In The Trenches.

There is nothing more exciting then discovering forgotten purchases in your inventory. Six months away from SL has made this a new trend for me. I may be showing items that have been available in-world for a long time, but they are just as good now as ever, and maybe more-so, they may remind you of some of the hidden gems you haven't worn since last season. This AOHARU Simple Trench Coat is a perfect example. I pulled it on, and just adore the almost gunmetal steel blue color of it, it got me working to pull a great look together around it.



I picked up a great black shirt at Surf Couture yesterday, and decided to add a dash of something new, it is the "I'm A Little Bit Country" top, which comes in too many great colors, but I chose the black one on a whim. I pulled on the amazing (Kari & TW) Black New School Jeans, and a simple pair of stockings from Petit Ange in Black. Both wardrobe staples for me. When I went looking for boots, I was thrilled to find these ETD Shoes Kristen Booties in an almost perfectly matched color to the Trench Coat. Instead of going with a necklace, I opted for this amazing *Sprawl* Dotty Scarf, just a nice detail, and scripted for color change. I heart me some *Sprawl*.



Pulling in some other accessories, I went with a great bag from Baiastice, a ring with scripted color change stone from (Luc) Fashion Jewelry, and a fabulous watch from (Caroline's). The (Caroline's) Jewelry Rock Candy Watch has 3 band color options, including a hot pink, three metal options, and the ability to turn brightness on and off. It actually functions, the hands turning and ticking through the hours. I really love the way it looks on, and it is jazzy enough to be a great bracelet substitute.

Another wig I loved at first sight has been waiting for me to wear since the Hair Fair. Sari's Hanami Dreads come in a beaded and un-beaded version, I chose the plain version this time. It is adorable, not too crazy big, and I love the loose dreads, so funky. The skin is a favorite from -AnaLu-, the lashes are Lelutka's Thora Lashes, and the eyes are the brilliant but no longer available Miriel. So now I am back to rediscovering what is actually hiding in my giant *NEW* folder, and you never know what I am going to come up with next. Back to the trenches folks.

Shopping Details:
Coat – AOHARU_BT_Simple Trench Coat (Gray)
Shirt – [SC] Surf Couture, I’m A Little Bit Country (Nighttime)
Jeans – (Kari & TW), New School Jeans (Black)
Scarf – *Sprawl*, Dotty Scarf (Scripted Color Change)
Socks – *an* Petit Ange, knit_tights_black_socks
Shoes – ETD Shoes, Kristen Bootie (Steel Blue)
Bag – Baiastice by Sissy Pesoa, Borsa 21 (Hand)
Watch – (Caroline’s), Rock Candy Watch (Scripted)
Ring – -EARTHTONES- now (luc), Solitaire Ring Multi/Silver
Hair – Saris’s, Hanami Dreads Black (Plain)
Skin – -AnaLu- *InRainbows* Nat13 .brownish.
Eyes – Miriel, Realistic Eyes (Muted Hazel)[No Longer Available]
Lashes – MMS/Lelutka, Thora Lashes

Golden Years [Ivalde/L'Abel Day Post 3/4]

It has been amazing watching Neferia Abel's skill and range grow over the two plus years that I have known her. She has gone from making reproductions, to branching out and making "inspired" looks. She looks at the fashion of a particular era, seems to be able to distill the flavor of that time period down, and then make a look that is not only classic and familiar, but also timeless and unique. This ~~Ivalde~~ Ranka Gold Dress is a perfect example. It has the flavor of the sixties, but is also incredibly trendy and fresh. I adore that Nef includes stocking with so many of her looks, as she does with this look. The details are also spectacular, look closely at the tiny round buttons on the back of the collar, things that she could have easily skipped and would have gone unnoticed, but her inclusion of them just makes the outfit all the more perfect.



I pulled in some adorable ETD boots, and a bag from [gisele] to round out the look. Accessories includes a great Bangle from [Armidi Gisaci] and a ring from (Caroline's). Hair is by TRUTH, with skin by -AnaLu-. I just think this look is perfection, great for any party occasion, or a day of shopping in the city.

This look makes me smile, largely because it makes me see Nef's talents in a new way. These are truly her golden years, she is now producing on a whole new creative level. She has gone beyond mere reproductions and has become an entirely different sort of content creator, creating what is new and innovative, catering to her customer base, and making herself happy in the process. Nef has always struck me as a wonder woman of sorts. She is a mother of six, a devoted wife to her amazing husband Brumm, her RL work has been in a caring and often selfless vocation, and she is unfailingly generous with her time and talents. I have seen so many pictures of her family, including her dog, that I have lost count. I have spoken to her about the pressures of owning a SIM and managing a SL business, and we have shared our love stories. We live in entirely opposite time zones, so we rarely got a chance to get together, but when we did catch each other, our conversations would go on for upwards of an hour, and cover all manner of topics, always ending with hugs and kisses and "I love you". She calls me her "Ketzmin", and she is my Nefmin, my dear Nef.

Shopping Details:
Dress - ~~Ivalde~~, Ranka Gold Dress
Shoes - ETD, Kristin Booties (Natural)
Bag - [gisele], bag/maman ecru (front)
Bangle - [Armidi Gisaci], (Left) Healing Giraffe Bangle - Brown
Ring - (Caroline's), Natural Gold Bead Ring
Hair - TRUTH, Linda - Black & Whites (Night)
Skin - -AnaLu-, *InRainbows* NAT13 .brownish.
Lashes - MMS (Now LeLutka), Thora Lashes
Eye - Miriel, Standard Eyes - Sunlit Tree

Love At First Sight [Ivalde/L'Abel Day Post 1/4]

When trying to decide how to tell my story of my love for Neferia Abel and her work, I decided I needed to start at the beginning, with the very first gown I purchased. According to my inventory, I purchased this in March of 2007, and I must say I had never seen anything like ~~Ivalde~~ when I first set eyes on the shop.

