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ANNIE stars Jamie Foxx and Quvenzhane Wallis cover ESSENCE December issue

In ESSENCE’s December issue cover story, “Gifted & Grateful,” readers find out how Quvenzhané Wallis and Jamie Foxx win…

7 Winter Fashion Must-Haves

Heading into the snowy season can be scary when you don’t have the right fashion game plan. It’s tempting…

7 Winter Fashion Must-Haves

Heading into the snowy season can be scary when you don’t have the right fashion game plan. It’s tempting to throw on sweats and hibernate forever, but no trendsetter ever gave up that easily. Your winter wardrobe can instantly become season-ready with a few of the right staples. No need to purchase all new everything; these cold weather basics are everything you need for endless fashion wins this winter.

1. Scarf

Keep your body warm underneath a big scarf. Naturally, basic, neutral colors are sensible and match everything, but don’t be afraid to use an infinity scarf as a pop of color! There’s no harm in bringing fun to the freeze, and the bigger the scarf, the bigger the smile. That’s what I say, anyway.

MICHAEL Michael Kors ‘Mowani’ Leopard Print Infinity Scarf SALE $51.00, Kate Spade NY Autumn Floral-Print Silk Scarf $228.00

2. Ankle Boots

If you don’t already own the perfect pair of booties, it’s time. Arguably the most timeless shoe that has lasted seasons without being drastically remade, it’s safe to say you can purchase a trusty pair and keep them for years. The perfect ankle boot will be comfortable yet easily worn no matter the occasion.

Vince Camuto ‘Kachina’ Open Toe Bootie $158.95 (Nordstrom Exclusive), Vince Camuto ‘Amori’ Pointy Toe Leather Bootie SALE $89.48 (Nordstrom)

3. Liquid Leggings/Pants

“Cool girl” is in full force this season, meaning faux leather is all you need to look seriously fab. If you want to step it up even more, try a faux fur vest. You can keep your hair and makeup simple – the trick is not to try, and how can you say no to that?

MICHAEL Michael Kors Faux Leather Leggings SALE $79.60 (Nordstrom), Joe’s Jeans Millie Mid-Rise Crocodile-Print Jeans $245.00 (Neiman Marcus)

4. Chunky Knits

Function and fashion work well together when you know what you’re looking for. As the temps drop, oversized sweaters and knitted hats will be your best friend this season as you endlessly seek warmth. If you want to spruce up your cozy knits, pick a pretty statement necklace.

AQUA Chunky Solid Slouchy Hat & Fringe Scarf SALE $31.68 – $44.88 (Bloomingdales), Vintage Fisherman Sweater Poncho $198.00 (Free People)

5. Chambray

Staying strong on the fashion front is the chambray phenomenon. Don’t get rid of your denim just yet – you can use your chambray for layering or mixed with army green pants. Add a pair of fun military boots and a scarf or necklace and you effortlessly evolve from day to night in a matter of seconds.

The Perfect Chambray Shirt $72.00 (Madewell), Lauren Ralph Lauren Carter Roll-Sleeve Cristo Chambray Woven Shirt $69.50 (Bloomingdales)

6. Anything leopard print

Whether you prefer your leopard prints bold or subtle, there are endless ways to sport this speckled style. A leopard print scarf is a simple way to add dimension to any outfit, or throw on a pair of printed flats to keep your style fresh. No matter the garment, leopard print is the answer this season.

Avra Hair Calf Pump $425.00 (Michael Kors), Tory Burch ‘Robinson’ Genuine Calf Hair & Leather Tote $595.00 (Nordstrom)

7. Plaid Skirt

Skirts become even more fun in the winter months! Invest in a few pairs of tights, socks, and all the fixings for fashion that’ll keep the freeze at bay. Plaid skirts are no longer just for school girls, in fact you’ll teach a lesson or two when you’re spotted in the cutest cold weather outfit around. Add a pretty peacoat and you’re ready to go!

ELOQUII Tartan Plaid Midi Skirt $88.00 (Nordstrom), Nanette Lepore I Spy Sleuth Plaid Leather-Waist Skirt SALE $166.00 (Neiman Marcus)

You can find these and many more must-haves for wall at the shops at Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza. And always remember to Live Life in Style!

~ Nikka Shae – www.ohnikka.com

Guys’ Guide to Gift Giving: Black Friday Edition

Pssst… guys! It’s that time of year again. That time when your lady is expecting a holiday gift she can brag to all her friends about. You want to get that gush-worthy gift for her, but when you ask her what she wants, she’ll probably shrug and say she will love whatever you buy her. And although this sounds like a dream come true… it’s a trap! Truth is, it’s likely she’s trying to telepathically communicate her wish list. And if you’re like any other man, reading your woman’s mind is definitely one of your weaknesses.

Think of the things she already has, but always wishes she had more of or an updated version. It’s a bit like video games are for many men (though it’s best not to admit it!). Take mental notes about certain colors and types of jewelry she wears – this will make it easy to choose the perfect gift that she will wear without end! And if you really wanna score a few points, try thinking outside the box this season with a gift that she will really enjoy!

Here’s an idea. Give her what she really wants for the holidays… something she deserves. Why not reward your lady with a gift that shows her just how sweet and thoughtful you are. I’m thinking that a little bit of pampering should do the trick! So on Black Friday, after the turkey has been gobbled up, and the shopping madness is back to normal, surprise your lady with her very own personal pamper party! A day of relaxation to recover from turkey week. Sprinkle in a few extra treats and you’ve got the recipe for a bliss-filled night!

We’ve taken out all of the guess work for you with a few gushing-goodies that’ll make you King of the Checkout Counter. You’ll go down in gift-giving history and, most importantly, you’ll be a hit at the office when she gushes over just how thoughtful and amazing her guy is! Who’s the man now, Santa?!

You’re A Star – Lush Cosmetics – Macy’s $79.95

Lavish from the inside out, this gift is just what she needs to make her feel like a star.

Sequin Charm Bracelets – Bloomingdale’s $38.00

Send positive vibes her way with one of these stackable 14k gold-plated charms that bear meaningful words like “strength,” “balance,” or “goodness” as a subtle yet strengthening daily reminder.

Heat Lounge (Lenox Square)

After all of that Black Friday shopping, she’s gonna need a place to relax and let her hair down… literally! Opt for The Ultimate Makeover ($60)…you’ll thank me for it!

Macaron Queen (Lenox Square)

One word… macarons! If there’s anything a girl loves more than life, it’s gotta be something sweet. These tiny treats are straight from heaven and will definitely score you a few points (and kisses too).

~ Nikka Shae – www.ohnikka.com

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Georgia’s top breweries celebrate at Georgia Craft Beer Festival

Beer aficionados and good-time-goers made their way to Atlanta’s Candler Park for the Georgia Craft Beer Festival. Celebrating it’s…