September : Fashion Week Looks The Same, But Is it?
We’ve come through the first waves of digital representation for fashion week amidst COVID19 - the rather quick approach was the result of safety precautions taken by the government to “Flatten The Curve” of what seemed to be an aggressive rise in infections, but more importantly, deaths.
Image provided by flare.com
Designers across the spectrum of fashion within the industry presented their creative take on Digital shows - amongst those who successfully adapted; Loewe, Balmain, Maison Margiela, Dior Men, Gabriela Hearst, and of course, who could forget Hanifa and their viral 3D show earlier this year.
The concept or idea of solely presenting collections on the runway, but digitally - honestly had many of us up in arms - the runway, the community, the art, has been rooted in the pride of sitting front row, being bombarded by photographers on the street for your overly thought out but carefully executed fashions, and of course, the day after “Who’s Who” post from bloggers and media outlets,and yet, we survived.
So now that we are looking at September (which has been shortened to 3 days the 14th -16th according to CFDA ) and continuing with the digital space, it’s to be expected that we will see a small return to physical shows and community while maintaining an emphasis on live streams and virtual shows.
Production companies, creative directors are all facing a very exciting time in fashion - there are no rules, the old way of doing things, for the moment, is suspended - even the calendar itself has no room in this innovative time.
From live look books, 3D runways, virtual reality as a means of attendance, and yes even live streams via your favorite social media platforms, the space for Collection Review is open to variety.
The intricate and anxiety inducing task of producing high caliber shows via the internet can be a game changer for many - the predicting of glitches, the testing of sites, overload back house prep, lighting, graphics, it's all still very complex - kudos to those doing this seamlessly, and a big “ You can do this” from us here at Access to those who are figuring it out along the way.
Whatever happens next in fashion, one thing is for sure, Fashion will remain the Best Friend we all need.
Review: Gucci Fall 2020 RTW Collection Released at Milan Fashion Week
A review of the new Gucci Fall 2020 RTW Collection released at Milan Fashion Week.
Opening Milan Fashion Week, one of the most anticipated times during this month of back to back fashion shows, was Gucci. Only a few hours away from his hometown of Rome, Italy, Alessando Michele debuted the F/W 2020 collection and never fails to truly put on a show. Before showing off his myriad of frill pastel skirts, delicate puff sleeve tops, and pleated monochromatic pants, he displayed his models in a circular glass carousel just as they would step onto the runway.
Michele continues to keep his reputation of globally dominating the look of eccentric and extravagant presentations for Gucci. Focusing on layers in this show and being multidimensional, many looks consisted of high neck collars and some with ruffled details for the women. Snakeskin prints and plaid patterns were more prominent in the men’s outfits as they were placed in collared tops as well and flared pants. The 2020 pieces were not too far in detail compared to their F/W 2019 collection keeping some of the same The accessories were one of the protruding statements in the looks.
As the models walked one by one, there were handheld snake patterned purses, long cross chained necklaces, and some rhinestone drop earrings. Each look told a story and the accessories placed on top gave a ravishing dimension. There was little to almost no makeup presented and the facial expressions were neutral and serious as with almost everything that Michele has presented since he started at the Italian fashion house. (Photo source: Vogue)
Words by Pamela Valdez.
In The Industry: Loewe
Loewe is a luxury brand based in Madrid and owned by the LVMH group known for holding numerous luxury companies such as Chanel, Christian Dior and Givenchy.
Photo via Vogue Runway
Brand name: Loewe
Creative Director: Johnathan Anderson
Start year: 1846
About Loewe
Loewe is a luxury brand based in Madrid and owned by the LVMH group known for holding
numerous luxury companies such as Chanel, Christian Dior and Givenchy. The brand was
founded in 1846 by Enrique Loewe Hinton, who was granted as a fashion merchandise supplier
in the royal court by King Alfonso XIII of Spain. His wife Queen Victoria Eugenie was also a
frequent visitor of the store. The company deals with mostly leather products consisting of their
main produced item the Loewe signature bag for men and women. The company also sells many
other products such as ready-to-wear clothing, accessories, along with home and lifestyle
products for their average consumer. The brand has evolved into a huge best seller in the fashion
industry after many successful sales and shows, located with stores worldwide.
Fast forwarding to the present, the creative director of Loewe is Jonathan Anderson, who was
appointed in 2013. He debuted the brands ready-to-wear collection as the new director in 2014.