I was busy working at PIN UPS nightclub, then only two months in business, and we were looking for vendors for the upper gallery of the club. As always seems to be the case, it was my sister Anessa who grabbed me the moment I logged that day saying, "You have to come here and see this store, OMG you won't believe these clothes, all vintage!". I jumped on her TP and discovered myself in the midst of a large wooden shop, with huge panels covered in vendors, on a Norweigan SIM with a fishing village outside the door. I think the next twenty minutes were a blur, as I purchased at least ten outfits that day. But I remember my first, as most women do, and it is still so very special to me. This is the Janette Orchid Dress by then brand ~~Embla~~.



Within the week, Anessa had managed to get Nef to take a spot in our club, and so began a love affair that involved a lot of me shopping while DJing as my tips rolled in (I kid you not). When I really first met and spoke to Neferia, there was a joy and mutual respect instantly, a common love of fashion and things from the past. She is a most astonishing woman, and I have said to her more then once, "Do you sleep?". This dress holds a particularly special place in my heart, as I wore it on one of my first dates with Draco, when we went to Phat Cats and danced the night away, this is also the exact Celestial Studios skin and ETD hair that I wore that night. The Lya shoes and the stunning *KessKreations* jewelry are new, but looks perfect with this dress. A girl never forgets her first true love.

Shopping Details:
Gown - ~~Embla~~ (Now IVALDE), Janette Orchid Dress [Purchased March 2007]
Shoes - Lya, Nichelle Pumps (Pearl)
Jewelry Set - *KessKreations*, AnnMarie White Pearl Jewelry Set
Hair - ETD, Couture Collection, The Unique (Maroon)
Skin - Celestial Studios, Charmed Line (Tone 20, Earth 4)
Lashes - MMS (Now LeLutka), Thora Lashes
Eyes - Miriel, Standard Eyes - Sunlit Tree

Back To Black

Today is one of the hardest days I have had in so very long. Heartbreak is never easy, and no one seems to be able to escape the feelings of loss, anger, sadness, loneliness, and hurt that comes with risking your heart. I risked my heart, after being destroyed by a relationship in the past, and after two years of what I though was the best thing in my life, I am alone again. I can't deny the feelings in my heart, I don't know how long I will feel this way, but I am so very lost. It's hard when you still are in love with someone, someone who was your best friend and who you knew was your soul mate, and see them move in another direction, whatever the reason. Today I am mourning the loss of what could have been, for I had let myself dream of the future, and all those dreams are now dead. I wore this dress this past weekend, when I acted as a fill in DJ for a UVogue Fashion Show featuring Stiletto Moody shoes and LeeZu fashion designs, among others.



This dress was in my inventory, and I threw it on for the event, the LeeZu Betty Flexi Dress in Black is a very sexy number indeed, more so then I anticipated, so I slipped a lovely Black Sheer Desire camisole from **Battered Boudoir** on underneath to make it more modest for a daytime event. The shoes are Stiletto Moody Pinup Pumps in the Patent Color Set, with colour change versatility that I always find helps when pulling together a look in a hurry.

As I was DJing, I didn't need a handbag, so I went with some great jewelry looks. Starting with a simple pair of Claris Black Pearl Earrings from ~Muse~. The necklace is also in Black Pearls, from *kraftika, No.129, as is the Black Pearl Bauble Flower Ring from Caroline's Jewelry. I also grabbed a pair of spectacular Jujubes Gem Antique Silver Bangles from ~*Freah Baked Goods*~, with colour scripted gems set to Black Onyx.



Hair is a simple loose pulled back look from ETD, the beautifully sculpted Yvette style in Black, one of Elika's newer styles, and so nicely textured. The skin is -AnaLu- *inRainbows*, natural complexion, and a neutral toned make-up with subdued .greyish. shadow. Hazel Eyes are from Miriel, and Thora Lashes are from MMS (now LeLutka).

I know I will be OK, eventually, right now all I know is I need time. I have dear friends, I have close family, and I know that time heals all wounds. I have to get over the anger, the disappointment, the hurt of a broken heart, but I know that there is no other path for me. I simply have to move on and come back to being OK with myself, find my strength, and find my way out of the very dark place I now find myself in.

Shopping Details:
Dress - LeeZu, Betty Flexi Dress/Black
Camisole - Battered Boudoir, Sheer Desire Black Top
Shoes - Stiletto Moody, Pinup Pump (Patent Color Set)
Necklace - *kraftika, No.129, Black Pearls
Earrings - ~Muse~, Claris Black Pearl Earrings in Silver
Bracelets - ~*Fresh Baked Goods*~, Jujubes Gem Antique Silver Bangle
Ring - Caroline's Jewelry, Black Pearl Bauble Flower Ring
Hair - ETD, Yvette - Naturals I Pack (Black)
Skin - -AnaLu-, *InRainbows* NAT08 .greyish.
Lashes - MMS (now LeLutka), Thora Lashes
Eyes - Miriel, Hazel Eyes (Big)

A Certain Shade of Green

It's no secret that green is my favorite colour, it is my mother's favorite too. I was visiting my parents yesterday and went out into their amazing backyard, complete with Koi Pond and Waterfall, Fairy Garden, fruit trees, and an amazing array of wildlife. While there, I saw some colourful birds working away at the feeders, a groundhog scuttling across the lawn, and several fat green frogs sitting on the rocks beside the Koi Pond, catching all those annoying mosquitoes. The frogs are pretty spectacular, brilliant green and it gives me hope that we haven't entirely destroyed the environment as of yet. My parents live just north of Toronto, still in a busy Suburb full of the urban sprawl that is taking over and leaving less green space and more animals homeless. They live in close proximity to a creek, and I think that is where their many visitors are coming from, this includes a pesky mink that ate more the half my fathers expensive huge Koi fish last year, and wild rabbits that have made a home under the deck. Not to mention a pair of Racoons that regularly visit in the night. Green is the colour of that backyard right now, and it is so nice to see after the long Canadian winter. Green makes me feel like that new grass, the leaves on the trees, reborn in a sense. When I wear it, I am happy.



