The Dangers Of Demo Night

Every now and then, we have an event at PIN UPS called "Demo Night". The point is to pile on as much demo clothing, hair, skin, shoes, and accessories as you possibly can, and make a general fool out of yourself. Well tonight was just such a night.



After cleaning my inventory recently, I managed to delete almost every demo item that I had. So off I went tonight to grab some really great demos, with the biggest silly signs on them and the most insane items I could think of. Well, here we find the danger in "Demo Night". You pile on all this stuff, and then hang out in it for a good two hours, if not more, and you find yourself actually liking it on yourself. Not to say that I expected not to like it, just that the point was just to collect it, and not to end up shopping. It goes to show you that some addictions run deep.

I guess the point of this post, other then to show you how incredibly silly and fun (not to mention inexpensive) a "Demo Night" contest can be, is to say to those designers who do offer demos that their efforts do actually result in sales in the end. We know this with things like skin and hair, but for shoes and jewelry, and even clothing, it may mean a sale that you never anticipated, and likely once people see the quality of your work, a life-long customer. So even though it takes a lot of time and effort to provide them, I just wanted to say, thanks for the demos!

Shopping Details:
Hair - *Zero Style*, Maki (Strawberry Chocolate - Demo, M)[Big Sun Demo Label]
Skin - Laqroki, Jasmin 04 mily DEMO
Fairy Costume - Adam N Eve, Woodland Fae Costume (Green)[Includes Demo Wings]
Shoes - Adam N Eve, Serpenti (Very Purple)
Jewelry - KessKreations, Classic Stone Necklace & Stone Bracelet [Monarch Butterfly Labels]
Non-Demo Items:
Eyes - **[Riddle]**, Realistic Brights (Brown)
Lashes - [Detour], Love Lashes

Ruby Tuesday

On Tuesday night, my fella of 21 months Draco, celebrated his RL birthday. We started the evening at PIN UPS where DJ Azu was doing his thing for a "Best in Red" event, and ended up at another club dancing to some great Jazz and Standards. I decided to put together a sexy look in red so that I didn't have to change between events, and came up with this great Gertie Dress in Red from ~~Ivalde~~. Nef passes me some of her new releases from time to time, so when I finally get a change to take a look, I am always pleasantly surprised. I have to admit it, I am a girl who loves a system skirt, I just like a sleek silhouette, and when done well, they can be so lovely. This dress had a great system skirt, but also three-part ruffled prim hemline. I really love the satiny look of the skirt, and think that the added touch of the sheer straps and flexi scarves on the back are really lovely. This dress has a fabulous Latin feel to it, really sexy and classy at the same time. I wanted to keep it in a more retro framework, so I went with some seamed stockings from 1-800-Bettie's. The Stiletto Moody Elegant Slingbacks in Ruby were a good colour match, and added a bit of sparkle for a special night out.



When I wear a dress with details like the flowing scarves so close to the neck, I don't wear a necklace with it, it just seems like a lot of clutter to me. I opted instead for a big showy earring from (CREAMSHOP). The Glam Earring in Red is almost too big, but that is the fun of it, and I own them in three colours. Perhaps even more hysterical is that the size I am wearing is the medium, there is a large version as well. Some complimentary sleek Gold and Resin Bangles from [VG Republic] worked nicely here, as they are scripted to texture/colour change to compliment your look. The set comes with three versions, and I like to mix and match from wrist to wrist.



The Latin vibe of this dress made hair choice easy, this Milonga wig from le salon at comme il faut is so retro and classic, it really evokes a sexy Josephine Baker look. I wanted a glittery evening look with my skin, by didn't want a coloured lip, particularly not red that would likely clash with the coral red of the dress. The answer is this lovely Gold Glitter skin from Celestial Studios Charmed Line. I love wearing these skins for fancy dress occasions, one of the reasons I think Starley is such a huge talent. These Charmed skins are not the newest or most realistic on the grid, but I really love the look of them on my avatar, they have a more illustrated look as opposed to hyper-realistic, which has never been my style. Lashes are from Cake, and some of my favorite eyes are from Miriel.

