Is it me, or is the international climate starting to feel real Walking Dead-ish? Since the outbreak of the Coronavirus, the viral disease has made it quite clear that this pandemic ain't nothing to play with.
From celebrities scaling down their tours to the cancellations of major events across the globe, the COVID-19 virus has become an international threat and we pray that you've got your sanitizer on deck, sis. The number of confirmed cases of the virus has risen to more than 1,300 as states like D.C., Arizona, New York, and Kentucky have all declared a state of emergency but according to select booking sites, that can be news for travelers who are willing to take a risk.
Among those who won't let the virus keep them stationary is our favorite supermodel, Naomi Campbell, who confirmed in a recent Instagram post that she is not here for your germs. In the post, the 49-year-old icon is seen suited up from head-to-toe in a totally chic full-body protection suit and matching mask and issa mood all damn cold season.
Although the president issued a travel ban that will prevent U.S. citizens from traveling to a number of European countries, with the right precautions in place, officials say that you are still relatively safe to move about the country and a number of people are taking advantage of these somewhat scary circumstances.
Due to widespread cancellations and the level of fear that is currently associated with flying, trips on websites like Google Flights and Hopper are significantly cheaper, making this the perfect time to book your next domestic staycation.
While safety comes first, always, no risk-taking travelista would want to miss out on these amazing flight deals. Here are the details on some quick trips you can snag before the hysteria dies down and airline prices jump back up:
Miami - New Orleans ($38)
Charlotte - Las Vegas ($54)
Atlanta - San Juan ($86)
Houston - Chicago ($72)
New Orleans - Denver ($50)
Featured image by Instagram/@naomicampbell.
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The essence of effortless poise and refinement shines bright through the iconic university colors of indigo blue, red, and white. Every October, Howard University students, alumni, staff, and friends gather on the prestigious campus in Washington, D.C. to take part in time-honored traditions and events, which is Homecoming. This year's theme, “The Meccaverse,” was a week-long celebration of Howard University’s heritage, including the Homecoming football game and Bison Pep Rally, the Fashion Show, Greek Life Step Show, Homecoming Day of Service, Lavender Reception, and the iconic Yard Fest Concert.
As 2024 marked the 100th anniversary of the Howard Bison trek back to The Mecca and after two years of virtual events due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this was to be a celebration of a lifetime. We enlisted HU alumnus Sharmaine Harris, a luxury retail buyer, as she revisited her alma mater as eyes on the yard for fashion-forward outfits mixed with personal style and campus pride for the weeklong celebration.
Before we get to the looks, discover how attending Howard University impacted her career in fashion and her day-to-day style:
Credit: Sharmaine and Friends
xoNecole: Describe your personal style. Did attending Howard have any impact on developing it?
Sharmaine: Howard taught me that there’s no such thing as being TOO dressed. There’s always a reason to “put it on” and look presentable, even if it’s just for a day of classes. Standing out was celebrated and encouraged with my peers embracing the opportunity, giving me the confidence to try new styles and trends.
xoNecole: How did Howard shape your career as a luxury buyer?
Sharmaine: I studied Fashion Merchandising, through which I was fortunate to have professors who were very connected to the industry and able to give first-hand accounts of opportunities and what to expect post-college. I was also able to build a network through my peers and other Howard Alum, which has opened doors to endless possibilities both within fashion as well as daily life.
The same confidence instilled in me through my style has also been rooted deeply within me as I step into any role or project I’m faced with throughout my career.
xoNecole: This year marked Howard’s 100th-anniversary Homecoming celebration. Can you describe what the weekend looked and felt like?
Sharmaine: I’ve gone to many Howard Homecomings since graduating, but this year’s 100th anniversary felt like a huge family reunion filled with nothing but love. It was beautiful to see so many Bison return home looking great and radiating joy. It was beautiful!
xoNecole: What makes Howard fashion different from other HBCUs?
Sharmaine: Being that Howard is The Mecca, we have such a diverse population with each individual having their own spin on fashion. Getting dressed is second nature for us, but the layered confidence is our secret ingredient to make any look come together. Through that comfortability to push barriers, we have a legacy of setting trends, as indicated by the many alumni we have in the fashion and entertainment industry.
Keep scrolling for the top street style moments from The Mecca's Homecoming weekend:
Credit: Lacey Gallagher
Credit: Alan Henderson
Credit: JaLynn Davis
Credit: Dylan Davis
Credit: Caleb Smith
Credit: Kendall W.
Credit: Jordyn Finney
Credit: Vanessa Nneoma
Credit: Dr. Mariah Sankey-Thomas
Credit: Caleb MacBruce
Credit: Tiffany Battle
Credit: Teniola
Credit: Ilahi Creary
Credit: Nicolas Ryan Grant
Credit: Dylan Davis
Join us in celebrating HBCU excellence! Check out our Best In Class hub for inspiring stories, empowering resources, and everything you need to embrace the HBCU experience.
Featured image courtesy of Sharmaine Harris
