One Last Post... For Today Anyways!

As a final nod to ~~Ivalde~~ & -L'Abel- Appreciation Day, I wanted to re-post some images that I originally blogged in December 2007. At that time, my wardrobe was chock full of ~~Embla~~, ~~Ask~~, and ~~Ivalde~~ content. I created a series of collages, showing off all of my "Look Of Ivalde". They are my most viewed images on Flickr, with over 6,500 views each, and if you click the image, you will see the full outfit credits too. Just a small peek at the many faces of ~~Ivalde~~, and the reason I named my blog Second Life Fashion Addict. There are eight collages in total. And they are so popular, they still register up to 20 looks a day on my Flickr stream. Even Linden Labs felt they were able to use them without asking in their e-mail ads pimping out the new XStreet SL acquisition. Enjoy!















~ Ketsy

~~Ivalde~~ & -L'Abel- Appreciation Day - Thank You Bloggers!

I wanted to say thank you to each and every blogger, blog feed site administrator, and blog reader for their participation in ~~Ivalde~~ & -L'Abel- Appreciation Day.






It has been an amazing day, reading through the over 45 posts dedicated to Neferia Abel's work and person, and I know that when Nef gets her internet connection back, and looks at all the love and appreciation, the kind words and memories, she will be overcome with emotion. Nef has always kept a low profile, and seems to almost doubt her own skill in the most charming way, so your words and comments, your collective effort in participating in this meme, will really astonish her.

You can read though the amazing posts, and see all the participants names in the Blog Participants List. The list will continue to grow as I discover other posts on the various feeds, or if I am sent the links. I hope when you stumble across a look you adore, you leave a comment for the blogger in question. Sometimes we have our looks done weeks ahead of time, so preparing for a meme like this in just a few days meant a lot of people working diligently on very short notice.

Thanks again to each and every one of you for making today happen, your efforts are appreciated more then you can imagine.

~ Ketsy

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

If You Want To Be Happy For The Rest Of Your Life... [Ivalde/L'Abel Day Post 2/4]

What is ~~Ivalde~~ the brand best known for? Capturing Vintage and Retro looks and making them appealing, fun, and oh so feminine. I knew I wanted to blog at least one of my hundreds of ~~Ivalde~~ retro looks today, and so I decided that the one that best captured Neferia's attention to detail was the Kassandra Blue Dress. It includes the adorable rubber gloves and the apron. This dress makes me smile for so many reasons, not all entirely innocent. I wore it to a "Dysfunctional Family Dinner" event at PIN UPS, I wore the blue dress alone for a date night on Retrology with Draco, and I did one of my first Photo Shoots for my own pleasure with this look, doing a "50s' Demo Kitchen" look. That was before I even started blogging. I even wore just the apron and gloves with heels to make some very sexy pictures for Draco's birthday that year.



I love Nef's attention to detail, going so far as to make colour and fabric choices that suit the era of the design, combining both hand painted and photo-sourced elements seamlessly, and always making it almost impossible to choose any outfit in just ONE colour. I decided to go Stepford Wife and added in this fabulous feather duster from BLONDE, stockings from 1-800-Bettie's, and shoes from Maitreya. Jewelry includes the perfect pearl necklace from Decollage, and opal earrings from (Yummy). Skin is from Celestial Studios and hair is from Retro-rific Ingenue.

So, as the Jimmy Soul song says "If you want to be happy for the rest of your life, never make a pretty woman your wife, Go for my personal point of view
Get an ugly girl to marry you". Well, I think there are going to be a lot of unhappy husbands, because any woman wearing ~~Ivalde~~ is simply beautiful. Thanks Nef, for making my retro dreams come true.

