DEADLINE FOR ESSENCE+ULTA BEAUTY BEAUTIFUL POSSIBILITIES 2.0 #ESSENCEGirlsUnited

The application deadline is quickly approaching for ESSENCE + Ulta Beauty Girls United: Beautiful Possibilities 2.0!

As previously announced, ESSENCE and Ulta Beauty will partner once again for this powerful mentorship initiative, where six young women (ages 16-19) will embark on a journey of tapping into their entrepreneurial and creative spirit and discovering their personal potential. The women selected for this program will have the opportunity of a lifetime—including the chance to work on a special capsule collection for Ulta Beauty, being mentored by top beauty industry leaders and influencers, and receiving $10,000 that can be put towards college.

 Applications are open until this Sunday, November 30th. For more details on ESSENCE Girls United: Beautiful Possibilities 2.0, visit http://www.essence.com/BeautifulPossibilities, or join the conversation on social #ESSENCEGirlsUnited #BeautifulPossibilities.

What Should I Wear: Comfortable and Chic Thanksgiving Outfits Part II

While we plan our holiday menu there’s also a question of what should I wear?  This can be a tricky task because you want to dress comfortable and chic.

Featured Photo from BLOGLOVIN

Start pulling looks early if you want to look your best.  For example, stand in the mirror and asset what’s relaxed to wear during a full day of activities. Do you prefer fleece leggings or skinny jeans?

Next, consider the fit and occasion of the day.  Does your family (and friends) dress up for Thanksgiving dinner or wear casual attire?  If you don’t have something in your closet visit affordable stores such as Target or your favorite retailer for a luxury piece.

The choice is yours; most importantly wear something that makes you look and feel your best!

Photos are Pinterest.com
Oversized Sweater and Ripped Jeans
Sweater Dress and Over The Knee Boots
Chambray Shirt and Ankara Skirt

 

 

Teddy Coat and Skinny Jeans

 

Run-DMC and New York Knicks Collaboration Merch Launches

Three New York legends, Run-DMC, the New York Knicks, and Chase Bank, have come together to create an exclusive 5 piece merch collection that will be dropping exclusively at Chase Square in Madison Square Garden from November 23 – November 24, during two back-to-back Knicks home games. The limited-edition collection will be showcased in a customized build-out in the square, which is open to the public, while the Brooklyn designer duo – The GriggsBrothas – will be offering customized patches for all customers who purchase a product using their Chase credit card.

This new interactive fan experience between Chase and Bravado, connecting two New York icons Run-DMC and the New York Knicks, was orchestrated by Universal Music Group & Brands (UMGB), the brands and partnerships division of Universal Music Group (UMG), the world leader in music-based entertainment.

Holiday Gift Set from KORRES Natural Skincare Products

KORRES has bottled up the intoxicating scents of Greece that capture the magical moment when the sun kisses the sea. Debuting December 1st, KORRES will introduce The Indulgence Collection, a series of limited-edition holiday gift sets, each featuring a super-sized luxurious Shower gel (1L) and Body Butter (400 ML) duo.

The Indulgence Collection is available for only $39 and offered in five scents:

  • NEW! Mediterranean Vanilla Blossom: A creamy vanilla, delicately wrapped in soft white florals warmed by the Mediterranean sun.
  • NEW! Unscented: Pure & unscented, this rich, luxurious body butter to deeply soften, smooth, and nourish the skin.
  • White Grape: Crisp fresh white grape, wrapped in soft peach blossom, with a hint of Aegean Sea breeze.
  • Cucumber Bamboo: Dive into this lush & delicate scent of Cucumber and Bamboo – tranquil & pure.
  • Cashmere Rose: Envelop your senses with petal-soft wild roses warmed by the Mediterranean sun.

Click here to learn more about skincare products.

A Sneak Peek of Amazon’s #BlackFriday Deals Week

Amazon today shared a sneak peek of top deals for its Black Friday deals week, which will offer customers new deals all day, every day totaling thousands of amazing deals across every category, plus more Deals of the Day and deeper discounts than ever before. Starting this Friday, November 22 through November 29 (Black Friday), customers can shop thousands of incredible deals on this year’s most popular gifts, new and trending finds, holiday essentials, and more, across toys, electronics, fashion, beauty, kitchen, home, Amazon Devices and more. All of Amazon’s Black Friday deals can be found by visiting amazon.com/blackfriday or on the Amazon App. Customers can also shop on smile.amazon.com/blackfriday to find the same amazing deals and Amazon shopping experience, with the added bonus that AmazonSmile will donate a portion of the purchase price of eligible products to a charity of your choice.

