19 Women-Owned Small Businesses to Follow
In the midst of influencers, department stores, fast fashion, and big beauty brands, it can be easy to forget how important it is to support small businesses.
In the midst of influencers, department stores, fast fashion, and big beauty brands, it can be easy to forget how important it is to support small businesses. They help shape and support our communities, and put more focus on the quality and craftsmanship of their products. The Small Business Association states that independent businesses can help reduce unemployment rates, and estimates that “small business owners create two out of every three net new jobs in the U.S, [which could increase] if consumers shifted just 10 percent of their business to local organizations.” Next time you are about to buy something from a large corporation, take a moment to think how you could be supporting these 19 (women-owned!) small businesses instead.
Fashion
• @Digitalkenteshop (Fitness Wear)
• @shopmucho (Latin-Inspired Clothing, Accessories, & Décor)
Jewelry
Beauty
Report: Libby Ayers
5 Beauty Brands Helping People During the Coronavirus Pandemic
With the coronavirus going around and putting people’s lives at risk, beauty brands are taking the initiative to give back to people in need during the pandemic.
With the coronavirus going around and putting people’s lives at risk, beauty brands are taking the initiative to give back to people in need during the pandemic. For the next 30 days, clean skincare brand Farmacy would be donating 10,000 meals a day to Feeding America, the nation's largest hunger relief organization. With a shortage of surgical masks in hospitals and urgent care clinics, The Crème Shop pledged to donate N95 masks to customer and hospitals running low on supplies. LVMH, which owns Dior, Fenty, and Sephora would be using their perfume factories to produce hand sanitizer. It would then be distributed to French health services and hospitals for free. The French beauty brand, L’Occitane announced that they would send their hand creams to hospital to help with dryness caused by constant cleaning for nurses and doctors. L’Oréal announced their initiative early last week. Their initiative includes using their factories to produce hand sanitizer and distributing it to the authorities. Their skincare brand, La Roche Posay will be providing hand sanitizers to partner French pharmacies, hospitals and care homes. While their haircare brand, Garnier will be supplying free hand sanitizer to European food distribution customers to help protect their employees and customers from the virus. They will also be donating 1 million euros to their non-profit partner organization, which will work to offer essential hygiene kits to social workers, volunteers and beneficiaries.
Report: Amanda Lou
Retail Therapy - The Myth Has Become Reality
How Consumers Are Flocking to the Web During Quarantine.
As a result of the Coronavirus pandemic, some of our favorite beauty brands and retailers are temporarily closing their stores to help prevent the virus from spreading. While in-store shopping is no longer available, many brands are still offering online services, as it is virtually impossible for the virus to survive throughout transit. If you suffer from anxiety and depression, experiencing higher levels during these challenging times is common. As it turns out, a little retail therapy is a proven way to help combat these issues.
According to Psychology Today, online shopping can provide a sense of relaxation and escape, as it is a mindless and calming activity. Another study from the Journal of Consumer Psychology notes that retail therapy can be beneficial in providing a sense of control and stability when you feel like you have no control over your environment. A handful of brands are even offering incentives to stay safe and socially distanced during these times such as free shipping. Many department stores, including Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s, closed their stores and are continuing with online services, and are still providing their employees with benefits and regular pay. Also, many beauty brands such as Glossier, Kiehl’s, Benefit Cosmetics, and many others are implementing the same policies. When engaging in retail therapy, supporting companies that ensured the health, safety, and security of their employees can help them to lead by example of what it means to protect employees during the current unforeseen circumstances the world is facing, and also for the future.
Report: Libby Ayers
Glossier drops new Skywash, inspired by the Southwest landscape.
Glossier released Skywash, their new liquid to powder finish eye tints.
Glossier released Skywash, their new liquid to powder finish eye tints. There are 7 available colors, inspired by the Southwest landscapes. The eyeshadows are dermatologist tested, smudge- resistant, gluten- free, cruelty- free, and vegan. Skywash is their second eyeshadow product. Lidstar is their glistening eye glow, that comes in 6 different colors. Skywash is their first matte eyeshadow drop.
Colors from left to right: Lawn, Pebble, Valley, Pool, Terra, Echo, and Palm.
Pool is a cornflower blue.Pebble is a neutral taupe. Echo is a cocoa brown. Terra is a burnt sienna. Valley is a warm peach. Palm is a golden beige. Lawn is a fresh green.
The doe- foot applicator makes for easy use. The seven shades are great for a pop of color, great for a minimal look. Tap with your fingers or use a brush for a sheer finish for a step up in a fresh look. Skywash retails at $18 or the Skywash Duo retails for $30.