Shopping Details:
Dress - ~~Ivalde~~, Kassandra Blue Dress [Includes Apron & Gloves]
Stockings - 1-800-Bettie's, Stocking By Bettie's (Taupe)
Shoes - Maitreya, Antie's Enchants (Black)
Necklace - Decollage, Bubblegum Pearls [Tintable]
Earrings - (Yummy), Opal Studs [from Opals & Pearls Set]
Duster - BLONDE, Feather Duster [Spring Launch Preview Gift]
Hair - Ingenue, Lamour (Blue Black)
Skin - Celestial Studios, Charmed Skin (Tone 20, Blue-Sea)
Eyes - Miriel, Hazel Eyes (Big)
Lashes - MMS (Now LeLutka), Thora Lashes

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

Good Mother

Though she really doesn't understand my online interests or the way I live my life, I can honestly say that I have a Good Mother, not just good, great. She has always been there for me, been genuinely proud of my accomplishments, and believes that I have something to offer the world. She is generous, she is a beautiful grandparent to my nieces and nephew, and she makes me want to be a better person. This look really wouldn't be one my mother would understand, but I love bright colours and quirky details, so I decided to blog it today, because being who I am is part of the gifts my mother gave me growing up. When Canimal Zephyr sent me the adorable Circus Treats dress, I was thrilled, they are striped fun, with two bright colours in combination. I chose the orange and yellow version for this look, pairing it with a pair of simple Yellow opaque tights from ~~Ivalde~~.



With a tiny mini-dress, there is lots of room to accessorize, and I started with these amazing Death Dolly Goth Mary Jane Pumps from Unique Needs. I carried the studded black leather look to a simple arm band from WRONG on one wrist, while piling on some stacked Orange bangles from *PERSONA* on the right wrist. The fabulous Butterfly Necklace from *i-Candy* is everything fresh and Spring and hopeful, a sweet touch on an otherwise dramatic goth princess look. Simple Stud Earrings from Sian Birke are great as a wardrobe staple, since the stones are color change. Though I rarely wear them, I love tattoos, and these faded half sleeves from AITUI Tattoo are really fabulous looking.



This adorable wig is from /artilleri/, and Antonia Marat makes some of my favorite hair, the Dayna is simply sweet with a touch of edge, just the way I like it. When I go for an edgier look, the skins I choose are always my Canimal Essence Skins, this one is perfect for this look, and perfectly named "Sunshine". The Canimal Essence Flamenco Trash Lashes, here in Red, are the perfect compliment to the skin. My eyes are, as always, favorites from Miriel.

Happy Mother's Day to those of you celebrating today. You are the world to your children, and you are the heart and soul of society. The song on my mind today is a favorite, Good Mother by Jann Arden, a fellow Canadian.

Shopping Details:
Dress - Canimal, Circus Treats (Orange/Yellow) [Review Copy]
Tights - ~~Ivalde~~, Tights Collection, Yellow
Shoes - Unique Needs, *UN!* Death Dolly Goth Mary Jane Pumps
Necklace - *i-Candy* now KaWaii Jelly, Butterfly Necklace (Orange)
Bangles - *PERSONA*, Bangles Pack - Oranges (Right)
Earrings - Sian Birke Jewelry, Stud Earrings
Wrist Band - WRONG, Spike Band (Black, Left)
Tattoos - AITUI Tattoo, Shooting Stars (Colored) *Half Sleeves Faded*
Hair - /artilleri/, Dayna V2 *Blacks*
Skin - Canimal, Essence (Grace)... of Sunshine
Lashes - Canimal, Essence... Lashes (Flamenco Trash - Red)
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.

Party Girl

It's one of my favorite movies of all time, 1995's Party Girl starring Parker Posey the all-time it girl of independent film. Parker Posey plays a savvy and sassy party girl, with a wardrobe to die for, and a great collection of fantastic friends, but she needs to get real and get a job in order to keep a roof over her head. If you have never seen it, you are missing out on one of the best fashion mash-up wardrobes I have seen on the silver screen, all set against a gritty New York backdrop. This Dagmar dress from ~~Ivalde~~ Couture, paired with a messy wig and heavily lined eyes, made me feel every bit the "Party Girl", arriving home after a heavy night of partying. Neferia Abel used sculpted roses on the bodice and gloves, and the skirt has a really great transparent sculpted layer that gives it the look of organza. I love the juxtaposition of a glam cocktail dress and gloves with the mussed up-do wig, Pamela, from Exile. It has that night after the party look, as does the PXL Creations skin with the fabulously dark and smudged lined eyes. The eyes look more dramatic with Cake's Separated Lashes over Freak Fantasia Glassy Mustard Green Eyes.



