I’ve recently become reacquainted with Moonshine. No, I haven’t taken to distilling my own liquor, but I have rediscovered my fondness for Shelly Toonie’s designs. I have an alt (shhh…don’t tell) whose inventory consists predominantly of Moonshine clothing, yet I have only a few pieces on my main account. So, I was delighted when Shelly, a relatively new friend thanks to plurk, offered me her new Fleur Smock to feature here. Read the rest of this entry »
For the next five days, March 18th through March 22nd, five of Second Life’s most renowned and talented jewelry designers present for you a very special trunk show: The Armoire. Candy Cerveau of Eye Candy, Caliah Lyon of Muse, Violet Voltaire of Violet Voltaire, Kesseret Steeplechase of Kess Kreations, and Saiyge Lotus of Balderdash have each created living dioramas to showcase the mood and theme of their collections. These unique exhibits are hidden in a mystical labyrinth with a shopping pavilion nestled in its core.
So what makes this jewelry showcase different than any other? Its designed to be interactive. The jewelry will be displayed by live models positioned in each diorama and visitors are encouraged to join in the Journeyman’s Quest to collect gemstones that will lead them to spectacular qifts, including some limited edition items. Here’s a bit of information about the quest as it was shared with me:
You are a journeyman jeweler newly learning your trade. You have traveled to a magical labyrinth where you’ve heard you can perfect your skills with some of the finest jewelers in the land. You’ve been given a jewelry box to collect gems for your creations, and in the labyrinth, your task is to seek those magical gems. Collect six of each color to gain a Key of Knowledge that opens magical chests — do they hold the knowledge that you seek? Open the chests of silver and gold, and your quest for the Master’s exemplary jewelry is complete.
Take this magic carpet to the event site and begin your own quest. Keep reading for more information and photos of some of the designs that are featured. Read the rest of this entry »
By now, I’m certain you are all aware of the tragic brush fires that have impacted so many of our Australian friends. Second Life residents from around the globe have come together, as a community, to raise money and awareness to support the relief efforts. Dakota Buck and Autumn Hykova head up one of the fundraising efforts currently underway, and content creators from across the grid have joined in, offering limited edition items, holding auctions and collecting donations. You can find the current list of participating designers on Dakota’s blog.
Iota Ultsch of Tres Jolie, herself a native Australian, generously offered the Le Jardin Oriental dress in Valentine, to anyone who made a donation of L$1000 or more at her store’s donation kiosk. To date, the Tres Jolie group has raised over L$200,000 in support of this worthy cause.
The dress is made of floaty, ethereal, French silk chiffon in an intense cerise. As is to be expected of a Tres Jolie design, the craftsmanship is flawless. Iota also includes a matching necklace: a ruby heart ringed with diamonds on a delicate chain. Here, though, I’ve chosen to wear Maitreya’s new Long Scarf in Sangria. And, as always, I’m wearing a skin from Fleur. This one is the Fleur Allure Valentine in Cinnamon, part of the Vain, Inc. Kissed Grid Wide Hunt.
Please support the Victorian Brushfire Relief effort by visiting Tres Jolie or any of the other designers.
Style Sheet: Dress: Tres Jolie Le Jardin Oriental in Valentine Scarf: Maitreya Long Scarf in Sangria Hair: Lamb Breeze in Snickers Skin: Fleur Allure Cinnamon Valentine Shoes: Pixel Mode Leeza in Liquid
Georgiabean Lately is the latest endeavor by the multi-talented SL fashion icon, Babyhoney Bailey. Located on Crush Row in Doll City, Georgiabean Lately offers a range of vintage-inspired accessories from the glam Muffums with Head Crown (created in collaboration with *BOOM*) to pearl necklaces and a collection of fabulously over-sized cocktail rings.
I’m particularly enamored by the snowflake rings which come in two sizes…big and bigger! The larger size comes in a Silent Film version, with both diamond and onyx stones, and has been released with matching cuffs and necklace. The Caridaisee rings I’m wearing in Rockstar and Oceanic are big, bold, colorful and are the perfect statement-making accessory. But there is also the Ladybug Cocktail ring, the Crimson Cocktail collection, the Twilight Collection, the Love/Hate cuffs, the 90 Degree Blowout set with it’s gorgeous pearls, and so much more!
