Until It Sleeps

It's truly amazing how relaxing I find Second Life photography.  In days past, it was source of frustration even though I did enjoy the adventure.  I hate that I am rarely able to find the time to sit down, put an outfit together, find the perfect location and then spend a few hours playing with the pictures.  If only we didn't have to have real life jobs!  Summer is almost here for me, however; I only have one more work day before my two month vacation.

The outfit I'm wearing today if from mon tissu.  Enough cannot be said about the quality of clothing from this designing team.  I really love the Bloomsbury Trousers; the textures are vivid and the mesh is shaped very well.  These pants remind me of capris I wear in my real life... Not so much because of the vividness but because of the length.  My legs are rather short; so, capris tend to strike me pretty low.  With the ultra-short everything in Second Life lately, these are refreshing!  The trousers are available in eight patterns, and a free demo is available.

The Oversized Shirt is also from mon tissu.  This shirt seriously looks so comfortable; I wish I really did own one!  It is the perfect addition to a wardrobe because it is casual enough to be worn with clothing you would lounge in but dressy enough to fit with... well, a nicely made pair of trousers!  The shirt is available in nine patterns, and a free demo is available.

I'm really not sure why I have put off the purchase of mesh feet for so long.  A reflection of being frugal in my real life, perhaps?  With the introduction of the Avatar Enhancement system from Slink, the mesh feet were well worth the price.  Why?  No longer having to spend very precious time trying to perfectly match skin tones is, honestly, priceless.  With Slink's new mesh feet, you simply have to purchase a Slink skin applier from the skin designer of your choice (provided availability of course) and click a button to get a perfect match every time.  It couldn't get any easier.  Also, if you want a new shoe, you do not have to purchase a whole foot with the shoe anymore; Slink has shoe add-ons and is also allowing other creators to design shoes to fit Slink mesh feet.

Slink has also created an add-on for nails.  Many designers are taking advantage of this; a simple search on the Second Life Marketplace will produce hundreds of nail appliers for your hands and feet at rather reasonable prices.  Although the initial price of purchase of the hands and feet is a bit up there, it is more than worth it especially if you are a Second Life photographer, blogger or model.

Irene is the latest skin from Izzie's, and just like all her others, it is a beauty!  The skin is offered in ten skin tones and includes a modifiable shape, freckles, moles, four brow colors (with the exception of the mocha and cocoa tones), cleavage, a nail base, twelve lipsticks, eleven eyeshadows, eyeliner and a brow shape.  A free demo is available.  Also, if you would like to try the skin at a cheaper price, three special edition skins are being offered at The Dressing Room Fusion through June 6th.

It is with very deep sadness that I have to tell you about the closing of aDORKable Poses.  If you have followed by blog very long at all, you will have noticed that I use a lot of poses from this designer and with good reason.  They are extremely well made!  Adorkable Peapod's real life is very hectic, and I understand the pressure of trying to keep up with both lives all too well.  I wish her nothing buy extreme happiness and success in everything she pursues.  Of course I do hold hope that one day she will design again in-world.  Through June 9th, you can grab everything at the main store location for up to 50% off per product.  There are a few events that Adorkable has already committed to that are coming up; so, you can also expect to see her posing products for a little while longer at special venues.

Credits

• Clothing: [Top] Oversized Shirt in Black by mon tissu and [Pants] Bloomsbury Trousers in Emerald O's by mon tissu
• Shoes: Ilena Sandals in Black by Slink
• Feet: Women's Natural Barefeet by Slink
• Hair: Teddy in Browns05Fade by TRUTH
• Skin: Irene Skin Pale DB by Izzie's New
• Skin Applier: Slink Hands Applier and Slink Feet Applier by Izzie's
• Makeup: [Eyes] Irene Eyeshadow Green and Smokey by Izzie's (Included with purchase of skin) and [Lips] Glossy Lip Highlights 3D by Izzie's
• Eyes: Ardent Eyes in Skyfall by IKON
• Lashes: 2011 Lashes Curl by LeLutka
• Hands: Mesh Hands Elegant1 M Left and Right by Slink
• Nail Applier: Slink Hands and Feet Classic Nails in Pastels by Izzie's
• Poses: [1] Ella 3m by aDORKable Poses Closing Sale
• Location: Missing Mile Dark Rural Community

Every Storm Runs Out of Rain

As the days draw closer to summer break, I can't help to almost feel a sense of relief.  I am so busy in real life; I need a break... badly!  I don't like feeling stressed and overwhelmed all the time.  Another sense of relief came Friday with the news that my husband was finally hired after fourteen months of being laid off.  It isn't the job he permanently wants to be in, but it is definitely a means to an end.  God has been so good to us, and I feel so extremely blessed.

The dress I'm wearing today is an exclusive design from (Elate!) available at Bees Through the Seasons.  If you have never visited this small event, just going to see the decor will be reward enough.  It is truly one of the cutest designs I have seen... and not to mention that the participating designers are extremely talented!  The Ivy Dress is available in four colors and includes five mesh sizes and the necklace in three sizes.  I love the simplicity of the design.  It's very classy and chic; the mesh is well made and the textures are well colored and shaded.  A free demo is available for your convenience.

Izzie's released her latest skin a little over a week ago, and as with all of her other skins... the value is astounding.  Holly is available in nine skin tones and includes a modifiable body shape, freckles, moles, four brow colors (excluding the mocha skin tone), cleavage options, a nail base, twelve lipstick colors, eleven eyeshadow colors, eyeliner and a brow shape.  And... just in case you haven't been on Second Life in the past few weeks... Izzie's also now offers a skin applier for Slink hands and feet.  Matching up the skin tones is literally as easy as clicking a button.  Nail appliers are also available.


Credits
Clothing: Ivy Dress in Charcoal by (Elate!) @ Bees Through the Seasons
Shoes: Millside Flats in Winter by [elikatira] 70% Off
Jewelry: Lola Leaves Earrings in Death by {cherry} @ The Attic
Hair: Conclusion in Brown 08 by [elikatira] 70% Off
Skin: Holly Skin Pale DB by Izzie's
Makeup: [Eyeshadow] Smokey by Izzie's (Included with purchase of Holly Skin) and [Lips] Glossy Lip Highlights 3D by Izzie's
Eyes: Ardent Eyes in Skyfall by IKON
Lashes: 2011 Lashes Curl by LeLutka
Hands: Mesh Hands Elegant by Slink
Skin Applier: Slink Avatar Enhancement Hands Applier by Izzie's
Nail Applier: Slink Avatar Enhancement Classic Nails Applier by Izzie's
Poses: [1] Lean II 5v2 and [2] My Hair 8 by aDORKable Poses
Location: PLAAKA

My SL Pet Peeves Meme

This past week I came across the Meme Challenge blog posts by Strawberry Singh and thought that it would be a fun way to get back into blogging on a regular basis.  Her latest theme is SL Pet Peeves; I try not to complain too much on my blog, but I suppose that we all do need a release every now and then.

