 Editor: Christopher George Photographer Angus Malcolm striking images of the Warwick Rowers baring all celebrating 10 years of their best-selling charity calendar and luxurious, ultra-high end coffee table book in these tasteful artistic nude portraits. The legendary annual photo shoot to produce the calendar & book takes the bronzed rowing team to exotic shoot locations all over world as they celebrate the naked athletic form.
This year's calendar has been recognized with significant number of awards, innovation and social impact, not to mention being twice voted as UK's "Charity Calendar of the Year." Producer and iconic photographer Angus Malcolm along with generations of Warwick Rowers began the initiative in England in 2009 with the goal to highlight the role that straight men - and particularly the men usually classified as "jocks" - can play in promoting a fairer, more inclusive world. Sales of Warwick Rowers' famous calendar products have funded the establishment of Sport Allies, a highly regarded charity that promotes gender equality and inclusion. The calendar project has contributed earned nearly $200,000 for the Sports Allies charity. If the guys can have Kate Upton and Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issues, then the ladies are due for their own tantalizing eye candy with the Warwick Rowers. 
0 Comments
 French electro music pioneer Vitalic launches a new project with Rebeka Warrior, in what will become a classic European video and single. A visual delight, Continental Excellence, Electro Perfection... Vitalic meets Rebeka Warrior for a new collaboration called Kompromat. German vocals on top of Vitalic's trademark production and synth, inspired by old-school Berlin techno, somewhere between Einstürzende Neubauten and Crash Course in Science.  A vegan cookbook with bite!
By Sara Darling There might be sceptics out there who think that vegans (poor things) just eat beans and rice, but the only type of vegetable that those uneducated folk eat is probably a fried potato chip! Vegans (and vegetarians) just have to be a little experimental in the kitchen, and having been a veggie lover for decades, I was quite looking forward to expanding my culinary prowess in the kitchen. So donning my favourite pinny, I got stuck in to the Hungry Soul cookbook by Jacques Brennan over the Christmas holidays. So while everyone else in my vicinity (I was in Wales after all), was tucking into sausage rolls and cheese on sticks, I was embracing avocados, and spicy salsa. I’ve never been much of a Jamie- and the idea of flesh in my fridge repulses me, but I was keen to find out what I could conjure up beyond cauliflower cheese, and Quorn chilli. Hungry Soul is a book for beginners. Each page has drawings and very simple recipes- which to be honest was perfect for me. I don’t like waiting when I’m hungry, and I like to taste as I go.. So it might appear veganism is good for those Kitchen Nazis like myself!!! Split into sections- including soups, salads, stir fries, sweets and sides (and other things which don’t begin with S!) I could easily get tempted with the likes of colcannon, pea and potato masala and satay noodles- and that’s with the ingredients I already have at home. If I did feel like slipping off the vegan- wagon for a while, a lot of the recipes can be adapted to use animal based products, and who knows whether they would taste better with cheese? There’s enough recipes to get you through the rest of Veganuary and beyond, so there is no time better to jump on the plant based bandwagon. Now who wants to come round mine for some cauliflower chowder? Hungry Soul- how to cook 100% Vegan by Jacques Brennan is out now on Troubador. Buy yours here with 15% Veganuary discount.  AMERICANA COMES TO LONDON by Sara Darling When I got to spend the day with The Luck, I had no idea that siblings could get on so well! But Max and Esmay Luck are so in tune with each other, that they have even formed a band. Growing up in London, early influences were Fleetwood Mac, Simon & Garfunkel, and The Cranberries, which were the soundtrack to their youth, and although both musical, they didn't join forces as a band until 2011. Since then, they have been honing a unique blend of Americana, which is a mixture of country, bluegrass, R&B and blues, which they blend it into a folky soulful (often acoustic) set.  Spending time in LA has enabled the band to hone their act, and now the Americana-folk songs are coming to a radio station near you! They even released a single every week in December! You can see them live at various locations around the UK in the spring, and London's celebration of all things Americana -AmericanaFest, which takes place on 29-31 Jan. Early bird tickets are £22, available here Check out more and listen to the toe-tappingly good tunes on their website here  CREDITS Photographer: Benjamin Ealovega Stylist: Sara Darling Talent: The Luck Duo Shot 1 Max Jeans: Model's Own Shirt: Stylist's Own Waistcoat: Child of the Jago Boots: Base London Esmay Dress: Ba&sh Hat: Locke and Co Necklace and rings: Katherine Alexandra Brunacci Boots: Free People Shot 2 Esmay Dress: Scotch & Soda Jacket: Vintage Necklace: Katherine Alexandra Brunacci Boots: Model's own Max Shirt: Remus Uomo Jeans and boots: Model's own Shirt & scarf: Vintage Shot 3 Max Shirt: Weekday Jeans and boots: Model's Own Scarf: Katherine Story Esmay Dress: Phannatiq Scarf: Child of the Jago Hat: Minnatonka Ring: Nanette Lapore Boots: Model's Own  Editor: Christopher George Philip Colbert’s boisterous multidisciplinary art projects have won the support of the likes of Karl Lagerfeld and Lady Gaga as well as exhibitions worldwide at Art Basel, Frieze London, Tate Modern and Wavelengths, China. Now he announces the latest move in his pop universe: his second solo show of his large-scale paintings at Saatchi Gallery, all narrated through his lobster alter-ego. Previously described by American Vogue’s Andre Leon Talley as “the godson of Andy Warhol”, Colbert presents eight large-scale canvases at a packed Saatchi Gallery where we attended along with hundreds of people queuing around the block for the opening event.
