SMACK (magazine) - 1.December -

Welcome to SMACK! Your ultimate guide to navigating through life. Discussing fashion, music, trends, and everything in between. Whether you’re blasting the "latest hits", rocking the hottest styles, or keeping up with the most buzzworthy moments, SMACK has got you covered. We’re here to bring you back in time and update you on the trends you love, from fashion to the coolest bands. Dive into our polls, join the conversation, and discover what’s next in the world of music, pop culture, and beyond. It’s all about being unapologetically you, and with SMACK, we’ll help you own it every step of the way. 

Winter Love & Independence: Cuz Who Needs a BF When You’ve Got You?

The seasons are winding down, and winter wraps us in its cozy embrace. You know the drill: snowflakes falling, hot chocolate steaming, and couples everywhere being sooo cute it almost makes you gag. Let’s be real, though. Yeah, we all want to cuddle up with insert your celeb crush here (looking at you, young Ryan Gosling), but you don’t need a boo to have an epic winter.

Let’s flip the script: What if this season wasn’t about finding someone to hold your hand but about holding your own? Independence is a love story too, and winter is the perfect time to invest in the best relationship you’ll ever have: the one with yourself. Being single? Totally underrated. Winter is the perfect time to glow up, live it up, and show the world you’re thriving solo. Let’s ditch the pity party and make the most of this icy season—just you, your Uggs, and a killer playlist.

Top 5 Things to Do While Single This Winter

1. Channel Your Inner Snow Queen

Bundle up in your cutest winter outfit (puffy jackets = a vibe), grab your cam, and hit the park for a snow-filled photoshoot. Bonus points if you post it with a caption like, "Cold hands, warm heart. Who needs a bae?"

2. Hot Chocolate Glow-Up Night

Forget boring Swiss Miss – try DIY hot cocoa recipes! Add crushed candy canes, caramel drizzle, or even a dash of cinnamon for that café vibe. Set up a mini cocoa bar just for you, cuz you’re worth it. YUUUMMM!!

3. Winter Makeover Marathon

It’s time to break out that stack of glossy magazines, pick a few beauty hacks, and give yourself a makeover. New year, new lip gloss, who dis?

4. Stay In and Get Obsessed

Have a movie marathon of your fave rom-coms or binge the show everyone’s been talking about. No one to fight over the remote with = total win. Plus, extra popcorn all for you.

5. Get Crafty AF

Make friendship bracelets, knit a scarf, or bedazzle your old jeans—Y2K style. Artsy projects are majorly underrated and the perfect way to flex your creative side.

EXTRA: Write Your Winter Manifesto

Journaling is the ultimate way to explore your independence. Write down your goals, dreams, and gratitude. You might be surprised at how much magic is already in your life.

Why Flying Solo is the Move: Winter love doesn’t have to mean someone else. Sometimes, the best cuddle buddy is your favorite blanket, and the best love story is learning how to be your own biggest fan. Being single is all about you—figuring out what makes you happy and owning it like a boss.

So, pour yourself another cup of cocoa, grab a blanket, and toast to the best winter yet – no snuggles required <3

BESTIESSSS!!

This season is perfect for leveling up your friendships, finding new besties, and maybe even cutting loose the ones who bring bad vibes. Let’s make this winter all about the people who get you. We know the truth: your squad is where it’s at.

Lets not die of boredom check out these top 3 activities for your squad!

DIY Spa Night
Raid the drugstore for face masks, nail polish, and whatever smells good. Then crank up your fave throwback jams (Hilary Duff, anyone?) and treat yourselves like the queens you are. Bonus: Hilarious selfies in those green clay masks are a must.

Sledding Shenanigans
Find a hill, grab whatever slides (actual sleds, trash can lids, an old snowboard, trashbags), and GO. Be sure to race, crash, and laugh until your cheeks hurt from both the cold and the LOLs.

Cookie Bake-Off
Who can make the best cookies? Better yet, who can make the ugliest ones? Decorate with all the frosting and sprinkles you can find, then eat them while gossiping about the latest crush drama.

Ride or die vs frenemy

Not every friendship deserves a spot in your Spacehey Top 8. Here’s how to tell if someone’s ride-or-die—or if they’re bringing down your vibe.

Your Ride-or-Die:

• They hype you up like they’re your #1 fan.

• They listen to your drama and spill their own tea.

• You can totally be yourself around them, no filter.

Your Frenemy:

• They low-key insult you but call it a “joke.”

• They’re only around when it’s convenient for them.

• Drama follows them everywhere—and you’re stuck cleaning it up.

If someone’s bad energy is freezing you out (yuck), it’s okay to take a break. Focus on the friends who make life warmer.

Making New Friends = Totally Doable

Sometimes you need to mix it up and meet new people. Here’s how to branch out without it being awkward.

1. Join a Club or Team: Whether it’s drama, art, or debate, you’ll instantly have something in common with everyone there.