On top of the wide selection of deals and discounts available throughout Amazon’s week of Black Friday deals, customers can also take advantage of select one-time-only, amazing deals from top-tier and most-loved brands across electronics, home, fashion, toys and more, all at jaw-dropping prices. These deals are expected to sell out, with new one-time-only deals launching throughout the day on November 28 (Thanksgiving), November 29 (Black Friday) and December 2 (Cyber Monday).

Whether customers are getting a head start on their gift lists, readying their homes for family festivities or grocery shopping for holiday feasts, Amazon makes the holidays easier than ever with top deals and low prices. In fact, according to a recent Profitero study, Amazon prices were found to be 20% cheaper on average than other online retailers.

BLACK FRIDAY DEALS PREVIEW:

The deals included below – and many more – will be available on various dates and times between November 22 and November 29 (Black Friday), while supplies last, at amazon.com/blackfriday, on the Amazon App, or by simply asking “Alexa, what are my deals.”

Amazon Devices

Amazon Brands

  • Save up to 50% on men’s and women’s clothing from Amazon Brands, including Amazon Essentials, Goodthreads, Daily Ritual, and The Drop
  • Save up to 30% on bedding & bath for the family from AmazonBasics, Stone & Beam and Rivet
  • Save up to 30% on furniture from Rivet and Stone & Beam
  • Save up to 30% on office furniture and supplies from AmazonBasics
  • Save up to 30% on phone accessories from AmazonBasics
  • Save up to 30% on kitchen electrics and housewares from AmazonBasics & Stone & Beam
  • Save up to 30% on luggage and travel from AmazonBasics
  • Save up to 25% on food and beverages from Amazon brands, including AmazonFresh, Happy Belly and Wickedly Prime
  • Save 25% on household supplies and personal care from Solimo
  • Save up to 15% on beauty, vitamins, and supplements from Amazon brands including Belei and Revly

Fashion

  • Save up to 35% on Herschel backpacks, wallets, hip packs, and more
  • Save up to 50% on Oakley & Ray-Ban sunglasses
  • Save up to 30% on Calvin Klein underwear
  • Save up to 35% on the newest Fossil smartwatches
  • Save up to 35% on Adidas shoes, clothing, and accessories for the family
  • Save up to 40% on Levi’s for the family
  • Save up to 50% on Lands’ End clothing and accessories
  • Save up to 30% on Tommy Hilfiger clothing
  • Save up to 50% on top watch brands including Daniel Wellington, Movado, and more
  • Save up to 40% on Under Armour for the family
  • Save up to 30% on men’s dress shirts
  • Save up to 30% on Izod clothing
  • Save up to 50% on Samsonite and American Tourister luggage
  • Save 35% on 14K gold diamond stud earrings

Electronics

  • Save on Samsung, Sony, and LG TVs
  • Save on Samsung Galaxy S10 and Note 10
  • Save up to 45% on streaming devices and accessories
  • Save up to 30% on select Nintendo Switch Software
  • Save up to 33% on select Nintendo Joy-Con
  • Save on Canon and Nikon cameras
  • Save on Headphones from Bose, Sony, and other top brands
  • Save on Nintendo Switch Console with Digital Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
  • Save on Xbox One
  • Save on PC gaming laptops, desktops, monitors, components, and accessories
  • Save up to 33% on Play Station 4 Slim 1TB bundle
  • Save on Oculus Rift S
  • Save on Garmin smartwatches
  • Save 30% on select cell phone cases
  • Save on Klipsch speakers
  • Save on Jabra Elite Active 65t Earbuds
  • Save up to 35% on select iOttie Car Mount Phone Holders
  • Save on Garmin Forerunner 235 and DriveSmart
  • Save up to 40% on Corsair gaming products and accessories
  • Save up to 45% on Netgear products
  • Save 40% on Adobe Photoshop Elements 2020
  • Save up to 50% on Brother printers
  • Save up to 60% on HP Deskjet 2622
  • Save $30 on HP Sprocket 2nd Edition
  • Save 30% on MYNT3D Professional Printing 3D Pen
  • Save $50 off Microsoft Office Home and Student 2019
  • Save over 70% on new Norton 360 Premium
  • Save on Kodak and Polaroid photo printers
  • Save on SanDisk and WD
  • Receive a $10 Gift Card with purchase of TurboTax Software

