Jimmy Choo Styled Uggs

Ugg boots have been around for quite some time and always (without a fail) spark a heated debate - you either love 'em or hate 'em. With the arrival of Fall, the sheep skin footwear are a staple for those who want durability and comfort. However, the question still remains: are they fashionable? Recently, Jimmy Choo has teamed up with the brand and created his own high fashion spin. Can the boots finally be salvaged? Is it possible the ugly duck can finally become a swan? Jimmy Choo created limited edition styles straight from the runway by bedazzling the boots in animal print, studding, and fringe. I don't own Ugg boots myself, but these styles aren't too bad - actually, i'm sort of into them. I like the added funk and color, not to mention that you immediately notice them on the streets. The price ranges from $495-795 (compared to the originals which range $120-$180). Celebrities such as Nicky Hilton tweeted "I love my new Jimmy Choo Uggs" and added a picture of black fringed boots, adorned by silver studded stars. If celebrities are wearing them will you? Did Jimmy Choo do justice to the Ugg? What do you think?

Text Jessica Moy

'I Will Survive'

Joana Vasconcelos confronts the world of embroidery and crochet, sex and simulacra at the Burlington Gardens as Autumn officially takes a stand on London. Finding inspiration for her first London exhibition through the daily themes of life. Entitled after the musical genius of Gloria Gaynor's 'I will Survive' this showcase captures a very disciplined, often stereotypical skill and transforms it into something almost unimaginable. The idea of crochet, embroidery and beading dwarfing the entrance hall of the Haunch of Venison is impressive. Vasconcelos's ability to explore similar themes of femininity and womanhood in a range of forms and materials ensures the exhibition that flows over a massive nine rooms will capture and hold the audiences throughout, the 'Garden of Eden' is breathtaking.

Text Katriona Flynn

Model Watch Monday: Hello, Sunshine.

Meet Anastasia Krivosheeva, 19 from Russia. There isn't really any story here, she wasn't discovered while walking with some friends to school, shopping or tanning on the beach. Anastasia just walked into a modeling agency in Moscow and said, "Hello" ... and lucky for us she did.  She is now represented by Women Direct NY, Women Milan, Silent, Uno, Place Models, Premier Models Management, and her mother agency World Fashion. Can't wait to see this one evolve, someone shoot her for the cover of CHAOS stat ... with a stare like that, watch out, must contact Women Direct. ;)

photo: Women Direct NY

Let Freedom Ring

It’s finally autumn. As soon as we’re done with mourning beach days and warm night breezes, we can start worshipping those fall nights when all you want to do is curl up with a mug of hot cider and a good book. One literary recommendation is the book of the season (it seems book releases have the tendency to mimic fashion trends), Freedom by Jonathan Franzen. It has been getting mostly glowing reviews from independent bloggers and the Guardian alike. Franzen’s story of surburban couple Patty and Walter Berglund is refreshingly contemporary, referencing marital strife and Bush-era politics; plus, Oprah chose it as her latest Book Club pick, and you can’t deny the power of Oprah. Hah!  Give it a read and tell us what you think!

Text Molly O'Brien

Graffiti Two Ways

Remember carving your initials into your desk in elementary school and how satisfying it was to mark a piece of your own territory, even something as silly as a fake piece of wood? Well, here are two ways to take that to the next level. You can check out the Flickr pool of “The Knitting Graffiti Group" , full of pictures of knit “tags” in public places, from colorful yarn flowers on playground fences to scarf-like tubes around trees. It may not be spray paint or wheat paste stickers, but yarn proves to be a pretty cool graffiti alternative.

For another option, there’s Trespass: A History of Uncommissioned Art, a Taschen book that brings together urban art, graffiti and performance art all over the globe into one tome. Everyone from Banksy and Jenny Holzer to Barry McGee and Shepard Fairey is represented. Sure to be a fun, fascinating read.

Text Molly O'Brien

Bloodlust Beauty

I can’t say it’s a huge shock (or even a little one) that the country’s current obsession with vampires has begun to influence beauty trends; it was only a matter of time. When I came across this image, taken backstage at the Proenza Schouler Fall 2010 RTW show, I was immediately caught off guard by the model’s penetrating stare and couldn’t help but think that maybe she was trying to ‘glamour’ me. Once I came to my senses and realized that this was obviously impossible (right?!), I became enamored with her lip color. Though I usually feel too self conscious to wear anything this dark, I am truly inspired. This deep purple pout is a fresh re-imagination of the vampy red look and is sure to compliment all of your new fall fashion finds. Just be sure to avoid looking overdone by leaving the rest of your face muted.

