Swedish daily Dagens Nyheter revealed today that H&M’s new chain will be called “& other stories.” [Ed. note: Worst. Name. Ever.] The first of the new stores will open early next year and will have “slightly higher prices” and a “little better” quality according to H&M spokeswoman Camilla Emilsson Falk. & other stories will reportedly include hair products, bed linen, table cloths and sporting goods, among other things. [Fashion Mag]

Meanwhile, a federal judge has bitch-slapped Reebok with a temporary restraining order banning the retailer from making or selling Tim Tebow New York Jets merch. Reebok, in an attempt at making amends, has offered to repurchase all unauthorized Tebow products from vendors and resellers, though they can still shill shit from the player’s former team, the Denver Broncos…until Saturday when their license with the NFL expires. [Ed. note: sucks to be Reebok right now.] [WWD]

According to papers filed in New York federal court, Reebok “never had an agreement with Tebow individually, nor did it obtain permission or consent to manufacture Tebow Jets product.” To that effect, a representative for Tim Tebow wrote a letter to Reebok on March 23 stating that they were misappropriating the quarterback’s name and advising the retailer to cease and desist.

Reebok allegedly never responded.

Nike further contends that Reebok’s license with the National Football League expired on March 1, a full three weeks after Tebow was traded from the Denver Broncos. Apparently Reebok can use the NFL logo on products until Mach 31, but beginning April 1, Nike will be the sole supplier of NFL uniforms and apparel. So Reebok can create new NFL-branded products until then, but not new products featuring an individual player, like one Tim Tebow, without his consent.

Nike is calling for Reebok to stop selling the “unauthorized Tebow product,” and is also seeking punitive damages.

Looks like Reebok could use some Tebowing right now. [WWD]

- Demi Moore may have been keeping a low profile after whipping it good, but this image from her latest Helena Rubenstein campaign could use a little more subtlety in the Photoshopping department. I mean, did they leave any of the poor woman’s skin in tact? [Telegraph]

- A day in the life of Karl Lagerfeld: wake up after exactly 7 hours of sleep, freebase Diet Coke all day, whitewash his hair, feed on some villagers and somewhere along the way he does his 12,000 little side projects. Repeat. [Harper's Bazaar]

- Alexander Wang was conspicuously absent from The Ethisphere Institute’s “World’s Most Ethical Companies,” though Gap, Target and L’Oréal made the list. [WWD]

- Adriana Lima confirmed today that she’s pregnant with her second child, meaning she’ll still be rockin’ her “bikini bod” well into her third trimester. Because that’s how fair life is. [People]

- Katy Perry and Baptiste Giabiconi are apparently still happening, despite no one actually caring or buying it for one second. It’s called commitment, kids. [The Cut]

- Beverly Johnson, the first black woman on the cover of Vogue, is getting a show on OWN, the network by the first black woman to literally own the world. [ONTD!]

- Aaaaaaand I’m pregnant. Daniel Radcliffe on the cover of Bullett. [Socialite Life]

- Proving further that humanity is basically just one large dumpster full of hopeless trash careening into a maelstrom of despair, cops had to shut down malls around the country to prevent shoppers from killing each other to get Nike‘s new Foamposite Galaxy 2012. [Styleite]

- Donatella Versace channeled Gianni Versace‘s final collection for the house’s fall 2012 presentation in Milan. “I can look at it now with a smile,” she said of her late brother. “I remember my last moments with Gianni, the rehearsal, the show. But finally I have freedom. I am not afraid.” [NYT]

- Noted couturier and sometime cobbler Kanye West designed shoes for Australian designer Dion Lee‘s fashion show during London Fashion Week. [The Cut]

- Speaking of the Obamas, the campaign’s Runway to Win e-commerce site went live today, featuring designs by Proenza Schouler, Marc Jacobs, Diane von Furstenberg, Alexander Wang and —  for kicks — the House of Dereon. [Runway to Win]

- Will wonders never cease? A Top Model contestant actually becomes a top model. ANTM‘s Cycle 10 reject Fatima Siad — the second coming of Iman — landed Hervé Léger‘s spring 2012 campaign. [The Cut]

- Blue Ivy Carter is officially a hitmaker. The less than a week old diva-in-training is the youngest person to enter the Billboard charts, riding on the coattails of daddy Hov’s “Glory.”  No one’s ready for this baby’s jelly. [People]

- Calvin Klein and his jailbait lothario Nick Gruber are apparently “on a break.” Guess Calvin finally put Nick down for his nap. [NYDN]

- Indie Music Style Star Azealia Banks is going Gaga, working with the Lady’s right-hand queen Nicola Formichetti on her latest video. [Fashionista]

- Nike‘s agreed to pay a group of nearly 4,500 Indonesian factory workers $1 million in overtime, which roughly comes out to the price of a pair of Air Jordans per worker. Congrats. [The Cut]

- Lingerie models stripped down to their skivvies in Paris’ Musee d’Orsay as part of a publicity stunt for panty purveyor Etam. Museum officials, however, were not amused. Mostly because they did it without getting permission to film in the museum first. [Huff Po]

Brooklyn-based Parlá is known for his distinctive style that blends calligraphy, collage, textures, and color in paintings that tackle politics, urbanization, current events and a slew of other complex topics.