Toys

  • Save 15% on L.O.L. Surprise! Winter Disco Bigger Surprise (Amazon Exclusive)
  • Save 40% on the LEGO Star Wars Ultimate Millennium Falcon
  • Save 40% on tricycles and the 3-in-1 Wagon from Radio Flyer
  • Save 40% on the KidKraft Cinderella Royal Dream House
  • Save 40% on the Little Tikes Bake n’ Grow Kitchen
  • Save up to 30% on select strategy games
  • Save up to 30% on Glitter Girls fashion dolls and accessories
  • Save up to 30% on Barbie, Hot Wheels and more from Mattel
  • Save up to 30% on select party games

 Household, Kitchen and Home Furnishings

  • Save up to 30% on SodaStream sparkling water makers
  • Save on Hamilton Beach
  • Save up to 35% on Vitamix
  • Save on Nespresso
  • Save on Dash Appliances
  • Save up to 44% on KitchenAid
  • Save on Instant Pot
  • Save on Conitgo Water bottles, Food Saver and Rubbermaid food containers
  • Save up to 25% on select mattresses
  • Save on Ashley Mattresses
  • Save up to 48% on Degrees of Comfort weighted blankets
  • Save up to 15% on Bissell Lifestyle 220
  • Save up to 19% on Bissell SpotClean Pro
  • Save on Casper Sleep Soft and Supima Cotton Sheet
  • Save up to 37% on Bissell Icon Pet Stick
  • Save up to 41% on Ecovacs N79S
  • Save up to 36% off Ecovacs Deebot 661
  • Save up to 26% Bissell Crosswave
  • Save up to 19% on Bissell SpotClean Pro
  • Save up to 22% on Bissell MyAir
  • Save up to 20% on Oreck Commercial XL Commercial Upright Vacuums
  • Save on AIRMEGA 400S The Smarter App Ena
  • Save on Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Protect Waterproof Mattress Protector
  • Save up to 15% on Bissell Lifestyle 220
  • Save on TEMPUR Adapt Plus Cooling Topper
  • Eureka NEN110A Whirlwind Bagless Canister
  • Save on Sunbeam Cordless or Corded Iron
  • Save up to 50% on Simplisafe 12-Piece Security System
  • Save up to 20% on Kidde products
  • Save up to 30% on Hunter ceiling fans
  • Save up to 30% on DeWalt tools
  • Save up to 30% on select SKIL tools
  • Save up to 25% on BLACK+DECKER drill kit
  • Save up to 15% on Opal Countertop Nugget Icemaker
  • Save 15% on NewAir Dual Zone Beverage Cooler

Smart Home

  • Save on Chamberlain MyQ Garage Hub at $17.98
  • Save on iRobot Roomba 960 at $399.00
  • Save on iRobot Roomba 675 at $199.99
  • Save on the new LG 82″ 4K Ultra HD Smart LED TV at $1,699.99
  • Save up to $79.90 on Arlo Technologies products
  • Save on Shark IQ Robotic Vacuum at $399.99
  • Save over 30% on Netgear wifi & routers
  • Save $200 on Sony Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos and Wireless Subwoofer
  • Save up to 39% on ecobee SmartThermostat and Switch bundle

Lawn & Garden

  • Save up to 35% on holiday live plants
  • Save on the Sun Joe SPX4000-PRO Pressure Washer
  • Save 35% on Greenworks 80V outdoor power tools
  • Save up to 30% on Keter Cool Bar & more
  • Save up to 35% on fire pits and patio heaters

Audible, Music, Video & Books

  • Audible: Between November 25 and 27, new members receive a bonus $15 Amazon credit and continue to save 53% on the first three months of an Audible membership at $6.95 a month. Additional offers to be announced through the holiday season.
  • For a limited time, new Amazon Music Unlimited customers can get the best holiday deal in Amazon Music’s history- four months of the premium streaming tier for just $0.99, to enjoy unlimited access to more than 50 million songs, ad-free.
  • With the purchase of select Echo devices, new Amazon Music Unlimited customers in the US, UK, Germany, and Japan will also receive four months of the premium, ad-free streaming tier for free.
  • Prime Video: Between November 29 and December 5, Prime members can enjoy 50% off to rent or buy on new release movies.
  • The Kacey Musgraves Christmas Show, Prime Video’s first foray into the holiday special spacewill premiere globally on Friday, November 29. The Kacey Musgraves Christmas Show will also be accompanied by an official soundtrack available on Amazon Music and other DSPs beginning November 29. Learn more at amazon.com/kaceychristmas
  • Get 3 months of Kindle Unlimited for free – Enjoy unlimited access to over 1 million books, popular magazines and thousands of books with Audible narration. Offer valid for new subscribers only.
  • Get $10 back in eBook credit when you spend $30 on eBooks (activation required).
  • Save up to 80% on select Kindle best-selling books
  • Save up to 50% on Popular Children Books