1. Designers who do not offer demos or who charge for demos.  Nothing annoys me more as a shopper than designers who do not offer demos for mesh clothing, shoes, skin, hair or poses.  Since each of these items works very differently with the many different body shapes of the second life avatar, it is really important for me to be able to "try before I buy."  I hate wasting money even if it is only a few Lindens.  More annoying than no demo is a demo that I have to pay for.  To me, asking a customer to pay for a demo suggests that the designer doesn't have much confidence in his or her product and must make Lindens wherever they are able.  In each case, you are most likely not going to get my business.

2. Designers who do not put their store name in/on their vendor or in their profiles.  As many of you know, I have been blogging for the Second Life event and sales coverage blog SeraphimSL since it began in the summer of 2011.  It has been very surprising for me to see how many designers do not include the name of their store somewhere in or on their vendor or even in their profile.  Do you not want customers to be able to locate your store?  When it takes me five plus minutes to simply try and figure out what the name of your store is, I'm more than annoyed and would never search that long as a customer.  You're losing business!

3. The ever expanding unorganized mess that is my inventory.  No matter how good my intentions are, I can never seem to be able to completely organize my inventory.  It has expanded to the point that I have almost lost hope in it ever being under control again.  I seem to accumulate items much quicker than I sort them and put them in their place.  I did purchase the Visual Inventory Organizer Wardrobe a few months back and was doing really well with photoing and sorting, but like with all other plans... it kind of fell to the wayside.  The biggest thing that annoys me about not having an organized inventory is that I really have no idea what I have.  Over the past three and a half years I have easily spent hundreds of real life dollars on items in-world... perhaps even into the thousands.  It really bothers me that I cannot find items or even remember what is there.  I suppose I should start blogging weekly installments of my Pieces of My Closet series once again to motivate myself to sort through this mess.

4. Designers who add me to their subscribers without my permission.  The first time I got a notecard from a designer I didn't recognize, I thought that perhaps I had just forgotten about the store or they had rechristened themselves.  However, the more often that it happens, the more convinced I become that some designers actually are adding residents to their subscribers.  I completely understand that designers want to advertise themselves and get information out about new designs and sales, but I feel this method is a bit tacky and unprofessional.  Flickr is a great way to connect with people in Second Life and gain potential new customers; send me a contact request... I'll be more than happy to add you!

5. Grid lines and disappearing shadows in my photographs.  I thought all my photography woes had been solved when my husband and I were finally able to purchase a high functioning gaming computer.  I was finally able to see shadows, but I came to realize that there are so many glitches with the actual software that it is almost impossible to take a photo without some type of flaw... be it the ever dreaded grid lines or complete blocks of shadows missing from the picture.  I use the Firestorm viewer and have heard that grid lines are a thing of the past with the latest official Second Life viewer, but I have yet to try it for myself.  Perhaps I should put that on my list of things to do in the near future!

Credits

Clothing: Morning Tank in Solids (Texture Change) by DRIFT

Hair: Tymber w/Roots in Toast by TRUTH @ FaMESHed

Skin: Asia Skin Light DB by Izzie's

Eyes: Ardent Eyes in Pewter by IKON Group Gift

Lashes: 2011 Lashes Curl by LeLutka

Pose: sweet.sour pose 2 by fri.day @ Pose Fair 2013

Uninspired

I've been feeling so uninspired lately.  I have been wearing this same outfit for at least two to three weeks.  I remember when I used to feel the need to have a different outfit every day in-world.  It's not that I don't like the items that designers are putting out... I just haven't felt that into it.  I'm sure that it probably is due to a combination of more hours at real life work and never feeling like I'm really getting anywhere in life.  It's taxing on the spirit.  Hopefully with warmer weather (if it ever shows up) and more day light hours, my spirit will start picking back up and inspiration will once again be free flowing!

I really do love the shirt I'm wearing.  I picked it up at erratic during the store's 50% off moving sale.  Unfortunately, the sale is over, but based on the inventory available in the shop, you will probably see more of this designer featured on my blog in the future.  The styles are classy and very well made, and free demos are available for all mesh items.  The designer does have an in-world group that is completely free to join; members receive 30% off all new releases (when the group tag is activated) for a limited time after each release.

The skin I'm wearing was Izzie's contribution at Skin Fair 2013, which is also now over; the skin is, however, now available at the main store location.  This skin is a bit different from the designer's other skins since it is an Asian inspired skin.  New skin tones are available with this design; so, please try one of the free demos before you make a purchase.  The skin is available in six tones and includes a modifiable shape, four eyebrow colors (excluding dark tan and ginger tones), cleavage options, six lipstick tattoos, six eyeshadow tattoos and a brow shape.  Lola's Tango appliers are available as separate purchases for this skin.

I fell in love with the eyes by IKON when I first discovered them a few months ago.  The designer is participating in the current round of The Boutique by The Liaison Collaborative.  Twenty-seven colors of the newest Ardent design is available; each purchase includes five sizes.  I'm wearing the color titled Skyfall, but they are honestly all so gorgeous that this will probably not be my only purchase.  A special color of the Ardent Eyes has been placed out at the designer's main store for the in-world IKON VIP group members; the group is completely free to join, and a free pair of eyes is set out for group members only during the first week of each month.

One of my favorite events of the entire year is underway now through April 14th.  All the poses featured in this post are by the very talented aDORKable Poses, and they are only available at Pose Fair 2013.  I love this designer's poses because they are all extremely well made and mirrors of each pose are included in every pack.  aDORKable released six new pose packs as Pose Fair exclusives, and I am sure that these poses will be available in store upon the conclusion of the event.  If you are interested in seeing more poses that are available, check out my coverage of the fair at Seraphim!


Credits
Clothing: [Top] Amy Silk Blouse in Salmon by erratic and [Pants] Flare Jeans for Flats in #8 by Maitreya
Shoes: Millside Flats in Onyx by [elikatira] 70% Off
Jewelry: Amazon Necklace in Black by Bens Beauty
Hair: Sound in Brown 08 by [elikatira] 70% Off
Skin: Asia Skin Light DB by Izzie's
Makeup: [Eyeshadow] Asia Eyeshadow Smokey and Asia Eyeshadow Pink by Izzie's (Included with purchase of Asia Skin), [Eyeliner] Black Eyeliner in Gentle Fume by Acid & Mala and [Lips] Glossy Lip Highlights 3D by Izzie's
Eyes: Ardent Eyes in Skyfall MLby IKON @ The Boutique
Lashes: 2011 Lashes Curl by LeLutka
Hands: Mesh Hands Elegant R [1 and 2], Bag R [3] and Casual L by Slink
Poses: [1] Bam 1, [2] Simple 4 and [3] Simple 2m by aDORKable Poses @ Pose Fair 2013
Location: Pretty Island

Alone

I hope you have all had an amazing weekend.  This is the first time I have had a chance to make any photos for my blog in two weeks, and I must say that I have really missed it.  I have a lot of fun putting outfits together and finding the perfect spot to take a snapshot.  My husband and I spent the weekend at my mother's house last week, and unfortunately I cannot pack up my desktop and take it with me for photos.  Spending some time away from the computer is definitely nice, but I always end up missing Second Life no matter how long I've been away.  It's kind of like home... You enjoy going on vacation every now and then, but you always want to go home eventually!