Bho, as she is affectionately known to her friends, always has her finger firmly planted on the pulse of the SL fashion scene. She brings the outside world to the grid through not only her designs, but her personal style. One look around her store on Crush Row and you will find a lush space that is both open and coolly modern, while being warm and inviting. Just like the designer, herself. So, stop in, look around, pick up some great jewelry to brighten your winter wardrobe (did I mention she even has some scarves and belts? No? Well, you’ll find them here, as well), and I hear there might even be a little freebie hunt taking place on Crush Row. So what are you waiting for?
You can also find a selection of Georgabean Lately designs at caLLie cLine in caLLifornia.
Style Notes: All Jewelry: Georgiabean Lately by Babyhoney Bailey Bustier: Carmela by MichaMi (part of outfit) Skirt: FooFoo Tutu in Black by Canimal Hair: Pasadena Girl in Dark Auburn by Armidi Skin: Fleur Vivant Bronze 3 Feline Lashes: Bedroom Lashes by Cake Vanity: Creamshop Toon Heart Vanity (monochrome) Poses: Long Awkward Pose – Eye Candy Pose Set (15) Mannequin: Tricolore Photo Studio Poche Limited (unopened)
Iota Ultsch of Tres Jolie Haute Couture has released her Chrome gown and it is a work of art created in honor of a dear first life friend of the designer.
Iota shared with me the touching story of her friend, who is battling breast cancer. The metallic texture of the dress represents the strength with which she has faced her disease and the metallic intervention against her body. The single exposed breast symbolizes the beauty of the feminine form and the vulnerability one feels when faced with the loss of such personal magnitude. A full-coverage version of the bodice is also included for the more demure.
The digitally generated design of undulating liquid chrome moves beautifully about the body. The belt is accented by Mother of Pearl medallions and horsehair tassels which add an earthiness to the otherwise industrial textures. This gown is central to Tres Jolie Haute Couture’s current collection which is inspired by Iota’s love for, and work in, the architecture industry.
Iota includes all of the accessories necessary to complete the look as it is intended, with a tall collar of polished chrome, large, but simple, hoop earrings and a contemporary take on the bindhi.
You can find this, as well as other Tres Jolie Haute Couture styles, at the main store in Slusteria. Iota Ultsch’s designs range from classic to couture and each is exquisitely detailed and flawlessly finished. Be sure to visit Tres Jolie! and say hello to Iota while you are there…you won’t be disappointed.
Style Sheet:
Gown and Jewelry: Chrome by Tres Jolie Haute Couture
Hair: Machete in Black and White & Piper in Black and Grey both by Deviant Kitties
Boots: Latex Boots by Yummy
Skin: Fleur Vivant Bronze 3 Feline
Nails: Fleur Nails Regular Dark Set in Red
Eyes: Mid:OceanBlue by Glanz
A few weeks ago, Iota Ultsch sent a very special gift to her Tres Jolie group members with the following message:
Now, I will freely admit to being a little out of touch the last few weeks, but to have missed this?!? I must have been living under a rock. Why, you ask…Because the gift was this amazing Dressed to Kill Umbrella! And not just any umbrella, mind you, but a fire arm fit for a fashion assassin masquerading as a gun! Yes, weaponry and weather-proofing in one very fashionable accessory! While I was photographing Torrid Midnight’s Paraplu pose set and AO, I was chatting with the Tres Jolie group, and asked Iota to suggest a frock to go with my red paraplu. When I arrived at her boutique on Slusteria, and Iota graciously offered the umbrella I had missed out on, I knew instantly that I would be doing a second umbrella post. This time with Iota’s Rouge Metallique dress as the star of the show! As the name suggests, the frock is metallic in texture and hued in a vibrant red. The bodice features an offset neckline, perfect for framing the included choker. The skirt moves beautifully, as though made of silk, but it is the creative way in which Iota has used something as industrial and architectural as metal, softened it, and created a gown that is, at once, high-fashion and completely wearable. Iota also includes a gorgeous pair of pave diamond earrings to complete the ensemble.
Iota suggested these white patent ankle boots from Bax Boots, and they are perfect. They are also scripted for infinite customization. Wear them with or without the lace topper, change the color of the soles, the heels, the grommets, the laces…the possibilities are endless. But there was one problem. How to shoot a photograph of myself using the umbrella as a weapon. If there is a way to take a photo of yourself while in mouselook, I don’t know it. So, I called on fellow Tres Jolie group member, Applonia Criss to help out. She graciously provided the photos I needed and we spent some time chatting about her in-world magazine, NuView. Wow! What a passionate and creative person she is! I’ll be sure to tell you more about Applonia and NuView really soon…I might even do a couple of articles for her! Wheeee!
