Posts filed under 'Grunge'
So, overall it’s been a pretty good week. As I shared earlier, Dragontat Zagato has stepped back into the SL fashion world with his new collection at Deserted. And, oh by the way, he mentioned that he’s also reopening Brief Encounter this weekend, with new underwear designs and a Halloween collection! So there’s that as well. As if all this weren’t enough, at the Deserted opening shindig I got the chance to chat with Zabitan Assia—it had been way too long—and learned that he too has some new designs burning a creative hole in his inventory. Like DT’s, Zab’s tees have long been among my favorites. I love their dark, rich color palettes and the subtle intricacy of their design work, which is at least occasionally inspired by anime and manga.
Zab’s new tees have much in common with his earlier designs (a.k.a. The Classics), and that means there’s much to love. Slinky fit, check. Black is the new black, check. Neat edging on collar and sleeves, ch—wait. What the f—? Hey, these shirts are jacked! Seriously, look at ‘em, the edges are all torn up. Is that just shoddy workmanship, lazy-ass stitching maybe, or did somebody use too much bleach? No, no. And no. These shirts are not jacked. They are tattered, though, intentionally and ever so stylishly, to add just a bit more low-end grunge to your high-end vibe. See, there is a method to the madness. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: Yes
Notes: On Ryan: “Steve Law” skin by Khai Sinister (The Abyss). “Kein” hair by Shylah Honey (Damselfly). Desolate Jeans by Dragontat Zagato (Deserted). Low-top sneakers by Armin Rickena (Machienenwerk). Micanga (friendship bracelet) by noni Troncon (nonino).
Post Category: Casual, FORM, Grunge, New Items, Shirts
October 9th, 2009 at 09:26amRyan Darragh
Before we get started, I’d just like to mention out that I was working (albeit vaguely) toward a goth-themed post of some kind even before a recent discussion in comments touching on the relative merits of themed or “genre” style, such as goth, emo, neko and grunge. To me it seemed that the upshot of our dialogue was that themed styles like these are great, but it’s good not to fall into the rut of any one style and never do anything else. Fair enough! I’d buy that for a dollar.
So, as I say, I was already working on something, and by this I mean that I was accumulating some things (too many things, in turns out) that I thought would work and letting the ensemble percolate in my mind, waiting for it to be birthed fully formed, like Venus. Lest you get the wrong impression, I hasten to add that it is only sometimes that serendipitous. Most often, I find that I have to sweat a little bit to make the magic happen. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: Some
Notes: On Ryan: Ash Jeans by Zabitan Assia (FORM).
Post Category: Accessories, Aphrodites Skin and Shapes, Boots, Casual, Dressy, Eyes, Fantasy, Gothic, Grunge, Hair, New Items, Schadenfreude, Shirts, Simply Neko, Skins, Styria, TESLA, Ties, Wasabi Pills
May 21st, 2009 at 05:02pmRyan Darragh
It begins here for me on this road. How the whole mess happened I don’t know, but I know it couldn’t happen again in a million years. Maybe I could’ve stopped it early, but once the trouble was on its way, I was just goin’ with it. Mostly I remember the girl. I can’t explain it–a sad chick like that, but somethin’ changed in me. She got to me, but that’s later anyway. This is where it begins for me, right on this road.
(more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: Some
Notes: On Ryan: "Miguel" skin by Tricky Boucher (Belleza). 000 Jeans by Zabitan Assia (FORM).
Post Category: ARGRACE, Boots, Casual, Freebies, Grunge, Hair, Hats, Jackets, Jewelry, Miau Haus, New Items, Perfectionist, Relish, Treads, Vests
April 15th, 2009 at 12:49pmRyan Darragh
To begin with, in second life, I’m a DJ and manager at The Wharf. I host events for other Djs, as well. If you’ve never been to the Wharf, you are missing out on a fantastic place. Chester Howley and Finnegan Chesnokov are the dynamic duo that own the place, and have made it into the awesome place it is today. I love to talk to and meet people. And I love to share my music - hence the DJ thing.