To grace the special pairs of Converse, Parlá chose his painting “Ephemeral Pitches, and Notes, Rhythm and Phonetics,” which — inspired by abstract noises, music, rhythms, languages and sounds of cities — explores the constant changes to urban life. Those themes are particularly resonant for Parla, who grew up wearing Chucks as a kid.

To date, RED, (PRODUCT)RED and its partners, which include Gap, Apple, Hallmark, Starbucks and Nike, has raised nearly $180 million for The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. And starting this Thursday, you can do your part to help — and get a fly pair of kicks in the process. The José Parlá for Converse (PRODUCT)RED Chuck Taylor All Stars — in both men’s and women’s sizes – can be yours for $100 at Converse First String retailers.

Suede and nylon come together for a lightweight, retro shoe designed exclusively for Urban Outfitters.

Choose a geometric design in either black and white or purple and orange from this Marimekko x Converse collaboration.

We love our Nike hi tops, especially this peachy pink, mesh-sided version.

An adorable collaboration with Converse All-Star, we can't get enough of this heart-faced logo.

Only for the haute headed, these silvery glittered and studded sneaks are as luxurious as they are comfy.

To learn more about the campaign, visit Armani.com.

“The popular image of this jail is linked to the silk suits of godfathers and we need to cancel that image,” says Governor Barbera. But Barbera is an equal opportunity killjoy; in addition to the finer threads in life, she has banned Nike and Adidas. ”We need to cancel class differences and the showing off of status, power and wealth,” she emphasized.

The mob wives, for their part, are taking it as calmly as can be expected. “My husband will be left naked,” remarked one wife. ”He only has designer clothes, and that’s not because he’s flashy but because they last much longer and are better quality. Why humiliate him? Why force us to buy clothes at street markets?” She then tipped over a table, threw her drink in someone’s (anyone’s) face and lunged after the governor’s neck screaming about said naked husband.

The Ucciardone prison, known to inmates as “The Grand Hotel,” has been witness to mobsters holding lobster and champagne birthday banquets as well as a formal wedding in the prison chapel.

Why deny the sacred — and stunning — tradition of mobsters openly flaunting the law and looking great while doing it? I wouldn’t be surprised if Governor Rita Barbera wakes up next to  Raquel Zimmermann‘s head one day. [Guardian]

Maintaining a zen-like calm amidst a flurry of phone calls, text messages and BBMs, I was lucky enough to sit down with Unik and he was lucky enough to find time to eat. Turning 40 this Sunday, Unik revealed to me that among the things he’s learned is that with getting older, there’s no need to stress. “It doesn’t help anything.”

How he maintains that calm is a wonder, however. A highly in-demand promoter, Unik has worked for brands like Nike, Diesel, La Perla, Valentino, and Microsoft, while organizing events for the Sundance and Cannes Film Festivals as well as New York Fashion Week. But the subject closest to his heart is his home country of Haiti.

Born and raised in Port-au-Prince, Unik settled in America permanently in 1990 and immediately got to work. He parlayed his love of partying into a successful career and uses his high-profile contacts to help out his native land. For his 35th birthday, instead of gifts, he asked his friends to donate to any foundation that helped the children of his country. After raising $15,000, he decided to keep the tradition growing and the following year Edeyo was born.

Tonight, Unik once again gathers his celebrity pals to raise money for the children of Haiti and bring light to their cause. Naomi Campbell and her boyfriend Vladimir Doronin donated their custom Lotus for the event’s auction, which also includes two trips to the Caribbean. But when I asked Unik what the night’s  biggest surprise would be, he responded in his Unik Ernest manner: “Raising $100,000.”

Here’s hoping he gets his birthday wish.

- Australian retailers are now charging shoppers as much as $50 to try on clothes in an effort to cut back on people buying discounted fashions online after perfecting the fit in-store. The fee is refundable, however, should patrons decide to buy the article of clothing. Personally, I never try on clothes, mostly because I’m lazy. If I get home and something is too big I’ll call it “oversized” and if it’s too small, I call it an “aspirational piece.” I also love finding reasons to not eat, which I call “going on a diet.” [Daily Mail]

- Riccardo Tisci is still the front-runner to replace John Galliano at Dior, but his name is being bandied about with the likes of Olivier Theyskens, Tom Ford, Hedi Slimane, Nicolas Ghesquière, Alber Elbaz, Sarah Burton, Haider Ackermann and Prabal Gurung. Tisci has reportedly already sketched out his vision for the brand and has a supporter in Delphine Arnault, Bernard’s daughter and Dior’s deputy managing director. However, Bernard Arnault‘s eyeing the Royal Wedding, hoping to align Dior with the young couple; so if Burton catches Kate Middleton‘s sartorial bouquet she could be next on the list. The atelier is nevertheless hard at work on their upcoming cruise collection and a couture collection for July. [WWD]

The Camisole: The camisole is one if the most basic pieces to your spring gym wardrobe. It should be fitted enough to show your body but not too tight because you still have to workout. It’s best to pick one out in a neutral color so you can transition them into your regular wardrobe when you aren’t in the gym. This Under Armour Camisole is great because it absorbs moisture and has a built in bra.