Anderson’s first issue of business was to remodel the stores and design clothing based from their
50s, 60s, and 70s style. With the new rebranding, a new logo was made as well along with the
new bag designs such as the “puzzle” bag.
Photo via Vogue Runway
Review: SS20 RTW
As we approach the fall season it’s time to put away the tank tops and sandals and bring out the
turtle necks and sweaters from our closets. In this collection, Anderson was focused on creating
modern and a very minimal aesthetic in this collection. Focusing more on silhouettes and the
shape of the garment rather than putting placement on the details. We can see that he drew
inspiration from the 18th and 19th century as the silhouette with jackets and long sleeve sweaters
create a hour glass shape to compliment the figure. In those eras the color palette consisted of
soft neutrals such as light browns, white, emerald green and gray; that was portrayed in this
wardrobe as well. The fabrics used were also very soft with clean and sharp cuts such as ruffles
along the hemline of the sleeves, leather along the collar and faux fur for scarves. Anderson
created a romantic and daring theme that has us all ready to wear this collection for fall.
Rating: Loewe SS20 RTW
This collection was definitely a 10/10. Drawing inspiration from styles that were produced years
ago and creating that image in a modern fashion in brilliant. Fashion is always evolving but
trends that were once popular in the past always come back. This 19th century way of dressing
was beautifully done in a way that showed a chic and high fashion style.
Photo via Vogue Runway
Photo via Vogue Runway
Credits: Access PR Editorial Intern, Khayla.
TOP 5 “MUST-HAVES” WHEN EXPLORING LONDON
"If you are planning a trip to England or about to study abroad in London, the following must-have items may come in handy!" - Aliza M.
Everyone travels and explores a new location in their own way, but practical advice from someone that has “been there and done that” is always worth considering. If you are planning a trip to England or about to study abroad in London, the following must-have items may come in handy!
A Good Rain Jacket
Depending on where you’re from, you may not be used to constant rain. Well, in London there is always a chance of rain! Carrying around an umbrella can be bulky and annoying, so I recommend a rain jacket as your best bet. I studied abroad in London during early summer, and a rain jacket was totally necessary.
Believe me, you won’t regret the convenience of a rain jacket when you are caught in a sudden rain shower as you are out and about exploring this amazing city. Find a rain jacket in a style that you like that can be carried or easily stashed away when you don’t need it. I found one that I was able to put in my backpack or purse when I didn’t need it, and trust me, it was the best thing ever to have that on hand to pull out in a sudden downpour.
An Oyster Card
This probably sounds super weird to someone that hasn’t visited London, but an Oyster card is a pass to ride the tube (what they call the subway in London). You may be given one by AIFS depending on your program — if not, absolutely buy one.
The tube is the main form of transportation in London and is very convenient. The class I took included many museum visits, and the easiest way to travel to and from museums was by way of the tube.
Also, all the fun tourist destinations you’ll want to see are only a tube stop away. On the weekends, we would take the Piccadilly Line down to Covent Garden to shop and eat. You could also hop on another line and go to Camden, which is a great place to grab a bite and hang out.
Pocket Change
Make sure to keep your change. Bathrooms in London are not always free (usually under 1 euro), so keep your spare change in case you need to run to the restroom. Also, never pass up a free restroom. It may seem like a strange suggestion now, but when you’re up and on the go, you never know when you’ll run into a bathroom next.
Also, they don’t use dollar bills in England. The one-pound currency is a coin, so you can expect to carry around a lot of change. I strongly advise carrying a wallet or purse for pocket change, so you’ll always have coins when you need them.
A Good Camera
London is a beautiful city, and you never know when you might want to snap a shot. I’m sure most people have smartphones so this is not a huge issue, but if you have a digital camera, I would advise you bring it.
I personally brought along a Polaroid camera, and the shots came out amazing. Pictures are a great way to share what you’re doing with family and friends back home, and you’ll love looking back at photos from your time abroad to reminisce in the future.
Plenty of Patience
While this is obviously an English speaking country, there are many differences between the way English people and Americans speak and communicate with each other. Although you may have been speaking English all of your life, it might not be as easy as you’re expecting to make yourself understood as an American in London.
You shouldn’t hesitate to get out and speak to Londoners to learn about the city and make new friends, but remember to be patient when you encounter travel frustrations. If you stay relaxed and friendly, you’ll find it easier to make the most out of your visit!