Pets

  • Save 33% on Furbo Treat Tossing Wifi Pet Camera
  • Save up 35% on Wisdom Panel Dog DNA Kit
  • Save up to 30% on Frontline Oral Defense Daily Dental Chews
  • Save up to 15% on Nutramax products for dogs and cats
  • Save 30% on PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Dog and Cat Feeder
  • Save 30% on select Greenies dog treats
  • Save 30% on Temptations cat treats
  • Save 30% on Cesar gourmet dog food

Sports & Outdoors

  • Save up to 40% on the adidas Diablo duffel bag
  • Save up to 35% on select Columbia outerwear, apparel, and shoes
  • Save up to 25% on Thule backpacks and luggage
  • Save more than 25% on golf training aids, including Arccos Caddie Smart Sensors
  • Save up to 25% on Osprey packs & accessories
  • Save up to 20% on bestsellers from Coleman
  • Save up to 30% on fishing gear from Abu Garcia, Berkley, Penn, Ugly Stik, and more
  • Save up to 15% on stand up paddle boards from Serenelife
  • Save up to 30% on hunting essentials from Plano Synergy
  • Save up to 15% on Marcy exercise equipment
  • Save on the Bowflex Max Trainer M7
  • Save on Bushnell golf products, including rangefinders, GPS, and watches
  • Save 20% or more on Segway electric scooters and personal transporters
  • Save 20% on Huffy adult and kids bikes
  • Save on Callaway golf balls, headwear, and golf bags
  • Save on JOOLA table tennis tables and more
  • Save more than 15% on select GoSports favorites, including wood premium cornhole set, giant wooden toppling tower, and more

Beauty

  • Save up to 45% on Philips Sonicare appliances and brush heads
  • Save up to 40% on Aquaphor, NIVEA, and Eucerin
  • Save 30% on Panasonic electric razor for men
  • Save 20% on L’Oreal Paris brow stylist definers
  • Save up to 40% on professional and luxury beauty skincare, cosmetics, fragrance, hair and more
  • Save up to 33% on select luxury beauty devices and accessories

Health and Personal Care

  • Save up to 50% on 23andMe DNA tests
  • Save up to $60 on select Fitbit items
  • Save up to 30% on select nutrition and wellness items
  • Save 15% on Body Fortress whey protein powder
  • Save 30% or more on Duracell batteries
  • Save $70 on AncestryHealth Core™ Health + Genetic Ethnicity Test

Automotive

  • Save on Hella Sharptone Twin Horn Kits
  • Save on Camco Yellow Fasten Leveling Blocks

 

Amazon Payments and Gift Cards

Small Businesses on Amazon Handmade and Amazon Launchpad

  • Save 20% or more on Amazon Handmade products from around the world – shop deals and the gift guide at www.amazon.com/handmadegiftguide.
  • Save up to 35% on top-selling iOttie Wireless accessories
  • Save on Dash appliances
  • Save up to 35% on select party games for grown-ups including Exploding Kittens
  • Save up to 44% on Geekee True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds
  • Save 15% or more on select LuminAID Solar phone chargers and lanterns

Grocery

  • Save 25% or more on select Jack Link’s beef jerky
  • Save up to 30% on select Victor Allen’s coffee packs
  • Save 15% on select TAZO K-Cup pods
  • Save 20% on select Soylent meal replacement shakes and protein bars
  • Save 35% on Tea Forte tea gifts for the holiday season

 

Whole Foods Market

  • Amazon and Whole Foods Market are offering special savings on organic and classic turkeys in celebration of Thanksgiving. All customers can choose from select organic ($3.49/lb) and classic turkeys ($2.49/lb), and Prime members will save even more on turkeys ($2.99/lb for organic and $1.99/lb for classic). The offer is valid until November 28, while supplies last. Prime members can also receive exclusive deals on organic jewel sweet potatoes ($1.29/lb), organic cranberries ($2.69/12-oz bag), and Bonafide frozen broths and soups (35% off).

 

DISCOVER THE SEASON’S HOTTEST GIFTS

Customers can also shop Amazon’s biggest-ever selection of curated gift guides and exclusive storefronts this year, which offer gifting inspiration and more:

  • Interesting Finds curates some of the most interesting and fun products that customers are sure to love. You are able to “like” certain products and will be shown similar items in the future. Explore even more curated collections of Stocking Stuffers and White Elephant gifts.