Text Jessica Best

'In Wolves Clothing Re-Imagining the Doll'

Showstudios was conceived on the idea of showcasing live, the process of the creation of fashion imagery. Having captured the creative processes of some of the worlds greatest designers, it seems obvious that when showstudios launched their shop it was equally going to be some thing fashionably unique and sensational. Offering exclusive one off creations by world renowned designers of fashion, film and stage, each store item would be, if you like, and as the people of Showstudios themselves describe it, 'the unprecedented opportunity to purchase a true piece of fashion history'. But the joy does not end there, to coincide with London Design festival 2010 Showstudios have curated an exhibition entitled 'In Wolves Clothing Re-Imagining the Doll'. Exploring the portrayal and concept of figurines in fashion, Contributions have been made by Victor and Rolf, Peter Jensen, Enchanted Doll and Knight himself to mention a few. These little treasures are up for purchase and running until the 30th of October at Bruton Place, London. Even if your purse doesn't stretch to it, your eye should.

Text Katriona Flynn

Not Your Average Flea Market

.... . .-.. .-.. --- / .-.. --- ... / .- -. --. . .-.. . ...!

For those who don't know any Morse Code (yeah, me neither): Hello Los Angeles!

Anyone in the L.A. area who enjoys chasing their Sunday brunch with a healthy dose of retail therapy should know that Space 15 Twenty is having their monthly flea market today. Space 15 Twenty is a huge retail space which normally offers wares from such stores as Urban Outfitters, Free People and What Goes Around Comes Around, as well as delicious eats from Umami Burger. The flea market will be a sweet combination of vintage clothes and accessories, live music, and art shown off in their gallery space. If you're on the West Coast, get your stylish self down to 1520 N Cahuenga Blvd from 11 a.m. to 4. Check out more on their website here.

Text Molly O'Brien

So Fresh & So New: Designer Kimberley Ovitz

Kimberley Ovitz is a young new designer who has awesome new styles for fall 2010. She was born in Los Angeles, California and pursued her passion in life. Her collection is filled with everyday garments displaying diverse neutral tones. She has a plethora of funky draping oversized pieces as well as chic casual knits.

Kimberly Ovitz her online website lets browsers take a look at her latest collections for 2010/2011 as well as shop online. So check it out and let CHAOS magazine know what you think. Could her collection add spice into your wardrobe these coming months?

Text Cara Jacobs

Badgley Mischka Spring 2011 RTW

While it comes as no surprise that there was no shortage of exquisite evening gowns at the Badgley Mischka Spring 2011 RTW show yesterday at the first fashion week held at Lincoln Center, design duo Mark Badgley and James Mischka definitely stirred the pot. Amid the divine dresses that will surely grace many a red carpet come awards season, were chic sportswear pieces that evoked the seventies. Also delectably unexpected was the team’s decision to feature three collections during one show—couture, ready-to-wear, and the more modestly priced Mark & James line. This interplay made for a very dynamic display in which a bikini top with sheer overlay and high waisted silk shorts were followed by a dreamy blue Grecian gown. Despite the presentation of three distinct styles the show never lacked a feeling of consistency; and though other collections also favored floppy hats and high waists, Mark Badgley and James Mischka elevated the look with elegant embellishments all their own.

Text Jessica Best

Marc by Jacobs Spring 2011

FINALLY - the flirty, fun working girl can rejoice as Marc Jacob's second line Marc by Marc Jacobs Spring 2011 collection was shown on the sixth day of New York Fashion week. The American designer's show took place at the New York State Armory and easily pleased the crowd with his new masterpieces. The first model came out wearing a flowing white dress that reached knee length and had prominent horizontal stripes of yellow, blue, and peach. Bringing back the sweet innocent look, Marc kept his signature bold, bright, pieces (such as his purses, bangles, and sunglasses) and mixed it into the neutral blouses, skirts, and jumpsuits. Some models came out with bowler hats (as seen in picture) which covered their frizzy whimsical hair-do. All the models were shown with Orange lipstick which mingled well with the eccentric chic outfits. Orange seemed to be the color of choice - many purses and accessories were coated with the color. Not a lot of designers use the rusty color, but it seems to be the shade for the up-coming season. My favorite outfit went to the model who wore the striped jumpsuit (which looks similar to the opening dress) and put together with beige wedges - only Marc can perfectly match neutral and exotic colors perfectly. Bows accentuated waists in the skirts and pants - not to mention they were also tied at the ankle with some wedges. Marc's collection did not only gear towards ladies, gentlemen you may rejoice as well. My favorite pieces from the male's were the long grey raincoat, copper pants and belt bags (yes, it is what it sounds).