I decided to work the amazing copper brown colour of the dress with a delicious hit of Mint in the form of (CREAMSHOP) Plain Tights. I love wearing coloured tights, and the soft mint makes the great (Shiny Things) Tuli Pumps really stand out. They are a perfect match to the dress, and I couldn't have planned it better. I opted for some big uncut Turquoise baubles from Swallowtail, including the great Uncut Gems Necklace and the Natural Stone Earrings. I really like the raw look of the gems next to the polished glamor of the dress. I picked up another great Paper Couture bag, this time opting for the almost casual carry-all look of The Tasty Bag in Bleu. Also wearing my Caroline's Jewelry Gimcrack Diamond Solitaire Ring.



Shopping Details:
Dress - ~~Ivalde~~ Couture, Dagmar Brown Dress
Tights - (CREAMSHOP), Plain Tights (Mint)
Shoes - (Shiny Things), Tuli Pumps (Brown)
Bag - Paper Couture, P.C., The Tasty Bag (Bleu)
Necklace - Swallowtail, Uncut Gems Necklace (Turquoise)
Earrings - Swallowtail, Natural Stone Earrings (Turquoise)
Ring - Caroline's Jewelry, Gimcrack Diamond Solitaire Ring
Hair - Exile, Pamela (Blackberry)
Skin - PXL Creations, Crys_DarkEyes_CoffeeLips_BlackEB
Lashes - Cake, Separated Lashes
Eyes - Freak Fantasia, Glassy Mustard Green Eyes

Vain Inc. Magazine - Issue 18 Now Available!

This month for my "Look of the Month" editorial in Vain Inc. Magazine, I decided it was time to celebrate my first fashion "Love" in-world. Vintage, Retro, & Rockabilly! I have been toying with the idea of being a "Paper Doll" for ages, and it was too much fun. I would love to see other bloggers take this challenge on, make a doll out of yourself, show us all a few of your favorite outfits! If you visit the Flickr page (click the images), you can actually see the full size versions, and can see how easy it was to do... it would have to be, since I have no PS skills whatsoever! Check out this month's issue of Vain Inc. Magazine online or in-world, it is another great one! Vain Inc. Magazine - Issue 18!







Clothing By /artilleri/, ~Ivalde~, & Ingenue.

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

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)

Happy Diwali!

Diwali is the Indian Festival Of Lights, a joyous celebration often marked with Fireworks and the Lighting of Hundreds of Candles or Lamps. Also known as Deepavali, it marks the homecoming of King Rama of Ayodhya after a 14-year exile. Rama was welcomed by lighting rows (avali) of lamps (deepa), thus its name, Deepavali. This word, in due course, became Diwali in Hindi. The festival marks the victory of good over evil, and uplifting of spiritual darkness. Symbolically it marks the homecoming of goodwill and faith after an absence, and if often celebrated with new clothes and by sharing sweets and snacks. I can't offer you Galub Jamun, Jalebi, or Ladoo, some of my favorite sweets, but I can show you my newest costume from Zaara Indian Couture. The Visaka Lehnga and Choli Costume includes the veil and the tied sash at the waist so you can dance like a starlet Right out of a Bollywood Movie. The colour is sensational and joyous, and the hand made textures are some of Zarra Kohime's best work to date.



