Category: Fashion

Fashion

Accessories /

Glow Up Your Eyes with New ‘Kista’ Digital Lifestyle Glasses – Gunnar Optiks

Gunnar Optik’s just unveiled three hot new digital lifestyle glasses that will glow up your daily work routine!

Designed for women who prioritize style and eye health, the new Anna, Kaia, and Lahti, all part of the elegant new Kista Collection, go well with any outfit while offering the eye-protecting, blue-light-blocking, and computer vision syndrome-fighting benefits Gunnar Optiks is known for.

Anna (MSRP: $99)

  • Its contemporary cat eye is elegant and made of a premium hand-polished polymer frame available in three unique colorways.

Kaia (MSRP: $99)

  • It has a unique square-shaped design and a stylish keyhole bridge. A glossy, premium polymer acetate frame material is used, and adjustable nose pads provide premium comfort.

Lahti (MSRP: $99)

  • It has a round style with a flattened upper frame and is accented with metal details in the temples.
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How to Break Into the Fashion Industry as a Man: A Realistic Guide 

So, you want to step into the world of fashion? Exciting choice! The fashion industry can feel like a whirlwind of style, creativity, and, let’s be honest—pressure. But guess what? You don’t need to be intimidated. With a bit of grit, passion, and a solid plan, you can carve out your place in this ever-evolving scene. Here are some tips to help you get started.

Featured Photo via Pixabay

Learn, Learn, and Then Learn Some More
If you had thought that just winging it would help, think again. Fashion is an evolved industry with its history, rules, and players. Spend some time learning about fabrics and design techniques, and keep yourself updated with the latest goings-about in the industry. Even the big names of today, like Tom Ford, didn’t skip this part. Take courses, if possible, or intern with some brand you are looking up.

Connect with the Right People
Fashion lives by connections. Going to conferences, trade fairs, or even small networking meetups may just give you the biggest and best opportunity. But the catch-don’t just network for the sake of it. Be real; people can spot fake from a mile away, but that is not the vibe you want to sell. Building relationships with photographers, editors, or stylists opens up those doors that you didn’t even know existed. If one starts small, he or she needs to think big.

Embrace the Chaos and Have Fun with It
The thing is, fashion’s just so unpredictable, and honestly, that’s what makes it exciting. It’s one big rule-breaker: try this, try that, see what works. Don’t be afraid to take risks with your designs, your personal style, or your career. Go big or go home. Fashion always compensates those who don’t get scared by pushing the limits. Just remember, while it’s an industry, it’s also an art. So enjoy the process and have fun in letting your creativity flow. You never know what is going to pop up out of nowhere, and that’s the beauty of it all.

Be Ahead with Innovation
These days, being into fashion isn’t just about fabrics and trends; it’s about tech, too. Be it digital clothing or 3D printing, knowing all the latest innovations can be a real game-changer. Self-care is also big in the scene on a more personal level. Everything from laser skin rejuvenation has become popular in keeping up a fresh, youthful appearance in an industry where looks really do matter. Fashion is visual, after all, so staying sharp is just another part of the package.

Anticipate Success and Expect Setbacks
Here is the thing: fashion is fast-moving, competitive, and sometimes downright brutal. You will most probably suffer some setbacks along the way; everybody does. But resilience is key. When something doesn’t work, pivot, adapt, and keep moving on. Guys who make it in fashion are those guys who can change without losing that spark of creativity. Remember, everyone’s journey is different. Keep your passion alive, and the right opportunity will come.

Entering the fashion industry might seem daunting, but with a bit of focus and determination, you can absolutely make your mark. The path won’t always be smooth, but the ride will be worth it.

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 /

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.

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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.
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!

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Bring Bridgerton-Inspired Style to Your Summer Wardrobe with Ivy City Co. and Sif Jakobs

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!

Beauty /

Keke Palmer’s MET Gala Smile From Dr. Victoria Veytsman

Keke Palmer stunned on the MET Gala 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.