Text Jessica Moy

'I Am Sad Leyla'

Internationally renowned and regarded fashion designer Hussein Chalayan presents his wonderful work, 'I Am Sad Leyla' at the Lisson Gallery this September. For those attending the exhibition in hope of seeing Chalayans wearable masterpieces they are in for a shock, but a treat. In many ways Chalayan is probally approaching similar themes and moods that he would his fashion creations, however for this exhibition Hussein is approaching how a certain genre of music is perceived. Presenting a classical Arabic story, told through the song 'I Am Sad Leyla' originally written for a turkish dubbed Egyptian Film in the 1940s he explores the story of lost love and heartbreak, but possibly more importantly the "shifting environments, conquests, political reforms, geo political and cultural relations' of the piece have all altered and as Chalayan describes it evolved due to their perception in the London Gallery where all of the aboves expectations are different. It is cleverly and cautiously presented and has all the alluring charm of any of Chalayan work. From the man who could indeed make decomposed silk dresses beautiful, would you expect anything less.

Text Katriona Flynn

Hipstamatic Hype

An iPhone app that lets you take Holga-esque photos? Hipsters everywhere will unanimously scoff at the name "Hipstamatic" but I suspect more than a few of those hipsters will end up buying the app, which indeed does make otherwise mundane photos look appropriately "vintage." The idea behind Hipstamatic is a synthesis of digital ease and analog nostalgia; the app lets you choose film, flashes, and lenses in an attempt to make iPhone photography seem more retro, something the humor writer Jimmy Chen wrote a funny essay about on Thought Catalog.

Those who want to be more authentic about their retro photo obsessions might actually want to buy a real Holga camera, but for those who'd rather take a quick cell phone snap, the Hipstamatic app might be of interest.

Text Molly O'Brien

Lets Accessorize!

A brother and sister duo that grew up in sunny Florida always dreamed of creating pieces that looked like found treasures. They have been inspired by everything around them, being extremely interested in making pieces that are impossible to place in the continuum. Giles and Brother trinkets are unique designs that are inspired by estate jewelry and African textiles. They sell a wide range of accessories such as bracelets, necklaces, earrings, rings and key rings for both men and women. So here is where you come in, as the weather changes it’s time for you to start changing your look as well. Lets face it, we all wear the same accessories everyday its time for a unique and chic transformation. Giles and Brother have exclusive jewelry that sets you apart from everyone else. Whether your treating yourself or surprising someone else, all the pieces are different and made with love. These costume and sterling silver jewelry pieces will have people stopping you on the big city streets.

Cara Jacobs

NY Fashion week: Christian Siriano

While his critics claim that his fame is based solely on his success on Bravo’s hit TV series Project Runway, Christian Siriano’s Spring 2011 collection proved that he is so much more than a fan favorite. Siriano’s show kicked off NY fashion week with a collection filled with exotic prints, dramatic shapes, and compelling eveningwear. His collection is best described as a “glam safari”, inspired by the exotic cultures of Africa, India, and China. In typical Siriano fashion, many of his best pieces incorporate ruffles, embellishment, and asymmetrical hems. Stepping out of his comfort zone, Siriano made sure that he included more than just show-stopping gowns, which is another major criticism of the designer. Short cocktail dresses, tailored suits, and bold trousers were all created using attention-catching fabrics such as snakeskin and tweed. While these pieces certainly did the job of proving that this designer is more than a one hit wonder, they failed to introduce any new or innovative ideas to the fashion world. The audience was craving something revolutionary, but the silhouettes were things that we’ve all seen before. However, these looks should not take away from the captivating collection of evening gowns that truly stole the show. Siriano’s eveningwear has always been nothing short of magical, and this collection was no exception. His gowns, while different in color (ranging from sparkly buff to shocking red), all boasted a sea of tulle ruffles, whether they created a full skirt emerging from a fitted bodice or a concentrated layer spanning from one shoulder to the ground. Aside from the clothing, Siriano also proved that he has staying power in the fashion world with his shoes. He created four major styles (Shanghai, Mumbai, Nairobi, and Zanzi) that tied every individual look back to the collection’s ethnic and exotic inspiration. The shoes were all platform heels (sky high, of course), with wooden bases and intricately carved heels in different shapes. All in all, Siriano’s show was inspiring, glamorous, and high-drama.


