Blunt Fashion Sense

I AM Photo Contest! By Alexander Fine Jewelry

2011-01-26T15:10:00.000-05:00

If you haven't entered this contest yet, you need to drop what you're doing and get in front of the camera now! The prizes are fantastic! The sponsors out of this world and the chance to be famous... HUGE! Read below for the Phase One contest rules!

PHASE ONE

• Create a photographic scene showing off the beauty of both the model and the jewelry and expressing the theme of this month’s release. (for example, January is I AM BOLD)

• Upload your entry to the I AM Contest flickr group between the 15th and 30th of the month. (28th for February) http://www.flickr.com/groups/i_am_contest_by_alexander/

• 5 winners in each category will be notified in time to be announced in the next month’s issue of Scruplz distributed on the 10th of each month. Winning models will win a 1000L gift card to Alexander Fine Jewelry. Winning photographers will win 1000L each.

• This continues January through April to have a total of 20 photographers and 20 models who will continue on to the second phase of the contest.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

RULES

1. You must use the Alexander Fine Jewelry set of the month (i.e., BOLD in January). They will be announced each month on the Scruplz blog and magazine issue.

2. No other designer jewelry should be worn. This includes prim nails and jewelry in hair.

3. Subscribe to a Scruplz Kiosk in-world or join the Scruplz in-world group.

4. Photos should be 1024 x 1024 and full perm. No text on the photo. Model submissions will not be judged on post-processing therefore it is not required.

5. Photographer submissions will be judged on post-processing skill however you must maintain the integrity of the jewelry design.

6. By participating in this contest, you are giving By Alexander Fine Jewelry and Scruplz full permission to use at their discretion. Models please be sure you have full permission use from your photographers.

7. Submissions must be uploaded to the flickr group

http://www.flickr.com/groups/i_am_contest_by_alexander/

and labeled By Alexander I AM [adjective of the month] [category] [YOUR NAME]

ALSO put the full perm pictures in a folder with the same label and give to ScruplzMarketing in world and follow with an IM.

8. Each resident may submit a maximum of two pictures in any category (modeling, photography) but may only win once, in any category.

9. I AM contest is open to all residents of SL

10. Scruplz and Alexander Fine Jewelry reserve the right to disqualify any entrant who does not follow the rules.

Scruplz 50,000L Winning Photograph!

2010-08-09T16:31:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to Melanie Sautereau for winning the Scruplz 50,000L Show Us Your Sunshine Photography contest!

Scruplz August 2010 Issue!

2010-08-09T16:20:00.000-04:00

Pick up your copy at any Scruplz Kiosk or view the online version at http://issuu.com/scruplz/docs/scruplzaugust2010

Only 5 days left for the Scruplz $50,000L Photo Contest

2010-07-22T12:31:00.000-04:00

“Show Us Your Sunshine”
Scruplz Photography Competition

To celebrate the launch of Scruplz Publications, we are proud to announce the launch of the summer’s newest and hottest photography competition. We are searching for the brightest talent in SL to show the world just how good you are and we’ll show them INSIDE our magazine!
Scruplz announces the launch of this summer’s hottest themed photography contest, “Show us your Sunshine!”
All submissions will be reviewed by a panel of leading SL models, designers and fashion photographers to choose the photograph that demonstrates the best levels of artistic, creative and technical excellence in addition to showcasing the model that shines through above all others in terms of look, poise and styling.
Contestants should submit one (1) photograph corresponding to the category of this contests theme “Show us your Sunshine”. Each image should include only one model, no text except for the artist’s signature in the lower right, using size 10 Ariel font at 30% transparency. The entrant must have full rights to the image being submitted for consideration. Size specifications are 1:1 ratio, i.e.: 1024×1024 with a minimum of 150 dpi.
The photograph, in its entirety, must be a single work of original material taken for the purpose of this contest only. By entering the contest, entrant represents, acknowledges and warrants that the submitted photograph is an original work and the photograph does not infringe on the copyrights, trademarks, moral rights, rights of privacy/publicity or intellectual property rights of any person or entity, and that no other party has any right, title, claim or interest in the photograph.
The photograph must not, in the sole and unfettered discretion of Scruplz Publications, contain obscene, defamatory, sexually explicit, or otherwise objectionable or inappropriate content.
Submission of said photograph(s) will constitute full permissions given to Scruplz Publications to use as deemed necessary.
Only original as yet unpublished work will be accepted (previous publication via any electronic or print medium is strictly prohibited and will thereby be disqualified).
All photos will be submitted via email or in world. If submitting via email, send to scruplz@gmail.com. Name the photograph: Scruplz Competition – [name of photographer], [name of model], e.g. ‘Scruplz June Competition – John Doe, Jane Doe. In the email please provide all information regarding the content of the photography, i.e.: Designer name, outfit, accessories, pose creator, location of shot.
If sending in world, send to Cherie Parker in a folder. Name the photograph and the folder: Scruplz Competition – [name of photographer], [name of model], e.g. ‘Scruplz June Competition – John Doe, Jane Doe. Please include a notecard providing all information regarding the content of the photography, i.e.: Designer name, outfit, accessories, pose creator, location of shot.
Using photo manipulation software such as Photoshop is acceptable and encouraged with the exception of “morphing” which is strictly prohibited.
Absolutely only ONE photograph per entrant.
Submission deadline is midnight July 27, 2010.
Winning images will be published in the Scruplz August 2010 issue, on Scruplz website and/or blog and the Scruplz Flickr page.
By entering the contest, all entrants grant an irrevocable perpetual non-exclusive license to Scruplz Publications, and the owners of Scruplz, to reproduce, distribute, display and create derivative works of the entries (along with a name credit) in connection with the contest and promotion of the contest, in any media now or hereafter known, including, but not limited to: Display at a potential exhibition or online. Display or publication of any entry on an authorized party’s website does not indicate the entrant will be selected as a winner. Additionally, by entering, each entrant grants to Scruplz Publications the unrestricted right to use all statements made in connection with the contest, and pictures, or choose not to do so, at their sole discretion. Scruplz Publications will not be required to pay any additional consideration or seek any additional approval in connection with such use.
Prizes:
Cash Prize of 50,000L
Winning shot will be featured inside the August issue of Scruplz Magazine.
The winning photographer will be the exclusive photographer of the August Scruplz fashion feature for a major SL designer.
Winning photographer will receive a PhotoLife Certificate Valued at $9,900L

July 2010 Scruplz Issue and 50,000L Contest!

2010-07-12T08:52:00.000-04:00

The July Issue of Scruplz is out NOW!

Pick up your copy at http://slurl.com/secondlife/Mallory%20Cove/206/42/25
“Show Us Your Sunshine”
Scruplz Photography Competition

To celebrate the launch of Scruplz Publications, we are proud to announce the launch of the summer’s newest and hottest photography competition. We are searching for the brightest talent in SL to show the world just how good you are and we’ll show them INSIDE our magazine!

Scruplz announces the launch of this summer’s hottest themed photography contest, “Show us your Sunshine!”

All submissions will be reviewed by a panel of leading SL models, designers and fashion photographers to choose the photograph that demonstrates the best levels of artistic, creative and technical excellence in addition to showcasing the model that shines through above all others in terms of look, poise and styling.

Contestants should submit one (1) photograph corresponding to the category of this contests theme “Show us your Sunshine”. Each image should include only one model, no text except for the artist’s signature in the lower right, using size 10 Ariel font at 30% transparency. The entrant must have full rights to the image being submitted for consideration. Size specifications are 1:1 ratio, i.e.: 1024×1024 with a minimum of 150 dpi.

The photograph, in its entirety, must be a single work of original material taken for the purpose of this contest only. By entering the contest, entrant represents, acknowledges and warrants that the submitted photograph is an original work and the photograph does not infringe on the copyrights, trademarks, moral rights, rights of privacy/publicity or intellectual property rights of any person or entity, and that no other party has any right, title, claim or interest in the photograph.

The photograph must not, in the sole and unfettered discretion of Scruplz Publications, contain obscene, defamatory, sexually explicit, or otherwise objectionable or inappropriate content.

Submission of said photograph(s) will constitute full permissions given to Scruplz Publications to use as deemed necessary.

Only original as yet unpublished work will be accepted (previous publication via any electronic or print medium is strictly prohibited and will thereby be disqualified).

All photos will be submitted via email or in world. If submitting via email, send to scruplz@gmail.com. Name the photograph: Scruplz Competition – [name of photographer], [name of model], e.g. ‘Scruplz June Competition – John Doe, Jane Doe. In the email please provide all information regarding the content of the photography, i.e.: Designer name, outfit, accessories, pose creator, location of shot.

If sending in world, send to Cherie Parker in a folder. Name the photograph and the folder: Scruplz Competition – [name of photographer], [name of model], e.g. ‘Scruplz June Competition – John Doe, Jane Doe. Please include a notecard providing all information regarding the content of the photography, i.e.: Designer name, outfit, accessories, pose creator, location of shot.

Using photo manipulation software such as Photoshop is acceptable and encouraged with the exception of “morphing” which is strictly prohibited.

Absolutely only ONE photograph per entrant.
Submission deadline is midnight July 27, 2010.

Winning images will be published in the Scruplz August 2010 issue, on Scruplz website and/or blog and the Scruplz Flickr page.

By entering the contest, all entrants grant an irrevocable perpetual non-exclusive license to Scruplz Publications, and the owners of Scruplz, to reproduce, distribute, display and create derivative works of the entries (along with a name credit) in connection with the contest and promotion of the contest, in any media now or hereafter known, including, but not limited to: Display at a potential exhibition or online. Display or publication of any entry on an authorized party’s website does not indicate the entrant will be selected as a winner. Additionally, by entering, each entrant grants to Scruplz Publications the unrestricted right to use all statements made in connection with the contest, and pictures, or choose not to do so, at their sole discretion. Scruplz Publications will not be required to pay any additional consideration or seek any additional approval in connection with such use.

Prizes:
Cash Prize of 50,000L
Winning shot will be featured inside the August issue of Scruplz Magazine.
The winning photographer will be the exclusive photographer of the August Scruplz fashion feature for a major SL designer.
Winning photographer will receive a PhotoLife Certificate Valued at $9,900L

Show Us Your Sunshine 50,000L Competition Update

2010-06-30T11:12:00.000-04:00

Show Us Your Sunshine Competition Update

There appeared to have been some confusion with the entry method and some entries were not received due to this confusion. Therefore, a decision has been made to extend the deadline to July 27, 2010 with the winner being published in the August issue.

In addition, entries can be sent either to scruplz@gmail.com or to Cherie Parker directly in world.

For entrants that have already submitted photos, you may choose to resubmit a new photo to take advantadge of the extended time if you choose to do so.

We apologize for the mix up and wish all entrants best of luck!

Sincerely,

The Scruplz Publishing Group

———————————————————————-

“Show Us Your Sunshine”
Scruplz Photography Competition

To celebrate the launch of Scruplz Publications, we are proud to announce the launch of the summer’s newest and hottest photography competition. We are searching for the brightest talent in SL to show the world just how good you are and we’ll show them INSIDE our magazine!

Scruplz announces the launch of this summer’s hottest themed photography contest, “Show us your Sunshine!”

All submissions will be reviewed by a panel of leading SL models, designers and fashion photographers to choose the photograph that demonstrates the best levels of artistic, creative and technical excellence in addition to showcasing the model that shines through above all others in terms of look, poise and styling.

Contestants should submit one (1) photograph corresponding to the category of this contests theme “Show us your Sunshine”. Each image should include only one model, no text except for the artist’s signature in the lower right, using size 10 Ariel font at 30% transparency. The entrant must have full rights to the image being submitted for consideration. Size specifications are 1:1 ratio, i.e.: 1024×1024 with a minimum of 150 dpi.

The photograph, in its entirety, must be a single work of original material taken for the purpose of this contest only. By entering the contest, entrant represents, acknowledges and warrants that the submitted photograph is an original work and the photograph does not infringe on the copyrights, trademarks, moral rights, rights of privacy/publicity or intellectual property rights of any person or entity, and that no other party has any right, title, claim or interest in the photograph.

The photograph must not, in the sole and unfettered discretion of Scruplz Publications, contain obscene, defamatory, sexually explicit, or otherwise objectionable or inappropriate content.

Submission of said photograph(s) will constitute full permissions given to Scruplz Publications to use as deemed necessary.

Only original as yet unpublished work will be accepted (previous publication via any electronic or print medium is strictly prohibited and will thereby be disqualified).

All photos will be submitted via email or in world to. If submitting via email, send to scruplz@gmail.com. Name the photograph: Scruplz Competition – [name of photographer], [name of model], e.g. ‘Scruplz June Competition – John Doe, Jane Doe. In the email please provide all information regarding the content of the photography, i.e.: Designer name, outfit, accessories, pose creator, location of shot.

If sending in world, send to Cherie Parker in a folder. Name the photograph and the folder: Scruplz Competition – [name of photographer], [name of model], e.g. ‘Scruplz June Competition – John Doe, Jane Doe. Please include a notecard providing all information regarding the content of the photography, i.e.: Designer name, outfit, accessories, pose creator, location of shot.

Using photo manipulation software such as Photoshop is acceptable and encouraged with the exception of “morphing” which is strictly prohibited.

Absolutely only ONE photograph per entrant.
Submission deadline is midnight July 27, 2010.

Winning images will be published in the Scruplz August 2010 issue, on Scruplz website and/or blog and the Scruplz Flickr page.

By entering the contest, all entrants grant an irrevocable perpetual non-exclusive license to Scruplz Publications, and the owners of Scruplz, to reproduce, distribute, display and create derivative works of the entries (along with a name credit) in connection with the contest and promotion of the contest, in any media now or hereafter known, including, but not limited to: Display at a potential exhibition or online. Display or publication of any entry on an authorized party’s website does not indicate the entrant will be selected as a winner. Additionally, by entering, each entrant grants to Scruplz Publications the unrestricted right to use all statements made in connection with the contest, and pictures, or choose not to do so, at their sole discretion. Scruplz Publications will not be required to pay any additional consideration or seek any additional approval in connection with such use.

Prizes:
Cash Prize of 50,000L
Winning shot will be featured inside the August issue of Scruplz Magazine.
The winning photographer will be the exclusive photographer of the August Scruplz fashion feature for a major SL designer.
Winning photographer will receive a PhotoLife Certificate Valued at $9,900L

50,000L Photo Contest Details inside the June Issue of Scruplz!

2010-06-14T07:35:00.000-04:00

If you're interested in winning 50,000L then pick up the June issue of Scruplz magazine in world or online to find out how you can win!

PRESS RELEASE: Scruplz June Photography Competition

2010-06-08T09:45:00.001-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 8, 2010

“Show us your Sunshine”
Scruplz June Photography Competition

All submissions will be reviewed by a panel of leading SL models, designers and fashion photographers to choose the photograph that demonstrates the best levels of artistic, creative and technical excellence in addition to showcasing the model that shines through above all others in terms of look, poise and styling.

Contestants should submit one (1) photograph corresponding to the category of this contests theme “Show us your Sunshine”. Each image should include only one model, no text except for the artist’s signature in the lower right, using size 10 Ariel font at 30% transparency. The entrant must have full rights to the image being submitted for consideration. Size specifications are 1:1 ratio, i.e.: 1024x1024 with a minimum of 150 dpi.

The photograph, in its entirety, must be a single work of original material taken for the purpose of this contest only. By entering the contest, entrant represents, acknowledges and warrants that the submitted photograph is an original work and the photograph does not infringe on the copyrights, trademarks, moral rights, rights of privacy/publicity or intellectual property rights of any person or entity, and that no other party has any right, title, claim or interest in the photograph.

The photograph must not, in the sole and unfettered discretion of Scruplz Publications, contain obscene, defamatory, sexually explicit, or otherwise objectionable or inappropriate content.

Submission of said photograph(s) will constitute full permissions given to Scruplz Publications to use as deemed necessary.

Only original as yet unpublished work will be accepted (previous publication via any electronic or print medium is strictly prohibited and will thereby be disqualified.

All photos will be submitted via email to scruplz@gmail.com. Name the photograph: Scruplz June Competition – [name of photographer], [name of model], e.g. ‘Scruplz June Competition – John Doe, Jane Doe. In the email please provide all information regarding the content of the photography, i.e.: Designer name, outfit, accessories, pose creator, location of shot.

Using photo manipulation software such as Photoshop is acceptable and encouraged with the exception of “morphing” which is strictly prohibited.

Absolutely only ONE photograph per entrant.
Submission deadline is midnight June 22, 2010.

Winning images will be published in the Scruplz July 2010 issue, on Scruplz website and/or blog and the Scruplz Flickr page.

By entering the contest, all entrants grant an irrevocable perpetual non-exclusive license to Scruplz Publications, and the owners of Scruplz, to reproduce, distribute, display and create derivative works of the entries (along with a name credit) in connection with the contest and promotion of the contest, in any media now or hereafter known, including, but not limited to: Display at a potential exhibition or online. Display or publication of any entry on an authorized party's website does not indicate the entrant will be selected as a winner. Additionally, by entering, each entrant grants to Scruplz Publications the unrestricted right to use all statements made in connection with the contest, and pictures, or choose not to do so, at their sole discretion. Scruplz Publications will not be required to pay any additional consideration or seek any additional approval in connection with such use.

Prizes:
Cash Prize of 50,000L
Winning shot will be featured inside
the July issue of Scruplz Magazine.
The winning photographer will be
the exclusive photographer of the
July Scruplz fashion feature for a
major SL designer.
Winning photographer will receive a PhotoLife Certificate
Valued at $9,900L

Press Release

2010-05-07T10:27:00.000-04:00

********************
For Immediate Release
Scruplz Publishing Group
May 6, 2010
********************
The Scruplz Publishing Group is seeking ia layout artist for it’s publication, Scruplz. The right candidate will have working knowledge and experience of InDesign software and PhotoShop. Seeking serious minded professional candidates only. Please apply to scruplz@gmail.com with resume,salary requirements and examples of work.
The Scruplz Publishing Group
Barney Roundel
Cherie Parker
Emma Portilo
Mallory Luke

For more information regarding Scruplz go to http://scruplz.com/

Scruplz Publications May 2010 Issue is HERE!

2010-05-05T16:08:00.000-04:00

The very first issue of Scruplz Publications is now available! Feel free to contact Emma Portilo for a kiosk, hop by the Scruplz office at http://slurl.com/secondlife/Isoropia%20Paradise/205/42/25 or surf over on the web at http://issuu.com/scruplz/docs/scruplzmay2010 to check out the inaugural issue of Scruplz!

A huge thank you to all who contributed to our first issue! The Scruplz Team

PRESS RELEASE

2010-04-13T19:37:00.000-04:00

****************************************
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Scruplz Publishing Group
April 13, 2010
****************************************

We are pleased to announce the formation of the Scruplz Publishing Group. Scruplz is a new publishing company in Second Life whose mission is to provide photographers/artists/designers and anyone associated with graphics in Second Life with fair, honest and credible professional events and coverage. Part of this effort includes a professional monthly publication in which events and products will be promoted to the Second Life community at large. The publishing group consists of two of Second Life’s most renowned photographers, Cherie Parker and Barney Roundel. In addition two of Second Life’s best business minds Mallory Luke, and Emma Portilo combine to make Scruplz one of the most well rounded, talent laden new companies to arrive on the scene in Second Life.

Scruplz will be launching it’s first publication starting May 2010. The publication will feature art and photography of unparalleled, unique, and captivating beauty and style, bringing virtual art to the virtual forefront. Also featured in the publication will be a wide variety of contests and competitions from all walks of virtual life.

The exciting initial release will potentially be distributed to thousands of readers. It will be offered on our website at www.scruplz.com, at www.issuu.com/Scruplz, and in the format of an in world publication.

In addition, we have a kiosk system available to subscribe to in order to receive our publications and updates. The kiosk system can be found at the Scruplz headquarters at http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Isoropia%20Paradise/206/41/26.

Contact Mallory Luke or Emma Portilo for advertising, kiosk, or other additional information.

The Scruplz Publishing Group
Cherie Parker
Barney Roundel
Mallory Luke
Emma Portilo

OPIUM Fashion Agency Oops!

2010-04-08T13:54:00.001-04:00

For those who have asked me what happened to the photo used in the advertisement by Opium Fashion Agency in the April 2010 edition of Second Style magazine, the following recent blog posting by OPIUM should explain things.

http://opiuminsight.com/?p=14889

For all who have contacted me in world and out, I deeply appreciate your support and kind words.

If you care to see the advertisement in it’s original format, an arrangement has been reached between Anastacia Markova, CEO, Opium Fashion Agency, Romeo Torvalar, General Manager of Graphic Design and myself for OFA to place the ad once again in Second Style magazine for the month of May.

Should you wish to view the original copy prior to publication in Second Style, please feel free to see that here or on my flickr page at:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cherieparker/4482668389/

I don't like to boast about my own work. But I will say this has to be, of all the photos I’ve created, my personal favorite. I personally want to thank the following models who made this photo as special as I believe it is.

A huge and heartfelt THANK YOU! to, Katina Magic, Wicca Merlin, Pumpkin Saenz and Trouble Inglewood. You guys truly make this photo what it is and for that I thank you all.

Cherie Parker

Exclusive Studios

Real Life Headlines

2010-03-28T17:21:00.000-04:00

And just when you think certain headlines happen only in Second Life....

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/north_east/8570398.stm

The Bucket List

2010-02-15T08:38:00.000-05:00

Contrary to popular belief, I am still alive and kicking. Yes, while it’s true I haven’t blogged in quite some time, I am very much alive albeit it’s sometimes hard to tell being buried in photo shoots and Photoshop post production. However, I’ve really wanted to do this post for a long time and just now forced myself to “make the time”.

My typical day begins early and consists of me waking, drinking or rather, mainlining about ninety six ounces of coffee before I’m able to move on to some more rigorous tasks such as personal hygiene. Then it’s right to work on my PC picking up wherever I left off the night before in post production. I don’t spend a great deal of time in world anymore and unless I’ve got a photo shoot or the increasingly rare fashion show I model in you probably won’t see me online. Most of my time, up to 16 hours a day can be spent behind the screen processing one photo after another. Sometimes during this process and in order to keep my sanity I’ll stop and read the fashion feeds.

The other day whilst taking a moment and perusing the feeds I came across a blog posting where one blogger made mention she was under a form of verbal attack via Plurk or some other social networking place. She went on to say this attack now spilled over into Second Life gaining momentum and had quite the following of rumor rats. She didn’t really go into detail and while this is nothing new to Second Life and I’ve surely seen worse or at the very least more in depth public character floggings on the basis of “he said, she said”, it prompted me to do what I’ve wanted to get done for several months now. Giving me the virtual kick in the pants to write something I felt was important and make my “Bucket List” before I kick the bucket.

I said above I forced myself to “make the time” because, as humans we tend to say, I can’t find the time, I don’t have enough time, a lot. I’m no different. I am constantly battling the clock. And typically the clock wins and I lose. At the end of the day I usually find I wished I had done this, or that, had taken the time to do this rather than that. Many times I’ll fall asleep feeling pretty bad for not “making the time” for something.

So this is me now making the time for something I think we all should do more of and that would be, less bitching and more praise.

I have the great fortune to have a very long list of friends on my contacts list. Some you would recognize the names of, some you wouldn’t. Some quite famous for their in world creations and popularity, others you’ve probably never heard of they’re all equally important to me.

It’s from this list that I’ve been meaning to pull a few names, and give well deserved, long, LONG, over due, thank you, good job, and attaboys, to. And, I’m going to challenge each of you to do the same thing. Find those people in your list that are content creators, designers, scripters, builders that you know for a fact should be called out for being the great people they are and give them the praise they rightly deserve.

Seriously people, it’s just as easy doing something uplifting, inspiring and nice as it is to be disparaging and ugly. And trust me, it feels better to. So come on…make a list, pick your three, or four or however many you want and let’s hear why you think they deserve a pat on the back. Here’s my list.

1. Minnu Palen

You all know Minnu Palen and if don’t evidently you’ve been living under a virtual rock for a long time. The Lelutka brand is a driving force in the Second Life fashion industry. If you’re looking for top notch haute couture, you need look no further than the Lelutka brand. The people associated with and make up what is Lelutka have slowly but steadily built a major brand in the SL fashion market from clothing, hair, eyes, shoes to of course skins. Now none of this was accomplished overnight. And certainly not alone. Minnu has been blessed to know and to work with some of the brightest most talented people in SL. And they are fiercely loyal to her and with good reason.

Now I’m sure you all have seen her skin mentioned in just about every other blog posting of late. Her skinning creations are nothing short of stunning and continue to raise the bar with each new release. In addition, the creative forces behind Minnu are equally as talented and they all share a common thread. They’re all very quiet, hard working, unassuming individuals and some of the most bright, creative, talented people I know.

See while you may know the brand, the products and the names, what you may not know is what they’re like as people.

Minnu Palen by far as got to be one of the kindest people I know here in SL. She is always there for a friend and if she is your friend, you’re a lucky individual indeed. Minnu Palen is always ready to lend support to a cause. She never boasts or blows her own horn in what she does for others; she just steps up and does it. She is a strong woman with great determination and mad skills to boot. She’s kind, funny, wicked intelligent and not afraid to be original in thought and design. She is at the top of my SL hero list and all I can say is I am so very lucky to know her.