Conceived as a dialogue between himself and his pop forefathers, the paintings ruminate on their contributions in the face of popular culture and his own autobiographical journey within this landscape. Paul Forster of the Saatchi Gallery has said, “Philip Colbert’s works are energetic and vibrant examples of contemporary art that illustrate the saturation of art history and pop culture in society.” Colbert’s punk-pop journey via his studio collective, the Rodnik Band allowed him to gracefully circumvent the fashion and design universe, while art functioned as his true objective. From his east London studio, he has conjured-up limited edition Duchamp-inspired urinal dresses and wearable art frocks. Sequinned tins of Campbell’s Soup attire and bejewelled fried eggs were sold in Dover Street Market and Collette in Paris and worn by Sienna Miller, Cara Delevingne, Anna Della Russo, Lady Gaga and more. Philip Colbert 
 MMmmm, pie and mash Review by Sara Darling What could be more seductive than a hot, oozy pie with mash and gravy on a winter’s day? And if it's stuffed with all manner of veggie goodies, that’s all the better right? Trying to eat healthy, doesn’t mean you can’t tuck in to a hearty pie now and again, especially if you have a large side of peas and onion gravy- all part of your five a day.  I was lucky enough to have a choice of three vegan pies from my lovely friends at Pieminister, and although I wanted to try them all, settled for sharing two with my boyfriend. Tucking into a ‘Kevin’ and ‘Chooks Away’, the whole experience was rather delightful! ‘Chooks Away’ is a the Pieminister version of a chicken bake; Stuffed to bursting with faux chicken pieces, smothered with a creamy celeriac, smoked garlic and sherry sauce, which is designed to melt in the mouth. Matched with buttery mash and dollops of gravy, this was a taste of paradise.  Conversely, the ‘Kevin’ pie was a veggie kaleidoscope, with chestnut mushrooms, baby pickled onions, red wine and thyme for an intriguing pop of flavours wrestling for attention in every bite. My boyf, who is a confirmed carnivore declared them ‘unexpectedly tasty’. I, on the other hand already knew they would be good!!!
