Everybody Hurts.

I am having a rough couple of, well, lets just say a rough time of it and sometimes it just seems that there is no light at the end of that tunnel. We have all been there to some degree, whether it is a fleeting moment of sadness, or full scale clinical depression, everybody hurts sometime. Some people seem to have a natural resilience to it, while others seem to utterly falter. Then there are those of us who have been fighting for so long, that the battle wears us down like shelter in a storm. We are strong at first, but eventually, the rain and winds wear us down, so there is just less and less of us there to keep it all together. Sometimes, no matter how hard you try to keep it together, you just find yourself exposed and raw, fragile and overly sensitive to the world in general. This is where I find myself living lately, in that battered and broken place that has me hurting beyond hurt, and not sure if I can recover.



I didn't think I would be blogging again, certainly not in this mood, but I wanted to change my look in-world to show how I feel; the fragile and the broken, the worn and the weary. I started with a pair of distressed jeans from **[Riddle]**, and decided to see what my dear friend Neferia Abel of -L'Abel-had sent me of her new releases. This lovely Malin shirt, with it's fragile chiffon cuffs just worked for me. It is lovely, and I love to see Nef doing separates. I chose a pair of well worn and reworked boots from *REDGRAVE*, the absolutely brilliant Girls' Bikers have been overhauled to be even more perfect, as if that were possible. I adore that each boot is different, the worn twisted and well loved leather like a shield. The fragile and perfect KessKreations Karen Earrings are so lovely here, the customization script allowed me to match them to my look, and the fine prim work, which is not normally my 'cup of tea' is too precious and precise to be ignored. The ring is Paper Couture's Diamond and Rose Bouquet Ring. The final addition, was the handbag. I didn't have one I wanted to use, but I knew I hadn't been to Bare Rose Tokyo for ages, and know they have the most brilliant and inexpensive bags, so I popped on over and was in love on first sight with the Daisuki Bag, here in Brown. For a mere $140 LaLas, I was set, with a great bag, fabulous flexi and sculpted details, and 3 hold options.



I knew I wanted to return to this absolutely stunning T U L I Kalista crying skin, since I have been crying endlessly for days. It is flawless, and the non-crying versions are next in line once I save up my pennies, as they are lovely and have so many make-up options. I wanted a hair style that felt like it was sheltering me from the elements, that I could hide behind, but was still chic and precious. *Pazazz Hair* offers this stunning Riha wig in a brilliant choice of shades, this is from a solids pack. Lashes are from LeLeutka, and eyes are my precious treasured Miriel gems, that are unfortunately no longer available for sale.

Shopping Details:
Top - -L'Abel-, Malin Shirt, Antik
Jeans - **[Riddle]**, Classic Dirty, Plain
Earrings - KessKreations, Karen Earrings (Scripted to Zirconium, White Pearl, Champagne Gems)
Ring - Paper Couture, Diamond and Rose Bouquet Ring (Worn on R Hand)
Boots - [*RG*] *REDGRAVE*, Girls' Bikers RELOADED Smoke+Bronze
Bag - :::B@R:::, Daisuki (Brown, L Hand)
Hair - *Pazazz Hair*, Riha - Coal
Skin - T U L I, Kalista Fair 21
Eyes - Miriel, Standard Eyes - Sunlit Tree [No Longer Available]
Lashes - LeLutka (was MMS), Thora Lashes

Note: All Pictures Are Direct Screen Captures With No Post Editing, No Shading or Blending. They Are Taking On A Flat Prim Background With The Sun As The Only Light Source. Poses Are By The Amazing Pose Makers of SL, I Have Over 1200 So I Credit Them All Here. ~ Ketsy

Gaucho Marks

On my last trip to Celestial Studios, I stocked up on all my Charmed Skins, making sure I had all of them, since they are my trademark look, and the one that makes me feel most like myself. This purple Violicious skin inspired this look, I love the punky burst of colour, and decided to go with matching hair from the phenomenal Eat Rice!. This Stellar style is scripted so the front portion can be made one of several great manic panic colours. Lashes are also from Celestial Studios, and Realistic Brights Brown Eyes are from **[Riddle]**.