I had the good fortune to take part in the fashion show a couple of months ago releasing her most recent fashion line. I’m here to tell you that after countless numbers of shows I’ve been in and in working with dozens of modeling agencies and production companies, for the past three years, I have never been associated with one as comprehensive as the one Lelutka put on. By and far the most well organized and perfectly executed show I’ve had the good fortune to be in.

Minnu thought of everything. I’m not kidding. Everything was provided to the models from hair, shoes, accessories, to poses. Fittings were done individually to make sure each design was a perfect fit. When we walked out onto the stage there was no question every detail had been prepared for and thought of. Even the audience had special costumes to wear in order to keep lag to a minimum; it was awesome to say the least.

In addition to that, and I hope not to embarrass Minnu, this was one of the best compensated show’s EVER in the three years I’ve been modeling here in SL.

You see, that’s Minnu. She doesn’t look at the people working for her and think, “They should be happy to work for me simply because I am who I am”, that is so not her. Minnu values the people she hires and treats them in such a way as there is NO mistaking that fact. I will say it again, she is by and far the most generous person I know here in Second Life and truly I am a lucky person for knowing her.

I know by now Minnu is probably covering her face reading this but I wanted her to know how very much I value her not only as someone I work with on occasion, but as a friend. I want everyone to now know what special individual she really is.

I’ve asked Minnu time and time again if I can have her prim babies but to date she has yet to agree. I’m going to keep asking. And Minnu just so you know, I love you like pie and think you’re the greatest thing since flexi prims. ;)

2. Austie Pegler-Reasonable Desires

Ahhh... Austie… what can I say about her other than I just adore her. Well let’s see what more I can come up with. ;) You may not know her name but I’m pretty sure you’re familiar with her brand Reasonable Desires.

Austie and her partner Martini Joliat have been creating cute costumes and outfits as long as I’ve been here, I’m not certain exactly when they opened but at least since 2006. Together they’ve created a niche in SL costume work and more recently have secured a big following for their beautiful, sexy and sultry lingerie.

And while I love, love, LOVE their work, that’s not what I’m here to say.

You see Austie has been sending me review copies of their Reasonable Desires creations for a long time. Back in the day I had time to review and blog some of those items and had a blast doing so as they were always so fun to review. It was sooo clear they had a blast designing things like their version of Little Red Riding Hood, or Alice in Wonderland. But sadly since my photography business has taken off in leaps and bounds I have been unable to keep up with reviewing items. That hasn’t stopped Austie from sending me things. You know why? Because that’s how she rolls. She’s just that way. She’s a friend on top of being a creator. She knows I’m out of my mind busy. She has not once made me feel bad (although I have) about not making the time to blog a review on her items. She’s an amazing person, an amazing creator and a good friend. It’s never about how much someone can do for her; it seems it’s always the other way around. Again we’ve got a person here, a designer that is quiet, unassuming and hard working. She doesn’t ask for or have anyone blow her horn. But they should.

Austie and Martini create some of the most well designed comprehensive outfits on the grid. Their costumes are so all encompassing, providing every little detail to make the costume as complete as possible in every way, easy to just throw on and ready to go to whatever event you bought the outfit for. These two people must think exhaustively for every detail that goes into their designs. If you’re looking for something completely unusual and totally cool, then check out Reasonable Desires you may just find it there.

Beyond the great designs, past the longevity of the brand Reasonable Desires is my friend Austie Pegler. If you’re lucky enough to be able to call her a friend you’re a very lucky person. Kind, generous to a fault and funny Austie is one of those people you hope will never leave SL because you know if there’s anything she can do for you, she will. And without her here the grid would shine less brightly. She’s not just a pretty face mind you, she’s a great business woman and a talented designer. But more importantly, at least to me, she’s a great friend, one I admire greatly and someone I want to know.

Austie, I think you’re doing a great job, I love your work, I love you sweetie and I think you’re just the bees knees. J

3. Gospel Voom -Gos

You may not know this name or this brand yet. But mark my words it won’t be long before you do. While Gospel has not built a huge following for his brand quite yet, as he is another slow but steady achiever, he has some seriously mad sculpting skills and I’m going to say, put this one on the radar.

Gospel has a great profile. It reads like a who’s who of Second Life and moreover a wonderful resume. Gospel is a builder first before anything else. And the things he builds or creates are so awesome its just mind blowing. His 3d sculpted work is some of the best I’ve ever seen. The textures and clean designs he creates are simply top notch.

I don’t believe he’s gotten the recognition he deserves quite yet. But mark my words, if he keeps up this pace it won’t be long before every one has several Gos products in their inventory.

Gospel Voom makes things. Things like killer realistic watches, sunglasses and amazing Doc Marten boots. See the picture. These are seriously, visual eye candy. Just the most stunning boots. Each detail more precise than the next. I’m going to go with a guess here; he’s the OCD man of my dreams as far as working on something till the very last pixel is perfection. Truly, this guy is mega talented. There is no question he can build and texture at the top of his class. In addition, he’s also lucky to have people that work for him that again are quietly unassuming and possess mad skills such as scripting. Take a look at what you can purchase for the boots. A little can of shoe polish (and its soooo cute) that allows you to change the texture and color of the boots, the trim, the eyelets everything. He credits his scripter for helping to make these truly cool and fun creations.

Gospel and I met by some fairly funny means that I won’t go into here but suffice it to say he had no reason to trust me, as he didn’t know me from Adam. But after a few conversations and yes even some heated debates, it was clear that while we may not have a standard friendship in SL, we do have mutual respect and value one another’s opinions.

Gospel here you go buddy, you’re number three on the list of people I wanted to send a virtual “pat on the back” to. You deserve it and I hope others will come to know you and your creations like I have.

Well, that’s my list people. Let’s see you post some of your own now. Pick some people... blog em... tell us why they’re special to you, give them the pat on the back they deserve and pay it forward.

PS As always please forgive any and all grammatical errors. Thanks!

The Draw

2009-12-29T16:00:00.000-05:00

***Writers note: I wrote this article on Christmas Eve. Initially I had hoped I would not have to publish it. Primarily, I wrote for a cathartic medicinal purpose, my own. I had high hopes this thing to work itself out as these things sometimes tend to do here in SL. But unfortunately in this case, that didn’t happen. That’s too bad.

I received news from a model colleague that 24 models would be negatively affected by the actions of one of the agency owners mentioned below, when activities were stepped up a bit by communications made in a group chat last night by an agency employee.

Last night in this group chat, it was said by an employee of the “note card” agency that any models who had not left the “note card” agency modeling group due to their affiliation with another agency would not be allowed to walk in any shows for said agency. Why did this even come up? Because of recent casting calls and someone asking point blank questions.

You’ll be able to connect the dots in a minute when you read the following blog posting, don’t worry, it’s a continuing saga so I’m sure you’ll catch up quick. When I learned of these developments, I felt as if I could no longer remain silent. I truly had hoped that tempers would have cooled and the problems if not resolved would at least be kept between the parties involved in the disputes, and not involve innocent bystanders aka the models. But that didn’t happen either.

As a result it became apparent that 24, twenty-four, people are basically being used as pawns in a virtual game of tug and war. One side says you can work here; you can stay here as long as you want, but you won’t walk in any shows unless you leave the other side. The other side has made no demands to date.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m not taking sides here. I don’t want to. What I am doing is speaking towards negative acts, propagated towards people who have absolutely nothing to do with whatever this war is about.

I don’t care what it’s about. It’s not my business. What is my business however is the part I’m involved in as being a model for both agencies. More importantly being a human being and knowing there are 23 other people who will also be forced to make a decision they should not be asked to make. That said… here’s the blog.

You know… I really hate to do this on this day, the eve before Christmas. But dang if it isn’t burning a hole through my gray matter in attempts to get out.

Yesterday I received a note card from one of the modeling agencies I work for. While I can’t share the text with you out of respect of TOS, the initial paragraph expressed how deeply sorry the writer was for having to take the action for which they were about to explain.

Immediately I got that familiar old feeling of being back in sixth grade. It’s never good when someone starts off with something to the effect of … I really hate to do this but because this person did this, I have to do that.

To me that’s always a bad indicator. One that kind of jumps up and down screaming… I’m pissed off and I’m going to make everyone pay for it.

For those that don’t have a clue what’s going on, let me just try and lay it out for you so you can at least have an inkling of what’s happened.

Apparently two of the modeling agencies I belong to have had a... hmm... what’s the best way to put this… ok... let’s try this, a series of unfortunate events and communications.

Because the two conflicting owners and a couple of common employees of both agencies are having some disagreement/controversy/opposition/feud/clash/falling out/row/squabble/dispute and any other words my trustee lexicon of a thesaurus can muster up, one of the agencies has told all models of who are mutually associated with both agencies, they must choose which agency to stay with.

This was all said with some pretty flowery words and a smattering of just the right amount of anguish that intended to make the sting a bit easier to handle, by the recipient of said note card. In essence what it comes down to is, if we stay with the opposing modeling agency we cannot be a part of the agency that sent the note card.

Blinks.

Is it me or does this smack of the whole class getting punished for “Jimmy” not doing his homework?

I mean, don’t get me wrong. I know every person involved in this situation. Most are on my friends list and some are actually friends. Is it my business what’s going on or has gone on in this dispute? Nooooooo. Not unless someone wants to make me part of it and I say to you with a whole congress of impassioned pleas…. PLEASE do not make me part of it. ;)

Anywho… my point is why are we, the models who have had nothing to do with this getting punished? Most of the models from both agencies have been apart of this and many other agencies for quite some time and I don’t believe there have been any issues with the models themselves being a problem for either aforementioned agency. So why?

I’ll tell you why. Because someone is pissed off and wants to make a power play.

In doing so, this person virtually says, I’m going to show you how powerful I really am by making people take sides. They’ll take my side because I am who I am, I have power and they’ll hate you (the opposing side) because of having to make this choice… and those who don’t take my side will eventually pay for it anyway because I have the memory of an elephant and let us not forget, power.

Now come on, no business owner in their right mind in first life would take such actions. If they did, they know they would be laughed out of whatever industry they’re in because of such childish behavior.

What’s next? Will designers and other businesses be virtually blackmailed into taking sides? That would be really low. I sure hope that’s not the case but regrettably I think it might be.

Will I pay for this blog posting? Oh you can be pretty sure I will, yessireebob. Why you might ask? Because apparently this person doesn’t know how to make decisions based on the qualifications of and or act rationally towards the occurrence or incident in question. This person responds emotionally instead of intellectually. Freedom of the press you say? Reasonable expectations? Qualified decisions? Rational thought? Evidently that’s in low supply in SL.

So tell me... why is this accepted here? Why do people continue to associate themselves with others that are doing nothing more than the virtual reality version of bullying? That’s the part that kills me. Hey… I hear you, “I have a business, and I can’t afford to have it negatively impacted”… I have a business here to. And sure, this person could affect my business negatively for the rest of my SLife for me writing this blog alone, and sadly, mostly likely will try. But remaining silent for an action I see as so clearly wrong would affect me even more negativelyl. While I still have some self respect, a little moral compass that keeps ticking and some tiny bit of ethical conscience left, I’m not really willing to slide further down the evolutionary brain train with the owner of this agency and their ridiculous tactics.

You guys know me, well most of you do and I speak up only when I think there is something that needs to be brought out from the dark cave into the light. I cannot help but continue to believe that fundamentally most people are good, rational and fair. Naïve? Maybe. But I like to think given the opportunity to look at something from another perspective in some cases, not all, but some just might, result in a poorly executed action being recalled due to “my bad”. I like to think that if you’re wrong about something, if you’ve been rash, irrational and allowed your “big bully” from elementary school to make a crucial decision for you that when you’ve calmed down, regained your senses and wiped away the tears, one can see the error of their ways, stand up, suck it up and take responsibility while setting things right.

Now THAT would earn respect in my book.

Soooo... I’ll go ahead and put this out there because, while I may lose some customers, I really don’t want to lose any more self esteem.

This next part is directed at the owner of the agency who is imposing their will on and forcing 24 models to make a choice.

Dear Agency Owner:

Thanks for allowing me to be a part of your agency for as long as it’s been in existence.

I’ve had fun working with the people that are a part of your agency and I’ve worked really hard for shows I’ve been a part of, albeit personally it’s been awhile. I’ve always been a faithful and loyal employee and when given the opportunity I’ve spoken the name of your agency to designers and friends alike with great pride.

Having said that, I’m confused why you’re now telling me I can no longer be a part of your agency simply because you have differences with another agency with whom I am affiliated. Especially since I’ve been a part of both agencies for this long and as far as I can tell that has never been a problem in the past.

I have a few questions if you don’t mind. Why am I being punished? What good will come of this action? Is this a rational decision on your part? Seriously, will you take a moment to consider the rationale behind this? Ask some of your most trusted friends and colleagues their opinions and find out if this is really the right action to take before you instigate it? Oh, and by the way, it should be people who are not on your “yes men” list that way you get the most fair and unbiased opinions.

I’m asking these questions because one would hate to think you are simply reacting emotionally to a situation, using the old stand by of “I’m taking my ball and bat and going home” rather than giving this full and rational thought.

Now because I know you personally, I know you’ll read this and probably think… “What a bitch” and click the big red “you’ve been ejected from the group” button without hesitation. But just once, just one time I would really like to be wrong on that and think you’re smarter than the average pinto bean.

Anyway, Happy Holidays to you and yours, all the best to the wife and kids, etc., etc.

Cherie Parker

Ok... now that I’ve addressed the agency owner let me go ahead and just wrap this up because I’m feeling much better now, gotten this off my chest and can get back to work.

Let me know what you guys think. If you think I’m wrong… that’s okay. Like I’ve said many times before, we don’t have to agree on everything to like each other. I’m good with that.

Happiest of holidays to everyone and Merry Christmas to all.
Cherie

Models vs. Mannequins

2009-07-22T11:17:00.002-04:00

Ah modeling in Second Life. What can I say about this industry? Oh lot’s apparently. But first things first.

Girls, ladies, guys, let me just tell you something I used to tell the students of a class I taught in modeling on the very first day of class.

You’re never going to get rich modeling in Second Life. Nope, never. You will never become so sought after, so much of a star, so highly recognized that you will be able to support you, your family and your kids in the real first life, lifestyle you wish to become accustomed to.

Feel better? No? Oh, well I’m sorry if I popped someone’s bubble. Here, let me explain.

Modeling in SL is part of the fashion industry. Much like modeling in the first life. The difference is in the first life, models are highly paid, sought after individuals not only for their looks but their abilities as well. Make sense? Sure it does. One works hard to craft a certain physical look that is pleasing to the eye and suitable for showcasing a variety of fashions. Classes are taken to perfect a craft that will ensure one can not only walk down a runway without falling off but also know exactly what poses are necessary for print ads based solely on the style of the outfit given to wear. One also spends copious amounts of currency to maintain the most current trends and styles. So ultimately when faced with a runway show for a big name designer the designer knows when that model step out onto the runway not only will his designs be best represented but showcased as well. So, why shouldn’t the model be highly paid. They are, and it’s the right thing to do.

You see, people look at Vogue, Cosmo, Glamour and other fashion magazines to check out the latest and greatest new styles and where do they see them? On the backs of a model of course.

You know why? Sure you do. Because seeing them, on someone, styled complete with shoes, a hot new hair style, the latest handbag, jewelry that just screams I was made for this, and the most up to date, season shattering, you’ll be wearing this next fall makeup, sells.

And you want it. You want that look. The whole thing. The full Monty. You lust after it, you look for substitutes of it, and you want to emulate that look at almost any cost. Now... take that cost and multiply it by oh... I dunno... 5 bazillion. Well you do the math. That’s why models in first life are paid as highly as they are. They’re worth it to the designers, the advertisers, the magazine owners etc. Everyone makes money… at least in the first life.

Now see here’s where I’m about to make some enemies I’m sure. But lemme just say in advance I have no agenda here, I’m not out to get you… I’m not angry at the fashion industry in Second Life, on the contrary I love the fashion industry, I just think there are some things that can be made better, more equitable. And, I’m also curious.

You see, I’ve been a model in Second Life for oooh... I dunno... almost three years now and I’ve had the opportunity to see what goes on from this side of the runway.

Back in the day I kind of fell into modeling simply because I had a friend who was in the industry, and she was short a model for a RFL show, I had absolutely no idea what to expect.

Like many newbies I was clueless. Probably more so, because I had never modeled before, taken a class or done any of the normal protocol that most models do now. I was handed an outfit, (it happened to be a gypsy style) told to obtain hair that would best match the outfit, be ready to hit two spots on the runway and pose at each one, and that folks consisted of my formal training and entry into the modeling world of SL.

Well needless to say I fell some what short of the task at hand. Not only did I crash horribly during the show which btw left my avi attached to the roof of the stage flaying about like a bug stuck to someone’s windshield at 70 mph before mercifully poofing, but when I finally was able to teleport back I had one shoe, one bracelet and the biggest baddest gypsy style hair stuck up my behind. Yes, that was back in the day when if you teleported somewhere, and there was even the most minor of glitches, one could expect to harvest a variety of inventory from ones butt upon entry. Oh yes, and on stage of course. Ah… good times.

Anywhoo... I did finally make it through that show albeit I’ve developed an eye twitch that when I remember that day tends get a bit lively and animated.

So I’m sure you’re wondering how I ever got work again right? Well frankly so am I. I never will know how I got that next gig. Well, that’s not exactly true. I mean, after that experience I decided I wanted to model in SL, but I didn’t have the money to take a class and buy everything I thought would be necessary to complete my look. So, I made the decision to just work on perfecting the look I thought would be best suitable to the industry here. I bought 500 shapes… none of them worked… you know what I’m talking about, finally opting to make my own. I bought decent hair, skin, shoes and accessories. I found a runway walk and modeling poses that didn’t’ make me look like I was having an epileptic fit. I bought detail items such as eyes that didn’t spin, flash or say “want sex?” when I blinked. I purchased sunglasses, belts, tattoos and a modeling HUD.

It was about this time I found out I had no technical skills whatsoever when I couldn’t figure out how to work that modeling HUD to save my life. So… ever diligent in my goal, I did a search for, and I kid you not, “Nerds” in groups, joined an open one, and publicly asked in the group chat if anyone could help me program this mother @#&^%*$ing HUD and I would gladly pay them, or have their first born child. That’s right, my first modeling HUD was actually configured by a card carrying, pocket protecting nerd who actually came to my HOUSE in SL and walked me step thru step on how to use it. Now is that not so freaking sad? But let me just say to that nerd out there, who’s name escapes me now, if it had not been for you I may have entirely given up because I was so frustrated by that time I was ready to take that HUD and shove it up the ass of the sadistic inventor who clearly thought his marketing slogan of “so easy even a prim baby could do it” was clever. So thank you nerd wherever you are!!

Soooooo in an effort to make this epic novel a bit shorter, let’s fast forward a bit. I made it into the modeling world. Yep, I worked hard, spent an embarrassing amount of money on my avi, was diligent, showed up on time, did what I was told, didn’t cause any trouble, didn’t gossip, was loyal, honest and dependable. That seemed to be enough to push me forward to enough agencies and production companies to keep me pretty busy in the modeling world for some time to come.

Goal reached.

Let’s fast forward even more to today. Now these days, I don’t model as much as I used to. Primarily due to time constraints with running my own business in SL. But still on occasion, I like to toss my hat in the ring and work a show or two. It’s good for me, it keeps me up to date and keeps me in runway form. And again, it’s something I like.

However, recently I’ve found myself in the position of being the ear and shoulder for the collective feelings of many other new and long time models in SL. So I figured if I’m going to do that, why not be a mouthpiece as well. Since I’ve been told I have a big mouth anyway… yeah I see you in the back, put your hands down, I said I have a big mouth. But seriously there are some issues in SL in this particular industry that need to be addressed. I’m not saying anyone will do anything, or that anything written here will result in any changes but, it has to be said. Because people, I’m telling you its being said right now behind your backs and in some cases not very friendly, with some seriously hurt feelings and occasionally some very angry models. So I’m here willing to say what needs to be said at the risk of alienating some people.

Again, let me tell you all I have nothing against designers, modeling agencies, production companies or the likes there of. You’ve been who I’ve worked very hard for in the past and hope to continue to do so in the future. You guys know me, I’m not out to hurt anyone.

But here’s the thing. There is no consistency in compensation for models in SL. In fact, I’ll go so far as to say sometimes there is no compensation at all. Shocking I know but a fact. It happened to me just recently. Don’t ask.

Now modeling came about long before I less than gracefully entered SL, I’m not sure how it did but it did. I do know I’m certain I wouldn’t like to see photos of some of those early days as I’m not sure I would be able to successfully control the laughing because as bad as it can be now, I’m sure it was much, much worse then and forgive me but how can you not see the humor in watching a Ruthed avi, who’s model AO is not working, waddling down the runway whilst Right Said Fred sings “I’m too Sexy” only to finally glimpse just a bit of her designer shoes and hair stuck up her butt as she uncontrollably tips over the edge of the runway into a fake serene like pond obviously set for the ambiance.

Come on! Sorry… I don’t know about you… but that crap killed me. I spotted.

Dang, digressing again. Anyway, so someone must have originally said... this is a great idea. A way to get a product shown to a mass of people thus increasing sales and productivity. Perfect! I mean that’s the business model you want. Absolutely. But somewhere along the line something happened or didn’t happen when it came to compensating the models.

Maybe it was because there was and is a glutton of wanna be models… maybe because there were so many hungry young avi’s eager to break into the modeling industry in SL they skewed the compensatory framework, I just don’t know but something happened that allowed for agencies and production companies alike to compensate their models as if they were a very simple cog, an unimportant element in the process that is fashion design.

Frankly speaking I think it’s time the modeling industry here in SL had it’s own union, or group whatever you want to call it that ensures some standards in compensation, hours worked, rights for petes sake. Something that would represent the great number of talented, hard working individuals and working together to secure their rights. Yes, their rights.

Let’s be honest here. Some agencies pay as little as L$400 for models to work a runway show. Said show may include 4 or 5 outfit changes. Which everyone should know requires each outfit to be styled, including finding a skin that best fits the style of the outfit, matching that with complimentary hair, choosing the right jewelry or accessories, securing the right shoes that don’t fight with the pant leg or distort the already lovely cankle, spend countless hours on a pose stand flipping thru poses to choose just the right ones that wont distort the outfit but rather show it in its most complimentary way, show up for 2 or more rehearsals lasting no less than one hour and more often like 2 or 3, be able to retain a maze of a sometimes ridiculous runway walk pattern and walk order, wake up sometimes at 4am to show up for a print shoot to accommodate the photographer of the show catalog, put up with impossibly laggy sims where the number of people set to allow is maxed out insuring numerous crashes and failures, horrendous attachment problems, teleporting issues, screaming stage coordinators and any other random acts of SL I’ve failed to mention in the longest run on sentence in the history of inkslinging, all for the glory of $L400.

Yes, I realize the models receive the designs for free. Let me just address that here. We love you designers. In fact I would go so far as to say models are some of your biggest customers. So, no offense to the designers is meant in any way shape or form in what I’m about to say. Please know that in advance. But let’s face it, if I had the choice between keeping the dress with the enormous sculpty dolphin hat and matching set of fin shoes and taking Lindens I’m gonna go with the Lindens. No disrespect intended designers but I just don’t have any use for some of the items I model. As with anyone, our styles and choice of clothing to wear vary from avi to avi in SL. While one might just squeal with delight over the dolphin hat the other would just as soon take the $L.

But it’s not the designers that make this process break down. Frankly I think it’s a combination of agency owners, production company owners and the models themselves.
The agency/production owners are out to make money just like everyone else. They get paid by the designers AND receive the outfits for free as well to showcase their hard work. The agency/production company owners get the fattest cut in this deal. There’s no doubt about it. And yes in their defense they have to secure the venue, do the advertising and generally bring all four corners together, I do believe however they’re getting the lion’s share of the funds and it’s just not equitable. Now the models themselves are to blame somewhat because clearly they/we’ve become complacent. Accepting what they give us for the face time, the glory, and our name in lights if you will. And while for some that might be enough, it pulls down the whole industry standard for the rest of the models.

Tell me, does this sound right to you? I mean honestly. If it does, it does because you’re entitled to your opinion. But to me… it just feels wrong.

I’m not certain what other models are thinking while they’re up there on the runway, I can only tell you what I’m thinking after all the hours of work that culminate in me stepping from behind the runway curtain, hitting marks, changing poses, watching the model in front, and ultimately ending backstage again without major incident, but here’s what I’m thinking.

Have I successfully put together a styled look for this outfit that will make the designer thrilled/happy/delighted? Are the people here going to run out afterwards and want this entire look because I made it happen? (No, I didn’t design the outfit, but put together a “look”). Are my attachments correct? Will my next outfit attach with no problems. What are my next steps should X, Y, Z happen. How will I go on if I can’t make something attach and still sell this to the audience?

You see, I’m up there selling this for you designers. I’m up there to make your product and any other accessory products sell. I’m up there for you agency/production company owners to make you look good with the designers.

