Time to Pretend II Art Show Recap
This past weekend on Saturday, September 9th I had the pleasure of attending the second annual “Time to Pretend” art showcase which was an all female art show that exhibited a variety of artists from fashion to performances of all kinds.
This past weekend on Saturday, September 9th I had the pleasure of attending the second annual “Time to Pretend” art showcase which was an all female art show that exhibited a variety of artists from fashion to performances of all kinds.
The art show was located in South Philadelphia’s Philly Pack and was a spectacle of dancing, drinking and talented artists showcased on each wall of the room. There were many artists that were highlighted that night but some of my favorites were PhobyMo, who was the host of the event, Heidi Cannon, Allegra Gia, Freshie Juice, Madison Nuemann and Idaslis Yvette. It was such an inspiration to see so many artists, especially female artists unite under one roof to showcase their art and to be celebrated. I was able to speak with some of the artists about their work and was really intrigued to hear all of the amazing things that inspired them and even hear their art process.
That night really put into perspective the lack of credit female artists in any genre gets in the creative industries. So, when I see events championing the minority in any field I am always excited to see people unite and let them know they are an inspiration to many. Hopefully, with art shows such as Time to Pretend, we can continue to lift up woman in the creative fields and give them the applause they greatly deserve. Be sure to take a look at all of the wonderful talent that was showcased that night by these pictures below:
5 Stylist You Need Follow on Instagram
Deep down we all just want to know what’s in everyone else’s closet. In today’s world the inside of your favorite celebrity's closet is one follow away.
Deep down we all just want to know what’s in everyone else’s closet. In today’s world the inside of your favorite celebrity's closet is one follow away. Instagram is the best place to get street style inspiration, catch a glimpse of new fashion lines, and have access to all things fashion. We have gathered 5 stylists you should follow.
Maeve Reilly
Followers - 70K
Instagram - @stylememaeve
Has Styled For - Hailey Baldwin, Lala Anthony, Janelle Mona
Daniel Buezo/ Debbie Gonzales
Followers - 8,327/6,366
Instagram - @danielbuezo, @iamdebbiegonzales
Has Styled For - Kehlani
Zoe Costello
Followers - 13.8K
Instagram - @zoecostello
Has Styled For - Sofia Richie, Priyanka Chopra, Gigi Hadid, Dudley O'Shaughness
Law Roach
Followers - 185K
Instagram - @luxurylaw
Has Styled For - Celine Dion, Zendaya , Ariana Grande, Skai Jackso
Access by NKC Holiday Gift Guide
This holiday season is coming up quick and choosing the perfect gifts for your friends and family can be tough… and expensive. Lucky for you guys, we put together a list of some great finds all for $50 and under!
This holiday season is coming up quick and choosing the perfect gifts for your friends and family can be tough… and expensive. Lucky for you guys, we put together a list of some great finds all for $50 and under! Check out these fun, fashionable gifts that will work for any loved one.
01
Tucker + Tate Print Sleep Romper (Big Girls) $39
The perfect holiday season outfit to snuggle up by the fireplace with hot chocolate in, and you still have a left over $11 to grab a pair of cozy socks to go with!
02
Mistletoe LUSH Bath Bomb $7.95/ea.
No one can turn down a mistletoe, jasmine-scented, vegan bath on a cold winter day; visit LUSH online to grab a Mistletoe Bath Bomb for you and your special friend or grab a couple more of their special Christmas themed Bath Bombs! Prices vary.
03
Mixed Plaid Scarf $39
In these cold winter months, everyone can use a scarf to keep them warm, especially a big fluffy one full of holiday colors. Check out this scarf among many other options and colors at Urban Outfitters.
04
Lovello Elizabeth Ladies Jacket $85
Keep it cute & sporty. This black, embroidered fitted jacket is perfect for the get-around athletic outfit or pair with denim for a causal vibe. Shop the jacket at lovelloelizabeth.com
05
Calvin Klein Modern Cotton Bralette Gift Set $44
It’s never a bad time to rock your Calvins, and now it’s time to rock them with some holiday cheer. Urban Outfitters has a perfect red Calvin Klein bralette, that even comes with a matching creamy red lipstick to go with.
06
The Burgundy Palette|KYSHADOW $42
Anyone that keeps up with the Kardashians knows that Kylie Jenner’s newest addition to her line, KYSHADOW, has been a huge hit. The Burgundy Palette holds the perfect colors and tones that you’ll want to show off your holiday cheer!
07
BOSS Hugo Boss Spaced Dots Skinny Tie $39.50
Make sure that your whole group looks as great as you, get your guy this perfectly cheerful tie, he won’t be able to resist the festiveness and you won’t be able to resist the price, originally priced at $95, its 58% off and right in your price range.
08
‘New Beginnings’ Lotus Pendant Necklace $48
This is a perfect gift just in time for the New Year, wish your person happy new beginnings this year this a meaningful and super cute lotus necklace.
09
Commuter Series Wallet Case $44.90
Holiday time means a lot of fun; but it also means a lot of rushing. Don’t let your loved one leave anything behind, with this convenient and sleek looking phone case they can have everything in one safe place! This phone case doubles as a wallet for all your important things while you’re on the move.
