Interview | Franco Noriega

Franco Noriega is not just a pretty face. Born and raised in Lima, Peru, Franco moved to NYC to make things happen. He was discovered by famed photographer Mario Testino, appeared in ad campaigns for major international luxury brands, he was the youngest Creative Director at Macy's for the millennial division, and is a professional chef and restaurant owner at BABY BRASA to name a few. Most recently he has taken part in Jean Paul Gauthier's new fragrance launch for La Belle & Le Beau in Marrakesh. Franco took a moment to answer some questions about his experience and what he's working on next.

1. What was the most memorable experience of being part of the La Belle & Le Beau ad campaign?

The fact that Jean Paul Gaultier would choose you as a brand representative is memorable in it of itself, however, I would have to say that being part of the creative concept of the campaign, the romanticism of tying it to the creation of man and woman, all in the beautiful background of Marrakesh was absolutely wonderful.  

2. What makes this ad campaign different from others you taken part of?

What made this campaign different for me was that I was able to showcase my abilities in other aspects of my life. A lot of people think that I am just a model and that I am superficial. What people do not know is that I am also a fitness professional and a chef. During this campaign I was able to demonstrate that in order to be successful in life, you must be prepared in all aspects of it, such as being healthy in every way. 

3. The ad campaign kicked off in Marrakesh, what places did you get to explore during your time there?

We had very little time alone in Marrakech. The city is so rich in amazing places, shops, markets. The local culture is so wonderful that I recommend it as a destination for everyone to visit. A real Arab dream.

4. What projects are you working on for 2020 that has you excited?

We have lots of plans! I'm about to open my second restaurant in NY at the end of November. And next year we want to open one in Brazil. Seeing my gastronomic project expand has me more excited than ever. I am also working on a new book that will explore gastronomy from an unusual angle. I am sure that more projects are coming, so I only have to continue to be prepared with my team to take on all the new challenges that come ahead.

Grooming Essentials via Bespoke

When I was a poor college student I used to place my toiletries in a plastic grocery bag and pray nothing opened while in transit and ruined my clothes. Those days are behind me now that I invested in a Dopp kit. This month's Bespoke Box brought a Blue Claw Co. dopp kit filled with top notch grooming products. They include some familiar names and some that deserve your attention. You'll get to try out Mitch products Double Hitter 2-in-1 shampoo & conditioner and their construction paste. The Base Light Daily Refresh Bar Soap with peppermint will keep you clean and fresh along with the Maapilim face Cleanser and Marvis Classic Strong Mint toothpaste. The contents of this box will help you travel like an adult and look great day to day.

Razor not included

The Weekender- Bespoke Post

Guys, it's officially summer! This means, BBQs, rooftop parties, and (hopefully) some trips. In this month's Bespoke Post box, the coveted Line of Trade weekender bag arrived. The canvas body as it breaks in will have a beautiful patina and genuine leather trims will age nicely. The design was inspired by the bags stonemasons used to carry their tools. This bag has me all excited for the weekend trips in the near future. Can't wait for the adventures that await!

Line Of Trade- Weekender Bag #BoxOfAwesome

Bespoke Post: Viscata Espadrilles

Hola Amigos! This month's Bespoke Post box item hails from the land of Spain. Viscata Sitges Espadrilles are my first pair of espadrilles and I 'm excited to try them out. That's one of the great things about Bespoke Post, the access to special authentic items you would normally not know where to get.

The espadrilles are handcrafted by Spanish artisans and made with a light weight cotton canvas upper and 100% jute sole to make these another great footwear option for the summer season. Espadrilles have been around for hundreds of years and a staple in the Mediterranean. Let's show them how it's done in this side of the pond.

 

How to Wear Men's Espadrilles Tips:

Where to wear them: Poolside, ocean side, farmer's market, anywhere chill
What to wear them with: shorts, swim trunks, khakis, rolled up jeans
When to wear them: as soon as it gets warm
Why wear them: Their classic, to replace the old flip flops, you're an adult