Could you reach your target customer demographics using a hairy guy avatar in lingerie? Ok maybe some of you could but… ahem… let’s stick with the usual and customary. How about a mannequin that robo-automatically rolled down the runway? Well, I think you get my point. So to you the designers I say choose the companies that are supposed to be promoting your designs carefully. You wouldn’t use a sweat shop employing child labor to design your clothing in first life… why would you accept less than the best qualified individuals, working for your goals, your best interest, showcasing your hard work in SL? And why shouldn’t those individuals be compensated accordingly.

To you agency/production owners. I’m not sure what to say. Because frankly I’m not sure you really care. I’m not trying to be ugly/snarky or pissy, I say this because if you did truly care, your agenda would be different. Your goals would include not only obtaining new clientele.. but keeping your loyal employees and fostering the relationship. Now I know it’s hard to take a step back and reevaluate your actions perhaps resulting in a pay cut to your own pocket. It takes a big person to look at the ugly about a situation and their involvement in it and stand up to make a change.

Now all you people in the back jumping up and down, relax. I’m not saying every single agency/production company here is Simon Legree, I’m just asking why can’t we have some uniformity, some consistency, if the DJ’s can do it, then there’s really nothing stopping the models from doing it as well. But first, people have to come together and be ready to say no, I’m sorry that’s not acceptable.

I’m under no delusion that this article will have any great impact on the industry, nor will it change the answer of the new girl fresh out of modeling school, But I’m hoping at least someone recognizes something in this, can lift a little knowledge from it, and maybe just maybe start somewhere to effect change.

I’m not a mannequin I’m a model.

P.S. Again my apologies for bad grammar, poor punctuations and misspellings :)

If These Walls Could Talk - A Challenge to Tenshi Vielle

2009-07-04T14:15:00.001-04:00

Preface:

After a conversation with Pixeleen Mistral about a one sided article written in her paper, she assured me that she wanted to have more than one side of this story. By her request I wrote this article. After I sent it to her , she never responded to any of my messages. I take this action to mean the SL Herald has no interest in seeing any other side of this story. photoLIFE will soon begin the task of getting a professional review from a journalist who takes pride and honor in their work ... that work will be pubilshed as soon as its available. Our product, the photoLIFE 3.0 is held in high regard by hundreds of users. I believe a full and fair review will indicate this as well.

If These Walls Could Talk - A Challenge to Tenshi Vielle

Allow me to introduce myself. My name is OomPoppaMowMow Snookums, the creator and owner of the photoLIFE Photography System. If you’ve ever heard the song “Elvira” by the Oakridge Boys then you probably recognize the name. Yeah… you're welcome. I know you’re trying to get that song out of your head now. I suggest the Gilligan's Island theme for that. Anyway, recently an article was published in the Herald targeting photoLIFE as a company that casually disregarded someone’s artistic rights and seemed to feel good about doing it, while just a few articles below, the editor of the Herald states in an article of her own that “The Herald adheres to the highest standards of journalistic integrity”. While I can say I feel very confident this editor purposes to uphold these standards, I’d like to address the standards held in the article about photoLIFE written by Tenshi Vielle.

Obviously me being personally involved I'm here to give a different side of the story. I commend the great editor for allowing it and offer a sound ear for any reasonable feedback. Rather than spend a large amount of time trying to convince you what we "really meant" by uploading someone's photos without permissions, or why it wasn't "really that bad", I'd rather take you on a different journey. One that isn't based on what my view is, but one that has been agreed to by all parties involved. Yes, that’s right. The photographer whose work was mishandled has agreed to all of the following points.

1. The photo that was allegedly being sold was actually a 20 meter long wall that contained a total of 19 other photographs from several other photographers all linked together, many of which contained the name of the photography studio right on the photo itself. The wall also had the name of the photoLIFE Flickr site written on it showing where these photos were located. Can anyone imagine who would want to purchase a 20 meter long wall of photos from photography studios around the grid? Common sense says nobody except maybe the owner of the photography studio used to make the photos would have a need for an item like that. Would You Buy This Wall? The photos appearing on this wall are all replacements by Team photoLIFE members so that the exhibit could continue in the SLBD event. We received 20 high quality full perm photos to use on the wall within 5 minutes of the request. Thank you Team photoLIFE.

2. The SLBD event does not allow any items up for sale. That fact alone should help suggest that this was a mistake. The builder of the wall exhibit used a prim from his inventory that had once been used to sell something. He was in a very big hurry to finish the build for me and never stopped to check permissions on his wall.

3. LL has reviewed the incident and the exhibit was corrected to comply with TOS. Intent has a lot to do with how something is handled. Doing photography in SL for almost 2 years and running a group of over 500 photographers we have never had a case where one photographer was stealing another’s work to profit, but imagine a 20 foot wall of photographs with the logo of the studio and photographers name on the front of most.

4. The individual whose work was taken without permission states that she never felt like the intention to take her material was malicious, but that if the other individual involved would have been more apologetic than this story would have never been told. Everyone involved agreed that this was not handled correctly and again new policies are in place to prevent this from happening again, but would the story have been as interesting to have heard the individual never felt it was intentionally malicious.

5. As soon as I became aware of this incident I contacted the individual involved to personally apologize. This was never written or followed up about but photoLIFE was portrayed to be as thoughtless and heartless as possible.

6. The writer of the article and the photographer involved are personal friends. Probably a good reason not to mention this one. Not giving full disclosure of these facts prevents the reader from being able to judge clearly how unsensational this story really is. Makes it harder to get those hits on the blogs, yanno.

7. The photographer had an already well known dislike for the photoLIFE staff. They've stated that this whole problem would have just gone away if the builder of the wall would have been more kind. While I do agree with that statement, I do believe the level of hostility was far worse due to the already strained relationship between the two.

Hardly the same story huh? You know these kinds of facts are hard to miss.

For me, I can understand why this photographer is angry. They had a right to be. I can accept the fact that a mistake was made and some public trust was lost. I will work hard to restore trust in the company I have worked so hard to create. What I can’t accept is not making every effort to make sure that all the facts of this story are told.

I have implemented 10 new policies that are designed to prevent this sort of thing from happening again. I have discussed this issue with the photographer on numerous occasions emphatically apologizing for all that was done wrong, and recently published a public apology, not for public opinion, but based on a conversation I had with this photographer. We have a relationship that is important to me. Yes, even after all of this.

While portraying our company in the worst possible light wasn’t good enough for the writer, her partner decided to join the fun and write a review of our flagship product on their blog. Can you guess where this is going? It's not really hard is it? This review was said to be a 5 minute “look” at our system. A system that’s estimated to have a 2 week learning curve got a 5 minute "look" without any demonstration from any photoLIFE rep involved. Nice review huh. I can see the creators around SL lining up for these 5 minute reviews now.

It’s no surprise it was less than stellar. The truth is the photoLIFE system is one of the most comprehensive available and 5 minutes can not begin to give a clear picture of what it is capable of. For any review ever done on the system, we offer a demonstration by someone who is familiar with it. We've had many reviews done and this is the first that wasn't absolutely 100 percent positive. I constantly get individuals contacting me saying how much they love their studio long after they’ve purchased it.

Anyone that knows me or has ever met me in photoLIFE will tell you that I don’t push my products. I often suggest that others go around SL and see what’s available, to take their time, and that photoLIFE isn't for everyone. Also, our customer service program has been said by many to be the best in SL and I'll proudly stand by that statement.

-------The Challenge To Tenshi Vielle--------------

A challenge for a full and fair review on the photoLIFE 3.0 studio.

The Rules
A demonstration given by myself at my home in SL lasting 1-2 hours.
The Editor of the Herald will be invited to attend.
Your review must be based on a fair perspective on what the studio actually does.
You can't use excessive profanity or strange versions of the words douche.
You can't be personally insulting.
No promotional statements of other products offered by other companies. Comparisons are fine as long as it’s not an obvious promotion.
The review must be written in a fair and professional manner not discussing outside issues other than the performance of the studio itself.

If you decide to accept the challenge you will be compensated for your time to stand for the review and the article you write. 3000L appears to be a fair price for these two things. You will also be given a gift certificate of the photoLIFE 3.0 studio to use yourself or give to a photographer friend for references during the writing of the review.

During the demonstration you will be able to bring one photographer friend along with you. This photographer must have been in the photography business in SL with a commercial studio in business for at least 90 days. We are flexible on this requirement but you can see it would make sense for a fair review of a photography studio.

If you decide to accept this challenge, know that I do have knowledge of you as a very talented and capable writer. I'd just like you to do it with full knowledge of the product.

Once your review is written, and it meets the criteria stated above, I will publish it in the Opium Sim blog and send it to the Team photoLIFE group. That's me being fair.

If the product sucks horribly you should be very excited about another opportunity to tear it apart publicly. It's my hopes that you'll see what over 1000 other users have seen. A studio built with the development and feedback of hundreds of photographers doing business in SL.

I look forward to your response.

LIFE is GOOD
OomPoppaMowMow Snookums

Skin Addicted

2009-07-02T16:18:00.002-04:00

Crabe, Carl Crabe. THE Carl Crabe, has released a new film he made called Skin Addicted. I had the pleasure of working with Carl in this film and I know all you Skin Addicts, Skin Whores and other random Skin-0-philes will love this so I thought why not pass this on.

Permission to post the link here granted by Carl Crabe.

Skin Addicted can be seen @ http://www.crabe.biz/

Public Apologies

2009-06-29T18:35:00.000-04:00

cross posted at http://opiumsim.wordpress.com/
re-posted here with permission from OomPoppaMowMow Snookums

To Darkley Aeon - 6-29-2009

Throughout the course of recent days much has been made of how your photographs were handled during the SLBD events by photoLIFE staff. I felt because of the amount of publicity that any conversations between us may be forgotten or not properly acknowledged so I felt it necessary to write this letter making it unequivocally clear the position of photoLIFE on how your photos were handled.

photoLIFE does not condone the use of any photographers photographs without their permission. I feel you were not properly informed of how the photographs from the Flickr site were used, and as a result, new policy has been put in place to prevent this type of occurance from happening again.

New Policy Change
"photoLIFE occationally uses textures submitted from the Flickr site for photography contest, and featured photographer displays. Those photographs on the photoLIFE Flickr site may be used during these types of settings. Those photographers posting to the Flickr site must now agree for any uploaded photos to be used in promotional settings of the Team photoLIFE group. The Purpose of this policy is to allow a smooth process to honor the work of individuals on the photoLIFE Flickr site. It allows our staff the ability to have your work posted in world for others to view without having to address each photographer individually which could take an endless amount of time depending on who is in word or not. Photographs uploaded to the Team Flickr site will never be sold or used for profit. Only display or contest purposes."

This policy was not in place at the time you were not informed about the use of your photos. I sincerely apologize for this happening. I hope that you see that efforts are being made to prevent this from happening again.

I sincerely regret the manner in which you were addressed in this occurance by the photoLIFE staff. New policy has also been put into place that addresses the way your complaint was heard.

New Customer Service Policy Clarification
"......If a photoLIFE user has an issue they feel needs to be addressed. It is the policy that all affiliates of photoLIFE treat each issue with the upmost care and respect........No desciplinary action should be made towards any individuals based on a formal complaint about programs or systems of photoLIFE..."

The final complaint that was made regarded the display your photo was on being set for sale. While I understand the implications behind such actions, I can not speak for anyone but myself in saying that photoLIFE has never sold the work of any photographer with or without asking.

After reviewing this case I have found that the nature of the item being set for sale suggest it was an error based on several points. The item that was set for sale was a wall approximately 20 meters long of around 20 photographs gathered from the Flickr group. Most of the photographs had the names of the photography studios from which they came from on them. The parent prim used in making the wall came from a product recently set for sale by the builder. The URL of the photoLIFE website appears on the wall. I know during our discussions you have agreed that you did not think the intended use of the photographs was malicious. While it is unfortunate that the wall being set for sale suggest an ill intent, I have no indications that the individual has ever attempted to steal or reproduce the work of any other photographer.

In regards to this incident , a new proceedure policy is in place
"....before the opening of any event, a review must be made by the owner or the general manager of photoLIFE to approve the site and or any displays that have been built or made for it. This review will check for any oversight or misplaced permissions that may be misunderstood or against company policy."

Finally, while I know this has been an unpleasant experience for you, for that I am truly sorry. Many people are not aware that we have had a friendly relationship and I know I can say I have always enjoyed the time we spent learning and discovering different photography approaches together. While I know relations have been strained, you are always welcome to be a part , however you see fit in the photoLIFE community.

LIFE is GOOD
-OomPoppaMowMow Snookums

Read All About It - photoLife Trial

2009-06-26T10:09:00.004-04:00

Have you ever noticed when a company does something wrong, makes a mistake, causes an error to occur the press is all over them like the bad smell on a three day old corpse? And of course then follows the ensuing crowds of people that trail the press in their own little car on the hate train express headed right for the business owner.

Every business owner in the world who has experienced negative press has surely had the same feeling of wanting to assume the fetal position, under a palapa hut, whilst listening to the sound of calypso music playing on a tropical island they’re hiding out the rest of their ostracized lives on.

I find this to be a strange occurrence. I mean, sure I know all about gawking at train wrecks and rubbernecking on the freeway during an accident, but what I don’t get is why you only get one side of the story in case of corporate mistakes. Then before you know it, this mob mentality that takes over. The crowd has lit the torches as they ascend the hill with every intention of burning down the castle in order to skewer and roast poor old monster Frankenstein.

So today I thought I might try something different. Thanks to the quick response team at the Shopping Cart Disco blog, I’m sure a lot of you have read the blog entries regarding a recent incident with photoLife and a Second Life photographer. I know I have. And as is the norm, SCD did not fail in delivering a quick one sided version of the story. Good job SCD.

I have to say though, I’m a little disappointed SCD continues to do that. I mean, seriously folks, how many of you out there make a qualified decision based on information from one party to an issue? If that were the case, we might still be debating the value of the round wheel.

I look forward to the day SCD decides to incorporate impartial reporting. Snort…oh dear… okay, I had a hard time keeping a straight face while typing that, but never the less, I do mean it.

In response to the SCD article, and those blog articles stemming from it, I thought I might take this opportunity to find out the other side of the story.

But before I start laying out the facts discovered, I want to ask you a question. Who here has not made a mistake? If you’re reading this, and you’ve never, ever, once made an error, big or small, please stand up… or contact me, I need to find out your secret to success.

Let’s be real. Everyone and I mean everyone has made a mistake. Some larger than others. Some were made because one failed to find out everything needed to make an informed decision. And some perhaps were made by simply making the wrong choice. Others still are just stupid, silly, run of the mill, facepalm; “I can’t believe I did that” kind of mistakes. Hell, if any one of you haven’t done any of these, you’re God and I want to meet you.

In the case of the incident I’m going to address, what we have here is, and forgive me for the possible inference to a movie with the following string of words but, an unfortunate series of events. A whole slew of mistakes that just seemed to hit at the wrong time at the wrong place.

But let’s get down to the facts as I know them.

Everyone knows SLB6 is going on right now. Happy Birthday SL! And photoLife like many other in world companies has a booth. This booth has their latest product which happens to be the photoLife 3.0 photo studio. In addition to that, it was thought that displaying photos from some of the photoLife owners would be a nice touch to show not only the great photography but promote the studio as well. No shame there, it’s done all the time in business.

Evidently in trying to get everything set up for their SLB6 booth, photoLife used some photos from the Team photoLife flickr site without asking permission. Mistake number one.

Why you might ask? Well, many times before at other photoLife events, the very same thing has been done. So in other words because it had been done before, doing it again would seem a natural thing to assume was okay since it had never been an issue in the past. Of course we all know now, that’s probably not the smartest business practice.Anyway, the idea always being not only will it help promote the capabilities of the photo studio, but the talent of the photographer as well. It’s a symbiotic relationship, many businesses have them. Nothing new there.

Some photographers were contacted and asked if they wanted to provide a photo for the photo wall at the photoLife SLB6 booth and others were not. Mistake number two.

Why? Well, that’s just it, it was a mistake. Perhaps made in haste, perhaps whilst trying to finish building the booth, coordinate the set up, answer customer service calls, etc. Whatever, it was an error plain and simple.

Mistake number three is by far in my opinion the biggest and most stupid mistake of all. Yes, I said stupid. Because it was. Do I mean the person that made the mistake is stupid? No. On the contrary, but lord knows even Einstein made a stupid mistake or two in his lifetime.

Number three was the wall that was put out to hold the photos. It was taken from a photoLife associates inventory, a pre-made wall he had used prior to SLB6, then it was set up at the photoLife booth, photos were applied to it in prims, and it was on display for the whole grid to see. In addition to that… it was also set to sell… for $10L. NOT $1000L that has been reported.

Now, I personally found this mistake to be of interest to me. How many of you have gone frolicking through Second Life, shopping contentedly when you happen upon the cutest little French living room suite, (or your object of desire of choice) clicked the object to see how much it was selling for, positive it was too much only to see $10L as the sale price? Well? How many? I’ve been here three years and that’s happened to me more times than I can tell you. I mean sure, you know full well it is a mistake, the owner forgot to reset the sale price from the standard $10L setting it to whatever price they really want to sell it at. Have I ever bought items marked this way? Yes, I’ll admit I have. I mean how often can you get a full set of antique French living room furniture for $10L? Was it right? Nooooo. So okay, my conscience finally got the better of me and I make it a practice to alert the store owner now.

But that’s the thing, seeing that $10L price on a wall, not the prims holding the photos mind you, but the wall itself, a big, lumbering long single wall should set off the light bulb over your head that this sir is a mistake.

But apparently an owner/creator of one of the photos on the wall at the photoLife SLB6 booth, took this to mean something entirely different. In fact, meaning that her photo was up for sale and took mighty offense to that. Hey, I understand that. If I saw one of my photos up for sale somewhere I’d be up in arms too. But we all interpret things differently, easy to understand why she might be upset, especially if in fact all three mistakes were made sequentially. And it is possible for the general public to be unaware that you’re not allowed to sell anything at SLB6.

So, as events go, this photographer who happens to live on a different continent than that of the photoLife associate involved in this occurrence, sends an instant message to him with a query as to why her photo is up on this wall for sale. The rest of the conversation you can read as posted verbatim on the SCD blog.

First let me just start by saying I’ve read that conversation a few times. I can honestly tell you that my first reaction was; wow… could he have been less of a customer service representative? Dang, I think not. I mean without a doubt the photographer was due better service, more grace and less snarkyness. But after thinking about it for some time, I decided to ask the photoLife associate exactly why it went down that way. I wanted to know because I know this guy. And as long as I’ve known him, I’ve only known him to be more than helpful, always friendly and always willing to lend a hand no matter what. So no one was more surprised than me by the way this read because it seemed so out of character for him. Of course I realize that a text based environment tends to loose a bit in the translation but still it did come off rather frigid and I thought I really need to know if I’m missing something here.

After talking to him for awhile, I recognized the need to be a bit more understanding as it was 4am his time when this occurred. Asleep in a recliner near his computer he heard the ding of an instant message. For a moment he thought about going back to sleep but came to see what it was.

Mistake number four. Never, ever talk to anyone, a client, a friend, a family member, a wife, lover, dog, a neighbor and surely not an unhappy person at 4am in the morning when not fully awake, tired, grumpy or whatever. Always a bad idea. Always. Just keep snoring. Oh and, the now infamous “belch” that keeps being referred to, I asked about that. Apparently when the photoLife associate was woken, he didn’t realize his mic was still on and as human bodies do sometimes, his released some excess gas by way of a belch. Frankly I think everyone’s lucky he didn’t fart. But that’s just my opinion. God, I hope I never leave my mic on when I’m unaware. But anyway, does he regret how this situation played out? Yes, indeed he does. And I believe he has made every attempt to apologize to the photographer in question.

Having said that, by now you can see where I get the reference to an unfortunate series of events.

1. Using a photo without permission

2. Failure to contact ALL parties to ask permission

3. Inadvertently placing a prim out that is set for sale WITH someone else’s photo on it that had no permission

4.Opening mouth and inserting foot otherwise being less than gracious

As soon as all of this was brought to the attention of the owner of photoLife, Oompoppamowmow Snookums, he and his team immediately set into place new policies to prevent these mistakes from happening again in the future. In addition, apologies were made to the person involved for the improprieties and Linden Lab was consulted with and presented all information for their opinion. According to O. Snookums, LL has found this to be, as stated a mistake. An error. An unfortunate series of errors. NOT intentional and not malicious.

Now, knowing all of this and of course assuming you believe this to be the truth, which I do. Is the company guilty enough to deserve to be treated like pariah? Tell me, because I really would like to know the answer to what a company can do in reparation if in fact they’ve made mistakes like these. What would be to the satisfaction of the public? It appears Oom sincerely tried to admit to the mistakes, take responsibility and apologize in a response he made on the SCD blog, but wow people, you really let him have it. He was cooked, ate, digested and expelled within five responses to his public admission to what happened. So tell me, what exactly would suffice? A liver? A kidney? First born male child?

The best part and I’m being sarcastic is, even after he apologized, stated what happened, admitted the mistakes, a lot of people just kept picking at the wound. Let’s not stop there the thread read, let’s all pull out our bag of unhappiness and sprinkle it around some. Meaning, after that public apology there were plenty of instances of people regaling why they were unhappy with him. “Yep, I was unhappy when he did this… or didn’t do that…, I got screwed because of this, or I was not paid attention to when I thought I should be”. Wow, God help us all if this is the way things are handled by the public in the physical world. Personally I hope I get a more mature judge and jury when it’s my turn.

Well according to the blog responses I read, it appeared nothing short of OomPoppaMowMow’s head on a platter or worse would make people happy. It’s unconceivable to me, the amount of venom spewed and guilt found so easily to where only a public lynching would suffice and the crowd then silenced. I just don’t get it. Every business owner, hell every person has people they don’t get along with, or have had issues with. These people typically wait for the right time, just the right circumstances to crawl out of the wood work index finger stiff in the pointing gesture telling the entire world why they hate said business owner/person and you should to.

I always hoped that SL would have a better societal practice, different than what we see in RL, but sadly that has not turned out to be the case.

So again, I’m going to ask you to dig deep, look at yourself in the mirror, perhaps looking where you’ve chosen not to look before because it’s ugly and easy to avert your eyes. Have you made a mistake? Are you guilty of doing something rashly? Have you taken advantage of a situation (think $10L furniture)? Have you mistakenly done something due to lack of life experience? Have you inadvertently done something wrong? Have you set up a business and never had to make changes to it because it was perfect from day one? If any of you can say yes or you’re not guilty, then you’re indeed the lucky ones, you’re perfect. I’m not. And apparently neither is photoLife. I’ve made mistakes and I continue to make them, but thankfully most are new mistakes. I try and learn from each one as most of us do. As most of you know me, I’m not malicious or spiteful, it serves me no purpose and I honestly do not believe this incident was in any way malicious or spiteful.

I’ve known O. Snookums, since his very first creation of photoLife and I can tell you that while he is surely not perfect, and we may not always agree on everything, I can say with assurance he has integrity. He’s one of the hardest working people I know on the grid, and he’s one of the most honest. In addition, he’s one of the few business owners on SL that still makes house calls. At any given time I’ll see someone on the PL group chat box ask for help with this or that on their studio. If Oom’s online, I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve seen him respond with, “tp me”. Tell me how often you get that kind of service now days. In addition his staff are some of the most friendly, helpful people I know. Geezus… Colleen Criss, photoLife’s General Manager gives me a freaking cavity every time I talk to her she’s so sweet.

I guarantee you I could not keep up the kind of patience these people do, admittedly I am not equipped.

Now for full disclosure I should tell you that I’m currently CCO of Opium Fashion Agency a company partially owned by OomPoppaMowMow Snookums. I’ve also worked for photoLife in the past, but not currently. I’m a certified photoLife photographer and a member of some of the photoLife groups. Does this mean I would write this, wholeheartedly believing it to be the truth if I didn’t? Absolutely not. In fact, Oom knows if I don’t agree with something, I’m going straight to him and we’re going to talk about it. I am not a yes woman, never have been never will be. If I felt for one second this was a malicious act, a sneaky attempt to make money I would be the first one in his face reading him the riot act.

But I don’t and I’m not. And I’m not writing this to convince anyone of anything, simply to state my opinion and encourage people to see both sides before forming their own opinion.

I firmly believe all facts should be presented before making a decision. In this case for me at least, it’s fairly clear that this was an unfortunate occurrence and no one was intentionally set out to be taken advantage of, hurt or used. It’s kind of sad actually, because truly I believe had the conversation between the photoLife associate and the photographer been different I would not be writing this now. Had he just said something to the effect of, “omg I didn’t realize that prim was set for sale! I’m so sorry, I’ll take care of that right now! God I feel like such a moron, thanks soooo much for bringing that to my attention”, this would have been a mute point. But, alas that didn’t happen, and I’ve already covered why. And because those words were not chosen, the smack down train was loaded and the circus came to town blowing this way out of proportion.

Anyway, thanks for reading. Please forgive me in advance for any grammatical butchering as everyone knows I'm grammar challenged. I now return you to your normally scheduled broadcast. Oh, by the way, the opinions voiced here are mine and mine only, they may not represent those of the general public, the staff, management, or my cat, there that’s my disclaimer. ;)

Thank you!

2009-01-26T18:59:00.002-05:00

Second post of the day to say thank you. Thank you to all you couples pose makers, and you know who you are, that are putting pictures in with your poses. Heaven knows I have balls... not those you pervs... couples pose balls... in my inventory. ;) I have a million... okay, maybe not a million but enough to make me think there is.

