Dope Ambition

via Vogue Paris

via touchpuppet

Here is an instance where black and white photography is not only appropriate, but almost necessary. It’s also interesting how makeup makes such a difference in these type of shots; notice that the first model’s dark lips really pop. A nude lip would obviously not have the same effect. Ahhh…I love how some of these pictures seem to have been taken while the models were simply passing by, while others are seemingly candid moments. Enjoy all these photos. 

via lovemore

I dig the shoe brand, and I actually dig this fall collection. A preview of their 2009 fall/winter collection includes some familiar classics including the Whitman, Kennedy, Rollins, Romare Lo/Hi, Thompson and Russell. My favorites are the blue ones; refined, cool, and classic Rollins. 

images via hypebeast

So as you all may or may not know, I went to Chicago for a debauchery-filled and spending-spree four days. I was driven around in STYLE, (a black Range Rover with Tv’s etc) to all the happening streetwear stores in Chicago. These included Succezz, Self Conscious, NEW store AKIN, Leaders aka LDRS, and the Nike Store. ALL were unique and dope in their own ways. I would give a shoutout to Succezz for having such a DOPE shoe collection; my man scooped two pairs and a T there alone. On another note, Sprite is trying to reach a trendier and more urban crowd. How, you ask? EACH of these stores has a mini-fridge with Sprite Green. The drink is their latest low-cal drink, and as one of the dudes at LDRS pointed out, “it goes great with vodka.” 

So after an entire Saturday of streetwear stores, I realized I need to MOVE to Chicago and get my life together. Here are some pics, although I wish I had more. Also, the reason I have more pics of some stores and less of others is because some of the stores didn’t dig me taking pics.

1st: Succezz

2nd: Leaders aka LDRS

3rd: Self-Conscious

4th: AKIN (this is just the outside. Check the Nike sponsered icre-cream truck giving out free ice-cream)

We have seen Rihanna in everything from pasties to sheer shirts, but this look is undoubtedly one of my favorites. She maintains her hard-earned edginess, but looks flawlessly classic in a pile of pearls and lacy elbow-length gloves at some London premiere. Her makeup artist deserves a standing ovation for this STUNNING look. Rihanna, baby, all you gotta do is stand there and look pretty.

images via highsnobette