Posts filed under 'Dressy'
My affinity for “contemporary casual” clothing—and surely you know this about me by now—is both a gift and a curse. (In fact, I kind of hate the phrase itself. If anyone knows of or has come up with a better description, please please please let me get what I want…er, leave a comment!) It’s a gift because there’s a lot of it out there to choose from. It’s a curse because, let’s face it, a lot of what’s out there is sadly repetitive, derivative, unoriginal, ordinary, or just not very interesting. It was the fabulous fabulist Theodore Sturgeon who famously observed that “90% of everything is crap.” (Okay, what Ted actually said was “crud,” but I’m fond of the misquotation.) The challenge lies in the finding of the 10% that isn’t.
(more…)
Disclosure: Seen in world: Yes | Review copy: No | Friends list: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Red - Pale" skin by Iki Ikarus (Dutch Touch). "Jason" hair by Truth Hawks (TRUTH). "Thali (Orai)" eyes by Theodore DuCasse (Zanzo). Flip-Flops for Men by risey Arai (:sey). Lynix glasses by Nibb Tardis (primOptic).
Post Category: Casual,Dressy,Jewelry,Socialite Wardrobe,Sweaters,n-creation
August 20th, 2010 at 08:07amRyan Darragh
LTHOUGH MANY OF HIS OTHER products are not aimed at all of us, men of any orientation should know about and probably own some of Prynce Llewellyn‘s finely composed and hard-working suits. These are strongly-styled but structurally simple suits, with no fussy prim attachments but plenty of layers and options.
Tweed Suit is probably my favourite. Wear it with a retro, pale matching sweater, or a traditional white button-down shirt. Wear the shirt with the collar buttoned or unbuttoned or with a necktie of matching colour. Everything just matches, everything just works. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Mr. Oh: Johan SK skin by Tricky Boucher (Belleza). Brad hair in Ash Grey by Maddox DuPont (MADesigns). Formica Glasses No 6 (simple) by Rozoregalia Braveheart (Rozoregalia). City Walk shoes in black by Fallingwater Cellardoor (Shiny Things).
Post Category: Business,Casual,Dressy,General,Gift Items,Hats,Outfits,Pants,Shirts,Subversion,Suits,Sweaters,Ties,Vests
August 17th, 2010 at 03:54amMr. Oh
a crazily optimistic statement about our self-understanding as human beings. That an artist like Keth Mommsen puts the effort and energy into designing virtual clothing as distinguished and elegant as her ‘David’ suit for men, and that apparently there are now enough men who value such quality to make these efforts rewarding, warms my analogue heart.
It’s a black tux, there are no grey or white or brown versions. And the shirt is always white. But there is a veritable rainbow of colours of vest and matching cravat ties. Oh, and what ties. It was the cravat that made David a must-own for me. Rich, extravagant bunched fabric, almost more a scarf but tied like a tie; lovely! (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Some | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: No
Notes: On Mr. Oh: Johan SK skin by Tricky Boucher (Belleza). Brad hair in Ash Grey by Maddox DuPont (MADesigns). Intuition glasses by Gospel Voom (Gos). "Frankin" shoes by Eponymous Trenchmouth (Jeepers Creepers Shoes).
Post Category: Dressy,Eros Designs,Formal,General,Jackets,Outfits,Shirts,Socks,Suits,Ties,Vests
July 31st, 2010 at 03:06amMr. Oh
ven though the poster only had photos of women on it, I took a chance and bought Sonatta Morales‘s Charleston glasses for L$100. It was the right decision. These beauties feature great tortoise-shell rims with brass arms and fittings. Darned if they don’t feel right at home with any outfit from contemporary to 1920s period-piece to steam-punk.
There are three copies of the glasses in the folder: clear glass (shown), sunglasses and dark sunglasses. The permissions are set to No Transfer. Out of the box, they’re too small for a male avatar and they attach to mouth rather than nose, but they’re modify ok, so I was able to attach to nose, and move them into position and enlarge them just fine.
Charlestown glasses are available from Sonatta Morales at her main store in Ballyboo.