Gift Cards:

 

MORE WAYS TO SHOP

In addition to amazon.com/blackfriday, customers can shop Amazon’s week of Black Friday deals in the following ways:

  • Amazon.com in Spanish: Customers can visit Amazon.com/espanol or use the Amazon App to shop, browse and search for millions of products, view their carts, and place orders in Spanish.
  • Amazon App: The Amazon App allows customers to conveniently shop for their holiday needs – anytime and anywhere – and, never miss a great deal. Customers can use the Watch a Deal feature to “Watch a Lightning Deal” and receive a notification on their mobile phone when the deal is about to start. Additionally, first-time app users have an opportunity to save big this holiday. New customers will receive $10 the first time they sign-in to the Amazon App and an additional $15 when they make their first purchase on the app.
  • Alexa Shopping: Customers can add to their Amazon wish list with Alexa by saying, “Alexa, add headphones to my wish list” and track packages and confirm your delivery date with Alexa by saying, “Alexa, where’s my stuff?”
  • Amazon Business: Save big when shopping for work with deals on everything you need for your business. Find deals on supplies for the office holiday party, employee and client gifts, and items for community donation drives. Stock-up for the new year with savings on the business essentials you need. Visit amazon.com/holidayforbusiness. For more information and to sign up for a free business account, visit amazon.com/business.
  • Amazon Books: Whether customers want to discover a new book for the holidays, test-drive a device, or purchase Amazon Gift Cards, Amazon Books offers gifts for everyone. To find the store nearest you visit www.amazon.com/stores.
  • Amazon 4-star: Designed around Amazon.com customers, Amazon 4-star stores feature products that are 4 stars and above, top sellers, new and trending, and most popular from top categories including devices, consumer electronics, toys, games, books, kitchen, home. To find the store nearest you visit www.amazon.com/stores.
  • Amazon Live: Watch Amazon Live’s shoppable Black Friday live stream throughout the day on November 29 for demonstrations on top deal products and cameo appearances from celebrities you love. Tune-in starting at 4am PST by visiting www.amazon.com/live.
  • Treasure Truck: Discover great gifts you never thought of on Treasure Truck. Opt-in by texting ‘TRUCK’ to 24193 and receive notifications for same-day offers – order the item and pick up at the truck the same day. This Black Friday, gift-givers who act fast will find an incredible deal on a holiday-must-have tech item on the truck in select cities, while supplies last.
  • Whole Foods Market: Prime members who shop at Whole Foods Market have access to a number of benefits year-round, like deep discounts on dozens of select popular products each week and an additional 10 percent off hundreds of in-store items. Additionally, Prime members in thousands of cities and towns can shop their local Whole Foods Market store using Amazon.com or the Amazon App.
  • Woot! offers daily deals on customers’ favorite brands and free shipping for Prime members. Visit woot.com from November 24 through November 29 or download the Woot! App for great deals.

 

GIVE BACK THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, AND BEYOND

Amazon is committed to making holiday giving and giving-back easier than ever.

  • AmazonSmile: To jump right into holiday shopping and support your favorite charitable organization at the same time, simply visit smile.amazon.com/blackfriday. By starting with smile.amazon.com, you’ll find the same Amazon experience, with the added bonus that we’ll donate a portion of the purchase price of eligible products to a charity of your choice.
  • Charity Lists: Charity Lists give charitable organizations an easy way to create wish lists of products needed while providing a convenient way for customers to donate these essential items directly to the causes. Customers are able to contribute items that are truly critical, to charities they care about, no matter how big or small. Customers can shop thousands of Charity Lists by visiting smile.amazon.com/charitylists, with new charities joining all the time.
  • (RED) Shopathon: For the third year, Amazon is teaming up with (RED), the charitable organization founded by Bono and Bobby Shriver in 2006, to fight AIDS. Amazon is providing customers a single destination to shop more than 150 (RED) products, including the exclusive (RED) edition of the all-new Echo, which will be available for a limited time. For every all-new Echo (RED) edition sold, Amazon will donate $10 to the Global Fund. Plus, customers interested in donating to support (RED)’s fight can do so on any Echo device by simply asking, “Alexa, donate to (RED).” (RED) products will be available starting today at amazon.com/red.