You could say that I spend a great deal of time in and around music on SL. I enjoy exploring various places, whether its a music club, seeing interesting builds, or going shopping and doing things with my friends. I have met some fantastic people, and have grown very close to a few. (more…)
Post Category: Accessories, Akeyo, Animus, BareRose Tokyo, Boobery!, BroGear, Casual, Earandil Lowenhart, Eyes, Eyewear, Fantasy, Grunge, Hair, Jackets, Jewelry, Pants, ROLE Optic, Shirts, Shoes, Skins, Snipster'Z, Styria, The Body Politik, Zanzo, [Guest Style Consultant], sey
April 7th, 2009 at 11:16amRyan Darragh
Once upon a time, there was a boy. But this was no ordinary boy–he was a boy who, perhaps through mutation or other accident of biology, was also a cat. This was unusual enough, but then one day he was bitten by a great wild dog. That’s when things really started to get interesting. (more…)
Post Category: Accessories, Aitui, Aventity, BLITZED, Breach, Discord, Eyes, Gloves, Grunge, Hair, Hoodies, Hybrid, Kat-AR, Monogrind, Neko, Pants, Roleplay, Shirts, Silent Sparrow, Skins, Starfuker Skins, [Guest Style Consultant]
March 30th, 2009 at 02:43pmRyan Darragh
Gutterblood Spoonhammer has set up shop and is once again selling his fantastic boot designs. Drop by his beautifully eerie store and check things out!
Post Category: Asides, Boots, Casual, Grunge, Punk, Urban
March 19th, 2009 at 10:28amRyan Darragh
The S.I.C Civilian’s Coat by mk Curtiz is currently available as a gift to ”sick Residents” group members. Basic black, plenty of prim accents, including a three-position helmet (change by touch) with adjust gesture, particle steam and sound effects. Sweet!
Post Category: Asides, Casual, Coats, Grunge, Roleplay, S.I.C
March 17th, 2009 at 11:01amRyan Darragh
It feels like an age and a half since Fallingwater Cellardoor used her superpowers of creativity for the specific benefit of SL malekind, and we of that particular persuasion have been the poorer for it. Good lord, could her Murphy shoes really be her last release for us guys? Fallingwater, we’ve missed you! Please don’t leave us again like that. We promise to behave ourselves.
One look at her new men’s release, though, and I find myself thinking that maybe, just maybe, it was worth the wait. The Xing Boots are ferociously styled and immaculately constructed, with care, attention to detail, and love to spare. It’s good to feel the love again. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Gen-Y" skin by Theodore DuCasse (Zanzo). "BON75" hair by boo Nakamura (booN). Westhaven Sweater and Graphe Pants by Aleri Darkes (Diversity).
Post Category: Boots, Casual, Grunge, New Items, Shiny Things, Urban
February 19th, 2009 at 01:31pmRyan Darragh
When I was a kid, living in Kansas City, we had a black-and-white tabby cat named Patches. He didn’t much care for winter–he was an indoor cat, but he liked to run around in the yard, chew on the grass and chase grasshoppers. Snow three feet deep was, for Patches, a major buzzkill.
But not all cats hate snow. In fact, some of us kittehs can’t wait to get out and tear around in it. When you think about it, snow is water that doesn’t make your fur get all clumpy. What’s not to love? (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Simon" skin, Neko Ears and Stripey Design Shorts by Kenny Sleeper (Kalico Kreations). Neko Tail by Zoe Llewelyn (Jungle Voodoo). Freebie Hair #1 by Din Raymaker (Unclweb Studio). Skullflake tee (Christmas 2006 freebie) by Zabitan Assia (FORM).
Post Category: Bags, Boots, Casual, Defectiva, Grunge, Jackets, M.R.M., Neko, NyC, Snipster'Z, Vests
December 11th, 2008 at 08:58pmRyan Darragh
Gasher: Holy bleedin’ ‘ell, mate, what happened to him?
Ben: Firefight, Gash. Bastards jumped us out of Bartertown, lookin’ for swag. We fought ‘em off, but they chopped poor Stevo into mincemeat. Mikey got ‘im, wossname, stabilated. He’s a right mess, though.
Gasher: He is that. Right. Mikey?
Mikey: Wot?
Gasher: You’re gonna rebuild ‘im.
Mikey: Wot?
Gasher: You ‘eard me.
Mikey: We ain’t got the technology.
Gasher: Don’t gimme that shite, Mikey. Do it. Make ‘im better. Stronger. Faster. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen In World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Aidan: Highwind Skin by Murgatroyd Zauberflote (Geektopia). Zack hair by din Raymaker (Uncleweb Studios). Darumi tank outfit by June Dion (BareRose). Nasty floppy boots by Gutterblood Spoonhammer (Gutter Boots).