I wanted to work with some of the clothing I have had for a while, but this great Sprawl Bricolage top in Grey is a great sheer blouse with all the layer options you could ever want. Pushbutton Skolnick's new line is really fantastic, and I am glad I nabbed a bunch before my funds totally bottomed out. Make sure you check the Sprawl shop out. I have had these great Gaucho Pants from BP* for a long time, but never really knew how to wear them. I think they work well with this layered look. I threw on some knit socks from [MG Fashion], and went with a monochrome leg look with Black Dune Boots from Maitreya. Since I am on the modest side, I wore a classic bra from House of Nyla under the Blouse, it gives the look a little more class and depth.



I added a few punky accessories with Canimal's Picture Pendant, scripted to click through about 10 different cute designs. I pulled in a big bangle from ~*Fresh Baked Goods*~, the Jelly Gem Donut Bangle is scripted to change base and gem colours, and can be matched to almost any look. A Pouch Belt from ::MEZZO:: gives added interest at the waist, with cute little skull charms it is really a nice touch of kitsch. A big ~flirt~ Amythyst in Platinum Tiffany Ring pulls in another dash of purple to round out the look. Having fun with a dash of colour makes me oh so very happy.

Shopping Details:
Blouse - Sprawl, The Bricolage (Gray)
Jeans - BP*, Gaucho (Blue)
Bra - House of Nyla, Black Lace Lingerie Set 1, Full Cup Bra
Socks - [MG Fashion], Knitted Socks (Pack01, Black)
Boots - Maitreya, Dune Boots (Black)
Necklace - Canimal, Picture Pendant
Bangle - ~*Fresh Baked Goods*~, Jelly Gem Donut Bangle (Silver)
Ring - ~flirt~, Tiffany Plat/Amethyst Ring
Belt - ::MEZZO::, porch belt, skull (stomach, m)
Hair - Eat Rice!, Stellar (Black, Blackdark)
Skin - Celestial Studios, Charmed Line (Tone 20, Purple-Violicious)
Eyes - **[Riddle]**, Realistic Brights - Brown
Lashes - Celestial Studios, Club 13

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

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

Big Yellow Taxi

Although I had this look ready ahead of time, and was planning on calling this post "Big Yellow Taxi" in any case, it seems to me that the current Open Space Sim Bait & Switch tactic in Phil's Place going on, it is even more relevant.

They paved paradise
And put up a parking lot
With a pink hotel, a boutique
And a swinging hot SPOT
Don’t it always seem to go
That you don't know what you’ve got
‘Til it's gone
They paved paradise
And put up a parking lot.
~ Joni Mitchell

I feel for those who were using there Open Sim under the, albeit vague, terms set forth by Phil's place, and am worried we are about to lose a lot of beautiful places, quiet retreats, and art spaces for yet more overcrowded ugly places in-world. Time will tell, but it seems wrong to punish the many for the crimes of a few, if in-fact there were those who were abusing the "Light" use terms.



This look started with this jacket I picked up at Trix' or Treats during the recent Grid Wide Ghost Busters Hunt, it wasn't the free gift, but when I saw it I had to have it. The Yellow Retro Hoodie with optional Black Shirt beneath it is bold and bright and really makes me happy. I paired it up with a great pair of Soft Black Leather Pants from IBIZARRE, a place I discovered for the first time this week, and love the soft sheen of them, really a great pair of classic pants. I love my EnvYou Strapped Chucks, own them in every colour, but this may be the first time I have worn the Yellow. Love this Caution Tape Belt from [THE SYNDICATE], it's got great visual impact. One of the first purses I ever purchased is this adorable 8 Ball Bag from /artilleri/.



When Canimal Zephyr passed me this adorable Deadly Lullaby Necklace, I was thrilled. Not only is is super cute, but it also has amazing scripting and you can customize the details, like bows and pendant colours, to make it work so many ways. I pulled on a cute bracelet from ::MEZZO::, they have great inexpensive sweet jewelry. I love these great ~MAGIKA~ Lightening Earrings, which are multi set, and with a little linked part editing are a great look. Also wearing my Caroline's Jewelry Gimcrack Diamond Solitaire Ring.

Another great Hair Fair find is this Mia Koda wig from Hair Solutions. I really am enjoying re-discovering what I purchased during that lag infested spending spree, particularly from the shops I bought from and learned of for the first time. A favorite Celestial Studios skin, great eyes from **[Riddle]**, and lashes from Cake complete the essentials. I am sad watching the Open Space Sim issue hurt so many, I hope those at the "Licken Labs" get a clue before it's too late.

