Stay at Home, Even In The Summer.
While the EU is expected to reanalyze the list of banned countries every two weeks, that doesn't mean European vacations are back on.
On July 1, the European Union officially re-opened their external borders to nonessential, non-EU passport holders. The borders have been closed since mid-March, when lockdown procedures were officially being enacted. Europe was not the only country to do so. 27 other countries have announced that they will be opening up their borders as well. However, not everyone will be allowed in. Only residents from 15 countries, all of which have the coronavirus under control, will be allowed entry. This means that residents from the US, which currently has the highest amount of cases, Russia, and Brazil, will have to continue staying at home. While the EU is expected to reanalyze the list of banned countries every two weeks, that doesn't mean European vacations are back on.
According to a CNN report, two EU ambassadors said that the US would need to have "a dramatic turnaround" in cases before their residents would be allowed entry. All the current countries who's residents are allowed into Europe have the same, or fewer, average new cases as the EU has had in the past 14 days. The EU has reported 16 per 100,000 cases in mid-June. In the US, the average in mid-June was 107 new cases per 100,000 people, so it's safe to say we might not be going to Europe this summer. While tourism is likely to suffer, as the US brings in a lot of vacationers annually, this is a serious matter, and the benefits are not worth the risk on both ends.
Lean, Mean, Cleaning Machines
The Best Type of Clean is Delta Clean
Airports are one of the emptiest public spaces in the world ever since the rise of Covid-19. Thousands of people have ended up cancelling family vacations, summer get-aways, and honeymoon destinations because of the virus. It is a concern if traveling will ever be normalized after the outbreak and if people will revert back to feeling safe being closer than 6 feet and not wearing masks. This is detrimental to all airlines globally, because they profit off of people booking trips and flying their aircrafts to their destinations. One company in particular has been able to tackle the concerned travelers with their new and improved sanitization protocols that have been put in place recently this year. Delta Airlines launched their new standard for clean in February known as “Delta Clean”. As they are committed to the health and safety of their customers, they have adopted a new measure of cleaning, disinfecting, and inspecting the plane before and after each flight that takes off and lands. Just after a few short months of implementation, there has been a significant increase in flight bookings. By creating these new cleanliness plans, airlines like Delta are striving to make their customers feel at ease every time they fly, not just because of the virus.
Photo Credit: Youtube and delta.com
Report: Hannah Zaremba
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
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
Links We Love - No.3
The latest and greatest links from this past week & more...
Why Minimal Doesn’t Have To Mean Boring
"From clever cuts to lovely construction, minimal fashion doesn't give it all away immediately"
via refinery29.com
Audio: Justin Timberlake, “Can’t Stop The Feeling”
"Justin Timberlake breaks his hiatus with a flirty, upbeat summer jam, 'Can’t Stop the Feeling.'”
via saintheron.com
Zoë Kravitz Is The New Face of YSL Beauty
"As part of her collaboration with YSL, the actress and fashion muse will share some of her beauty tips and favorite looks as well as star in a corresponding video project."
via saintheron.com
Lupita Nyong'o Graciously Shuts Down Vogue's Comparison to Audrey Hepburn
"Lupita cited Nina Simone as one of her sources of inspiration. However, Vogue reported that Lupita's mane was reminiscent of a shoot the magazine did (below) with Audrey Hepburn in 1963."
via popsugar.com
Rolls-Royce Wraith Luggage Collection
"Designed in the same studio by the same people that brought the car to life, the Rolls-Royce Wraith Luggage Collection is the perfect accompaniment for a long trip."
via uncrate.com
Shop Our Resort 2016 Picks
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
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Editor's Notes No.2 Recap: 6 Days in South Beach
Viva la Miami! I'm back with photos to share! Take a look!
Back from Miami! If you read my last set of notes, you know my goal was to put work on hold for once and enjoy myself. Mission accomplished...sort of. I succeeded with putting work on hold until the last day, at that point my email inbox was getting out of control. So I answered a few emails, that's it and that's all. That's not what this post is about though, I wanted to share some of the amazing photos I captured while living the life in South Beach. The vibrance of Miami really is like no other, you can feel the latin infusion in all most every photo. From the live music to the Cuban food, Miami is like a little piece of heaven. Enjoy. xx.
Let's chat! Share any thoughts, comments, or questions: nkc@accessbynkc.com
The Editor's Notes: No.1
The first of many. Our creative director, NKC, debuts here series of notes. Check-in occasionally to get an inside look at her thoughts on life, fashion, travel and more.
Some of you may know me, some may not. That's expected. Here's my background.
Naomi. (NKC). 22. Lifestyle Branding. Creative Director of Access by NKC. Travel Obsessed.
I struggled with the thought of creating this portion of our blog. Normally as a creative director, I secretly flourish on hiding behind the scenes. I like to know that I can openly create without the stigma or the scrutiny placed the actual creative versus attention to the work. Access by NKC being my personal obsession, I started off wanting to keep all my focus on the newly launched company. But at last, here I am, beginning to document the various stories of my life. I'll do my best to keep my thoughts pure and transparent. I'm excited to finally meet my readers on a different level. Enjoy. NKC. xx
It's the week before I take off to Houston and it's literally dragging on! I'm beyond ready to feel some sun on my skin. I wanted to share a few things I'll be bringing along with me. (A few items might look out of place for the season, but the weather can be weird around these times, I would hate to be caught off guard.) Be sure to follow my travels on instagram: @accessbynkc. Shop my trip below:
Wolford Strong Control Opaque Slip Dress $272/Missguided Jeweled Heeled Sandals $50/Topshop 'Planet' Genuine Shearling Clutch $95/Go Jane Back To Basics Rib Knit Bodysuit $18/B-LOW THE BELT Bri Bri Belt $148/Forever 21 Buttoned Denim Pencil Skirt $15.90/Missguided Sheer Top High Neck Jumpsuit $59/Missguided Woven Gladiator Heeled Sandals Snake $60/Banana Republic Larkin Tote $199/Forever 21 You Are What You Wear Dress $17.90/COMME DES GARÇONS PLAY Heart-Print Pro Sneakers $140/American Apparel Print Cotton Spandex Sleeveless Thong Bodysuit $36/Nasty Gal Shake Down Fringe Jacket $68/Zara Leather Jacket $189/Zara Jacquard Knits Co-ords $65
Read about my time at New York Fashion Week 2016. Interviewed by the lovely Hannah Tucker, AMCONYC Fashion Shows, behind the scenes with Walk Fashion and more!
At the rise of Covid-19 many of us first questioned the timeline of fashion week and would we see the regular calendar continue - the question weighed over many of us for months! It was refreshing to see design houses and designers across the globe take advantage of the uncertainty and plow into production mode - thus my interest in Jerri Reid New York - The Black Designer based in Brooklyn New York wow’d instagram with his latest collection paying homage to the Black Is King film which debuted earlier this year in July. I was taken aback at quick of a turn round the young designer produced and released his well crafted designs reflecting some of the films most memorable moments.