Post Category: Accessories, Designer Reviews, Grunge, Novelty, Primtronics, Roleplay, Steampunk, Uncleweb Studio, Urban
December 4th, 2008 at 04:12pmAidan Recreant
When crossing the Wastelands, it’s a good idea to make sure you have adequate provisions for the journey. Whether it’s food and water, equipment or other supplies, you’ll need something to help carry it all. (After all, the inventory is a wonderful, magical tool, but it’s neither visual nor particularly romantic.) Here I present for your consideration a handful of backpack-style accessories in different styles and configurations. One of these may be just what you need before setting out on your dusty trek. Always be prepared!
The first four designs here are creations by Cutea Benelli, of Grim Bros. You won’t have to look too closely to notice a certain stylistic similiarity: they’re all grungy. But there the resemblance ends, as each is thematically distinct and a unique creation in its own right. Here I’m wearing Cutea’s Enormous Pipe Dream, which has for its base a handsome but fairly standard-issue leather backpack. All pretense to the ordinary ends right there, though–the pack is crowned with a veritable halo of plumbing that suggests something very interesting indeed going on inside. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: Push
Notes: On Ryan: "Jack" skin by Posy Trudeau (Flesh Peddlers). "Forsaken" hair by Tami McCoy (Hair Designs by Tami McCoy). Mechanic Beater by Zabitan Assia (FORM). Predator Cargo Shorts by Donovan Brennen (GearShift). Bug Goggles by Pushbutton Skolnick (Sprawl). The Cog Necklace and Steampunk Crazy Watch by eko Merlin (Blitzed).
Post Category: Accessories, BLITZED, Boots, Fantasy, Grim Bros., Grunge, Neko, Novelty, Sprawl / Pushbutton Industries, Steampunk, Zero Number
November 26th, 2008 at 11:29pmRyan Darragh
I sagged against the ropes. Breath rasped in my throat, and I tensed as the cat came down again across my back. I would have pleaded for mercy, could I find the breath, though none would have given it. The boatswain shouted the count, and down came the cat once more. Pirates stood on either side of me, grinning and shouting. I took a grip on the ropes and yearned for unconsiousness. (more…)
Notes: On Aidan: Broder hair by Avant Scofield for The Good Life. Meno skin in Latte by Toshia Okawa for ::eXceSs::.
Post Category: Aunty Entity, Bloody Hell, Defiant Designs, Goth1c0, Grunge, GutterPup, Harmison's I.N.K., Kinky Items, Night Spirit, Overviews, Roleplay, Ropeworx, Skin Enhancements, The Good Life, Ubercrummy and Kitsch, Urban, eXceSs
November 22nd, 2008 at 03:47pmAidan Recreant
You know the type. You see them hanging around at family holiday parties, off to the side. This one’s just like all the rest–he’s your typical goth/emo/slacker boy, or whatever they’re into now. God only knows. He looks like he might be one of your wife’s cousin’s kids. And what’s with the attitude? This one’s sullen, broody, moody, like he’s disappointed by the world. You can’t get a word out of him, so don’t bother trying. You’d think his lips really were sewn shut or something. Don’t expect him to step up for karaoke, much less put on an actual costume. At least he made his face up, give him credit for that. But it’s a little too scary, really. That kid is seriously weird. I mean, what’s wrong with a cheap plastic mask? And would it kill him to bob for apples with the little kids? At least it would make his mother happy.
The thing is, he’s both more and less ”dressed up” than he realizes. He thinks he’s so special, but really they’re all more alike than different. He and his friends try to rebel, and the result is that you can’t tell one “rebellious” gothboy from another. Trying not to be posers, they end up posing like crazy. We were nothing like that when I was his age.
Kids these days…who can understand them? (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: Some
Notes: On Ryan:"Stitches" skin (Tone 01) by Draconic Lioncourt (Crimson Shadow). "Owen" hair (styles A and B) by Din Raymaker (Uncleweb Studio). Classic Jeans by Jesseaitui Petion (Aitui). Skully belt and high-tops by Menno Ophelia (Kari).