The Sports Bra: Nothing else says you are more comfortable with your body than wearing just a sports bra around the gym. Get a bold color to make the statement and stay in rend with this seasons brighter look. GAP offer this stretch knit sports bra. You’ve worked hard for that flat tummy so why not show it off.

Yoga Pants: Yoga pants can easily look boring and bad at the gym. You can add a little something to the dullness of the pants by buying them with a printed waistband. Victoria’s Secret PINK collection has you covered for any print that you can think up.

The Shorts: It’s always great to show a little leg no matter where you are. A pair of printed shorts adds personality to you workout outfit and look way more sophisticated than the regular Sofee short. Make sure you are comfortable with the cut of the short and remember you are at the gym and not a stripclub. No one really wants to see your buttcheeks. ROXY is known for there cute prints and their Athletix line offers these great shorts

.

The Shoes: Some people think that shoes aren’t that important in a workout: Wrong! They are extremely important to the training you want to do and they can make or break your outfit. Throw out your boring clunky shoes and trade them in for Nike’s LunarSwift+ Women’s Running Shoe. They are lightweight and are the perfect pop of color.

The Outerwear: It’s important that what ever you wear over your gym clothes is just as just as what is under. for this get a jacket that is but functional and flirty. You can’t go wrong with this Nike Cyclone Jacket. It also works great for those chilly morning runs.

The Bag: A girl has to have her accessories. Instead of toting around a cumbersome gym bag, opt for the Retro Groove bag from lululemon. This is a super sleek way of carrying all your gear.

With a body of neoprene and a bubbly rubber sole encasement, these Tron Legacy x Opening Ceremony sneaker-heel-hybrids look fit to work. They look light, like the weight of those sneakers that make your socks look like fat asses. Only pretty.

They are reminiscent of Ruthie Davis, whose shoes are the self-proclaimed offspring of a passionate love affair between Nike and Manolo. These Opening Ceremony kicks look more like K-Swiss fucked Michael Kors. It was hot.

Thanks Opening Ceremony, for creating this Tron Legacy inspired beauty. If you still had them available in more than just the aqua blue, I’d be jogging in them tomorrow to Tron’s Daft Punk soundtrack.

Sadly, this will NOT send a message to counterfeiters.

Known for rodeos and corn conversations at the local Wal-Mart, Abilene isn’t exactly a fashion capital of the world.

Three stores were responsible for trademark infringement on brands including Nike, Abercrombie & Fitch, Polo and Tommy Hilfiger, among others.

This is a start in the counterfeiting fight. But next time, the Feds need to focus on a more fashion savvy locale.

The only ones intimidated by this shake down were a handful of sleepy cattle.

[Link Love: WWD]

William Lounsbury/Senior Staff Photographer For a source of urban aperal check out the newly relocated New York Fashion.

Oprah‘s audience literally shat itself during the very very last of her “Favorite Things” episodes. Out of pure excitement and fantasy-fulfillment euphoria, several members of the audience simply lost control of their bowels. Especially this lady. Find out why after the jump.

This is what the studio audience received in the first part of O’s Faves:

Philip Stein limited edition Oprah 25th anniversary watch with 58 handset diamonds ($2,475)
Flannel Tory Tote ($250) and Reva Ballerina Flat ($195) by Tory Burch
Nikon D3100 Digital SLR camera ($700)
Cashmere sweater by Ralph Lauren and throw ($498)
Judith Ripka eclipse earrings ($525)
Oprah hair stylist Andre Walker’s shampoo and hair kit ($65)
Lafco House candle set ($55 each)
Breville panini press from Williams-Sonoma ($100)
Kyocera ceramic knife ($75)
Beecher’s handmade mac and cheese
Baker’s Edge brownie and lasangne pans/Ghiradelli brownie mix
A Course in Weight Loss
Decoded by Jay-Z
5-year Netflix membership
52-inch 3D Bravia Sony television ($3,600)
Sony Blue-Ray player and movie collection
Kiva gift card courtesy Groupon
elfa custom-built Container Store closet ($1000)
“O” Store long-sleeve v-neck T-shirt ($38)
Lululemon drawstring pant ($98)
Four pairs of Nike “Free run +” shoes ($85)
7-day United/Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas cruise

