was a utopia of musical performances and artistic rebellion, immersing audiences into a world that dismantles oppressive stereotypes. Notable celebrities like Samuel Reynolds, TREYYPOUND, and Kanene Ayo Holder graced the stage, mesmerizing attendees with their Afrobeats vibes.
  • Notable speakers and panelists at the NEW VOICES ENTREPRENEUR HUB™ included industry leaders such as Co-Founder of SHE Breaks Barriers  Breonna James, Empowerment Expert and Founder of Aware Network Corp Kenyatta “Young” Nelson, and CEO and Founder of The Powerhouse NYC  Aneilia Murphy in shared insights on building successful ventures, accessing funding, and navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship.
  • ESSENCE® GU® CREATORS HOUSE hosted an array of renowned content creators, industry experts, and cultural icons for an unforgettable day including Taty Cokley, Clarke Peoples, Karen Huger and Rayvin Huger. The event showcased a dynamic lineup of discussions, and experiences focused on elevating the voices and stories of Black creatives. Attendees engaged in thought-provoking conversations on the future of content creation, the impact of social media on personal narratives, and the importance of representation in all forms of media. 

The highest grossest performer in the 30-year history of ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™, global icon Janet Jackson, took music devotees on a journey through her career, followed by the a farewell and tribute performance to the legendary Frankie Beverly and Maze curated by the multifaceted Grammy-award winning producer and songwriter Bryan Michael-Cox featuring surprise performances by Grammy-award winning R&B singer Anthony Hamilton, R&B singer and songwriter Bilal, Grammy-nominated R&B songstress and songwriter Lil’ Mo, and chart-topping R&B group Jagged Edge. Alongside performances from Grammy-award winning singer, producer, and songwriter Victoria Monét with special guest Lucky Daye, legendary R&B group SWV, a tribute to rich cultural heritage of New Orleans musicians featuring Grammy-nominated musical group Tank and the Bangas with Teedra Moses, Hasizzle, and Dawn Richard. 

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JULY 07: (L-R) Bridget Kelly, Corey Stokes, SVP, Creative, Essence Ventures, Zerina Akers and Sergio Hudson speak during the 2024 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 07, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Marcus Ingram/Getty Images for ESSENCE)

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JULY 07: Mya performs onstage during the 2024 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 07, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Marcus Ingram/Getty Images for ESSENCE)

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JULY 07: (L-R) Tiffany Cross, Crystal Mason, Andrew Gillum, Jasmine Crockett and Angela Rye speak during the 2024 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 07, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for ESSENCE)

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JULY 07: (L-R) Richelieu Dennis, Founder & Chairman, Essence Ventures and Tarun Malkani, CEO, PDC Brand speaks during the 2024 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 07, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Erika Goldring/Getty Images for ESSENCE)

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JULY 07: D-Nice speaks during the 2024 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 07, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for ESSENCE)

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JULY 07:(L-R) Romney Edwards, Kendyll Locke, Sesha Joi Moon, Jasmine Crockett, Adjoa B. Asamoah and Jennifer Willis attend the 2024 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 07, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for ESSENCE)

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JULY 07: (L-R) LeLee Lyons, Coko and Taj George from SWV perform onstage during Day 3 of the 2024 ESSENCE Festival of Culture presented by Coca-Cola at Caesars Superdome on July 07, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images for ESSENCE)

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JULY 07: Frankie Beverly receives a gift onstage during Day 3 of the 2024 ESSENCE Festival of Culture presented by Coca-Cola at Caesars Superdome on July 07, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images for ESSENCE)

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JULY 07: Ayanna Pressley attends during the 2024 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 07, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for ESSENCE)

Beauty /

DAY THREE OF THE 2024 ESSENCE FESTIVAL OF CULTURE™ PRESENTED BY COCA-COLA

Day three of the ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® continued to serve attendees with unforgettable daytime experiences with appearances from the first Black woman Vice President Kamala Harris at the Global Black Economic Forum HQ in a candid “Chief to Chief” conversation with ESSENCE Ventures President and CEO Caroline Wanga. One of the greatest athletes of all-time, an entrepreneur and style icon Serena Williams made her debut during the history of the ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® during BEAUTYCON™: @ESSENCEFEST Edition and inaugural ESSENCE Black Women in Business Dinner.

