There’s a quiet certainty to Charles Babalola. Not the kind that demands attention, but the kind that earns it. His is a talent bound by discipline, conviction and the pursuit of excellence. Over the past decade, he has carved out a career built on intention rather than noise, choosing roles…

Louisa Bello’s debut novel Where the Shadows End is a thought-provoking and moving exploration of memory, identity, guilt and belonging. A British Nigerian writer, teacher and humanitarian, Bello draws on her South London upbringing to tell the story of Sam; a man forced to confront the voices that have shaped his life.…

Champion is proud to announce that its iconic partnership with Major League Baseball (MLB) is returning for the Fall/Winter 2026 season. This collaboration celebrates a shared heritage and a deep-rooted connection to the world of sport, bringing the spirit of the diamond to the street through two distinct, men’s-only collections:…

At The Real, we are always drawn to individuals who not only excel in their profession but also use their success to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Dr Hadi Hassanzadeh is one such person. A triple-qualified clinician in medicine, surgery and dentistry, Dr Hadi has dedicated…

British actress Remmie Milner has captivated audiences with an impressive range of roles in shows such as BBC’s The Hour , HBO’s Whitechapel and Amazon’s Electric Dreams. In addition to her on screen success, her notable stage credits include Henry V and Contractions at the Trafalgar Theatre in London’s West End. You have most likely seen her play the…

To generations of boxing fans, Johnny Nelson MBE will always be remembered as the relentless cruiserweight champion who defied expectations and carved out one of the most enduring careers in British boxing. But away from the bright lights, Nelson’s story is just as much about personal growth and finding purpose…

It’s approaching the early evening on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. Onlookers are eagerly setting their gaze upon the iconic steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the repetitive sound of camera clicks are competing with the bustling noise of the city, and the world’s biggest A-listers are occupied…

The debut of Richard Gadd’s Half Man introduced audiences to an engrossing storyline and in its second episode showcases a rising British star in the form of actress Julie Cullen. Undertaking the complex role of Joanna, Cullen (who kickstarted her career in theatres before transitioning to television), caught up with…

Canadian actress Debs Howard is a stellar talent whose star is steadily rising. A multi-nominated performer, including a 2025 UBCP/ACTRA Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress, (Movie of the Week), a Leo Award nomination for Best Lead Performance in a Motion Picture and a FilmQuest nomination for Best Supporting Actress,…

We were so excited to catch up with Zena, the London based two piece consisting of keyboardist Yohan Kebede and bassist Menelik. Drawing on their Ethiopian roots, the duo mix traditional Ethiopian sounds with a range of genres, from R&B to neo-soul,creating a beautiful blend of music in the process.…

It’s a cloudy Saturday afternoon in London – but more importantly, on its third day, Fashion Week is in full swing. Seats are lining the Grand Hall of the De Vere Connaught Rooms – and it’s living up to the name – with an ornate ceiling and dramatic chandeliers lighting…

In the underbelly of Shoreditch, Protein Studios hosted some of animé’s most loyal fans on Saturday 21st February. Crowds of show-goers gathered and the anticipation for Jimmy Paul x Pokémon’s bubbled up at the door. Two cuddly plushies of Mew and Mew Two greeted guests at the entrance, pre-warming nostalgic 80s…

The stars were out at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles for the 68th annual Grammy Awards – a yearly celebration of music, culture, and of course fashion. The big winners of the evening included Kendrick Lamar, Billie Eilish and Bad Bunny, whilst there were impressive performances from Sabrina Carpenter…

Imposter syndrome, wetsuits and killer runs – The Real Magazine sits down with Naomi Yang to discuss her latest role in hit series Under Salt Marsh. A grizzly new thriller is set to hit British screens with the Sky Original series Under Salt Marsh. Set amid a rural Welsh town,…

The fashion industry has lost another legend, as Valentino Garavani, a true visionary of elegance and luxury, passed away in Rome on Monday evening, aged 93. He was one of the last remaining great legacy designers who redefined the meaning of fashion throughout the backend of the 20th century, as…