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Mr. Oh: Johan SK skin by Tricky Boucher (Belleza). Brad hair in Ash Grey by Maddox DuPont (MADesigns). Blue Pinstripe suit by traveller Bade (Sartoria).
Post Category: Casual,Dressy,Eyewear,Period,Sonatta Morales,Steampunk
July 21st, 2010 at 06:37amMr. Oh
One of the many things I like about SL is the opportunity it provides to explore, albeit virtually and to a necessarily limited extent, aspects of cultures other than one’s own. Like me, you probably have several favorite places to visit in SL, and I’m willing to bet that at least some of them don’t look like your RL neighborhood. Perhaps you like Paris in springtime, Barcelona in the fall, or the dark side of the Moon. A recent series of more-or-less random TP hops brought me to a fairly impressive replica of the Taj Mahal, and I was inspired to outfit my avatar appropriately for a return visit. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in world: Yes | Review copy: No | Friends list: No
Notes: On Ryan: �Hunter� Espresso Entice for Men skin by Sezmra Svarog (Nora; no longer available). �Adam� hair by Kavar Cleanslate (Exile). A001 Faded Classic jeans by Nicole David (Armidi). *ARAI* Sandal by mappy Hendrick (ARAI).
Post Category: Casual,Dressy,New Items,Shirts,Zaara
June 16th, 2010 at 08:08pmRyan Darragh
He had traveled much of the world, enough (he was confident) that his opinion could be considered an informed one. He had seen much of what there was to be seen, stood and walked in places few men had ventured, and eaten foods that most could not begin to imagine. He had visited places beautiful and forbidding, civilized and savage, welcoming and hostile. It was difficult if not all but impossible to surprise him. Imagine, then, his astonishment when he stepped off the boat at Adelaide, onto the dock, and into Paradise. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in world: Yes | Review copy: No | Friends list: No
Notes: On Ryan: �Antonio� skin by Funk Schnook (FNKY!). �Jardar� hair by MissAllSunday Lemon (Wasabi Pills). Boho Sandals by Fallingwater Cellardoor (Shiny Things).
Post Category: Coats,Dressy,Outfits,Pants,Shirts,Utopia
June 8th, 2010 at 08:50pmRyan Darragh
here are new sculpted-prim shoes at Guu Nishi‘s House of Curios Industries (HOC) and they are both stunning and inexpensive. We’ve featured HOC running shoes before: Rhys Ackmann, a guest consultant, loved his Bolts; Ryan wore some chucks as part of a rock-a-billy outfit and once called HOC‘s Skoochers “The best $10 shoes I’ve ever seen.” The new extended shoe selection at HOC offers phenomenal value for money and their flexibility makes them the new “Go To” shoes.
The newest pair in the HOC range are the Easy Striders, these comfortable slip-ons come with textures serious enough for business and others that are casual enough to wear with shorts. 
Many HOC shoes have tags with the company initials; on the Easy Striders, this is a little metal piece on the piping around the top of the shoe. Click the shoes to be presented with a blue dialog box to change texture. There are 10 texture possibilities in all, although the last 5 are only unlocked to HOC group members (you’ll need to have membership activated when you put on the shoe to enable the extra textures). All this for L$75! Copy and Modify are allowed; no Transfer. Also in the folder is a version of the shoes for Viewer 2. From what I’ve heard on the forums, I hope to never see that particular version in person. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Mr. Oh: Johan SK skin by Tricky Boucher (Belleza). Brad hair in Ash Grey by Maddox DuPont (MADesigns). Arach glasses by Nibb Tardis (primOptic). Baggy Jeans by Posy Trudeau (Homespun). Plain T-shirt in blood red by Truth Hawks (Truth).
Post Category: Business,Casual,Dressy,Formal,HOC Industries,New Items,Shoes,Sportswear,Urban
June 3rd, 2010 at 12:07amMr. Oh
I hardly know what to think any more, much less say, when Eponymous Trenchmouth releases a new shoe creation. At some point, one runs out of superlatives. There are just no more words. At least, there are no good ones left that I haven’t already used.