Vice President Kamala Harris held a candid “Chief to Chief” conversation with ESSENCE President and CEO Caroline Wanga at the GBEF® HQ Experience stage. For 50 years, ESSENCE has taught Black women how to unleash their power shared by Wagna. With less than 122 days left before the election for the next Presidential administration in the United States, Harris urged attendees of the ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® to enter rooms with their shoulders back and chin up.

Ernest N. Morial Convention Center was filled with an indescribable joy that festival-goers could experience as day three continued with a full spectrum of unmatched daytime experiences. Highlights include:

  • A full day of panels at the ESSENCE Stage™, including:

o    Actress Emayatzy Corinealdi and actors Morris Chestnut and McKinley Freeman provided fans with a behind-the-scenes look at Season 2 of the Hulu series Reasonable Doubt during a fireside chat.

o    Actor Aldis Hodge delved into the mind of Detective Cross and shares how his version of the popular character encapsulates brotherhood, family, and Black love. 

o    Producer Carlos King kept it real(ity) with some of the biggest names in Black Reality TV, the pioneer of bounce Big Freedia, entrepreneur Yandy Smith-Harris,  entrepreneur and TV personality Toya Johnson-Rushing.

o    Mothers of two of the biggest superstars in NBA history, Sonya Curry and Lucille O’Neal, alongside Michelle L. Rice, President of TV One and CLEO TV engaged in a candid conversation around nurturing the talent and minds of children destined for greatness.

  • One of the greatest athletes of all-time, an entrepreneur and style icon Serena Williams made an appearance during BEAUTYCON™: @ESSENCEFEST Edition in a conversion on channeling her passions into a profitable business model on and off the courts.
  • New Orleans rapper Treety, singer and songwriter 4Batz and the “City Cinderella,” Miami-bred chart-topping femcee JT gave performances at the ESSENCE® GU® Kickback, hosted by actress and entrepreneur Skai Jackson and content creator Raymonte.
  • Legendary actress and producer Sanaa Lathan, award-winning actor Morris Chestnut, trailblazing author, writer and thought leader dream hampton, actress Meagan Good brought Black Hollywood to New Orleans during a candid conversation at ESSENCE Film Festival® by ESSENCE STUDIOS™.
  • Actor Lance Gross and TV personality, host, and actor Terrance J. explored how their education at a HBCU influenced their successful Hollywood careers at the Suede: Men’s Experience™ (formerly known as In His Zone).
  • The ESSENCE Authors™ experience on Saturday, July 6th, featured an impressive lineup of authors and literary voices. Notable participants included politician Bakari Sellers, romance pioneers of romance novels Beverly Jenkins, Brenda Jackson, and Donna Hill – showcasing a diverse range of topics and genres, highlighting the richness of contemporary literature and the importance of storytelling in shaping culture and understanding.
  • The NEW VOICES ENTREPRENEUR HUB™ offered practical workshops, mentorship sessions, and networking opportunities,  and featured a vibrant celebration of Black entrepreneurship. Attendees engaged in insightful discussions with renowned founders and business leaders, including fashion icon Tracy Reese, and technology expert Iddris Sandu. The day’s programming culminated in a captivating keynote address by branding expert Mellody Hobson, who shared invaluable lessons on building successful businesses.