And just when they thought it was over…Oprah’s Favorite Things, Part 2: Gayle’s Revenge:

iPad, with Scrabble app
Ugg sparkle boots
A Coach satchel
Magaschoni tunic and leggings
Hope in a Jar moisturizer by Philosophy
Nordstrom lingerie
Prepara Herb Saver
Chicken pot pie from Centerville Pie Company
Garrett Popcorn Shops “Oprah’s Favorite Things” tin
Le Creuset cookware
Miraclesuit blue jeans
A jewelry box from Pottery Barn
Diamond earrings from Dana Rebecca Designs
A gift card for DonorsChoose.org
Mini croissants from Williams-Sonoma
Talbott Teas holiday assortment
The Book of Awakening, a book by Mark Nepo
Illuminations, an album from Josh Groban
Let It Be Me, an album from Johnny Mathis
A 2012 Volkswagen Beetle  (available for delivery May 2011)

And if that wasn’t enough, everyone also went home with the realization that they’re lives have officially peaked and it’s all downhill from here. Oprah, too, was saddened, but luckily she had an uncirculated $1500 bill (Obama on the front, the HARPO building on the back) on hand to wipe away her diamond-encrusted tears.

LINK LOVE: Fashion Foie Gras

But the rumor wasn’t absolutely false – Wang and Nike had been calculating a partnership for spring 2011 that fell through.

Oh well, maybe next year we can snag something similar to those $400 biker shorts for less.

LINK LOVE: The Cut

Fashionologie said Wang‘s PR team could not be reached for comment. I guess Nike wants to join the likes of Adidas and Puma with a designer collaboration, producing clothes that actually make me want to go to the gym. I can’t wait to hear if this one is true or false.

LINK LOVE: Fashionologie

LINK LOVE: FRESHNESS

After gathering a generous  fan base, he returned to New York, where he is originally a native of, and began work as the Associate Designer for high-end evening wear designer Anne Bowen.  Combining his background of KIMBO, the urban bold graphics with the experience of the sleek design he obtained while at Bowen, he is proud to present his first full-length collection which can be found here. This collection fuses the two different styles into interesting silhouettes with unique graphic elements and fabric treatments.  To follow on Twitter click here

To follow on Facebook click here

You’re never going to guess who wore these craptastic trainers at the Iron Man Premiere!!!!

Actor/writer Justin Theroux. See I told you you’d never guess cause you have no fucking clue who that is.

I’m assuming this is the dude from Office Space, but I can’t be sure and I’m guessing these are some kind of promotional sneakers from Nike for the movie. I get the Iron Man shaded version, but what’s with black and blue’s?

What are you’re thoughts indies. Would you wear two different sneakers on the red carpet?

[photo from HuffingtonPost]

This was the year of the ugly shoe, from Christian Louboutin to Alexander McQueen’s Lobster Claw shoes, 2009 had it all!

1. Blondes X Christian Louboutin Spike Shoes: tacky tacky with some added sparkley tack!

2. The Lunar Race, by Harajuku Location, Nike: the perfect sneaker for the play-doh lover in all of us.

3. Osborn Design Studio booties:  umh?

4. Elisa Lindenberg Moga e Mago: Remember weaving plastic yarn in middle school to make key chains? Prob could have made these as well!

5.  Jeremy Scott JS Wings Crystallized sneakers:  Let’s play ‘guess how many rhinestones are on here.’

6. Surface to Air: Gladiator meets orthopedic meets cheetah!

7. Comme des Garsons: Sharpie marker, check! Oxfords, check! Drunken DIY project, check!

8. ‘Leora’ by Sergio Rossi: My Little Pony was murdered for these! Oh the outrage!

9. Givenchy Bondage Oxford:  Nausea, heartburn, indigestion, upset stomach, diarrhea. Hey Givenchy!

10. Alexander McQueen Lobster Claw:  Everyone wants them…but boy are they UGLY!

LINK LOVE:  Highsnobette and Shoewawa

40%-70% Off Selected items through out the store.

3.1 Phillip Lim, 5+1_Annapurna, Alexander Wang, Alexander Yamaguchi, Arne & Carlos, Balmain, Beautiful People, Black Pupil, Cassaves, Charles Anastase, Common Projects, Commuun, Elizabeth & James, Eugenia Kim, Florian, Golden Goose, Giuseppe Zanotti, Harnold Brook, Henrik Vibskov, Insideout, Jasmine Di Milo, Kitsune, Kris Van Asshe, KZO, Lanvin, Lovemilla, Lyle & Scott Archive, M / Marani, Martin Margiela, MM6, Neil Barrett, Nike, R13, Shipley & Halmos, Silvain Sylvian, Thomas Wylde, WJK, Ylang Ylang

Starting
Saturday, December 5th

505 Greenwich Street
Btwn Spring and Canal

Discount Applies To In Store Purchases Only

Aloha Rag is hosting a massive 40% – 70% off sale on all Fall/Winter merchandise in their store.