I'm honestly not sure how new the top I'm wearing from Ducknipple is.  I spotted it while checking out the designer's new releases and really liked it.  If you have never visited this store, you may want to pencil it into your schedule sometime in the near future.  Almost all mesh items include a color change HUD; it's like purchasing a fatpack for the price of one regular item.  The Leather Jacket w/Top that I'm wearing includes twelve color options for the jacket and twelve color options for the top; this gives you a total of one hundred and forty-four possible color combinations.  A free demo is available.

I picked the jeans that I'm wearing up from Cracked Mirror at FaMESHed.  I really love the shape of these pants and the fact that there isn't a huge gap in the crotch which seems to be a fashion epidemic lately.  I've never had that problem with this designer, however.  The Disclaimer Skinny Jeans are available in five colors and include five mesh sizes and a modifiable alpha layer.  It's rare for me to find jeans that I really like in Second Life; so, when I do... I stock up.  The texture on these jeans is fabulous; it contains enough realism to be credible with enough artistry to properly fit in world.  Although my tush isn't photoed, the butt of jeans really makes it or breaks it for me.  The pockets have to look good and the shape (with mesh) has to be nice and round.  These jeans score on all points!  If you want to try them out for yourself, a free demo is available.

I have to admit that I haven't always been the biggest fan of hair by Exile.  His styles have always been pretty, but I thought the tips of the hair were way too pointy.  That problem, however, seems to be a thing of the past.  I spotted his new releases this weekend and instantly fell in love with Crazy in Love.  This hairstyle is so dramatic!  The volume is fantastic, the textures are beautiful and best of all... there are no pointy tips!  The hair is available in thirteen color packs, and a free demo is available.

A new skin was recently released by Izzie's titled Harlow.  I love the soft but classy and chic look of this skin.  Harlow is available in eight skin tones and includes a modifiable body shape, freckles options, moles options, four brow colors (excluding the mocha skin tone), cleavage options, a nail base, twelve lipstick colors, twelve eyeshadow colors and a brow shape.  I particularly like the eyeshadows included with this skin; they are very shiny and shimmery.  A free demo is available.


Credits
Clothing: [Top] Leather Jacket w/Top by Ducknipple and [Pants] Disclaimer Skinny Jeans in Faded Light by Cracked Mirror @ FaMESHed
Shoes: Millside Flats in Taupe by [elikatira]
Jewelry: Lena Earrings by Donna Flora No longer available.
Hair: Crazy in Love in Drift by Exile
Skin: Harlow Skin Pale DB by Izzie's
Makeup: [Eyeshadow] Harlow Eyeshadow Silver Teal by Izzie's (Included with purchase of Harlow Skin), [Lips] Glossy Lip Highlights 3D by Izzie's and [Eyeliner] Black Eyeliner in Gentle Fume by Acid & Mala
Eyes: Lucid Eyes in Optimism by IKON
Lashes: 2011 Lashes Curl by LeLutka
Hands: Mesh Hands Elegant R And Relax L by Slink
Poses: [1] Honey 2 and [2] Legs 7m by aDORKable Poses
Location: Hazardous

A Lesson in Patience

Today has definitely been a lesson in patience.  I typically take my pictures in Second Life on my desktop and edit them on my laptop; I do it this way since my desktop, which is a gaming computer, is a lot faster and can take better pictures while my laptop is the only computer I have that has PhotoShop.  I have known that my laptop was having issues for a while, but today it finally just gave out.  Well, not completely out, but I tried to turn it on for three hours very unsuccessfully.  After a bit of research, I think the CMOS battery has went out on my laptop; it is a pretty common problem with the version I have and is a really cheap fix.  The problem... you basically have to dismantle the entire computer just to replace the battery.  I cannot see myself doing that.

I was left trying to figure out how to use GIMP to edit my photos.  There are some aspects of it that I do like better than PhotoShop; for example, I think the healing tool has clearer results and is easier to use in GIMP.  The IWarp tool is not quite as smooth at the liquify feature in PhotoShop, however.  I'm sure that with practice I will be able to use this program as well as I am able to use PhotoShop (which isn't really saying much).  The extra time to look up tutorials really pushed my nerves.  You would have to have the patience of Job to not be irritated by having to take it all in at once.

Now... on to what I'm wearing!  The top I have on is a new item from Auxiliary available at The Dressing Room Fusion.  The design is extremely adorable, and the three colors it comes is are very pretty.  A free demo is available for you to try; it really annoys me when designers don't have demos out for mesh items.  Each piece fits differently... some not well at all depending on your shape; I really hate wasting money and really appreciate the designers who offer free demos (1L demos are a whole different rant lol).  The straps don't really fit my avatar well (they stand up a bit higher than my shoulders), but I knew that I wanted to wear a long hairstyle; so, that really wasn't much of an issue.  Overall, it's a very fabulous piece for only 70L!

The leggings I "matched" up with the top are actually a modifiable pair of textured white leggings a designer friend of mine passed me long ago.  They are a staple of my inventory when I cannot find pants that match well enough with a top.  Perhaps Auxiliary will release some colored pants in the future to match for the people who don't like tinting!

The newest release from LaRoo Shoes are absolutely amazing!  The Sparta Pumps are the first release by the design team to include a foot base.  I know that some people are a little intimidated when it comes to tinting.  I typically don't aim for a "perfect" match because if I did I would be here for days. Close is normally good enough for me since colors can change with windlights and shadows; I think I did pretty well with my first try.  Tinting the skin with the included HUD is a little different than with others; you first choose the skin closest to your skin color and then adjust the RGB values instead of simply inputting the value of your skin.  I really love the window that pops up for you to enter the codes instead of having thirty seconds to type them into local chat.  LaRoo does offer detailed information on how to operate the color change HUD and the RGB values of well know skin designers on their website.  The values for the skin I'm wearing were not listed, but I'm sure the list will grow with time!  The shoes are available in twelve colors, and a free demo is available for your convenience.

Speaking of skins, I'm sporting the newest skin release from Izzie's titled Ginerva.  The skin is available in eight tones and includes a modifiable shape, freckles option, moles option, four brow colors (with the exception of the mocha tone which only contains one), cleavage options, a nail base, twelve lipsticks, eleven eyeshadows, eyeliner, blush and a brow shape.  As with all Izzie's skins, a free demo is available.


