En Noir F/W 2014

Brooklyn Bound

It’s official!  I recently made the move to Williamsburg and I couldn’t be happier with my decision. Birthplace to Jay-Z, the Twizzler, and the first roller coaster, I look forward to discovering what this city rich in history and cool culture as to offer a boy like me.  So far, I’ve walked over the famous Brooklyn Bridge from Brooklyn to Manhattan, purchased by first pair of denim from Brooklyn Denim Company, which I might add is completely made here in the US, and tried the best chili dog’s I’ve ever tasted at famous Crif’s on N 7 St.  Does that consider me a brooklynite?  Anywho, I look forward to learning about new designers, brands and boutiques and sharing it with you all.

Speaking of sharing, I do want to let you in on a cool new #fashion4good brand.  The t-shirt I’m wearing was created by TransElated which was given for me to wear for this particular feature.  TransElated is more than just a brand, they are a social movement towards global unity, tolerance and acceptance. Using fashion, art and philanthropy as platforms for their mission, they design pieces that celebrate the world and its people, societies and languages.  From their Washington DC base, they spread these messages of love and acceptance through their exclusive fashion line and philanthropic efforts.

Translated is giving back by making yearly donations to an array of causes that support the well being and education of children, our future leaders.  Additionally, they have teamed up with Kollegebound Learning to provide tutoring and mentoring to kids living in homeless shelters in the United States and developing countries.  To learn how you can purchase the t-shirt I’m wearing or support their cause, click here.

Last but not least, a couple weeks ago, I attended a cool menswear event at Salvatore Ferragamo’s flagship location on 5th Avenue.  It was in collaboration with Details magazine for a curated list of holiday gift ideas. More interested in checking out the clothing rather than socializing, I fell in love with a beautifully designed pull-over sweater and calf-skin high-tops.  Unfortunately, $2200 was a bit over my budget. I did however splurge and get the high-tops.  I haven’t been able to take them off since.  They are probably the most comfortable designer sneakers I currently own.  If you love them like I do, splurge-worthy here.

Hat: Hurley, Sunglasses: Eyebobs, Scarf: Parcel & Journey, Jacket: GANT Rugger, T-Shirt: Trans Elated, Sweater: Boston Traders, Pants: Banana Republic, High-tops: Salvatore Ferragamo

Holy Grail

Inspiration is everywhere and I recently found it Brooklyn.  Home to famous faces like Jay-Z, Mos Def and Eddie Murphy, this city is full of creative energy.  Having played the backdrop for my latest shoot, I couldn’t help but become completely mesmerized by several blocks of murals tagged by famous graffiti artists in Bushwick.  Brought to my attention by my photographer friend Vincent, he opened my eyes to a whole new world I never knew even existed.  To learn more about this secret gem, click here!

Jacket: Vintage, Shirt: SLVR by Adidas, Denim: Guess, Sweater: General Idea, Sneakers: Kenneth Cole, Tote: 3.1 Phillip Lim, Sunglasses: Andrew Marc, Watch: Valentino