By Ali Antonucci

White as the Driven Snow

Growing up, it was drilled into my head early on that I should not, under any circumstances, wear white after Labor Day. This included white stockings, and to my complete chagrin white patent leather Mary Janes; though to be fair, the ban on white patent leather Mary Janes could have also been due to their uncanny ability to go from cute to tacky at the drop of a hat. As a result, for much of my adult life I have avoided winter whites like the plague. Okay, maybe not quite like the plague but definitely like a bad cold. Up until this season I have been sartorially crippled by the imagined consequences of violating this all important rule, i.e. that I would be cruelly shunned by my peers and forced to live in the New York City subway system like a mole person. However, since we have just crept past Labor Day and white has been seen on countless Fall 2010 RTW runways including Chanel’s, I am poised to face my fear by incorporating white into my fall/winter wardrobe. In the interest of creating some balance though, I will probably only wear one milky piece at a time.

Text Jessica Best

To Fur or Not To Fur?

When it comes to fashion, and I mean what else would I be talking about here? We can all probably agree that fur is a particularly hot button issue. There are those who are staunchly anti-fur, there are those who are staunchly pro-fur, and there are still others who fall somewhere along the rest of the spectrum. Though I can’t remember if wearing fur is currently a do or a don’t, I will cautiously admit that I personally don’t have a problem with it. [Here’s hoping I don’t get red paint thrown at me for this.] While I will not bore you with the specifics of why I feel this way, I will say that no matter where you stand on the issue, you will have to acknowledge the impending fall 2010 fur trend. Fur of both the real and faux persuasion was seen on countless runways this season and will, no doubt, be spotted on many a fashion fiend once the weather turns crisp. My current fur fave is this Adrienne Landau Mink Loop Scarf which will add polish to any laid back fall look. What do you think?

Text Jessica Best

We have released The Young & Reckless Issue featuring British Male Model Rory Torrens

We just released the Young & Reckless issue, end of summer 2010. The cover features British male model stunner Rory Torrens. The cover was shot in London by Fashion Photographer Piczo. This issue features some amazing editorials, trust me when I say you don't want to miss this issue. The digital download of the complete issue is only $3 bucks on our website! So download this baby and enjoy over 300 pages of thought provoking articles and beautiful fashion editorials with a bit of rebellion, edge, sex appeal and the recklessness of youth delivered right to your desktop.

Buy it here: CHAOS Magazine, The Young & Reckless Issue, end of summer 2010. 

Also, view this amazing fashion video shot by Videographer Alexander Alexandrov on the CHAOS website by clicking below: CHAOS MAGAZINE WEBSITE

Tracey Emin

Tracey Emin 'Walking with Tears' is a collection of mono print drawings and prints from the past sixteen years, they are undoubtedly a series of works with varying subject matter from birds and squirrels, to explicit nudity. However, whilst the range is broad they remain still easily identifiable as Emins works through the quality of the broken line. Emin is one of the herons of contemporary British Art and whilst controversial to say the least, contemporary art would be nothing, if not a boundary pusher. As a autobiographical artist, Emins is renowned, respected and also hugely scrutinized from the often brutal honesty she uses in documenting the affairs of her life. Whilst the likes of Everyone I Have Ever Slept With 1963–1995 and My Bed are probably the works most commonly associated with Emin, this particular exhibition is a fantastic reminder of the skill of Emins. The exhibition gains acknowledgement for her practical craftsmanship, not only her ability to deal with a contemporary subject. Truth is that the skill is always present, it can however sometimes be lost in the phase of controversy. Be it through needlework and sculpture, video and installation or in this case print and drawing, Emins is very good at what she does. Presented in the rather random setting of the Sir Hugh Casson Room, daily from 4pm until 6pm at the Royal Academy of Arts, 'Waling with Tears'.

Text Katriona Flynn

Want To Make Change?

Here is something mind-expanding to read today: Massive Change, by Bruce Mau and the Institute Without Boundaries. Mau is a Canadian designer who has held a diverse range of jobs, from college professor to studio owner to creative director of I.D. magazine, and in this book he manages to synthesize the work of a host of disciplines in order to create a kind of manifesto about the way the world might work in the future.

Massive Change discusses everything from transportation to housing to sustainable business to the possibilities of the Internet. Experts from dozens of fields weigh in on the way our lives can be improved, whether from building high speed cross-country Maglev train lines, manipulating global economic policies, or simply planting more bamboo. It's an exhilarating read, if only because it presents an almost infinite scope of what the future of Planet Earth might be - and it's surprisingly optimistic. If nothing else, check out Massive Change for its gorgeous design; somehow it manages to present huge ideas in a very readable way. Look at Bruce Mau's website here.