Question: Is it really embarrassing to have a boyfriend?   But what about the Boy-Girlfriend and the Girl-Boyfriend? According to Vogue, having a boyfriend is now embarrassing. Over the past few weeks since this revelation, users on platforms such as TikTok and Instagram have swarmed to support, challenge and argue…

The so-called “Oscars of Fashion” took place in New York on Monday night against the beautiful backdrop of the Museum of Natural History, and what a night it turned out to be. Sponsored by Amazon Fashion for the fourth year on the trot, the annual CFDA Awards is an event that truly celebrates the stars of…

Ronke Adékoluejo is shining the spotlight brightly on the distinction between recognition and dedication. A ‘Star of Tomorrow,’ she has just finished playing the role of Viola in the Globe’s Twelfth Night. Ronke is not just an actor, but an advocate; for characters, for herself and for the new generation…

In a world of over-saturation, creating an utterly unique and innovative brand is no easy feat but former stylist and costume designer Anna Osmekhina has achieved just that through founding TTSWTRS (Tattoo Sweaters) in the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv. A talented designer, she has since successfully steered the brand to…

Why the entertainment industry holds a unique key to climate action The Entertainment Industry and Climate Impact: A Powerful Paradox The entertainment industry, renowned for its creativity, glamour, and cultural influence, is also an inevitable contributor to climate change. From large-scale festivals and world tours, to film sets and broadcast…

Victoria Secret is back – and better than ever After a lacklustre return to the runway in 2024, the Angels are officially back in business – and possibly better than ever. The annual Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show was staged in New York last Wednesday night, only the second since their…

On the tennis court, athleticism and aesthetics collide. Between neon lights, net lines, and nostalgic hues, a new chapter in athletic elegance unfolds. This editorial showcases fashion beyond the court—with urban understatement, retro flair, and a touch of serving attitude. Top: Teveo Pullover: Puma Skirt: Adidas Socks and trainers: Nike…

On a September evening in East London, the warehouse walls of Shoreditch pulsed with beats and raw energy as the 2025 Red Bull BC One Cypher UK took centre stage. This wasn’t just another dance event, it was the UK’s fiercest breaking battleground, where the nation’s top B-Boys and B-Girls…

Filthy Fashion – The Dirtiest of Looks at The Barbican The ‘clean girl’ era is dying, and if this brand-new exhibition is any indicator, it is already six feet under. Dirty Looks: Desire and Decay in Fashion- curated by Karen Van Godtsenhoven and Jon Astbury – launched at The Barbican last week, and it’s safe to say there has been no…

Swimsuit and sunglasses: Mango/Zara Clothing: Zara Dress: Mango Clothing: Mango/Zara Team: Photographer: Yu Hao @yu_hao_studio Model: Guiomar Alfaro Pablos @guiomaralfaropablos Producer: Jinyu Wu @jinyu_alicia

It may have been 9am on the final morning of London Fashion Week, but spirits were running high in anticipation for the Hu Bing Selects show – and with good reason. In the heart of the West End, at the beautiful Freemasons Hall, Bing would celebrate his tenth year of involvement on the British fashion…

An Interview with LEM – the slow fashion brand with sustainability at its core.  As the excitement of London Fashion Week 2025 draws to a close, The Real Magazine sat down with fashion designer Pridon, the curator of LEM. What was the inspiration behind this year’s collection? When I was…

Timberland and Balamii celebrate the “Advice of an Icon” Campaign During London Fashion Week Last night during London Fashion Week, Timberland celebrated the global launch of the brand’s Fall/Winter 2025 campaign “A d vi ce of an I con” with a bold and immersive experience at Village Underground, Shoreditch. The event, with…

by Leah Tezila The London-based duo, George Oxby and Angus Cockram, showcased AGRO Studio’s latest collection at London Fashion Week for the first time on Sunday 21st September 2025. At the heart of Shoreditch in East London’s Protein Studios, crowds of enthusiasts flowed through the doors to watch the Prophet collection…

by Ella Mapes Silent Engraving stunned the runway – but the story behind the collection weaves a deeper meaning. London Fashion Week is always charged with undeniable, frantic energy. I expected a similar frenzy going backstage with Alisa Dudaj, who received a standing ovation in her 2024 New York Fashion Week collection, Alpine…