Shopping Details:
Jacket - Trix' or Treats [TT], Yellow Retro Hoodie, Black Shirt
Pants - IBIZZARE, Soft Black Leather Pants
Shoes - EnvYou, Strapped Chucks (Yellow)
Belt - [THE SYNDICATE], Caution Tape Belt
Bag - /artilleri/, 8 Ball Bag
Necklace - Canimal, Deadly Lullaby Necklace [Review Copy]
Bracelet - ::MEZZO::, Bangle Dots Black/Red
Ring - Caroline's Jewelry, Gimcrack Diamond Solitaire Ring
Earrings - ~MAGIKA~, Lightning Earrings
Hair - Hair Solutions [HS], Mia Koda - White Rice [Hair Fair]
Skin - Celestial Studios, Charmed Line (Tone 10, Purple - Orchid)
Lashes - Cake, Separated Lashes
Eyes - ** [Riddle] **, Realistic Brights (Brown)

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

Expletive Deleted

So I have officially found a new addiction, like I needed one, and the Devil's name is Plurk. In case you are as out of the loop as I was about what it is, think of it as a giant IM conference with dozens of friends happening live, and everyone can see everyone else's conversations. It is instant gratification, there is always someone on, and you can share URLs, Video, Photos, and anything from RL updates to pet peeves to gossip. Oh, and did I mention you get "Karma" points for being especially addicted. Oh yes! If you want to check it out, you can find my little Plurk profile link at the side panel of my blog, but I would caution most that it is really addictive and may not be for everyone. In any case, one needs to be comfy while sitting about Plurking all day. I think the new collaborative releases from Celestial Studios, Kari, and TorridWear are absolutely remarkable in quality, options, and details, and this Pink New School Jacket is a great example of why. It is a unisex top, comes in a pile of great colours to choose from, and the pack includes collar size options, layer options, including a T-shirt or Tank Top under layer that can be all on one Jacket or separate, and is modifiable, so of course I had to tint! I can see this one jacket going the distance in my wardrobe. I paired it with a favorite pair of Betsy Pants in Dark Blue from /artilleri/, simple, sweet, and inexpensive. I anxiously await new releases from Antie!



Can you say Cute Shoes? I love some cute casual flats, and these Kushi Shoes from *i-Candy* are so sweet. They come with bow and bow-less versions. All I know is that Khushi is the word for happiness in Hindi, and these shoes make me happy indeed! The Fuck You Bag is one I have had for ages, and it always make me laugh. Red Ruin was an early favorite for me when I joined up almost two years ago, and I still find some of their items to be favorites in my inventory. The moment I spotted this Happy Bead Set in Rainbow from Studio Sidhe, I had to have it. I am thankful for Miriel Enfield's Jewelry Expo for introducing me to so many great content creators I was oblivious to. These beads are brilliant, they look like real Murano hand-blown glass, they are luminous and the texturing is fabulous. I love the sunburst charm on the necklace, the simple complimentary hoop earrings, and a great matching bracelet. I have to say, a set where things are not all matchy matchy, but rather a thoughtful collection of workable items is a real treat.



I have been wearing this great Lolli Hair wig from *Katat0nik* for weeks, but was waiting to blog it until the furor, very well deserved mind you, had died down a bit. It is fabulous and fun, I love the bangs, and the scripting options for Hair and Bow colour are a fabulous bonus. Another great Canimal Skin, can't wait for new make-ups on these Essence Skins, I want to devour them, they are so delicious! Gorgeous Brown Eyes are from ** [Riddle] **, and Love Lashes are from [Detour]. So now I will go check the 59 new unread messages in Plurk that have popped up since I started this post. Pray for me!

Jacket – (CS Kari & TW), New School Jacket (Pink) [Includes Tank Top/T Shirt Options, Tinted Green]
Pants - /artilleri/, Betsy Pants *Dark Blue*
Shoes - *i-Candy*, Kushi Shoes (Khaki)
Bag - *Red Ruin*, Fuck You Bag
Jewelry - :+:SS:+:, Happy Bead Set (Rainbow) Includes Earrings, Necklace, Bracelet [Jewelry Expo]
Hair - *Katat0nik*, Lolli Hair
Skin – Canimal, Essence(Grace)… of Roses
Lashes – [Detour], Love Lashes
Eyes - ** [Riddle] **, Realistic Brights (Brown)

Shout, Shout, Get It All Out...

