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The Leading Women Meet - Before BET Networks’ Leading Women Defined summit kicked off in Washington, D.C., on Monday, an illustrious group of industry leaders gathered the night before to toast beauty and style authority Mikki Taylor, who recently  published the book Commander-in-Chic: Every Woman’s Guide to Managing Her Style Like a First Lady. Click on for photos from Sunday’s fete.—Britt Middleton (Photo: Phelan Marc/BET)

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A Special Message - Debra Lee, BET Networks' chairman and chief executive, speaks at the "Commander-in-Chic" reception. (Photo: Phelan Marc/BET)

Photo By Phelan Marc/BET

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Sweet Songstress - Grammy Award-nominated vocalist Carolyn Malachi opens up the evening. (Photo: Phelan Marc/BET) 

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Warming Up the Crowd - Carolyn Malachi performs during the Commander-in-Chic reception, where guests honored legendary fashion editor Mikki Taylor. (Photo: Phelan Marc/BET)

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Deep in Discussion - Style maven Angela Simmons, co-founder of Pastry Shoes and niece of business mogul Russell Simmons. (Photo: Phelan Marc/BET)

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Smooth Talker - Angela Simmons, who founded Pasty Shoes in 2007 with sister Vanessa, mingles with partygoers.  (Photo: Phelan Marc/BET)

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Bold Beauties - Debra Lee chats with Southland star Regina King. (Photo: Phelan Marc/BET)

Photo By Photo: Phelan Marc/BET/ Phelan Marc/BET

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Working the Room\r  - Essence magazine editor-at-large Mikki Taylor led a discussion about creating a signature style, and shared tips from her recently released book Commander-in-Chic: Every Woman’s Guide to Managing Her Style Like a First Lady.\r\r\r(Photo: Phelan Marc/BET)

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Star Power - Mikki Taylor engages the ladies with her renowned style tips. (Photo: Phelan Marc/BET)

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In Good Company - Alicia Rodgers Alston (center, in grey), chats with guest of honor Mikki Taylor. (Photo: Phelan Marc/BET)

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Taking the Stage - Jeanine D. Liburd, executive vice president, corporate communications and public affairs for BET Networks, addresses guests at the soiree.  (Photo: Phelan Marc/BET)

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Gift of Gab - Debra Lee stays engaged in conversation with guests. (Photo: Phelan Marc/BET)