This inaugural ESSENCE Black Women in Business Dinner brought together an exclusive group of Black women across making strides across varying industries and fields for a private ceremony at the Four Seasons New Orleans honoring Serena Williams (Investor of the Year Award), Thasunda Brown Duckett (CEO of the Year Award), Esi Eggleston Bracey (Transformer of the Year Award), and Laysha Ward (Community Investment Pioneer Award). As the leading global brand for Black women, ESSENCE launched “Black Women in…” as a series of events to highlight the achievements of Black Women pioneers to applaud the monumental successes and contributions they continue to make. Given the challenges Black women in business face, we are thrilled to continue our tradition of celebrating our own by hosting an exclusive ceremony that will bring together notable women across industries and fields, ESSENCE senior executives, stakeholders, partners, and major media outlets.  Notable attendees include  activist Reverend Al Sharpton, businesswoman Valeisha Butterfeild, entrepreneurs Derek Hayes, and Pinky Cole. The 2024 ESSENCE Black Women in Business Dinner was hosted by Rashida Jones and sponsored by Entergy, Diageo, and Visa.

During nighttime performances, Grammy-award winning singer USHER gave a special one-night only performance of his generation defining album Confessions in its entirety. Legendary R&B singer and 8x ESSENCE Festival performer, Charlie Wilson, returned to the stage for the 8th time in the history of the ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola®, alongside performances from one of the best DJs of the culture D-Nice in a special presentation of his global sensation, Club Quarantine Live, featuring icons of hip hop, latin jazz funk, R&B and soca including Method Man, Sheila E, Big Boi, Donell Jones, Tweet, Machel Montano and Lloyd and the highly anticipated reunion of R&B supergroup, TGT (Tyrese, Ginuwine & Tank).

Accessories /

Stylish Summer Finds: Shopping for Fashion on a Budget

As the temperatures rise and the days grow longer, it’s time to refresh your wardrobe with some chic summer essentials. But fear not, fashionistas on a budget! You don’t need to break the bank to stay on-trend this season. With a little creativity and savvy shopping, you can score some fabulous summer fashion finds without emptying your wallet. From breezy dresses to versatile accessories, here’s your guide to shopping for summer fashion on a budget.

  1. Thrift Shopping: One of the best ways to find unique summer pieces at affordable prices is by hitting up thrift stores and consignment shops. You’d be amazed at the treasures you can unearth – from vintage sundresses to statement accessories. Keep an open mind and be prepared to hunt through racks, and you might just score some one-of-a-kind gems that won’t break the bank.
  2. Online Deals and Discounts: Take advantage of online deals and discounts to snag some stylish summer staples at a fraction of the cost. Many retailers offer seasonal sales and promotions, so keep an eye out for flash sales, coupon codes, and clearance events. Sign up for email newsletters and follow your favorite brands on social media to stay in the loop about upcoming sales and special offers.
  3. Mix and Match: Get creative with your existing wardrobe by mixing and matching pieces to create fresh summer looks. Pair a breezy maxi skirt with a basic tank top, or layer a lightweight cardigan over a sundress for a versatile ensemble that can take you from day to night. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations and accessories to elevate your summer style without spending a fortune.
  4. DIY Fashion: Put your creativity to the test by DIY-ing some of your summer fashion essentials. Transform an old pair of jeans into trendy cutoff shorts, or give a plain t-shirt a stylish makeover with some fabric paint or embellishments. Not only is DIY fashion budget-friendly, but it also allows you to put your own personal stamp on your summer wardrobe.
  5. End-of-Season Sales: If you’re willing to wait until the end of the season, you can score some incredible deals on summer fashion during clearance sales. Retailers often slash prices on seasonal items to make room for new inventory, so keep an eye out for markdowns on swimwear, sandals, and lightweight clothing as summer comes to a close. It may require a bit of patience, but the savings are well worth it.

Featured Photo from USA Today

Conclusion: Shopping for summer fashion on a budget doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little creativity, resourcefulness, and savvy shopping, you can build a stylish summer wardrobe that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re scouring thrift stores for hidden treasures or taking advantage of online deals and discounts, there are plenty of ways to stay on-trend without overspending. So go ahead, embrace your inner fashionista, and strut your stuff in chic summer style – all while keeping your budget intact.

Happy shopping!