Credits: Aliza M., Access Public Relations Intern
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)
Lovello Elizabeth Sits Down with ETalksOnline
Lovello Elizabeth stopped by Etalksonline Radio!
Lovello Elizabeth stopped by Etalksonline Radio to tell us how she got started, her vision, and how Hip-Hop artist Dej Loaf got a hold of her pieces
Browse & Shop Lovello Elizabeth's Pre-Fall Collection
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
10+ Things You Didn't Know About Jasmine Jenai
Aspiring young blogger, Jasmine Jenai, describes herself as a mixture of Beyonce’s “6 Inch Heels” to “Formation”
An aspiring young blogger, Jasmine Jenai, describes herself as a mixture of Beyonce’s “6 Inch Heels” to “Formation”. She enjoys watching episodes of Bob’s Burgers, reading, and writing during her spare time. Jasmine Jenai, created Nai’s Visions in 2013 with a focus on inspirational content from areas of personal style to life experiences. Growing up in Tallahassee, Florida then moving to Atlanta, Georgia Jasmine have hopes of eventually moving to New York and starting her career in fashion. You can expect to see more honest conversations, brand collaborations, and personal style for blog in the future. Check out Jasmine Jenai’s full interview below.
Why did you decide to start this particular blog?
Nai’s Visions is a result of reluctantly creating a blog as part of a college course in 2012. I’d toyed around with the idea of starting a blog prior to being required to but I never got around to it. Once I started to take blogging seriously, I realized how passionate I was becoming about it and it made me want to create something that reflected who I am.
How would you describe your personal style? What influences it?
This question always makes me laugh because I used to try to come up with a profound answer but I would describe my style as feminine. I don’t like to put any other label on it besides that because I wear things according to how I feel. I like going with the flow. Lately I’ve been finding myself influenced by one of my co-worker’s style. She isn’t afraid to think outside of the box and wear what makes her feel great.
What are some of your favorite fashion houses or stores to go shopping in?
Right now I’ve been buying pieces from Zara and my job, Alexis Suitcase. I wholeheartedly believe in shopping a budget lol.
Would you consider yourself to be a feminist?
Do I consider myself to be a feminist? There was a brief period of time where I made it a point to call myself a feminist but I realize that I’m just a lover of justice for everyone. I don’t believe that people should be treated differently based on skin color, gender or any other limitations we as people place on each other.
You seem very passionate on issues such as empowering women of color and body positivity. Could you speak more on what these mean to you?
I was blessed to come in contact with the online movement #BlackGirlsWhoBlog, created by Morgan Pitts, in 2014 and found myself being introduced to so many creative black women. There are quite a few women that I still keep in contact with from this movement and they motivate me in so many different ways. The more I began to read and support the work of other black women, the more I realized how important it was for to me to open myself up and spread love to them. It’s no secret that black women face a myriad of issues regarding how we’re sometimes represented in the media or talked about on social media (*insert eye roll*) so I feel compelled to remind black women that we are brilliant and worthy. Talking about body positivity stems from coming to terms with being sexually assaulted as a teenager and being more aware of how many other women have body image issues. Sometimes when our bodies experience trauma or ridicule, we tend to hold on to the pain it causes us and it becomes a part of how we view ourselves. I decided that, as scary as it was and still is at times, I wanted to try something different by embracing my body as is and empowering other women to do the same. It’s okay if we’re not all shaped the same. Our bodies house incredible spirits that continue to persevere through the ups and downs of life. I say that’s a cause for celebration.
Who are some of your biggest role models? Why?
Anyone who knows me knows how much I adore Alexandra Elle, June Ambrose, Shiona Turini and Laina Rauma. Reading Alexandra Elle’s work has helped me TREMENDOUSLY during my self love journey. Her decision to be open, honest and vulnerable helped me realize that it’s okay for me to embody the same things. June Ambrose and Shiona Turini are admired because of their free spirits and work ethics in the fashion industry. Here you have two black women who continue to defy odds and break barriers in their careers. I can’t help but to love that. And Laina Rauma? My admiration for her stems from being fortunate enough to interview her for Nai’s Visions and realizing how down to earth she is. She’s light hearted yet is serious about her craft as a designer.
The writing on your blog is very passionate and inspiring and well put together. Do you think you would want a future in writing?