Credits
Clothing: [Top] Mullet Top in Cocoa and Turquoise by Auxiliary at The Dressing Room Fusion and [Leggings] White Cotton Leggings by Siss Boom (Not available)
Shoes: Sparta Pumps in Tan by LaRoo Shoes
Jewelry: Uva Necklace by miel Group Gift
Hair: Rebel in Mocha w/Roots by TRUTH
Skin: Ginvera Skin Pale DB by Izzie's
Makeup: Black Eyeliner in Gentle Fume by Acid & Mala
Eyes: Eternal Eyes in Glass by IKON
Lashes: 2011 Lashes Curl by LeLutka
Hands: Mesh Hands Elegant 1 by Slink
Poses: [1] Elegant 3 and [2] Elegant 1 by aDORKable Poses
Location: Innsmouth

Obscure

I hope everyone has had a great couple of weeks since the last time I posted.  A combination of a large amount of real life work to complete and a new found addiction to Pretty Little Liars has kept me away, but I should be back on a regular basis now.  I really need to stop finding new shows to watch on Netflix... especially when they have 2+ seasons available for you to watch.  I get so sucked in and then just have to keep watching episode after episode.  Lol  I suppose I could have worse addictions.

I came across the oversized sweatshirt I'm wearing when I was covering FROST for Seraphim.  I have to admit that I have always been a bit turned off by the store name Cynful since it doesn't really sound very conservative at all.  I shouldn't judge a book by its cover, right?  After checking out the designer's profile, I think the name of the store may actually be a play off of her name, Cynthia Ultsch.  Curiosity lead me to check out the main store location, and I actually do like quite a few of the designs available.  Perhaps you will be seeing more from this store on my blog in the future.  The oversized sweatshirt is available in six colors and includes five mesh sizes and an alpha layer; a free demo is available for your convenience.

Izzie's is participating in this month's round of Collabor88 with an exclusive version of Geanna available in two skin tones, fair and pale.  Each skin includes four brow colors, a nail base and a brow shape.  A free demo is available for you to try; you may also want to snag the exclusive nails by Izzie's while you are there which include nine colors and three sizes.     

A new jewelry set was recently released by je suis titled Chouette.  Eleven strap colors are available for both the necklace and the earrings.  The pearls and metal pieces are both color change; ten colors are included for the pearls and five colors are included for the metal pieces.  The jewelry is resizable by script.  While you are at je suis, check out the We Are Back! section; a lot of previous event exclusives have been placed out for a limited time.  Grab them while you still can!

LaRoo Shoes officially opened their main store location about a week and a half ago with two new releases.  All designs by the two founders of the brand are completely original mesh creations.  The Arsene Boots are available in twelve colors and come with twelve strap colors and four heel colors changeable via a HUD.  The boots are extremely well made; the mesh is very smooth and the straps give a little extra dimension to the look of the shoe.  I honestly love how mesh boots bend with my avatar's legs.  I used to avoid boots when we had to rely on prims and sculpts because boots that contained two or more pieces per shoe could end up looking extremely odd when walking or posing.  That is something that we thankfully don't have to deal with anymore since mesh has come along.  A free demo is available for your convenience.


Credits
Clothing: [Top] Oversized Sweatshirt in Snow by [Cynful] @ FROST and [Leggings] Sheer Tights Colors in Pink by Izzie's
Shoes: Arsene in Black by LaRoo Shoes
Jewelry: [Necklace] Chouette Necklace in Gray and [Earrings] Chouette Earrings in Gray by je suis
Hair: Indulge in Brown 03 by [elikatira]
Skin: Geanna Frostbite Skin Pale DB by Izzie's @ Collabor88
Makeup: Black Eyeliner Gentle Fume by Acid & Mala
Eyes: Eternal Eyes in Storm by IKON
Lashes: 2011 Curl Lashes by LeLutka
Hands: Mesh Hands Relax by Slink
Poses: [1] Model 219, [2] Model 228 and [3] Model 254 by Glitterati
Location: Pretty Island

Gacha

I definitely have a shopping problem when it comes to gachas... Especially with all the cute new items that are available at The Arcade which opened a new round yesterday.  I keep thinking... "Oh, that's not that much money," and end up spending a ton before I realize how much that little bit of money has added up.  They are really fun, though, and you can get a lot of cute stuff that makes great stocking stuffers.

The best feeling at gacha events is getting the product that you wanted on your very first try.  You feel like you have completed some magnificent feat.  Well, that's how I felt when I landed the slate color of Tulip's cute mesh sweater anyway.  Nine colors of the shirt are available at 50L per play; be sure to try on the free demo before you buy since you have to choose the size of your shirt to play.

I've never really been much of a 'big bows on your head' type of girl, but the mesh bow from Auxiliary at The Arcade was absolutely too adorable for me to pass up.  There are ten total colors of the bow with studded and unstudded versions available at 50L per play; the studded bows are a 'rare' item which means you have less of a chance to score one than the unstudded bows.  

Bright lemon yellow pants are definitely not my usual style, but I think they just go with this outfit.  When I was searching for flat shoes last weekend I ran across these pants from Cracked Mirror and knew that I wanted to blog them.  Although you cannot see it my pictures, the pants have a really cute white belt attached.  They are definitely a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down.  I got the gray pair first, but they just didn't do it for me with the color of the shirt; so, I decided to spice it up a bit and go with a color I would typically find outlandish.  Your purchase includes five mesh sizes and an alpha layer; a free demo is available for your convenience.

Are the phone poses not adorable?  I wouldn't really expect anything else from aDORKable Poses, though!  The With Love Hunt started last Friday, and the Call Me set is aDORKable's prize for the event.  The collection includes ten poses with mirror poses and the cell phone prop for each pose.  Items in the hunt cost a mere 10L each but are worth at least 400L each; you definitely can't beat ten poses with props for such a low price!  While you are at aDORKable Poses, be sure to get the free pose the designer has set out for Christmas; a total of twenty-five poses will be given away, but only one pose per day is available.  So, you have to come back every day!

My husband suggested that I take a picture of what the photo would have looked like if the phone had actually taken the picture.  I have to admit, it was a cute idea, and I liked the way it turned out!


Credits
Clothing: [Top] Baggy Sweatshirt in Slate by tulip. @ The Arcade and [Pants] Mambo Jeans in Yellow by Cracked Mirror
Accessory: Slouchy Leather Bow Studded in Brick by Auxiliary @ The Arcade
Shoes: Ruffled Flats in Ruby Red by Cracked Mirror
Hair: Reema by Alice Project
Skin: Geanna Skin Pale DB by Izzie's
Makeup: [Eyeshadow] Geanna Eyeshadow Teal by Izzie's (Included with purchase of Geanna Skin) and [Eyeliner] Black Eyeliner Gentle Fume by Acid & Mala
Eyes: Eternal Eyes in Storm by IKON
Lashes: 2011 Lashes Curl by LeLutka
Hands: Mesh Hands Casual by Slink
Poses: [1] Call Me 1 and [2] & [3] Call Me 4 by aDORKable Poses With Love Hunt 10L
Location: Virtue

Pieces of My Closet IX

My outfit this week is completely inspired by Black Friday shopping.  I don't participate in real life (I tried that once, and it didn't work out so well.), but I know there will be lots of sales in Second Life as well; so, of course Seraphim is covering it!  We wanted to do a group shot to head the coverage page, but I didn't really want to go out and buy a new outfit.  So... I decided to pair it up with my Pieces of My Closet post!