Shopping Details:
Dress - ~~Ivalde~~, Gertie Red Dress
Hose - 1-800-Bettie's, Stocking by Bettie's (Taupe)
Shoes - Stiletto Moody, Elegant Slingbacks (Ruby Red)
Earrings - (CREAMSHOP), Glam Earrings (Red, M)
Bracelets - [VG Republic],Gold/Resin Bangles with Color Change
(L) Double Gold/Resin Bangles
(R) Skinny Gold/Resin Bangle
Ring - (Caroline's), Gimcrack Diamond Solitaire Ring
Hair - comme il faut, le salon - Milonga (Raven)
Skin - Celestial Studios, Charmed Line (Tone 20, Glitter -Gold 1 + body glitter)
Eyes - Miriel, Hazel Eyes (Big)
Lashes - Cake, Bedroom Lashes

Diamonds And Rust

I am really enjoying the colours of Fall at the moment, even though most of the leaves are off the tree in Toronto, I can still see them strewn across the lawn. It is pretty much my favorite time of the year, cool but not too cold, no snow to wade through or shovel, and the smell in the air is crisp and sugary. I wish the season lasted longer, but the colours can last in my closet all year long. This great Rainy Day Sweater in Rust from Celestial Studios was the starting point for this outfit. I have always loved this style of cowl neck sweater, but before sculpties it was pretty disastrous to move about in. Starley did well here, not only with the main collar, but in adding extra glitch covers at the shoulder so that even in motion, the sweater looks right. I really like this skirt from Cake's Autumn in Paris Outfit. The asymmetrical plaid skirt is full and really fashion forward. I am always looking for great skirts as separates, but rarely find them. I have way too many jeans and slacks in my inventory, but very few separate skirts. That would be tops on my request list for any interested designers in taking up the challenge. I went with a complimentary pair of tights from (CREAMSHOP).



I wanted to wear a great pair of boots that didn't steal the show, and these *REDGRAVE* Sculpties Boots in Smoke were the ones that did the trick. They have a gold accent to them, so I went with gold accessories. I wanted a nice long dangle earring with the open neckline of the sweater, and these *UnTone* Dragon Earrings are great, and come with a high prim and less primy version in the same box. The Tangled Antique Gold Bangles are from {JUNK}, I really like that they have some open areas so that you can see the colours of the sweater beneath. I took a ring from Diamonde. and tinted it a golden yellow to match the colours in this look a little better. I am not sure that it is still available, but the designer, Valena Glushenko is now designing under the Cachet umbrella at Glam World. I wanted another pop of fall colour, so I went with one of my favorite bags from *TaP*, now known as Fleur. This Heiress Handbag is great, and I really hope they still offer it, it is scripted to colour change with a click, and the shape of it and simplicity is refreshing.



With big statement earrings and a cowl neck sweater, I though a mid-length wig, with exposed ears would work best. The TRUTH Shirley 2 wig has all that, plus a little bit of funky edge, something I am always looking for. A bright red-lipped skin from Celestial Studios Charmed Line worked well here, along with eyes from Miriel and Lashes from Cake. Here's hoping Fall lasts a wee bit longer, I am not ready to wear a parka and shovel snow out of the driveway only to have it all come down again over night.

Shopping Details:
Sweater - Celestial Studios, (CS) Rainy Day Sweater (Rust)
Skirt - Cake, from Autumn in Paris Outfit (Black)
Tights - (CREAMSHOP), Plain Tights Set (Brown)
Boots - *REDGRAVE*, Smoke Leather Sculpties Boots
Bag - *TaP* (now Fleur), Heiress Handbag
Earrings - *UnTone*, Dragon Earring
Bracelet - {JUNK}, Tangled Antique Gold Bangles
Ring - Diamonde., The Gillian Ring (Tinted Gold)
Hair - TRUTH, Shirley 2 - Smokey
Skin - Celestial Studios, Charmed Line (Tone 20, Red-Chic)
Lashes - Cake, Bedroom Lashes
Eyes - Miriel, Hazel Eyes (Big)

Gold Rush

Another day, another chance to switch things up. When the event at PIN UPS called for best in yellow, I actually couldn't find anything for about ten minutes. It is clearly time to clean the clothing inventory up. The first thing I did hit, was this brilliant Chidori Coat from Bare Rose Tokyo. It comes in several colours in the box, and this chic coat has both a short version (pictured) as well as a long almost babydoll length version. It has really great sculpted shoulders and sleeves, but I am particularly smitten with the amazing collar and bow pieces. The sculpted rose is so lovely, and the bow ads a really nice contrast, and makes for a lovely focal point in this look. I tried to work with a monochromatic palette for the rest of the look, opting for warm brown tones in these {Gisaci} Brindisi Slacks in a luscious Mocha shade. The Ribbed Sweater under the jacket is from ~*LaLa, and was white, but being a modifiable item, tinted up nicely to a coffee colour.