When you are greeted at the gates of the Tower of London by a model on horseback, you know that there is a spectacle waiting to commence – and a spectacle it was. On the evening of 17th September, Jeff Garner presented his final collection before the release of his…

From alien invasions to heartfelt drama, India Brown is proving that there’s nothing she can’t do, and showing us that the two may have more in common than you think. Best known for her standout role in Apple TV’s Invasion, Brown injects her craft with the depth and maturity of…

Video game enthusiasts will be pleased to know that the Red Bull BC One Cypher UK 2025 will take place in Shoreditch on Saturday 27th September, in collaboration with the iconic video game Street Fighter. What is it about? The country’s best B-Boys and B-girls will go head-to head for…

Giorgio Armani, one of the most powerful forces within fashion, has died at the age of 91. His eponymous brand released a statement confirming his passing – “indefatigable to the end, he worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, the collections, and the many ongoing and future projects.” Fellow designers, editors and the fashion industry…

At the intersection of beauty, business and bravery is Nikki Gal – a successful model turned mental health advocate and CEO of multiple trailblazing companies. After forming her identity in front of the camera, Gal now uses her keen eye for excellence and profound passion for originality to help brands…

In a sport known for its noise and bravado, Callum Simpson is quietly becoming one of British boxing’s most compelling rising stars. Hailing from Barnsley, South Yorkshire, the undefeated super middleweight is as grounded as they come— low key outside the ring but ferocious within it. With a growing list…

The Best Dressed at Cannes 2025 The fashion world stirred just days before the 78th annual Cannes Film Festival when the organisers announced a new dress code for the carpet – no long trains and no naked dressing. Given that Cannes is one of the most glamorous events on the…

The most famous faces in the world gathered last night at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York for the annual Met Gala – which is widely regarded as the crown jewel of the fashion calendar. This year, the spring show and Met Gala theme is titled Superfine: Tailoring…

In the five years since the murder of George Floyd sent shockwaves around the globe, questions around justice, accountability and racial progress remain as urgent as ever. Backlash: The Murder of George Floyd is a new documentary from Rogan Productions, Dartmouth Films and the BBC, that seeks to grapple with…

Tamara Lawrance’s work as an actor is steeped in introspection and intentionality. She’s built an impressive catalogue of profoundly affecting roles across both stage and screen, through projects such as the BBC series Time and the film The Silent Twins. Lawrance is brightly pensive, with an empathetic nature and a…

Barrus AW25 by Lucy Ashburner Barrus made their return to London Fashion Week with a striking show at Protein Studios in Shoreditch last Friday 21st February. A fan favourite during LFW, they impressed once again with a collection inspired by the ancient city of Ephesus – a once thriving metropolis…

Fashion Hong Kong POP PR A review by Lucy Ashburner London Fashion Week kicked off at Protein Studios in Shoreditch with a show hosted by Fashion Hong Kong. A carefully curated array of designers shared the runway, with each bringing their individual style and flair to assemble the perfect show.…

THE REAL was pleased to catch up with actor Jake Kenny Byrne recently to discuss his character Christopher in the exciting new series of G’Wed, his love for acting and his plans for the future. We have no doubt that a hugely successful career awaits Jake-read on to find out…

The Best Dressed at the 2025 Grammy Awards The 67th Annual Grammy Awards returned to Los Angeles’ Crypto.com arena on Sunday evening. Whilst of course an event to celebrate the music industry, there was a slew of fabulous fashion moments as celebrities graced the red carpet dressed in outfits from…

Onscreen, Jack Barton is Lieutenant John Tonkin; a fearless soldier sweeping coolly into Season Two of the smash hit period adventure SAS Rogue Heroes. Offscreen, Jack is the talented actor bringing him to life, talking excitedly about the honour of portraying a legendary war hero. Despite an impressive repertoire with…

At just 23, actor Louis Healy has a résumé most people his age can only dream of. With acting roles in hit series such as Ackley Bridge, Vera and the legendary Emmerdale, Healy is on his way to becoming a legend himself.  He is a talented, determined and ambitious actor…