When I think of all day shopping, the first thought that comes to mind is to wear something that is comfortable but still cute.  I had completely forgotten about purchasing this top from Maitreya.  I'm almost positive that I bought it for a 52 Weeks of Color post, but the color wasn't close enough to what I was looking for.  So, like everything else, it got lost in my inventory.  The sweater is available in twelve colors and includes four sizes and an alpha layer; a free demo is available for your convenience.

I know that I said absolutely no new purchases for my inventory cleaning posts, but since I actually bought this stunning hair by Alice Project for the Seraphim photo... that lets me off the hook for wearing it for this post as well... Right?  Thought so!  I first remember coming across this designer when I was covering Hair Fair this past summer.  I thought it was odd that the hair comes in a base color and you have to change the color via HUD, but the more I think about it, the more genius I realize it is.  Since these posts are all about reducing the number of items in my inventory, one hair with a HUD instead of multiple items for all the different colors really helps to get my inventory smaller!  Your purchase comes with a mini dye HUD that includes ten natural colors and twenty more 'colorful' colors; you also have options to tint the ends of the hair with dark, light or white.  If those aren't enough colors for you, Alice Project also has other dye HUDs available for purchase!  Demos are free; so, I definitely recommend checking these out.


Credits:
Clothing: [Top] Athena Sweater in Black by Maitreya and [Pants] Leggings in Pearl by Maitreya
Jewelry: Jackie Nekclace by LaGyo
Hair: Yuri by Alice Project @ Around the World
Skin: Geanna Skin Pale DB by Izzie's
Makeup: [Eyeshadow] Geanna Eyeshadow Silver and [Lips] Lipstick Dark Red by Izzie's (Included with purchase of Geanna Skin); [Eyeliner] Black Eyeliner Gentle Fume by Acid & Mala
Eyes: Eternal Eyes in Storm by IKON
Lashes: 2011 Lashes Curl by LeLutka
Pose: Elegant 2 by aDORKable Poses 50% Off Sale
Location: Mayfair

Unhinged

I know there has been a lot of controversy over events (especially charity events) lately, but I personally love them!  I like the convenience of having many designers set up items in one location, I like the interaction with people I meet at events, and most of all... I really love how Second Life residents come together to help people in need.  I don't think that anyone could deny the compassion and willingness to give of Second Life residents.  Unhinged is a charity event from Elysium Hynes and Sonya Marmurek for a friend (Eku Zhong) who has suffered many medical problems including multiple sclerosis, cancer, radiation treatments, and bone replacements and marrow transplants.  Repeated treatments has left Eku's skull very fragile, and she now needs a prosthesis to reduce (or eliminate) the possibility of her temporal bone being pushed into her brain.  Unhinged will be running through December 15th; so, there is plenty of time left for you to purchase products to help raise money for the prosthesis or jump over to attend one of the music events and donate to the cause.

The shirt I am wearing is one of the designs being offered by Geometry to help raise money for Eku.  Your purchase includes two shirt styles, five sizes of each style and two alpha layers.  The top is offered in nine colors, and a free demo is available for your convenience.

If you have been wanting to try the adorable poses I use so often in my photos, now is the perfect time! Through December 1st, all singles, couples, groups and props have been discounted by 50%; this sale does not include items located in the discount room and collaboration poses. After teleporting to the SIM, you will need to use the teleport board to get to the aDORKable Poses shop (or just follow the red arrow).


Credits
Clothing: [Top] Eku Tank in Pink by Geometry @ Unhinged and [Pants] Leggings in Black by Maitreya
Shoes: Flower Flats in Black by Izzie's
Hair: Interrupt in Black 04 by [elikatira]
Skin: Geanna Skin Pale DB by Izzie's
Makeup: [Eyeshadow] Geanna Eyeshadow Silver and [Lips] Lipstick Pink by Izzie's (Included with purcahse of Geanna Skin); [Eyeliner] Black Eyeliner Gentle Fume by Acid & Mala
Eyes: Eternal Eyes in Storm by IKON
Hands: Mesh Rigged Hands in Elegant and Elegant 1 by Slink
Poses: [1] Bag Lady II 3 and [2] Breezy 2m by aDORKable Poses 50% Off Sale
Location: Black Kite

Textures

I got a bit braver this weekend playing with PhotoShop... I decided to work with textures!  I've seen a lot of other people do it with their photos and wanted to try it myself, but as I have stated many times, PhotoShop makes me nervous.  I would love to take at least one formal course dedicated specifically to the software, but for now, I will just have to keep working with YouTube tutorials.  Adding the texture to the photo was a lot easier than what I thought it was going to be; the difficult part was finding one that I liked.

As soon as I saw the new mesh top, titled Sanya Draped, from Zaara at FaMESHed, I knew I had to have it!  The flow of the shirt is absolutely stunning and the texture is so beautiful.  The top is available in twelve colors which can be purchased individually, in packs of 'gold' or 'silver' or as a fatpack.  Five sizes and two alpha layers are included, and a free demo is available.

I purchased my first pair of Maitreya mesh jeans to go with this outfit, and I must say that I am deeply in love!  They are a bit expensive for a pair of jeans (coming in at 420L per pair), but I don't regret spending the extra lindens on them because they are well worth it.  The shape is absolutely beautiful and the texture is amazing.  Even though you cannot see it in either of my pictures, my hinny looks amazing!  Your purchase includes twelve sizes and an alpha layer; you can purchase the jeans individually or in a fatpack for 1750L which is an excellent price for all eight colors (you save 1610L total). A free demo is available.

I'll be the first to admit that when it comes to accessorizing, I tend to stick with a necklace and some earrings.  I've never really bothered with nails before because I'm a little OCD when it comes to fitting them.  The nails from Izzie's are absolutely fool proof; simply size your hand to 5, 10, 15 or 20 and attach the appropriate nail size.  Don't panic if it doesn't look like they fit correctly when you are on your pose stand; as soon as you hop off, everything lines up just right.  The Metal Stripe nails are just one of three sets released by Izzie's this weekend.  This set includes thirty-four colors which are changeable via a HUD, scripted and unscripted versions, four sizes and thirteen modifiable nail bases on the gloves layer.  The nail bases work perfectly with Izzie's skins... I really love that convenience!  I loved how well the color of these nails matched up with the top from Zaara; I actually had a difficult time finding a pose to show the nails off because the pink portion of the nails was blending so well with the top.  These are a definite must have for any wardrobe!