I was thrilled to discover I had purchased the new (Shiny Things) Tuli Pumps in Brown. I was in such a shopping flurry on my last trip, I literally forgot what I had purchased, a good sign that enough is enough maybe. They are a really nice pump with a sweet bow on the toe, and they are scripted so the bow colour can be changed. I pulled in some more yellow with some Mustard Plain Tights from (CREAMSHOP), just for a little pop of colour to echo that of the jacket. A great Jaden Bag from Cachet was the perfect size and style for this warm fall look. The nice chunky Color Wood Bangles Trio are from M.R.M., with great scripting to change each individual bangle to one of about a dozen colours with just a click. Natural Gold Bead Ring is from (Caroline's), and hidden but fabulous Stud Earrings are from Sian Birke Jewelry.



If you haven't yet been to ETD to check out Elika's fabulous sale, may I ask why the heck not? This amazing Laine wig is part of the sale, as are all the other new releases as well as all hair, shoes, and purses. I love the casual messiness of this hair, with an attempt to make it somewhat polished with a headband. The band is scripted to colour change as well, but I choose to wear it in the dark charcoal colour so it was less obvious. A lovely natural hued make-up from Celestial Studios Charmed Line adds to the understated look I wanted here, with some great Splatter eyes from Big Booty Big Money to pick up on the yellow and warm brown tones. Love Lashes are from [Detour].

The golden yellows and warm browns of this look make it a fall favorite. The style of this amazing jacket from Bare Rose is classic and timeless, and the cost is unbelievable for the quality, versatility (two length options) and the number of different colours available in the same pack. Just another example of why you don't need a lot of "gold" to rush out and get something incredibly stylish and chic.

Shopping Details:
Coat - :::B@R:::, Chidori Coat (Yellow, Short Jacket)
Shirt - ~*LaLa:, Ribbed Sweater (White, Tinted)
Slacks - {Gisaci}, Brindisi Slacks (Mocha)
Socks - (CREAMSHOP), Plain Tights Set (Mustard)
Shoes - (Shiny Things), Tuli Pumps (Brown)
Purse - Cachet, Jaden Bag (Earth)
Bangles - M.R.M., Color Wood Bangle *Trio* (Right, M)
Earrings - Sian Birke Jewelry, Stud Earrings
Ring - (Caroline's), Natural Gold Bead Ring
Hair - ETD, Laine (Black)
Skin - Celestial Studios, Charmed Line (Tone 20, Earth-2)
Lashes - [Detour], Love Lashes
Eyes - BBBM, Watery Eyes, Mud (Splatter)

The Eyes Have It

Anju Enoch of *Petit Ange* released some truly amazing eyes this week. She IMd me early this week to ask if I would take a look and tell her what I thought. As I tried on pair after pair, I was struck by their beauty and the lovely jewel like quality. The colour combinations in the *an* Cleareyes are magical, I wanted to show them off in the best way I know how, by using a completely greyscale backdrop. They come in three sets, all with a lovely mix of colour options. Each set of 5 shades is just $200LaLas each. The three sets are pictured below, for specific colours, see the detailed list at the bottom of the post.

*Petit Ange* Cleareyes - Set 01



*Petit Ange* Cleareyes - Set 02



*Petit Ange* Cleareyes - Set 03



Each Pack of Eyes comes with Regular and Bright white versions. I am wearing the Bright versions in all of the pictures above, but this is a direct comparison of the two. You can see that the Regular version has a more realistic white, with some shading and colouring. The Regular is on the left, with the Bright version on the left side.



Some really lovely and unique eyes, which are particularly suited to Neko or Gothic looks. Check them out at the *Petit Ange* Mainstore, also available at the Retrology location.

1. *an* cleareyes_bicolor_purple_green_Bright
2. *an* cleareyes_bicolor_yellow_pink_Bright
3. *an* cleareyes_olive_green_Bright
4. *an* cleareyes_purple_sky_Bright
5. *an* cleareyes_warm_ashgrey_Bright

6. *an* cleareyes_blue_peacock_Bright
7. *an* cleareyes_dark_coolgrey_Bright
8. *an* cleareyes_maroon_Bright
9. *an* cleareyes_purple_black_Bright
10. *an* cleareyes_taupe_Bright

11. *an* cleareyes_bicolor_blue_green_Bright
12. *an* cleareyes_bicolor_green_brown_Bright
13. *an* cleareyes_bicolor_orange_purple_Bright
14. *an* cleareyes_bicolor_purple_grey_Bright
15. *an* cleareyes_yellow_orange_Bright

Other Details:
Hair - [Aden], Skin - Celestial Studios, Lashes - [Detour]