Report: Katie Mok
Demi Lovato and Miley Cyrus Talk Staying Busy While Being Stuck At Home
Pop star Miley Cyrus has launched an Instagram Live Show called “Bright Minded: Live with Miley”. The show’s episode on March 17 featured an appearance from Demi Lovato, where they discussed how they’re keeping busy while at home and shared how they’re practicing self-care.
This week, pop star Miley Cyrus has launched an Instagram Live Show called “Bright Minded: Live with Miley” which offers hope and escapism, optimism, and a way to stay connected while people are practicing social distance. The live chat will air on the singer's Instagram every day this week at 11:30 a.m. PT/2:30 p.m. ET.
The show’s episode on March 17 featured an appearance from Demi Lovato, where they discussed how they’re keeping busy while at home and shared how they’re practicing self-care. Both singers enjoy using meditation apps like Headspace and Calm, while also enjoying quality time with their pets. Cyrus has been binge-watching “Love Island” while Lovato pledged to start knitting and do home workouts. Lovato practices breathing techniques and doing virtual therapy sessions with her therapist. She logs onto a guided prayer app daily, while maintaining her body with healthy foods and supplements. Lovato gave fans a tour of her “immunity table”, which included products like rubbing alcohol, Emergen-C, Manuka honey, apple cider vinegar gummies, vitamin C, CBD and probiotics. Lovato is also trying to use this time to be creative. Cyrus has been spending most of her alone time staying comfortable, she said, “I have not gotten of these sweatpants for five days and don’t plan on changing any time soon.”. She’s also working on the improving her skills with the guitar.
During the chat, they talked about why they rekindled their friendship. Lovato said, “It’s times like these to reconnect and realize what really matters. It’s important to stick together, especially being women in the industry. I feel like you've always been such a light and that's why we connected at 14.” Cyrus concluded their honest chat with an important for their fans to hear during the quarantine. Lovato said, “It's important not to beat ourselves up over getting nervous, over maybe not eating perfectly, not working out perfectly. These are different, very scary times. We've never been through anything like this in our lives. This is all new to everyone. Be gentle and take care of yourselves as much as possible."
Report: Amanda Lou
Dyson Hair Has Launched The Dyson Corrale Straightener
Dyson recently launched a hair straightener – the Dyson Corrale. The straightener took 7 years to make!
Dyson recently launched a hair straightener – the Dyson Corrale. The straightener took 7 years to make. Their goal is to straighten and style hair by using 50% less heat than their competitors. Its name comes from its ability to gather hair together. The plates are coated with nickel and smooth titanium nitride, the titanium eliminates friction so the Dyson Corrale straightens the hair smoothly.
There are 3 calculated heat settings – 330, 366- and 410-degrees Fahrenheit – for a variety of style options. The max 410 degrees can completely straighten curls while 365 degrees can be used for touch ups. The tool features comes with flexing plates made from manganese copper alloy that evenly apply heat and tension, which will result in less heat damage and color fading. The device is also cordless. Founder James Dyson said in a statement, "Since we first started developing the Dyson Supersonic hairdryer, we have continued to explore the science of style, seeking to understand what makes hair smooth, shiny and glossy, and what makes it dull, damaged and lifeless. We have been worried about the style results and heat damage from flat plate straighteners. Flat hair irons apply tension and heat only on the thickest part of the hair tress, the strands at the edges are not clamped, leaving them slack, unheated and leaving flyaways. It requires multiple passes on the same section of hair tress to give an even look, by which time excess heat may have caused reduced strength and less gloss," The Dyson Corrale is $500 and available now at www.dyson.com
Report: Amanda Lou
Shea Moisture Transitional Hair Repair Routine
Shea Moisture has you set with adding moisture back to your hair. While the cooler air can leave your hair brittle, this regiment of products is sure to bring moisture and life back to your hair. What's your favorite Shea Moisture routine?
This year’s weather has been unpredictable with the increase of warmer temperatures and the sudden change back to colder climates. As this can disrupt our skin, it can also damage our hair texture. The sudden change back to cool weather can result in dehydrated ends and lackluster shine. While Shea Moisture’s products are developed in collections, one of the best ways to revitalize your hair is by using products from different collections together bringing your hair back to life. Thanks to Shea Moisture, we have the repair routine for the transitioning season.
Start by giving your hair a deep, well-deserved cleanse with the African Black Soap Bamboo Charcoal Deep Cleansing Shampoo and Balancing Conditioner. Both help resolve dry scalps encouraging healthy hair. One new product to use next is the Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil Lush Length Lite Leave-In to detangle and nourish.