I pulled on the great Jangle Bangle Bracelets from Ephemeral Creations that I picked up at the Jewelry Expo, and tinted the silver ones pink to work with the outfit. Zaara also has some of the most amazing traditional and modern Indian jewelry, and I love this Suvarna Kundun necklace, it is incredible well made and is very like the ones real Indian brides wear on their wedding day. The Suvarna set comes with an entire trousseau of pieces, including anklets, which I am also wearing. The Sari's Aubergine Henna tattoos were a gift from the Grid Wide Ghostbusters Halloween Hunt going on now with Vain Inc. and over 100 amazing creators. I love the colour and style of this henna set. Also wearing my Caroline's Jewelry Gimcrack Diamond Solitaire Ring.



Hair is a lovely sculpted Chestnut Brown wig from Armidi Hair in The Pasadena Girl IV style. The lovely warm Golden Bisque skin is from ~~Ivalde~~, the Inari A make-up. Neferia has really created a lovely line of skins, and they are so well priced for a package of several make-ups. Head to ~~Ivalde~~ to try some of her Demos, they are worth a look if you love make-up options and deals! Eyes are **[Riddle]**, the lovely Realistic Brights in Brown, and sexy Separated Lashes are from Cake. Happy Diwali everyone, may you find light in your life everyday.

Shopping Details:
Costume - Zaara:, Visaka (Green)
Henna - Sari's, Aubergine Henna [Grid Wide Ghost Hunt Gift]
Bangles - Ephemeral, Jangle Bangle Bracelets (Silver, Tinted Pink)
Necklace, Anklets - Zaara:, Suvarna (White)
Ring - Caroline's Jewelry, Gimcrack Diamond Solitaire Ring
Sandals - !Boing Fromage!, Studded Leather Sandals (Brown/Brown)
Hair - Armidi Hair, The Pasadena Girl IV, Brown Collection (Chestnut)
Skin - ~~Ivalde~~, Golden Bisque - Inari A [Review Copy]
Eyes - **[Riddle]**, Realistic Brights (Brown)
Lashes - Cake, Separated Lashes

Elegantly Waisted

I have been on a casual jag lately, and I decided it was time to class things up a bit. I was surprised on log-in yesterday to find some gifts from Neferia Abel in my inventory, a number of her latest releases, and I couldn't wait to dive in and see what the folders held inside. The very first outfit I pulled on was this Aksana Highwaist Skirt Outfit in Grey. It is another one of the reasons I adore ~~Ivalde~~ so very much, it makes dressing beyond easy. This outfit comes with a number of layer options, so you can wear the top or skirt separately, as well as some stockings (though I opted to go with a Black pair of Tights from Blaze*). I love the fine grey plaid of the skirt, and Nef's hand painted details are really sweet. The ruffled blouse comes with a prim collar, and is a great photo-real texture that looks elegant yet understated.



Nef often tells me that she thinks Morrigan Hyun's Elegance Hats are under-represented on the feeds, and I tend to agree. This amazing Thalia Hat is really spectacular, a mix of pearls and flowers, black twisting loops that look almost celestial. I am pretty sure that Morrigan sent it to me after I saw it and commented on it in her Flickr feed, but it is so fantastic, I may have bought it, and certainly would have if it wasn't sent to me. Speaking of fantastic, it has been said before and needs to be said again, Tesla Miles newest release of these amazing Hylda Low Boots are simply brilliant. I am always impressed when -Tesla- has a new release because each one trumps the last in terms of quality and style. These boots are great with elegant metal accents and a great selection of colour options. I had a blast picking up freebies and shopping the Jewelry Expo this week, and am thrilled to show off some of my goodies, starting with these simple but much needed Stud Earrings from Sian Birke Jewelry. I have always wanted a basic stud earring, and this offers endless combinations for metals and gemstones by script. I also nabbed these ~flirt~ Hearts & Diamonds Bracelets in the Semi-Precious Stones version. They can easily be worked into a more dressy or more casual look. A big chunky Catherine Black Pearl Cocktail Ring from ~Muse~, who was sadly missing from the Expo, is still a favorite, and a really stunning piece. A simple Silver Clutch from Adam N Eve finished off the accessories for this look.