I loved this DP*yumyum Candy Pop top in Green the minute I saw it, it comes with three options for the prim attachment part, this is the longest, and can be a perfectly sweet mini-dress, but I decided to pair it with some spectacular Zaara: Jewelled Jeans in Indigo. Speaking of which, Zaara: is having a sale as we speak, it lasts till June 1st, so get shopping! The shoes are the adorable ETD Heel-Strap Platforms in Emerald, I picked them up for s song at the last ETD sale, the Leather Bag is from Pampered Princess, in this great golden Honey colour.



I was waiting for a chance to wear this amazing Pansy Stained Glass Windows Necklace from *Wallflowers*, I picked it up at the last Jewelry Expo, organized by Miriel Enfield. The bracelets are by ~*Fresh Baked Goods*~, absolute favorite for their customizable gems, the Sculpted Sugar Gem Bangle Set in Gold. I am also wearing a ring by the darling Kesseret Steeplechase from *KessKreations*, the Antonia Ring is also scripted so that you can select the metal and gem colours.

On to essentials, and this essentially brilliant Felicity style from ETD, a soft and beautifully romantic wig, with a really lovely single shoulder sweep. The skin, complete with lovely green eye shadow is another -AnaLu- *InRainbows* skin mod, I am simply in love with them, in case it has escaped notice. Hazel eyes are from Miriel, and lashes are the Thora set from MMS (now LeLutka).

Here's hoping I see many more green things, especially those frogs in that certain shade of green, all summer long and for many many years to come. I hope you see many things of green in your summers too, and find the happiness that nature can bring, It really is such a centering thing, to be out in the grass and hear the water splash over the rocks, and hear the birds sing, and know that there is something beyond the computer screen that is worth seeing and saving.

Shopping Details:
Dress - DP*yumyum, Candy Pop (Green)
Jeans - Zaara:, Jeans {jewelled}, Indigo (Straight Leg Version)
Bag - [PP], Leather Purse (Honey)
Shoes - ETD Shoes, Heel-Strap Platforms {Emerald}
Bracelets - ~*Fresh Baked Goods*~, Sculpted Sugar Gem Bangle Set - Gold
Necklace - *Wallflowers*, Stained Glass Windows Necklace & Earring Set (Pan)
Ring - *KessKreations*, Antonia RH Ring
Hair - ETD, Felicity - Blacks Pack (Smoke)
Skin - -AnaLu-, *InRainbows* NAT06 .Bgreen.
Lashes - MMS (now LeLutka), Thora Lashes
Eyes - Miriel, Hazel Eyes (Big)

The Roaring 20s - Vain Inc. Magazine Issue 20

This month, Vain Inc. took a trip through time, and I did my best to bring the fashion of the 1920s alive. Fabulous dresses from ~Ivalde~, Cartunno Couture, Greenwood Designs, Adam N Eve, Rebel Hope Designs, & Simone. Hats, wigs, and shoes to suit the style of the era.



Check out the full Issue HERE.











Click the images to see larger versions with credits on my Flickr Stream.

Cry Me A River...

Sometimes you just need to have a good cry. It's so hard to get the face of an avatar to express emotion. Sure you can get an Emoter HUD, an often passed about full perms item, but it has a limited range of mostly comical expressions. It is often the skill of the pose maker, the lighting, the angle of the eyes that allow the appearance of emotion. Then often some post processing, be it Photo Shop, or a similar graphics program, is often the way we add emotion to our in-world snapshots.



But what if you want a straight screen shot, are unable to post edit, or need to express sadness in an in-world event, drama, or show. This is where the remarkable Kala Bijoux of Material Squirrel has given me yet another reason to adore her. Her new Real Tears scripted attachments can give you the look of tears without any post-processing. The unit attaches to the face, and if you click on it you can customize the look of your tears (highlight transparent items is helpful to find it and adjust it's position).



Whether tinting the teardrops, adjusting the number of drops, or the speed that the drops fall, it is a really interesting and unique wearable, and I was thrilled when Kala dropped some review copies on me this week. There is also a version that cries bloody tears, for all the Vampire roll-players who might enjoy for some really dramatic flair. The tears come in male, female, and child avatar sized versions, and there are 2 attachment points for the female sized version so that you can wear your favorite lashes at the same time. For the Photo Shop phobics, like myself, it is a really great item to add some drama to your pictures. Give then a try if you want to add a little emotion to your Second Life. It's alright to cry, crying gets the sad out of you.

Shopping Details:
Tears - Material Squirrel, Real Tears by Kala Bijoux (Female AV Size - Chin)
Hair - ETD, Chel (Naturals I, Black)
Skin - -AnaLu-, *In Rainbows* NAT13 .brownish.
Eyes - Miriel, Hazel Eyes (Big)
Lashes - MMS, Thora Lashes (Now LeLutka)

I Am The Best Smelling Woman In SL®!

I get a lot of review copies dropped on me, and lately, since all my messages have been getting capped, I sometimes don't know for sure who has sent me something. I am not always certain what is a review item, and what is a gift from a friend. When I saw the title of this item in my "Objects" folder, I was simply too curious to let it go, Belice No. 5 it was labled, I rezzed it on the living room floor to have a look.



I have heard about perfume in Second Life®, and I must say, it always has struck me as beyond silly. I think about pixelated food in a similar way, but we eat with our eyes and other senses, not merely taste, so I can suspend reality long enough to toast in the New Year with a flute of bubbly champers. A decorative item also holds value in SL®, from the art we put on our walls, to the knickknacks we line our virtual bookshelves with. I can see a pretty prim make-up case or perfume decanter, I understand the appeal of beautiful things in our living space. But a perfume in a place where the sense of smell is not required and frankly sometimes a blessing (who hasn't worn the same outfit for a week or more), it just doesn't make much sense to me (pun intended).



So here I am, with this review copy of a virtual scent, and it has me giggling and scratching my head, and cracking jokes, but I figured I really should try it before I get to far ahead of myself. I mean, maybe it's really tongue in cheek, maybe we are meant to be in on the joke, maybe it is precisely the thing I have been looking for all of my Second Life®. So there in the folder is the wearable version of Belice No. 5, and I Right-click and wear it, as well as the HUD attachment. The HUD removes my AO, but who needs to walk sexy when you smell great! Immediately I am surrounded by a poof of little flowers, and there on my HUD, a sleek purple bottle.