If looking for a silicone-free option, Shea Moisture’s Silicone Free Miracle Styler Leave-In Treatment uses Sugarcane Extract and Meadowfoam Seed to provide slip in place of silicones, which can weigh down fine hair. At the end of the week, treat your hair to the Purple Rice Water Strength + Color Care Masque. Formulated specifically for color-treated hair, this masque uses Purple Rice Water to strengthen strands and add shine while locking in color and preventing brassiness. By the time summer arrives, your hair will be thanking you for the much needed TLC.
Shop The Entire Routine Here!
Report: Necole Jackson.
The Honey Pot Accused of Racism After Innocent Target Commercial Airs
Black Owned Business The Honey Pot Accused of Racism After Innocent Target Commercial Airs- And It Only Causes Sales to Soar.
A black owned feminine hygiene business, The Honey Pot, was accused of racism after an innocent Target commercial featuring the brand first aired in February. The commercial was released for Black History Month, and was highlighted to promote and encourage black female entrepreneurs. In the commercial, founder of the company Beatrice Dixon mentions wanting The Honey Pot to do well as an example for the next young black girl who has a great business idea, just like she did. Apparently some viewers missed the point, and interpreted the ad as “racist.” They began leaving her 1-star reviews online, claiming that Dixon was saying her products were meant only for black girls. Twitter caught wind of the dispute, and the controversy quickly went viral all over the internet. Many loyal customers came to Dixon’s and her company’s defense, countering the negative reviews. Users who saw the controversy and were supporting Dixon also said they now planned on buying her products, and they did exactly that.
According to Buzzfeed, “after a barrage of negative and racist reviews were posted on Trustpilot, Dixon said her company’s sales were up 40% to 50% higher than what they would be on a typical day.” Thankfully, the backlash from the commercial going viral ended up being a great promotional tool for the company, and the true message of the commercial was conveyed to many who are inspired by Dixon’s story. Dixon told CNN “she [also] hopes the attention will highlight the fact that only a tiny percentage of venture capital funding goes to businesses run by black women.” Help support the business by leaving a positive review, and shop The Honey Pot’s products now!
Words by Libby Ayers
Review: Chloe Ready to Wear Fall Winter 2020
Chloe Ready To Wear Fall 2020 Collection Was Blessed By Beiges And Individuality.
The Chloé Fall Winter 2020 Ready to Wear was filled with beige, brown, navy, and olive. The collection showed perfect it-girl fall: flowy skirts and pants, outerwear, and knit pieces. Chloé Creative Director, Natacha Ramsay-Levi channeled contemporary femininity into the collection. Ramsay- Levi worked with painter Rita Ackermann, bringing looks from her work to the runway.
Golden totems and pearl white floors were blessed by the models with their hair neatly slicked back. The looks were chic and tidy, yet soft and romantic. Each look was coupled with a belt at the hip or waist, showing off a great silhouette. The makeup worked to show off the model’s features and the facial expressions were at a strong neutral. The design ranges from modern graphics to soft, cozy patterns meant for the changing moods in the upcoming autumn. The jewelry was simple yet individualized. It completed the looks, making it look much more approachable to the common eye. Pins were worn together like an everyday person would. The collections overall sense was to highlight individuality and the collection was the perfect representation of Natacha Ramsay-Levi.
Words by Katie Mok.
Look for BlackGirlSunscreen on Your Next Trip to Target!
BlackGirlSunscreen has now become the first black indie sun care brand to have full time placement in a major retailer, Target.
BlackGirlSunscreen was created in 2016 for the “need of melanin women to have a sunscreen brand that caters exclusively to them.” Many people falsely believe that people and women of color don’t need the extra protection from the sun that sunscreen provides, but there is still a major risk for burns, sun damage, and skin cancer for people of all skin types.
The creator, Shontay Lundy, wanted to be able to go into a major retail store and find a sunscreen product made specifically for her, as well as other black and brown women. After years of dedication and hard work, BlackGirlSunscreen has now become the first black indie sun care brand to have full time placement in a major retailer. You can pick it up at your local Target today! The formula is cruelty free, vegan, reef safe, and contains a high SPF of 30. It is also infused with natural ingredients such as avocado, jojoba, cacao, carrot juice, and sun flower oil that make it perfect for everyday use. BlackGirlSunscreen provides protection from the sun while simultaneously moisturizing, and doesn’t leave the aggravating white residue on the skin that is common with most sunscreens.
Shop today to not only protect and nourish your skin, but to also support a black-owned beauty brand!
Report: Libby Ayers
BCBGeneration Launches Makeup and Skin-Care Collection, Gen Beauty
BCBGeneration Has Launched it's First Makeup and Skin-Care Collection, Gen Beauty
BCBGeneration has just launched its first makeup and skincare collection, Gen Beauty. The brand was founded in 1989 by Max Azria, and over the years became a highly successful premiere American fashion brand called BCBGMAXAZRIA. In 2008 Azria created BCBGeneration, which made the brand more accessible and affordable for women of all generations.
