Essence magazine named Constance C.R. White, a former style reporter for the New York Times, as its new editor-in-chief, the publication announced Thursday.

Essence has “been a guide for me throughout my life,” White said. “It's been a magazine that I've turned to again and again, and I'm excited to be able to serve the readers as the editor-in-chief."

In addition to the Times, White served as the founding fashion editor of Talk magazine, style director for online auction site eBay and executive fashion editor for Elle. She began her career at Ms. magazine, as assistant to co-founder Gloria Steinem. White is also the author of Stylenoir, a book on Black style, and has written extensively on culture, style, lifestyle and contemporary issues.

"Constance is passionate about the needs of Black women and making sure that they have the tools to make their boldest dreams come true,” Essence president Michelle Ebanks.

White succeeds Angela Burt-Murray, who moved to Atlanta in November with her family.  Former Essence editor Marcia Ann Gillespie will be a special project director at the magazine.

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