A little script chat pops up on the screen, telling me that I am "Now spraying every 45 seconds". That seems rather often to me, but as I don't wear perfume in RL, I may just be out of the loop. A click on the HUD brings up the dialog box with lots of lovely options. Target: interesting enough, I can "emote" perfume at a selected avatar, that will be very handy in a crowd. Scale: This has something to do with the HUD, so I ignore it as usual. Graphics: The ability to turn the poofer spray on or off, well, why would I want to turn it off? Emotes: The ability to turn the text emotes on or off. Why would you want to turn off something that tells people how great you smell? Private: You can turn all the emotes to private IM, so as not to alert others to how great you smell, seems to defy the point, but a nice option all the same.



I decide to wear it as packaged, and not fiddle with the settings. I am immediately aware of the green object chat emanating from my person. The first thing it tells me? BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< An air of seductiveness surrounds Jhuzen ><><><. Well what do you know, I do have an air of seductiveness surrounding me! But the real test, as you all know, is whether others find me as seductive as I find myself. I approach my man, who is blissfully unaware of my seductiveness, as he lies on the couch.



Bam! Here we go, what will he say, will he notice immediately? No response. Oh right, he is getting some dinner. So I wait. The screen fills with little flowers and messages about my amazing sensuality.

[21:31] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< Jhuzen's perfume carries a hint of warmth to Draco ><><><
[21:31] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< The innocently swirling currents of rosewood and pine merge ><><><
[21:32] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< A perfume full of seductiveness carries the scent of rosewood innocently through the air ><><><
[21:33] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< The warmth of Jhuzen's perfume suits her perfectly ><><><
[21:34] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< The scent of rosewood conveys a note of seductiveness ><><><
[21:34] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< Jhuzen's perfume carries a suggestion of warmth ><><><



I figure there is no use standing around waiting for his return, I might as well cuddle up close.

[21:35] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< Jhuzen's perfume carries seductiveness towards Draco ><><><
[21:36] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< The innocent scent of rosewood drifts around Jhuzen ><><><
[21:37] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< Draco can smell rosewood, combined with pine and cloves ><><><
[21:37] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< The aroma of rosewood spreads tenderly till it reaches Draco ><><><
[21:38] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< Draco can smell rosewood ><><><
[21:39] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< Jhuzen's seductiveness is carried to Draco by the breeze ><><><
[21:40] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< A fragrance of rosewood, pine and cloves drifts towards Draco ><><><
[21:40] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< Jhuzen's scent is heavy with warmth ><><><
[21:41] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< The warmth of Jhuzen's perfume suits her perfectly ><><><
[21:42] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< The innocent scent of rosewood surrounds Jhuzen and Draco ><><><
[21:43] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< Jhuzen's perfume exudes seductiveness all around her ><><><
[21:43] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< The aroma of rosewood spreads tenderly through the room ><><><
[21:44] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< Jhuzen's perfume carries seductiveness towards Draco ><><><
[21:45] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< A perfume full of seductiveness carries the scent of rosewood innocently through the air ><><><
[21:46] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< Jhuzen's perfume smells of rosewood ><><><
[21:46] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< The scent of rosewood conveys a note of seductiveness ><><><



Well, finally my man returns, and we discuss the rapid fire chat assault from my scent and the dizzying poofs of flowers around my avatar. It is a bit much, but I know it is modifiable through the HUD, so I think that is a personal preference really, how aware do you want others to be of your presence?

[22:11] Jhuzen Ketsugo: ok
[22:11] Jhuzen Ketsugo: go shower
[22:11] Draco Tatsu: you sure?
[22:11] Jhuzen Ketsugo: yes
[22:12] Jhuzen Ketsugo: it's ok
[22:12] Jhuzen Ketsugo: go hunny
[22:12] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< Jhuzen's perfume carries seductiveness towards Draco ><><><
[22:12] Jhuzen Ketsugo: I will exude seductiveness on your afk avatar
[22:13] Jhuzen Ketsugo: hunny
[22:13] Jhuzen Ketsugo: come on
[22:13] Jhuzen Ketsugo: that was funny
[22:13] Draco Tatsu: lol
[22:13] Draco Tatsu: yes
[22:13] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< A fragrance of rosewood, pine and cloves wafts tenderly through the air ><><><
[22:13] Jhuzen Ketsugo: I am wafting tenderly
[22:13] Draco Tatsu: yes, yes you are
[22:13] Draco Tatsu: now that you mention it
[22:14] BeliceNo5_wearable whispers: ><><>< Jhuzen's seductiveness is carried to Draco by the breeze ><><><
[22:14] Jhuzen Ketsugo: is there a breeze in here?
[22:15] Draco Tatsu: i may have left a window ajar
[22:15] Jhuzen Ketsugo: I thought so
[22:15] Jhuzen Ketsugo: for it is carrying my scent!
[22:16] Draco Tatsu: yes, i smell rosewood, pine and... hmmm... is that cloves too?
[22:17] Jhuzen Ketsugo: I think it is
[22:18] Draco Tatsu: i thought so



It made for a cute little exchange, but really, I don't think I am hooked on virtual "scent". The box is cute for display, it rings in at a lovely 14 prims, the bottle is 7 prims on it's own. So if you want a great little conversation piece for your dresser ladies, I can say it is a lovely little item of frivolity. It is a novelty piece, and it is pretty hysterical, for about 10 minutes really. It amuses the same way heel clicks did when they were first introduced to SL®, some people love them still, most people treated them as a fad and moved on to the next. The literature included with the set is also humorous, and seems to be very serious in tone, but I think that is to be expected when one makes an investment of this scale. Yes, Belice No. 5 is an investment. Available in-world HERE or on XStreet SL for a purse-stretching $1500 Linden® Dollars, it is definitely not an impulse buy or gag item, but would be perfect for the person that is impossible to shop for because they already have everything.