That said, my first response to Epo’s recently released Kool Kats loafers was, “Oh, these look terribly smart.” Epo’s reply: “Thank you. I was inspired by an old pair of two-tone Hush Puppies! The green ones are copied from mine. But my favorites are the Umber ones—not so much a color as an absence of same.” (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in world: Yes | Review copy: Yes | Friends list: Yes
Notes: On Ryan: "Antonio" skin by Funk Schnook (FNKY!). "Elick" hair by Din Raymaker (Uncleweb Studio). "Alexander" shirt by beanster Potato (Ducknipple). Brown Cords by Dan Senyurt (Dan Senyurt Menswear).
Post Category: Casual,Dressy,Jeepers Shoes,New Items,Shoes
May 14th, 2010 at 06:40pmRyan Darragh
Nix Sands’s Impressionista line of waistcoats puts a museum’s worth of artistry into your wardrobe. There are currently 9 in the series, with more allegedly on the way, and each one is beautifully made. Some, like Monet’s Lilies and Van Gogh’s Starry, bring to mind whole paintings, cut into waistcoat shape. Others, like Klimt’s Kiss or Swirl seem more like motifs based on the painting rather than wearing the painting itself. Still others, like Lautrec’s plums or reds, look like more traditional waistcoats.
Nix generously includes some period-piece flap-fronted trousers and a dress shirt with each waistcoat, so you’re ready to go before you know it! Elsewhere in the Xcentricity shop, you’ll find bow- or string-ties to go with the shirt, if you so require. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: No
Notes: On Mr. Oh: Johan SK skin by Tricky Boucher (Belleza). Brad hair in Ash Grey by Maddox DuPont (MADesigns). Formica No 2 in silver by Rozoregalia Braveheart (Rozoregalia). Blaze Regal Tux in Black by Blaze Columbia (Blaze); Casual Tux in Brown by Yelmer Pfeffer (Alphamale); Oslo boots in black and brown by Eponymous Trenchmouth (Jeepers Creepers Shoes).
Post Category: Business,Casual,Dressy,Formal,General,Period,Steampunk,Urban,Vests,Victorian,Xcentricity
April 1st, 2010 at 01:29amMr. Oh
But hey, doesn’t everybody? So I figure I’m not alone in that, not hardly. Surely you yourself are fond of getting a good deal. Here’s the thing: there are any number of other great blogs that focus on the great freebies, dollarbies and other bargains you can find in SL. As much as I like me a good bargain, bargains aren’t my main emphasis here. That said, if as you’re reading this you’re thinking, “Well, I love bargains, I’m killer at finding them, and I wouldn’t mind writing about the ones I find”…hey, give me a shout. We can do a deal, Mr. Bond! Today, though, I’ve got some great (I think they’re great) all-but-freebie items to show off. I’m hoping at least one or two of them will entice you do a little low-budget, high-value shopping.
The items making up my various outfits are all (with some few exceptions) from Slanted Fox. I’m sure I had visited Slanted Fox at some point in the past, but if I took anything home with me I’ve lost track of it somehow since then. I forget exactly what I was searching for the other day, when I ended up visiting again, but I think the phrase “3L$ Store” jumped out at me from the search listings. Apparently I must have clicked the link because there was a telltale whoosh, and next thing I knew I was in Harajukubox Town. You know, sometimes stuff just happens, and all you can do is roll with it. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in world: Yes | Review copy: Hell no | Friends list: No
Notes: On Ryan: “Tergum2 – Easterner” skin by Ororon Kamachi (Animus). “Akio” hair by Kavar Cleanslate (Exile). Old Shoes by Fallingwater Cellardoor (Shiny Things).