I picked up this great Minako Hair from Kin at the Hair Fair, I am still wading through my folders from the Fair, and this style is really punky, but somehow works perfectly to set off the elegant factor of this look with a little bit of edge. It works really well with the hat too. A favorite skin from Celestial Studios, the Silver 2 in the Charmed Line is always a fun one to wear with a more classic style, giving it a glam factor. Separated Lashes are from Cake, Glassy Mustard Green Eyes from Freak Fantasia complete the essentials. This time, and elegant look was definitely not wasted on me.

Shopping Details:
Blouse, Skirt - ~~Ivalde~~, Aksana Grey Highwaist Skirt (Includes Stockings, Not Worn)[Gift From Designer]
Tights – Blaze*, Pantyhose/Tights Bundle
Boots - -Tesla-, Hylda Low Boots (Black)[Review Copy]
Purse – Adam N Eve, Handbag, Clutch (Silver)
Hat – Elegance Hats, Thalia (Black & White)[? Review Copy]
Bracelets - ~flirt~, Hearts & Diamonds Bracelets, Semi-Precious Stones [Jewelry Expo]
Earrings – Sian Birke Jewelry, Stud Earrings [Jewelry Expo]
Ring - ~Muse~, Catherine Black Pearl Cocktail Ring (Platinum)
Hair – Kin, Minako (Black) [Hair Fair]
Skin – Celestial Studios, Charmed Skin (Tone 20, Silver 2)
Lashes – Cake, Separated Lashes
Eyes – Freak Fantasia, Glassy Mustard Green Eyes

Orange You Glad...

I have very little [CRAP] in my closets, no seriously, I don't own very many of Tenshi Vielle's creations. It's not that I don't like them, it's more because of her heavy use of prim parts that don't agree with my bust line. When Tenshi released this sweet little Rain Coat, I knew that finally there was something I could work with. Why it is called a Rain Coat only Tenshi could explain, it covers very little, but I love this vibrant Orange version, and was drawn to it's silky feminine style. I love the little button details on the collar, cuffs, and chest. This is one piece of [CRAP] I am glad to own. I paired it up with these great Plaid Pants with an orange accent from ~~Ivalde~~ (then Embla), part of the Amanda set, though I am not certain it is still being sold.



I had been waiting for an opportunity to wear these great Dolly Sandals in Orange from =DeLa*=, and I am glad I got them squeezed in before the seasons officially change. I love the stacked heel, and the bright orange colour is just delicious. This Porta Corsico Bag from [Armidi Gisaci] works surprisingly well here, and even though the colour is noted as Gold & Grey, it has an almost orange brown tone to it. I have to admit it, if there is one thing I always seem to like from Armidi, it's the shoes, bags, and other accessories. Dark Mouse, new to the Retrology SIM has some great accessories, but I especially love the belts, and this Ostrich and Tortoise Belt is a favorite. -EARTHTONES- makes some of my favorite casual jewelry in-world, and this great Goldust and Cedar Bangles Set is a wonderful example of the great items you can discover there. I am also wearing my Gimcrack Diamond Solitaire Ring from Caroline's Jewelry, which I wear almost all the time as it is my engagement ring.



I have always loved the bright and silky Silver hair from -=H2L=-, and this Mio style that I snagged at the Hair Fair is another new favorite. It is sleek and smooth, and I love that is shows off some cute ear. One of my favorite Canimal skins is this Pinup make-up in the Essence Line. I love the red lip and the earthy smokey green shadow. Separated Lashes are from Cake, and eyes are the ultra affordable Hazel Eyes from Decollage. I always love wearing bright vibrant colours, they just have this instant mood lifting quality for me. It makes me glad that I found a little bit of [CRAP] tucked away in my inventory.