Would I buy this item myself, I think you can safely bet not, but it is just not my thing really. I think it would be an interesting experiment to wear it out in public, see how many times you might get muted or asked to leave nightclubs, or what kind of comment you can net from innocent bystanders. But it was good for a laugh, and isn't that the whole point of Second Life®? I think the developer and designer of Belice No. 5 would agree, and I did contact Omm Dufaux before blogging this item, to be sure it was sent as a review copy by him. It was indeed, and I did let him know I planned to blog it in a cheeky manner. I do admire the creativity, the scripting, the design of the physical box and bottle, and the interest in feedback in the form of reviews. That says something about Omm, and I can respect someone that has an idea and follows it through to completion. If I listen to my bottle of Belice No. 5, I am the best smelling woman in all of Second Life®. I dare you to prove otherwise!

Other Credits:
Hair - ETD, AI - Short Bob - AVEDA Noir (Closed Temporarily)
Skin - -AnaLu- SKIN *near future* 2, Splendor (mod) by Ana Lutetia (Available Soon!)
Eyes - Freak Fantasia, Glassy Mustard Green
Lashes - [Detour], Love Lashes
Shirt - /artilleri/, beatrix *pink*
Pants - /artilleri/, betsy pants *darkblue*
Shoes - ETD, Starley Pumps (Pink)
Ring - Caroline's Jewelry, Gimcrack Diamond Solitaire Ring
Bracelets - ~*Fresh Baked Goods*~, Gem Jelly Donut Bangle - Silver (L) & Sculptured Sugar Silver Gem Bangle (R)

I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues

Sometimes, when I am putting together a "Look Of The Day" for my blog, things just seem to come together almost organically. Other times, not so much. When I try to really work a mash-up, I try to think outside the 'folder' so to speak, taking things that normally would not occur to me, and reworking them. I occasionally have some success with this exercise, other times, it just turns out all wrong. This look has literally been sitting in a draft form since November of last year when I wore it, I just wasn't completely certain I was happy with it. I love all the individual parts, I love most of it, but I am not sure it it works as one look, and that was holding me back a bit. Afraid of being judged for a less then stellar post, I was my own editor, and held back. Today, I decided that the exercise itself was interesting, and that I should just go for it and accept that I am not perfect. This look may be a mistake in someone's eyes, and maybe that is a good thing to reveal, that even those that are known for doing it 'right' occasionally are unsure if they have.



This look started with the need to craft a look based in the colour blue for an event at PIN UPS. I started the way I always do, typing the word "blue" into search, and seeing what comes up. The first thing I hit on was a dress from *DP Serendipity, the Amenohini_Odekake dress. I had forgotten about it, like so many other things I own, and when I threw it on realized it had some blue in it, but was not exactly what I had imagined. I liked it though, well enough to try to work with the top of the dress and see what I could do with it. The striped top is from the dress, which is adorable and as you can see, versatile. It is actually strapless, the tiny straps you see are part of it, so I wanted something more to cover my arms, but it had to be on the undershirt layer. I have no idea how I aquired it, but was lucky to find a Leotard Set from (PixelDolls), it was likely a freebie at some point, and this one was in pink, but tinted up beautifully to an almost exact match to the blue. Joy! I went with a high-waisted Pencil Skirt from Ingenue, here in a lovely Aubergine, making use of the jacket layer for the upper part of the skirt. I get all excited seeing the possibilities of layers, what can I say. I pulled in more blue with some [MG Fashion] socks, and tied it all down with some great ETD Shoes ankle boots.



I was dying to wear this great huge Statement Necklace from Paper Couture, so may have rushed it a bit, but it was too fabulous to resist really. It is one of the parts that has me scratching my head as to it's success in this look. Some big stacked bangles from .+*aya V.*+., which I modded slightly to match, a basic hoop earring, and my engagement ring round out my accessories. I have to say that this Jaden Bag from Cachet is a favorite of mine, I own it in two colour variations, and just love the shape and shading/texturing of it.

I admit I got away from the "blue" intentions of the look, so made a save with this huge-tastic hair from Pudge:. Bowie's in Space in a great Blue Black shade is a big, lopsided pile of love. The lovely porcelain-like skin is from [RockBerry], eyes are Freak Fantasia, while Lashes hail from Celestial Studios. Feel free to let me know whether this look is a hit or a miss for you, I am still on the fence. But I think a little glimpse into the process of creating a mash-up, a willingness to make mistakes, and the guts to put it out there for public scrutiny (or as public as things get on my little blog here) is a good thing.

Shopping Details:
Top - *DP Serendipity, Amenohini_Odekake (Blue, Top From Dress)
Blouse - (PixelDolls), Leotard Set, Longleeve (Pink) [Undershirt Layer, Tinted]
Skirt - Ingenue, Vintage Basics: The Pencil Skirt ~ Aubergine
Socks - [MG Fashion], Knitted Socks - Purple Blue
Shoes - ETD Shoes, T-Strap Ankle Booties (Eggplant)
Purse - Cachet, Jaden Bag (Red)
Necklace - P.C., Tumbled Stone Set, Statement Necklace
Bracelet - .+*aya V*+., Gold Bracelet
Earrings - P.C., Basic Hoop Earring [Previous Season In-Store Gift]
Ring - Caroline's Jewelry, Gimcrack Diamond Solitaire Ring
Hair - Pudge:, Bowie's in Space (Blue Black)
Skin - [RockBerry], Mia F Light
Lashes - Celestial Studios, Classic 10
Eyes - Freak Fantasia, Glassy Mustard Green Eyes

Same Damn Thing?

I didn't think I would do it, I had heard about the "Same Damn Thing" Blogger challenge, and I am not really a blogger of any consequence, so I figured no one would notice if I participated or not. That, coupled with the fact that I was certain I didn't actually own the shirt in question, the {Gisaci} Cambridge Shirt, and I am still on my 'no shopping' debt reduction diet, I figured I was going to be sitting this one out. But when I logged tonight, I decided for the heck of it, search my inventory for "Cambridge", and lo and behold, there it was. I had forgotten buying it, I last visited Armidi with my sister Anessa when she stuffed a wad of bills in my hands and said, "buy something, it'll make you happy!". And so I did, so she would stop pestering me with teleports to Armidi.