Text Molly O'Brien

En Pointe

Not gonna lie - I'm horrible at dancing. Amid a frenzy of gyrating dancers, my best move lies somewhere between the Robot and the Running Man. That doesn't mean I can't appreciate great dancing. A minor obsession with ballet was stoked this summer when I saw the NYC Ballet perform a series of Balanchine and Wheeldon pieces in Saratoga Springs, including an insanely graceful one called "After The Rain" featuring principal dancer Wendy Whelan.

And balletophiles like myself will rejoice after watching the trailer for Black Swan, a ballet-themed psychological thriller starring Natalie Portman as a talented NYC dancer with a seriously derailing mental state. Directed by Darren Aronofsky (The Wrestler), the film looks like the perfect combination of beautiful and creepy. Black Swan premieres in December, and I'll be dutifully practicing my arabesques until then.

Text Molly O'Brien

Far-Fetched Fall 2010

As summer comes to an end and work or school start to kick in, life defiantly gets more stressful. The weather starts to turn and we all slowly become lethargic. However, creating a great outfit can make your day that much better. As a fashionista, it’s completely normal to start brainstorming what to wear as the weather gets cooler each day. Here are some style tips for fall 2010:

Shoes: As you start shopping around for striking new shoes, you should look into buying clogs. Clogs are great because your toes aren’t out in the open and they have an extremely comfortable heel. ALDO, has great, affordable clogs that are chic for fall 2010.

Pants: Wide leg pants are becoming extremely popular.  AQUA, which is sold exclusively at Bloomingdales, has adorable silk cargo pants. You can wear these for a more casual look as well as pair them with above said clogs to dress up a little more. These are great because they add length to your legs and come in two different colors. There are also plenty of other brands such as Michael Kors, J Brand and 7 For All Mankind that sell trendy cargo pants in diverse materials.

Tops: The cargo pants go great with a light tank and a blazer as well as a floral shirt.

Don’t let the weather make or break your day, confidently strut your stuff into work/school and make a statement for Fall 2010!

Cara Jacobs

Lanvin for H&M?

Swedish clothing brand H&M (Hennes and Mauritz) are notorious for collaborating with high end designers without the high end price. In the past H&M has successfully worked with the likes of Karl Lagerfeld, Stella McCartney, and most recently Jimmy Choo. Every time H&M releases designs from a fashion great, I notice huge line ups and the entire collection selling out within the first hour (cat fights may or may not be included). Yesterday on their website, they have released a video teaser on a NEW collaborator. Rumor has it that Lanvin’s creative director Alber Elbaz is going to work extensively with the stylish store. Lanvin is the oldest fashion house and was founded by Jeanne Lanvin in 1909. In Elbaz's talented hands, his designs, in my opinion, will suit the store very well. He has the talent of knowing what women want: simple yet feminine clothing. Although, there's some doubt as Elbaz admits, “I have a problem to do a collection that is a secondary line. I mean, you don’t want to be the stepsister. You want to be Cinderella. Show me one girl who wants to be the stepsister.” Of course, he wants to be the shining star and have his collection to stand out rather than be put in the back of the racks. If you have seen his Winter 2010 collection (with sexy skirt suits and black ruffled, layered dresses), you’d know he has nothing to worry about - any business women with an edge would be happy to purchase his line. However, when will we know for certainty if this collaboration is going to happen? Wait and see for the reveal

Text Jessica Moy

Camel Comfort

A few posts ago, I put the camel craze on the back burner to discuss my recent disillusionment with Lady Gaga. To be perfectly frank, I had no intention of picking the topic back up at a later date, but I quickly realized that this current obsession could not, no, would not be dismissed. I don’t think I could have continued, with any real conviction, to call myself a fashion blogger if I did not at least touch on what could arguably be considered fall’s biggest trend. With that said, how yummy does Chanel Iman look here? Although she was probably sweating profusely, I don’t think I have ever seen anyone look that cozy without wearing a snuggy. Not only does this image [taken at Michael Kors’ Fall 2010 RTW runway show] exhibit the color’s unbelievable richness but it also demonstrates the many different ways the look can be achieved, i.e. you could don a camel hued hat, scarf, boots, or all three if you like to live life on the edge. Needless to say, despite my initial indifference to this emphatic proliferation, it should be clear that at least one camel colored piece should be included in your fall wardrobe this season.

Text Jessica Best