Here In Black And White

Sometimes, things can be very clear, right and wrong are as different as black and white. But most of the time, we hover in those middle shades of grey, those murky areas where there is no clear answer. It's hard to know what to do when the answers are not clear, when you need to tread carefully, so as not to offend and not judge too quickly. I have been hovering in that grey area for a while, and I thought it was time to let the shades of grey be reflected in my Look Of The Day. I started with this fabulous Celestial Studios Charmed Line skin in the 00 Tone, it is a startlingly beautiful skin, particularly this Black Smoke make-up. You almost feel as if you have stepped off the silver screen from some old black and white movie, but there is a lovely glow about this skin that goes beyond mere black and white. I love this short Edie pixie cut from [Aden], it is a lovely cut that really accents the jawline, very feminine and classic. These amazing AYN Lashes are from [the oBscene], I think there are stunning, and there were so many amazing pairs to choose from, lashes are one extravagance I can't seem to resist. I wanted to go with a grey eye, and this past week sweet Anju Enoch of *Petit Ange* passed me her latest eye creations and asked me to have a look. These warm_ashgrey eyes are my favorite, but more details on these amazing eyes will follow in a separate post.



I was looking through my new items folders for a great top to wear, and stumbled upon this amazing Empire Top from (PixelDolls), a past group gift. I think it is pretty spectacular, and if I know (PixelDolls), there are likely half a dozen other great colour versions available in store. I urge you all to join the (PixelDolls) Subscribe-O-Matic group, the free gifts come in faster then you can wear them, the quality is always exceptional. I felt a little exposed at the throat, and have been waiting for the perfect opportunity to wear this phenomenal +Japancakes+ Wild Petal Scarf, and this was it. It is a lovely sculpted piece, and is scripted to texture change with a click, with dozens of lovely colour options. It is really a statement piece, and works well an open neckline and short or up-do hair style. A simple pair of basic black slacks, these from the now closed *LAST CALL are a nice addition, any pair of basic black slacks would work well here.



This past week, I received an amazingly delightful surprise, fatpacks of all the new shoe releases from REDGRAVE. I know Anessa put in a good word for me, and the first pair I tried on were these stunning and mysteriously named Winter Boots in Black. I couldn't make it two feet from my front porch in winter in them, but they are a lovely sexy heel and buttoned legwarmer combination. A pair of delicate and beautiful Nouveau Earrings from (Miriel) soften the drama of this look. I love that any jewelry purchase from (Miriel) feels like a custom order, the vendors are scripted to allow you to choose options like metal colour, stone colour, and whether you want a transfer versus copy version of the item. For a single colour accent, I went with this great Rock Bag in Green from Cachet. I had no idea it was so large when I picked it up at the shop, but it is a really stylish modern bag, that adds a little chic to this look. The Black Pearl & Silver Cuff is a favorite from Frangipani Designs, as is my (Caroline's) Gimcrack Diamond Solitaire Ring. I really love this look, and think I may stay in the middle grey are for just a little bit longer today.

Shopping Details:
Top - (PixelDolls), Empire Top (Black) [Past Group Gift]
Pants - *LAST CALL: Ingrid Pants, low-waisted [From Set, No Longer Available]
Scarf - +Japancakes+, Wild Petal Scarf
Shoes - REDGRAVE, Winter Boots (Black)[Review Copy]
Bag - Cachet, Rock Bag (Green)
Earrings - (Miriel), Nouveau Earrings - Black/Jet
Ring - (Caroline's), Gimcrack Diamond Solitaire Ring
Bracelet - Frangipani Designs, Black Pearl & Silver Cuff
Hair - [Aden], Edie (Black)
Skin - Celestial Studios, Charmed Line (Tone 00, Black-Smoke)
Lashes - [the oBscene], Lashes - AYM - Tintable
Eyes - Petit Ange, *an* Cleareyes_warm_ashgrey_Bright

The Sweater Dress Song

One of the gems I picked up at the :bijou: preview was this simple, understated, yet elegant Refrain Knitdress in Night shades. I was really surprised to find it among the ultra-hip newness at :bijou: all set for the opening of the bijouholic SIM on the 11th of this month. A classic body skimming dress, with really nice trim details, almost a pearlized crocodile edging on the neckline and hem. I must admit I didn't even notice that detail until I had it on, but it really is a nice touch. The dress comes in several colour variations, but I felt this grey scale version had the best. With the almost pink colour of the trim, it opened the door to do something I rarely do, mix browns and greys together. I added a simple system layer belt from *Thimbles*, to add a little interest at the waist. The Mr. Belt is really great to wear over long tops or dresses, as it comes on the jacket layer and worked well here as the :bijou: dress which comes with all layer options. Some nice basic hosiery from **Battered Boudoir** smooths the transition from hem to boot.