Post Category: 22769,Casual,Coats,Designer Reviews,Dressy,Fantasy,Freebies,Gloves,Hats,Jackets,Jeans,Jewelry,Kotolier,Outfits,Pants,Period,Roleplay,Shirts,Shoes,Shorts,Slanted Fox,Sweaters
March 18th, 2010 at 08:01amRyan Darragh
The Dandy
His grandfather, Eustacio Babbage, had founded the great steamworks that had first allowed the great city of New Babbage to rise like a phoenix from the squalor of the grubby hamlet most now dismissed with no small contempt as Old Babbage, but which had then been simply Babbage. He himself now ran that steamworks, greatly expanded since its initial construction, and was immensely proud of the fact that it provided the power that drove most of New Babbage. Indeed, it was the steamworks that drove Industry itself and made life possible at their current impressive level of technological advancement, with all the accompanying creature comforts that the citizenry enjoyed so thoroughly. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in world: Yes | Review copy: Yes | Friends list: No
Notes: On Ryan: “Daniel” skin by Simple Spad (Signature Skin Labs). “Serafim” hair by Din Raymaker (Uncleweb Studio).
Post Category: 22769,Accessories,Casual,Coats,Designer Reviews,Dressy,Eyewear,Freebies,Hats,Jackets,Outfits,Pants,Period,Roleplay,Sales,Shirts,Steampunk,Suits,Vests
March 8th, 2010 at 11:39amRyan Darragh
I cannot tell you—I don’t think I can even begin—how much I dislike the word “murse.” It’s not even a word, really. It’s just a fake word somebody made up because they didn’t want to say “man purse.” And you can see why, but still. I mean, why does it have to be a “purse” of any kind?
Because I do like bags, and men often do really get the short end of the stick when it comes to things to contain and carry their stuff in. Women of course have purses, which are (in Western culture, at least) universally accepted not just as a utilitarian necessity but as a legitimate fashion accessory, and often a quite beautiful one. They take a variety of forms, as well, for different seasons and occasions: shoulder bags, tote bags, handbags, clutches, and the list goes on. And then there are the many interpretations and variations in shape, size, color, accents, trim—they’re almost like butterflies, with no two alike.
Men have wallets. Usually in black or brown. See what I mean? (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in world: Yes | Review copy: Some | Friends list: Some
Notes: On Ryan: “Daniel” skin by Simple Spad (Signature Skin Labs). “Nick” hair by Din Raymaker (Uncleweb Studio). Firenze Blues suit by Shiryu Musashi (Musashi-Do). React sunglasses by Rohal Schnyder (Role Optic).
Post Category: Bags,Dressy,Jeepers Shoes,New Items,SOHO Fashion,Shoes
February 25th, 2010 at 08:07pmRyan Darragh
I love New Year’s Eve. In some ways, it reminds me of my senior prom. It’s an opportunity to get all glammed up, go out to a fabulous party, and play for an evening at being grown-up, or maybe at being rich. Or both.
And a great beauty of SL is that you don’t have to be rich to play at being rich. For the equivalent of the cost of a mocha latte or two, you can outfit your SL self in stunning style, with attire and accessories that would be the envy of even the hottest flavor-of-the-moment supermodel. Not that supermodels care all that much, anyway; wearing beautiful clothing is just a job to them.
It’s become something of an annual tradition for me to feature formalwear from Styles of edo. I guess that shouldn’t be too surprising—edo Tone’s formals are among the best I’ve seen, and they’re always some of my favorites. I’ve chosen a few designs from his 2009 collection that I think are especially noteworthy. Hopefully you’ll think so, too. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in world: Yes | Review copy: Some | Friends list: Some
Notes: On Ryan: "Narcissus" skin by Theodore DuCasse (Zanzo). Arabesque Cross Ring by Yukirei Greene (Skill Normal). Braced Wooden Cane by Vincente Shepherd (Gaslights Emporium).
Post Category: Accessories,Coats,Dressy,Formal,Hair,Hats,Jackets,Jewelry,Pants,Rozoregalia,Shirts,Shoes,Styles of edo,Suits,Ties,Vests
December 31st, 2009 at 06:23pmRyan Darragh
I guess I’m getting a little ahead of myself here. I have some beautiful formalwear to show you—possibilities for a highly dramatic New Year’s Eve party—but I thought that first I’d go directly to the after-party. Do not pass Go, do not collect L$200. Now, it’s understandable if you feel that the main event deserves most of your sartorial time, attention and budget. But don’t make the mistake of thinking that what you wear to the after-party somehow matters less. In its own way, it’s just as important. You’re still making an impression, after all! You can’t just throw on khakis and a polo and let it go at that. (Jeans and a t-shirt can work, though…if they’re the right jeans and the right t-shirt.) No, you still need to put some time, effort and attention into your after-party attire. Don’t worry, though. I’m here to help. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in world: Yes | Review copy: Some | Friends list: Some
Notes: On Ryan: "Kamal" skin by Shiloh Jun (Shiloh Jun). "Dynamite" hair by Booperkit Moseley (BooPerFunK!).
