Eyes On Folake Huntoon

Rihanna as The Face of Balmain’s Spring 2014 Campaign

There seems to be a recent trend of top designers choosing global singers and icons rather than supermodels to feature in their ad campaigns. Balmain’s creative director Olivier Rousteing’s choice of Rihanna to front the brand is no exception. 

Rihanna channels Balmain’s edgy character and brings personality to the clothes and styles Balmain is well known for. This is an incredibly competent choice on Rousteing’s part given Rihanna’s current position as an icon in both the music and fashion industries.

the short.

Bubbledogs

Bubbledogs is a small ‘joint’ on Charlotte Street near Goodge Street station in London. Known for their juxtaposing menu of hotdogs and Champagne, bubbledogs is quite popular especially on a Friday night. Inspired by the New York hot dog, Bubbledogs add a long (and I mean long)list of different bottles of champaigne from all over the world to add a more sophisticated touch. Although it’s probably blasphemy to say this, I think my favourite dish on the menu would have probably been the sweet potato fries, obviously chased with a nice glass of champers. Definitely one to consider if you want a laid back time but wanna splash a little bit extra for some very good champagne. 

the tall. 

Beyoncé

Beyonce’s 5-part video commentary on her-self titled visual album “Beyoncé”. Watching these videos helped me understand where she was coming from when she was compiling her album. It may be odd to say, but I am so happy to know how free she was when making these songs and videos. I also respect her so much more after understanding the context and inspiration behind the album. 

But then again it’s Beyonce, I wouldn’t couldn’t expect less.

Part 2.

Part 3. 

Part 4. 

Part 5. 

the tall. 

Lisa Maree Swimwear

In preparation for Spring Break and in a bid to escape the below freezing temperatures, I’ve been trolling the internet for the perfect new swimwear brand. I came across Lisa Maree’s line on Net-a-Porter, started by former Australian model Lisa Maree Boersma. Her use of lined crotched knits gives a more interesting alternative to other standard forms of beachwear.

I fully recommend this line and have recently invested in a bikini of my own (The Shining Light crocheted cotton-blend in grey). Here’s hoping for a warm spell!

the short.

Going knits on Asos

Ok, so bad pun, BUT as the winter chill spreads, I’ve been cruising through my beloved online shop  in an attempt to find the perfect chunky knit came across some interesting finds. Honestly guys, check it out.

My favourites have to be The Thick Pattern Jumper by Ralph Lauren and the Red Chunky Jumper . But for a little more fun, check out the Ashish Mohair Jumper which I’ve even spotted somewhere in the depths of tumblr…

the tall. 

i-D Magazine’s “A-Z of Wink!”

A few weeks ago, i-D magazine released a short film boasting the likes of Miranda Kerr, Jourdan Dunn, Georgia May Jagger, and Cara Delevigne, among others, winking in turns from A-Z to their own individual captions. The film was designed to commemorate the launch of the company’s new digital platform.

The notorious Chanel ‘bikini’ which first emerged in the 80s was sported by Miranda Kerr along with many other fashion forward items minus Cara’s hoodie. The film is incredibly playful and visual, I couldn’t think of a better way for i-D to successfully market their brand, especially going into the New Year.

the short.

The Perfect Winter Warmer

Recently going through my instagram I’ve noticed a few bloggers I follow have been flaunting their Acne Velocite shearling jackets. I first noticed the jacket in the beginning of 2013, however only considered getting one later that September. Unfortunately, at £1,900 a pop, my wallet would rather die a thousand unfashionably deaths.

The details on the item, a heavy jacket with thick leather belts and buckles, are perfect. The UK store currently sells them in black, brown, red and grey. Hopefully one day I’ll get my hands on a gorgeous black Velocite…

the tall. 

Mastro’s Steakhouse Chicago

Mastro’s has the perfect location downtown on Dearborn Street in the heart of the restaurant district near other well-known restaurants like RPM and Brazzaz. Despite having to call weeks in advance to even get a table, the pricing is fairly reasonable around $70 including tip.

The food is perfect for sharing. The four of us shared appetizers, steaks, sides and dessert. Even though the portions were pretty huge, the quality was incredibly high. My must-try items on the menu are the Bone-in Kansas City Strip steak, the Scalloped Potatoes, the Alaskan King Crab Black Truffle Gnocchi, and of course the signature Butter Cake!

If you’re ever downtown, with friends, family or even on a date, this place is perfect for all occasions. Just be prepared for the food coma!

the short.