In the beginning, I had great plans to make this neat little storage area for all my couples pose balls. With little pictures above them for people to pick and choose from... but as prim space would have it, my prim space that is, that just didn't work out. Sooooo having the photos makes a world of difference, so THANK YOU!

But... and there is always a but... let me just say... if there is anyone out there, someone, a nerd, a geek, a code god... anyone that has the ability to make a stand, where I can just drop alllllllll my little couples pose balls into it without having to re-write War and Peace I would name my first born child after you. Seriously... I'm not kidding. On the top of my wish list is a stand that I can use for all my couples poses that even a technically handicapped person such as myself could use.

Sooooo... if you know of one... or someone, call me... IM me, note card me, hell send a carrier pigeon just contact me.

Exclusive Studios

2009-01-26T11:14:00.001-05:00

My bestest, bestest boy toy Fricker Fraker made me a new toy! I love it and I love him he's the sweetest, most technologically advanced geek I know! Soooo without further ado... some shameless self promotion for my photography studio. :)

Away For The Holidays

2008-12-25T09:25:00.000-05:00

Well folks, just a quick note to say, I hope you all have a wonderful, and very Merry Christmas. I'll be away for a week as the holidays are upon us. Should you need to contact me just drop me a notecard in world and I'll get back to you as soon as I can.

Thanksgiving Memories

2008-11-27T19:14:00.000-05:00

When I was a child, one of the best Thanksgiving’s ever for me was the one I spent at the Salvation Army.

Yes, the Salvation Army. My parents decided one year instead of feeding our own faces we would help feed others. They signed up to participate in the Thanksgiving dinner offered to the homeless, the poor, and any others that could not manage to have a Thanksgiving dinner.

I knew from watching television that many places would do events such as these and you could see people standing in a line serving the community of people that would file past each one receiving a spoonful of this, a helping of that.

So when we got there I was excited to think this is what we would be doing. Instead, there were already too many volunteers there that had secured the front seat positions in serving. They had no interest in doing the cooking, the cleaning, busing the tables. And they were not shy about vocalizing that point. But my father said to the woman in charge “we’re here to work, just put us where you need us”. At first I was disappointed. I wanted to be one of those in the line serving people. You know, show up randomly on TV looking like a great humanitarian. But that wasn’t to be.

It didn’t take long for me to realize no matter what job they put me to do it was really a gift, a blessing. What I saw and experienced that day has not left me. I learned the beauty of helping others by stringing green beans by washing dishes, by mopping the floor and by taking out the trash.

Each person served there that day had a story to tell only not by voice but upon their faces. I was touched by each one and hoped in some small way the work we did there that day would bless them in the way I felt blessed.

As we finished up and the line of people slowed to a trickle, the woman in charge told us we were welcome to take plates for ourselves. As a kid, I didn’t have to be told twice, I hurried up and loaded up on each item and carefully wrapped my plate in Saran Wrap to take my treasure home with me.

Soon a new wave of people showed up, yes they were late to the party but it was obvious they were cold, and hungry. The workers had all taken plates and the line servers had left. There was very little food remaining. All but three of those people got served and the food ran out. My family and I each had a plate. My father didn’t hesitate to hand over his plate to the man, my mother gave hers to his son. Seeing this I looked at my prize I had so carefully collected and with a slight pang I handed over my plate to the woman with them. I’m not a good enough writer to describe the looks on their faces. The gratefulness in which they were so obviously filled with. I only know for certain, it did make a difference.

It was by far the best Thanksgiving I have ever had in my life. I am thankful for many things and I am blessed in many ways. Thank you mom and dad, you guys are the best examples of fine human beings and I love you both dearly.

In closing, it is my hope, my wish and my most sincere desire that you have all had a wonderful Thanksgiving with your families today.

I Don't Care

2008-11-24T19:04:00.002-05:00

I know it’s been a long time since I’ve blogged, but I have a valid reason. I’ve been busy. Taking “your” photographs, and processing “your” pictures. I love it really. My job is the greatest. I meet great people, always happy to be photographed and I get to practice my art which is one of my all time favorite things to do. But that’s not why I’m writing this blog installment.

Recently, whilst minding my own business, going through props and sorting texture backgrounds I received a note card. Now that’s not all that unusual as I indicate in my profile to drop me a note card for scheduling shoots and whatnot. But this note card was not about a photo session.

Instead this note card contained a copy and pasted conversation between the person that sent the note card and someone I know only by group association. I don’t even know the person who sent the note card.

In the card it was clear these two were having a disagreement. About what I don’t know and frankly I don’t care. The point here is, someone took it upon themselves out of anger, frustration, childish immaturity I don’t know, to send out to me and god only knows how many other people a snippet of an argument evidently in an attempt to shame the other person.

Now for those who don’t know me, let me just be blunt here. First, I don’t care about your disagreements, your arguments, your passionate idealistic quarrels with one another. Those conversations are yours and the other persons and I have no need to be involved in it. Furthermore, I don’t want to be involved. I won’t take your side, I won’t take theirs, and I won’t pass the information along to anyone for any reason period.

The only thing you’re accomplishing by sending me a sampling of your war is to make yourself appear even more childish, immature and pitiful than you already are. I mean really now, how old are you, 12? Is this third grade? Is that what you do in your first life? Geez if it is, I’m thankful I don’t know you.

But I digress. I’m simply here to tell you, in the future, should you choose to make the same idiotic mistake again, please remove my name from your broadcast spam before sending out the text from your next juvenile squabble. Remember, I don’t care what your beef is, I don’t care who you think you are… if I don’t know you, I don’t care about you or your petty little war.

That’s it for now. Thanks for listening. Remember, let’s keep it safe out there… always wear a condom and all that good stuff. Not that, condoms have anything to do with this but it seemed I should remind you all of something important as this surely wasn’t.

Runway Kidz Model Auction CANCELLED

2008-09-21T12:05:00.001-04:00

Hey evyerone!! FYI! The Runway Kidz Model Auction scheduled for today is being cancelled and rescheduled for a later date. Please follow the blogs for more updates soon!

Cherie Parker

Oh Happy Day

2008-09-09T18:55:00.002-04:00

I don't normally do this, but a good friend of mine sent this to me and I just felt it screamed to be shared. Not only is it one of the funniest things I've read in a long, long time but it's undeniably true and accurate.

I know many of you ladies will applaud this article wholeheartedly. Enjoy.

This is an actual letter from an Austin, TX woman sent to American company Proctor and Gamble regarding their feminine products. She really gets rolling after the first paragraph. It's PC Magazine's 2007 editors' choice for best webmail-award-winning letter.

Dear Mr. Thatcher,

I have been a loyal user of your 'Always' maxi pads for over 20 years and I appreciate many of their features. Why, without the LeakGuard Core or Dri-Weave absorbency, I'd probably never go horseback riding or salsa dancing, and I'd certainly steer clear of running up and down the beach in tight, white shorts.

But my favorite feature has to be your revolutionary Flexi-Wings. Kudos on being the only company smart enough to realize how crucial it is that maxi pads be aerodynamic. I can't tell you how safe and Secure I feel each month knowing there's a little F-16 in my pants.

Have you ever had a menstrual l period, Mr. Thatcher? I'm guessing you haven't. Well, my time of the month is starting right now. As I type, I can already feel hormonal forces violently surging through my body. Just a few minutes from now, my body will adjust and I'll be transformed into what my husband likes to call 'an inbred hillbilly with knife skills.' Isn't the human body amazing?

As Brand Manager in the Feminine-Hygiene Division, you've no doubt seen quite a bit of research on what exactly happens during your customer's monthly visits from 'Aunt Flo'. Therefore, you must know about the bloating, puffiness, and cramping we endure, and about our intense mood swings, crying jags, and out-of-control behavior... You surely realize it's a tough time for most women.

The point is, sir, you of all people must realize that America is just crawling with homicidal maniacs in Capri pants... Which brings me to the reason for my letter.

Last month, while in the throes of cramping so painful I wanted to reach inside my body and yank out my uterus, I opened an Always maxi-pad, and there, printed on the adhesive backing, were these words: 'Have a Happy Period.'

Are you f------ kidding me? What I mean is, does any part of your tiny middle-manager brain really think happiness - actual smiling, laughing happiness, is possible during a menstrual period? Did anything mentioned above sound the least bit pleasurable? Well, did it, James? FYI, unless you're some kind of sick S&M freak, there will never be anything 'happy' about a day in which you have to jack yourself up on Motrin and Kahlua and lock yourself in your house just so you don't march down to the local Walgreen's armed with a hunting rifle and a sketchy plan to end your life in a blaze of glory.

For the love of God, pull your head out, man! If you have to slap a moronic message on a maxi pad, wouldn't it make more sense to say something that's actually pertinent, like 'Put down the Hammer' or 'Vehicular Manslaughter is Wrong'.

Sir, please inform your Accounting Department that, effective immediately, there will be an $8 drop in monthly profits, for I have chosen to take my maxi-pad business elsewhere. And though I will certainly miss your Flex-Wings, I will not for one minute miss your brand of condescending bullshit. And that's a promise I will keep. Always.

Best,
Wendi Aarons
Austin, TX

I Am For Sale

2008-08-26T17:38:00.003-04:00

Yes, that's right, you heard me... I am for sale. Well at least as far as a 2 hour date goes. I'm up for auction for the Autism Society of America! You can win a date with me or your favorite model of choice just by being the highest bidder! So head on down to the slurl listed below and bid on any of the beautiful models listed.

Remember, your lindens can make a difference. Thank you.

http://slurl.com/secondlife/slillustrated/231/19/27

Cherie Parker

Afflicted

2008-08-24T11:23:00.003-04:00

I’ve been Afflicted. Miles Noriega and Atiya Masala afflicted me the other night while at an event they sponsored at their club!!

It’s ok actually ... ;) I gladly welcome the affliction as now I hold information not widely known to the public.

I have inside information for you all. Juicy, gleeful, hand rubbing secret information… Miles Noriega of Afflicted is working on a women’s clothing line! And from what I can tell, it’s going to be just as killer as his men’s clothing line.

That’s right you heard it here first Afflicted will soon not be for men only. Gasp!

The planets were all aligned in my favor the other night. My good friend Atiya Masala just happens to be partnered with Miles Noriega owner of Afflicted. And I just happened to be at an event sponsored by them last week when Miles dropped this cute little outfit on me soon to be released called “Little Flirt”.

Cute name, cute dress, well made, classy… right up my alley. Don’t say it... I don’t have an alley I swear.

Come to find out Atiya is assisting Miles in this new venture and I couldn’t be happier. She’s a builder and I’ve bought a number of items from her that she was soooooo kind to customize for me for my photography work. She’s great, talented, sweet and too much fun. You really have to check out her work. C'est Ca Furniture and Accent Pi, Born (102, 67, 26).

Back to Afflicted. My source tells me…*coughMilesNoriegacough* hopefully within the next month, Afflicted will open its women’s line to the public and this little number will be part of the collection at a price of only $195L!

What a guy! Smart, talented, funny and partnered with my friend. Dang could I get any luckier... I don’t think so.

Thanks Miles for letting me in on your little secret and for the really cute dress I absolutely love it.

Check out the photo for details and drop by Afflicted at http://slurl.com/secondlife/Born/76/120/32

Fashion Show Invitation

2008-08-21T16:12:00.003-04:00

Behold

2008-08-10T20:58:00.003-04:00

Everyone that knows me knows that I have a love of photography. Over the last few months I have grown a small photography hobby into a wonderful business from which I have received a great deal of satisfaction and happiness.

While I’ve been photographing various different subjects the one thing that has always frustrated me has been the lack of poses available to achieve the look I wanted.

Awhile back I had searched for and found an animator to create a couple of custom animations for me to use in modeling.

In the fashion industry, we all have the same poses, same animations and I wanted something different. What I ended up with was something that resembled an animatron robot from the likes of the Haunted Mansion at Disney World. On top of that I paid a great deal of money for that not so realistic “animation”.

I let that go and decided to just live with what’s available on the grid. And don’t get me wrong there are plenty of very talented commercial, popular animators/posers out there that I buy from and I’m happy they’re around. But in the back of my mind I always wanted something more, something special, unique.

Recently I was looking through some fashion articles and saw two advertisements that really caught my eye simply because the posing of the models in them was so stunning.

Again I got the itch for finding someone that could make this happen. You would think in SL this would not be so hard, but you would be wrong. I think I sent messages to around oh, ten or fifteen people asking them if they would be interested in creating custom poses for me for my photography work. Of all the messages I sent out, I was sure I would get several responses and have a variety of people to choose from. Again, I was wrong.

I received one, yes one response and that was from EnCore Mayne of Behold.

Not only was she very interested but very helpful, encouraging and eager to work with me. So I gave her the pictures of the poses I wanted, praying she would be better than the last person I hired in this field. She asked several very intelligent questions of which I had not thought of that would be necessary to create the poses I was looking for and we spoke for some time. During this conversation I discovered a very kind, considerate funny, witty and extremely knowledgeable person about posing. She was so helpful and easy to work with. This girl really knows her stuff. But, and there’s always a but, I was still apprehensive as I had visions of Tron burned into my mind from my last encounter with an animator.

EnCore asked me to give her a week and she would contact me when ready to see the prototypes. Within five days I heard back from her and she was ready to show me the first pose. Still I was not getting my hopes up, not this time. When she tp’ed me to the place where she creates I saw she had a male alt set up and the pose balls ready. She hopped on, put the male alt into position and omg… I mean, O M G, was I amazed! It was EXACTLY what I had hoped for! I could not have asked for a better rendition of the pose from the magazine ad. She even corrected the placement of the legs to account for that great way SL has of distorting our bodies, it was perfect! My mouth fell open and I immediately went into gushing mode. She had done what I thought was not possible. Created a couples pose from a flat one dimensional picture that will, when I show it to you blow your mind.

Now having said that, I am not going to be showing you the pose in this post. I know, I know, I’m a tease but I want to photograph it perfectly for art purposes before I let it loose on the public. I am however posting a couple of pictures she provided me with of the unique pose stand she sells. I suggest you go take a look, if you’re interested in a pose stand that does not distort SL clothing.
That said, with this post, I wanted to push EnCore Mayne into the limelight as fast as I could. This girl has a small, very small, extremely small place where she sells poses and that distinctive pose stand, and it’s called Behold.

EnCore Mayne needs to be recognized if not only for her truly obvious talents but because she’s a very deserving person and I want her talents to be brought forward and appreciated by many others in SL that love a good pose. I know this girl is going to make it big in SL.

Not only did I find my go to person for custom poses in the future but I’ve made a fast friend as well.

Believe me when I tell you if you’re looking for a custom pose EnCore Mayne is the girl to contact.

Since then EnCore has made the second pose for me that I contracted her to make in the beginning and friends, dear readers, I have to tell you it’s as magnificent as the first. Everything I wanted and more.

When I do photograph these poses I will be certain to remind you from whom I got them and deserves the credit for making the photos what I hope they will become.

You can contact EnCore Mayne in world or visit her little place at: http://slurl.com/secondlife/Choerom/240/144/2

EnCore Mayne – Behold
BEHOLD Events, Choerom (239, 139, 102)

Beautiful Byte Island

2008-07-29T08:39:00.003-04:00

I know you all will be sad to hear I’m not weighing in on the most recent blog entries on bush whacking or no bush whacking… I’ll save that for another time. And I realize this isn’t a fashion post, however my beautiful photo studio is located on Byte Island and I thought I would let everyone know there are places available for rent for your shop as well. Later I do plan on posting a fashion related post, perhaps showing some skin as well as checking out if I should go carpet or smooth surface. ;)

Contact Fricker Fraker for more information. Slurl : http://slurl.com/secondlife/Byte%20Island/137/33/25

The Garden Shops on Byte Island.
The shops range in size from 100 prim rentals to 500 prim and are directly connected with a walkway to the Romantic Tree Garden.

The rentals are designed to be beautiful and classy to showcase your products.
IM Fricker Fraker for any additional info on the shops.

If you chose to rent a shop here, IM Fricker Fraker to have a Garden Shop Group tag added to your profile so that you may begin to place your products in the shop.

The Garden Shops on Byte Island #1
Price Per Week = 650
Prims = 500

The Garden Shops on Byte Island #2 - #6
Price Per Week = 350
Prims = 100

The Garden Shops on Byte Island #7, #8
Price Per Week = 450
Prims = 200

Byte Island is a residential Island in general except for the Romantic Tree Garden and The Garden Shops. If you would like to own a parcel on Byte Island and live on this beautiful sim, all you need to do is look at the map for parcels that are for sale or look them up at http://www.thefrickerfoundation.com/

Look of the Day

2008-07-10T23:15:00.002-04:00

Today's favorite look is brought to you by Cachet, Mirai Style hair and Detour shoes.

A simple post just to show you the look I am in love with today.

Outfit: Cachet- Ford- Ice

Hair: Mirai Style - Moco- Cream

Shoes: Detour- Glamour Metallic Pumps Gray

Torley Linden LIVE Voice Interview

2008-07-02T13:40:00.004-04:00

Hey everyone! On June 16, 2008 I had the greatest pleasure to interview one of the best known and well loved Lindens on the grid. Torley Linden! Now that the voice interview with Torley has been transcribed and published in The Best of SL magazine, I can now post the link to the voice recording so you can hear it too!

Torley is such a vibrant and energetic guy to talk to! So much fun and information rolled into one person, we had a great chat! I had the opportunity to learn more about him as well as discuss SL5B, and his thoughts on a variety of SL topics.

Just click the link below and I hope you all enjoy listening to it as much as I enjoyed making it!

Special thanks to Fricker Fraker for hosting this on his site as well as doing the recording of the interview, he is virtually and really awesometastic!!

Thanks again Torley for the really awesome interview. Giving us your time when you're such a busy guy is just so totally you! We love you and can't wait to hear more from you in the future!

http://www.thefrickerfoundation.com/Download.html

She Didn't Tempt Adam with an Apple

2008-07-01T00:22:00.005-04:00

New Skin. Two of my favorite words. And when Sachi Vixen calls you up and says... “would you like to try my new skin?”… well let’s just say that’s even better and the answer is always YES!

Knowing how much of a perfectionist she is I am always happy to try something new of hers. Honestly I must say I've not worn but one or two of her skins in the past. But now I’m asking myself why that is? Take a look at this newest creation of hers called Jodie. She’s stunning! Look at the lines of the body and the detail! It’s just amazing. Her smooth quality and graceful highlights. Sigh… I love good skin. And this is good skin. Sachi is a perfectionist at whatever she commits herself to, be it clothing, hair or skin. The details are all there, the workmanship divine.

Jodie comes in four skin shades with softly detailed coordinating makeups, each one a work of art.

But that’s not all! For a limited time and in celebration of the 4th of July Sachi has put out two dollarbies! One stars and stripes bikini and of course she couldn’t do that without putting out a Union Jack! But only for a limited time then the price goes back to normal. So run over now and get those while you can. While you’re there pick up the demos for Jodie and check out for yourself the hand drawn goodness that is Adam and Eve.

Jodie $1200L

Each skin pack comes with manicure and pedicure, beauty mark or no beauty mark, carpet or no carpet.
Worn: Skin tone 2, Berry, Natural Pink, Embers

Adam and Eve- http://slurl.com/secondlife/Genesis/52/157/23

The Word of the day begins with P

2008-06-29T00:47:00.003-04:00

Not that word you sickos! Purrrr. That’s the name of the newest creation from the two awesome minds behind Reasonable Desires, Austie Pegler and Martini Joliat. Austie dropped this on me today and I couldn’t wait to slip this on!

Keeeute! Of course that’s not what my partner said but... ahem, I can’t repeat that here. The fact that this is just smokin hot is only half the good news. The rest is, if you don’t happen to like the pink I’m wearing, you can change it, it’s tintable!

Those two, they think of everything. I’m never disappointed when I get something from them. It’s always perfect, always complete and most of the time, it’s hotter than my grandma’s griddle after cooking up a batch of pancakes. Four perfect pieces, top, bottom, flexi mini trim and hot stockings complete this lingerie set.

At only $150L it’s a steal! So get yourself over to Reasonable Desires at http://slurl.com/secondlife/Reasonable%20Desires/132/204/27 and pick one up for yourself, you won’t be disappointed… and neither will your other half. *Mutters to herself as she slaps her partners hands away.

A Lethal Combination

2008-06-20T22:12:00.015-04:00

Dear Sachi,

Thank you for sending me your newest dress Samantha. Yes, I know, I know what you’re thinking “don’t thank me Cherie, just wear it”. Not sure I can do that actually. Well, let me explain. I wore your new dress today. Yep, perfect color of gold that it was. I paired it up with some new skin, by Damiani called Gabrielle, Bax Coen’s new ankle boots, Mej & Mau’s new hair and left off the jewelry because the dress is just stunningly gorgeous without it.

Anyways… so I proceeded to go shopping wearing your new dress when I noticed I was being followed around by several guys on the same shopping sim.

Quickly I looked around to see if the back of my skirt was stuck inside my panties or something but no, your dress was just fine. Gorgeous as always and flawlessly perfect as is your usual and customary way. I checked my makeup in my compact and as always the skin by Pompeja Rossini was as flawless as your dress. No, nothing seemed out of place or out of the ordinary.

So I thought well I’ll just tp off this sim and onto another and guess what? That’s right... not long after arrival another group of guys were following me around!! Finally I decided to tp to the safety of my own home where before long my partner arrived.

He’s staring at me… and I ask. What is going on today?? First the stalkers and now you! Do I have something stuck in my teeth? A sign on my back?

No he says... it’s just your look today. It’s perfect. The skin, the hair, the dress, they’re perfect! Sigh… *EDITED FOR CONTENT* *SHORT COMMERCIAL BREAK*

Anyway Sachi, thanks again for the dress… however I’m not sure I’ll be wearing it outside the house much anymore even though it is perfect and I love it, I just can’t handle the stalkers it seems to attract.

Must be that slit up the front of the skirt that drives the guys crazy, shows a lot of Damiani’s new skin.

As always keep up the good work and thanks for thinking of me.

Best Regards,
Cherie Parker

Samantha comes in six different colors and sells for $500 with two skirt combinations
Damiani skin- Gabrielle sells for $1500 for two makeups and $7500 for the fatpack

Adam and Eve - http://slurl.com/secondlife/Genesis/52/157/23
Damiani- Plush Micron (194, 101, 24)

EdDesigns- Edde Edman Lives

2008-06-10T09:36:00.003-04:00

For all of you out there wondering what happened to Edde Edman, owner and creator of EdDesigns well I’m here to tell you he is alive and kicking! He’s just moved his business to a new sim which has fantastic new build.

Everyone that knows Edde knows he is the creative force behind some amazingly realistic skins, eyes, eyelashes, shoes, and jewelry. So if you’ve been wondering how to find him again follow the link below to see his astonishing new build and his stunning artistry in skin and accessories.

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Tyrone/245/159/21

My Favorite Color

2008-06-09T21:54:00.014-04:00

Blouse by Beauty Avatar-Philadelphia Purple/Skin by Beauty Avatar- Nefertiti Natural 14
Hair by AVZ- Widowhair Black

No Drama

2008-06-08T11:58:00.001-04:00

There’s nothing like the sound of a train whistle at night to calm and soothe me if life has been exceptionally unkind or stressful. To hear that forlorn call of the steel rail leading off to a place unknown, mystery and eventually to disappear into the darkness makes my soul relax and my mind drift off riding tramp in a car pulled behind that big engine.

I know you’re wondering what this has to do with drama right? Well… this is how I deal with drama... rl- sl... doesn’t matter. In fact for me both rl and sl cross paths so much now its hard to say, what is drama here and not drama that I take with me out of sl into rl?

I hear people say “no drama” as if they’re holding up the sign of a cross to a vampire here in sl. It’s become a slogan, a slang an overused vernacular. I can practically see them shaking their heads, backing away and waving their hands in a vigorous denial of what they’re faced with.

For anyone faced with another who expresses passion, opinions or stand up to what they feel is right or wrong, somehow they are then labeled with a red circle, a slash through it with big bold letter of NO DRAMA comfortably cradled inside.

It’s kind of sad to me. I don’t really understand why this life would be that much different than real life. I mean here we work, we play, we love, we interact, in real life we do the same.

Is there drama in real life? Of course there is. So you say, I have enough in real life… I don’t want it here. Fine. Then might I suggest becoming an android and developing the sense of no emotion?

I realize everyone is different here. Again, I see no difference from real life. We’re different there as well.

But if you do work here, play here, love here or even interact here, how does one expect not to encounter drama at some point? And why is drama the leper of sl?

People have come to use the term “drama” as an excuse for a lack of accountability; they can hide behind it, and use it as a shield in order to not face something of opposition.

Sometimes drama is required for justice, what is right, clearing the air and developing a common understanding from people.

Drama has its good side and its bad side. Do I want a stalker in rl? No. Do I want one here in sl? Again, no. But do I want to interact with people, share with friends, live and work in sl? Yes. So at some point conflict or drama will raise it’s not so ugly head.

Drama is good. And so is conflict when used properly to resolve a situation.

Drama is a part of life. We love, we lose, we play, we get hurt, we work, we get frustrated, we interact, and we differ.