Post Category: Casual,Dressy,Eolande Elvehjem,Havana,Jeepers Shoes,New Items,Outfits,Pants,Shirts,Updated Items,Yukirei Greene
December 28th, 2009 at 07:47pmRyan Darragh
Shiryu Musashi has been designing for the SL fashion scene for coming up on five years now—his store, Musashi-Do, officially opened on November 27, 2004. I don’t know about you, but this is significantly earlier than my own rez date. He has a well-earned reputation for painstaking perfectionism, and his hand-painted fabric textures are beyond reproach. Shiryu has recently released some new suits for men—something that’s always nice to see!—and these are accompanied by his own innovation in dress neckwear: the InfiniTIE. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in world: Yes | Review copy: Yes | Friends list: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Narcissus" skin by Theodore DuCasse (Zanzo). "Leo" hair by Kavar Cleanslate (Exile; this "Kerosene" color was a group gift). Oxford Shoes by Tesla Miles (TESLA).
Post Category: Business,Casual,Dressy,Freebies,Jackets,Musashi-Do,New Items,Pants,Shirts,Suits,Ties
November 18th, 2009 at 08:59pmRyan Darragh
In SL, I try to get out of my RL box, from time to time at least. Isn’t that a big part of what SL is for, really? My recent Prince of the Underworld is miles removed from anything I’d wear in RL, probably even for Halloween, if only for practical reasons. Stuff like that is a lot of fun, and it’s good to stretch. I do have my comfort zone, though, and every once in a while I run into some new designs that seem quite literally tailor-made for me and my own tastes. AlexanderHunter Rembrandt’s just-opened {AHC} (the initials stand for “AlexanderHunter’s Couture”) houses just such a collection. AlexanderHunter says that his goal with {AHC} is “class and excellence with just a hint of sexiness for both men and women…haute couture and accessories inspired by real life’s top designers. The collections are seasonal and therefore available only for a few months, making every design a limited edition.” The names of the various specialty shops at {AHC} reflect these inspirations: Dulce & Ghanel women’s wear; Valenciaga men’s wear; Prava men and women’s footwear; Vuittior men and women’s jewelry, handbags, and additional accessories; and San Lauren men and women’s skins and hairstyles. They also convey a slyness and sense of fun suggesting that AlexanderHunter isn’t taking himself too seriously. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in world: Yes | Review copies: Yes | Friends list: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Narcissus" skin by Theodore DuCasse (Zanzo). Gold Flakes – Olivine eyes by Lano Ling (Poetic Colors). Soubresaut shoes by Pique Flan (2g). Murphys shoes by Fallingwater Cellardoor (Shiny Things). Brown Leather Bag by Jesseaitui Petion (Aitui).
Post Category: AHC,Casual,Designer Reviews,Dressy,Freebies,Hair,Jackets,Jeans,Jewelry,New Items,Pants,Shirts,Suits,Sweaters
October 19th, 2009 at 09:23amRyan Darragh
Mortis was bored. He hadn’t gone anywhere in ages. Well, unless you counted going to and fro on the earth, and walking up and down upon it. Which he, himself, did not count. He couldn’t believe he had ever let Lucifer talk him into that one. When you came right down to it, it was hardly an enjoyable pastime—in fact, it was worse than jogging—and it wasn’t like he needed the cardio. No, he wanted to go out and have some fun. He wanted to go dancing. Goth black boots or no, his feet were nimble and he knew how to trip the light fantastic. If you asked Mortis, dancing hadn’t been the same since the end of disco. That Travolta was one mortal who knew how to move. Well, he had some moves of his own, if he did say so himself. God, but the Seventies had been great. On earth, anyway—everywhere else they had kind of sucked. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: Steampunk Gothic Black Boots by Thomus Keen (Steam Powered Nuts).