Post Category: Casual, Gothic, Gritty Kitty, Grunge, Holiday, Jewelry, New Items, Shirts, Uncleweb Studio, sey
October 20th, 2008 at 11:19pmRyan Darragh
So one of the things that Throwdown winners get to do is come up with ideas for other throwdowns. Domch Raymaker had a great theme for me: “aristocracy”. Unfortunately for him, he told me this while changing from his old outfit into a pink Darth Vader suit, and SL didn’t play nice. The end result in my head was even more fun: “dystopian masquerade ball.” Honestly, I had no clue where to start with this one, but I think that helped level the playing field against my opponent Iustinian Tomsen. Model, magazine writer, contributor to many blogs and owner of SLStyle, Iustinian is one of the classiest dressing males on the grid. With a budget of 3000L, I’m sure he and I will both have interesting interpretations of the theme. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: No
Post Category: Accessories, Boots, Coats, Costumes, Fantasy, Gloves, Grunge, Hair, Jeans, Outfits, Shirts, Steampunk, Style Throwdown
October 17th, 2008 at 07:11pmExpress Zenovka
When Iris floated “grunge” as the theme for this issue, she said, by way of suggestion, “Think Mad Max…think Tina Turner.” Ah, I thought, I know what she means—post-apocalyptic fashion. The Thunderdome! But when I started hitting up friends for their favorite grunge outfitters, they mentioned a number of designers, all doing creative work that’s at least as different as it is similar. Is grunge like indecency? Do people just know it when they see it? It seems that grunge is, or at least can be, many things to many people. Here I’ve taken a rather broad view, from urban back-alley chic to grunge kitty gear to steampunk wasteland hardware to, yes, post-apocalypse couture. I invite you to indulge yourselves. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: Some
Notes: On Ryan: FORM skin and “Yagaruma” hair by Zabita Assia (FORM). “Jack” skin with wounds by Posy Trudeau (Flesh Peddlers). “Simon” skin by Kenny Sleeper (Kalico Kreations). “Illusion” hair by Khai Sinister (The Abyss). “Sway” hair by Jesseaitui Petion (Aitui). Old Shoes by Fallingwater Cellardoor (Shiny Things). O-Ring jewelry by Mhaijik Guillaume (Mhaijik Things).
Post Category: Angry Monkey, BareRose Tokyo, BroGear, FORM, Fantasy, Grunge, Kalico Kreations, Steam Powered Nuts, Steampunk, Unzipped, [Men's Corner]
September 15th, 2008 at 09:07amRyan Darragh
Xekello Shilova’s company, ShooZ, makes few things for men. But a number are unisex and these are some you’re going to like. Top quality graffiti for your feet, wrapped onto one of the best sculpted sneaker shapes you’ve ever seen; you can feel the sponginess of the rubber-substitute in those toe pieces.
The first ones I show you have to be Wicked Dice with their vivid colours and striped laces. Here the graffiti is wild spray acrylic paints. I seem to have gotten a shopworn demo copy, as the toes are not in pristine shape. Before I forget, I should tell you that these zneeks all have software size control. Click on a sneaker and a dialogue box appears allowing you to change its size by increments. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Mr. Oh: Nora Entice - Hunter Cinnamon by Sezmra Svarog (Nora BodySkins & Fashion). Black Tweed Jeans from Denim Suit Set by Chloris Hathor (Indigo).
Post Category: Casual, Gothic, Grunge, Shoes, ShooZ, Urban
September 11th, 2008 at 12:37pmMr. Oh
It was a dark and stormy night when the taxi dropped me off at the high iron gates of Miskatonic University, at Arkham, Massachusetts. The driver seemed nervously distracted and sped away quickly into the darkness after unceremoniously hurling my heavy bags to the curb, but not, I noticed, without first grimacing in apparent annoyance at the paucity of the tip I had given him. I am, after all, a struggling student—now officially so—and as a consequence I must carefully mind my budgetary expenditures. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: Some
Notes: On Ryan: "Jack" skin by Posy Trudeau (Flesh Peddlers). "Ilias" hair by Din Raymaker (Uncleweb Studio). Ribbed Tank Tops by Shai Delacroix (Casa Del Shai). Scrunchie socks by Posy Trudeau (Civvies). On Sean: Cthulhu avatar by Starax Statosky (no longer available).
Post Category: Accessories, Bags, BroGear, Casual, GearShift, Grunge, Hoodies, J's, Jewelry, New Items, Shoes, Shorts, Sprawl / Pushbutton Industries, Uncleweb Studio, Urban
August 18th, 2008 at 01:35pmRyan Darragh
Primitive Design is one of those stores I’ve been familiar with for quite some time, and had on my list of places to review for nearly just as long. For some reason I’ve never gotten to it however, I should blame my lack of time in the past. A few days ago the creator Geyer Schnyder gave me a full tour of the store however after a mention of Ryan - and now here I am, finally writing the review I’ve been meaning to do for ages.