In the end we are all faced with drama in this life and our rl. Not only does it continue to help you define your character but also teaches you how to deal with complicated issues… accept diversity, different cultures and different perspectives. To say no to drama is actually saying I’m not willing to learn, grow, or change my opinion ever.

We’re adults, or we’re supposed to be. We’re supposed to have had life experience to teach us how to deal with difficult situations. If you haven’t, then its time you do and drama is a fine teacher.

As always, this is just my opinion, which doesn’t necessarily reflect the opinion of the management, staff, public, pet, oddball or any other entity I failed to mention. There, that’s my disclaimer.

Have a nice day, and embrace the drama.

Cylindrian takes a Byte

2008-06-02T18:40:00.001-04:00

Byte Island, 36, 41, 22

The Good, The Bad, The Ugly

2008-05-31T09:21:00.004-04:00

Recent photography by Cherie Parker

2008-05-28T16:36:00.003-04:00

Up until today I had one pair of leather pants that I loved and would often live in. But today is my lucky day. Sachi Vixen of Adam n Eve dropped a pair of her new black leather pants on me and omg let me just say DAYUM these are fine!

There’s just something about slipping into a pair of finely crafted black leather pants that makes me wanna go to a pool hall, pick up a cue stick, bend over a table and see just how many male avatars hit gutter balls looking at my ass.

If you’re looking for that reaction, these are definitely the pants to slip into. As always Sachi strives for perfection in that hard working over active imagination of hers and she didn’t let us down this time.

The seams are perfect, the shading and highlighting so realistic, less shiny but more like a nice well worn leather your butt has grown attached to over many moons (pun intended) of wearing.

I love them. They’re just perfect. I hate to keep saying that about Sachi’s things but I swear that girl leaves me with nothing to complain about.

The pants come in six colors, blue, black, white, pink, silver and aubergine. Aubergine? Ok Sachi that’s fine… this time. ;)

Cost is $150L per pair and the brat pack will only set you back $600L.

I expect I’ll be seeing a bunch of you girls at the pool hall now, sigh.

You can find Adam n Eve at: http://slurl.com/secondlife/Genesis/53/157/27

Shirt: LBD

Hair: Jolie Femme

Skin: MMS

Safari Anyone?

2008-05-25T20:45:00.003-04:00

Who’s game? Well if you are, Sachi Vixen of Adam n Eve has tossed out an adorable, new, yet to be released dress from her catwalk collection called Zebra.

It just makes you want to whip out that Nikon, put on your Pith helmet, spray liberally with bug repellant and hop up on the jeep! Ok maybe not... but it is so cute!!!

And! And!!! For a limited time only, that being the next 30 hours its hidden somewhere in the store of Adam n Eve for you to find and buy for only $1L!!!

You heard me right, only $1L if you can find it!! So get thee over to the safari hunt and find that square pink box that holds Zebra before Sachi takes it down and sells it for the regular price of $300L. Low price anyway but when you can get it for $1L do it!

I don’t want to see anyone out there with an elephant gun though… so put those down and back away slowly.

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Genesis/53/157/27

Shameless self promotion- Photos by Cherie

2008-05-24T17:43:00.005-04:00

Simple Elegance

2008-05-23T15:34:00.003-04:00

Skin by Minnu: MMS Sunkissed Diva 6 $1400L http://slurl.com/secondlife/Glam%20World/100/176/23

Dress by Leezu Baxter: Kali Dress Green $690L http://slurl.com/secondlife/To%20The%20Nines/22/111/24

No I'm Not Dead

2008-05-16T12:18:00.007-04:00

I know I haven’t posted anything recently from the fashion industry but dangit, I’ve been busy… so today I’m going to list all the things I’ve been behind on.

It seems that work, rl or sl has been putting out its virtual foot and tripping me up lately and I really need to get back to posting about fashion and fashion finds.

I don’t have the time to go into a full blown review on each item so I’m just going to list them here, show you the pictures, give you the prices and let you go check them out for yourselves.

From my point of view I really like these new items and while I’m sure there might be some minor issues someone could find, I just wasn’t in the mood to look.

I mean come on, I haven’t been shopping since gambling was kicked out of SL… ok that might be a bit of an exaggeration but that’s how it feels. So with that in mind, I bring you three things to view and salivate over today.

First this cute little outfit called Candy from Kotobuki Jewel of Bijou. A sexy little high waisted, cropped pant number with flexy leggings that just feels darling! I love where this pant length ends on the leg and how very Lois Lane it makes me feel. Comes in five colors, purple, yellow, red , green & white and sells for only $270!! Quite the bargain. http://slurl.com/secondlife/Takaraduka/201/156/47

Next is the new skin by Detour. Two versions Kelly and Lisa. Same skin color but different make up. Had to have them both as they both had makeup’s I liked and well being the skin whore I am, I just had to have them. Cute no? Each set comes with four different makeup's and the set costs $3000L. No individual skins for sale that's my only real gripe.

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Detour/129/128/22

Next is the long over due showing of Adam & Eve’s Fae outfit Winirose. Forgive me Sachi for taking so long to get this out but I swear I’m being timed by the nano second lately and it’s just been crazy trying to get anything posted on my blog. While I’m not really into Fae this outfit is as cute as they come. As usual great detail as can be expected from Sachi Vixen and great value. Three skirt versions and look at these cute wings! Comes in six colors, Lilac, Green, Blue, Peach, Pink and Natural. Sells for $450L. http://slurl.com/secondlife/Genesis/49/162/23

Oomp3 Hits the Market

2008-05-11T00:43:00.001-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
10 May 2008

PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEIDIATE RELEASE 5/10/08
Oomp3 Media Player

OomPoppaMowMow Snookums, owner and creator of Wildflower Systems, photoLIFE and Casa Italiana, today releases his newest creation in his line of technological advancements for Second Life, unlike any other device on the SL market today, the Oom3p Media Player.

OomPoppaMowMow has brought to SL what Apple brought to RL. The Oom3p Media Player is exactly what you think it is. Your very own personal, portable music player that you load with only the songs you want to hear. Play your favorites where and when you want! Put together playlists for special events. Buyers are already saying "It's unlike anything I've ever seen!"
It's available now and can be seen and heard at the Oomp3 Media Player center at COFE (207, 65, 27). Go directly to the store selling the one and only Oomp3 Media Player and get your demo today.
http://slurl.com/secondlife/COFE/196/127/28

For more information, or to get a personal product review, please contact OomPoppaMowMow Snookums or Cherie Parker.

Take a Byte

2008-05-09T20:10:00.001-04:00

I realize this is not fashion related but, you have to see this island to believe it. It's simply fantastic.

Byte Island - A beautiful sim with a lovely romantic tree garden now has available land for purchase.

This island is maintained by the Fricker Foundation and is a very beautiful sim for residential use only.The Fricker Foundation is different than most of the SecondLife land developers. We are dedicated to providing SecondLife residents with lag free, commercial free, private and secluded estates with the beauty of natural surroundings and nature preserves.
It’s our desire that residents whom chose to call one of our estates home, want to live and build their dream home in a secluded island getaway and are willing to go that extra step for peace and tranquility.

This is not Linden mainland or anything like what you may have experienced with the mainland. Our land ownership is not controlled by Linden Labs and no additional tier fees need to be paid to them. The foundation works on Tier Fees which are paid directly to The Fricker Foundation. This allows us to provide our land to basic members as well as the premium members. Please read our covenant for details on the land tire fees and any regulations for land ownership.
The Foundation is not out to be the largest land development company in SL, just the most livable and lovable for your avatar.

To learn more about the open parcels go to http://www.thefrickerfoundation.com/

Here are a couple examples of current land available for purchase.
Corner Lot on Ocean -4096 sq. M $L- 8,000 to start your ownership (Land Cost) and $L 8,000 per Month for the Land Tier Fee . This equals 16k $L to start and then 8k $L every month after. Please read covenant. http://slurl.com/secondlife/Byte%20Island/33/221/24

Oceanside Lot-4096 sq. M $L- 8,000 to start your ownership (Land Cost) and $L 8,000 per Month for the Land Tier Fee . This equals 16k $L to start and then 8k $L every month after. Please read covenant. http://slurl.com/secondlife/Byte%20Island/131/240/24

Grand Re-Opening of Preciosity of Style

2008-04-30T17:37:00.004-04:00

Press Release
For Immediate Release 29 April 2008
Brenda Clellon

Inauguration of Preciosity of Style is 2 May at 10pm Italy time. There will be a haute couture fashion show featuring the designs of Brenda Clellon.

Lory is designer Brenda Clellon's first creation, and most important original design at that, both for its impact on the fashion world, and the rave reviews received from those who purchased Lory.

Most recently, Lory was chosen by Cherie Parker, Miss Canada for the Miss Universe 2007 competition as her evening gown of choice. After having reviewed many other dress designs and designers Miss Parker chose a Brenda Clellon original to walk the runway in the magnificent Miss Universe pageant.

The final night of the pageant, Miss Parker wore Lory and walked through the great theater of dreams, a place where ladies wear beautiful dresses in an attempt to look the most magnificent of the evening.

Like very old Hollywood, Lory is a silver and gold bodice designed dress with a decidedly art deco feel flowing down the body, the hips and over the legs. The low flexy skirt hugs the hips and flows around the wearer in a circle of liquid silver and gold.
Lory has two separate skirts to surround you in a melody of silver and gold taffeta.

Don’t miss the grand opening of the new Preciosity of Style on 2 May, 2008, 10pm Italy time and the grand fashion show presented by Brenda Clellon.

http://slurl.com/secondlife/BEST%20OF%20ITALIAN/75/129/24

Best of Italian 120,75,23

12 New Makeups @ Damiani!

2008-04-21T14:05:00.005-04:00

I’ve got good news! Remember a couple of weeks ago I showed you the new release Isabelle, from Pompeja Rossini and KaoZ Koba of Damiani’s Skin ? Well she’s baaaaaaack! And with 12 new makeups!!

That’s right readers you heard it hear first, twelve more makeup options for the Isabelle line, in addition to the twelve released earlier this month! That’s… *counts on fingers- 24!! And they are just gorgeous!

Check out the pictures above for the latest makeup releases, they are just fab! I do love having such a wide variety of choices, not limiting me to just four lipstick colors and one eye color.

Isabelle individual skins are $1500L, $3500L for a six pack and $15,000L for the entire enchilada 12 pack.

You can find Damiani at: Plush Micron (194, 101, 24)

What I Aspire To Be

2008-04-19T14:04:00.002-04:00

I may be burning my bridges here, but I’ve never been that fond of them anyway. They hide trolls you know.

Anyone who knows me is aware I do a number of things here in SL. I model, I write for a well known magazine. I have this blog. I also manage a great business in the photography field. I own my own shapes business and my own photography business as well. But none of these things define who I am.

I am defined by my integrity, my morals, my character and self respect. To those, no one owns me or can persuade me to change. That being said, I write this article stating emphatically, it’s written with my opinion being the sole driver.

As many of you know, and some that don’t, ASpiRE was recently sold by Bianca Darling to new owners Kristianne Matfield and Benderoverand Hammerer of Duality Inc.

The first dreadful thing that happened to ASpiRE was the loss of Ally Geer. The second was the loss of what ASpiRE once was.

I was hired by ASpiRE about a month ago as a model. I couldn’t have been more excited if someone had handed me a million Lindens. Since rezzing into SL and becoming aware of the modeling scene, joining ASpiRE was something I dreamed of as I know it is or has been for many a new avatar.

I never did one show for them. Before I could even step one foot onto the runway, Ally Geer was gone, and Bianca Darling had sold the business.

It wasn’t long before I received a notice indicating the new owners had decided to make some sweeping policy changes. The most significant being, exclusivity of employees. Any and all models or writers that work for them must be exclusive to ASpiRE, or if working for another agency, must “wear” the tag of ASpiRE and have it made public that they are the “property” of said agency.

Now I realize in real life, this happens, I’m not stupid. But since I’ve been modeling in SL and it’s been awhile now, I have yet to work for an agency that has required not only exclusivity but in addition, the stipulation of marching over to any and every other agency you work for and expect them to promote you under their name (ASpiRE) for all the work you do.

I’m sorry, but that just seems to me like a slap in the face to every other hard working modeling agency in Second Life and they are legion.

To require another agency to publicize, market and promote a model for another agency is simply ludicrous. Why would one agency do that for another? Why in the world as a model, would I want that kind of noose around my neck? Are they guaranteeing a certain income? No. Are they even guaranteeing you work? No. Then what would be the incentive for applying such a leash? Simply having the privilege of the tag ASpiRE branded on the collar around my neck is just not enough for this girl.

As if that isn’t enough, let’s look at what one of the new owners of ASpiRE is saying about one of the hardest working designers in Second Life. Check the comments: http://shoppingcartdisco.com/2008/04/06/i-hate-it-when-this-happens

Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, including myself. But it would seem to me, if someone is in the business of representing designers in Second Life, one would be a bit more cautious of what is publicly said about them.

All that considered, I know a lot of you are thinking- “dayum Cherie, you’ve done it now, any chance at a future contract with ASpiRE you’ve just chewed up and swallowed”. Well, that may be so. But as I said, modeling does not define me. I am many things. Honest, hard working, loyal and yes, blunt. So if you’re looking for a “yes” woman, look somewhere else. I know how to spell “NO” and when to say it.

My self respect is a lot more valuable to me than any membership in an exclusive club.
/end rant

New Skin in Town

2008-04-10T16:47:00.004-04:00

Guess what?? There is a new skin in town! That’s right, making her debut this week is Damiani’s latest skin Isabelle by the creative force of Pompeja Rossini and KaoZ Koba.

I am such a skin whore.

Damiani’s latest stunning creation comes with twelve different make up styles and is just scrumptious. I love the makeup! This time around they added much more depth to the eyes, something I adore about Damiani’s skin and added the choice of carpet or no carpet. The variety of lip colors vary to match the eye colors and are truly magnificent with quite the stylish flair.

The body is subtle and the definitions are exceptional including the stomach, legs, inside of the elbows, hands, back and feet. It’s clear they put a lot of work into this new skin and Isabelle shows it. The seams are done so well you really have to know where to look to find them. These guys really know how to work a texture.

If I had to find a flaw and it’s REALLY hard to do, the eyebrows could be a bit heavier and the nipples with more color and definition. As luck would have it, I contacted Pompeja and asked her on her next skin line to make the eyebrows bigger. And guess what?? She’s doing it right now! I probably shouldn’t be letting the cat out of the bag yet but yes, she’s already working on her next skin line! No release date yet, but when I know, you'll know! With the results of Isabelle being so yummy I am understandably excited and anxious for the next set of skins! And yes, I will say it again.

I am such a skin whore.

The team of Rossini and Koba are quickly becoming known for their brilliant skin work in SL. They just keep impressing me with their hard work, diligence and artistic ability. Isabelle skin is sure to be one you’ll want, even if your buldging inventory does cry a little every time you shop. ;) (said the skin whore who just topped over 45K)

Isabelle individual skins are $1500L, $7500L for a six pack and $15,000L for the entire enchilada 12 pack.

You can find Damiani at: Plush Micron (194, 101, 24)

2008-04-07T15:17:00.005-04:00

You all know Adam and Eve right? Sachi Vixen and Damen Gorilla of Adam & Eve-of course you do. They are hardly inconspicuous. :) Their designs are seen everywhere and worn by everyone.

We all admire and love them for their OCD and how they put it to work in their designs.

Last night Sachi dropped on me one of her newest creations called Sakura. With four skirt options not including the system skirt and two jacket versions included, several different looks were quickly achieved from this one outfit.

Hard as I tried I could not find one single flaw. I swear Sachi is a perfectionist. I mean just once do you think she could send me an outfit I could find some fault with? But nooooooooooooo.

Dangit.

This dress and the textures used to achieve this design are just stunning. It reminds me of the finest gold satin that just glides over your body shimmering with every turn. It’s simply magnificent. The top can be worn as a sleeveless corset type or pair it with the lace shrug for a completely different look.

While Sachi doesn’t release as many items per week as say some designers, it’s clear she is the gold standard when it comes to perfection. She absolutely will not release something unless it’s perfect. So if you’re shopping for an item and don’t want to spend the time hunting because you’re worried about flaws, look no further. Just go to Adam & Eve and you’re bound to come away with a design that is not only perfection in detail but style as well.

Sakura comes in silver, gold, blue, pink, purple, black, green and red. This amazing combination of dresses in one outfit sells for $1000 and the bratpack for all colors is only $5000.

You can find Adam and Eve at : http://slurl.com/secondlife/Genesis/52/157/23

Two More

2008-04-04T22:48:00.003-04:00

Shameless Self Promotion

2008-04-04T21:42:00.006-04:00

Besides writing this blog, writing articles for The Best of SL magazine, having my own shapes business and being the director of photoLIFE, I also do photography in Second Life™. I'm posting just a few shots I've done recently that I had alot of fun with. I hope you enjoy them.

2008-04-01T14:19:00.002-04:00

Italian Fashion became a hit in the early 1950’s when a fashion show was staged by a Count for an international show in Florence. Over the years women’s fashion choices have slowly but surely moved towards the label of “Made in Italy” whether it be Haute Couture or Prêt-à-porter.

The reason? Passion.

That’s right. When the Italians design something it’s not just a piece of clothing, or accessory, it’s a statement they wear. It’s fundamentally different than that of most Americans or other countries for that matter. For Italians, fashion is an instrument of social redemption whereby class is determined according to what one wears; elsewhere all of this is inconceivable beyond the confines of Italy, fashion is only a tool for confirming social status.

For Italians, fashion is the language of desire, the game of flirting glances and emulation that speaks of the evolution of costume, modesty and imagination over the centuries. Erotic motivations therefore dominate the impulse that determines ones choice in clothing or accessories.

It’s true. And I think more and more its true elsewhere in the world. Think about that last item of clothing or article you bought that would accessorize, and think of what you were saying to yourself as you made the decision to buy. “Oh, these will look hot.” “Do these make my ass look good?” Passion driven. To look your best, most desirable.

Well recently I learned of a new Italian designer and had the brilliant luck of having some of his designs dropped on me to review. His name, Moketti Broome of Mokoptica - Glasses & Sunglasses.

The photos above show a few of the designs Moketti was kind enough to leave with me. And believe me, when I put them on, I felt the passion slide over me. These sunglasses are clearly designed with a zest for fashion accessory perfection. The texture work is magnificent. The design, shape and overall look of the glasses is one that will surely make you feel that fashion is indeed a language of desire. I loved the way these looked on me, each one of them, and some of them are men’s designs. Although a lot could be considered unisex.

Moketti Broome has been in Second Life ™ since May of 07. Since then he has been working towards building a business based upon his love of design and learning the skills in which to bring them in world for us to enjoy. Initially MoKetti had sculpty issues with some of his glasses but has made the proper design changes that have corrected this problem, which btw was caused by Linden Labs ™© changes in draw distance. Don’t ask me to explain further, I’m not a builder by any leap of the imagination and cannot begin to explain the problems all I know is it’s fixed now and Moketti Broomes glasses are divine.

Most of his glasses are scripted with lens color change effect, and transparency as well as bling/no bling. Of the fifteen styles Moketti Broome has currently for sale all of his glasses with the exception of one design are $300L, the other design is $350.

If you’re a fan of Italian style design, I recommend you stop by Mokoptica - Glasses & Sunglasses and check out his shop. He’s new and open to suggestions, comments ideas and feedback so don’t be afraid to send him an IM telling him what you think.

As for me, I think I’m going to go find some good Italian shoes, ones that say… come walk with me baby, slide into something slinky, put on my Moketti Agata’s and see what fun comes my way.

You can find Mokoptica - Glasses & Sunglasses http://slurl.com/secondlife/Lagoon/166/31/21

I <3 LA

2008-03-29T11:41:00.002-04:00

Well guys, you didn’t have to wait long for Naiman Broome to fulfill your latest style wish. As promised here is the newly release LA Jacket for men!

The LA Jacket for men comes in several yummy colors but I chose the dark brown and sexah black to show you guys.

Ahem, excuse me while I become a guy to model these for you. I promise not to scratch, belch, fart or yell at the TV while wearing this, as its way to tasteful for that.

As with the previous NY Jacket for the ladies, this jacket comes with four jacket style choices and twelve sculptie pieces for you to pick and choose from to obtain the look you want to define. Closed jacket, open jacket, closed neck, open neck. And each piece is modifiable so you can fit those huge guns you guys like to sport.

I paired the jacket with a nice sweater from Armidi, some regular jeans and some low boots and I liked the look. All together this look is so hot I wanted to pick myself up.

As customary for Naima, the texture work on the LA Jacket is just to die for. Such realism overall you feel as if you could just run your fingers over the soft, supple leather of this jacket and feel the hide warm to your touch.

It’s a great jacket, and so easy to modify even I can do it and I have trouble forming a prim.

Just released last night guys so if you want to be the first to get it, head on over to Naima at: NAIMA- http://slurl.com/secondlife/Lagoon/91/24/21 and pick one up. Selling at only $480 for the quality and number of pieces it’s a real bargain.

Well alas I must exit man land and head back to my feminine side before I start to want to take something apart, crawl under the hood of a car, stare at girls chests instead of their eyes and eat anything that doesn’t eat me first.

So until next time, enjoy the new Naima LA Jacket, and remember, in LA you could be the next discovered star.

NAIMA- http://slurl.com/secondlife/Lagoon/91/24/21

LA Jacket- $480

The Chronicals of NAIMA

2008-03-26T09:04:00.010-04:00

You know, for a long time, I’ve been searching for a specific type of jacket here in SL and just haven’t had any luck.

But last night my luck changed. A friend of mine, Naiman Broome owner of Naima Fashions drops this package on me out of the blue simply named, “NaimaNYJAcket” and says- “hey…try this on and let me know what you think”. Very film noir I thought. ”Pssst… the blue turtle fly’s at noon.”

Anyway, I proceeded to open the package and what did I find? Eleven sculpted pieces and five jacket styles for the elusive jacket I have been hunting in SL!

That short, sexy, closed at the bottom, opened at the top bomber jacket with a high neck collar, oh yeah baby, I finally found you-ahhhh my quest is over.

Naiman has done it again. I’ve always loved Naiman’s work ever since I first discovered it. But over time he has gotten even better. Every time I pick up something new at his shop I am delighted to see just how much he has advanced and improved his technique and style.

Honestly this time I think he has outdone himself. This jacket is simply a work of art. The detail is stunning and the 3D shadowing its just amazing. Put this jacket on and you feel as if you’re really wearing a garment, a jacket not a texture.

I talked to Naiman about it and found out the NY jacket is the result of three months of hard work. Well-it shows. This jacket is not only stylish and very sexy but as versatile as any piece of clothing item as I’ve seen in SL. It can be worn with skirts, jeans, dressy pants, capris, shorts you name it.

The NY jacket comes with options of closed at the bottom link or fully open to pair with shirts and undershirts of your choice. The collar has several choices open or closed, hood up or down. It also comes with a choice of shadow or no shadow your preference, but I love the 3D shadow work. It just adds to the overall realism of this article of clothing. He’s even made a version for larger breasted women and smaller breasted, he’s thought of everything when it comes to this jacket.

It comes in ten truly brilliant color choices and sells for only $380L. All sculpted pieces can be modified to meet your particular body needs.

Take a look at the pictures and tell me this isn’t one of the hottest jackets you’ve seen in a long time. Right now I would love to stay and gush on about it but I have an plane waiting for take off on the runway and I don’t want to be late. Bomber jacket on, check, I’m ready for takeoff!

PS Guys, don't feel left out- Naiman is currently working on a male version just for you. :)

Get your copy now at NAIMA- http://slurl.com/secondlife/Lagoon/91/24/21

Reasonable Desires- Desiring Women

2008-03-21T14:42:00.003-04:00

I love Austie Pegler and Martini Joliat of Reasonable Desires. Every time they drop something on me, I get a smile on my face. I know that whatever it is, I’m going to love it. It’s either going to provide me with a giggle, a belly roll or I’m just simply going to be in awe of their craftsmanship.

About two weeks ago Austie dropped another “care” package on me. Bless her heart. She had no idea how busy I was at the time, or how stressed. She just giggled and said “don’t worry about blogging this just have fun!” And that’s exactly what I did-have fun!

Well how can I resist blogging her items? I can’t! It’s just not possible. Those two KEEL me!

This time around they sent me some of their latest costumes which included Lovely Legal, Not So Snow White, Sailor Sweetie, Little Red Riding Hood and Violet Burlesque.

Come on, with those titles how can you NOT want to jump right in, tear off your clothes and try them on?? Once again I was not disappointed with the quality or quantity that was in each item. I swear all you have to do is supply hair and shoes and you’re set to go. Look at the photos, that’s all I added to each of them and I was ready for my next costume party, Halloween event or a little personal favorite role playing. :)

Ahem, anyway, I don’t have to tell you how I feel about Reasonable Desires, you can read it from previous posts. I love them! They have the cutest, most imaginative, detailed and highly comprehensive costumes on the grid. These outfits are no different. Great work, good details, fine texturing and just plain old fun times. So get thee over to Reasonable Desires and if you run into Austie or Martini, tell them I’m off to grandmas’ house and I don’t know when I’ll be back.

