ajc.com 2008 Holiday Guide

Queen Latifah has fashion advice for holiday revelers — always wear a smile.

The Oscar-nominated actress plays the merry narrator in "The Perfect Holiday," which opened in metro Atlanta movie theaters on Wednesday. She and the romantic comedy's lead actors — Gabrielle Union and Morris Chestnut — visited Atlanta recently and demonstrated how to look your best for seasonal gatherings.

Joey Ivansco/Staff (ENLARGE)

Queen Latifah dons fun gold earrings, a black button-up Curvation shirt and a winning smile.

Joey Ivansco/Staff (ENLARGE)

Gabrielle Union wraps herself in a white Louisa Beccaria coat over a stunning metallic blue Miguelina dress. The silver, open-toe shoes are by Sergio Rossi.

Joey Ivansco/Staff (ENLARGE)

For Morris Chestnut, dressing to impress includes a thigh-length chocolate brown Armani jacket in suede, a sleeveless Burberry pullover, a blazing white Joseph Abboud shirt, H. Stockton cufflinks and William Rast jeans.

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TIPS FROM QUEEN LATIFAH

• Enjoy a relaxing bath.

• Wear red for the season, and for wine stains.

• Transfer essentials (makeup, keys, cash, credit card) from your everyday purse to a smaller evening bag.

• Take a final look in the mirror and make sure all tags are cut off, etc.

TIPS FROM GABRIELLE UNION

• Check the weather before you leave home and bring a wrap.

• Mapquest directions so you know exactly how to get there.

• Use a facial mask.

• Eat something beforehand in case you don't like the food.

TIPS FROM MORRIS CHESTNUT

• Listen to your favorite holiday music while getting dressed to get into the spirit.

• Get a gift for your host, like a bottle of wine.

• Plan an escape strategy in case the party isn't fun.