It’s difficult to decide which accolade most efficiently introduces Susan Chardy. On the one hand, she’s the wickedly talented actress boasting a lead screen debut in A24’s newest gem, On Becoming A Guinea Fowl. On the other, she’s Global Fund for Children’s new Global Ambassador, continuing her devoted mission to…

By Rue Blenkinsop Release date: 22nd November, 2024 Unknown to us at the time, in 1987 music lovers received Kendrick Lamar and car lovers got the Buick GNX, surprise – just like this album! A car reimagined, beating the Ferrari in speed; the all black, fierce, powerhouse can be seen…

by Maisy Nichols What do gamechangers do after reinventing the game? Tackle the next one. PENG PENG spent years dominating gymnastics, and is now steering her unstoppable momentum to the music industry in the form of her Gold Over America Tour. THE REAL sat down with the outstanding talent after…

Lucy Heath is here to ‘pull back the curtain’ on the reality of working creatives, whether the curtain likes it or not. Tackling the modern television industry with laughter and a loveable authenticity, Heath is diving headfirst into the world of TV optioning and writer’s rooms, and taking us along…

The 2025 Grammy nominations are in, as the biggest names in music are set to compete for the biggest accolades in the industry next February. Leading the way is none other than Beyoncé with Cowboy Carter, racking up an impressive 11 nominations, including those in the three major categories –…

STRATHAM, NEW HAMPSHIRE, FALL 2024 Timberland’s latest release for Fall 2024 reimagines six of the brand’s most classic styles- including a limited run of the iconic 8-Inch super boot. Launching worldwide in November, the Timberland Leather Espresso Collection is crafted to perfection through a smooth blend of premium leather, gold…

by Charmaine McKoy I remember when I first heard part of Erykah Badu’s breakout single On and On. The lyrics ‘oh what a day, what a day…’ hit my ears whilst I was sifting through books on a shelf and I had to pause and sit in front of the…

Actors juggle faces for a living, but Lisa Dwan is a multi-faceted artist off screen, too. Writer, actress, director, academic and now star of the detective noir, Blackshore, Dwan is an undefinable testament to the love of the craft. THE REAL sat down with Lisa ahead of the first season…

Image credit: Pip Bourdillon Shazad Latif has the kind of elasticity that they teach in drama schools. Bouncing between epic, big-budget productions like Nautilus, released today on Amazon Prime, and intense, indie roles alongside powerhouses like Daisy Ridley, Latif is now bringing his ethereal range to a new twist on…

THE OSLO HACKNEY BY SEAN MCKOY Zkeletonz are building out a niche for themselves and the proudly independent trio from Warwickshire are emerging from a vibrant underground music scene. But there’s nothing underground about their sound. Their unique blend of electro, disco, indie pop feels otherworldly and has a charmingly…

S/S 2025 REVIEW by Sophie Bushnell GANNI While Paris may be uncharted territory to the Danish brand, Ganni sure does know how to make a statement. Being the first brand to show at Paris Fashion Week, and not being a Parisian brand, could be stressful but Ganni knows how to…

Most artists hope that their work will transcend the boundaries of material; few are prepared to mould light itself to ensure it. A dazzling new collaboration between Sequin Kay and Gerry Kinch sees the immortalisation of feminine icons achieved through sparkling, multidimensional portraits embellished with Swarovski crystals. Maisy Nichols, writing…

Francesca Hennessy is here to make an impact. At 19 years old, fresh from her win at Selhurst Park and gearing up for her next fight in October, she is a talented boxer at the beginning of a career that is destined for greatness. Hailing from a boxing family, Hennessy…

It’s officially September and you know what that means! Over the past few days models were running from casting to casting, PR managers were juggling last minute details, designers sewing day and night, and fashion lovers eagerly waited in front of a screen. London Fashion Week had arrived! It is…

Musician Mysie is an exciting talent who has achieved considerable success over the last few years. Hailing from South London, in 2019 she began releasing music on Soundcloud followed by her debut EP Chapter 11. In 2020 she received the prestigious Ivor Novello Awards’ Rising Star award.  This was then…