Sometimes, it seems like the whole world is against us. Real life issues hit us hard, we struggle to find a place to hide for a few short hours a day, only to find or virtual lives can be just as harsh and stressful. I don't mean daily, but sometimes things all happen at the same time, and you just want to scream and shout and kick and fight, but find you lack the energy to do anything but shut down. I have always been the person who stuffs down the hurt deep inside, taking things out on myself, my health suffers, and this goes on until I literally become an emotional wreck. When it all starts to break down, when I feel like a raw nerve, and even the slightest thing can set me off. This is a personal flaw, not anyone else's fault, I just wish there was another way to let things out. Sometimes I wish I was the type of person who could rant and rave, and curse and shout. This T-Shirt from Naughty Designs has been in my inventory forever, but today was the appropriate day to blog it, because sometimes I wish I had the guts to tell people that they have hurt me before it builds into this giant thing that implodes. The KMA Tee is my way of saying something I couldn't voice on my own.



T-Shirts and jeans just go together, and these great Jenny Jeans from []::TULI::[] are just the sort of scrubby grungy thing I adore. The hole in the butt is my favorite part, but the cuff is also great, and I love the button detail on the front. I stopped by Gritty Kitty last week and picked up this adorable Mr. Skully Necklace. How cute is that! He has a little mustache, and the pack comes with three colour versions, I picked out the Blue this time, and decided to go with yellow accents to compliment the few bright yellow links. I went with this steal of a belt from .+*aya V.*+., the Color Belt comes in a bunch of great colours, and if I remember correctly, it was less then $50LaLas, a total steal. I went with the (Yummy) Found Hearts Bracelet that is scripted to colour change, and finally had a reason to wear the bright and fun Jellies shoes in Neon Lemon from Fashionably Dead. I had shoes like this in the 80s', they killed my feet and gave me little cuts, but damn I was stylin'. I also opted to wear my favorite AITUI Shooting Stars Half Sleeve Tats, have always loved these for their worn-in look, they just work with a t-shirt so well.



This hair is another great one from (JUNWAVE), the Pineapple is adorable, love the height, love the twisted braids on one side, really a funky and fun style that required very little prim tweaking on my part. The skin is another great Canimal Essence Skin, this Earth make-up is really lovely, a great smokey eye and neutral lip. I think my favorite part of Canimal Zephyr's skins in the unique shading on the cheeks, with make for a great looking cheek bone. Bedroom Lashes from Cake, and **[Riddle]** Realistic Brights Eyes in Brown. Today just might be the day I feel ready to Shout and get out all my frustration, be forewarned, I can be very loud when I mean to be!

Shopping Details:
T-Shirt - Naughty Designs, KMA Tee
Jeans - []::TULI::[], Jenny Jeans Blue
Shoes - (fd), Jellies (Neon Lemon)
Belt - .+*aya V.*+., Color Belt *yellow
Necklace - Gritty Kitty, Mr. Skully Necklace BLUE
Bracelet - (Yummy), Found Hearts Bracelet Gold
Tattoos - AITUI, Shooting Stars (Colored) Half Sleeve *faded*
Hair - (JUNWAVE), PINEAPPLE2_Black_L
Skin - Canimal, Essence (Grace)... of Earth
Lashes - Cake, Bedroom Lashes
Eyes - **[Riddle]**, Realistoc Brights (Brown)

Heirloom Pins & Memories

When I was a teenager, way back in the 80s', I had a Denim Jacket. It wasn't a fancy brand name, it wasn't the hottest thing on the block, but I made it mine. First I plastered the front chest pockets with tiny buttons featuring my favorite bands and artists. Wham, Duran Duran, Michael Jackson, and Cyndi Lauper. As I outgrew my geeky music stage, and removed those pins, I discovered my grandmother's jewelry box, full of fancy brooches and pins, tarnished metals and rhinestones. I adorned the jacket with these, and every time I would visit my grandmother or her friends, they would pass on more of these antique trinkets to me. I wish I had kept tabs on that Jacket, more so the pins, they are certainly in some box somewhere, but when I saw this amazing new Lady of The Pins sweater release by *Ki-Squared*, it brought back a flood of memories. The sweater has a brilliant knit texture, the creases are done to perfection, and the asymmetrical neckline and pin closures are so well done. Now released in another 6 colours, this sweater is a lovely addition to anyones wardrobe, I chose to layer it here with a sexy simple bra from *PERSONA*. I pulled out the blues in one of the broaches, and tinted this White Pearl Well Behaved Bra to a robin's egg blue. I think it makes the sweater look so much sexier. I also pulled out the darker blue in these great Blue Suede Pants from Celestial Studios, I really love the pant leg options wit these pants, flared, straight leg, or boot cut, how great is that!