Credits
Clothing: [Top] Sanya Draped in Fuschia by Zaara @ FaMESHed and [Pants] Flair Jeans in #8 by Maitreya
Jewelry: Alice Earrings by LaGyo
Shoes: Mesh Sequined Heels by DECO (Fifty Linden Friday)
Hair: Control in Black 04 by [elikatira]
Skin: *Fuyu Skin Pale DB by Izzie's
Makeup: [Eyes] *Fuyu Eyeshadow SilverPink and [Lips] *Lipstick Rasberry by Izzie's (Included with Fuyu Skin purchase)
Nails: *Metal Strip Nails by Izzie's
Poses: [1] *Breezy 5m and [2] *Pencil 10m by aDORKable Poses
Location: Petit Pas

* Denotes promotional copy.

She's Got the Look

My husband is away on a trip with his dad this weekend which left me with a little extra time to play around with some photography effects I had been wanting to try.  I have always loved photos that incorporated the depth of field feature.  Unfortunately, my experiment was full of frustration and left me confused as to what I was doing wrong.  My viewer camera would capture in-world DoF when I took small snapshots, but the effect was completely lost when I switched to high resolution snapshots.  I took my frustration to Plurk where the lovely Harlow Heslop shared that this was very common.  On one hand, the information was a relief since I really hadn't been doing anything wrong with the viewer, but on the other hand, it stressed me a little to think that I would have to use PhotoShop to really get the effect that I wanted.  I panic a little every time I think about learning something new with PhotoShop... I'm not exactly good at it.  I ended up finding a very easy tutorial on how to create a depth of fiend effect in PhotoShop, and trust me... If I think it is easy, anyone can do it!

coldLogic released several new designs this past week, including the adorable skirt I'm wearing.  I have been in love with this brand's designs since their opening this past January.  They have a very classy casual look, and to be such high quality items, you can purchase them for an extremely reasonable price.  The Gemma skirt is available in four colors and includes standard sizes; the same skirt design is also offered under two other names (Glass and Giles) in four colors each.  The Matta shirt was released in early September and is also available in four colors with standard sizes included. All demos are free at coldLogic.

This entire look was inspired by such a simple item... The new tights from Izzie's!  Two packs of fifteen colors each were released this past week with one pack containing colors and the other pack containing the basics.  The tights come on the underpants and socks layers; they are modifiable which really allows you to make them your own and fit any look you are going for.

aDORKable Poses is participating in this month's round of My Second Box.  If you aren't familiar with this 'event,' each month you join the in-world group at a cost of 300L per month.  A selection of designers will send out samples of products via the group starting on the 15th of each month.  You have until the 25th to snag the items from the group's notices section; on the 26th of each month, everyone is ejected from the group and new enrollment will begin on the first of the next month.  If you would like to check out the featured designers and products before joining, check out the My Second Box website and Flickr.


Credits:
Clothing: [Top] Matta in White by coldLogic, [Skirt] Gemma in Charcola by coldLogic, [Undershirt] Intrinsic Top in Red Delicious by JANE (free) and [Stockings] *Sheer Tights in Cherry by Izzie's
Jewelry: Jackie by LaGyo @ The Dressing Room
Shoes: Amina Mesh Platform Booties in Black by Baiastice
Hair: Spark in Brown 08 by [elikatira]
Skin: *Fuyu Skin Pale DB by Izzie's
Makeup: [Eyeshadow] *Fuyu Eyeshadow Silver and [Lips] *Lipstick Cherry by Izzie's
Poses: [1] *Attitude 2m by aDORKable Poses @ My Second Box and [2] *Honey 1 by aDORKable Poses
Location: Izzie's

* Denotes promotional copy.

In the Spotlight

I think I may have overdone it just a tad with the number of pictures I have for my post this weekend, but I honestly couldn't help myself.  I finally figured out how to use a 'homemade' projector to create shadows in Second Life.  Two things I learned from the experience: (1) This technique can add a lot of drama to the picture, and (2) shadows produced on the body can be a little much.  I still need a lot of practice using this photography style, but I love learning and improving what I can do with photos. I would really love to learn how to do more Photoshop techniques... The really dramatic photos almost always seem to be heavily Photoshopped.

Cinema opened this weekend, and I must say that I am extremely impressed with the build.  The entire venue is mesh; the design is absolutely beautiful and the textures are so much fun.  When you go, be sure to turn the music on; it really adds to the experience.

The outfit I'm wearing is one of the creations available from Volstead at Cinema.  Before the event, I had never heard of this designer, but I immediately fell in love with all the products available in her booth.  Unfortunately, she does not have a shop in world to visit, but there are a few items on the Marketplace to check out.  It was very difficult to choose which dress I wanted to showcase and then even more difficult to choose what color I wanted to purchase.  Each color comes with two colors of lace.  I decided on the short and sexy yet conservative design that could be lingerie or simply a very sexy dress for a night out with a special someone.  The mesh fits me perfectly and moves so beautifully with my ava.  The textures are stunning and add so much depth to the design.  Five sizes are included with the purchase, but there is no alpha layer included; instead, the texture of the dress has been put on clothing layers to wear under the dress.  A free demo is available.

Izzie's released a new skin this past week titled Fuyu.  The thing I love the most about this new set is the eyeshadow!  I'm absolutely in love with the shimmer on the different colors; it looks very much like something I would wear in my real life.  The skin is available in eight tones and includes a modifiable shape, optional freckles, four brow colors, optional cleavage, a nail base, twelve lipsticks, twelve eyeshadows, eyeliner, blush and an eyebrow shape.  Each tone is priced at 1170L (with the exception of Mocha and Cocoa since these contain only one brow option), and a free demo is available.

All poses in this post are brand new from aDORKable Poses and are available at Cinema.  Four packs were released containing five poses each plus mirror poses.  Two couple poses are also available at Cinema.  I really need to log my husband's avatar in, give him a makeover and take some sappy couple pictures with him.  We celebrated our first anniversary this past week in real life, and I couldn't feel more blessed to have such an amazing person in my life.


Credits
Clothing: Liaison in Blush by Volstead @ Cinema
Jewelry: Timeless Pearl Earrings in Black Pearl by EarthStones
Stockings: Lace Pantyhose in Black A by Attitudes
Shoes: *Ute Mesh Pumps in Black by Baiastice
Hair: Morning in Black 04 by [elikatira]
Skin: *Fuyu Skin Pale DB by Izzie's
Makeup: *Fuyu Eyeshadow PinkBlue by Izzie's
Poses: [1] *Frontier 2 Mirror, [2] *Flux 2 Mirror, [3] *Element 2 and, [4] *Odyssey 1 by aDORKable Poses @ Cinema
Location: The Pixel Bean Coffeehouse

* Denotes promotional copy.

A Brisk Fall Day

I have always loved watching the leaves change colors each fall... Even if it means the trees will soon be bare for a good five months.  I have never been fond of the extremely hot temperatures that summer brings or the extremely cold temperatures that winter brings; spring and fall hold the wonderful in-between temperatures that I long for most of the year.