Dress: M&S (@marksandspencer) Shoes: Simmi London (@simmishoes) Jackets and Earrings: Foam of The Days (@foamofthedays) via I.DEA PR (@i.deapr) Waistcoat: Foam of The Days (@foamofthedays) via I.DEA PR (@i.deapr) Tights: Falke (@falke) via TASK PR (@taskpr) Shoes: Simmi London (@simmishoes) Earrings: Thomas Sabo (@thomassabo) via TASK PR (@taskpr) Top: Zara…

Shifters is a modern telling of a complicated love story written by Benedict Lombe; a prodigious talent and only the third black British woman to have a play on the West End. With backing from Idris Elba, Maya Jama and Little Simz this is a production that deserves its transfer…

I Am Roze – In Conversation In a cultural era of worshipping the privileged few, I Am Roze refuses to follow the herd. The Louisiana-born artist has already cemented a dedicated fan base following stunning appearances at BBC’s Later…with Jools and the Royal Albert Hall, with fans drawn to their…

We were pleased to catch up with Hertfordshire-born Tom Did It, a producer and rap artist. Tom told us all about his upcoming festival performances and exciting collaborations. Read on to find out more. How did you come up with the stage name ‘Tom Did It’? I used to be…

Josh Tedeku is a name you have probably heard many times this year. A trailblazing and highly determined actor, he holds an impressive  résumé at the tender age of 21. Starting his career in the comedy Festival of Slaps, which won a British Independent Film Award for Best British Short…

In the dynamic world of professional boxing, few names are making waves quite like Viddal Riley. The English cruiser weight champion is a prodigious talent with a growing profile, an individual who is not just a formidable athlete in the ring but also a charismatic figure beyond it. Riley’s story…

“Searching for that middle space… some might call it a home” Cake’s Essence Aikman on film, femininity and carving out identity with her bare hands Peering intently into the first half of Cake, I couldn’t decide what I was watching. Was it a simmering kitchen-sink, all clenched jaws and balled-up…

    Designer: Fungai Muzoroza Jewellery: H&M   Designer: Fungai Muzoroza Jewellery: H&M T   TEAM: Model: Kudakwashe Rice    @kuda_rice Photographer: Tatenda Makurumidze   @lennoxthephotographer Creative director and designer: Fungai Sarah Muzoroza    @fuzz.papi  @sheinx_official  

Each year the fashion world eagerly awaits the arrival of the first Monday of May, for us it means only one thing, the arrival of the Met Gala! This year hosted by Zendaya, Jennifer Lopez, Bad Bunny, and Chris Hemsworth. This spring the costume institute’s exhibition is entitled “Sleeping Beauties:…

Manchester based MC Slay is the artist you need to have on your playlist right now. Slay has been in the music industry for many years, primarily as a grime artist, finding success as a teenager with Mayhem Crew in the early part of his career. Coming up on stations…

    Dress: Dodo Bar Or Dress: Dodo Bar Or Olive dress: Toteme Purple dress: Leem Headwraps: Jennafer Grace Green dress: Christopher Esber Orange top: Andamane Orange skirt: Andamane Green top: Andamane Yellow top:Just Be Queen   Purple and yellow skirt: Leem Green blouse: Paige Green shorts and vest: Amy…

by Harvey Marwood Having achieved global recognition in his role as Aaron in award-winning Netflix TV series Top Boy, actor and musician Hope Ikpoku Jnr stands tall as one of the best multi-talented creatives in the industry right now. With a recent role in the film The Kitchen, written and…

The Oscars 2024: Best Looks by Sophie Bushnell The Oscars are back, once again celebrating the epitome of cinematic art as the 96th Academy Awards return to the iconic Hollywood’s Dolby Theatre, hosted by Jimmy Kimmel. As the stage is set for a night of honoring outstanding performances, direction, writing,…

By Portia B You can’t help but smile when Executive Producer and Bob’s eldest son Ziggy Marley pops up on the screen. A smile beams through his full beard as he speaks of the film and almost daily presence on set. He explains how authenticity will centre what we’re about…

PARIS FASHION WEEK FW 2024: A REVIEW by Sophie Bushnell Peter Do  Peter Do showcased their FW 2024 presentation during Paris Fashion Week displaying stunning looks to convey the designer’s mature and experimental approach to design, where each look tells a story of bold innovation. Christian Dior Christian Dior’s ready-to-wear…