What was intriguing to me about this challenge is that what it all comes down to is diversity. We can all blog the same thing, and we can all make it look like it is our own. I am not saying that people want to see every fashion blog on the feed displaying the same item, but rather even if it happens by coincidence that several people can wear the same item and make it look fresh and different. I am no stylist, I have no training other then years of reading fashion magazines and at best an eye for putting a look together for myself. This is how I felt like wearing my shirt, and I think it is pretty in line with any other look I have crafted over time.



I guess I am now waiting for the SL Secret over on Shopping Cart Disco taking a stab at those of us who participated in Achariya's challenge, and I am prepared to take the hit. When I started blogging, it was not for an audience, I didn't even know the feed existed till weeks later, and I wasn't on the feed for a few months after that. It was a journal about my own virtual wardrobe, and it was frankly a way to justify the massive amount of money I was spending building my inventory into the monster it now is. That doesn't mean I am not fully aware that people read my blog on occasion, or that I don't feel a certain sense of responsibility for representing things honestly and accurately. It means that even though my blog may be consumed by a few other individuals, it does not mean I have given over the right to decide how I use it, what I use it for, and it does not excuse me from owning the content I post. I have opened myself up a bit by allowing people into my hectic life, I share things about myself, and that is the risk you take when you put yourself out there for others to see. But it does not give other people the right to be cruel or rude, or dictate how I spend my time. And so if I choose to blog entirely discontinued items, or previously blogged freebies, or items that are considered out of fashion, then I will be the one to take responsibility for the way I am perceived thereafter.



I guess the only "Same Damn Thing" I will see on the feeds from this point on is a lot of individuals, using their own time to do something that gives them pleasure in a manner that does not infringe upon the rights of others in any way. A worthwhile lesson I hope everyone has the good sense, humility, decency, and humanity to accept.

Shopping Details:
Shirt - {Gisaci}, Cambridge Cuffed Shirt - Aufren Black
Belt - caLLie cLine, fat belt - blood red 1
Pants - :: DUTCH TOUCH ::, Jeans Low Waist Skinny Light
Boots - - TESLA -, Hylda Boot *Scarlet*
Necklace - Cat's Eye, Beads Necklace [Freebie]
Cuff - ETD, Leather Ring Wristband (Crimson)
Ring - Caroline's Jewelry, Gimcrack Diamond Solitaire Ring
Hair - PE, Pyxis Jet Black
Skin - /artilleri/, Emi skin - Soft Sunkiss - Masumi
Lashes - Cake, Separated Lashes - Tintable
Eyes - Freak Fantasia, Glassy Mustard Green

Come Together

We call ourselves a community, us bloggers and Plurkers and content creators and consumers who run in the same circles. We get caught up in silly drama, and get all worked up over things that no one else can understand. We are an insular group to some extent, those of us who consume the fashion feeds on a daily basis, looking for something that makes our hearts beat faster, and we love to create new heroes, and some might even enjoy pulling others from their pedestals. Sometimes we take ourselves too seriously, other times we laugh at ourselves, or we should. But every now and again, we remember that we have a power to reach out to others and make amazing things happen. This is one of those times when we as a community can make a huge difference in someone's life, not their second life, their first life, and I am hoping we can.



I didn't know Shir Dryke, or her shop Ornamental Life, until very recently. Over the holidays, I was sent some gift cards by friends, and off I went to discover new-to-me joy. I do love Shir's designs, and was happy to add some pieces to my wardrobe, but I have been out of the blogging habit lately and hadn't gotten a chance to show it all off. But I decided today I needed to help get the word out about how great a person Shir is, and how happy I am to be able to use my blog to do it. I really only met Shir through Plurk, a little habit we all have developed lately, it is a way to get to know people in a hurry and learn about them in ways you never imagined. Shir is funny, sweet, and talented, and she is a pleasure to know better. But Shir is also a pretty spectacular woman for the battle she has been fighting unbeknownst to most of us.

Shir has some serious health problems, and although I am not privy to all the details, nor feel the need to expose them, I do know that she is in a financial crisis and requires a heart transplant that may save just her life. For more details you can contact her friend Flutter Memel, who along with AnnaH Whitfield, Dove Swanson, and Annyka Bekkers have established a charity fundraiser campaign to help raise a very specific and relatively small amount of money to most of us, in order to help Shir afford the cost of this essential surgical procedure. Fellow blogger Dot Lane gives us all more information on her Blog. The Heart of Love fundraiser is running now and time is limited, so I urge you to stop by Ornamental Life and shop, give a donation, and make a difference that could literally keep Shir with us where she belongs.

Hart Larrson of PXL Creations has released a special skin that you can purchase with all proceeds going directly to the Heart of Love fund for Shir, and as you can see, it is really stunning. It comes in freckled and non-freckled versions, with three different brow colour options. I am also wearing tops from Ornamental Life, so you can see some of Shir's great work. The green halter top is called Proteus Machine in Watermelons, and the sexy sweater vest is Shir's Eve top in For You I Was a Flame. There will be more news on how you can get involved as a designer or content creator soon, and how you can shop with purpose if you are an addict like myself. Let's see what we can accomplish when we all come together!

Details:
Skin - [PXL], Linda_LT_DeepEyes_WineLips_BlackEB - Special Charity Edition
Sweater Vest - Ornamental Life, Eve (For You I Was A Flame)
Green Halter - Ornamental Life, Proteus Machine, Watermelons

Jeans - Total Betty, *College Bound* JEANS, Dark Blue
Shoes - ETD, Hampton Wedge (Lucky Green, St. Patrick's Day Freebie)
Ring - Caroline's Jewelry, Gimcrack Diamond Solitaire Ring
Hair - ETD, Eva II (White Burnt)
Eyes - Freak Fantasia, Glassy Mustard Green Eyes
Lashes - Cake, Bedroom Lashes

Arabian Nights

I don't wear silks often, really they are just reserved for the events at PIN UPS, but I have to say that finding modest silks is a real challenge. They are not meant to cover very much, I realize this of course. I see so many sets of silks where they are all prim parts, and nothing is left to the imagination once someone starts dancing. It makes finding silks a whole challenge for me, because I want the coverage, for me it is a chance to dress up, not show off the goods. I have found a couple of great silks designers that are conscious of the fact that some women are looking for coverage, and I think that Solange/The Silk Raven is one of those places. I have many sets of silks from *TSR*, and they are relatively up there in price range, but the colour options, quality, and variations in each costume are well worth it.