Post Category: Avatars,Dressy,Fantasy,Gothic,Kitheres,New Items,Period,RFyre,Roleplay,Suits
October 13th, 2009 at 10:09pmRyan Darragh
Getting dressed is as easy as throwing on a pair of jeans and a shirt. But style is in the details, and that often means accessories – an area of fashion often difficult for men. Should the belt match the shoes? Should the shoes match the coat? Should the coat match the watch? Can’t I just say to hell with it and put on my bathrobe and stay home?
In any outfit, finding the right balance of accessories is key. Too few is bland; many and you end up looking like Mr. T (and that is only a good look on Mr. T). Further, your accessories should complement each other. While they don’t have to match exactly, they should appear to have the same purpose. Dress shoes look good with a suit, or parts of one; less so with Bermuda shorts. (more…)
Post Category: 2g,Accessories,Casual,Dressy,Eyes,Eyewear,Flesh Peddlers,Freebies,GBTM,Hair,Hayate's Hair Lab,Jeans,Kari,Laqroki,LeLutka,Maschienenwerk,Shirts,Shoes,Skins,The Abyss,Ties,[Guest Style Consultant]
September 23rd, 2009 at 09:46amRyan Darragh
I don’t wear a lot of jewelry in real life. Oh, I have a few items I love and wear regularly. Pretty much every day I wear the Celtic knot ring in silver that I bought from a street vendor in Dublin, as well as a simple but unusual fleur-de-lis pendant I found in New Orleans. I also have my grandfather’s gold high school class ring (Class of 1932), which gets pride of place on my right hand (the middle finger—he was a big man) on special occasions. From time to time, I wear a watch, although mostly these days I rely on my mobile phone to tell me the time—strictly functional, not especially classy.
But SL is different. And I don’t mean just because in SL I can afford all kinds of extravagant jewelry that I could never even dream of touching in RL. I mean, that’s true of course—I can do that if I want to, and I certainly have. But that’s not the only difference. Equally real is the possibility of exploring different aspects of one’s personality by venturing into different genres, styles and themes that in RL might not take first priority or even be accessible. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: Yes
Notes: On Ryan: "Cole" skin by Commandah Keen (Dernier Cri). "Jin" hair by Maddox DuPont (MADesigns). Lustrous Eyes by Brandy Rasmuson (Shine). A0001 Jeans by Nicole David (Armidi).
Post Category: Casual,Designer Reviews,Dressy,Jewelry,LOAQ,New Items
September 21st, 2009 at 10:09pmRyan Darragh
They told me I could find the tailor’s cabin out in the forest of Isola Gavia. I was at first a bit taken aback—this would be no easy trek of a day or two and, as I would not be able to bring my horse across the channel, I would be on foot on the island. I was given further pause when I learned that my guns would not be welcome. What manner of place was this? I was assured that my safety would be in no way compromised. This tailor, Masa by name, was reputed to be among the very best, and I was, after all, in great and dire need of one or more new suits of clothing. So saddled up and I undertook the journey with high hopes and, truth be told, some small apprehension.
The traveling directions I had been given were clear and accurate, and I was met at the channel crossing by a man of quiet demeanor and serious but not dour expression. We negotiated payment for the crossing and return. “Will you be staying the night, sir? There are accommodations to be found, and entertainments to be enjoyed.” I felt certain that I could not sleep the night without my guns nearby, and told the man I would meet him to return an hour before sundown. He nodded, and then he helped me to stable my horse and silently took my guns when I offered them. I found myself feeling not just vulnerable but somehow unclothed without them. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Cole" skin by Commandah Keen (Dernier Cri). "The Reaper" hair by Sebastian Aries (SHAG). Old Shoes by Fallingwater Cellardoor (Shiny Things).