Boots are the lovely *REDGRAVE* Smoke Leather Sculpties Boots, a really great pair to wear, whether full boot, or just the shoe parts under pants. I continued the antique feel with this fabulous Heirloom Necklace from Paper Couture, I love the small organza bow tied around the pendant, a lovely handmade looking detail. This great set of White Rattan Bracelets and Earrings Set from ::69:: again echos the blue details in the look, but gives it a little more of a jumbled casual feel. The rattan weave in the set echoes the weave in the sweater nicely.



I went back to Here Comes Trouble this week, looking for more of their fabulous Exclusive Two-Tones Styles. This Vesper style looks like a casual up-do from the front, and a messy punky ponytail in the back, I love that kind of dichotomy in one look. Another new to me skin from Canimal, this is the Essence of Ether make-up in the Grace tone, I simply adore the eye make-ups on these skins. Separated Lashes by Cake, and fabulous Brown Realistic Brights Eyes from **[Riddle]** round out this look nicely. Thanks to *Ki2* for the memories this great look evoked for me.

Shopping Details:
Sweater - *Ki2*, Lady of the Pins
Pants – Celestial Studios, (CS) Suede Pants (Blue)
Bra - *PERSONA*, Well Behaved Lingerie Pack, Bra (White Pearl, Tinted)
Boots - *REDGRAVE*, Smoke Leather Sculpties Boots
Necklace – Paper Couture, P.C., Heirloom Pendant
Earrings, Bracelets - ::69::, Rattan Set (White)
Hair - :HCT:, Exclusive Pack 1-Vesper ((Big)) – e2tp-1Black
Skin – Canimal, Essence (Grace)… of Ether
Eyes - **[Riddle]**, Realistic Brights (Brown)
Lashes – Cake, Separated Lashes

Olive You Twosome!

When I first came upon Twosome, it was at the now extinct Cherry Buttons Mall. I remember the delightful tops and stockings, and knew then that they were definitely one to watch. This adorable Matisia Retro Top from Twosome is really special. I love the olive colour, and the applique discs with different fabrics, it is really a great little top that does what I love best, thinking outside the box and using the limits of the system element clothing templates to create really interesting details. I paired the top with a simple but well made pair of Arvada Capris from Aleri Darkes. I was thrilled to finally be able to pull on a pair of the fabulous Maitreya Frenzy Banana clogs in Olive, this shoe is just too many good things, the texturing is incredibly well done, the colours offered are all lovely, and that curved stacked wood heel looks like it just walked out of the pages of InStyle Magazine.

Keeping with the Banana theme of the shoes, I was glad to have another chance to wear this Honey Leather Purse from Pampered Princess, which is a great banana yellow. I love bags and purses in-world, and I want more more more, it is like I am on a constant quest for the newest and the best handbags and clutches. Earring are a great pair of /artilleri/ Beaded Hoop Earring, these babies are must-haves for a casual earring, scripted to change to any of dozens of colours with a simple click. A nice casual grouping of bracelets continue the relaxed vibe of this look, this (Shiny Things) Brown Hippie Deluxe Bracelet has so many lovely muted tones in it, that it can be worn easily with any casual look.



This wig from (JUNWAVE) came to my attention courtesy of Blogger Extraordinaire Ana Lutetia, who dropped the landmark on me last week. I am a wear it once and maybe never again hair gal, sad but true I have close to 700 wigs, maybe more, so finding newness is always a treat. Ana assured me the hair was great, and the prices even better, so off I went. Pretty much bought out the whole (JUNWAVE) store, and my favorite is this Rough Up style. The colours and textures are great too. Skin is the ever awesome Canimal Essence, this is the Poison make-up in the Grace tone, with Separated Lashes from Cake and Realistic Bright Brown Eyes from **[Riddle]** complete the trio of essentials.