One of my favorite sets is this amazing Kadin set by *TSR*. The Blue and Silver version was my choice, but it comes in a dozen great colours and has a gold accented version as well. All these looks come from the same purchase. It comes with a system top, a full pant or thong type bottom layer that actually covers your bits, and then 4 different 'skirt' styles. The four include the short and long hip scarf options, as well as the short and long prim skirts. The vest is optional, but the work on it is exceptional, I just love the look of the back of it, the texture is exceptional, and the seems line up so well, you really do get what you pay for in this set. It also includes the lovely face veil and the beaded circlet on the forehead. Really very sexy, and still covering me enough that I feel comfortable wearing them to an event at the club.



I opted to layer on the Jewelry here, going for the lavish harem girl look full throttle, and went with this adorable Pure Butterfly Bellyring and Necklace from Caithlin Carter Designs. The fine prim work is really well done, and they are lovely feminine pieces. Ephemeral Creations Jangle Bangles in Steel stacked up nicely on my wrists, some great thin stacks of bangles and they also come in so many great colour options. I pulled on some stunning rings, the Catherine Black Pearl Cocktail Ring in Platinum from ~Muse~ is a particular favorite, I am a sucker for dark Tahitian pearls in RL as well. Also wearing my Caroline's Jewelry Gimcrack Diamond Solitaire Ring.



This Tiana wig is one of Elika's newer releases from ETD, simply lovely and soft and feminine, I think it has to be one of my favorites. I thought it worked really well with the veil here, really a great romantic look. I played up my eyes, opting for [Detour]'s Delta Eyes in Blue which seem stunning here. The skin is a lovely Megan Skin from [Rockberry].

Just my take on how to do silks for the modest girls among us. I love to play dress up, and finding ways to bring fantasy looks like this into my wardrobe is what I love best about my virtual life. I think it can be said that the vest from this top would look stunning over a black blouse, and I can see it working in other looks as well, which is always a plus when you invest in one outfit as costume specific as most silks are.

Shopping Details:
Silks Costume - *TSR* Kadin in Blue/Silver
Jewelry Set - CCD (Caithlin Carter Designs), Pure - Butterfly (Bellyring, Necklace)
Bangles - Ephemeral Creations, Jangle Bangle (Steel)
Ring - Caroline's Jewelry, GImcrack Diamond Solitaire Ring
Ring - ~Muse~, Catherine Black Pearl Cocktail Ring, Platinum
Hair - ETD, Tiana (Black)
Skin - [RockBerry], Megan C Natural
Eyes - [Detour], Delta Eyes (Blue)

Leaving On A Jetplane

When I recently DJd for the re-opening of the Avatrait Gallery, I wanted to wear something classy, but not too formal, edgy and unique, but still tasteful. I tried to remember what new things I had that would fit the bill, and discovered this great Jetset dress in Tokyo from :bijou:. It includes two skirt versions, system and prim, bur I threw the folder on so fast I got both, and decided I really liked the way they looked together. This dress really re-minds me of a black silk dress I wore to s special event when I was about 17 years old, to this day I refuse to allow my mother to give it away, almost 20 years later, it is still a favorite, even though it no longer fits. The dress has a great system layer belt, with accentuates the waist, and adds interest, but also gave me the cute to go with brown and gold accessories. I really love the big flared bell sleeves too.



I kept with the winter season look by adding a pair of **Battered Boudoir** hose, I love the different colours and options in Eloria LeShelle's hosiery. Any Canadian woman would never go out in the winter without hose or tights under a dress, so I naturally work it in-world too. The shoe solution that seems to be endlessly wearable are the Maitreya ChiChi Pumps in Black, with the colour change rims, here I chose gold. I pulled in a big clutch from *Muism* to add a little glam to the look. I went with wooden and brown accessories, and normally would not put black and brown together, but I think it really works here. The Polished Wood Hoop Earrings are one of Paper Couture's newest releases, they are really nice looking. I love this Luc Jewelry Ganesha Necklace , but I am enchanted by Hinduism in general, and the length was perfect with the neckline of the dress. My ring is from Caroline's Jewelry.



Diving into my hair folder, I wanted and edgy short style, and settled on the ETD Aveda Short Crop 2 in Silver. The skin is from Celestial Studios, another favorite make-up, and I always come back to my Celestial Charmed Line Skins whenever I want to look like myself again. Lashes are from [Detour], with eyes from Freak Fantasia.

This is definitely a jet set look, and one that can work in semi-formal situation. It stands out without be too glitzy, and most importantly, made me feel comfortable and stylish at the same time. It's really interesting to re-discover my wardrobe, including the many hundreds of things I have never worn before.