Shopping Details:
Jacket – [CRAP], Rain Coat (Orange)
Pants - ~~Ivalde~~ (Embla), Plaid Pant from Amanda Set (Orange)
Shoes - =DeLa*=, Sandal “Dolly” (Orange)
Bag – [Armidi Gisaci], Porta Corsico Bag (Gold & Grey)
Belt – Dark Mouse, Ostrich & Tortoise Belt (Dark Brown)
Ring – Caroline’s Jewelry, Gimcrack Diamond Solitaire Ring
Bracelet (L) - -EARTHTONES-, bMc! Goldust/Cedar Stack
Bracelet (R) - -EARTHTONES-, bMc! Cedarwood Spheres Bracelet
Hair - -=H2L=-, Mio (Silver) [Hair Fair]
Skin – Canimal, Essence (Grace)… of Pinup
Lashes – Cake, Separated Lashes
Eyes – Decollage, Hazel Eyes

Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam

Anyone who has ever been to one of the "Bollywood Night" Events at PIN UPS knows how absolutely passionately I adore Indian Cinema. I have a collection of over 300 Bollywood movies on DVD. I used to watch them end to end, at 3 hours a film, I was having to look less and less at the English subtitles, and began to actually understand the Hindi, and all the dialects in the various films. I was enchanted with the colour, the songs and dances, and the culture, and of course, I am a total sucker for melodrama. It all started after a friend from University took me with her to Little India, and shared with me her passion for the country she grew up in. Since that first day wandering the streets, eating delicious snacks like pani purri and masala dosa, and chat papri, buying incense, and looking through shops full of colourful Sari, I was hooked. Indian food is without a doubt my favorite, and that coupled with a great bollywood movie is a brilliantly joyous thing.



I have been collecting Sari, Choli and Lengha, Salwaar Kameez, Kurta Pajama, and all sorts of other Indian fashions since some of my earliest days, but for the most recent "Bollywood Night", I decided it was time to check out Zaara Indian Couture. I had seen it blogged often, loved the colour and creativity, but had never seen much of the traditional costumes in store. I was absolutely delighted to find some of the most beautiful Indian Fashions I have seen in-world thus far. This Rustic Rhythm Purple costume had me at hello, and I knew it was just what I wanted. I had seen some of my favorite Bollywood Starlets wear outfits just like this, Aishwarya Rai, Rani Mukerji, Preeti Zinta, Karisma Kapoor, Kajol, I can see them dancing in costumes just like this, the traditional white stacked bangles climbing up their long beautiful arms. If you have never seen a bollywood movie, start with something more accessible like Bollywood/Hollywood or Bride & Prejudice both English Language, or go with classics like Kuch Kuch Hota Hai or Taal. You will find yourself enjoying them even if you never thought you might. The name of this post is for one of my favorite movies of all time, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam.



My look is rounded of with this fabulous Group Gift skin from ~~Ivalde~~, no longer available as a gift, the Violante in the Gold Bisque tone is a lovely coffee coloured tone, and the make-up is lovely. The new ~~Ivalde~~ skins are fabulous, go give them a try, they are a great value, with three lipstick shade in each pack, and very reasonably priced. Hair is Armidi's Pasadena Girl, a lovely long waved style. Glassy Mustard Green Eyes are from Freak Fantasia, and lovely Bedroom Lashes from Cake. The lovely dark Henna Tattoos are from Canimal, I used to go get black designs on my ankles during the summer, really fun and a great temporary tattoo. Worn but hidden are earrings by Drifting Sands and fabulous Bohemian Ankle Wrap Flats sandals from Boing Fromage.

Shopping Details:
Costume - Zaara, :3 Rustic Rhythm *purple* (Includes Bangles)
Shoes - !BF!, Urban Bohemian Ankle Wrap Flats
Earrings - Drifting Sands, Tunnel Multi Set Ear Piercings
Henna Tattoo - Canimal, Henna Pack II
Hair - (Armidi Hair), The Pasadena Girl V - Midnight Collection (Midnight I)
Skin - ~~Ivalde~~, Gold Bisque, Violante [Group Gift, No Longer Available]
Lashes - Cake, Bedroom Lashes
Eyes - Freak Fantasia, Glassy Mustard Green Eyes

Ready, Set, Play!