After years of keeping up with the latest fashion trends, BCBG is now releasing their first ever makeup and skincare line, Gen Beauty. As of right now, there are 22 skincare products- ranging from collagen gel masks to coconut aloe facial mists, pore strips to cleansing brushes, and even day and night creams. The makeup selection features a series of highly pigmented eyeshadow palettes, mascaras, highlighters, lip glosses and balms, and much more.
BCBGeneration is known for their affordable prices, and stays loyal to this tradition with Gen Beauty. Everything in the collection is priced between $6 and $20. Ready to shop? All Gen Beauty products are available now at bcbgeneration.com
Words by Libby Ayers.
Boscia Introduces New Cherry Blossom Bakuchiol Resurfacing Lip Repair
Get the healthiest, plumpest lips of your life with Boscia lip repair treatment.
Boscia is a beauty and skincare brand that’s been committed to making plant-to-bottle products since 2002. It’s preservative free, and perfect for those who have sensitive skin as no harmful irritants or chemicals are used in any of their products. Boscia is introducing a new cherry blossom bakuchiol resurfacing lip repair ($20.00), which also contains lactic acid, chamomile flower oil, jojoba seed oil, and cocoa seed butter. The formula is also vegan, gluten-free, cruelty-free, and contains no artificial fragrances. Bakuchiol is a natural retinol, a vitamin A derivative that helps to resurface and improve texture overtime. That’s a lot of anti-aging power for only $20.00! The cherry blossom is also made up of antioxidants that help protect from environmental stressors and free radical damage. It’s advised to use the treatment twice daily, once in the morning and before bed. It can also be worn with lip color or alone, as it has a beautiful pink tint.
Shop Boscia Cherry Blossom Bakuchiol Resurfacing Lip Repair
Words by Libby Ayers.
Access Exclusive: Ama Osei
Influencer, Ama Osei, speaks with Access PR to discuss her take on the beauty industry.
Influencer, Ama Osei, speaks with Access PR to discuss her take on the beauty industry. During this time I was able to ask about her reasoning for choosing a path in the beauty community, advice she would give to others and her personal style. Read more from our chat below.
Can you explain your current role in the beauty industry?
“I am not genuinely sure if I actually have a “role” in the beauty industry... But, what I try my best to do, if applicable, I try to bring an item that’s black owned on set to support my brothers and sisters and share it amongst the team. Some people in the industry genuinely have never heard of certain dope designers, so I feel like it is my responsibility to share my opportunities with them even if they aren’t present on set. “
What made you want to choose this path?
“It was completely random. An associate of mine encouraged me to pursue it. She saw my potential and with that small seed she planted I prayed on it and God has made things beautiful in his time.”
What is your favorite thing about your current spot in your career?
“The glam! I am big on self care. Being on set, getting my makeup done, hair done, facial massage, taking photos ignites this fire in me and gives me that ultimate confirmation that this is where I am supposed to be.”
Can you tell me about your personal style?
“I would describe my personal style as sexy chic. No matter your age, I think it doesn’t hurt to be a little sexy and still maintain a sense of elegance.” #foreversexy
What have you learned throughout your growth in this industry?
“Being on set and interacting with people of all different backgrounds and visions teaches me how to adapt, how to communicate properly and learn how to improve my craft while picking up various skills from others while working. You can never know everything, and if you show people that you’re willing to learn, they will be even more willing to share.”
Do you ever feel pressure from social media? If, yes how do you overcome it?
“I used to feel pressure, but that was mainly because I was looking at everyone else and not focusing on what God wants from me. I overcame by not looking at the next person and focusing on God alone. He is the only one that will bring my helpers and put me in places with people I could only dream of by making it a reality.”
Where do you see yourself in five years?
“I see myself as a BIG brand, sharing my story and encouraging young black women to be still, you will make it. Continue to stand on God’s promise for your life. He is the only one that will see you through.”
What advice would you give someone who has an interest in this industry?
“The same thing I tell myself daily is to: stop looking at people and look at Jesus. Ask God to fulfill His purpose for you wanting to be in the beauty industry and to let your dream die so his can shine through you!”
Follow Ama on Instagram: @amaosei_
Interview by Access PR Editorial Intern, Khayla B.
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
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
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
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!
Beautle x Access Partnership
We're so pleased to announce our latest partnership with mobile beauty service Beautle!
We're so pleased to announce our latest partnership with mobile beauty service Beautle! For more details on the new partnership, check out our press release. Visit beautle.co for more information on the brand.
View the gallery below for more by Beautle.
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.