Post Category: Deadwool,Designer Reviews,Dressy,Hats,Period,Roleplay,Suits,Vests
September 11th, 2009 at 10:33amRyan Darragh
Akin to humans, furs come in all shapes and sizes, with the added complexity of species to consider. Perhaps a little more challenging, albeit very rewarding, is customizing your furry self. Unlike humans, furry avatars do not have an easy to use slider system for changing the shape and size of various attributes. And while clothes may make the man, they most definitely make the fur–as do accessories; for it is the easiest way to express individuality when bound by a (usually) difficult-to-modify avatar. Before I jump into apparel however, I do wish to say a few words about some of the customizations possible with a furry avatar. Results vary, as does everyone’s desire to modify his or her base furry avatar. (more…)
Post Category: Accessories,Avatars,Aventity,Dressy,Fantasy,Furry,Illusions,Period,Roleplay,Serious Giggle,Silent Sparrow,Suits,Victorian,[Guest Style Consultant]
September 1st, 2009 at 10:58amRyan Darragh
Do you ever get a crazy question stuck in your head, and you just can’t shake it? You know what I mean. It’s usually an “I wonder” type of question, typically one with no readily apparent answer. For a kid it may be, “I wonder why the sky is blue?” Adults may venture into the philosophical with “How do they get all those clowns in that little clown car?” And then there’s the eternal classic: “How many angels can dance on the head of a pin?”
Well, recently for me it was “I wonder how elves dress in summer?” I know—it’s not exactly earth-shattering. And yet…I really wondered. How do elves dress, anyway, for say a summer picnic? Or a cruise, maybe, or just business casual? Try though I might, I just couldn’t shake it. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan:"Edwen" skin by Namida Akami (MUWU). "Lovestruck" eyes by Photos Nikolaidis (A:S:S).
Post Category: Accessories,Casual,Caverna Obscura,Defectiva,Dressy,Gems & Kisses,Hair,Jackets,NachtMusik,Outfits,Shirts,Shoes,Shorts,Suits,Wasabi Pills,Yukirei Greene
August 20th, 2009 at 12:05pmRyan Darragh
Being classy on Second Life in a predominantly hip-hop environment is not easy. I’ve been on the game for well over one year and from the first day to the day I wrote this I can honestly say certain scenes on SL have and will never change. Every group, every clique, every organization has a particular style they represent. In the hip-hop community it’s usually as follows:
1 pair of Nike Uptown styled sneakers (tennis shoes for those of you in the south)
1 pair of baggy jeans
1 sports jersey
1 excessively over-primmed platinum chain and matching earrings
And last but not least, 1 oversized baseball cap representing the local team (more…)
Post Category: Adam n Eve,Dressy,Epidermis Emporium,Exotique,Eyes,FNKY!,Jackets,Jewelry,Kalnins,Muism,Naith Smit Design,Pants,Poetic Colors,Rogue Men's Clothing,Sartoria,Shirts,Skins,Suits,[Guest Style Consultant]
June 25th, 2009 at 12:11pmRyan Darragh
This post is Part II of my coverage of Menlosophy, designs by Amanda Bolero and ziamela Loon. You can read Part I here.
One of the more traditional Menlosophy designs is undoubtedly the Chess shirt. When I say “traditional,” I don’t mean it as a slam–it’s not code for “conventional” or even ”old-fashioned”–and I mention it at all only because I’ve said so much in this context about getting outside the box. This shirt may still have one sleeve inside the box, but it’s such a handsome design, in such a challenging fabric print, that I can’t help but love it. The cut is flattering, and the tight check print is potentially problematic but done so well that it looks better than it has any right to do. Sculpted collar and cuffs are pretty much de rigeur for dressy shirts these days, and many casual shirts as well. Here the collar is casual but smart, with sharply creased edges and crisp points. The cuffs are equally casual but softer, rounder, and they looked comfortably turned-up. L$150. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Most | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Vivant Buff" skin by CJ Carnot (Fleur). "Akami" hair by Maddox DuPont (MADesigns). "numero83" sunglasses by Youki Ran (Ottico).