Thank you! I accidentally fell in love with writing after my mom made me practice my handwriting as a child lol. It was something I absolutely loathed at first but found that I was able to create stories from my imagination and the rest is history. I would love to work for a magazine one day. As much as I love fashion, I can’t see myself focusing solely on that. My main career goals include combining two of my greatest loves. I wouldn’t be where I am if it weren’t for being able to express myself through writing.
What are some of your long term goals not just for your blog but also for you personally?
Some of my long term goals include moving to NY (finally), moving into my first apartment, starting my career in fashion, creating relationships with top fashion brands and eventually writing a book.
Does being from Atlanta have any influence on who you are and what you believe in?
I’m originally from Tallahassee, Florida and I moved to Atlanta when I was 16. At first I was apprehensive about Atlanta being that it’s much bigger than my hometown but after being here for 8 years old, I realize this is definitely a second home to me. Living here inspires me to keep going. It makes me realize that my dreams are possible.
You seem like someone who is empowered and full of self confidence, how did you become that way and what advice do you have for people who perhaps aren’t as confident and are less sure of themselves?
It has taken me a long time to wake up and feel comfortable with myself. As a child I wasn’t insecure whatsoever. I considered myself to be this fearless, imaginative little girl who wasn’t afraid to let her personality shine. As I got older and experienced different things, I found myself silencing parts of who I am in order to make other people comfortable. My advice for anyone who is struggling with their self esteem is to learn how to be patient with yourself. Learning to love yourself is a process and it’s important to remember that you’re not in a competition. The way you love yourself doesn’t have to look like another person’s self love.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time you can honestly catch me writing, reading, watching episodes of Bob’s Burgers and talking on the phone.
What can expect to see from you or on your blog in the future?
Expect to see more honest conversations, brand collaborations and personal style.
What are you most excited about for the remainder of 2016?
I am most excited about gaining more experience in the fashion industry and taking the necessary steps to make my dreams a reality.
If you could go anywhere in the world right now, where would you go?
If I could go anywhere it would have to be Greece or Milan. I’ve always wanted to visit both places.
Which emojis do you use the most?
I probably use the “glow,” “kissy face,” “pink/red hearts” the most lol.
If you could use a song to describe yourself, which song would you use?
Choosing one song is so hard lol! Right now it’s a mixture Beyonce’s “6 Inch Heels” and “Formation.”
Curated by NKC (@therealnkc), Creative Director
Access Exclusive: The Meaning of MaCee
Candid, honest and drop-dead gorgeous, MaCee talks her new book, Kim K. inspiration, and why she's not afraid of platinum blonde.
Digging further into Instagram culture lead us straight to MaCee. For our returning readers, you know when we do social media features it's because they've really wowed us; MaCee did just that. She shows us that contributing to the social media culture doesn't mean you have to box your style or mind in. Sharing her thoughts and opinions on social, political and fashion topics; her followers are able to feel her unapologetic spirit. We dove a little deeper into that spirit.
Read MaCee's full interview below.
How did you get started designing?
I started stitching by hand at the age of 9. I would sew dresses on my barbie dolls. At that age I realized I loved designing things.
Finish this sentence: Dreamers are necessary because…
they are optimistic and always expect the best! Being a dreamer means your mind is open to all of the possibilities that life offers.
Do you plan on selling your pieces in the future?
I do plan on starting a line as soon as I can. Starting your own line is such a hard process. I hope to start within the next few years.
How did you develop your personal brand through social media? What's your secret?
I don't really have a media secret lol. I think the best thing I ever did when it comes to social media is to stop caring about it. Let it be something fun...do not ever let it become your life. Don't take it that seriously. At the end of the day.... it's just the internet lol. I also realized that the more you focus on what YOU feel comfortable with the better! Post what you like. Some people may not like it but its YOU that matters the most. When you become comfortable with yourself and the way you present yourself, social media becomes a breeze. When I began expressing myself through my writing on social media, I realized people connected to me better. They realized that I was much more than just a women who likes to "play dress up" lol. It's about connecting with people in a way that you love and most importantly staying connected to yourself.
Where do you go to write?
I usually write in my bedroom. It's where I feel relaxed.
For you, what’s the best part about living in New York City?
I think the best part is the subway lol. You can go anywhere you want without a car! You don't have to rely on others for transportation lol. I also love that the city is ALWAYS BUSY! You can be in times square at 3am and the streets are still full of people.
We’ve noticed that you use your social media platform to advocate for the beauty of black women. How important is it for you to continue to denounce the thoughts of what is considered “beautiful”?