 

HOLIDAY DELIVERY MADE EASY

In addition to free delivery on more than 100 million items for all Amazon customers, Amazon has expanded its fast, free, and convenient delivery options for Prime members and customers this holiday season:

 

Fast and Reliable One-Day and Same-Day Delivery. Throughout the season, Prime members in the U.S. can shop a selection of over 10 million items for Prime Free One-Day Delivery and millions of items available for Same-Day Delivery in 46 major metropolitan areas. Not a Prime member yet? Join Prime or start a 30-day free trial at amazon.com/prime.

 

Ultrafast and FREE grocery delivery: Now Prime members get free and fast grocery delivery from Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods Market. The selection includes a variety of products for all your holiday needs from meat to, seafood, produce, snacks, and household essentials, with options for fast one- and two-hour delivery windows. Prime members who live in one of the more than 2,000 cities and towns where grocery delivery is available can request an invitation to shop Amazon Fresh or Whole Foods Market delivery. Learn more at amazon.com/grocery.

Pick-up and delivery on your terms: This holiday season, customers can pick-up their packages at a number of Amazon Hub locations including thousands of in-store staffed Counter pickup points across the U.S. within Rite Aid, GNC, and Stage stores, as well as at Health Mart independent pharmacies. Additionally, tens of millions of products can be easily and conveniently delivered to 900 cities and towns across the country via Locker or Locker+. To find an Amazon Hub location, visit amazon.com/Hub. In addition, Prime members in 50 U.S. cities and surrounding areas can also enjoy secure, convenient package delivery with Key by Amazon (amazon.com/key).

  

Michael Andrews Bespoke Launches Custom-Fit Womenswear Collection

Michael Andrews Bespoke (MAB), New York’s premier custom tailor, today announces its expansion into bespoke womenswear. Founded in 2006, the company has earned an international reputation for the fit and style of its bespoke menswear – now it aims to do the same for women.

“There’s an acute shortage of well made, custom-fit womenswear in the marketplace,” says Michael Andrews, the company’s founder & CEO. “While men have long enjoyed the benefits of true bespoke tailoring, we’re excited to now offer this same exceptional service to women. The need for exquisitely crafted attire has never been greater.”

Michael and his team spent over two years developing the new women’s range, which includes investment-worthy suits, separates, shirts, formal wear, and outerwear.

Fittings are by-appointment at the company’s NoHo flagship, tucked discreetly down a private alley and complete with a fully stocked bar. Clients work one-on-one with an expert stylist who guides them through the process, helping select fit, fabric, and design details that compliment the client’s lifestyle and tastes. The stylist then works with the company’s in-house pattern maker and tailors to realize the client’s vision.

Bespoke suits start at $1,995. First-time orders typically require three appointments and take approximately 8 – 10 weeks for delivery, with subsequent orders typically delivered in 6 weeks.

About Michael Andrews Bespoke

Michael Andrews Bespoke is a by-appointment custom tailor in Manhattan’s NoHo neighborhood. For over a decade, Michael and his team have crafted some of the world’s finest garments for clients who demand nothing less than the best. The company’s master tailors construct each bespoke garment by hand to the client’s exact specifications, delivering garments of remarkable character and peerless quality. This commitment to excellence has inspired loyalty in the company’s diverse clientele that includes Wall Street luminaries, Fortune 500 CEOs, world-class athletes, and award-winning actors and musicians. For more information and to set up an appointment visit: www.michaelandrews.com

ESSENCE’S “YES, GIRL!” PODCAST TALKS TO ROBYN CRAWFORD: TRUTH ABOUT LIFE WITH WHITNEY HOUSTON

In the latest episode of ESSENCE’s Yes, Girl! podcast, hosts Cori Murray and Charli Penn talk to Whitney Houston’s confidante Robyn Crawford—who reveals a side of the iconic singer that only ESSENCE can share.

While at the height of a whirlwind tour promoting her book, A Song For You: My Life With Whitney Houston, Crawford shares her own truth with the Yes, Girl! team on life with Houston—weighing in on everything from their bond, the first time they met, their friendship after Houston’s ex-husband Bobby Brown came on the scene and more. She shares with ESSENCE’s Yes, Girl! (time codes included):

  • ON WHAT WHITNEY WOULD WANT [12:09-12:35]: “…I asked myself that question, what would Whitney want? What would Whitney want? So my intent is to raise my friend’s legacy, honor our friendship because that’s what she deserves. That’s how I feel…”