I have always preferred fall and winter fashion over spring or summer.  I love coats and sweaters and layers upon layers of warmth!  I'm very excited to see what designers put out this season; the quality of mesh has improved so much over the past year, and I am sure those newly found skills will shine through in their new releases.  I think I have a bit of an obsession with coats in my real life and my second life, but before mesh, I didn't purchase a lot of outerwear in world because the prims and sculpts simply did not look realistic.  Posing for photos with those primitive designs was a nightmare; mesh has most definitely made photography a lot easier.

The coat I'm wearing for this photo is NYU's contribution to the October collection of FaMESHed.  I love the high collar and the large buttons and buckle.  The texture is also amazing and adds a lot of depth and character to the piece.  The coat is available in nine wool colors, three leather colors and includes five sizes and an alpha layer.  As beautiful as the coat is, I do have to say that I would have loved it a little more if the backside had been a bit curvier; a flat behind is something I have never been accused of having... and I like it!

I know that I am a little late on the Maitreya mesh boots train, but when I saw the jacket, these boots were the only thing that I thought of to put with it!  Shoes are something I have never allowed myself to indulge in since good quality comes at a rather high price in world... and in real life to be honest.  I think I may allow myself to splurge a little more often than I have in the past to build up a nice variety for my inventory.  I have so many clothes... I'm sure I could spend a little less there to get a little more elsewhere.  The boots are available in twenty-five colors; if you would like to grab more than one color, it is more affordable to purchase a pack of three (1250L) than it is to purchase colors separately (750L each).  Of course the downfall to that strategy is that you cannot choose the three colors in a three pair pack.  Maitreya has also set out a pair of these boots in a tan color for only 225L for VIP members; the group is surprisingly absolutely free to join.

The perfect mesh accessory for this outfit came with LaGyo's addition to the latest release at The Dressing Room.  Titiana is a color change piece with three main colors and three metal colors.  I absolutely love texture change jewelry since it allows you to have so much variety for your money.


Credits
Clothing: Trench Coat in Wool Scarlet by NYU @ FaMESHed
Shoes: Radical Boots in Suede Coal by Maitreya
Jewelry: Titiana by LaGyo @ The Dressing Room
Hair: Control in Brown 08 by [elikatira]
Skin: *May Blackbird 2 in Sunset Light by Curio (Currently not available)
Poses: [1] *Go-Go 4 and [2] *Golightly 5 by aDORKable Poses
Location: Water Reserve

* Denotes promotional copy.

A Fair Trade

This past week has definitely been long and crazy.  Six days of working and one day off can be tiring to say the least.  With things as they are, however, I'm simply thankful to still have a job!  I hope all of you had a great week and will have an even better one in the week to come.

In my previous post, I mentioned changing the aim of my blog from one that simply publishes what I find stylish to one that publishes stylish items found at bargain prices.  While I do love finding amazing deals in real life and Second Life, I don't think that it is fair to the designer to simply purchase items that are free or very cheap.  Owning a store in Second Life is not free; tier fees and uploading designs costs designers money.  Also, the amount of time it takes to create original (and even template) items deserves to be compensated.  With that being said, I'm not limiting my blog to only free items or bargain items... I will be posting a mixture of full priced, bargains and gifts just as I always have.

The outfit I am wearing is made up mostly of bargain items and free gifts since I put this look together last weekend but didn't get a chance to post it until this weekend.  The dress I'm wearing is the VIP Group Gift at FaMESHed from Valentina E. Couture.  I honestly had never heard of this designer before checking out the September collection of FaMESHed, but after wearing this dress I am very much inclined to visit the main store location.  I have always loved gifts for the sole purpose of sampling the quality of the designs being offered by the vendor.  The mesh dress features a zebra pattern and a translucent overlay that softens the look of the outfit.  Joining the VIP group is absolutely free.  The FaMESHed venue is currently closed so that designers can switch out items for the new round starting tomorrow, October 1st.  However, it is very easy to use your cam controls to zoom into the building and snag the group gift just in case it disappears before tomorrow (I'm not sure how long gifts are available).

I know that it is really difficult... if not impossible... to see the earrings I am wearing.  For some reason, I never think about posing for the tiny things until I've taken my photos, done small edits (cropping, liquify, etc.) and am writing my post.  I picked up these cuties at a new event from CHIC Management called FAIR which encourages designers to set high quality items at fair prices instead of only at discounted prices.  I couldn't agree more with the goal of the new monthly event, but I must admit that I was a tad surprised and a bit curious to find a free gift at the event from the new store Stargazer.  Not that I mind free gifts (obviously)... I was just not expecting that at this event.  If you visit the main store location, you can find another free pair of earrings!  While you are there, join the VIP group which is free to join until October 1st.

I was so disappointed to have missed the annual [elikatira] sale last year; I was away getting married at the time and didn't get internet for almost two months after moving.  After being offline the past two or so months, I thought to check the notices in the VIP group and was ecstatic to see that the sale is now going on and I hadn't missed it a second year in a row!  If you haven't heard, [elikatira] has marked down every item in her store by 70% through October 1st (everything seems to be ending/beginning on that date!).  I know that I am giving you a very late heads-up about the sale, but you still have a chance to teleport in and snag hair and shoes at extremely cheap prices.  I have personally loved her designs for many years (even back to the ETD days) because of their classy, elegant styles.  I do believe that I just picked up every mesh style that I had missed from her while I was MIA and even some of her older sculpted hair.  If you have never tried an [elikatira] hair, right now is the perfect time!

I mentioned the new skin from Izzie's in my last post, but unfortunately the windlight I was using wasn't very good for showing off skin.  I wanted to give you a better, up close look at the skin in this post.  Faith is available in ten skin tones at just a shade over 1000L each.  With all that is included with these skins (check out my last post) and the quality with which they have been created, it would be very difficult to find a similar skin at a better price.

Poses have been one of my passions in Second Life for years... even before I started blogging.
Although I love poses and have collected so many, I still have only a handful of favorite pose designers... actually probably less than a handful.  aDORKable Poses is one brand that I always know I will be getting unique, quality and versatile poses with.  If you are just starting your own blog or if you are a veteran in the 'business', I highly recommend this designer.  Other than uniqueness, versatility and quality, I love the fact that all aDORKable sets come with mirror poses!  This feature has come in handy many, many times while photoing.  The two poses I used for the above photos are part of the Elegant set currently at Zodiac and can be purchased at the venue through October 17th.  


Credits
Clothing: Long Summer Dress Black Zebra by Valentina E. Couture @ FaMESHed (VIP Group Gift)
Jewelry: [Earrings] Dream Catcher by Stargazer @ FAIR (Free Gift)
Hair: Return in Brown 08 by [elikatira]
Skin: *Faith Skin Pale DB by Izzie's
Makeup: [Eyeshadow] *Faith Eyeshadow Smokey and Faith *Eyeshadow Smokey 2 by Izzie's [Lips] *Lipstick Cherry by Izzie's
Pose: [1] *Elegant 4 and [2] *Elegant 3 Mirror by aDORKable Poses @ Zodiac
Location: Pretty Island

* Denotes promotional copy.