3.1 Phillip Lim, 5+1_Annapurna, Alexander Wang, Alexander Yamaguchi, Arne & Carlos, Balmain, Beautiful People, Black Pupil, Cassaves, Charles Anastase, Common Projects, Commuun, Elizabeth & James, Eugenia Kim, Florian, Golden Goose, Giuseppe Zanotti, Harnold Brook, Henrik Vibskov, Insideout, Jasmine Di Milo, Kitsune, Kris Van Asshe, KZO, Lanvin, Lovemilla, Lyle & Scott, M/Marani, Martin Margiela, MM6, Neil Barrett, Nike, R13
Shipley & Halmos, Silvain Sylvian, Thomas Wylde, WJK, Ylang Ylang

Friday, November 27th

505 Greenwich Street
Btwn Spring and Canal

*Discount Applies To In Store Purchases Only

Alexander Wang

Ugly jeans, stupid Nikes, a semi blow out, and a tee shirt with a rosary printed on it….if it looks like a guido, acts like a guido, well I guess that makes it a guido. Remember when JT was relevant? William Rast who? Life must suck when the lights fade.

LINK LOVE: Just Jared

Nike’s latest hoodie is quickly becoming Standard Issue for World’s Greatest. With Tennis Champ Maria Sharapova as a fan, we’re pretty convinced.

In fashion, you’re constantly bombarded with the latest and greatest in a plethora mind numbing categories; this seasons greatest bag, the summers must have flip flop, the perfect clutch for your Yaz birth control (seriously, Nina Garcia was pushing this one), after a while it’s all a blur.

Of course, there are some announcements you can’t ignore. Case in point,  Nike’s AW77 Hoodie.

Being touted as “Standard Issue for World’s Greatest”, the new AW77 Hoodie features a couple of pretty advanced improvements from the basic fall throw-on.

The hood offers some major cushion and comfort and is designed to zip up to your chin to block any chills. French looped cotton lines the hoodie, providing some major warmth and a bit of a lux alternative to traditional cotton. Nike’s history with athletes led them to make sure the hoodie holds its shape and withstands the punishment of daily training. And it’s finished interior, flatlocked and taped seams means no exposed edges which means you’ll always feel the warm and covered.

Nike really pulled out all the stops for the AW77 and it shows in every element of the Hoodie. Best of all, there are two types of AW77 you can purchase, SHIELD, a water resistant element blocking tech hoodie designed with windproof zippers and watershedding construction, and WARM, an insulated hoodie equipped with double layer hoods and quilted insulation to keep your core temperature warm in even the harshest New York winter.

A highly covetable must buy for those who want more out of their hoodie, the AW77 is the perfect edition to any closet.

This week marks the start of the U.S. Open tennis championships in New York City. With a regular cast of fashionable characters in the crowd, such as Anna Wintour, we want to know who you think the most fashionable ON the court? My vote is for Roger Federer due mostly to the fact that Nike hooks him up hard, but those Williams sisters usually bring something good as well.

What do you say indies?

Summers in New York City are a blur as it is, but when you mix in the amazing nightlife scene and free alcohol, it’s like they never even existed. This weekend was no exception to that previous statement, because even as I’m typing this article I find myself remembering more and more from this amazing weekend that came and went way too fast.

I started weekend off at my seemingly new hangout The Annex for Ruff Club, which happens every Friday. The people and the scene are always great, and as one trendy person after the next files through the front corridor, you can’t help but get excited for the amazing DJ’s to crank up the volume and get the party going. However this Friday was different from the past. Our beloved women’s editor Kirby was celebrating her last night in the city before embarking on a month long vacation that has her back and fourth between Chicago, Los Angeles, and her home. So as Kirby, Hillary, Dez, myself, and our crew of trendy accomplices crowded around our table and bottles of vodka and champagne, there was feeling that we had to make this party a memorable (via photographs and text messages of course) one, and it did. The music was great, everyone was dancing, and the camera just kept on flashing, but when the time came, we all slowly filtered out of the club, each wandering our own paths home.

Saturday brought me a day of rest, as I tried to piece together the night before with my roommates and Hillary over brunch. It seemed that we all made it home in one piece, minus the one $200 Nike Dunk that some how made from my roommates foot, over the fence into the World Trade Center. As night fell it was time to saddle up again, so we headed out to our favorite local pub for cheap drinks. The place is so low key we usually have the whole place to ourselves, but as the drinks flow so do the invites we send to our friends, and before we knew it the place was pretty packed.

Sunday was rough. Some how the decision to go thrifting in Williamsburg was made, but the heat and the exhaustion left not only Hillary (as you can see above), but all of us in need for some AC and some good old cable TV (however I did score an amazing pair of boots for $25). A late night dinner before Entourage completed my weekend, and now I’m ready (I think) to tackle this week.

Be sure to check back this week, as there are a lot of events going on that I’ll be keeping you posted on! Thanks again to all the people at Ruff Club who keep the Fashion Indie crew happy, we love you to death! (Yes that means you Aaron). Be sure to check out the Ruff Club website for the calendar of wonderful events they are hosting, we’d love to see you out there!

While a good majority of New York males have a decent sense of style, their shoe choices tend to revolve around dilapidated Converse, Nikes, Toms or Vans. But should I ever come across a guy rocking out the classically inspired, Southern California based Esquivel Shoes, I may very well kiss the ground he walks on. Made entirely by hand from the finest materials, veteran cobbler George Esquivel has dressed Grammy nominees to members of royal families with his stunning array of men’s dress shoes. Ranging from simple, classic oxfords to distressed lace-up boots, Esquivel has a shoe for every type of man whether he be sophisticated or flashy. So tell me, is there a Mrs. Esquivel, and if so, does she craft women’s shoes? I’ll cross my fingers! 