Ghetts – On Purpose, With Purpose by Rue Blenkinsop Release date: 23rd February, 2024 Ghetts’ clear vision is brought to his audience on every track on this album. Tumbi takes you to the sea, before having watched the crashing waves humble him – it makes for a perfect music video…

Mithridate Autumn Winter 2024 by Sophie Bushnell Mithridate showed their latest Autumn Winter collection in Guildhall on Friday 16th February during London Fashion Week. Guests flocked down into the medieval Crypts of London, including actors Kelly Rutherford and Andrew Scott among many other fashionable attendees. The brand curated a bold…

Ahluwalia’s Fall 2024 ‘Reveries’ Collection Celebrates Nigerian and Indian Folklore By Allya-Brunnel Mormont Ahluwalia closed London Fashion Week with a magnificent collection inspired by the fairy tales the designer heard as a child. Influenced by her Nigerian and Indian heritage, Ahluwalia has consistently created a temporal and spatial contention in…

Written by Ellis LaMai On the 3rd of September 2012, Griselda Blanco was shot and killed at a butcher shop in Columbia, Medellín, right in front of her pregnant daughter in law. Just a month later, on October 25, rapper Meek Mill released his song Believe It featuring Rick Ross…

Redefining Sustainable Fashion with Pharoah Farrukh. There is one word which surrounds nearly every conversation regarding fashion these days – sustainability. In recent years, as the general population has been made aware of the ongoing climate crisis, there has been a heavy focus on the damage that the fashion industry…

By Lucy Ashburner 2024 Grammys – The Best Looks from the Red Carpet The Grammys is never one to disappoint when it comes to producing shockingly fabulous fashion moments – from Cher’s butterfly ensemble in 1974, to J.Lo’s iconic green Versace dress in 2000, the red carpet has truly seen…

The Kitchen: A review by Maisy Nichols Izi is getting out of the Kitchen, until he isn’t. Weeks before he’s due to pay his way out of the over-crowded complex housing the last of dystopian London’s poorest, he stumbles across the funeral of an old lover, attended only by her adolescent…

The hugely talented and successful photographer Kid Circus took time out to give us an insight into his journey as a photographer and his top tips as to how to navigate the creative industry.  by Charmaine McKoy What inspired you to become a photographer? It was quite organic if I’m…

A Rising Star: Ameerah Falzon is the young actress you need to have on your radar. Kicki Bostic speaks to the actress about childhood fame and her role in the Emmy award-winning show, Hilda. You’ve probably seen or heard of Ameerah Falzon. She played Jas Salford in the BBC Sitcom,…

LEAVE THE WORLD BEHIND… Written by Ellis La Mai If you were left in a post-apocalyptic situation with no internet, no transport and no hope for a saving grace, what would you do? You’re probably having some extremely noble thoughts but what would you ACTUALLY do? That’s what Sam Esmail wishes…

We should all be more like Hilda. Luke Pearson’s much-loved animation bids fond farewell in a nonchalantly profound lingering hug of a finale. Written by Maisy Nichols. If Hilda is a show that personifies those endless childhood summers, then Season Three is the last August. We’re coming to the end…

Pharrell Williams – how has he shaped Louis Vuitton since Virgil Abloh’s death? Written by Makayla Welch  Mumbles of confusion and dissatisfaction. That’s what rippled through the fashion industry when Pharrell Williams was appointed creative director of menswear at Louis Vuitton. In the wake of Virgil Abloh’s death, Louis Vuitton…

Beef created by Lee Sung Jin, The Dinner Party by Judy Chicago. Who gets a seat at the table?    Food and status in Beef and the art of Judy Chicago. Written by Francesca Tiana If you could choose 6 people, living or dead, to invite to a dinner party,…

Sir Lewis Hamilton and his Impact on the Fashion World. Written by Lucy Ashburner Sir Lewis Hamilton’s capabilities go far beyond what he’s able to do between lights out and the checquered flag on a Sunday afternoon. The Mercedes driver may be the most decorated athlete in the history of…