  • ON BEING YOUNG, FEARLESS AND FREE WITH WHITNEY [15:06-15:36]: “…We were young, fearless, and ready, and I was a believer. It was happening. Everything she said was happening. She didn’t talk like, ‘I’m going to have a hit record and we’re going to…’ It was none of that. It was like, ‘I’m a singer. I sing. I’m going to get a recording contract, and stick with me and I’ll take you all around the world.’ And that’s exactly what happened…” 
  • ON THE FIRST TIME THEY MET [17:20-17:50]: “…It all happened at that first meeting when I walked in and we met that day. It just clicked, something happened, and it was just a friendship that developed and it kept growing and growing. And it was deep because we were open, we were bare, we were naked. And when I mean naked, with our feelings and we didn’t think about what we were saying, we just said it…”

  • ON ROBYN’S BOND WITH WHITNEY [26:52 – 27:46]It was the bond, and the deepness, and the connection that we had. And it was beautiful. Those moments…I know I am very free when I express it in the book. And that’s because that’s what that moment felt like. Whitney used to always say, if you want a friend, you have to be one. If you love me, love me unconditionally. And that was something else for me to strive for, understanding what the word unconditional meant. And the love that I had for her was really deep. And that love she had for me was the same…”
  • ON HER FRIENDSHIP WITH WHITNEY AFTER SHE MARRIED BOBBY [35:42 – 38:04]: “…I did not know Bobby before the wedding. We never really got a chance to know each other. And, when they became a couple, I still really didn’t get to spend any quality time with both of them. But, while I will say about Bobby is she told me she loved him. And his behavior and the way I saw him treat her… let’s just say this about Bobby, Bobby’s behaviors played out in the press. And he and I were not squaring off in Everlast shorts and boxing gloves. That never happened. I was still in the same spot that Whitney always wanted me to be. Bobby never approached me personally and said anything to me about the rumors of our relationship. Not once. But I watched him make a mess of her trail. Bobby was funny. He had a way of shifting the attention to him anywhere, any place, at any time. That was Bobby’s talent….But I wasn’t competing for anything. I had her friendship. I was her friend. And he could have been a better friend too…”

Subscribe to ESSENCE’s Yes, Girl! podcast today, available for streaming and download on Apple PodcastsSpotifyiHeartMedia and Google. For more details visit ESSENCE.com.

Fashion-Forward Fall with Influencer and Fashionista Stacee Michelle

Style + Life + Fashion had the opportunity to interview Wardrobe Stylist, Stacee Michelle.  Cooler mornings and dropping daytime temperatures are a sure sign that brisk Fall weather is on its way, meaning it’s time to swap out lightweight summer clothes for the cozy textures of Fall.

For fashionistas, there’s no better way to start this fresh new season than with a Fall wardrobe refresh. And for those women who love to stay on-trend, knowing what’s hot as we swing into cooler weather is a must. Here’s a sneak peek into this Fall’s Fashion Forecast:

  • Go wild! Animal prints are this season’s neutral – you’re going to see them everywhere! From leopard print to smooth snakeskin, coordinate with new prints inspired by the jungle. A bold animal print can elevate a knee-high statement boot or the perfect belt bag. 
  • Go powerful! Take a break from relaxed athleisure and power up on all things tailored. From structured blazers to polished, tapered pants, these are classics that will be staples in your closet for years to come. Reimagine the classic button-down and add plaids or pinstripes to complete the look.
  • Go modern! Infuse every inch of your wardrobe with contemporary autumnal palettes led by colorful textures – think deep plums, golden yellows, burnt oranges and emerald greens in your favorite silhouettes.

Social media influencer and fashionista, Stacee Michelle, who’s got her finger firmly on the pulse of Fall fashion. She’ll help you shop for the latest trendy seasonal looks from your local department store, and explain how a few carefully selected pieces can refresh your entire wardrobe.

Interview courtesy: Belk

SHOP THE LIST: LIKEtoKNOW.it Releases the Top Shopped Items of 2019

On behalf of LIKEtoKNOW.it – the first app to provide 100% shoppable inspiration letting users shop real looks from influencers and tastemakers – has announced their curated, data-backed list of the top influencer-driven products of 2019.

Just in time for the holidays, LIKEtoKNOW.it’s Most Loved Products list reviewed billions of products shopped by over 14M users to determine the top shopped products from their favorite influencers from fashion, home, beauty, lifestyle, and family categories.

BLOOM: Faith, Fashion, and Business Empowerment Series Spotlight: Dr. JeFreda R. Brown

Style + Life + Fashion has launched a new empowerment series!  Titled, BLOOM focuses on faith, fashion, and business; spotlighting dynamic women that are movers and shakers in the community.