2. Say “Hey” First: Compliment someone’s style or ask a random question in class. Easy convo starter = instant bond.

3. Online Vibes: Get involved in safe online spaces like fan forums or hobby groups. Just remember to keep it safe and smart (because, duh).

Go to EVERYTHING: Winter dance? Holiday party? Random group hangout? Even if it’s not your usual thing, showing up could lead to something awesome. YOLO!!

QUIZ TIMEEEE: What Kind of Friend Are You?

Find out where you stand in your squad:

When your bestie’s having a bad day, you…

A. Make them laugh with a ridiculous meme.

B. Show up with snacks and let them vent.

C. Send them a playlist of mood-boosting songs.

D. Drag them out for a fun distraction.

What’s your winter squad activity of choice?

A. Sledding and snowball fights.

B. A cozy movie night with everyone.

C. Baking something ridiculous together.

D. Shopping for matching winter hats.

Drama pops up in your friend group. What’s your move?

A. Crack a joke to lighten the mood.

B. Mediate and keep everyone chill.

C. Stick with your closest bestie and wait it out.

D. Plan a group activity to distract everyone.

Mostly A’s: The Jokester – You’re the funny one, always making your friends laugh even when it’s freezing outside.

Mostly B’s: The Listener – You’re everyone’s emotional rock, the one they can trust no matter what.

Mostly C’s: The Creative – You come up with the most fun, out-of-the-box ideas that keep things exciting.

Mostly D’s: The Planner – You’re the squad organizer, always ready to keep the good times rolling.

Ugg-ceptional Style

Let’s be real: when you think of the 2000s, Uggs are basically a personality trait. Love them or hate them (or secretly love them while pretending to hate them), these iconic boots are the winter must-have. Whether you paired them with a miniskirt, yoga pants, or literally anything else, Uggs are all about serving cozy vibes with a side of IDGAF confidence.

This chapter is your ultimate guide to Uggs: the trends, the drama, and how they’re still part of our hearts today.

The Ugg Haters & the Drama

Of course, not everyone was on Team Ugg. Fashion “experts” called them ugly, impractical, and too basic. But did that stop anyone? Absolutely not. Ugg lovers wore their boots like a badge of honor, shrugging off the hate and saying, "Yeah, they’re called Uggs. They’re supposed to be ugly."

And let’s not forget the heated debates over whether you should wear socks with them (spoiler: yes, you should—it keeps the lining fresh).

Ugg Nation: The Ultimate Winter Staple

Let’s be real: when you think of the 2000s, Uggs are basically a personality trait. Love them or hate them (or secretly love them while pretending to hate them), these iconic boots were the winter must-have. Whether you paired them with a miniskirt, yoga pants, or literally anything else, Uggs were all about serving cozy vibes with a side of IDGAF confidence.

This chapter is your ultimate guide to Uggs: their history, the trends, the drama, and how they’re still part of our wardrobe rotation today.

How Uggs Took Over the World

First, a little history lesson (don’t worry, it’s fun). Ugg boots were originally made for surfers in Australia to keep their feet warm after catching waves. But then, sometime in the early 2000s, celebrities like Paris Hilton, Lindsay Lohan, and Britney Spears started rocking them everywhere—from red carpets to Starbucks runs. Suddenly, Uggs were the thing.

Soon, every girl in school had a pair (or at least a knockoff version). They came in all kinds of colors: classic tan, soft pink, or bold black. And if you were really cool? You had the ones with the buttons or sparkles.

How to Style Your Uggs

If you were a true fashionista, you know exactly how to wear your Uggs. Here’s a breakdown of the classic Ugg looks:

The Leggings & Oversized Hoodie Combo: Effortless and iconic. This was your go-to for lazy days or when you wanted to pretend you weren’t trying (but totally were). Bonus points if the hoodie repped your fave boy band.

Mini Skirt & Uggs: Confusing? Yes. A vibe? Also yes. Something about the contrast of a teeny skirt and bulky boots just works.

Jeans Tucked Into Uggs: The ultimate winter flex. Getting your jeans to tuck in perfectly without bunching up is an art form.

The Fuzzy Blanket Coat Look: Pair your Uggs with the fluffiest, warmest jacket you own. Add a matching scarf and look like a walking marshmallow.

Perhaps you want to be different and use your uggs as slippers: Ugg slippers are the ultimate upgrade for staying comfy indoors. Match them with cozy socks and binge your fave 2000s movies (Princess Diaries, anyone?).

The Ugg Haters & the Drama

Of course, not everyone’s on Team Ugg. Fashion “experts” call them ugly, impractical, and too basic. But does that stop anyone? Absolutely not. Ugg lovers wear their boots like a badge of honor, shrugging off the hate and saying, "Yeah, they’re called Uggs. They’re supposed to be ugly."

And let’s not forget the heated debates over whether you should wear socks with them (spoiler: yes, you should—it keeps the lining fresh).