Unlike my sister Anessa, the shoe queen of Phil's Place, I have to save my pennies to get the footwear I love. I had been meaning to head over to Maitreya for over a week to get closer look at the new releases, but after getting this dress, I really made a point of going, and this pair of SoHo Boots in Ice Suede were the perfect compliment, the billowy suede of the upper boot is a nice contrast to the sleek skirt. I headed over to check out Kess Kreations for the first time this week, after seeing her work at the Jewelry Expo, I wanted to see more. Kess is incredibly talented in so many types of media, but when I saw this Wooden Bead Jewelry Set i though it was really something. It is scripted so that the stone change colour, making it really versatile. I am wearing the necklace and earrings, but it also comes with a great matching bracelet. I really like natural looking jewelry, something organic in a pixelated place. A great basic black Boulevard handbag from a past Paper Couture collection, as well as my Gimcrack Diamond Ring from (Caroline's) round out the accessories.



After seeing it on the feeds, I had to indulge in this Ruby wig from TRUTH. It is a really cute up do, with a colour scripted bow. TRUTH's recent makeover has me a little confused, and I was rather miffed that the colour packs have changed. I really loved that the black and white shades were put together, since I wear both colours almost exclusively. I still love the hair, and it is still a reasonably priced wig, but will likely buy a bit less of it now that it means having to buy two packs instead of one to get the shades I love. Another new-to-me skin that I nabbed during the Celestial Studios sale, the Charmed Line's Earth 3 make-up, just really pretty and classic. Lashes are from [Detour], and eyes from Karamia. So back into the closet I go to find out what else may be hiding in there, may the inventory g-ds be good to me.

Shopping Details:
Dress - :bijou:, Refrain Knitdress [Night]
Belt - *Thimbles*, Mr. Belt
Hose - **Battered Boudoir**, Boudoir Legs Soft (Tan)
Boots - Maitreya, SoHo Boots (Ice Suede)
Bag - Paper Couture, P.C., The Boulevard Bag (Noir)
Necklace, Earrings - *KK*, Wooden Bead Jewelry Set [Scripted]
Bracelet - Bonita's, Black & Pearl 4 ~ #3
Ring - (Caroline's), Gimcrack Diamond Solitaire Ring
Hair - TRUTH, Ruby (Ivory)
Skin - Celestial Studios, Charmed Line (Tone 20, Earth-3)
Lashes - [Detour], Love Lashes
Eyes - -KM-, Hazel Eyes

.-*-. HANG THE DJ! .-*-. @ The Starlust Hunt!

I normally don't show off my own wares on my blog, but since these are the free gifts I placed out at the Starlust - Floyd, Lloyd, Horst, & Polly Jean SIM Hunt, I decided it was OK.

Whipped These Up just for the Hunt! 4 Unisex Rockin' Tees For Yas, Enjoy!









This is one for the ladies that I gave out in a previous hunt, and never remembered to put out for sale. So in case you missed it last time, the Rock Me Dress is waiting for you hunters too!



Remember to Get Your Hunt on for the fabulous free gifts and dollarbies from dozens of amazingly lusty content creators. Look for the trash (what else) strewn across the 4 SIMS, and touch or buy to get the goodies inside. Mine will be close-ish to my .-*-. Hang The DJ! .-*-. Venus Fly Trap Plant Shop... Happy Hunting!

~ Ketsy

I Can Sing A Rainbow...

Things you should know about my blog, I never edit my indoor or outdoor shots. I don't adjust colours, blend seams, or hide imperfections. What you see is what you get, basically. I have a pretty old graphics card, I don't see windlight features. I don't have a fancy studio, I have a three sided box with a floor that I made myself, I set it to full bright, and I edit the colour of the background to work with the clothes I am wearing. I don't play with the advanced sky menu, I just slide to the time of day lighting that looks best, and then I snap away. I basically crop, or cut out my images to slide into a three-shot collage. I take high-resolution bmp pictures, then save as high-resolution jpegs. Outdoor pictures are just cropped. The only added effect is a outline of the picture. Very basic, yet for me the best option I can think of for fast shoots. I have a Tillie's Posing Stand in my skybox that currently has 933 poses in it. I do not own a full copy of Photoshop, I use Photoshop Elements, and for me it serves it's purpose. Anyone can do what I do, it's really easy, and I think sometimes simple is best. The real trick, is putting together a great look. That can sometimes take me upwards of half an hour, embarrassing but true, and it is mainly because I am spoiled for choice since I have so much new to wear in my inventory, my shopping outpaces my ability to ever wear it all.