Today’s feature will spotlight Financial Literacy Educator, and Business Consultant, DrJeFreda R. Brown.

BLOOM SPOTLIGHT:  Dr.  JeFreda R. Brown

  • Explain why Financial Literacy is such an important topic for women of all ages.

     Financial literacy is competence in personal financial skills and financial education to make effective decisions concerning family, goals, lifestyle, and desires. In many families, women handle the finances. It is important that women be good stewards of what God has entrusted to them. This is why it is vital that young girls receive a strong financial foundation at a young age. The first teachers of finance affect the future financial decisions that young girls will make.

  • How can women empower themselves (or bloom) in the areas of personal finance, budgeting, and credit?

        Women first need to ask themselves if they need to change their financial behavior. If you have trouble making money last for an entire month, that is a clear indication that you need to change your financial behavior. Also, it is so important for women to realize that everything we do revolves around finances. Therefore, a strong financial foundation needs to be in place. Getting financial literacy education is the first step to blooming in all areas of personal finance.

  • What is the biggest misconception about repairing your credit?

         The biggest misconception about repairing your credit is that you have to pay someone to do it for you. You can repair your own credit. I recommend doing it yourself because it helps you to gain a better understanding of how the credit system works. I also want to stress that repairing credit doesn’t help if you haven’t first changed your mindset about finances. Repairing your credit but continuing the same cycles doesn’t solve the problem. I am a featured contributor in a book called, “I Didn’t Learn That in High School: 199 Facts About Credit Scores“, which is available on Amazon. This book is full of details about credit, how it works, how to use it, how not to use it, how to repair your own credit, and much more. I recommend that women get this book to help learn more about credit.

  • What are some of the specific financial obstacles that women are facing?

            There was a sample conducted with 7,000 men and women. They were given a 5-question basic financial literacy test. Only 29% of the women were able to pass the test. That means 71% of the women were unable to answer 5 questions about finances. Also, there are a lot of single women raising children. These women have to take care of their households. Most of them only have one source of income, which still may not cover all the necessary expenses each month. These are critical financial obstacles for women. These are also more reasons why getting financial literacy education is so vital for women.

  • What financial advice would you tell your 20-year-old self?

            If I knew at 21 what I know now about compounding interest, whole life insurance, investing in real estate, etc., I would have really focused on making sure my credit was good. I would have started putting all these things in place then.  I would have start building wealth then. 22 years later at 43, I would definitely be set financially. Thinking about how much interest would have compounded over 22 years! Jesus!

  •  How does faith have an impact as it relates to your personal finances?

          I believe that trying to manage finances without faith will never work. There are over 2,000 scriptures in the Bible about finances. This tells us that God wants us to have the proper guidance in managing finances. Another reason that faith is important is that we must realize that it is not “our” money; it’s God’s. He owns it, and we are just stewards of what He entrusts us with. If someone puts something they own into your care, wouldn’t you take good care of it? Most importantly, we are required to pay tithes. It’s a command, not a choice. I’m a witness to how God has provided for me in tough times because I have been obedient to paying tithes. Tithes are paid on gross income, not net income. Tithes are paid on any money you receive from others, even if it’s $1.

  •  Tell us more about your platform and Provision Financial Education? 

          It is my mission to educate people about finances and help people develop financial health and wellness. My goal is for Xaris Financial Enterprises to be the preferred financial literacy education company in the world. I want to get financial literacy curriculum into schools for grades K-12 and colleges. It needs to be a required curriculum. I want to go into companies and organizations to provide financial education to their employees. It saddens me when I read statistics about how people are developing health problems because they are stressed about their finances. People have to work past age 70 because they haven’t properly prepared for retirement. If people would get rid of their pride and seek help, they can solve their financial problems. It first requires a mindset change. Realize there is a problem first and then make an effort to resolve the problem. Action is required for change. That action is getting financial literacy education. God, Himself said, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge“. There is nothing to be ashamed of in getting help and letting someone know your situation. Many of us have had financial hardship; myself included. I’m not here to judge; I’m here to tear down the systems that have kept people in financial bondage. I have the compassion to help you because I have been through financial hardship.

  •  What’s the most important concept that we can take away from this interview?

           A problem is no longer a problem once you take care of it. Financial literacy is the key to having a better, stress-free life. Financial literacy is the key to having the lifestyle that you desire. Nothing happens until you first take action. Provision Financial Education is here and ready to help.

Follow Dr.  JeFreda R. Brown and join her Financial Literacy community on social media:  Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

“EMPOWERED WOMEN, empower women!”