10
Cara Accessories Faux Fur Collar $48
Fur accents are super in right now… and it’s about to get super cold! Have your loved one fashion ready and warm this season that comes in every color from a flirty pink to a holiday dark burgundy.
11
TDM Clothing Cher Dress $65
Says disco and modern with the bell sleeves and a sleek shift dress, style it with a pair of funky sandals and you would look great for that fall/winter wedding.
12
Kiehl’s Since 1851 Men’s Travel-Ready Starter Kit $43
Holiday season means holiday party season with lots of friends and family. If you and your guy are on the constant travel have him prepared with the perfect travel-ready kit with all his favorite necessities and more!
Credits: Taylor M., Access by NKC
Celebrity Stylist: Dress To Kill
They say "dressing well is a form of good manners", these ladies have perfect etiquette.
Chiara Capitani
She’s described by The Coveteur of the queen of the “new wave of fashion girls who effortlessly mix skate labels into their wardrobe.” Her closet goes from streetwear brands such as Thrasher, Supreme, and Anti Social Social Club to Loewe and Louis Vuitton. But thats not all, she can on anyway be seen wearing either some of the rarest sneakers, or show stopper heels. She does not call herself a “stylist,” she is an image consultant that has works with brands all across the board and credits her biggest success as working with Vogue Man but her dream would be to work for Prada Sport. Read More
Anna Katsanis
Anna Katsanis is a Greek born and United States raised, New York based stylist who's work can be found throughout different editorials and fashion advertising. Her love for fashion came from film and fashion designs, some of which you can see reminiscent in her work. She has worked with Harpers Bazaar, Interview Magazine, Neimans and Refinery 29 alike and is the face behind the incredible style of Laverne Cox.
Newheart Ohanian
Newheart Ohanian began her career in styling after working for several years in the fashion industry, deciding to shift her focus and try out freelance fashion styling. She attributes much of her knowledge and experience to studying apparel and textile design in Florence and Milan. Her love of storytelling through visual imagery makes her invaluable to her clients and made her the perfect women to handle the job of styling for Beyonce’s critically acclaimed Lemonade project.
Ade Samuel
Ade started her work in the fashion industry as an intern at Teen Vogue, which because of her hard work eventually allowed her a job as a fashion assistant. With these jobs, she was allowed a platform to meet some of the most influential stylists in the industry and she would volunteer to do little jobs like work on photoshoots. She now works for the likes of Nicole Richie, Christina Aguilera and Miley Cyrus and Big Sean. But her work does not stop there, shes also introduced her own shoe line, Ade Samuel Shoes, a dream shes had for a long time. At 27, shes new in the game, but working harder than many.
Charlie Brianna
Charlie Brianna’s bio describes her as having “timeless style driven by an unparalleled imagination.” At the young age of 22, she has already worked on many editorials, red carpets, video shoots and personal shopping. Her work includes work with celebrities such as P. Diddy, Chris Hemsworth, Nicki Minaj and Brandy Norwood.
Mel Ottenberg
Mel Ottenberg is described in Vanity Fair as being a “styling veteran,” because of working with stars such as Brittany Spears and Pamela Anderson. But his most recognized work is done with pop superstar Rihanna. He does all of her red-carpet ensembles and tour costumes. He says he fell into styling by accident and then after doing great his first time, started writing letters to photographers such as David LaChapelle requesting to work with him.
Nini Nguyen
Nini Nguyen is a fashion stylist with a love of fashionable and chic individuality. This is exuded throughout all her works in which she shows how clothes SHOULD lay and be used to enhance a women s body. She started off at Banana Republic and Neiman Marcus and eventually advanced to Oscar de La Renta and Barneys New York. Her styling Philosophy is that “anyone can look like a million without spending a million and believes in buying less but investing in quality pieces that will last forever.”
Credits: Imani C., Access Public Relations Intern
In The Industry: Sacai
Sacai is known for using contrasting textures and patterns in their collections also including unexpected shapes and silhouettes.
Sacai
(Sah-key)
Brand name:Sacai
Creative Director and Designer: Chitose Abe
Start year: 1999
Sacai SS17 RTW
Personal 411 on Sacai:
Chitose started her clothing line Sacai after 8 years of working with the Junya Watanabe collection at Comme des Garçons and opened their first flagship store in September 2011 in Minamiaoyama, Tokyo. Even though her garments are geared towards female, Chistose's main interest is creating collection of clothes that are "unique and timeless, innovative and experimental". Sacai is known for using a lot of contrasting textures and patterns in their collections also including unexpected shapes and silhouettes. Chitose is constantly influenced by her surrounding and the day-to-day life which gives her a lot of inspiration with her line Sacai; giving it a type of elegance that is based on classical items. Chitose's idea for her line is to make it easy to transfer each garment between different occasions in a female's day-to-day life and not only for special opportunities.