I love colour, and this look of the day is no exception. The reason this look, in my opinion, sidesteps the gaudy overdone colour trap, is that it is anchored with simple black accessories and a basic Classic Loose Tank from Armidi Everyday. The almost fluorescent Green Overdyed Jeans from Celestial Studios are an absolute scene stealing pair, the cuff options on all of Starley's pants are great, you can wear them the way you prefer, skinny, boot, or wide cuffed. Speaking of Celestial Studios, if you have ever wanted to pick up some great skins, this is the time. Yesterday I picked up the last 10 I was missing from my all time favorite Charmed Line skins. At just $500LaLas a pop, it was the perfect opportunity to complete my set, and this amazing Purple - Eggplant make-up is one I have been drooling over for ages. It added a great complimentary colour to the green, so I went with some Purple Alpaca Armwarmers from Argyle as well.



On to accessories, and a brilliant Casual Purse I nabbed at the ETD sale going on now. Unless I was misreading the prices, everything is one sale, and it is all priced at unbelievable low cost. I think many items, like shoes and purses, were less then $50LaLas. Get out to ETD before the sale ends, endure the lag, it is more then worth it. The great Orange Butterfly Necklace, which serves to balance out the one-sided ponytail, is from *i-Candy*. I love the triple strand, and the ties in the back, really great detail there. The Triple Hoop Blet! (not a misspelling) is from ~First Flower~, the shine worked well with the -Tesla- 'Diva' Heels in Black, and it is a great added element at the waist. Spike Bands from WRONG give the look a little edge, along with some great Oldskool tattoos from TRUTH. A Nose Stud from Tickled Pink, and great Tunnel Multi Set Earrings from Drifting Sands finish off my fancy pants accents.

So getting back to my point about not editing my shots. This amazing hair from :bijou:, called Rene, was one I picked up at the preview of the new bijouholic SIM. It officially opens on November 11th, but I was lucky to be added to the access list for the brief preview window. I really love this style, the side ponytail, and the twisted ropes of hair across the back pf the wig, the swept bangs are nice too. The texture and shine is really well done. You will see some grey streaks across my face and to the side of the ponytail, those are the ends of the prims, and they are less visible on the lighter colours and in general, when I don't have my full facelight on. I could likely go in and try to edit them to make them transparent, but they really didn't bother me enough to not say how great this one style is and show it to you. I think it is pretty great, and so are the new releases in-store. I picked up a pile of amazing while there, I hope to share some of it soon. Eyes are from Karamia, and lashes are from [Detour].

Shopping Details:
Top - Armidi Limited, Classic Loose Tank (White)
Pants - (CS), Overdyed Jeans (Green, Bootcut Legs)
Armwarmers - Argyle, Alpaca Knit Armwarmers (Cool Pack, Purple)
Belt - ~First Flower~, Triple Hoop Blet!(Belt) Black Pelvis
Shoes - -Tesla-, Diva Heels (Black)
Purse - ETD Accessories, Casual Purse (Black & White)
Arm Bands - WRONG, Spike Band (Black)
Necklace - *i-Candy*, Butterfly Nicklace (Orange)
Earrings - Drifting Sands, Tunnel Multi Set Ear Piercing
Nose Stud - Tickled Pink, *Uma Nose Stud
Tattoos - TRUTH, OLDSKOOL TATTOO (BACK & FRONT)
Hair - :bijou: Hair, [Rene]/Monotone01
Skin - Celestial Studio, Charmed Line (Tone 20, Purple-Eggplant)
Lashes - [Detour], Love Lashes
Eyes - -KM-, Hazel Eyes

Back To School...

Last night, I was positively crackling with anxiety and hope, watching the US Presidential Election returns. I am not American, but as a Canadian, a part of a country that is the largest trading partner with the US, and an allied country, this election was as important to me as any that I have known in my own country. I am proud of the energy and hope that I saw in the Democratic process south of the border, and I am inspired. There is no doubt that the battle has just begun for the US and the world, rebuilding financial stability and looking for peaceful resolutions to our differences. We all need to go back to the books, to learn lessons from the past and find hope for the future as we begin to tackle the challenges in our collective path. Saving the environment, ending war, and bringing health and stability into the lives of the most vulnerable in society. I know that my views may not be popular with everyone, there is a healthy dose of socialism in our Canadian Constitution, and I am not ashamed of it (though my father heartily disagrees). I respect the rights of others to differ in their beliefs and values, but we are, after all, in this together. So I am hopeful that the future will bring new ideas and new solutions, and though there will be setbacks, I feel that the tide has turned for the first time in my adult life. Clearly, I am no speech maker, and should stick to the pretty pixels I blog day in and day out, but I just felt the need to express myself, I hope you will afford me this luxury.