As summer days begin to get a little shorter, the weather a little cooler, I want to grasp every last opportunity to wear something that makes me feel I am in the moment. Back to Little Rebel, this time in a sweet Belted Playset in a lovely Sage Green. The set is a simple, well made, and the system Belt element takes away half the work of accessorizing. This is another set from Little Rebel that is offered in at least half a dozen great colours, but of course where green is an option I am pretty much sold. This was the perfect opportunity to wear the long awaited Stiletto Moody Tall Boot, here is Brown Croc Patent. There is no denying this boot is unlike any other I have seen in-world. The shape is so smooth and fits the calf so perfectly, the invisiprims on the shoes base are small, and can be hidden entirely on the boot upper. The Crocodile print is pretty luxurious, and cruelty free, so indulge freely. They are pricey, and this pair was a review copy else I may not have been able to purchase them for some time, but I think that the price is commensurate with the quality and development, and the level of service provided by the Stiletto Moody team. Stiletto Moody has provided so many features with these boots that one pair can go a very long way. Stiletto seems to have created a new standard by which all other boots might be judged. I will always love my sturdy, chunky, and goth boots, but when I want a sexy look, these are the ones I gravitate to. The look particularly great with a shorty short outfit like this one.

I went with brown and bronze toned accessories, starting with this fabulous Gold Burlington Bag from Adam N Eve, i really love the unique shape of it. Myllie Writer of *PERSONA* has been generously sending me her latest jewelry releases ever since since I bought up her first jewelry sets in fatpacks on the day of release, she does some amazing work. Her jewelry is classic, and classy, it is interesting and detailed, without being unnecessarily prim heavy or scripted. Perhaps my favorite thing about the *PERSONA* Jewelry line, is that everything comes in not only gold and silver, but also a bronze or rose gold version. Here I am wearing the Crack Metal Large Bangle in Bronze on my right wrist, and the Wood-Metal Collection II, Triple Chain Bracelet in Bronze on my left. I am also wearing the *PERSONA* Wood-Metal Collection II, Triple Chain Necklace in Bronze. My hidden ears are adorned with the Drifting Sands Tunnel Multi Set Ear Piercings.



Neferia Abel of ~~Ivalde~~ has released a new line of skins, and if you have not been to take a look yet, I urge you to go. Nef is so incredibly talented, and so modest, she actually sent me a set of the new skins prior to their release to ask my opinion on them. I loved them on first look, and that was even before I realized that they were priced so reasonably. I believe the skins are $800Lalas for a pack that includes 3 different lip shades. This is the ~~Ivalde~~ Inari Skin in Rose Beige, and I love the soft tone, the amazing eye make-up, and the glossy pouted lips. Hair is The Angel II from Armidi in the lovely white Pearl tone. Bedroom Lashes are from Cake, Glassy Mustard Green Eyes from Freak Fantasia.

Shopping Details:
Outfit – Little Rebel Designs, Belted Playset (Sage Green)
Boots – Stiletto Moody, Tall Boot (Brown Croc Patent)[Review Copy]
Bag – Adam N Eve, Handbag – Burlington (Gold)
Bangle - *PERSONA*, Crack-Metal Large Bangle- Bronze (R)[Review Copy]
Necklace – *PERSONA*, Wood-Metal Collection II, Triple Chain Necklace – Bronze [Review Copy]
Bracelet – *PERSONA*, Wood-Metal Collection II, Triple Chain Bracelet – Bronze (L)[Review Copy]
Earrings - Drifting Sands, Tunnel Multi Set Ear Piercing
Hair – (Armidi Hair) – The Angel II (Pearl)
Skin - ~~Ivalde~~, Rose Beige (Inari C)[Review Copy]
Lashes – Cake, Bedroom Lashes
Eyes – Freak Fantasia, Glassy Mustard Green Eyes