Essence Atkins is an actress that we’ve always closely followed throughout her career. Her delivery on Smart Guy as the cool, big sister Yvette had us enamored. While in Half & Half, her character Dee Dee Thorne wore looks that were posh and put together. Ceci, the lauded Black costume deisgn who is well known for her creations in Living Single and In Living Color also worked on Half & Half. On the red carpet, that early aughts style of low-rise jeans and a stylish top still fits in with the current era.
You could say that her looks are equivalent to an early career Tracee Ellis Ross with sophisticated silhouettes, going-out tops, and simple accessories to add a level of elevation to an outfit. Atkins experimented with her looks without compromising her personal style of laid-back yet chic looks.
This blast from the past is one of Atkins’s most relatable and easy looks to recreate. She was at a Baby Phat and America’s Next Top Model event, a brand that is still beloved by many today. Her peach-colored top and easy jeans paired with a striped strap heel are a look made for the summer season. She added a classic baguette bag in white with studded details and a pair of hoop earrings with a small diamond detail to complete her look.
Keep scrolling to see how you can recreate this early aughts outfit.
This peach top from Renee C. has a similar shape and texture to Atkins’s. It’s a modern take on her top and perfect for the summer.
Available at Saks Off Fifth
This one-shoulder blouse from Renee C. at Nordstrom offers a fresh, “going-out top” element to a recreation outfit.
Available at Nordstrom Rack
This option from Ninety Union is a fun twist to the shoes Atkins is wearing. The stripes element is still there with a compelling cutout heel.
Available at Saks Off Fifth