I think it is so extremely important to show people that black women are so DIVERSE. Black women can pull off so many different looks and get away with it lol. I think people have placed black women in a box. We have to look and act a certain way because of society. People place us in a specific categories and expect us to act accordingly. I don't think the media represents black beauty correctly so I believe it's important for me and other women to break down these stereotypes and show people that black women come in so many different ways and are ALL beautiful in their own way.
You recently announced that you’ve started writing your book. What can we expect to learn + gain from your book?
I really want to pour all of my feelings into my book. I want people to learn and laugh from my book. I expect people to gain wisdom and see that everything isn't always what it seems. I hope people learn from my book. I don't want to give too much away but I really plan on revealing a lot of things I struggled with as a child and in my adult life.
In your opinion, what can fashion do to avoid mediocrity?
In my opinion, I believe that the more people start realizing that fashion is about what YOU like and what looks great on YOU...the more they will avoid mediocrity. I think people focus on who's wearing the outfit more than the outfit itself. If a certain celebrity wears a certain outfit, it immediately becomes trendy. I don't think people realize that you have to focus more on fashion for yourself, your body type.. and not just fashion. If a celebrity looks good in a certain outfit, it doesn't necessarily mean you'll look great in it lol. My style icon is KIM K. She sometimes wears things that I love on her but when I recreate the look on myself...it doesn't look as great lol.
Platinum Blonde seems to be a signature hair color for you (and you make it look amazing)! Any secrets for others wanting to pull it off.
Thank you!! I really think it's about confidence. I think it takes a bold black women to wear platinum blonde hair not care what people have to say about it lol. I Think its also about style. Finding a platinum blonde style that you love. Some black women look great in a short blonde pixie cut and not long blonde hair. It all depends on what you love.
Have you ever experienced racial discrimination in the industry? If so, how did handle the situation? What did you take away from it?
I think I experience racial discrimination everyday of my life lol, especially on social media. I feel like there are women who attack me more because I am black. I feel as though certain fashion media pages won't support me because of my color. It's one of those things that you can't exactly prove.. but in your heart you know what the issues is. I try not to let it bother me. There are so many other people who support me and do not care what color I AM. The best way I handle that is by shedding light on my experiences and other topics dealing with discrimination and show other people that they aren't alone.
Favorite book at the moment?
Well my favorite book will always be Go ask alice. Right now I am reading a book called "The doctor's wife"
If you had the chance to work along side one designer, who would it be? Why?
I would love to work with Tracy Reese. I feel as though she could teach me so many things about the fashion industry and her experiences.
One piece of advice that has always stuck with you?
My mom's advice always sticks with me. The best piece of advice she has ever given me was "You ain't got no friends" lol. What she meant was, everyone who smiles at you or is nice to you, doesn't always have your best interest at heart. People can be very conniving and its important that you keep your eyes open at all times.
What excites you most about tomorrow?
I think it excites me to know that everyday that passes means I am one step closer to my goals. I have so many hopes and dreams for my future.
Interview by: NKC (@therealnkc), Creative Director
Access Exclusive: Digital Art Gallery x Walt (VH1's Black Ink Crew)
At the Digital Art Gallery's 1 year anniversary event, we had a chance to pull Walt (VH1's Black Ink Crew) aside for a quick chat.
At the Digital Art Gallery's 1 Year Anniversary event, we had a chance to pull Walt (VH1's Black Ink Crew) aside for a quick chat. Partnered up with Kwashee Totimeh, the duo works to create redefined art exhibits in various cities. With no limit on mediums or expression, the events pull massive audiences to celebrate the cities creatives. Many recognize Walt by his role on a popular network reality tv show, Black Ink Crew; what most don't know is he's first and foremost an artist. Displaying his art through photography, Walt finds expression in all things.
Check out our full interview below.
Digital Art Gallery: @theDAGtour
Walt: @da_Wizrd
Credits -
Interview: Megana, Access Intern, @anagem12
Directed by: Access by NKC, @accessbynkc
In the Industry with Vanessa Edwards
The freelancer's hustle.. Unbeatable. Photographer, Vanessa Edwards takes us through two-days worth of industry norms.
We stepped in the life of freelance photographer, Vanessa Edwards for two days. Throughout our shadowing process we learned about her concepts involving shooting, creative development, editing and printing. Check out the video below for an exclusive look at being the behind the lens with Vanessa.
Learn more about Vanessa at FROMVENUSWITHLOVE.COM