Shopping Details:
Top – Twosome, Matisia Retro Top
Pants - *AD*, Arvada Capris (Dark Blue)
Shoes – Maitreya, Frenzy Banana (Olive) [Review Copy]
Purse – [PP], Leather Purse (Honey)
Bracelet – (Shiny Things), Hippie Deluxe Bracelet (Brown)
Earrings - /artilleri/, Bead Hoop Earings (Color Change)
Hair – (JUNWAVE), NEO*ROUGHUP_OMAKE:D_L
Skin – Canimal, Essence (Grace)… of Poison
Eyes - **[Riddle]**, Realistic Brights (Borwn)
Lashes – Cake, Separated Lashes

A Pin-Up Inside and Out

The other day, while browsing the feeds I spotted this amazing wig from [Curio] on the Mundo Blog. The very first premium skin I ever bought was from Gala, and some of my first hair was [Curio], but I had not been back in ages. When I read the name of this wig though, I new I had to have it, Psychobilly Freakout! Not only a Reverend Horton Heat song I regularly play in my Rockabilly sets, but a whole aesthetic I adore. The style is lovely, with twisted rolls framing the face, and a variety of flower attachments (optional). The flexi ponytail in the back is really well done, and it has the lovely [Curio] hair texture and shine that I have always loved.

I have always marveled over the dresses produced by one of Second Life's most under-appreciated artists, Evelyn Edelman of Big Booty, Big Money. Her colour combinations and unique designs are just incredibly well done, and the selection and prices cannot be beat. This BBBM Inside Dress in Orange is simply enchanting. The detail in the texture on the skirt is exquisite, lace and thread and small butterflies, intricate and elegant. I paired it with some great **Battered Boudoir** Boudoir Legs in Fair Chocolate, just to give the look a little more polish, these hose are completely delicious. The hose perfectly set off these incredible new Pinup Pumps from Stiletto Moody. This pair is the Patent Color Set, which changes to any of 9 or so delicious hues, and are endlessly wearable. I really love the shape of this pump, the texture on the sculpt is so well done, and the prims are perfectly aligned, looking lovely from all angles.



I accessorized the look with a fabulous Swallowtail Sculpted Rose Necklace, that sits perfectly with the low strapless neckline of the dress. I also went for a chunky bracelet from Bonita's, this Cube Bracelet is a favorite, the sculpted beads are textures so nicely, I really would love to see move jewelry like this in world, it is a really special piece. The Tiffany Bag is from Mannon's Fashion, and I have no idea when I purchased it, or if I even did myself, it may have been a gift, just a cute little bag, I love the giraffe print accents on it.

The skin is a new purchase for me, more of the lovely Canimal Essence Skins, here in the Grace Tone Roses make-up. I just felt I needed more of the lovely make-ups then the 4 I already owned, this my friends, is how addictions get started. Eyes are the luminous Brown Realistic Brights from **[Riddle]**, and Separated Lashes are from Cake.

Shopping Details:
Dress – Big Booty Big Money, Inside Dress (Orange)
Hose - **Battered Boudoir**, Boudoir Legs Fair (Chocolate)[Gift from Eloria LeShelle]
Shoes – Stiletto Moody, Pinup (Patent Color Set)[Review Copy]
Purse – Mannon Fashion, Tiffany Bag (Black/Dark Giraffe)
Necklace – Swallowtail, Sculpted Rose Necklace
Bracelet – Bonita’s, Cube Bracelet (Black Shine w/ Org, Blk, Blue)
Hair – [Curio], Psychobilly Freakout *Flexi* (Black, with Front Flower – Tinted)
Skin – Canimal, Essence (Grace)… of Roses
Eyes - **[Riddle]**, Realistic Brights (Brown)
Lashes – Cake, Separated Lashes

The Money Shot

Weeks ago, while skimming the feed I noticed that Evelyn Edelman of Big Booty Big Money (BBBM) was closing her shop on Envy and headed for parts unknown. At the time I was busily planning the Sidewalk Sale on Retrology, knowing that soon after that I was going to be moving my own attempt at fashion (Hang The DJ!) into the Obscure Finds Flea Market on the next block. I just didn't have the time to produce anything, and my skills are lacking. It occurred to me then that I didn't want BBBM disappearing the way so many of my other favorites had. Evelyn has a talent for incredible Party Dresses and Innovative Designs, and her talent for colour combinations is outstanding. Many of her styles have a Retro Flair. I sent Evelyn a note card, letting her know I was giving up my shop, and if she was considering opening up again, I would be overjoyed to have her put up a shingle on Retrology.