GALLERY: DESIGNER TO KNOW: Esquivel Shoes

Check out Esquivel Shoes here! 

Fashion people love riding boots. Every season they show up somewhere on the runways, and are considered a classic must have. As far as flat practical boots go, riding boots are as chic as it gets.

Men of prominence wore riding boots during the early 1700′s, folding over the top for greater leg mobility and creating the classic upper brown band. This turndown of leather allowed the boot to be tighter on the calf and eliminate any gap below your breeches. 

Original dress riding boots were worn by jumpers at shows and dressage riders and lack any lacing. These riding boots were closely associated with nobility, causing them to have a high heel (thats where the saying well-healed comes from). Most current riding boots have heels less then one inch.

As menswear as women’s wear gained momentum in the 1920′s riding boots became trendy and emerged in a more feminine style. As opposed to stark black leather, women wore flat riding boots in fabrics such as silk and suede in muted tan colors. These boots from the 1920′s, right, look extremely modern proving riding boots are a classic.

Riding boots have taken on a new type of functionality in recent years with their rubber counterparts. Like Hunter Wellies, but so much more chic and just as comfortable, these riding boot imitators will keep your feet warm and dry without sacrificing any style points. Even classic riding boot manufactures, like Burberry (right) are jumping on this rubber trend.

2008 saw the riding boot transform itself into a diverse range of styles. Hermes sent this white animal skin variation down their Spring runway and Gucci created these thigh high fringe masterpieces that were worn by Rihanna.

Nike has recently created a “space-age” riding boot that combines function and style. Called the Ippeas, Greek for rider, Nike’s boot uses leather and synthetic material with has a built in spur. This is a huge departure from the classic riding both aesthetic that has barely changed since the 1700′s. These innovated boots were used by horseback riders in the Beijing Olympics, but would look totally at home on the streets as an updated chic sporty version of the classic riding boot.

Not sure exactly where I found these two, but I am so glad that I did (so much that I want to tell everyone I know, and all of you Indies that I don’t know about it).  Formally Tomás and Geraldine, these childhood friends have created one hell of a design team that puts LaChapelle at the end of the line.  Photographer and artist Tomi, and artist/illustrator/graphic designer/teacher Cherry reside in Argentina and are constantly creating the most insane work I’ve ever seen.   A big way these two are creating such off-the-wall work is because of their similar visions, and passion for art.  Tomi described to me:

 

“How we work together, is by doing everything side by side. We work together from the beginning designing and manufacturing the scenography’s, and also afterwards taking the pictures (deciding best angle for the shoots and illuminating a scene together). So we don’t credit our work separately as nowadays our knowledges are melting into each other more and more.. usually we credit as doing the photos together, as the final photo is the result of all the work previusly done. But it’s not like I’m specifically the photographer and Cherry the set designer.”

If you aren’t already familiar with his stuff, head immediately over to Rankin’s site.  You’re bound to find something you recognize (like the shot from Mary Kate and Ashley’s Influence  cover), and be unbelievably impressed with his extensive portfolio.  Rankin co-launched Dazed & Confused in ’91 with his business partner, Jefferson Hack, and has continued to shake up the photo world ever since.  He’s done dozens of famous ad campaigns (from Nike, to Dove, to Jameson), and shot just about every celebrity (Madonna, Heidi Klum, The Rolling Stones, Kate Moss…), but I was impressed the most by his beauty portfolio, a series of creative shots, crazy makeup , and perfect lighting.  Rankin is best known for his intimacy with his subjects, and these up close and personal shots display just that.

SOURCE: Kingdom Of Style

Natalya @ Select

WE LOVE THESE NIKE GLADIATOR SANDALS. They are so amazing and perfect for anyone looking for a summer look that’s a little more sporty than the traditional flip flop.

These new gladiators are women’s sandals, but I know a few men who could pull off this sporty look.

Art Center College student Nancy Wu designed this Nike gladiator sandal for the label’s Remixed & Recut hybrid footwear line for S/S 2009.

GALLERY: Nike Gladiator Sandals

I’m 99% sure that these shoes are illegal, but how crazy are Solefood Shop’s “Canal Street” Air Force Ones!? The gnarly kicks combine several brand-name logos, from Louis Vuitton and Chanel to Fendi and Prada, making them the most ultimate knockoff find! Hilarious how the typical velcro strap is replaced with a watch band.

Thanks Highsnobette!

This is an awesome viral video, at least we’re assuming that’s what it is, for Nike where Taylor Momsen pretends to be subhuman in order to dodge paparazzi.

LINKAGE: Fashionista

Shoes are a leading growth segment of the counterfeit market, and this weekend British officials seized fake Gucci, Jimmy Choos, and Nikes with a face value of $3.5 million. So before dropping a ton of dough on your next pair of LV sneakers, make sure they’re legit.