Sacai SS17 RTW
Personal review on Sacai SS17 collection:
Chitose’s influences for this collection were the likes of the iconic entertainers Jimi Hendrix, Kurt Cobain and Pablo Picasso just to name a few, wanting “to take things from their style and put it all together, as one”. And I feel like she did just that; filling this season’s collection with beautiful bold patterns and colorful sheer materials leaving each garment to stand on its own just like the talent of each artist she draw inspiration from. The collection as a whole is a piece of art that can be worn as show stoppers pieces to any event or daily basis.
Sacai SS17 RTW
Credits: Jenna G., Access Styling Intern
KINGMINZLY SHORT FILM EXTRAVAGANZA
The LATEST: Short Film Series by KingMinzly & Anahata Milytia
The LATEST: Short Film Series by KingMinzly & Anahata Milytia
WARNING SOME SCENES IN THESE FILMS MAY BE NOT PLEASING TO ALL AUDIENCES. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED
The Raptor: Inspired by the 1977 horror film Children of the Corn
anahataxmilytia.com
Avant-Garde': Pilot to the Avant Garde' short film series
Y Why: Fashion Film showcasing Vintage Gucci, Maison Margiela
SAF: Natural Born Killers www.anahataxmilytia.com
[C R E D I T S]
Creative Directors / Stylist:
KingMinzly - @kingminzly
Billyracxx - @billyracxx
Engineer / Producer:
Phoolish - @earthshamanajna
Shot / Edited / Director
Dakota - @dak.ta
Jay Mos - @j.mos
Featured Actors
Leslie
Allison
Raeographer
Ciarra Nicole
Greg$
Uncommon Ricky
Style Watch: Zendaya
Being inspired by her older sister and nieces, she created Daya by Zendaya in the Spring of 2016.
Zendaya
We all remember that little girl, Zendaya from Disney Channels' hit shows, but she's not so little anymore! This twenty-year-old women is doing big things for women [and men] on a small budget. Being inspired by her older sister and nieces, she created Daya by Zendaya in the Spring of 2016. "The kind of women we're targeting are real women who want a good shoe they can wear to their job interviews, but still be stylish and not break the bank," says the red carpet killer.
Partnering up with her stylist, Law Roach the duo not only have an affordable shoe line but they are bringing us a classy look clothing line. Zendaya debuting some of her pieces as she guest starred as a judge on Project Runway; posting a picture on IG of her in a velvet suit with a lace body suit with the caption "I gotta admit.....wearing my own stuff feels really good. We've done well @luxurylaw. #DayabyZendaya #clothinglinecomingsoon".
I don't know about you, but I'm looking forward to her pieces she has dropping soon and more exciting shoes to come. Go Daya!!
CREDITS:
Tanisha Brooks
Head Stylist at Access by NKC
HOW TO SEE PARIS IN 48 HOURS OR LESS
"With just two days in Paris, I was determined to knock out all the best sites. Here’s how to conquer Paris in 48 hours." - Aliza M.
During my study abroad experience, we were constantly moving around and would only stay in each city in a few days. With just two days in Paris, I was determined to knock out all the best sites. Here’s how to conquer Paris in 48 hours.
Day One: Notre Dame, Versailles, and the Eiffel Tower
In the morning we headed to Notre Dame. This building is absolutely stunning, and the best part? Free entry. The line may look daunting but it moves quickly and is totally worth the wait. Plus, a great way to make time go quicker while you’re in line is to grab a crepe to eat while you wait. For you “Hunchback of Notre Dame” fans, you can finally fulfill your childhood dream of seeing where Quasimodo lives! After basking in the glory of Notre Dame, we hit up one of the many cafés around the church and grabbed a quick lunch (I suggest a croque-monsieur).
After lunch, we headed to the RER, the above-ground train, to head to Versailles. The train costs about seven euros for the round trip and the ride is about 20 minutes. There are very detailed maps in the station so you know which train to get on and Versailles is the last stop. If you want to tour the palace at Versailles, plan on spending another 15 euros. But, the garden at Versailles is free entry. I paid to tour the palace and it was absolutely breathtaking, but if you are trying to save money, there is plenty to do in just the gardens. We spent the rest of our afternoon touring around Versailles until it closes around 6:00 PM.
We then headed back into the heart of Paris for our last stop of the day, the iconic Eiffel Tower. In front of the Eiffel tower is a large field where you can sit, eat, drink and watch the tower light up at night. We stopped at a grocery store, grabbed some food and set up camp to watch the show. Starting at ten o’clock, the tower sparkles for five minutes and it looks gorgeous. It repeats this every hour until midnight.
Day Two: The Louvre and The Arc de Triomphe
The next morning we headed to The Louvre, the world’s largest museum. The cost of the visit was included in our program costs, but tickets are typically around 15 euros. This museum is huge and you can spend hours upon hours there. The most famous painting in this museum though is easily The Mona Lisa. You have to wait a few minutes to get to the front but it’s totally worth it.
The last big Paris icon is the Arc de Triumph. Due to time restrictions we could not make it to see this landmark, but if you have time left after The Louvre, it is just a short metro ride away. It is located in the center of the Place Charles de Gaulle and is at the end of the Champs-Elyees. The Arc honors those who have fought and died in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Under the arc is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War I.