When Evelyn responded, I was seriously surprised and overjoyed. She told me she was working on revamping her signs and vendors, and would be a little while, but that she was interested. This week, Evelyn (in a Sheriff's Costume & Handlebar Mustache) Swaggered on into the Shop and started to set-up. Her first items on the rack was the *NEW* amazing The Epilogue Dress, in 7 unique and lovely versions. I am particularly smitten with the Plumeggs version. Here they are, they sell for $195LaLas and include a custom pose in the folder too, but if you act fast, you can snag the Grass version by Joining the Big Booty, Big Money Wants You! Group in-world. But hurry, it will only be available while the notice is in the history. Tonight I noticed that Evelyn has placed another amazing dress on the racks, but that one you are going to have to go see for yourself. Big Booty and/or Big Money not required!


Plumeggs & Wheatie


Metal & Funeral


Candy & Awning


Aught & Grass [Group Gift]

Visit Big Booty Big Money on Retrology NOW!

Also Worn:
Shoes – Stiletto Moody, Silver Stud Sides Pump (All Colors)
Necklace – OPIUM Everyday, Beaded Necklace Set (Tintable)
Hair – Philotic Energy, Lysa (White)
Skin - *QS* Skins, Milk Skin, Disco 003
Lashes – [Detour], Klee Dot Lashes
Eyes – **[Riddle]**, Realistic Brights (Brown)

Riddle Me This...

On a recent trip to the Starlust Motel, I stumbles for the first time into Dog Town, I have no idea why I had never been before, but I was so happy to have found it. I particularly love finding new stores, new to me in any case. When I found **[Riddle]**, I was ecstatic. I love rock girl clothes, stuff that I can wear when I DJ, stuff I would happily wear in RL, and this store had that and more in Spades! It started with this great Plaid Shorts and Bikini Top set in Grey, so cute, with a real Gwen Stefani Badass feel to it. I was also drawn to this adorable red Guitars T-Shirt, since my man plays the Guitar, it made it an easy choice. If you have never been to **[Riddle]**, you must go, they have some seriously adorable stuff, a lot with Rock or Retro Sensibilities, and so much fun.

I always take every opportunity to wear my absolute favorite casual shoes, these great EnvYou Strapped Chucks, I have then in every colour they come in, about 8, and I love wearing them. The heel makes them girly and a bit sexy, but they also look like the practical Chucks that everyone loves. I wanted to wear some accessories with a lot of fun factor, and one that I have had for a while is this -[Kalico Kreations]- Cute Kitty Wallet, with adorable Flexi Dollar Bills in it. I also love this Rockabilly Cigar Box Purse from Caroline's, love that is contains the most impractical items ever, and kitsch is the clincher for me. I am also wearing some adorable Cassette Tape Earrings from Electric Jane's, a shop with lots of fun do-dads and wearables. The stacks of Jelly Bracelets are from Overdose & Punk by Proxy, and they are just the perfect casual accessory for this look.



This great short style is new from *Muism*, Mika is a sweet shaggy bob, really cute. This skin is a new favorite from Quelita Soon or *QS*, the Milk Skin in Dark 001, a lovely red lip and highlighted eye. Eyes are the expressive Miriel Hazel Eyes, with Photoshoot Lashes from MMS.

Shopping Details:
Shorts - **[Riddle]**, Grey Plaid Shorts & Bikini Top
T-Shirt - **[Riddle]**, Guitars T-Shirt
Shoes – EnvYou, Strapped Chucks (Red)
Wallet - -[Kalico]-, [KK] Cute Kitty Wallet
Purse – Caroline’s, Rockabilly Cigar Purse
Bracelets – [Od], PbP Jelly Bracelets (Black)
Earrings – Electric Jane’s, Cassette Earrings
Hair - *Muism*, Mika (Silver)
Skin – [QS], Skin Milk – Dark 001
Lashes – MMS, Photoshoot Lashes
Eyes – Miriel, Hazel Eyes (Big)