Can’t wait to get my chops around Heidi next.. Goats cheese, sweet potato and spinach- who needs meat anyway? Buy online at Pieminister or check out Sainsbury’s or Waitrose.  Review: Christopher George With the season for spoiling people, or even just spoiling yourself, 55 are on the look out for those perfect gifts or treat with some added credibility. Illustration artist Jas Bhachu has released limited editions from her unique designs, perfect for special pressies of just beautiful items to self indulge your home with. Based on original artworks of hand drawn illustrations, painting and mark making, these works will suite any sophisticated space without dominating it. The collection is inspired by Friends of the Earth campaigns addressing imperative issues: save the bees, stop fracking, plastic, the environment and beat climate change, with 20% of all sales going to friendsoftheearth.uk. Isn't it good to shop responsibly while supporting important charities and social movements! And just think how popular you will be with those your buying socially responsible gift for. WIN WIN on the good guy point. Check out how good it is by supporting Friends of the Earth and collecting great art work all at the same. Well thats 55s tip for you progressive climate considerate shoppers! THREE50 Limited Edition Prints by Jas Bhachu. 50cm x 50cm for £50. For more info go to my website: ww.jasbhachu.com or shop at www.etsy.com/uk/shop/JasBhachuStore
 THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO GETTING THE GIFT YOU WANT (FOR FRIENDS AND FAM OBVS...) By Sara Darling If you’re pushed for time, need some inspiration for Christmas shopping, or need some gift ideas for yours truly, Carnaby Street is a one stop shop for the festive season. Packed with fashion stores, quirky arcades and lots of coffee shops to fuel up, it’s a great place to get to it all in one fell swoop. So sit back and enjoy the 55 definitive guide to Christmas gifts… Everyone loves denim, right? So why not snap up pair of authentic 501s for your dad from the Levi's store. Just enough classic style and width so he won’t feel like he’s trying too hard. Bingo! Or perhaps he would prefer something a little more traditional. And what is more appropriate than Paul Smith for classic styles. If he’s a sock lover (who isn’t??) snap up some socks from Happy Socks, or some French inspired smalls from APC. Now about that lift on NYE….. Mum’s love perfume. Fact. So do I! Although I am not strictly a mother. But I am a girlfriend and an aunty.. Hint hint!! And Carnaby Street Boots has lots of lovely scents to tempt you with. It is also the home of enough make up stores to keep any make up junkie happy for a week! Check out the cult beauty store Too-Faced for fashion shades, Urban Decay for sophisticated European options, and Mac which has two floors of tempting products which pride themselves on offering something for every skin tone. Pesky big brothers keep their cool in Fred Perry- after all no man can have too many FP polo shirts! Double check whether that’s their thing, as Ben Sherman have an impressive collection too! And funky little brothers will love anything from the uber cool Drop Dead, which was founded in 2005 by Oli Sykes. Creating limited edition menswear, womenswear and lifestyle products inspired by his evolving taste in music and art. Too dope for me, but the youngsters go mad for it! Boys can get pampered too, and if you want to spoil your bo, why not give him a voucher from Johnny’s Chop Shop. Get a wet shave or a new do, and both or you will benefit. If you would prefer a gift, Muhle is THE place for shaving paraphernalia. Help him embrace his inner James Bond. Or check out the unique fragrance, beauty, leather goods and eyewear options at the Lexington Street flagship store of Byredo. It looks a teeny bit intimidating on the outside, but don’t be put off. Go in and smell the perfume! My fave is the Gypsy Water. Watches are another winner for boys (apparently they love their toys) so pick up something bling from Daniel Wellington. Big in Sweden, if that impresses you!  Sisters (in my experience) generally like anything that you do (or at least own!!!!) So the perfect gift for them is something that you would like to treat yourself too. And let’s just hope she works with that mentality! I always find something in the iconic Liberties. I’m personally name bombing the Alex Monroe baby bee necklace, Maria Black Girl ring or classic Liberty print PJs.. but if your budget doesn’t stretch that far, SkinnyDip do the best, and really affordable cool girl, lifestyle necessities, from books to bumbags to phone cases. I could officially move in! You won’t even have to stray far to get something from Grandma and Pa. Thoughtful gifts for those who’ve been around a long time, can be a bit of a mission; But if you’re hitting a brick wall, get your booty to New Frames and get a photograph of you all in frame. Simple things will make them smile! Talking of frames, you could even get a voucher for some new specs at Cubitts. With a huge range of glasses, you can promise them an afternoon with you whilst you help them choose after Chrissie too! Awwww. So all that’s left is to choose something for yours truly! I’ll be loitering in Scotch and Soda, Rag & Bone and The Kooples and drooling over a new pair of Ray-Bans and a skull ring ring from The Great Frog. Can I make that any clearer folks?!!? I mean Santa? I have been a very good girl this year after all!
