Style+Life+Fashion is the brainchild of Kimberly West, a consultant, and on-air lifestyle expert. Although Kim started blogging as a hobby due to her love for Fashion, she quickly gained a loyal following as a respected industry expert and contributor for numerous fashion websites. She seeks to provide the latest trends as well as educate consumers about all aspects of fashion. Kim has hosted television segments as a fashion and lifestyle expert with ABC 33/40, WBRC Fox6, ABC2 News, Fox 45 WBFF, The List Baltimore, and WBAL News. Her fashion interviews include well-known industry experts such as Tai Beauchamp, Tomima Edmark, Julie Weiss, Clinton Kelly, Gianni Rich, Darius Gibbs, Dean Banowetz, and Lilliana Vazquez. In addition, she’s interviewed reality star Queensly Felix and R&B Artist, Keyshia Cole. She has also collaborated with online features for Glamour Magazine, Harper’s Bazaar, and Macy’s, and worked to stream digital content and video for New York Fashion Week 2010.
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.
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.
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.
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)
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 andthe highly anticipated reunion of R&B supergroup, TGT (Tyrese, Ginuwine & Tank).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
I hope you’re all caught up with Bridgerton Season 3 by now! The show’s stunning fashion has inspired you to add some whimsical touches to your own wardrobe this summer, I have two perfect recommendations for you.
First, let’s talk about dresses.Ivy City Co. offers a wide range of beautiful, whimsical dresses in various sizes (XXS-5X), a perfect size inclusive brand for everyone this summer. You can emulate the show’s vibe by choosing dresses with statement puffed sleeves and loose fits. These comfy, casual dresses are perfect as house dresses, but they’re also stylish enough to wear out and about. Jewelry is also a major focus of the series’ aesthetic, and Sif Jakobs is the brand to help you curate your own collection. With a large variety of necklaces, earrings, and rings, you can add the perfect touch of elegance and drama to any outfit. Just as each character’s jewelry in Bridgerton tells a story, your new pieces can bring a bit of that magic to your own style.
So, if you’re ready to bring a bit of Bridgerton into your summer wardrobe, Ivy City Co. and Sif Jakobs have you covered!
In today’s television segment, popular Birmingham fashion influencer Kimberly West joined CBS42 to share her reaction to the possible nationwide TikTok app ban. The segment was lively and packed with valuable insights, from the perspective of a content creator.
Keke Palmer stunned on the METGala carpet showing off her dazzling smile thanks to cosmetic dentist Dr. Victoria Veytsman. The actress visited Dr. Victoria Veytsman for a whitening treatment to get red carpet ready ahead of fashion’s biggest night.
Known for her Smile Makeovers and for creating beautifully restored smiles, Dr. Victoria Veytsman uses innovative and personalized treatments for each client. Dr. Victoria Veytsman also counts Barry Keoghan, Angela Bassett, Hailey Bieber, and John David Washington as clients.
Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated dress, sleek shorts or a statement blazer today, SHEIN has you covered with its tweed-inspired fashion pieces.
o Embrace elegance with this stunning contrast trim dress featuring a classic tweed pattern. With its flattering silhouette and chic pocket details, this dress is perfect for both formal occasions and casual outings.
o Step up your shorts game with these trendy tweed shorts featuring a plaid print design. The slant pockets add a modern touch, making them a versatile addition to your wardrobe.
o Make a powerful statement at the office or any professional setting with this sophisticated tweed vest blazer. The notch collar and frayed edge details add a touch of flair to your workwear ensemble.
o Channel your inner boss babe with this chic tweed crop blazer and pleated skirt set. The plaid print and lapel neck design exude confidence and style, perfect for meetings or brunch dates.
o Stay on-trend with this fashionable tweed shirt and shorts set featuring a playful plaid print. The drop shoulder shirt adds a relaxed vibe, while the shorts offer comfort and style.
o Make a statement in this charming light purple tweed dress with a ruffled hem. The delicate details and flattering silhouette make it an ideal choice for any special occasion.
o Elevate your tweed game with this stylish two-piece set featuring a plaid band collar top and pleated skirt. Effortlessly chic, this ensemble is perfect for a day out or evening cocktails.
o Flaunt your curves in this flattering plus-size tweed dress with a button front design. The plaid print adds a classic touch, while the bodycon silhouette ensures a stylish look.
o Turn heads in this sophisticated tweed bodycon dress featuring a timeless plaid pattern. The button front detailing adds a touch of elegance, making it a must-have for any fashion-forward individual.
o Make a bold statement with this chic tweed romper featuring button detail accents. Whether you’re hitting the town or attending a summer soiree, this romper is sure to impress.
o Stand out from the crowd in this stylish colorblock tweed cami dress. The faux two-piece design adds a playful twist, making it a fun and fashionable choice for any occasion.