There is obviously so much else to see in Paris, but when you only have 48 hours you have to make the best of it! If you have more time, you can check out the many other museums, cafés and shopping areas, but if you only have a short period of time, I suggest these five places. This guide should hopefully be helpful if you are studying abroad in another city and just want to head over to Paris for the weekend. Happy travels!
Credits: Aliza McAndrews, Access PR Intern
5 Instagrams You Should Follow
Add some fresh faces to your Instagram feed! We've pulled five of our favorite personalities on Instagram!
Add some fresh faces to your Instagram feed! We've pulled five of our favorite personalities on Instagram!
Jennifer Grace
@thenativefox
This stylist, editor, model and designer is based in Southern California. She works with major brands such as DVF, Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, and Neiman Marcus. Her style is very simple but modern and through her blog you can find inspiration daily.
India Rose
@indiaroseco
This London based blogger runs the lifestyle website india-rose.co. This blog features photography, personal style, short films, music, and interviews. It boasts a fresh and urban perspective and aims to inspire.
Aleali May
@alealiemay
This fashion blogger also works as an image consultant and model. She started her work in fashion with Louis Vuitton and now has collaborated with many brands such as Nike and Adidas. She uses her blog as an outlet to share experiences in not only fashion but also travel and entertainment.
Brittany Xavier
@thriftsandthreads
This California based blogger is very relatable since she regularly wears affordable and easy to access clothing. You can find many of her outfits at stores such as H&M, Topshop, and Zara. She even links her pieces on her blog to make it super easy to find and purchase. She describes her style as versatile, casual and comfortable.
Rocky Barnes
@rocky_barnes
Born and raised in Southern California, this blogger is a beach girl at heart. She describes her lifestyle as gypset, which is a fusion of the carefree lifestyle of a gypsy with the sophistication of the jet set. She created her blog to share her personal style, modeling work and travels.
Curated by Aliza M. (Access Intern)
Editor's Notes - NYFW SS17
A few of our Creative Directors personal tips that she use to get through all fashion weeks.
So it's here! We do this twice a year, sometimes more. Yet, fashion week never seems to lose it's touch. I won't relive the madness this time. Just decided to share a few tips that I use to keep myself organized during the week. If you're attending fashion week for the first time or as another page in the book, I'm sure my suggestions could help.
And as always I've shared a few of the pieces I'm packing for the week. A few will be custom made and aren't listed, keep a look out for those on social media. The pieces are scattered throughout this pieces, in no orders, check for the completed looks later.
Note #1
Pen & Paper aren't dead. The convenience of an iphone can't be beat, I won't even argue that. But writing your free thoughts down in a journal between shows, will bring out the best of your ideas. Don't ask me how I know this, just trust me it works! Still take some organized notes in a more modern way, but keep a journal handy incase.
Note #2
Business cards & social media handles; it's 2016, get both. Networking is something that you can't avoid and unless you're overly comfortable with your current career status, it's something that you won't want to avoid. You'll have your business cards ready to go, but this time when you're wrapping up your networking pitch, ask for that social media handle. Here's why: connecting with someone immediately will make the next time you have to revisit that networking moment so much simpler. Over time you will have built a relationship from social media interaction, now your re-introduction over email should be well received. If they're a frequent social media user, you'll also be up to date with their current projects, making speaking points and collaborations a lot easier as well. Even if they are a private person, they'll have platform for public use.
NOTE #3
Here's a chance to show your multitasking skills. Live tweets can only take you up. I'm not one for flooding Instagram feeds, unless you're certain the images will break the internet. But flooding my TL with tweets from a great event is something I'll always love. While you're at various show, tweet your thoughts as they happen. Readers always love insiders viewpoints and guest images that aren't so staged as major publication images sometimes are. You'll find that more readers may gravitate in anticipation of your next event and honest view points. If your event allows and you have time, consider Periscope for one extra step in live feeds. Seeing a live stream has become a great tool for many this year.
Note #4
Save battery power. If you're like me and attend all day events regularly, you know how important electronic's battery power can become. Most times, having my mophie fully charged with me does the trick. To get the most of my original charge, I make sure to change my apple products battery power to power save mode, even when they're fully charged. I know I check my most important apps on a regular schedule, so there's no reason for my phone to continue pushing for that last email. It also stops my phone from wasting power on apps that won't be used at all that day. Another tip to conserve battery power is to close out apps that aren't being used. It's easy to forget you have multiple apps open on apple products. Just double tap the home button and close out whatever isn't being used. (Sorry Android users, I have no idea how batteries work on those.)
Note #5
Connect on the scene. You'll meet tons of influencers and industry professionals during the week. (No avoiding networking) We spoke about exchanging contact information, but if you really have to chance to speak with someone during the event, see if they have anytime to grab a quick cup of coffee. You'll have a chance to pick their brain for more about their background and work. Making a connection on the spot is always the best option.