LINKAGE: UPI

Mason Martin Magiela

NIKE/Nancy Wu

Found these Mason Martin Margiela shoes on Highsnobette, and immediatly they reminded me of something we recently posted. These cutout shoes look quite similar to the NIKE /Nancy Wu gladiator sneakers. And, the MMM shoes are on preorder for $575, betcha the NIKEs are a fraction of that.

NIKE/Nancy Wu

Nike has asked Nancy Wu to design a remix project for the brand. I have to say, the results disappoint me. Her illustrations and such are so adorable, but I can’t figure out how she came up with these. Gladiator sneakers… really? I don’t see how these serve a purpose, whether fashion or function wise. It looks like the pair of Goodwill sneakers I tried to make cutouts in a few years ago. FAIL.

Thanks Highsnobette!

Ashley Olsen’s outfit here is a decent casual, cold-weather outfit. The black is on par for the celebrity lifestyle; the crocodile Fendi tote is luxurious … and then you scroll all the way down.

Walking around the city can wear out your feet, but shouldn’t Ashley, of all people, have better options than a clunky black sneaker?

I’m all for wearing sneakers if you want, but when you’re an Olsen, these Nikes are just a pair of size 5 sore thumbs.

Image from Olsen-Files.

74009 INF/Starface 2008-12-16 New York New York États-Unis Ashley Olsen fait du shopping EXCLUSIVE

Carri Munden, the designer behind Cassette Playa, recently sat down to talk a bit more about the collaboration she did with Nike. The shoes come out on Saturday, so go get in line with the other one million kids who want a chance to snag these custom kicks.

Thanks Highsnobiety

We’ve been combing their sales floor all week to pick out some of the best items from this weekends sale.

Check out our Top Ten Sale Picks…

1. Galliano Dark Pink Jeans

The color screams “pay the f*ck attention to me” and that’s probably why we love the so much. These Galliano’s are so painfully fetch and at $107 plus 30% off these aren’t gonna be on the sale floor for long. Check them out.

2. Nike Blazer Metallic Pewter Midtops

There’s something so Beyonce in Gareth Pugh about these that I can’t help but love them. I rarely endorse Nike’s but I want at least three pairs of these under my Chanukah bush this season. Grab them for $108 plus an extra 30% off before they’re gone.

3. Mike & Chris Floyd Neck Coat

Yes, yes I know Mike & Chris are currently debunked, but that’s no reason to not swoop up a couple of their pieces before they’re all gone!!! This jacket is completely covetable and the attached scarf makes it worth every penny and the few jealous stares from your less sartorially inclined friendos. You can grab it at SSENSE.com for $220 plus 30% off.

4. 0044 Cross Necklace

Crosses are always hot but this menagerie of various Jesus pieces is the equivalent of molten lava around your neck. You know you want it and for $161 plus 30% off you can have it at the SSENSE.com Black Friday sale. Check it out now.

5. Diesel Black Gold Flosse Dark Blue Dress

I don’t give Diesel as much air time as I could but upon seeing this dress I knew their new Black Gold collection would be right up my alley. It kind of reminds me of something Maria Cornejo or color block king Johnathan Saunders would dish out, but at $320 plus 30% off it’s about half the price of one of their pricier pieces. Yay, economy conscience fashions!!! Pick it up here.

6. CNC Patent Black Leather Boots

Some argue that patent leather is getting a bit overexposed, but I can’t get enough. These CNC shoes are powerful little statement makers that will get noticed for all the right reasons. You can get them for $466 plus a ery generous 30% off at SSENSE.com.

7. Paul & Joe Bianco Black Melange Trousers

They’re wideleg, pleated, and high waisted. The kind of pants that should only be attempted by the bravest of the brave. If you think you can pull these off, buy them. They will make you looking so flippin good and will ensure that your status as style queen remains in tact. They’re available for $428 plus 30% off at the SSENSE.com sale.

8. Diesel Wild Girls Newclip Black Boots

Lighting Bolts + Boots = Lighting BOOTS!!! I’m easily swayed by quirky fashion and these Diesel boots ring every bell in my body. You can grab them for $238 plus 30% off.

9. Juicy Couture High Seas Plaid Wool Skirt

This skirt is painfully chic. The slight bursts of red in the pattern and it’s undeniable warmth make this a serious must-have. Plus, the plaid is just to die for, I need it, I want it, I just bought it for $209 plus 30% off.

10. Karl Lagerfeld Denise K T-Shirt

What do you want? I’m a sucker for Karl. It’s $250 plus 30% off at the SSENSE.com Black Friday sale.

The Nike Air Force II “Gucci” Colorway. Is this even legal? If I were Gucci I’d be pissed, these are ugly!

Thanks Hypebeast

Not another failed collaboration! It looks to me as if Comme des Garcons is really missing the mark with their recent collaboration lines, first with H&M and now with Nike! Really, this new version of the classic Dunk High are possibly the most hideous shoes i’ve ever seen. I don’t care if they’ve got zipper and buckles to make them one of a kind, these shoes look like Frankenstein or the old man down the street with the uneven legs would wear them. Hey guys, don’t look twice at these shoes, keep your money…and your dignity! 