Not So Snow White: $225L
Little Red Riding Hood $199L
Violet Burlesque: $225
Sailor Sweetie: $150L
Lovely Legal: $150

You can find Reasonable Desires at : http://slurl.com/secondlife/Reasonable%20Desires/132/204/27

Prima Di Elaganza Fashion Show Review

2008-03-10T13:22:00.006-04:00

March 9th, 2008 the first fashion show held at Bellalgio was presented by Premiere Modeling amongst a crowd of the fashion hungry who’s who went well despite SL having its way with us in many ways, on different levels of frustration. Everyone involved in the Prima Di Eleganza show worked hard to pull off a dazzling fashion extravaganza featuring the dynamic works of VictoriaV, Milady’s Fancy, Styles of Edo, Indyra Originals and shoes by Zhao.

VictoriaV McMillan is ready to show the SL fashion world she's still got style. VictoriaV makes stylish outfits that range from business boardroom to elegant evening gowns. The stunning heels showcased were of course provided by the uber creative mind of Melanie Zhao of Zhao shoes. VictoriaV has class and refined style towards the taste of simple yet elegant. Not overly textured or wild couture by any means her work has a following that seems to be growing larger day by day. Simplicity in design will always have a place in the fashion world and VictoriaV seems to have that down pat.

Fomenting fashion revolution clearly isn't the aim of Rachel Darling of Milady’s Fancy. Rather, the designer continues her quiet evolution, adding tailoring and texture to the super sequined mini dress designed to bring the eye towards the hip where its transparent texture is best utilized. Anything to write home about? Perhaps not. But there is something to be said for ably translating trends into simple, well-priced looks that make an attractive, anonymous addition to a wardrobe. And that something might be, "Put it on my credit card."
As luck would have it SL decided to chew me up and spit me out about the time the show rolled around to Styles of Edo therefore I lack pictures and information on that section. The same fate befalls the latest from Indyra Originals. I did manage to snap a couple of pics of three of the designs by Indyra before once again I was scattered to the four winds by the gods of SL, never to return.

There were several VIP’s I saw in attendance and had a chance to snap pics of including the CEO of VictoriaV, Vasgez McMillan as well as VictoriaV McMillan herself. Standing nearby you also see Alix Abruzzo owner of the Bellagio.

I will say that despite all of the issues in SL during the show, everyone from the models to the management of Bellagio worked non stop to ensure the best show possible. Well organized and held on a truly spectacular runway, all the models involved worked thru horrific lag, non attachment curses and asset server issues to still make the show appear seamless and without a hitch. Coming from the runway side myself I know what those girls went through and kudos to them for their hard work.

The Bellagio estate on the Isle of Dreams, is simply the grandest build I have seen in SL. It really IS the Bellagio, and if you’ve ever been to Vegas you know what I mean. I for one was stunned at the sheer magnitude of the complete Bellagio landscape. The buildings are magnificent as are the grounds. The shops are well laid out and easily accessible. Clearly this is a place to come if you choose to be pampered in style for a day, two or more. Nothing less than perfection would be expected from Bellagio and to my great delight I was not disappointed.

Special thanks to Pat Hartono, Bellagio Fashion Coordinator and Alix Abruzzo, BellagioOwner for inviting me to this show and I look forward to being in attendance for many more to come.

photoLIFE Model Search

2008-03-04T17:58:00.002-05:00

Think you've got what it takes to be photoLife Model search and win $L 5,000, a gorgeous house worth 15k, have your face be in the photoLIFE ads, and recieve a photoLIFE studio (OM-10) ?

Yes ?

So read below :

The hunt is on for the FACE of photoLife. After doing research with several photographers and photo studio owners, OomPoppaMowMow Snookums armed himself with statistics on photo studio requirements started the creation of photoLIFE.His goal was to build a photo studio unlike any other in Second Life. He would handle all the scripting and building himself leaving nothing to chance. This would allow him to make certain all scripting was done to his exacting details.photoLIFE is looking for a model for the FACE of photoLIFE.The chosen model will:

1. Recieve 5k$L
2. Receive a gorgeous house worth 15k$L
3. Be eligible for modeling school with InStyle Fashion Agency
4. Have her face be in the photoLIFE ads
5. Recieve a photoLIFE studio (OM-10).

There will be a Top 5 chosen and they will each receive a 1K cash prize and a photoLIFE studio (OM-10).To be eligible you must be female. And be willing to work with photoLIFE to set up events that you will be able to attend as a photo model and pose for pictures.Most events will happen sometime between 12pm SLT and 10pm SLT, please dont apply if you cannot make exceptions to be available during requested hours for events.

Eligibility:
1. Must be female
2. Must be available for March 30, 2008 @ 2pm for the PhotoLIFE launch event and voting
3. Be open for other events as they come up (we will work with you on planning)
4. Create the folder as requested

If you think this may be you please follow the directions below.**Any failure to follow the instructions as laid out will be cause for removal from the contest.**

1. Create a folder and name it "photoLIFE Model Search - Avatar name"
2. Put 1 face shot, no outworld effects please, named "photoLIFE model face- avatar name" into the folder
3. Put one body shot, no outworld effects please, no nudity, named "photoLIFE model body- avatar name" into the folder. (AT LEAST ONE PHOTO MUST BE TAKEN using the photoLIFE studio the OM-10, either your face shot or body shot, they are set up at photoLIFE).
4. Create a notecard named "photoLIFE Model note - avatar name", include:a. your nameb. your SL birthdayc. time you are generally available in SL (pls use SL time)
5. Drop the entire folder onto Teena Basevi's Profile no later then Sunday March 9, 2008 11:59pm SLT
6. Accept the Group Invite to photoLIFE to await further news.

Top 5 choices will be annnounced in the photoLIFE group on March 17, 2008 at 10am SLT (pending SL allowing people in and all that jazz).The winner will be chosen by vote by the event attendees on March 30th.

Any questions please IM or send a notecard to Teena Basevi.deadline is march 9th to have photo folders to Teena Basevi.

REMINDER: At least one photo must be taken on the OM-10!!Thank you and Good Luck!

Interview with a Mad Scientist

2008-03-03T08:38:00.002-05:00

Some of you may have read the article I wrote, recently published in The Best of SL magazine; then again some of you may not. Either way what you didn’t see was the interview I had with the creator of the photo studio I was writing about. Damn editors-they always end up cutting the best stuff. ;) Anyway towards that end, I am presenting here the interview I had with OomPoppaMowMow Snookums, owner, creator and mad scientist builder of the photoLIFE photo studio. I hope the article makes more sense now.

Cherie: Why did you create the Photo Life?

OomPoppaMowMow Snookums: photoLIFE was created to introduce a different level of quality to Second Life than the current studios can provide.

Cherie: What inspired you to take this on?

OomPoppaMowMow Snookums: As a home builder in Second Life, I make great efforts to provide my customers with good support. A customer of mine called me and asked me to help them with another object they purchased. Obviously I was under no obligation to assist them, seeing it wasn't my creation, but I agreed to take a look at it. When I arrived I found a product known as the N30 modeling studio. Once I saw the studio, I remembered seeing it several months before. A friend of mine was in modeling and was visiting an agency. I was just walking around the room while I waited and noticed bad seams and poor texturing on what I understand now to be the N30. I actually wrote the creator about major flaws I saw, offering to help correct the problems. Needless to say, my offer was rejected. My customer had also contacted the owner and was having trouble with some particle scripts. They received what I believe was poor customer service.

I've never felt like reinventing the wheel was a circumstance I enjoyed being in, but when the wheel doesn’t roll right, I’m all for making one that does! It was at this point that I realized SL needed a quality photo studio that offered stability and reliability, so I decided to build one myself.

Cherie: What was your design philosophy?

OomPoppaMowMow Snookums: Quality in scripting and ease of use, without over-scripting and adding unnecessary complications. Second Life gives builders a wide range of abilities to create a lot of features. Its here that I believe the biggest difference is seen. I've looked for features that give the photographer a larger range of tools, and I've never introduced anything into the OM-10 without first asking myself a few questions. Does the feature enhance the photographer's ability to be creative? Can this feature be easily used? And how can the feature function so the scripting and build perform seamlessly? There are many other features that could be added to photoLIFE, but I choose to keep only those features that enhance the build and give the photographer quality tools, without introducing lag or scripting malfunctions.

This approach is quite different than many other concept designers. A concept designer might have a great idea, but to see the idea come to life, the designer might end up having to hire many different scripters. This can make the scripting schematics klutzy, which causes scripting failures and overloads the script with listen functions, which add a considerable amount of lag. As a builder-scripter, I've created every phase of the studio, from conceptual design to prim building and even scripting. No other scripter has had any part of the schematics of the OM-10. This is why I believe the OM-10 outperforms any photostudio on the market when put to a side by side comparison.

Cherie: Why did you make it the way you did?

OomPoppaMowMow Snookums: Admittedly I am not a photographer in SL. I've been able to photograph friends on occasion, and I'm pleased to say the results were normally better than what they were able to get from paid photographers, but my passion has always been building and scripting. When it came to designing the features, I wanted to be sure that I was able to deliver the photographers with features that they found useful in a studio. I decided to begin interviewing photographers. Each one seemed to have his or her own approach to SL photography, but almost all seemed passionate about the field, and only photographers with an established reputation for quality work were interviewed. Not all design suggestions were used, but all were taken seriously, and, without question, all agreed that Second Life could use a studio with a different level of quality and were pleased to hear about the project.

Cherie: How long has it taken you to complete it?

OomPoppaMowMow Snookums: The customer of mine contacted me for help with her former studio on 11/29/07. That was when I decided to take on the project of creating a higher quality product. Friends and consultants of mine would find me working 5-7 days a week at up to 9 hours a day. A great deal of work went into the OM-10, so that I can be proud to put it on the market.

Cherie: What were your biggest challenges? What would you say is your biggest accomplishment with it?

OomPoppaMowMow Snookums: Photographers all seemed to have similar feature requests. One of the most requested was having better lights. The OM-10-SL's are unique, in that they have 4 power settings, 9 color selections, and 4 height adjustments. This gives the photographer the ability to add lighting reinforcement anywhere at any angle, and with HUD controls, they can do it on the fly!

Another feature requested is the ability to create unique combinations of studios and components. That’s why I created the OM-10 Sync feature. This is one of my favorite features! The OM-10 can actually be synced and grouped with any combination of components or any amount of HUDs. This allows other studio combinations to be brought close by without any interference or cross commands. It's perfect for the larger photographers who desire to have different themed studios near each other.

Probably the most innovative feature in the OM-10 is the 21 scene memory. This brings the photographer the ability to create his or her own library of scenes available at the click of a button! The memory feature is designed so that there are 7 scenes in 3 groups. This allows the photographer to group similar scenes together, making their library more organized and efficient.

Cherie: What about Photo Life makes it special?

OomPoppaMowMow Snookums: What features or benefits does it offer not found elsewhere? In all honesty, everything I put into the OM-10 was well thought out. Even the nine lighting colors that were selected were taken from the Spectramaster color palette and converted to LSL with a calculator. This offers a more pleasing shade of color, more useful to photography than the pure colors that we see from, lets say, the red <1.00,> color vector. I believe every feature in the OM-10 was designed and implemented in a way not found in any other studio in SL.

Cherie: What current photo systems does Photo Life compete with?

OomPoppaMowMow Snookums: The N30 has established a reputation for being the most successful studio on the market. Then there is another studio called the photosphere.

Cherie: How do these systems compare?

OomPoppaMowMow Snookums: The photosphere is just that ... a sphere. While I believe the sphere design to be unique and interesting, it can cause many textures to appear distorted. As far as the N30 is concerned, it’s my belief that it has established its reputation based strongly on intimidation. While I was building the OM-10, I was informed by other studio builders that the owner of the N30 has filed many DMCA's against other studio builders in SL. Much of the advertising around the N30 states that it has been copyrighted, and that it is on file with the Library of Congress. As far as copyrights are concerned, the US Library of Congress states that "Copyright exists from the moment the work is created." That means anyone who creates an original work has copyright protection when it is created, regardless if the work has been registered or not. The Library of Congress is also very clear that "Ideas, procedures, methods, systems, processes, concepts, principles, discoveries, or devices, as distinguished from a description, explanation, or illustration" are NOT protected under copyright laws. This means the idea of a photo studio can not be copyrighted. The N30 is definitely protected, should someone come and duplicate the product and try to resell it, even under a different name; however, that does not give the owners of the N30 exclusive rights to the photo studio concept. Make no mistake. The OM-10 is nothing like the N30, and I believe this to be a good thing!

Cherie: What can Photo Life do that N30 can't?

OomPoppaMowMow Snookums: Well, Cherie, its hard to even begin discussing the differences, there are so many. But to begin with, the texture installation and management are easier. Photographers explained to me that the N30 was difficult to add their own textures to. The OM-10 can just drop textures in the appropriate texture display. I've even added a texture installer, should someone prefer it. It also has 3 texture displays, allowing the user to put different textures on the background, the floor and the alpha effects layer. This enables the creativity of the photographer to be expressed in creative scenes using up to 3 different textures. The Alpha Layer allows the users to actually add effects over their own backdrops. No other studio has this.

The 21 scene memory allows the photographer the ability to create a unique library of scenes. The slave lights have 4 heights, 4 power settings, and 9 colors, while the 1 piece pose stand has 16 rotational positions for each pose. Poses can be added easily in the singles mode. With the push of a button, the pose stand enters "couples" mode, where it becomes a menu-driven stand with 16 different poses, while still being able to access the 1 touch 16 rotational positions. Again these features are only offered by the OM-10.

The camera, probably the most humorous component, allows the user to learn the art of "Alt+Left Click" and "Ctrl+Alt+Left Click" camera controls. These camera controls are available to anyone in SL at any time. It's insulting to me that someone would try to sell an object that moves one's camera around while the "Alt+Click" client features exist. However, I did program a nice photographer animation and, for the laziest photographers, a camera push towards the subject area!

Some other features that are exclusive to the OM-10 would be Hide All Components, Single Plane Effects, and Ambient Lighting. Hide All Components hides all the components that could be an obstruction between the subject and the photographer. Single Plane Effects rezzes all effect particles on a single plain behind the subject. This eliminates the possibility of particles falling in front of the subject’s face, while Ambient Lighting creates a gentle overall lighting effect without over-saturating the subject.

The photoLIFE HUD would be the icing on the cake. This HUD actually shows the texture images for each display, while allowing the HUD wearer access to nearly every feature of the OM-10, including full control over the pose stand, controlling both slave lights independently, and access to the full 21 scene memory!

But as impressive as these features are ... they are worthless if the photographer has a constant struggle keeping the unit functioning. This is why I believe the most important difference with the OM-10 is reliability. This was the reason I began building this project. While the studio is just finishing the beta testing, I’m proud to say I've had no reports of feature failures due to script functions! The OM-10 is proving to be a solid machine and something for the SL photographer to be proud of owning.

Cherie: How much will Photo Life retail for?

OomPoppaMowMow Snookums: While we are generating a lot of buzz, the first version of the studio with all components will be offered for the initial price of $7000L. This will include upgrades as they come out. Wildflowers, the parent company, has a logo on the base of the studio that allows owners to check for future updates. As progress continues, I'll begin offering individual components and HUD packs.

Cherie: Working on any enhancements? What might those be?

OomPoppaMowMow Snookums: Wildflowers, my parent company, has a strong program in rezzing technology. I'm looking forward to bringing an advanced prop rezzer to the photoLIFE system. This will be updateable also with new props as they are developed. One of the things I’m very excited about is texture packs. The OM-10's, as they are now, are equipped to be able to install texture packs. This means we can offer different packs of textures for themed memory groups or even themed studios. All the owner will have to do is buy a texture pack then install it on the OM-10. Simple as that!

Thank you Snookums!

Vanity Universe 2008 Skin Fair

2008-03-01T18:41:00.006-05:00

Have you heard? The circus is in town, and by that I mean the Vanity Universe Skin Fair!

We just wrapped up the FACES skin show on the sim despite some unforeseen sim problems, serious restarts and a couple of unexpected crashes. We still succeeded marvelously through the hard work and total professionalism of everyone involved.

The presentation showcased thirty-seven skinners, some new, some old and every one of them fabulous creations. I was blessed to be one of the models involved in the show and enjoyed every single minute.

Working with twenty-three models on one show is always so much fun. The different personalities, the humor that’s shared and the overall professionalism of each of them just thrills me. So much passion and excitement towards making a show shine makes everyone come alive.

I have to hand out the kudos to the FACES organization and team as they seriously worked their virtual butts off to pull off a show of this magnitude. Aradia Dielli, Gillian Waldman and Phoenix Chapman are the pioneering minds behind FACES and I am truly honored to work with each one of these magnificent, talented and hard working ladies.

If you missed the show and we know a lot of you did, you can still see the skins in all their glory by visiting the sim at: S k i n F a i r 2 0 0 8, VANITY UNIVERSE (116, 107, 601)

Until then here are a few snapshots I took from backstage before the lions and tigers got loose. Enjoy!

Damiani Skins Review and Lust

2008-02-27T17:41:00.004-05:00

New skin. I can hardly think of two words more welcome in Second Life. Just saying them calls up visions of fabulous original ideas and tantalizing new makeup styles.

Say it and the tongue does a little jig then curls up and purrs like a cat on a pillow. Ahhh.

I love new skin, can you tell? Well today dear reader, I had the extreme pleasure, the down right seduction, and the overwhelming joy of receiving from my good friend Pompeja Rossini a couple of brand spanking new skins from Damiani Skins/PomJ Fashion.

A relatively new store from the creative minds of Pompeja Rossini and her partner KaoZ Koba currently located at http://slurl.com/secondlife/Zenlan/123/187/406. According to Pompeja, she does the skins makeup while KaoZ does the skin detail. And from what I’ve seen, these two work fabulously together.

I feel awfully silly saying this but I was actually trembling as I tried on my first Damiani skin. Logically I know this is foolish, it’s not really scary, it’s certainly no ones King Kong, it won’t cook me and eat me, its skin for crying out loud! But tremble I did. Anticipation and worry that it might not meet up to my over exacting, anal retentive, must be perfect expectations!!! I shook. Sigh.

The truth is skin is kind of mysterious. As it happens, it’s kind of fickle at times. Sometimes it loves our shapes, sometimes it downright loathes them. Consequently I’ve bought skins in the past that while initially I thought looked good, turned out to be a very bad decision based on having to change my shape for a runway show or for a magazine photo shoot. A deep sadness overcomes me when I think of that.

But not today! Today I bring you two hot, original, maximum enjoyment skins that just keep on making my day better and better…arrr, arrr, arrr!! I feel myself channeling Tim Allen just thinking how lucky I am!

The skin fair starts in a mere three days and this skin WILL be featured there but I am one of the lucky, lucky girls to have their sweaty little virtual palms wrapped firmly around these pixels.

Michelle skin Sophisticated and Michelle skin Fair are the two skins I’ll show you today from Damiani skins. Although there is a darker tanned version of Michelle, I chose to go with the two lighter versions and play with the sliders to see how dark I could make them. Yes, that’s right they are modifiable! Not only can you change the pigment of the skin, but the glossiness of the lips and some highlighting details of the eye shadow as well. Oh my I was in slider heaven moving those numbers around, twisting those pixels to serve my will! Am I starting to sound maniacal? Oh well, it’s my skin now dang-it I can do what I want with it!!

Ahem. Anywho, for dignity’s sake I wish I could rein this back a bit but I just can’t. Take one look at those pictures, that creamy skin, the perfect pixel combinations the details of the collarbone, perfect shading of the breasts, inner elbow definitions and oh dear lawd the makeup. Look at that makeup! Doesn’t it just make you want to tear off all your clothes, run up to your partner/spouse/significant other/jealous friend/worst enemy and scream LOOK AT ME! It did me. But for the sake of the children- ok I don’t have any children but for the sake of my dignity- don’t say it- I didn’t.

I will tell you the lips on this skin are some of the best I’ve ever seen made in Second Life and I have all the top name skins because yes, I am a skin addict. No twelve step program can help me baby. The eye makeup on this skin is simply sheer fun. Color coordinating eye makeup with complementing lips tips the scale of this skin from really good to great. The eyebrows are perfectly shaped and colored not to dark, not to light with just enough realism to make the whole look work ideal together. I didn’t have to change my shape one bit to fit this skin. It just doesn’t get any better than that.

Michelle Sophisticated is slightly lighter than Michelle Fair and both have the same makeup combinations. Although according to Pompeja Rossini, sometime next week will be a new release of a whole slew of glam makeup for the Michelle line! Already new makeup… *cries.

Another thing I want to mention before I forget are the seams of this skin. Everyone who knows me knows how picky I am about seams. But the seams on the Damiani skins are done exceptionally well. Even in the really hard to hide areas of the tummy they did a superb job. If this is their first attempts at skinning, I can’t wait to see how far they progress in the future.

Now everyone knows I have to pick on something so I won’t disappoint you this time. ;) However it’s not much. The only thing I can find to critique on this skin are the bits. They are slightly out of focus and the southern bits are bare with not as much detail as some may want and no current carpet option. But since I’m not one to go around showing my bits to every Phillip/Torley/Pathfinder there is, I’m not too concerned. And as luck would have it, Pompeja told me she’s currently working on an underpants layer of carpet for Michelle and will include it in all future packs.

In all seriousness this skin line has displaced one other in my top 5 rank of best skins in my inventory. I’m happy to say that it’s this humble ink slingers opinion that the Damiani skins should do well in the Second Life skin market. It’s shaded nicely, with great makeup, well done overall. I’m pleased as punch to have it and bring it here for you to see and drool over.

If you want to get this skin now you can find it at http://slurl.com/secondlife/Zenlan/123/187/406 but they are going to be moving possibly as soon as next week to a new grand location at plush micron 170,85,22 so go today or next week but go visit Damiani Skins/PomJ Fashion.

Thank you Pompeja and KaoZ for sharing your latest creation with me, I wish you both all the luck and success you deserve. Great job!

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Zenlan/123/187/406

Two makeup choices $1500L

PRESS RELEASE-photoLIFE OM-10

2008-02-26T09:06:00.001-05:00

photoLIFE, Hale ukana (34, 29, 753)– February 24th - Three months ago OomPoppaMowMow Snookums was visiting a friend who was complaining about difficulties she was experiencing with her current photo studio. Having considerable experience with building homes in Second Life he decided to look into the problem to see if it was something he could help with. Seeing some immediate issues with his friends’ studio he attempted to contact the creator and offer his assistance in addressing the problems. Sadly the creator of that studio did not respond to his offer.

After doing research with several photographers and photo studio owners, OomPoppaMowMow Snookums armed himself with statistics on photo studio requirements and began the creation of photoLIFE.

His goal was to build a photo studio unlike any other in Second Life. He would handle all the scripting and building himself leaving nothing to chance. This would allow him to make certain all scripting was done to his exacting details.

In the world of the internet, if you build it they will only come if you tell them you exist. His photoLIFE studio is being promoted in world and out. The ability to buy his studio on SLEX and onRez is allowing this phenomenal product reach more and more people.

This amazing studio is now available to the public and can be seen and experienced in person at photoLIFE, Hale ukana (34, 29, 753). To discover just how different photography can be in Second life, visit the site or contact OomPoppaMowMow Snookums for a demonstration of all of the photoLIFE OM-10’s amazing features.

Be sure to read the article in the next issue of The Best of SL featuring a full length interview with the creator OomPoppaMowMow Snookums himself.

OomPoppaMowMow Snookums says, remember LIFE is good.

Interview Contact: OomPoppaMowMow Snookums photoLIFE, Hale ukana (34, 29, 753)

LIFE is Good

2008-02-21T10:57:00.002-05:00

Interested in the next generation of photography in Second Life? Then make your way over to Hale ukana (34, 29, 753).
No other photography equipment in Second Life compares. Come see for yourself, try out the one and only original photoLIFE OM-10 and see how good LIFE can be.
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Hale%20ukana/43/36/751]photoLife

***COMING SOON*** The hunt for the FACE of photo Life a contest to find the model for photo Life products. How's your LIFE?

Couture On A Budget-Review GG Couture

2008-02-15T21:01:00.002-05:00

Back in Texas, I always loved seeing the t-shirt that read, “If I am what I eat, then I’m fast, cheap and easy”. Well, I’m none of the above, but if I can find a deal in clothing like that, and it’s good clothing, then I’m all for it.

Yesterday I was out sim hoping for just something fast, cheap and easy and came upon GG Couture. A tiny little shop located at Cherry Button MoonDoggies (177, 11, 28).

Not a lot of designs but what she does have out is cute, cute, and cute. I plucked up this darling pair of dark green Capri’s with a buttoned high waist on the jacket layer, fully photo realistic and great detail for wrinkles and texture. I paired it with my Last Call blouse from Kirsten with those great Seinfeld puffy sleeves, some red tights from Creamshop and of course my favorite boots from Maitreya, Bloom in black. Nothing about this combination says fast, cheap or easy but it was!

Before you could say, give me a double cheeseburger, and yes I want fries with that, I had a complete outfit suited for a night out on the town or a night in, curled up with a good book and a nice glass of wine.

There is one teeny weensy design flaw in the back seam that doesn’t match up (see picture) but it wasn’t enough to keep me from being happy with my purchase especially when these Capri’s cost only $75L! While I was there I picked up a couple of other outfits I couldn’t resist and hopefully can blog them later when I get the chance.