Back to the business of stroking my addiction to virtual fashion, this was the look I put together while anxiously awaiting last nights results. I wanted to be comfortable, ready for action, and ready to learn what might be. I went for casual and grunge, my personal favorite way to dress day-to-day. The look started with the great .:Naive:. Rebel Condition Pants that have a very cool burnt out look to them. I pulled in one of the great tops to be found at the new shop *Sprawl*, this wicked Hearts and Guitars Tee, which comes on all layers as always with Pushbutton Skolnick's work, and is one of the most appreciated features. I love being able to wear tucked in tops and work with layers. The Pink Leather Jacket from ::DUTCH TOUCH:: worked really well here with the colour of the stripes in the pants, I love open jackets that let you see the details of the items underneath. The slacks extend to mid-calf, so I pulled on these great Maitreya **Boot-alicious** Ash boots with a leg-warmer like calf portion, they worked really nicely here. I love to wear my WRONG Braces, or suspenders, when I remember to. This Checkerboard set is my favorite, and comes with a non-prim jacket layer set as well as this great prim set that works with dozens of pairs of jeans and pants.



I pulled in a great Tote Bag from Gritty Kitty, it is scripted to change to one of several brilliant textures with just a click. love the little hanging key chain and the buttons on the bag, so I decided to pull in a few more pins with this Eclectic Accessories Kitten and Skull Badge set. The chunky Double Bangle is one of a huge and inexpensive fatpack from ::MEZZO::, with about a dozen colour variations in the pack. I am really embracing the hat and hair combos lately, and this is one of the best yet, the Panache ZF and Kari collaboration produced this great Girls School Hair, also available in a men's version. The cute little braids sticking out from underneath the side of the hat are really sweet. A favorite skin from Celestial Studios, eyes from Miriel, and lashes from [Detour] complete the essentials.

Shopping Details:
Jacket - ::DUTCH TOUCH::, Pink Leather Jacket
Top - *Sprawl*, Hearts & Guitars Tee
Pants - .:Naive:., Rebel Condition Pants (Grey)
Suspenders - WRONG, Braces (Checker Board, Prim)
Boots - Maitreya, **Boot-alicious**, Ash Leather (Grey-Black Socks)
Bag - Gritty Kitty, Tote Bag (B)
Bangle - ::MEZZO::, M-Double Bangle Rameacryl*Silvergray
Buttons - E!, Eclectic Accessories, Kitten and Skull Badge
Hair/Hat - Panache ZF & Kari, Girls School Hair
Skin - Celestial Studios, Charmed Line (Tone 20, Gloss-Red)
Lashes - [Detour], Love Lashes
Eyes - Miriel, Hazel Eyes (Big)

Warm Wishes For A Dear Friend

This past weekend, I attended the NexCore show featuring the designs of my friend Neferia Abel. I have always marveled at Nef's endless creativity, her boundless seeming energy, her ability to juggle a busy family, a job, and her phenomenal creations for ~~Ivalde~~. I used to ask her when she found time to sleep. Today, Nef announced on her Blog that she was taking a break from Phil's Place for a while, at least a month. After working so tirelessly in the last month to launch two collections as well as a number of other items, and participating in a number of Halloween hunts, including the one I organized on Retrology, she has reached her limit. Nef it seems is human after all, she has a repetitive strain injury, Carpal Tunnel in her wrist, and what I can only imagine as a wrist raw from rubbing on her desk as she mouses about. Though her mind will not rest, her body must, and she will be very much missed by the many people who adore her.



Immediately after the NexCore show, I headed over to ~~Ivalde~~ to get a closer look at her newest releases, a real departure from much of her previous work, Nef has upped the ante significantly with her amazing Boutique Line. A modern and sophisticated turn for Nef, something very modern, yet with more then a touch of classic detailing. This amazing Viella look is so plush. Crafted in a texture that resembles white crocodile, it includes the sculpted hood, scarf,a sculpted dress, as well as a pair of matching gloves and tights. It looks like a hand knit creation to me, soft and warm, something you might wear to a skating party or to a winter ski retreat.



I pulled on a great chunky pair of equally warming Asuka Boots from Lassitude & Ennui in a complimentary Coal colour. I like the way the size and style of these boots really compliment the look of Nef's outfit. With so much going on in the dress, I am wearing only my (Caroline's) Gimcrack Diamond Solitaire Ring. I really like the way it looks over the crocodile gloves.



I needed a sleek wig to work under the amazing sculpted hood, and found this great two-toned Evette wig from Here Comes Trouble. The almost sullen look of Canimal Zephyr's Essence Skins, here in the Rose make-up, echoes my mood after finding out Nef will be away for a while. Luminous jewel like Hazel Eyes from Miriel and [Detour] Love Lashes.

I will miss you sweet generous Nef, heal fast, rest up, and come back when you are ready. I, along with all your other admirers, friends, and patrons will be awaiting your return.