Shopping Details:
Dress - :bijou:, Jetset [Tokyo]
Stockings - **Battered Boudoir**, Boudoir Legs - Delicate (Black)
Bag - *Muism*, Clutch (Gold Shined)
Shoes - Maitreya, ChiChi Pumps - Black
Earrings - Paper Couture, P.C., Polished Wood Hoop Earrings
Necklace - -EARTHTONES- (Now Luc Jewelry), Ganesha Dual Necklace (Gold)
Ring - (Caroline's), Gimcrack Diamond Solitaire Ring
Hair - ETD, Aveda, Short Crop 2 Ad-Silver
Skin - (CS), Charmed Line (Tone 20, Earth-3)
Lashes - [Detour], Love Lashes
Eyes - Freak Fantasia, Glassy Mustard Green Eyes

Hazy Shade Of Winter

On cold winter days, I love to layer up and head out of doors before I get cabin fever. While I was winterizing the Retrology SIM, this was the outfit I threw together, starting with this adorable and cozy short parka from **DP yumyum**. Called simply the Hood Jacket, I choose this amazing Gray version because it was such a soft and warm looking option. The soft fluffy marabou trim on the hood and edge is really luxurious and photographs beautifully, something that can be difficult with transparent textures. I didn't realize till just this moment that my arms is through the jacket in the first pose, but I have been under the weather, so I have an excuse for such a bonehead mistake. Speaking of bone, the amazing horn/bone closures on the jacket are so well done and textured. There is so much detail here, and none of it superfluous or wasted. I needed a simple layer under the jacket, so I wore one of my own Key Hole Thermal tops from Hang The DJ!. Yes I made it, and I love it, and I usually don't blog my own stuff, but I have had a heck of a time finding basic thermals that come with a tucked options instead of jacket only, and I make all my stuff on all layers, so it worked here. Still on my shopping diet, I went with what I had. Dark Rinse Jeans from Tres Blah! literally sit at the top of my jeans folder which is sorted alphabetically, so they get worn a lot, but since they are such a brilliant hand-painted jean, I am happy to know what I can grab up fast.



I added in some very simply accessories in this look, starting with a basic pair of must-have Stud Earrings from Sian Birke Jewelry. It may seem like a no-brainer, but I have been looking for basic studs for almost 18 months, and this pair is completely scripted to change gem and metal colours, which makes them indispensable. Wearing my engagement ring from (Caroline's), one of my favorite things, just makes me feel warm inside. The Tote bag was a great find at [Sweetest Good-bye*], I love basic casual bags with little kitsch details, and this was an inexpensive and really workable piece. Last but certainly not least, these awesome Heather Boots in Black from ETD Shoes. You have to grab up at least one pair before Elika's sale ends towards the end of the month, they were just $30Lalas, and they come in a short and longer boot option. The just look so soft and cozy, and work perfectly here.



Speaking of favorites, probably my favorite short style in all of the two years I have been in-world is the ..Marlys.. Slim Pixie wig, here in the Licorice colour. It just really love how the angle of my jaw are complimented by the lines of the cut, the small tufts of hair tousled and plucky. Skin is from Celestial Studios Charmed Line, with eyes from Freak Fantasia and lashes by [Detour]. Not a high-fashion look by any means, rather a "My" fashion look that makes me feel a little warmer when the world gets cold.

Shopping Details:
Jacket - **DP**, Hood Jacket (Gray)
Thermal - Hang The DJ!, Key Hole Thermal (Back in Black)
Jeans - Tres Blah, Dark Rinse Jeans
Boots - ETD Shoes, Heather Boots (Black)
Bag - [SG*], Totebag
Earrings - Sian Birke Jewelry, Stud Earrings
Ring - Caroline's Jewelry, Gimcrack Diamond Solitaire Ring
Hair - ..Marlys.., Slim Pixie Hair (Licorice)
Skin - Celestial Studios, Charmed Line (Tone 20, Red-Dusk)
Eyes - Freak Fantasia, Glassy Mustard Green
Lashes - [Detour], Love Lashes

Leather And Lace

(PixelDolls) has been a long time favorite of mine, when they completely re-focused the shop, selling limited editions of the old stock off, I was anxious to see what new and exciting things would come out of Port Seraphin. The Anticipation outfit was one of my first purchases from the new releases, and is probably still my favorite. I consists of a cream lace blouse, a black wrap sweater, and leather slacks. There are endless layer possibilities, which I always love, so you can wear pieces separately, something every budget conscious shopper should look for. It also comes with a sweet necklace, which I opted not to wear, but it is perfectly lovely. (PixelDolls) continues to create some incredible work, and it is worth it to be in the Subscribe-O-Matic group, as almost every new release offers a free group gift as a sample of their fine work.



I chose to go with one of the last things I purchased before my "Shopping Diet", these amazing ETD Kristin Booties in a lovely Natural bone colour. I thought that cream coloured shoe would add some interest and echo the colour of the blouse nicely. To be sure they 'popped', I slipped into some basic black tights from (CREAMSHOP). A Ruffled Handbag from Urid Dal is a nice classic compliment. A very special necklace from (Caroline's) adds some nice interest at the neckline, the length worked well with the v-neck sweater. (Caroline's) Special Cameo Locket in Gold is scripted so that you can place a precious picture texture inside it, making it really personal and special. A great chunky Diamond Encrusted Square Curt Amethyst Ring from Paper Couture also pics up on the heirloom feel of many elements in the look. I pulled on a Vintage Basic Bangle and Earrings from Luc Jewelry, formerly -EARTHTONES-.



Hair is a stunning Burnt tipped White shade from ETD, the Roxie wig. I am really moving towards shorter styles a lot lately, they feel really fresh, and they have so much more style potential then a lot of long wigs. ETD does some of the best I have seen. Skin is Canimal Essence of Pinup, a real favorite, I love the lip shade. Eyes are from **[Riddle]**, and Love Lashes are from [Detour].
All together a nice put together look with little effort and lots of impact.

Shopping Details:
Outfit - (PixelDolls), Anticipation (Leather pants, Lace Top, Sweater)
Tights - (CREAMSHOP), Plain Tights Set (Black)
Shoes - ETD Shoes, Kristin Booties (Natural)
Bag - Urid Dal, Ruffled Handbag (Dark Grey)
Necklace - Caroline's Jewelry, Special Cameo Locket in Gold
Ring - Paper Couture, P.C., Diamond Encrusted Square Curt Amethyst Ring
Earrings, Bangle - -EARTHTONES-(Now Luc Jewelry), Vintage Sets: Humble Blossom - Gold
Hair - ETD, Roxie (White Burnt)
Skin - Canimal, Essence(Grace)... of Pinup
Lashes - [Detour], Love Lashes
Eyes - **[Riddle]**, Realistic Brights - Brown