Whilst I was sneaking around, I ran into Giana Paine, owner and designer for GG Couture and discovered she’s opening a new store soon. We chatted briefly and she dropped the skin on me you see featured in the second picture which will be available when her new store opens. So go ahead and drool cuz yeah, I got a copy, she hooked me up and it’s very pretty skin. Thanks Giana!

Green High Waist Capri’s $75L
Cherry Button MoonDoggies (177, 11, 28)

NAIMA- New Name New Location

2008-02-08T08:34:00.001-05:00

Just a quick blurb to let you all know that great little shop I blogged back in October has changed names AND locations. Originally known as Naima Emporio, it is now simply known as NAIMA.

The owner is the same, the clothing still as fresh and original as before and the new location is simply magnificent. You've got to get time to go see this store. Very clean, very modern and ultra chic.

I managed to pluck up this uber cute, extra mini sculpted skirt while I was there courtesy of my good friend MariaBeatriz Beck, who also is the one that alerted me to the new store location. Thanks Maria!

You can find the new and improved NAIMA at: NAIMA Store, Clothes & Boots, Lagoon (66, 39, 21)

NAIMA Black Leather Sculpted Skirt- $250

Integrity- Do You Have It?

2008-02-04T14:37:00.000-05:00

So many people in Second Life. So many that claim to care about content theft. So many that love the original content creators. If that’s true, get off your asses and do something about it now. Make your voice heard. It will take you all of one minute at the most to log into Jira and VOTE to lend your voice towards stopping these heinous acts against some of our greatest content creators and designers.

I for one am devastated that Minnu may never make another skin and that someone as talented as Emila Redgrave would actually consider leaving Second Life because no one in power seems to be listening. For the love of great, original and stunning design, please click the link and VOTE. As Tigerlily Koi said, there are about 3000 in the Calla group alone. Please, please make your voice count!

Also I want to remind people what Sachi Vixen from Adam n Eve said about her skins which I think is a valiant and admirable attempt to stop thieves in their tracks:

“My PROMISE to you - If one of my skins is stolen and is offered for a lesser price, please do NOT buy it. Contact me and tell me where it is for sale by thieves and when I have verified that the skin is mine I will give it to you for free, you have no need to purchase from thieves, if you tell me about them, I will reward you with the item myself. This is the best way that I can think of to stop the thief in his tracks by making his product as worthless as he is trying to make mine. I will give it to you rather than let him profit from it.” – Sachi Vixen

Go to http://www.adam-n-eve.co.uk/ to see the entire article.

There is a way to stop this and together, with enough great minds at work and enough people willing to step up, it can happen! So be Blunt, come forward and ask people, What happened to integrity?

Support SVC-676. Do your part. Vote now.

Tuli S5 I'm in Love!

2008-02-02T15:14:00.000-05:00

Have you seen the previews of Tuli’s new S5 skin yet? If not, please lift the rock in which you’re living under, crawl out, head straight for the Fashion Feed of SL and just scroll down a little. I feel certain you’ll see five or ten blogs that have already posted pictures.

Tuli Asturias is one of those great designers that keeps cranking out the most amazing work. In addition she has always been very generous and so very kind. I asked for and received some of her newest skins to review and boy am I ever glad I did. Normally I would say I have reservations about reviewing new skins because as everyone knows, I’m extremely picky about skin and I will tell you exactly what I think holding back nothing.

I have been know to yes, use Ctrl 0 to zoom in on seams and take glaring photos of pixilation at its worst. This time however, I am happy to tell you I had nothing to worry about. Not that I was that really all that concerned because anyone that knows Tuli’s work knows she’s a perfectionist at everything she does from clothing to skin.

This skin is no different in that it’s just sheer perfection. The makeup is incredible, the skin tones and shading stunning and those lips, omg no one does lips like Tuli.

Take a look at these photos I shot, completely untouched. This skin is divine. In the pictures I’m showing the three skins I liked best and had time to review.

Tuli S5 Med Glam 1, Tuli S5 Pale Rebel 2 and Tuli S5 Tan Diva 2.

The S5 skin line has 7 skin tones Pale, Asian, Light, Medium, Tan, Exotic and Goth.
The initial release will offer a choice of 8 makeup packs per tone, including Diva, Glam, Lace, Natural, Natural Freckles, Rebel, Sweet and Tears. Each pack contains 3 versions, but all of her makeups will be available in singles.

The release date for this line of skins is February 7th, 12 am SL time, only at the main store in Le Zoo, just a few days away. You can make it, just take a few deep breaths and know that in a mere five days these skins can be yours.

Le Zoo - Shops & Entertainment, Le Zoo (61, 166, 21)

The Hunt is On!

2008-01-28T22:51:00.000-05:00

Just a quick post to let you know I have been ordered—I mean offered a job with The Best of SL Magazine as Fashion Coordinator. I’m not really certain what that entails as Frolic Mills, owner of The Best of SL, didn’t give me much of a chance to either turn down the offer or ask questions. I do know he wants me to find new up and coming designers or fashion related events to write about and that is right up my alley.

Soooooo, in light of that, if you know of someone who has an amazing talent, and is just starting out, someone whose designs just knock your socks off but they haven’t been given the limelight, drop me an IM and let me know. I’ll go see their work and if I think it’s amazing I’ll review their designs and or creations and write up an article featuring them for everyone to see.

Don’t be shy. I’m looking for the best of the best new designers on the grid from men and women’s clothing, to shoes, jewelry or hair, you name it, if its fashion related I want to know about it.

Vegas Baby!

2008-01-23T20:30:00.001-05:00

We all know what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas right? Well tell that to Austie Pegler of Reasonable Desires. Last week Austie dropped on me a few new outfits and one of them was Blue Vegas Showgirl. I could have chosen White Lotus or Blush Can Can but figured nah, I’m in a showgirl kinda mood so let’s roll the dice and see what comes up.

As I opened the box I already knew from previous reviews of Reasonable Desires to expect a complete outfit and I wasn’t disappointed this time. Blue Vegas Showgirl comes complete with ten pieces. That’s right I said ten. From the showgirl stockings to the feathery headdress including the tiara, it’s got everything for the showgirl in you. It’s a bright vivid blue and black stripe with a tiny little beading of black lace along the bodice and back. Very cute and very sexy.

As with most of the items from RD I didn’t have to adjust one prim. Everything attached perfectly the first time including the headpiece. I’m not sure how Austie and Martini Joliat manage to make that happen when some of the big name designers can’t but they do. The feather fans attach to each hand as you can see in the picture, the tail pieces are perfectly aligned, the tiara and headpiece are separate and fit perfect on the first try. There are some minor seam issues but nothing that can be seen without using control 0 to zoom in on and if they’re looking that close, honey they’re not looking at seams. I swear when you put this on, whether you’re a gambler or not, you get this overwhelming urge to yell “hit me!”

Even if you’re not into Vegas or the Vegas like atmosphere, there’s always someplace to wear Blue Vegas Showgirl. From Second Life events, to Halloween parties to your very own bedroom. Hey, what happens in your bedroom stays in your bedroom- no seriously it stays there I don’t want to know what goes on in your bedroom. No pictures, no voice recordings, nada, I don’t want to know!

Anyway, I give this outfit from Reasonable Desires two oranges and one banana on the slot machine. I would give it three oranges but then it would be perfect and we all know that’s hard to achieve in second life. If I had one thing to nit pick about, and this is really digging deep to pick, would be I wish there was a wee bit, a tiny bit, a fraction more texturing to the feathers as the bright colors tends to overwhelm the texture details a little. But like I said, that’s digging really deep to pick on it.

Blue Vegas Showgirl can be yours for $225L at Reasonable Desires in either green, yellow, blue, pink, purple, aqua, orange, or red. Or buy the fat pack for only $999L. Reasonable Desires is located at http://slurl.com/secondlife/Reasonable%20Desires/132/204/27.

And remember, if you’re going to Vegas, please don’t bring the video camera, that means you too Austie!

Brenda Clellon goes Universal

2008-01-20T19:18:00.000-05:00

***WARNING EXTRA LONG BLOG POST*** but worth it :)

So, I was Miss Canada in the much publicized Miss SL Universe competition yesterday.

Along with 11 other girls, each representing 12 countries, we worked for three weeks perfecting our looks, our style, and our posing and sharpening our minds in anticipation of the big day and facing the judges with questions unknown.

Each girl approached the task with a different perspective on style and fashion. We all had to come up with and develop a "national costume" representing the country for which we stood. Three weeks of planning a costume for an opening act that was expected to be spectacular, exciting, and thrilling with a high "wow" factor was a great deal of work. Each girl did a bang up job. All of the costumes were extremely inventive, creative and artistic eye candy. I feel certain the audience got their money's worth from this show.

In addition, we had the usual beauty pageant swimsuit competition, in which we all wore the same design created by the very talented Nicky Ree. The shoes were provided by the ever popular, always funny, super sharp and witty Melanie Zhao. All we had to do was accessorize with jewelry and hair and we were ready to walk the runway.

The next part was the formal evening gown competition. Each girl had to either find an off-the-rack dress or find a designer willing to work with them to create a unique dress specifically for the Miss SL Universe competition. Now, granted, some girls had more money to throw at this than others, and then some were creative, and found sponsors to pay for their dresses, hair, etc. but not all.

Originally I contacted Neferia Able from Ivalde to make my formal gown. I begged, pleaded and whined sufficiently and finally, she agreed to the take on the task and make my gown. She is very kind, very sweet but she's also a very busy lady. During this same time she had a fashion show in which she had to make 12 new designs. My original concept for the gown was the dress from the movie, Ever After. I loved that long, flowing, beaded look that just captivated your attention and felt it would be perfect for the formal part of the competition.

The first attempt she made was lovely, but not exactly what I was looking for. I asked if she could go back and remake the skirt (God knows, I hated to even ask) and she agreed. I made the mistake of showing her some pictures of how I thought the skirt should look and I think I must have confused her, so her next attempt was way off the mark. I didn't hear from her for awhile as was starting to get worried. With time growing short, and no gown in the inventory for the show, I started looking elsewhere. Finally, I heard from Neferia the day before the show. She had designed a very pretty gown which she is now marketing as "Serenity" that I thought was lovely, but not what I was looking for as far as the competition goes. Because she was rushing off to Spain the next morning, there was no way to do further alterations, nor did I even ask. I thanked her profusely, wished her a wonderful trip, and went off in search of something off the rack that would work for the last part of the competition I clearly wasn't ready for.

Two days before the competition, a couple of us girls were sitting around talking about the gowns, all of them were, of course, ready and I was the last hold-out. It became a joke as we discussed what I might wear in place of a formal… a barrel? A sandwich sign? Nothing but a maple leaf? Enough of that… I told the girls I had to go search for something that might work and left them laughing in the distance.

At first, I was completely lost. I didn't want to wear something that had been seen a million times before. Don't get me wrong. Nicky Ree, Nonna Hedges, Leezu Baxter and the likes there of are all talented designers and without question have an abundance of gowns from which to choose. Yet all of them have been seen many times before, and, for me, I really wanted something original, different and … unknown. I started my search on the Japanese sims, just pulling up the map, picking an island, going there and flying around to different shops to see what was available. Nothing caught my eye. Then I remembered the Brazilian sims. Yes, yes. I know they've had a lot of bad press, but popular opinion has never stopped me before, and it wasn't going to stop me now.

The first sim had nothing I was looking for. Nor the second. So I decided to try an Italian sim. Again, the first nothing. Nor the second. But the third is where I hit pay dirt. There, on this little resort sim, in the middle of a small shopping area sits a very tiny store with only three or four designs in the entire store, all gowns. I was flying and camming-in to save time, but this one brought me down to the ground where I could closely inspect the wares. Preciosity of Style is so small you might overlook it if you're just flying by. The fact that there are only three designs might also deter someone because they're used to a larger selection of items.

But, of the three designs, all beautiful, one caught my eye immediately. A silver and gold bodice designed with a decidedly art deco feel flowing down the body, the hips and over the legs made up the shirt and glitch pants -- very old Hollywood -- with a low flexy skirt that hugged the hips and flowed out around the wearer in a circle of liquid silver and gold.

In an instant, I fell in love with the dress pictured in this design. I have always had a love affair with old Hollywood-type design -- noir outfits and the combination of gold and silver. But I admit I was hesitant to buy it with all those questions going through my mind: Will it be like the picture? Has this been Photoshopped? But, being in dire straits for a gown, I thought, "Lets take a chance."

At only L$800 for a gown that I thought looked spectacular in the picture, I figured that if I get lucky and it looks only HALF as good, I'll be happy.

So, click! Buy it I did. And then… nothing.

Oh, the payment went through but the gown didn't arrive. Sigh. I was devastated. I thought "Great, what else could go wrong?"

I'm always the one to take a chance on the little guy, the underdog, the unknown. I like finding that designer, that person whose name is unknown, that diamond in the rough. But this time I thought "Wonderful. Fantastic. I'll never get this gown or my money back!"

Right away, I sent the designer, Brenda Clellon, a message. I explained that I had bought the dress, and the funds went through, but no dress arrived. Then I waited. I didn't have to wait long and Brenda responded. Brenda is Italian, and English is not her first language, but she quickly understood what I was telling her. Amidst all of the SL problems at the time, she immediately sent me the dress. She was very kind, extremely helpful and truly concerned I not only received the dress but was happy with it.

I ran home, unpacked it, placed it in a folder in my inventory and started putting the pieces together. Here is where I run out of words. The picture of this dress in her store does no justice to this design. It's absolutely remarkable. The textures design is nothing short of stunning. The way she designed the skirts -- two separate skirts to flow around you -- is like watching a melody of silver and gold taffeta slowly drape around your body. It's simply magnificent. This texturing is the best I've seen. I loved the design of the texture, how it flowed down the body, hugging and accentuating all the right parts and places. A beautiful prim bow on the back with a flowing scarf, lovely opera-length gloves with open fingers, accessorize the outfit along with the two flowing skirts.

I was in heaven. But -- and yes, I am picky -- I wanted the skirt to be slightly different. More poof to it. More... umpf. This being the Miss SL Universe contest, I really wanted it to be special. But, I was willing to live with it, as I really didn't have a choice -- time being as short as it was. Shortly after unpacking the dress, Brenda sent me an IM and asked if I was happy with it. Of course, I gushed over how much I loved this dress! I gave her the proper kudos she deserved because, lets face it (see pictures), this dress is spectacular. I explained my situation to her -- all about the competition, the gown I wanted, how it didn't work out with the first designer and how I thought her dress was perfect, with the exception of the skirt.

There was a short pause, and she asked, "Cherie, what are you looking for?"

So I explained as much as I could between Google translating English to Italian and English, what it was I had in mind for that dress.

Another short pause, and Brenda said, "I can do this for you."

I said, "Brenda, there is one day until the competition. How can you get this done? I can't ask you to do this! It's just too much."

She said, "Cherie, you tell me what you need and I will make it for you." Then she added, "But, Cherie, I have to tell you, I am a new designer."

What a wonderful person! How sweet, kind and unbelievably generous. She doesn't know me from Adam, but she's willing to work -- and work quickly -- on a dress that will require a great deal of prim work. And she's worried because she is unknown. Such a humble woman.

I know this has been a long blog entry, but I really felt that you needed to hear how I came upon my new friend, Brenda, and her wonderful shop, Preciosity of Style. How talented this woman is.

I said, "Brenda, your work is just unbelievably beautiful! If you had not told me you were a new designer, I would have never known. This dress is so stunning, any one of the big name designers would be green with envy over this!"

She was thrilled at how happy I was with her design. After a really nice discussion about the competition and what I was looking for, she excused herself and immediately started working on it. She asked that I just give her a little time and she would contact me when ready. I was nervous -- afraid that I had not explained myself sufficiently to describe what I was looking for. Worried that she might not be able to do it, being so new. And, of course, there was the clock. It kept ticking towards the day of the Miss SL Universe competition.

The next day -- the day before the competition -- Brenda contacts me and wants to show me her progress. My palms were sweating as I tp'ed her into my home. She arrived in the dress, skirt attached. My mouth hit the floor. It was one hundred percent exactly what I was looking for. I was so excited! I couldn't stop babbling about how much I loved it. Brenda kept trying to say something, but I was too busy gushing about that dress to listen. Finally, I let her have a word in edgewise, and she said, "No, no, it's not finished yet. I still make it more perfect. I can make it MORE beautiful!"

And with that, I thought, "OMG, I'm not sure how that is possible!"

But she was insistent that this was just a work-in-progress. She only wanted to make sure it was close to what I wanted. Not only was it close but EXACTLY what I wanted!

Off she goes to make a perfect dress even more perfect. I was in shock. I couldn't believe my luck. Not only had I found the dress of my dreams, I had met this wonderful person, with whom I have quickly formed a strong friendship. Maybe my luck was changing and there was hope for the competition after all!

Later that day, Brenda tp'ed me to her to inspect the final design. I don't know how she did it, but she was right. She made it even more beautiful than it had been before. Unbelievably, incredibly, beautiful! By far -- and in total honesty -- of all of the 32,000 or so items I have in my inventory, this is my favorite design, my favorite dress. I love this dress with a passion. I told Brenda just how thankful I was to have met her, to know her and now to be her friend. I invited her to see her design on the runway of the Miss SL Universe competition and she was so excited.

Being a new designer, this must have been thrilling for her. I tried to pay Brenda for her custom work -- which she deserved -- but she wouldn't take a Linden. As hard as I tried, she wouldn't hear of it. She was just thrilled to be involved in helping me. What a great gal. I just love this girl.

Well, in an attempt to shorten an already novel-sized blog post, I will skip right to the end.

In the end, I didn't win Miss SL Universe. BabyHoney Baily, representing Greece, was crowned Miss SL Universe. Congratulations BabyHoney! But, when I put on that dress, and stood on that stage, I truly felt like a winner already. I knew in my heart, I had the most spectacular dress on the runway last night. Not that the other dresses weren't good -- they certainly were -- but without sounding too bold, I know mine was the best. Because of that, I proudly stood on stage, wearing a Brenda Clellon original, and could hold my head high, even though I didn't win the competition.

It was a great experience and I'm glad I did it. I met some wonderful people, made some great friends and had a blast working with Frolic Mills, the owner of The Best of SL and the Miss SL Universe competition. I'm not sure I'll do another one of these anytime soon though -- it's a lot of work. Not only time-wise, but an emotional investment as well. Maybe after some time, one never knows.

In the end, BabyHoney won the crown, but I won a great new friendship, a beautiful gown that I will treasure forever, and memories that can't be bought.

You can find Brenda's shop here: ITALY ISLAND RESORT, italia, ita, ITALY ISLAND RESORT (153, 127, 25)

Evening Star- Review

2008-01-03T15:04:00.000-05:00

A couple of days ago, I found myself at the doorstep of Adam and Eve hunting for God-knows-what.

Anyone who knows me knows that, most days, I wander about shopping for new and cool things. But, before I could even get to the teleport sign I was greeted by Sachi Vixen, co-owner and designer of Adam and Eve. Sachi was wearing the most brilliantly-designed gown in deep red, with a gold brocade trim. It was so lovely I was immediately interested in finding it.

Hesitant at first to speak to her, I happened to comment on how wonderful it looked, and asked where I could find this particular gown.

In retrospect, I'm not sure why I was so hesitant to speak with her. Sachi was super nice, and proceeded to tell me that this was one of her latest creations -- not yet released -- but it would be out in a couple of days.

She indicated that there were still a couple of things she wanted to correct on the gown before putting it up for sale -- some details she was not yet happy with.

To my eye, it looked perfect! But not to hers apparently.

She then told me if I liked the design she was wearing, I should check out some other gowns upstairs that might also appeal to me.

Not only did Sachi point me in the right direction, alerting me to the demos she had on each gorgeous gown, she actually gave me a copy of her magnificent Blush 2 gown in aqua!

Wow! Was I surprised! I couldn't get changed fast enough! My deepest apologies to the newbies standing around at the time, who happened to see me strip down and into this gown! But I just had to see it on!

It was great! Not only is Sachi just as obsessively compulsive about seams as I seem to be (no pun intended), but she's extremely friendly, down to earth and easy to talk to.

After a nice conversation with her, I learned that she is exceptionally concerned with the quality of her work and will not put something out for sale until she has corrected the very last stitch that annoys her.

I like that in a designer. Just as picky as I am about buying clothing, she is all about making clothes that meet her high standards (and mine).

After this very pleasant first interaction, I went on about my business and let her get on with hers.

Last night, I received an IM from her. She says, "Cherie are you the one that was asking about that gown I was wearing the other day?" After my initial surprise that she even remembered my name, I quickly said, "Yep that was me."

The next thing I know, she's given me this demo of the gown I had been admiring, now called Evening Star!

I was so surprised!

This woman is super smart, extremely sweet and friendly, and obviously deeply concerned about her customers' happiness. We had another great conversation that just reinforced my opinion that Sachi Vixen has got to be one of the nicest people I've ever met on Second Life! Not to mention one of the best designers.

Evening Star is everything I hoped it would be. Great texture work, seams to die for, and a design that makes you look stunning wearing it.

It has everything you need in an evening gown: grace, style and creativity.

Sachi let me in on a little secret. She had planned on releasing it today, but suggested that I not buy it until Friday, if I was a part of her Group. You see, she's taken customer appreciation to the next level and is offering a Buy-One-Get-One-Free sale on Friday for all of her her group members.

If I were you, Dear Reader, I would quickly join that group and stock up on some of the most amazing styles and designs Second Life has to offer tomorrow, Friday, January 4 th.

Sachi Vixen and Damen Gorilla are partners in Adam and Eve. Both are enormously talented at what they do. If you like shoes --and who doesn't -- get thee over to Adam and Eve and check out Damen's work on Incanti, which is another item I just happened to pick up on my shopping spree.

Incanti is beautifully detailed, jeweled shoes that will go perfectly with my new gown, Evening Star, when I pick it up tomorrow, along with my free item of equal value.

Thanks, Sachi for taking the time not only to share with me your latest designs, but to chat and get to know me better. You're a great gal and a tremendous designer.

Evening Star- 8 Delicious colors $1000L

Incanti- 14 Style choices $300L

You can get to Adam and Eve using this SLURL :http://slurl.com/secondlife/Genesis/52/157/23

A side note. Thanks to my brilliant partner Xtabber Young for being my editor. He takes the lunatic ramblings I scribble on Word and turns them into something that can actually be read. I love you baby, you’re the best!

I Felt That

2007-12-28T17:30:00.000-05:00

*Originally posted on InStyle Blog by Cherie Parker

Do you ever get the feeling that you’re not in Kansas anymore? Well, that’s how I felt yesterday when I was wandering around, minding my own business, teleporting to and fro and found myself at the doorstep of *pop feel*. Sitting in the middle of KyuKaruizawa, beside a flowing river, in a quiet little Japanese sim is this small bold red building with three walls and no roof. That’s *pop feel*.

Inside, one wall is filled from top to bottom, every available prim space occupied with as much retro modern wear as can fit. The other wall is brimming with a decidedly different look, Japanese kimono wear created with a twist of modern fashion. *pop feel* has that magical appeal towards both modern and traditional and has married the two nicely together in a 1152sq meter area. You know right away when you enter that *pop feel* is a different kind of shop. The items are neatly displayed, not a lot of hype, the ad work clean and concise, it just makes you feel easy and ready to shop.

As I do in most stores, I scanned the walls to see if anything jumped out at me, grabbed me by the throat, screaming buy me! buy me! I admit once inside *pop feel* I was under a great deal of stress as most items on the wall of retro modern were throttling me and demanding my attention. Mustering my self control and watching my dwindling lindens as I made mental purchases one after another, I finally decided upon a sweet little retro orange jacket that had gained my attention and current control of my wallet as I quickly clicked that baby into my inventory. At only $150L, it didn’t really hurt that bad. I couldn’t wait to get home and try it on.
This jacket in fall colors of orange, yellow and brown has the most amazing texture. I can’t believe I’m not wearing a real boucle wool jacket when I slipped this on. The prim collar, wrist prims and even the short babydoll type hem fit perfectly and without adjustment, that’s a rare thing on me. For $150L you get seven pieces, the jacket and all prim attachments, plus a contrasting turtleneck undershirt and some short pants. I paired my jacket with my favorite flap pocket cords from Luminosity in charcoal and my trusty Old Laceup Boots in reddish from Shiney things. Perfect for a day outside, all warm and snuggly in my new *pop feel* boucle jacket, cords and boots, I’m ready to take the dog for a walk, a walk in the park or horseback riding with friends. This jacket ensemble is a great addition to my inventory, I can see pairing it with a number of items already. Thanks *pop feel*, I think I have that lovin feeling. ;)

You can find *pop feel* at: http://slurl.com/secondlife/KyuKaruizawa/103/29/23

REVIEW: Reasonable Desires

2007-12-20T10:17:00.000-05:00

Recently Austie Pegler co-owner and designer of Reasonable Desires dropped on me a pack of items so full it took me days to go through it all. This being my first evaluation of items someone has willingly given me for review, I was quite thrilled to dig thru the boxes discovering in them item after item. Quickly I noticed a theme in the content of the folders she sent me, and at first was a bit disappointed because most of the items appeared to be costumes. I’m not much of a costume girl, I don’t really go out, dress up as Seven of Nine, or Lizzie Borden very much, so I developed a big lip and sat down to finish going through things with a heavy sigh.