So, don’t be a fashion disaster. Everything you need to look and feel like a Fashion Assassin is available at Tres Jolie. And if you ask really nicely, maybe even add Tres Jolie to your profile picks, I’ll bet Iota will give you the Dressed to Kill Umbrella, too!
Style Notes: Dress and Jewelry: Rouge Metallique by Tres Jolie Shoes: Ankle Boots White Patent by Bax Boots Skin: Fleur Vivant Bronze 3 Feline Hair: Davina II in Blonde by ETD Umbrella: Dressed To Kill – Tres Jolie Group Gift Top two photos by Applonia Criss
In case you couldn’t tell by my last post regarding Chambre du Chocolat, I am quite the fan of Eshi Otawara’s designs. Having had the opportunity to spend some time with her lately, watching her transform a barren sim into a work of art (check back for my upcoming post on the opening of said sim, Rouge), I’ve become even more of a fangirl.
Her latest release, Moonlight is a vision in slinky sexiness. Beautifully textured with a to-the-knee plunging neckline, mermaid skirt and a sculpted hood draped down the back, the dress is perfect for an evening of dancing with that special someone. Eshi has also included a necklace and earrings that perfectly complete the ensemble. The dress is also available in red and teal. Words alone cannot describe the refined elegance of this gown, so I will let the pictures speak for themselves and cut right to the style sheet. Oh, but I will leave you with one, final thought…get thee to Chambre du Chocolat tout de suite and buy out the store! There is not a single uninteresting or less-than-stunning design to be found. You won’t be disappointed. Style Sheet:Dress, Gloves and Jewelry: Moonlight by Chambre du Chocolat in blue and in whiteShoes: Elegant Slingbacks by Stiletto Moody in Silver TwinkleSkin: Fleur Vivant Bronze 3 FelineHair: Davina II in Black Faded by ETDLip Piercing: Monroe by FuelRing: Black Sapphire by RedgravePoses by Torrid
Oh, but I will leave you with one, final thought…get thee to Chambre du Chocolat tout de suite and buy out the store! There is not a single uninteresting or less-than-stunning design to be found. You won’t be disappointed.
Style Sheet:Dress, Gloves and Jewelry: Moonlight by Chambre du Chocolat in blue and in whiteShoes: Elegant Slingbacks by Stiletto Moody in Silver TwinkleSkin: Fleur Vivant Bronze 3 FelineHair: Davina II in Black Faded by ETDLip Piercing: Monroe by FuelRing: Black Sapphire by RedgravePoses by Torrid
Sofia Gray mentioned, on her blog, a new store called .:: MekaNoiZe Labs ::. . This futuristic build carries a very limited selection, at present, of well-made clothing.Their design aesthetic is decidedly CyberGoth/CyberPunk, and is a complete departure from my usual style. But, lately, I’ve been itching to mix it up a little bit, and the outfits I picked up at .:: MekaNoiZe Labs ::. provide that opportunity.There are three outfits currently available for sale: Invader, De/konstrukt, and Monokrom. Items are hand-drawn and are provided on multiple layers for easy mixing and matching (check out how Sofia used the top from the De/konstrukt outfit with a tutu and created a completely different look). The hair that I am wearing in these photos is fantastic and is also sold at .:: MekaNoiZe Labs ::.. Be advised, though, it is sold separately AND is included in the Invader outfit (I didn’t realize this and now have two of each color). But, the texturing on this wig is phenomenal. I think I could wear this everyday, but it doesn’t really fit with my “everyday” wardrobe. So, don’t be surprised if you see me wandering the grid in cyberpunk fashions more often just so that I will have the opportunity to wear this hair! Some may find the prices to be a little out of their budget, but considering how exceptionally well-made the pieces are and the accessories included, I didn’t even bat an eye. Individual pieces are available and are reasonably priced. Be sure to visit .:: MekaNoiZe Labs ::. soon and while you are there, take a minute to look around the unique build and fly down to [Schema Oxymoron], a furniture store that features sleek, contemporary designs. I wonder if it might be time to do some redecorating? Style Sheet:All clothing by .:: MekaNoiZe Labs ::.White Outfit – MonokromBlack Outfit – De/konstrucktHair – Invader Cyberlox with Goggles in Silver and in BlackBoots – J’s Belt BootsSkin – Fleur Vivant Bronze Feline 3Piercing – Monroe Piercing by /Fuel/
The hair that I am wearing in these photos is fantastic and is also sold at .:: MekaNoiZe Labs ::.. Be advised, though, it is sold separately AND is included in the Invader outfit (I didn’t realize this and now have two of each color). But, the texturing on this wig is phenomenal. I think I could wear this everyday, but it doesn’t really fit with my “everyday” wardrobe. So, don’t be surprised if you see me wandering the grid in cyberpunk fashions more often just so that I will have the opportunity to wear this hair!