Pieces of My Closet IV

While sorting through my inventory last night, I came across a few older dresses that will more than likely never be worn again, but I couldn't bring myself to delete them... especially the dresses that were from stores that no longer exist!  My lovely Plurk friends suggested that I should box them which of course makes perfect sense.  I always hated the idea of packing and unpacking inventory, but if it is something that I won't use a lot, it is definitely more logical to pack it.  I remembered an inventory 'closet' by Tiny Spaces that I have which is extremely easy to use; unfortunately, the owner no longer has an in-world store, and I cannot find the item on her marketplace.  There are, however, a lot of inventory organizers on the marketplace for you to choose from to help you clean up your item count.

I have technically already blogged the dress I am wearing from Scribble, but it was ages ago before I even knew how to take a high-rez photo.  That's a scary thought.  The design was an exclusive from the designer for an event called it was a blur.  At the time, it was definitely the most unique environment I had ever emerged my ava in.  Since Scribble has disappeared from the grid, the thought of deleting this really bothered me especially since I like it.  However, it is now tucked safely in a box where I can pull it out when and if the occasion calls.


Credits
Clothing: Her Ghost by Scribble (No Longer Available)
Hair: Sybille 2 in Chocolate by Wasabi Pills
Skin: Love (Milk) Daydream by Illusory (No Longer Available)
Pose: Dressed 10 by Glitterati (No Longer Available)
Location: T Town

Never My Love

I had such difficulty with this photo that I almost scrapped it.  If you look in the background, you will notice that the windows on the house are not quite right.  They have a weird twisted shape and no matter what setting I tried to tweak, I could not get them to look normal without getting closer to the house.  Instead of deleting the photo and looking for a different location, I decided to use it anyway and see if any of the many talented photographers could help me with my little problem.  Any suggestions are appreciated!

There are so many new (and beautiful) items in the outfit I'm sharing.  JANE recently released two new mesh dresses, and honestly, who doesn't get excited about this?  One of the dresses is a strapless design (photoed above) and the other features a 50s style strap.  Twelve total patterns are available between the two dresses.  Five standard sizes, an alpha layer and a shadow layer are included with your purchase, and you are able to demo all mesh items at JANE absolutely free.  I first discovered JANE during a sale almost two years ago; of course, mesh was not in the picture then, but I fell in love with her designs and the love just keeps growing.  While you are at JANE, check out the clearance sale in the back room.  All nonstandard sized mesh has been reduced by 50% and will be retired when the sale ends.

Wasabi Pills has two new hair styles out for Fairy Tales in 2012 and both are absolutely stunning.  Mesh hair has been very touch and go with me.  I've always loved TRUTH hair, but for some reason his mesh designs have a crinkled texture on me.  I've never had that problem with Wasabi Pills, and as a photographer I love the fact that the 'alpha' portions do not disappear when I turn on shadows.  It can really be a pain to take multiple pictures to be able to put those pieces back in.  If Fairy Tales in 2012 is still a little too crowded for things to rez properly for you, demos of the two hair styles can be found at Wasabi Pills' main store.

I'm not sure if I have ever tried a Belleza skin before, but either way I am in love now!  Evil Queen is one of two new skins also featured at Fairy Tales in 2012.  I know everyone always talks about the body of a skin, and while the body is very important, the face is honestly my favorite feature and Belleza's couldn't get much prettier.  The lips on Evil Queen are to die for (no pun intended) and the brows are so pronounced and striking.  For you body lovers, highlighting and shading can be found throughout the skin which gives it more realistic look.

Last, but certainly not least, are the adorable new mesh shoes I am wearing from Izzie's.  I don't think my inventory will ever have enough flats!  I probably love these so much in world because I love them so much in my real life.  My job requires me to be on my feet the majority of the day, and I don't think my body could handle heels all day.  The shoes feature a cute flower on top.  Thirteen two-toned options are available as well as two solid options.  A free demo is available for your convenience.


Credits
Clothing: *Blake Dress in Cherry by JANE
Shoes: *Flower Flats in White by Izzie's
Jewelry: *Leah by je suis
Hair: *Princess in Chocolate by Wasabi Pills @ Fairy Tales in 2012
Skin: *Evil Queen by Belleza @ Fairy Tales in 2012
Pose: Model 251 by Glitterati
Location: T Town

* Denotes promotional copy.

ZombiePopcorn Carnival

The ZombiePopcorn Carnival started a little over a week ago, but I have been so busy with Seraphim that I haven't really had time to post any of the goodness for you here.  The adorable outfit I'm wearing is new from Izzie's and an exclusive for the carnival.  The pattern on the leggings is really out there, but I have to admit that I love the craziness of them!  Izzie's is one of the only brands in Second Life that I will still wear sculpted pieces from.  Mesh has totally spoiled me when it comes to movement, but the reason I fell in love with Izzie's designs in the first place was because of how well her sculpted clothing moved with my ava!  Both the pants and the top are offered in twelve colors and will be at the event through June 30th.

The skin I am wearing is also new from Izzie's.  Estella is offered in nine skin tones and includes dark brows, light brows, red brows, blonde brows, optional cleavage, optional freckles on tattoo layer, a brow shape, a modifiable body shape, a nail base, twelve eyeshadows and twelve lipsticks.  (Ebony, cocoa and mocha skin tones include only one brow color.)  You get so much product for your Lindens with Izzie's skins!  If you have never tried one, I highly recommend stopping by her shop and trying a free demo.


Credits
Clothing: [Top] *Loose Crochet Top in Pink and [Pants] *Aztec Print Leggings in Pink by Izzie's @ ZombiePopcorn Carnival
Jewelry: Chum Necklace by miel
Glasses: Genius Peppers by miel
Hair: Never in Brown 11 by [elikatira] (VIP Group Gift - No Longer Available)
Skin: *Estella Skin Pale DB by Izzie's
Makeup: *Estella Lipstick Rose by Izzie's
Pose: *Pencil II 8m by aDORKable Poses

* Denotes promotional copy.

Liquid Light

I'm not sure that I have ever done a post exclusively for eyes, but, as my mother always likes to say, there is a first time for everything!  Mayfly's new colors for their Liquid Light Mesh Eyes collection are stunning to say the least.  The eyes are resizable by script with two options for pupil size.  The eyes also contain options for full bright/glow or off bright/glow.  Your purchase includes four versions according to the level of white.  System layer eyes are also available and are located in the main vendor with the picture of the product; if you wish to purchase the mesh eyes, please use the small vendor located under the main one.


Credits
Eyes: *Liquid Light Mesh Eyes in Rainshower Shadow by Mayfly
Skin: Pout Pure 1 (Sundust) by Curio
Hair: Sybille 2 in Chocolate by Wasabi Pills
Pose: Headshot 5 by Glitterati

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