Shopping Details:
Outfit - ~~Ivalde~~, (Includes Hood, Scarf, Dress, Gloves, Tights)
Boots - Lassitude & Ennui, Asuka Boots (Coal)
Ring - (Caroline's), Gimcrack Diamond Solitaire Ring
Hair - Here Comes Trouble, Exclusive Pack 1 - Evette (small, et2p)
Skin - Canimal, Essence (Grace)... of Roses
Lashes - [Detour], Love Lashes
Eyes - Miriel, Hazel Eyes (Big)

Vain Inc. Magazine - November 2008, Issue #15

As the Look of the Month Editor for Vain Inc. Magazine, I try to put together a great look and shoot each month. This is my contribution to the November Issue, #15. I think it is my best so far, I styled the look and took all the shots myself, with no post-editing at all other then cropping and adding text. I am really pleased with them. Pick up your issue in-world, or check it out Online.









A big thanks to LeeZu Baxter for sending me a Review Copy of this luscious gown, it is too stunning!



I also somehow landed on the cover. Thanks to Nyla Rossini for asking me to be a part of the shoot! Love to all my Vain Inc. fellow staffers!

~ Ketsy

Edit~ Lack of sleep and a rush to post made me misspell the name of the month. *slaps forehead*. Sorry if I pop back to the top of the feeds, as a perfectionist, I simply couldn't let that one go. Apologies.

Getting It Down On Paper

I knew that once Paper Couture released a new collection, it would be all over the feeds in minutes, and I also knew I would be there to check it out withing hours of it's release. It's the way things seem to go on the feeds, everyone wants to show off the latest and greatest, and it's great to see the clothes on avatars, it gives us a much better idea of how they look then an image on a rack. I think the new collection is far more wearable then the last, and the jewelry is spectacular. As an avid collector of purses, I await their release, hopefully soon. Last collection, I snapped up a lot of the releases, and sadly they still sit in my inventory, unworn. This time I was really careful with my selections, as money grows tight and I am more realistic about what I can actually get around to wearing. I purchased one dress, one pantsuit, and about five pieces of jewelry. I wanted items I loved, but I wanted items I could work as separates too, and the Nightingale outfit was my first choice. I love this Silk Top, a long camisole that comes as part of the set. I think the hand painted ruffle down the front is great, so I opted to wear it apart from the rest of the outfit this time.



I knew that wearing the Silk Top alone would look to bare for this time of year, so I went looking for a Bolero, and came up with this one from Ibizarre, part of the Soroya Jumpsuit set. A really nice texture on it, and the wrap look lends itself well to a brooch closure. This (Dahlinks) Classic Diamond Studded Bow Brooch in Silver is a lovely piece, really incredibly well made, and so very like ones in my mother's jewelry box. I think the brooch is one piece of jewelry we see little of in-world, and I love finding them, they are such a versatile accessory. I wanted to wear a classic pair of slacks, and these Blaze* Highwaist Jeans in Charcoal are a great option.



I pulled on a favorite pair of suede Nichelle Pumps in Black from Lya, absolutely love the shape of these shoes. I also pulled in a nicely textured Black Velour Clutch from *Muism*. I went with silver and black earrings from *kraftika, the No. 127 Earrings in Silver. (Caroline's) Gimcrack Diamond Solitaire Ring is always a favorite stunner.

Hair is the new Yvette style from ETD, a nice casual up-do with exposed ears, so it works nicely with earrings. This is one of the new Mia skins from [RockBerry], I really love the full lips on these skins. Hazel Eyes are from Miriel, and Love Lashes are from [Detour].

One thing that makes Paper Couture really desirable is that they do retire styles, which is not usual in-world. Most people sell the same things year after year, season after season. It lends an air of urgency to shopping at Paper Couture, get it before it disappears. Instead of a bigger build to house all the designs from past seasons, they maintain a boutique feel, while still offering reasonably priced and imaginative high-concept collections. The clothes are like collectible pieces of art, season after season, and worth a look even if there is nothing that tickles your fancy.

Shopping Details:
Bolero Sweater - Ibizarre, from Soraya Jumpsuit (Black)
Silk Camisole - Paper Couture, from Nightengale Outfit (Silk Top)
Slacks - Blaze*, Highwaist Jeans (Charcoal)
Shoes - Lya, Nichelle Pumps (Black)
Bag - *Muism*, Clutch, Black Velour (Right Hand)
Brooch - (Dahlinks), Classic Diamond Studded Bow Broock (Silver)
Ring - (Caroline's), Gimcrack Diamond Solitaire Ring
Earrings - *kraftika, No. 127 Earrings (Silver)
Hair - ETD, Yvette (Black)
Skin - [RockBerry], Mia F Light
Eyes - Miriel, Hazel Eyes (Big)
Lashes - [Detour], Love Lashes