Whether you’re reliving your 2000s Ugg phase or trying them out for the first time, one thing’s for sure: these boots are a winter mood. So, rock them with confidence, because Uggs are forever.

QUIZZ: what your Uggs tell about you

What’s your winter style?
A. Comfy and chill—leggings all the way.
B. Girly and fun—skirts and oversized knits.
C. Effortlessly trendy—anything the cool kids wear.

What’s your go-to winter accessory?

A. A giant hoodie that doubles as a blanket.
B. A fluffy scarf or earmuffs.
C. Big sunglasses, even in the snow.

Why do you love Uggs?
A. They’re warm and cozy, duh.
B. They go with everything.
C. They’re low-key iconic.

Mostly A's: The cozy Queen
You wear Uggs for pure comfort. You’re all about those lazy days, Netflix binges, and chill vibes. Whether you're pairing them with leggings or sweats, you make cozy look like an art form. Uggs are your go-to for keeping your feet warm and your style effortlessly laid-back.

Mostly B's The Fluffy Fashionista

You love Uggs because they give you that cute, girly vibe with a dash of practicality. Whether you're rocking them with skirts or cozy knits, you know how to balance warmth and style. You're always on top of your winter game, looking like you just stepped out of a winter wonderland photoshoot.

Mostly C's The Iconic Trendsetter
You’re not afraid to embrace your inner fashionista, and Uggs are just part of your effortlessly cool wardrobe. You’re all about the iconic vibe and love styling them with trendy outfits. From sunglasses to layered jackets, your Uggs are the finishing touch to your low-key, high-fashion look. You know how to make casual look chic.

Now to close up with today's magazine let's dive into the hit of the day.

Song of the Day: 

"Since U Been Gone" by Kelly Clarkson (2004)

Since U Been Gone isn’t just a song; it is a cultural reset. Kelly Clarkson took her American Idol crown and ran straight to pop-rock royalty with this breakup anthem that made us all feel like total badasses. Whether you were 13 and crying over your first crush or just screaming the lyrics for the drama of it all, this track hit every single nerve. Let’s break it down—because Since U Been Gone deserves its moment in the spotlight.

Why This Song Was EVERYTHING

First of all, the intro. That quiet, emotional build-up before it EXPLODES into guitars and Kelly’s powerhouse vocals? Chills. Kelly’s voice is raw, real, and so full of “I’m over you” energy that it made even the happiest relationships feel like they needed some re-evaluation.

This song wasn’t just about getting over someone; it was about thriving. Kelly made heartbreak sound like a victory lap, and we were here for it.

Lyrics That Hit Hard

Let’s be real: the lyrics in this song are untouchable.

“You had your chance, you blew it.” Straight-up savage.

“You see, I can breathe for the first time.” We’ve all imagined shouting this at someone who didn’t deserve us.

“Thanks to you, now I get what I want.” Empowerment. Pure empowerment.

These weren’t just words—they were the kind of lines you’d scrawl on your notebook or your AIM away message when you were feeling dramatic.

The Music Video: Peak 2000s Drama

The Since U Been Gone music video was a masterpiece of destruction and revenge. Kelly’s smashing lamps, ripping up clothes, and just generally wreaking havoc in her ex’s apartment like a total rockstar. She looked flawless doing it, too—those messy-yet-perfect layers were the haircut everyone wanted.

And can we talk about her outfits? The punky, casual “I don’t care, but I totally look amazing” style was a whole vibe.

Why It Slaps

This song has stood the test of time because its message is universal. Breakups happen. Life moves on. And Kelly gave us the ultimate anthem to blast at full volume while dancing around in our bedrooms (or crying in the car).

Plus, let’s not forget how Since U Been Gone paved the way for all the amazing pop-rock queens who followed, like Paramore and Avril Lavigne. Kelly walked so they could run.

Fun Fact: Did You Know?

Since U Been Gone almost didn’t happen for Kelly! The song was originally offered to Pink and Hilary Duff, but when Kelly got it, she asked for more guitars to amp up the energy. Iconic move.: Until Next Time, SMACK Fam

And just like that, we’re wrapping up another issue of SMACK—your ultimate guide to surviving (and thriving) through the ups and downs of life. Whether we’ve been jamming to 2000s bangers, spilling the tea on winter love, or digging into Uggs and BFF goals, we hope you’ve had as much fun reading as we did putting it all together.

Remember, SMACK isn’t just a magazine—it’s a vibe, a place for all the things that make you feel you. It’s about friendship, empowerment, and being unapologetically yourself, no matter what season life’s in. From our wild adventures to your cozy nights in, we’re always here to bring you the latest trends, laughs, and everything in between.

Until next time, keep slaying, keep laughing, and, most importantly, keep being YOU. Stay tuned for the next issue—we’ll be back with more music, more memories, and more of the content that you can’t live without.

So grab your favorite playlist, slide into those Uggs, and keep vibing. This journey is far from over!

See ya in the next SMACK!

xoxo

PS. Don't be shy for some feedback and feel free to commission subjects :)