If you have any tips that keep you together during fashion week, share them in the comments below or email accessbynkc@gmail.com!
NYFW X ACCESS MEDIA TEAM
Meet the people who capture all the madness. Our NYFW SS17 Media Team.
New York Fashion Week is almost here! This year we're doing it bigger than ever! We've partnered with Walk Fashion Show as their regional media partner, meaning all of your exclusive fashion week coverage will coming from yours truly. We'll have exclusive designer interviews, behind the scenes footage, live feeds and more. Make sure you follow all of our social media platforms to keep up with the action! We'd like to introduce to our SS17 NYFW media team, who will be making all of this magic possible! Check out the media team's bios below and save some of their contact information for future projects!
Harrison, Hart
Age: 22
hhart1@students.towson.edu
Phone: 410.598.1703
www.harrisonhartphotography.com
Instagram: @hhart1
Harrison Hart is a Baltimore native with a passion for photography and filmmaking. Growing up with a camera in hand, he is documenting the world through his lens – capturing people and places with his unique style.
As a photographer, Harrison develops images that tell the story of the kinetic world around us. His photographs are a celebration of the inspirational and beautiful aspects of life. They are also compassionate depictions of people and situations which are more desperate and call out for our attention. Harrison brings a unique artistic style to his photographs of weddings, special events, portraits, and sporting events. His documentary photography tells the stories of issues and human situations with clarity and poignancy.
Bria Scott
Age: 19
Email: BlackMythPhoto@gmail.com
Phone: (484)350-7407
Website: (Coming in October)
Social Media Handles: Instagram: @BlackMythPhoto
Bria Scott is a Philadelphian creative who was born and raised in a small section of Germantown known as Dogtown. She is currently enrolled at the University of the Arts to study the advancement of Photography and Film while pursuing her own photography business under Black Myth Photography which was formed in the Winter of 2013. Her work is inspired by geniuses such as Hype Williams, A$AP Rocky, ScHoolboy Q, and Onoe Capone.
Tristan Baboolal
Age : 23
Email: StanWayne15@yahoo.com
Phone: 240-752-2183
Web: Iamstanwayne.com
Instagram: _Stanwayne_
Mariah Rachel Burke
Age: 23
mrburke@wesleyan.edu
267.231.8724
mrburke.wix.com/mariahrachelburke
instagram: mariahrachelburke
My name is Mariah Rachel Burke. I am a born and raised Philadelphian who spent years photographing the city around me before moving up and away. I attended Wesleyan University where I studied English and Film. I have spent over four years in the film industry, during which I have worked on projects for Ira Sachs, Eric Weber, Nike SB, among others. I am currently producing an independent film directed by a Wesleyan alum, set to shoot in September, 2016. My photography has been published by Method Magazine and will appear in Prolific Quarterly and Element Magazine in Fall 2016. I have spent time living in Philadelphia, New York, Madrid, and New Orleans.
Name: Kyle Avery Adams or Montrekyle
Age: 21
Email: kadams916@gmail.com
Phone number: 2674428509
Website: vimeo.com/montrekyle Instagram: @montrekyle
Montrekyle is a visual artist who creates short fashion films along with captivating visual artist features throughout DC Philadelphia and NY.
For more information on the NYFW Media Team, please use the contact information provided or email accessbynkc@gmail.com.
Access Social Media Information. (It's so simple)
TWITTER/INSTAGRAM/FACEBOOK/PERISCOPE/TUMBLR/PINTEREST/SNAPCHAT
@ACCESSBYNKC
Fade x Kanye West x Teyana Taylor
FADE x Kanye West x Teyana Taylor
In case you missed the debut of Kayne West's "Fade" music video starring Teyana Taylor, we have the full video.
We love the way the video was premiered for the first time during the MTV Video Music Awards, along with the creative concept. The sex appeal of Teyana Taylor mixed the 80's vibe of dancer in the gym was phenomenal.
Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
Travel Diaries: Summers in India
Travel Diaries. Our intern, Megana shares stories about her trip to India.
24 hours In...
Within the first 24 hours of landing, my parents told me that they had decided to throw a 25th Anniversary Party the night after I landed. Being exhausted and jet lagged, I was not too happy about this. The only plus side of this was that I got to go shopping the next day and get an outfit for the party. The other plus was that since my Dad has between 50-100 first cousins, the amount of relatives I have is…just too many. This party would allow everyone to convene in one spot therefore making it easier to meet everyone in one night. This is me and my sister at the beginning of the night awaiting the arrival of all of ours cousins.
Detoxing with Momma…
The heat and muggy weather in India plus the non-stop Monsoon season does nothing beneficial for your skin and hair in India. Lucky for me, my grandmother is a wiz at making natural face masks and detox teas to keep that digestive system in check. Every morning after eating breakfast, she would mix turmeric, flour, rose petals, milk and water to make a soothing face mask. After about 20 minutes you scrub the mask off so that all the baby hairs are taken off your face, and you are left with a beautiful glowing face. While sitting outside waiting for our facemasks to dry, my mom and I would sit outside and drink a mixture of warm water, honey and lemon. Sitting outside with my mom while watching the cows walk by is quality time that I will always cherish.