Thanks Popgloss!

Take it from a snowboarding obsessed Buffalonian, you do NOT want to wear snowboard boots out in public. Not only will everyone make fun of you for looking like a tool (especially if you don’t actually snowboard and are wearing them for the sake of fashion) but the boots aren’t exactly graceful to walk in. Snowboard boots force you bend your knees when you walk, so by all means, if you want to imitate the kid next-door with cerebral palsy, then wearing snowboard boots is the way to go. 

Visit NYLON for the idiotic article.

Searching For Louis Vuitton. So are 450,000 others.

WWD just revealed ten of the most searched for brands in the month of July. Not surprised that Nike was number one, but are people really searching for Guess on the web?  Honestly, do you really need to search the web for Guess?  You can just trip into any suburbia mall and find at least one outpost of the this crummy jeans wear. And why aren’t Fendi and Prada represented?

1. Nike- Searched 797,892 Times

2. Gucci- Searched 495,357 Times

3. Louis Vuitton- Searched 472,118 Times

4. Juicy Couture- Searched 463,088 Times

5. Chanel- Searched 373,920 Times

6. Polo Ralph Lauren- Searched 333,844 Times

7. Burberry- Searched 281,293 Times

8. Diesel- Searched 281,032 Times

9. Adias- Searched 263,238 Times

10. Guess- Searched 225,939 Times

Whatever happened to just wearing a pin of the person you were going to vote for? I have no porblem with Nike either, but don’t you think this whole limited edition sneaker thing is getting a bit out of hand? Not that I support McCain, but I almost want to go to a place where kids will be lined up to get these and hand out flyers for McCain. By the way, the kids who are buying these probably aren’t even old enough to vote.

Nike’s new ad campaign for its Hyperdunk shoes features a series of pictures of basketball players getting dunked on in what’s considered the worst way possible: the dunker dangling off the rim, his balls dangling in the face of the man being dunk-ee. Gawker lays down the facts:

1. These ads do indeed depict what is widely considered to be the most humiliating possible thing that can happen to someone on a basketball court.

2. That humiliation arises from the balls-in-face aspect of the dunk, meaning it is fundamentally a homophobic sentiment. At least subconsciously.

3. Nike’s ad placement shows they’re appealing to a very specific basketball player/ fan demographic. It’s doubtful they’d use this same ad campaign for the general public, without some tweaks.

Do you indies agree? Is the ad world homophobic or is this just being taken overboard?

#10 – As a lethal beauty, Agent 99 couldn’t resist Chanel’s weapon-wear for the runway. It’s fashion and function in one…IF you’re a spy.

#9 – Skooba’s Skreener Bag wouldn’t fool modern-day X-ray machines, but looks like it might. Fashion is all about appearances.

#8 – Dr. Jenny Tillotson constructed this scent dress to mimic the body’s circulation system. An interactive fabric emits a selection of scents depending on your mood to create a personal “smell bubble.” Probably not the most stealth of outfits.

#7 – All you need is love. Literally. The “Embrace Me” hoodie’s logo pattern, made of a silver conductive fabric, is powered when two people embrace: it lights up while giving off a faint heartbeat sound.

#6 – Cleopatra’s iconic gold arm band goes digital with the Nike+ SportBand. Runners can monitor distance, pace, time and calories burned and then plug into their laptop to download the data.

#5 – Charge your iPod Shuffle while you bask on the beach. NYU student Andrew Schneider’s solar bikinis are handmade and specifically designed to fit and flatter your body. A male version, with enough voltage to keep a six pack of beer cool (the original inspiration for the project) is in the works.

#4 – A tiny sensor strapped into the laces of the running shoes in the Nike+ Capable series makes it possible listen to real-time Nike audio feedback wirelessly through to the receiver.

#3 – Keep your data close to your heart and covered in bling with Swarovski’s clever charm with a hidden jump drive for stealing files (or just downloading party pics off friends’ laptops, for us NON-spys).

#2 – Ideal for slope-side sleuth work. Burton‘s Audex ski jacket is fitted with enough gear to fuel a private dj station. Bluetooth technology and a control panel with caller ID are hidden in the sleeve, and speakers and a microphone are concealed in the hood.

#1 – Proof that the future is finally here: fashion and comfort have merged. These Mary Janes are just one of several collapsible heels that have hit the market. Go from stilettos to kitten heels in a few clicks.

Content source: StyleList

Fashionista called the first ones “a high-healed sneaker, which is a little like slapping a heal onto an Ugg and calling it evening wear.” This I must agree with. Horrid and unneeded, it’s not like these make proper attire for a party, and this defeats the point of a sneaker for comfort since there is a heal.

The second ones retail for $125 and are flower covered sneakers from Nike. What would you even wear these with? Jeans and a t-shirt? Weigh in indies, either or neither?