However, once I started opening files, and trying the outfits I’m not sure exactly what happened, but with each piece I put on I felt myself having more and more fun. I mean come on, how can you not have fun when you’re trying on “Reindeer with Rudolf option!”? That’s a classic!

Those antlers, that nose, that cute furry little tail, all included! Even a matching pair of fur lined booties! Oh now that was fun. And not done badly at all. I’m not going to tell you that all the seams are flawless but who cares. I know a lot of haute couture designers whose seams aren’t flawless either. This is a very cute design, perfect for the holidays and just plain fun.

Next I tried on “Christmas Cutie!” a full Christmas outfit complete with a super mini skirt, belt, fur lined booties with prim buckles, Santa hat, a couple of different top versions and all the fur trim you could ask for. This adorable little outfit is very sexy and will surely make your partner, boyfriend/girlfriend or significant other say ho! ho! Oh yes!

Along the same lines is “Christmas Cape and hood w/lingerie”. Same textures as on the “Christmas cutie” but this one comes with a full length fur trimmed cape, stockings, garters, and matching lingerie. This design is a bit more suited for the private party you may have at home alone with that special someone by the fire, sipping hot apple cider, allowing them to reach over and unlatch the prim clasp on the fur cape. Ahem… anyway.

Done with Christmas items and finding the boxes empty around me, I started in on the more “adventurous” outfits as I deemed them. “French Maid Version DEUX!”, “Alice” and “Blistering Black Pirate”. Each of these is a complete outfit with almost everything you need to tie together the look. The only thing missing from Alice and French Maid are the shoes but RD has supplied everything else for a thorough look down to the white stuffed rabbit or drink for Alice, the feather duster for the French Maid and the eye patch and dagger sheath for the Pirate. They seem to have thought of every detail in these costumes and I can’t tell you how much I would appreciate that if I were a costume party freak not having to run around trying to accessorize the outfit. These costumes are really good. The detail and content supplied makes them just perfect for the slacker in me. No hunting around for pieces to accessorize they already thought of it and in most cases, included it.

Next I tried on some of RD’s lingerie and must say I was quite surprised to see that it’s done rather well. My absolute favorite things now are the two pairs of French Knickers Austie sent me. OMG they are adorable! They come in black or white lace with little flowers strategically placed and in my opinion are perfect and we all know how hard lingerie can be to create.

Included in the items Austie sent was a note card with a bit of history and detail about Reasonable Desires. Austie indicated that while they’ve been in business since 2006 Reasonable Desires has been virtually unheard of in the blogging community. I found that to be extremely odd, so I decided to take a trip over to check out one of the stores. I chose the Reasonable Desires Island where I found a very large and accommodating shop with not only costumes but lingerie, casual wear, formal wear, silks, hats, wings, swimsuits, boots and accessories. It’s open and inviting, all the items are easy to see and the detail on the advertisements is exactly “what you see is what you get”. My one gripe if I had one, would be some items didn’t have prices on the ads, you had to click to get the price but I digress into petty on that one. With their prices being so reasonable I can surely overlook that.

The RD collaboration is a combination of the minds of Austie Pegler and Martini Joliat. Between them they have built this business from a small 6 item shop to one that has over 300 products, almost 100 vendor locations, and 3 main stores including an island named Reasonable Desires. The island not only contains the store, but a rather cool pyramid maze/puzzle designed and scripted by Martini Joliat that btw, I could not get past like the second puzzle in…dang it.

I wish I had time to blog about every costume and outfit they sent me because each one was so cool. But to do so would push this into next week and by then, well it’s Christmas and I really must be at the table “reviewing food” if you know what I mean.

I have to sincerely thank Austie and Martini for dropping these items on me. I was pleasantly surprised and genuinely had a great time trying on all these outfits that I find to be well done and extremely well priced, really rather a bargain for the amount of items you get with each outfit. I’m not sure how they can afford to do it for so little but these two clearly have the costume niche covered and covered well. It’s not haute couture folks but it’s not meant to be. It’s good clothing, well done costumes and excellent prices, a value from my perspective.

I’m adding Reasonable Desires to my list of favorite stores not only for the well priced items but simply because I love the fact with this store you get what you pay for and more. Thanks again Austie and Martini.

You can find Reasonable Desires by doing a search or take this SLURL: http://slurl.com/secondlife/Reasonable%20Desires/132/204/27

French Maid Version Deux! $150L -Blistering Black Pirate $250L-Alice $199L

Christmas Cutie! $175L-Christmas Cape and hood w/lingerie $225L
Reindeer with Rudolf option! $125

High Stepping

2007-12-12T20:33:00.000-05:00

You know there are only a couple of things in Second Life that makes my virtual heart beat faster… shoes and hair. Let me qualify that. Good shoes and good hair. When I first came to SL the only decent shoemaker I could find, and believe me I searched, was Nikki Clayton of Minx. I probably own about oh, 95% of Nikki’s shoes… so shoot me if I don’t like wedges. Thankfully now the times they are a changing, and good cobblers abound. Not only is Nikki still cranking out the stylish hoof accessories, but now there’s Zhao, Tesla, Enkythings and Insolence just to name a few. But please no more! My shoe budget just can’t take another good designer!

Alas, awhile back I had the opportunity to visit a new shoe store before it officially opened. Quietly sneaking in I noticed a sign that spoke my language. Half price off, it screamed! (If you joined the group) Half price on shoes?? Oh baby you sure do know how to sweet talk a girl. With very little hesitation I quickly dumped another group from my, at-the- limit of 25, and joined up, thus being rewarded with half off the listed price for any and all pairs of shoes! Good thing too because half price on the pair I bought was around $485LD. I know what you’re thinking… $485 is half price?? Yes, that’s half price friends, not full. Evidently that didn’t deter me as I clicked that sweet pair of slingbacks into my inventory and was on my way. Days went by and I rarely took them off. I was sooo happy with my purchase. These shoes are not only hot they’re smokin’ HAWT! The texture and design is just so incredible. The heels make your virtual feet scream in agony just looking at them they’re so high, but omg can you live without them? I think not. It’s time to tell you what shoe shop owns the tile of “my latest Achilles heel”.

Stiletto Moody.

Stiletto Moody has only been around SL about a year now but wow, she’s clearly got a grasp on shoe design that makes my ten little piggies’ squeal with delight. There’s just this one little, teensy, weensy thing that bothers me though. It’s the price. Yes I know, I said I’m willing to pay for good design in previous posts and that’s true. But dang, $975 is by far the most expensive shoe I have ever seen in SL and I’ve seen them all. Are they good? Better than good. Are they creative and unique? Yes, that too. Are they worth the $975? Possibly. But it still hurts to shell out that much for a pair of shoes. While I have no qualms about going and buying more than one pair of shoes at Minx, and the likes thereof, I have to say I hesitate when I step into Stiletto Moody’s. However, I can see the border lights flashing, and feel myself propelled forward, if you don’t hear from me for awhile… someone please come look for me in the ankle bootie isle.

My friends, now that you know about Stiletto Moody’s, I feel certain I’ll be seeing you there on occasion, haunting the store for sales like I do. Drooling over the latest designs and breathing in the scent of the virtual leather. My only hope is that Stiletto will take mercy on us and bring back the half price sales, if not, you may find me yet again camping somewhere for shoe money.

Here are the details on her designs from the lowest price shoes to the highest;

Pumps $825
Slingbacks $875
Studded Pumps $875
Ankle boots $875
Platforms $950
Pumps w/ ankle straps $975

Fusion Show Cancelled

2007-12-09T12:39:00.000-05:00

Sorry folks but the Fusion Fashion show was cancelled. I'm not sure what the reasons were specifically but, that's the way it is. Gladly there is always another fashion show right around the corner.

Fashion Show Weekend!

2007-12-07T23:39:00.000-05:00

Just a quick blurb to alert you to a couple of fashion shows tomorrow you don't want to miss. Designers galore! Check the picture for the show information on Fusion's "Breathless" show! I wanna see some fashion faces there friends!

Next up is the FACES, Glam World & SOS Children Charity Event. Saturday 1pm & 7pm SL time. Everyone needs to come support this charity. We're talking about feeding hungry children here! Bring your friends, your neighbors, your weird cousin IT, but get them down to Glam World for the show and give from the heart!

Join FACES for a fashion showcase and charity event celebrating the grand re-opening of Glam World.
The show will benefit SOS Children's Village foundation for African orphans, with all donations directly assisting children affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Africa.(http://www.soschildrensvillages.org.uk/aids-africa/)
SOS Children's Village is the world's largest orphan and abandoned children charity. Your generous donations this weekend will be used 100% by and for the thousands of children suffering from the tragic HIV/AIDS epidemic in Africa. Kiosks will be placed on the Sim over the weekend. Please take the time to donate to this worthy cause.
Featuring the fine fashions of- Artilleri- Chez Fine Clothing- Insolence- Leezu Baxter Designs- Maitreya- MG Fashions- MM Skins- Nicky Ree- Serene Sensations- Surf Co.- Truth- Veschi
To cut down on the lag at our event, we ask that you please remove all scripted items, including AO's and radar/mystitool HUD's, and all prim items. We appreciate your cooperation with this request.Glam World Fashion Hall

A Stitch in Time

2007-11-29T19:11:00.000-05:00

All right, let's get down to business. I promised to review a couple of skins before the holidays, but as things go, I got a wee bit sidetracked by an overdose of tryptophan and sugar. But I've detoxed now and I'm ready to go.

First, let's take a look at the new skins by Launa Fauna, CHAI by LF Fashions. She has an adequate number of skin tones available, ranging from the darkest Cinnamon, moving lighter to Honey, Ginger, Cream and to the lightest, Sugar.

Each comes with a number of different makeup styles along a spectrum from light to heavy depending upon your preferred style. The choices seem abundant.

She has color-changeable eyebrows, but, in my opinion, they are still a bit heavy, hard to color and could use a lighter touch. This would yield more realistic eyebrows.

Her makeup detail is quite lovely, with full lips and variations of eye makeup and lip colors that work well together. I have no dispute with her makeup ability or the tone of her skins. In fact, the tones are decent, have a good range, nice shadings and quality definitions.

My bone-to-pick is about the seams. Yes, I am picky. And, yes, I do know from talking to a friend of mine -- also a skinner -- that seams are the bane of every skinner's existence. But these seams are really just too obvious. According to my friend, there are a number of ways to avoid this, (see pictures) but it takes time and effort.

That being said, it's my opinion that if you are charging L$1200 a pop -- no multi packs available -- you might want to make a more concerted effort towards these seemingly minor details and smooth out or blend the seams.

When I first picked up my CHAI demo, I was very happy with the makeup and was excited about adding to my growing skin collection. That is, until I noticed the dreaded seams. Not that I show that much skin, mind you, but these seams are on the neck and shoulders, where, if I can see them, everyone else can too. I prefer not to look like a rag doll. I contacted Launa Fauna, and sent pictures, but never received any feedback. Let's hope she takes it under advisement and works those out for the next batch of skins.

The next skin is by Trixie Wexler of The Plague. Her store has a variety of items for sale, from clothing and shoes, to shapes and skins. She has two major skin lines and also has a couple of special edition skins.

The first skin I looked at is Trixxxotic Passion and comes in pale, light and tan skin tones. Each skin is L$500, and the four pack is L$1500.

The other skin line is called Epidemic, with adjustable skin tones, lip color, eyeliner and nail polish. Each skin is L$1000 and the four packs are just L$3000.

Both Trixxxotic and Epidemic have smooth creamy skin textures and decent makeup choices, but of the two, Trixxxotic is my favorite. The eyebrows and makeup on Epidemic just don't feel as blended or real as her Trixxxotic line. The Trixxxotic skins have fine definitions and offer a good assortment of color and makeup ranging from mild to wild.

The skin texturing is well done, however, once again, we have the issue with seams -- this time at the shoulders (see pictures) in both skin lines.

As with Launa, I sent Trixie a note with pictures describing the issue. However, Trixie was quick to respond and was very thankful for bringing this issue to her attention. She indicated that she had not noticed those skin seams and planned to address them.

Personally, I'm looking forward to that, and I plan on picking up a Trixxxotic or two when she does. At only L$500 a skin, how can I resist?

In closing, both skinners I've reviewed here are quite talented and clearly have a good grasp on makeup detail and skin shading. However, both tended to skip over the small details of seams and blending in those areas.

I find it curious that would be the case, but as I was told recently by another skin aficionado, it's the makeup that sells the skin. Well, that may be the case for some out there, but not me. I like to know when I spend over L$1000 on something, it's going to be of the highest quality, and details will not be overlooked.

Revolution

2007-11-17T16:09:00.000-05:00

Lately, a wave of change seems to be rolling through the blogging community.

I'm quite happy with this "revolution" because it appears that more and more bloggers are choosing to bring to light important issues concerning some designs/designers and the blogger's opinion about these issues.

One designer, LBD, has been a hot topic lately. Numerous discussions regarding her pricing structures, business practices and even -- and this is what I like to hear -- the assertion that she may be Photoshopping her product pictures to make them look more favorable than reality.

It isn't that I like to see a designer cut to shreds in the blogging community -- no, that's not it. But frankly I've grown very tired of the "canned" responses normally posted on blogs: "It's wonderful!"; "It's perfect!"; "It's the new hot thing!" Blah, blah, blah.

As a Second Life consumer myself, I am drawn more to the reviews or blogs that post information that I can actually use. For example, knowing the price of an item has always been something I scan. I won't pay for a name alone, nor will I pay for the hottest new fashion trend.

What I will pay for is what appeals to me as a good price for a good product -- value. Fashion trends aside and just my not-so-humble-opinion, but there are some items LBD has designed that I do believe are worth the money. Others, I simply think are price inflated, and I can't or won't even try to justify. Are her designs worthy? That's a personal decision only you can make.

But this isn't specifically about LBD. There are other designers, skinners, and hair makers out there that continue to make products and market them so that they appear more favorable and cover up design flaws.

The reviewers discussing these items continue to paint their reviews a disingenuous rose color with only positive remarks, and fail to add the essential "However there are some things you need to be aware of" remarks.

"Give us both sides" is what I say. Post the good, the bad, and the ugly. Don't placate the designers by highlighting only what appears to be positive. That serves no purpose, and ultimately someone is going to purchase these items based on a blogger's review and be unhappy because they didn't get the full story.

One more relevant example. Recently, a new skinner has been being blogged and reviewed ad nauseum with only glowing, shiny reviews. I happen to know those reviews are not 100% accurate, providing full disclosures to readers. I've picked up demos of two skins lately one from the heavily-reviewed new skinner and one from another that's been around for awhile. Suffice it to say I found issues that consumers need to be aware of before shelling out $1800 for skin. (I plan to blog on both soon, but I've been a bit busy with my new shape business so this might take a couple of days.)

I contacted both skinners and provided them with pictures detailing what I found, and what I thought the issues were. One was kind enough to respond, and was quite appreciative, in fact, because she said she was not aware of the problem.

The other skinner I have not yet heard from.

Let me just add that I believe that is how a design review should go: "It doesn't necessarily reflect the opinion of the management or staff." There's my disclaimer, as if I needed one.

My advice to all you blog readers out there is: post a comment. And, not just here, but on other review blogs as well. Let them know what you want to hear and see and what content you need in order to make an informed decision. There's nothing wrong with full disclosure. It makes you and me happier consumers AND the designers more aware and conscientious going forward.

Shameless Business Plug

2007-11-14T20:42:00.001-05:00

Warning, yes, I’m shameless. This post is a shameless plug for my new shapes business about to open. Does Second Life need another shaper? Hell, who knows, but I love creating shapes and I’m going to give it a go. If you’re interested, join the Slider Surgeons group and keep up with when we have our official grand opening. It’s going to be soon. And we’re going to have both male and female shapes ranging from emo to hugo… so, keep your eyes open for when the clinic opens. We’ll have our scalpels ready!

Pink Platform Shoes

2007-11-11T21:09:00.001-05:00

Some days things just seem to drop in your lap. Like today, there I am minding my own business, my partner and I quietly enjoying the surf sound from the front room of his beach house, when low and behold what do I see? That’s right... you guessed it... PINK PLATFORM SHOES hovering right outside the window. Now, normally I would just shake my head, admire my own good taste in shoes and mumble about all the good shoe designers now in Second Life while quietly going on about my business. But not today. This girl obviously needs help. I mean, she’s clearly wearing expensive skin, she can afford better! Perhaps she just doesn’t know. No... no that can’t be right. After further inspection, it’s evident she thinks this ensemble... and I use that term loosely, is stylish. These aren't just pink platform shoes but glaringly, BLINGY pink platform shoes. Now come on, everyone who’s anyone now knows ... bling is dead... it’s evil and it needs a stake through the heart. But not this girl. The offense gets worse. She goes on to complement this outfit with some pink "cling wrap" which enhances the knowledge that, yes, she does know how to use the breast size slider. And obviously she thought these puppies were best showed using her very expensive skin. But wait! There’s more! Check out the watch this girl is wearing... now... granted she is blonde, but a timepiece only needs to be so large. I could tell the time of day from the comfort of my chair inside my partner's house. Not only by the size of the dial ,but the luminescence of the bling incorporated with this piece of, dare I call it this, jewelry. Sigh... short skirt, pink cling wrap, blingy pink platform shoes and a watch that only the Jolly Green Giant should be seen in. This is what "fashion" is all about.

Truth

2007-11-02T11:24:00.000-04:00

Today I am reviewing the new hair by Truth. Three new styles for women and one for men. Now to hear my partner tell it, I have enough hair in my inventory to wig every person on the grid alive or dead, their pets, furries, strange aliens, cousin IT’s, dragons, Gor’s, Vampires, elf’s, fairies, neko's, and general oddities. Frankly I think he's exaggerating, but yes I do have an abundant amount of hair. Alright, abundant might be an understatement but lets get back to the subject at hand.

Being a member of the Truth group Truth Hawks kindly dropped on me and the rest of the group, freebies of two of his four new designs. First is Kensei for men, and Kensei 2 for women. It’s a short slightly messy, choppy design that’s great to wear with those high neck sweaters or scarf’s we all need this time of the year. His textures and color choices are very nice and plentiful imho, although previously I had overheard Antonia from Artilleri complaining that he had yet to make her an orange color. ;) I’m certain he’s getting right on that. Dropping what I was doing and rushing over to check out the other two designs, I found what probably is my favorite, a little updo called Lucy. Lucy comes with some messy spikes up top and lovely little flips in back, with nice short side swept bangs, it make a great combination to go with my new Truth Gypsy coat I just picked up as you can see in the pictures up top. Next is April, long in the back, upswept on the sides with some nice side sweeping bangs. It’s casual, comfortable and looks good with a number of outfit types. The men’s version of Kensei is just as cute as the women’s with a choppy cut, side swept flexi movement and frankly looks just as good on women as it does on men. At only $100L each, these cuts are a bargain folks and $1000 will get you the whole enchilada. Truth Hawks is doing some amazing work in my humble opinion and I can’t wait to see what he comes out with next. Although I do admit, I am still waiting on new skin… let’s go Truth, get with it. ;) Oh and honey, if you’re reading this… its number 293. Kisses!

You can visit Truth at: http://slurl.com/secondlife/Sweet%20Sorrow/106/121/26

Emporio Naima

2007-10-31T20:00:00.000-04:00

So I’m out on the grid haunting small shops, looking for something warm and fuzzy to wear and what do I happen upon... Emporio Naima. Ah... a delightful little shop, nothing to glitzy, nothing to bland. Just about right. The décor is tasteful, the shop is well laid out and they have a wonderful mixture of both men’s and women’s clothing. Rubbing my virtual hands together in glee because I do love a new store, I happen upon my first treasure. I hit upon is this wonderful piece known only as Woman’s Wool Sweater, Large Collar. But don’t let that deter you. It’s a fabulous piece of work with sculpted prim sleeve extensions kind of slouched like you would find in real life, and two sculpted prim pieces (you choose which one fits you) that make up a fantastic large cowl neck that fits beautifully. The detail on this work is just wonderful and one of my new favorite items of inventory. Now I wish I had gotten the fat pack... sigh. To go with it, I spot a cute pair of gold leather pants with lovely texture work, called Oro d’Autunno. This pair of pants comes complete with a cute little pink and gold camisole with a fantastic lace trim but that’s not all. The pants are fully equipped with a prim belt with excellent silver prim detailing and its flexi! The shop is filled with an eclectic number of pieces from shorts and dresses to men’s clothing that I’m sure any guy would love to be seen in. The prices run from reasonable to high but the quality is good. Hence you get what you pay for. I met Naiman Broome and his partner Pompeja Rossini and they are just as warm and friendly as you could ever hope. The store is new so you may not have heard about it yet, but mark my words I believe Emporio Naima will be one you will want to landmark for your favorites folder.

You can find Emporio Naima at Elexor Mat, Southern Paradise

(75, 24, 22)

Sweater: $200 Fatpack of 7 colors $1000
Pants with Cami: $450
Hair: Truth: Montegue-Auburn
Shoes: Armidi Gisaci - Vidalia Pump Metallic Glitz

Fall Fashion Revisited

2007-10-31T11:58:00.001-04:00

Now I realize I'm behind the times but it's never to late to revisit items that just scream fashion sense. I'm not only talking about the items themselves but also the cost. Free is our friend. And no one seems to do free better than PixelDolls. Check out these great jeans that I picked up for free! You get a bundle of colors, vests, jackets...everything the fashionable avi needs to step out and it costs you nada... zip... ZERO lindens. Excellent detail and fine for mixing and matching. I say run, don't walk to PixelDolls to pick up your free set today. My next great find I'm wearing is the Military jacket in mustard from MG Fashions. Its warm, its great for fall and easy to dress up with a nice scarf from the Peepul set at BareRose. Now who could live without boots for fall eh? No one in their right fashion mind. So I'm pairing today's outfit with Bloom boots from Maitreya in Olive and plan to head back soon for the rest of the colors... yes, I have kicked myself for not picking up the color packs, no need to remind me. Alright... today's mission is to find more fashion sense out there on the grid... anyone want to point me in the right direction?

Another Second Life Fashion Blog zzzzzzzzzz

2007-10-30T20:06:00.001-04:00

Yes folks, it's another Second Life Fashion Blog... I know... I know, you've been there, done that, got the cheesy t-shirt. But wait... there's more. If you subscribe now, not only will you learn that Pink Platform Shoes are NOT fashionable, but you'll also have the opportunity to check out new designs by my boss Kira Rosewood and shapes by moi. That's right, I know you're shaking your head in disbelief right now, but it's true. All that can be yours for the low low price of ZERO lindens... you heard me ZERO!! So hop on board the Blunt Fashion Sense train folks and get ready because I may be new to blogging... and okay granted the last person on the face of the planet to have a blog, but I'm going to tell you what's what in the Second Life Fashion scene as I see it. So dig out those pink platforms... toss them in your trash folder 'cuz here I come baby!

Blunt Fashion Sense

I AM Photo Contest! By Alexander Fine Jewelry

Scruplz 50,000L Winning Photograph!

Scruplz August 2010 Issue!

Only 5 days left for the Scruplz $50,000L Photo Contest

July 2010 Scruplz Issue and 50,000L Contest!

Show Us Your Sunshine 50,000L Competition Update

50,000L Photo Contest Details inside the June Issue of Scruplz!

PRESS RELEASE: Scruplz June Photography Competition

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Scruplz Publications May 2010 Issue is HERE!

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OPIUM Fashion Agency Oops!

Real Life Headlines

The Bucket List

The Draw

Models vs. Mannequins

If These Walls Could Talk - A Challenge to Tenshi Vielle

Skin Addicted

Public Apologies

Read All About It - photoLife Trial

Thank you!

Exclusive Studios

Away For The Holidays

Thanksgiving Memories

I Don't Care

Runway Kidz Model Auction CANCELLED

Oh Happy Day

I Am For Sale

Afflicted

Fashion Show Invitation

Behold

Beautiful Byte Island

Look of the Day

Torley Linden LIVE Voice Interview

She Didn't Tempt Adam with an Apple

The Word of the day begins with P

A Lethal Combination

EdDesigns- Edde Edman Lives

My Favorite Color

No Drama

Cylindrian takes a Byte

The Good, The Bad, The Ugly

Safari Anyone?

Shameless self promotion- Photos by Cherie

Simple Elegance

No I'm Not Dead

Oomp3 Hits the Market

Take a Byte

Grand Re-Opening of Preciosity of Style

12 New Makeups @ Damiani!

What I Aspire To Be

New Skin in Town

Two More

Shameless Self Promotion

I <3 LA

The Chronicals of NAIMA

Reasonable Desires- Desiring Women

Prima Di Elaganza Fashion Show Review

photoLIFE Model Search

Interview with a Mad Scientist

Vanity Universe 2008 Skin Fair

Damiani Skins Review and Lust

PRESS RELEASE-photoLIFE OM-10

LIFE is Good

Couture On A Budget-Review GG Couture

NAIMA- New Name New Location

Integrity- Do You Have It?

Tuli S5 I'm in Love!

The Hunt is On!

Vegas Baby!

Brenda Clellon goes Universal

Evening Star- Review

I Felt That

REVIEW: Reasonable Desires

High Stepping

Fusion Show Cancelled

Fashion Show Weekend!

A Stitch in Time

Revolution

Press Release

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