Reliving the past…
While planning for my grandparent’s party, we decided that we needed to make a slideshow of all the old pictures of their many years together. While going through all the albums with my mother and grandmother, I came across this beautiful gem. This was the first time I had seen a color photo of my parents wedding. It was definitely a treat to be able to see where I came from and the beautiful Indian ceremony they had. Seeing this only made me more excited for the day when I get to be an Indian bride.
Mid-morning snacks…
One of the perks of visiting India is that you get to eat an absurd amount of Indian food and no one can say anything about it to you. People there typically feed you till you’re about to vomit. One morning I was just dying for one of my favorite snacks, which is called, Pani Puri. If you haven’t heard of this before, it’s a thin little fried ball that is completely hollow. You poke a hole in it then fill it with various ingredients such as chickpeas and onions. After that, you pour the pani, or spicy water, in to soak it and then quickly stick it in your mouth! Your mouth gets completely consumed by spice and taste followed by a nice crunch. This is a snack you should never miss if you visit India.
A sight to be seen…
On a bright but cloudy day, my mom decided to take me, my sister and my boyfriend, who surprised me by coming to Hyderabad, to the Birla Mandir. These temples are located all around India and are completely white. This temple was placed on top of a mountain peak, so the drive up took awhile. We weren’t allowed to take cameras or phones inside so I wasn’t able to capture the view from up top, only a photo from the parking lot. But may I say the view from the top was absolutely breathtaking. You could see the river and all the houses spread out throughout Hyderabad city. The best was the cool breeze that left you feeling amazing. The temple itself was beautiful on the inside and out. It was filled with many deities next to amazing views from the top. If you ever have the chance to visit India, visit a Birla Mandir Temple.
Last Minute Fittings…
Due to my late arrival and quick departure, I had a limited amount of time to find the perfect outfit for my grandparents 50th Anniversary party. We ended up going to my favorite tailor to figure out if she could stitch a ghaghra (Indian skirt and top) for me, and we ended up finding the perfect cotton candy pink one that was made for an exhibition. All it needed was to be opened up a little, and then it would fit perfectly. This picture shows a last minute fitting at 10 p.m. the night before the big bash.
Typically in India, most clothing is handmade by tailors all around India. They have workers that stitch beautifully and do intricate work with beads and thread. This tailor in particular has a knack for making outfits that are perfectly fitting and flatter your body. There is no doubt that this is the woman I want making my wedding outfits.
Blood is thicker than water…
My dad always told me his favorite quote is “Blood is thicker than water,” meaning that family bonds will always be stronger than any other bond we have with friends or anyone else in the world. Family is the reason I visit India at the end of the day. Yes the clothes are beautiful and the food is delicious, but my grandparents are the number one reason for me to be here. I only ever get to see them every 2-3 years, so having the opportunity to take time off of my internship and visit them was something I will always be thankful for. This photo represents my mom’s side of the family, minus her older brother’s entire family, but it overall represents all the love we have for each other and all the laughter that fills the house. If I had the chance to see them every year, I would never pass that up. I must say that the saddest part of leaving India is having to say bye to my grandparents. At this old age, you never know what is going to happen, and being so far away only makes it more difficult. While leaving for the airport I tried to hold back the tears as I gave them hugs and they said “I love you megu, I miss you.” That’s why I will always be thankful for them and everything they have given me. I will always love and miss you Amamma, Nanama, and Thatha.
Credits: Megana (@anagem12), Access Intern
THEakasha is Destined for Great Heights
Theakasha shares music because she wants to connect with others on a deeper level. Her message can't be said with just words..
“DO IT!!!! DO IT ALL! DO ANYTHING YOU WANT TO DO! EVER! BUILD YOUR NETWORK, BUILD YOUR BRAND AND DON’T EVER LISTEN TO A “CAN’T”! YOU ARE POWERFUL!!!!”
Up and coming creative, Theakasha, is set to spin for Wildfire: The Series. The event, taking place April 30th, is aimed at providing a platform for emerging creatives and artists to showcase their designs and talents.
With humble beginnings in Jersey City, NJ, most of Theakasha’s inspiration came from her childhood. “There’s so much beauty and pain in my city, I’m a product of all of it. Some things that particularly used to inspire me in my younger years were RIP street memorials.” Seeing countless memorial taught her to embody the struggle between beauty & pain. The creative has been always been drawn to things that aren't always aesthetically beautiful, but so detailed that they make you feel. Her need to evoke and create emotions from people is what keeps her pushing through all of her work.
The 22-year old creative took interest into DJ’ing after graduating high school. She looked at Vashtie Kola and other black female disc jockeys with admiration. It was after a Black woman, in multiple industries doing all the things she wanted to do that she quickly realized everything was in reach of her. Currently living in Philadelphia has provided her the perfect platform to get started.
“I’ve always had an eccentric music taste and I’ve always been skilled at discovering fire underground music, since high school.”