Post Category: Casual,Designer Reviews,Dressy,Jackets,Menlosophy,New Items,Outfits,Pants,Shirts,Shoes
June 23rd, 2009 at 03:04pmRyan Darragh
You’ve heard it. So have I. People complain not just about the relative dearth of menswear designs in SL (in comparison to the vast selection available for women, and although I suffer no shortage of fine items to feature here I think this is still generally true), but about the “sameness” we often see as well. (Sometimes it seems like everyone with Photoshop and a Wacom tablet has a shop selling jeans, tees and polos.) They want something interesting, fresh, original–”outside the box.” Hey, I’ve been known to join in that chorus myself. I’m a big fan of contemporary casual clothing, too, but within that fairly broad category it seems like there should be more room for exploration.
With their new collection at Menlosophy, design partners Amanda Bolero and ziamela Loon push the envelope and stretch the boundaries more than just a bit. Sure, much of the collection qualifies as “contemporary casual”–what’s not to love?–but few of any of the designs are simple or ordinary. One of my favorite pieces is the Velvet jacket, shown here in Verde. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Most | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Vivant Buff" skin by CJ Carnot (Fleur). "Akami" hair by Maddox DuPont (MADesigns).
Post Category: Casual,Designer Reviews,Dressy,Jackets,Menlosophy,New Items,Outfits,Pants,Shirts,Shoes
June 19th, 2009 at 04:29pmRyan Darragh
It’s official–swaffette has gone a little bit mad.
In the best way possible, I mean. Her new Performance Suit, released earlier this month, may just be the most impressively flexible suit I’ve ever worn. Dozens of pieces provide for what seems like tons of mix-and-match wear options. I tried to count up the possibilities, but I gave up when I lost track and had to start over. Twice. I kid you not.
swaffette’s creation is a classic English three-piece suit, in an attractive slim cut, with two-button jacket. This simple description doesn’t begin to convey the extensive planning and effort that have clearly gone into such a generous “single garment” offering. If that doesn’t signify some kind of madness, I don’t know what does. But you be the judge. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: Yes
Notes: On Ryan: "Vivant Blush Clean" skin by CJ Carnot (Fleur). "Jude" hair by Aleri Darkes (Diversity). Oxford Loafers in Wolvercote by Drusus DuCasse (Zanzo). Dragon Slippers (a Midnight Mania freebie) by Photos Nikolaidis (A:S:S). "Arcadi" glasses by Rohal Schnyder (ROLE Optic).
Post Category: Business,Dressy,Freebies,Jackets,New Items,Pants,SF Design,Shirts,Suits,Ties,Vests
June 16th, 2009 at 02:59pmRyan Darragh
There’s a big “Fire Sale” going on at Blaze! All Tuxes, Suits, Dresses and Pumps are just L$100, Gowns L$100-200, bundles for even less. The sale ends June 14, and many items will be retired, so don’t wait around!
Post Category: Asides,Blaze Columbia,Business,Dressy,Formal,Sales,Suits
June 3rd, 2009 at 09:43amRyan Darragh
Every once in a while, I run into clothing designs that impress and even amaze me on every level: technical, artistic, aesthetics, style. It is, to say the least, an impressive accomplishment. Not because I’m difficult to please–I like to think that I’m selective and discriminating, but taste is after all highly subjective–but because of the amount of work the designer/artist has done to create the designs. I simply can’t imagine the the hours of painstaking effort it must take to create the textures, sculpts and prim designs that go together to make a virtual item that feels fully real. It makes my eyes cross and my head hurt just to think about it. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Uchi II" Tan Chops Tattoo skin by Dismebodied Hand (Steam Powered Industries / Defectiva). "Zach" hair by Truth Hawks (TRUTH). Mayhem Umbrella 2.0 by Drack Diesel (freebie).
Post Category: Accessories,Arcavim,BLITZED,Boots,Designer Reviews,Dressy,Eyewear,Fantasy,Hats,Jackets,New Items,Pants,Period,Roleplay,Shirts,Steampunk,Ties,Vests,Victorian
June 2nd, 2009 at 03:43pmRyan Darragh
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