Baby, it’s cold outside

February 24th, 2012 at 06:37pm Ryan Darragh

One of the beautiful things about SL is that I can (virtually) wear things I wouldn’t, couldn’t, or simply have no need to wear in real life. Although I do tend to express my own personal and particular tastes more often than not, I’ve also learned to find the fun in putting together looks for different “personalities” of my avatar that aren’t Ryan. Sometimes this is more challenging (I imagine because of a combination of “I know Ryan so well” and “There’s already a lot of me in Ryan”–both of which are of course true), but other times everything seems to come together almost as if by magic.

This was one of those magic times. And not because I was struck by divine or other inspiration, even though it may have felt like that’s what happened. No; as is most often the case, the magic lay entirely in fine design work that immediately suggested a “look” and lent itself naturally to accessorizing. icco Halcali’s Check Jacket for men is one of those things I might not (probably wouldn’t) wear in real life…but in SL I was sure I could make it work.

icco’s jacket is bold indeed, with strong, clean lines and a big, bright tartan-style plaid fabric print. The design is simple but most definitely not simplistic: jacket-layer base with broad sculpted collar, cuffs, and jacket bottom. In keeping with the jacket’s decidedly masculine profile, the prim buttons are beautifully oversized and impossible to miss (well, unless they’re hidden by a scarf) . The broad collar and pocket trim are textured in what looks like low, thick, dark fur. I will confess that, when I first tried on the jacket, the phrase that whispered itself in the back of my mind was “sexy lumberjack”. In the end, though, I think it’s more along the lines of “just the thing for a winter resort holiday”: fun in the snow before heading back to the lodge for a hot buttered rum and a roaring fire.

In four colors, L$320 each, at Halcali (Chimera Island 52, 139, 23). Also available styled for women.

To keep my feet properly warm and toasty—it isn’t all evenings by the fire, after all—I decided on Riq Grave’s Boston Boots. These are handsome all-weather boots, with a look that’s very L.L. Bean/Lands End, although I dare say more stylish than those venerable but conservative brands tend to be in their own designs. You definitely get more personalization options: you can customize the inner lining, eyelets, laces, tongue, and sole rubber to your liking. As if that weren’t already enough fun, you can also choose to add a rolled denim pants cuff or slightly scrunchie socks in a handful of colors. The various and different textures, construction, and detailing—all are seriously impressive. There appears to be a built-in ankle locker that keeps the boots from appearing to “break” your ankles in certain poses.

In 11 outer leather colors, L$325 a pair or L$2300 for the fat pack—not exactly inexpensive…but, in my opinion, not at all overpriced. Men’s and women’s sizes are included. A free demo is available. At Reek (Reek 72, 60, 325).

Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: No

Notes: On Ryan: "Hyperion - Theon (Stubble II)" skin by Theodore DuCasse (Zanzo). "Trick" shape by Flight Metall (Maverick Design). "Foresight" hair by Diarmuid Miklos (Ispachi). Plain Tank top by Jesseaitui Petion (Aitui). Midnight Blue Jeans and Grey/Black Scarf by Shinichi Mathy (SHIKI).

Entry Filed under: Boots,Casual,Dressy,Halcali,Jackets,Reek