With her expanding lists of events, Theakasha hopes to make this her main source of income in the next year. "..Meaning that I won’t have to work anywhere outside of my brand, I’ll still have my hands in many pots engineering, directing, curating, etc., but I won’t have to go outside of what I love to be able to pay my bills and feed myself." If you can't catchTheaskasha at our upcoming event, no worries the summer will be crazy for her! Stay updated with all of her shows and appearances at theakasha.us/events.
Quick Q&A with Theakasha
How would you describe your overall style?
Gracefully nonchalant.
During a set what is something you do to set yourself apart from other DJ's?
I ask people to bring me packs of Tropical Skittles & I hate trap music, so don’t come to a set of mine expecting to hear that all night.
Are there any celebrity events you would like to DJ? Why?
I really want to live DJ a Paris or Milan fashion week show. For a cute designer brand like Kenzo or Chloe. Just because I always think certain songs should be Naomi Campbell walked to and I’m always thinking about how much better models & clothes would look if the music was better or more cohesive.
What would you say your spirit animal is?
Saying “spirit animal” is very appropriative of Native American cultures, so I never say that. BUT, for the sake of the question it’d probably be a Tupac/Eartha Kitt hybrid.
LINK UP WITH THEAKASHA
Curated by Niani Patterson (nianipatterson@aol.com)
Keep Breakfast Simple - Quick & Delicious Recipes
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, don't skip it! 15 minute recipes or less.
Don't have much time to spare for morning meals? Check out these recipes to quickly satisfy the most important meal of the day!
Mushroom and Egg White Omelet
Peach-Mango Smoothie
Banana and Almond Butter Pancakes
Easy Breakfast Burrito
Share you favorite recipes in the comments below or send them to info@accessbynkc.com.
Meet the Visual Art Visionary at Wildfire:The Series
Kira Dixon will be your new favorite artist, get to know the body-painting creative.
Artistic Philadelphia Native, Kira Dixon aka Nebulus Flair, is set to showcase her art at Wildfire: The Series. The event, taking place April 30th, is aimed at providing a platform for emerging creatives and artists to showcase their designs and talents.
Kira took her first leap into painting in 2012. At first it started as a hobby. Painting was a vehicle for her to escape the struggles of everyday life. Since then, her hobby has bloomed into a paid side project. Thanks to the emergence of social media apps, Kira has been able to showcase and capitalize her artwork.
“I just started posting my art and before I knew it, people began hitting me up for shows.”
Kira specializes in canvas art and bodypainting. Some of her favorite colors to use on her models are her black, red, and gold. "I love to make the body art look like cat suits - that's why my black lines are always so thick."
One of the most enjoyable parts about painting the models at creative events is the networking aspect. Whether it’s a photoshoot or a showcase, bodypainting is one form of art the offers effortless networking and friendships. Kira makes it a point to stay nonchalant about her work, she believes that putting too much pressure on herself would stop the fun.
When asked if she could paint anyone in the world, Kira said Josephine Baker. “I know she would have been inspired by what I created on her and it would have been interesting to see what she would have came up with.”
Expect to see Kira and her artwork at Wildfire: The Series on April 30th. Her paintings and upcoming events can be found on her Instagram (@Nebulusflair_).
Quick Q&A with Kira Dixon
How would you describe your overall style?
I would say it's raw and untamed..
If you could collaborate with any artists, who would it be?
I would love to collab with Solange! I know she doesn't actually do art but she's so creative & daring so I'm sure her and I could conjure up something dope.
Tell us a little known fact about yourself?
I'm a Leo and my favorite color is gold.
Curated by Niani Patterson (nianipatterson@aol.com)
Editor's Notes No.3 - 48 Hours in Boston
We're headed to "The City on a Hill". Spend 48 hours in Boston with us.
First time in Boston, MA. A quick little getaway. Originally, I was just tagging along on one of my mum's business trips, I haven't seen any family since Christmas. (Time to recalibrate my priorities.) But of course I found a way to turn a vacation into work, I scheduled a few meetings with local interior designers. I'm hoping they can shed a little light onto my design theme for Access by NKC's upcoming pop-up shop. I'm really pushing the team to come up with the most chic yet cost efficient decor. We might have to put in extra work, but I'm positive the unique, hand-crafted setting will leaving a lasting impression on guests.
- NKC, Creative Director
Share your thoughts with me at nkc@accessbynkc.com.
The weather in April is always so strange, but this year it's crazy! The temperature is so cold, mixed with the rain - it's almost unbearable. (It snowed in Philadelphia yesterday!) Unfortunately, my looks aren't very reflective of early Spring, but I'm headed up north so I had to bundle up. Regardless, the looks are still very simple & cute; perfect for a carry-on size bag.
Shop my looks for the next 48 hours below:
ASOS Suede Shearling Coat in 70's Styling - $291 / Ralph Lauren Brown Boswell Classic Tote - $200 / Forever 21 Hooded Side-Zip Dress - $35 / Ego UK Ivy Over the Knee Black Faux Suede Boots - $75 / Burberry Blue Exploded Check Cotton Flannel Shirt - $350 / Reebok FuryLite Cheetah Print Running Shoes - $75 / Go Jane Double Scoop Sleeveless Jumpsuit - $20 / Crea Concept Black Cropped Asymmetric Jumper - $79
Stay Updated With All of Our Editor's Notes & Travel Diaries. Subscribe to Our Newsletter.