 Head to Café Forty One at La Suite West for a hearty vegan Christmas By Sara Darling No turkeys were mentioned in this article. What springs to mind when you think of Christmas lunch? If it's mountains of roast potatoes, parsnips, glazed carrots, peppery stuffing, oodles of gravy and the obligatory Brussel sprout, then you obviously embrace the Festive spirit. And if you are vegetarian, Christmas still can be fun! Head to Café Forty One at La Suite West, where head chef, Clarisse Flon has worked her magic on a completely plant based Christmas menu, filled with healthy, hearty Christmas treats. With over 7% (3.5 million people) of the UK being vegan, the demand for tasty alternatives to traditional fare is on the rise, and Café Forty One is one of the few places where you can enjoy a full vegan menu.  This December, guests can tuck into sociable pop-up dinner events with live jazz and festive tasters; Or go the whole three yards and enjoy a three course Christmas lunch consisting of nut wellington, truffled polenta, Bramley apple, miso, spinach and vegan cheese tarts, ‘faux’ gras on brioche, salted caramel and pear fondant and chestnut, caramel and apple yule log. Sound too good to be true? These tasters also knock socks off the calories of traditional faves.  But if you do have a sweet tooth, the all vegan afternoon tea is an essential pre Christmas treat. From 12-5pm every day, you can tuck into macarons, Christmas cake, Bûche de Noël, a range of sandwiches and tea. Available until December 24th, this is the perfect end to a hard afternoon’s shopping.  Why not push the boat out and try something different. You don’t have to be vegan to enjoy non meat based products. The more people who explore the trend means the more inventive chefs will get, and the happier, and healthier we all will be! Based near Notting Hill, and Hyde Park, the leafy suburb of Bayswater is the perfect place to take some time for yourself, and chill out before the Christmas madness begins.
Check out Cafe Forty One for bookings PEEKABOO VINTAGE By Sara Darling What is style? The eternal conundrum that fashion magazines have been dissecting for years. Yet, there is no definitive answer- it simply boils down to personal preference. With the internet spawning a new generation of tastemakers, anyone can be a “face” these days. Long gone are the supermodels of the nineties, where Naomi, Christy, Cindy, Elle et al, offered aspirational faces, bodies and lifestyles to inspire the public. Now the rise of Instagram influencers, means anyone with an accumulated number of followers can profess their individual taste. Thanks to social media anyone can be a model. Size, shape, nationality and gender alignment have opened up a new world for fashion demographics, and how and what we wear is not dictated by what we see only on the catwalks. So it’s no wonder that the buying public are governing what is cool and demanding diversity in their choices. Peekaboo Vintage in London’s flagship Topshop emporium, has always been aware of keeping up with trends, but also aware of disposable shopping. Topshop approached Peekaboo founder, Emily Bothwell, when her stall was on Portobello Market. They wanted to offer their clients something completely different and sustainable within their flagship store, thus providing an alternative outlet for shoppers who want something different to everyone else, but can still buy fashion with a conscience. The pieces Emily sources are unique, exceptionally hard to find but in the best condition, and even though they might be old, they are as good as new.  By encouraging fashionistas to check out a carefully curated vintage originals, Peekaboo founder Emily Bothwell wants to highlight the consumers awareness on the impact of disposable shopping, with a mission is to bring back vintage as an ethical shopping choice. Her celebrity clients include Pearl Lowe, Fearne Cotton and Billie Piper, who are pioneers of her hot picks- regularly wearing them in TV and magazine shoots, and are backing the recycling trend. Having founded her brand on a stall in Portobello Road 1991, it has come on in leaps and bounds. With the Topshop concession opening in 2000 and ASOS Market Place in 2001, Emily has spent almost 22 years creating the most unique and wide range of suppliers and sources, where she chooses her pieces individually and because of their amazing quality and this enables her to pass on a weekly fashion fix to generations of fashionistas.  Nodding at trends, Emily has her finger on the pulse of catwalk collections, and is quick to pick out highlights of the season; But it is her vision to track down the original article, instead of snapping up an ultra expensive designer piece, that will be dated in six months. It seems like a simple choice. Why buy into a copy, when you purchase the real deal? Help save the planet and buy beautiful preloved pieces that will be uniquely yours. If you have visions of parading around in a Stevie Nicks style PVC mini skirt, Cher’s crochet waistcoat or a Blondiesque suede bomber jacket, Peekaboo Vintage is the perfect place to realise your vintage alter ego. And there is nothing more rewarding than tracking down your unique piece of history, knowing that it will be instantly iconic.  Thankfully, today’s shoppers are more savvy in understanding the mechanics behind factory workers, and buying fashion doesn't have to rely on buying from overworked or exploited staff. Using brains to be on trend is an attractive prospect, and buying vintage is a good place to start.
Shop the website here |
55platformsIf you have any features you would like to submit to 55factory, contact us with your idea. We are a collective team, so welcome any contributors who have a creative or cultural passion. Mailing ListWhy not subscribe to our mailing list below for some occasional updates from 55factory. 
|
RSS Feed