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.

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.

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).

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!

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!

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.

National Tweed Day with SHEIN: It Girl Pieces

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. 

·      SHEIN Privé Contrast Trim Pocket Patched Dress ($13.91)

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.

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·      SHEIN Slayr Plaid Print Slant Pocket Tweed Shorts ($13.17)

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.

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·      SHEIN BIZwear Notch Collar Frayed Edge Tweed Vest Blazer Workwear ($21.27)

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.

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·      SHEIN Essnce Plaid Print Lapel Neck Crop Blazer & Pleated Skirt ($33.35)

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.

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·      SHEIN Privé Plus Plaid Print Drop Shoulder Shirt & Shorts ($22.07)

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.

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·      SHEIN ENCHNT Light Purple Ruffled Hem Tweed Dress ($41.19)

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.

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·      SHEIN MOD Ladies’ Plaid Band Collar Short Sleeve Top And Pleated Skirt Two Piece Set ($23.67)

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.

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·      SHEIN MOD Plus Plaid Print Button Front Tweed Dress ($18.70)

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.

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·      SHEIN Lady Plaid Pattern Button Front Tweed Bodycon Dress ($18.07)

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.

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·      SHEIN Haute Tweed Button Detail Romper ($22.49)

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.

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·      SHEIN MOD Colorblock Splice Faux Two Piece Cami Dress ($22.29)

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.

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Popular Facial Accessories and Why People Love Wearing Them

Facial accessories have been a part of human adornment and culture for centuries now. They’re often used for cultural expression and personal style statements. For instance, people might wear nose rings to add an edgy feel to an outfit, or they might wear fancy eyeglasses that complement their overall face shape.

So let’s dive into the world of facial accessories and talk about some of the most popular types, and also explain why people just love wearing them.

Source: Unsplash (CC0)

Earrings

Earrings are perhaps one of the most common facial accessories that people wear across the world. They can be small and discrete, large and dangly, or anything in between. You can get them in lots of different shapes and colors, and you could even adorn them with precious gemstones if you want to.

People love wearing earrings because they’re generally pretty small and out of the way. They aren’t really noticeable by the wearer and they can easily be taken out if you don’t want to wear them for a while. Earrings can also hold a lot of cultural significance, which makes them especially great for people who want to represent certain traditions. But for everyone else, they just look great!

Nose Rings and Studs

Nose rings have been growing in popularity again because they’re a great way to express a more edgy or unique look. They have great aesthetic appeal and often cultural significance as well. There’s a wide selection of gold nose rings, metal nose rings, and even culturally significant ones that you can wear.

So if you’re after a more rebellious or fun look, then nose rings and studs could complement your desired outfit!

Lip Rings and Studs

Similar to nose rings and studs, these facial piercings are a great way to express yourself creatively and are often more common with younger crowds or people aiming for a more rebellious and edgy look. They’re a great way to show off your personal style or subcultural affiliations, and they can come in lots of different styles and colors too.

It’s important to be mindful of the care involved with a lip piercing. As with any piercing, taking proper care is important to ensure that it doesn’t get infected but with lip piercings in particular, it can feel a little uncomfortable at first due to its location.

Eyeglasses

Eyeglasses are considered key accessories to wear because they’re so common and actually serve a functional purpose too. However, they’ve grown more popular as a fashion accessory over the past few years thanks to the countless unique frame styles and designs that we have access to with many different price points.

One of the more difficult things about eyeglasses is that they can really change the shape of your face and how your outfits feel. You should look for eyeglasses that ultimately complement your face shape, but you can also go out of your way to find something a bit more unique and interesting to showcase your personality. There’s a lot to try with eyeglasses, so don’t hesitate to experiment a little!

SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25TH ANNIVERSARY: Red Carpet Recap

NFL STARS SHINE BRIGHT: SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION HOSTED BY CEDRIC THE ENTERTAINER AND TICHINA ARNOLD HONORS C.J. STROUD, DAMAR HAMLIN, MARKQUESE BELL, NATE BURLESON, AND ESSENCE GLASS CEILING BREAKER AWARDEES DASHA SMITH, KIMBERLY FIELDS, AND SANDRA DOUGLASS MORGAN.

Super Bowl Soulful Celebration, formerly Super Bowl Gospel Celebration (SBGC), is founded and executive produced by Atlanta-based marketing consultant Melanie Few. Conceived in 1999 as a gospel brunch in Miami, Super Bowl Soulful Celebration continues as the only multicultural program and inspirational event sanctioned by the NFL during Super Bowl weekend. The evening brings together an ensemble of NFL players, gospel/contemporary Christian performers, comedy, and award-winning musicians spanning all genres on one stage for a spectacular show filled with song, hope, laughter, and uplifting messages of inspiration.