Shoe Designer Renata Eileena Brings Glitz and Glam to Wildfire: The Series
Fashion entrepreneur, Reneta Eileena aims to mix things up at our upcoming pop-up shop with her custom shoe designs.
“I would mix bold colors and even at an early age I had been known for the unique clothes and shoes that I would wear.”
Fashion entrepreneur, Renata Eileena will be showcasing her shoes and cosmetics at pop-up shop Wildfire:The Series. The event, taking place April 30th, is aimed at providing a platform for emerging creatives and artists to showcase their designs and talents.
Born and raised in Philadelphia, even at an early age, Renata always knew that her passion for fashion would take her far.
The 30-year old designer began creating her custom shoes in 2010 while working at a temp agency. After realizing that her craft was more than just a hobby, Renata went full-fledged with her footwear designs. By 2014, she developed her own custom footwear, thus creating Renata Eileena, LLC! To date, Reneta Eileena has seen a significant growth in visibility. Her brand has landed her magazine interviews with Karen Civil and a feature on VH1's, Lala's Full Court Life.
Currently Renata Eileena, LLC offers a variety of custom heels and sneakers, along with bedazzling bustiers. The brand’s mission statement focuses on creating custom pieces for bold, fearless, and creative women. The ideal client is a woman who is not afraid to be a showstopper. In the near future, Renata plans to open a cosmetic line, Possible by Renata Eileena.
Expect to see Renata’s flamboyant designs on April 30th, 2016 at the Wildfire: The Series pop-up shop, hosted by Access by NKC. The day long event is aimed at giving emerging designers and performers a platform to showcase their designs and talent.
Shop Reneta Eileena Custom Shoes Here!
Curated by Niani Patterson (nianipatterson@aol.com)
Accessory Designer Melissa Janae Brings Her Charm(s) to Wildfire: The Series
Glam Nation brings the finishing touches to Wildfire: The Series.
“I’ve always had a love for accessorizing. I believe that accessories are the heartbeat of any outfit.”
Philadelphia native and accessory designer, Melissa Janae shares her designs at The Wildfire Series. The event, taking place April 30th, is aimed at providing a platform for emerging creatives and artists to showcase their designs and talents.
The self-described creative and free spirit started Glam Nation in 2012. Originally set to be a cosmetics brand, Glam Nation eventually transformed into an accessory line.
Much of Melissa's inspiration stems from vintage fashion, old Hollywood films to be exact. With the likes of Carmen and Casablanca, decorative and ornate styles are the foundation of her designs. “I would describe my overall style as BIG, eye catching, and controversial.”, states Melissa Janae.
In the future, Melissa envisions her Glam Nation pieces being worn on celebrities such as Solange, Janelle Monae, Lupita Nyong’o, Erykah Badu and Rihanna. In addition to opening a boutique, she also plans on adding more simpler pieces to her collection.
The 28 year old designer’s custom headpieces and necklaces can be purchased at Wildefire: The Series, as well as Etsy.
Curated by Niani Patterson (nianipatterson@aol.com)
Travel Diaries: The Row NYC
Find out about The Row NYC and our stay during New York Fashion Week!
With all the madness during New York Fashion Week, we managed to slip sleep into our schedule! During our stay in the city, we took up temporary residence at The Row NYC. The Row NYC is conveniently located in the heart of Times Square, sitting on W 44th St & 8th Ave. Upon arrival we were amazed to see such a grand entrance, the main lobby of the hotel is elevated, promoting guest to travel by elevator or stairs to begin the check in process. We quickly learned that this was a innovative hotel, up to date with the latest technology. Most notable, the lobby contained a full Mac Desktop Lounge, while elevators were organized by punching your floor number into a keypad and in return your were prompted with a elevator (A-H) to wait next to; taking you to your exact floor, no stops in between. (see photo is gallery)
The rooms were quite cozy (very common if you're familiar with New York hotel rooms), rooms included a low bed, with a desk area, multiple outlets throughout the room (perfect for a blogger) and a bathroom hidden behind a barn-style door. Our favorite accent in the room was the one wall displaying a vibrant color and quirky phrase, our's was "Light Out Please"!
Now to the good stuff! FOOD! The Row is located near almost anything you could think you would need in the city; food, bars, shopping, drug store, Broadway, etc. But in the dead of a New York winter we would rather not go outside if we didn't need to and City Kitchen saved the day. City Kitchen is a food-court style eatery featuring a wide variety of cultural cuisine. From Luke's Lobster Rolls to Donut's massive gourmet donuts, City Kitchen is show to have something you're in the mood for. The Row NYC also featured a state of the art gym and full service beauty shop for any last minute needs.
All in all, we can say The Row NYC definitely made our week at New York Fashion Week that much easier. If you're in the city, be sure to give them a try!