Some may find the prices to be a little out of their budget, but considering how exceptionally well-made the pieces are and the accessories included, I didn’t even bat an eye. Individual pieces are available and are reasonably priced.
Be sure to visit .:: MekaNoiZe Labs ::. soon and while you are there, take a minute to look around the unique build and fly down to [Schema Oxymoron], a furniture store that features sleek, contemporary designs. I wonder if it might be time to do some redecorating?
Style Sheet:All clothing by .:: MekaNoiZe Labs ::.White Outfit – MonokromBlack Outfit – De/konstrucktHair – Invader Cyberlox with Goggles in Silver and in BlackBoots – J’s Belt BootsSkin – Fleur Vivant Bronze Feline 3Piercing – Monroe Piercing by /Fuel/
Oh, sure, I could have paired the boots with DD’s new Determined coat (try the black coat with these boots and the bra and panties from Insolence’s Melanie in Red…hot, hot, hot!), but several other bloggers have done a great job photographing the DD’s newest release. Besides, I really wanted something a little more suitable for an evening of dancing with Guy. Since our favorite DJ, Jen Noel, let us know in advance that the theme for the night was Black and White, I started looking for something that would show off the boots, look great on the dancefloor, and still complete my edgy-couture-glam vision. I think it works, what do you think? I’m also trying on a new skin. This is Nemesis – Bronze Skin 03 by Beauty Avatar. I am huge fan of Ryker Beck, so when she posted these on her blog, I knew I had to run out and try them on. She has a great review of the entire Nemesis line, so be sure to check that out. Oh, and did I mention she is one of the sweetest, most generous girls I know? If not, it’s out there now. ::blows kisses to Ryker:: Style Sheet:Skirt: Digit Darkes Couture Separates-Half Tulle SkirtBodice and Tights: Last Call’s Delilah (part of outfit, no longer available)Boots: Drawmachine Overknees – BlackLashes: Minnu Model Skins Photoshoot LashesBracelet: +Plus *Wide Bangle in Silver*Bracelet: Armidi Gisaci Metallic Tres Bangles – SilverSkin: Beauty Avatar NEMESIS – Bronze Skin 03Hair: Maitreya – River II – Natural BlondEyes (full length): Dramavatar Eyes Dark 12Eyes (close up): Glanz Eyes mid:OceanBlue
Style Sheet:Skirt: Digit Darkes Couture Separates-Half Tulle SkirtBodice and Tights: Last Call’s Delilah (part of outfit, no longer available)Boots: Drawmachine Overknees – BlackLashes: Minnu Model Skins Photoshoot LashesBracelet: +Plus *Wide Bangle in Silver*Bracelet: Armidi Gisaci Metallic Tres Bangles – SilverSkin: Beauty Avatar NEMESIS – Bronze Skin 03Hair: Maitreya – River II – Natural BlondEyes (full length): Dramavatar Eyes Dark 12Eyes (close up): Glanz Eyes mid:OceanBlue
Having visited the seductively barren Chouchou sim before, I knew at once that this dress would photograph beautifully there. I wasn’t disappointed.Because the dress is so captivating in its composition and movement, I chose to keep my accessories simple.The dress does come with a pearl choker that is lovely, but I chose to wear black pearls to accentuate the smokiness of the gown itself.I chose a simple updo from ETD that had some volume to balance the width of the skirt. I also opted for the Diamond Bee Ring from Paper Couture that I am in love with and tend to wear with just about everything.Please click on the pictures for a larger version. You can also find more photos on my Flickr page.Style sheet:Skin: Fleur Vivant Bronze Feline 3Hair: ETD Holly – BlondeEyes: ~Glanz~ .::Eyes::. mid : FreshBlueNecklace and Earrings: Paper Couture p.c. Black Pearl SetRing: Paper Couture p.c. Diamond Bee RingDress: Chambre du Chocolat Smokey Tux Dress in GoldPoses: Boudoir Rouge Collection by Alexx Markova available at OPC Store