The store makes items of a grungy urban/street style. They sell pretty much everything you need for a full avatar, including skins since a few days ago. The skins are only available in two white skintones however, so I can’t review them. Luckily I’ll already have my hands full enough with the clothes and accessories.
I have put two full outfits together with the store’s items, and will show those in the review. There’s so much more for sale though that you should definitely check the place out. My goal here is to give you an idea of the designer’s work in general, so I’ll try to keep it as short as I can by not spending more than a paragraph on each individual item. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Everything except for the hair | Friends List: No
Notes: On Daman: Scorpio skin by Khai Sinister (TheAbyss), Akeyo Lowtop chucks by artoo Magneto (Akeyo), Pornstar Hi-Tops by Coke Dreadlow (Urban Bomb Unit)
Post Category: Accessories, Bags, Designer Reviews, Grunge, Hair, Jackets, Jeans, Jewelry, Primitive Design, Shirts, Urban
August 16th, 2008 at 07:07amDaman Tenk
I honestly hadn’t heard of this store before I got a landmark by way of the Free*Style group notices a few weeks ago. I finally head in to the store and I must say I’m glad I did. First of all, the store is really cool. The build is excellent quality, and its just a nice place to look at. On top of that, there are cool-looking clothes that aren’t same stuff you find everyone else wearing. Who doesn’t like being special like that? On top of that, and more important for this post, the owner has been quite generous and has a box full of cool clothes so we can try out his stuff.
The hat, shirt, pants, and gloves are all from MadHouse 88. Lets start from the top. The hat is a close-fitting Jeep Cap and comes in three different colors: gray, green, and red. Its easiest to wear with no hair underneath, so a skin with hair drawn on would probably come in really handy. If you don’t have one, it covers enough of your head most people wouldn’t give it a second thought. Its relatively easy to resize so long as the top of your head is generally circular. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Express: "Vivant Bronze Newbie" skin by CJ Carnot (Fleur) from GNUbie.
Post Category: Boots, Gloves, Grunge, Hats, Jackets, Jeans, Madhouse 88, Mechanism, Rosemar, Shirts
June 17th, 2008 at 03:50amExpress Zenovka
I don’t care how cut up they are, they’re currently my favourite pair of jeans and I’m going to wear them. They’ve got a lot of life left in them and they’re comfortable and they’re so London. The Union Jack on the front is ok, innit? But the London Underground logo on the back pocket is well bad. And I’ve washed the things so many times that the reds and blues are just faded enough. But the best part — you ready for this? — the best part of all is I can wear ‘em with anything. ‘Cos they’re actually two jeans in one. Low risers, for sure, you’ll see them in the other photos, but these are the high risers. Both in the same folder, pick whichever suits your top. Safe. They’re handmade for you by Maruko Sakigake of WMD — how can you not love a company named Weird Monkey Design? They come in lots of colours and designs; mine are Ronin London Edition; L$199 for the two pairs. There’s also a plain blue set for the special knock-down of L$50. Go get ‘em. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Jacket | Friends List: No
Notes: On Mr. Oh: Nora Entice - Hunter Almond by Sezmra Svarog (Nora BodySkins & Fashion). "Jared" hair in faded black by Elikapeka Tiramisu (ETD). "Arach" glasses with scripted frames and lenses by Nibb Tardis (primOptic). Murphy shoes in black by Fallingwater Cellardoor (Shiny Things). Basic Thermals (tops) in white and dark gray by Starley Thereian (Moderno).
Post Category: Casual, Grunge, Jackets, Jeans, Pants, Shirts, Urban, WMD
June 16th, 2008 at 09:19amMr. Oh
Izumiya is a wonderful store that I’ve been meaning to post about but never got around to actually doing it. Till now that is. I mentioned one item in an earlier post, but Izumi Homewood’s work deserve so much more attention than that.
Izumiya consists of mutually complementing halves. The second floor is all freebies and dollarbies. There are accessories, shirts, pants, hats(with hair), a suit, and even poses to be found up there. Creamy Cooljoke, of Free*style, and I coincidentally discovered this store at the same time, and she (unlike me) already covered the freebie side of things, esp. the dollarbie suit. So I’ll focus on the other half, the only slightly more expensive first floor.
Downstairs, prices range between 5L and 70L. Items range from pendants, hats, and hair to belts, bags, jackets. My favorite part, however, are the prepackaged outfits.
(more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Express: "brown gray" eyes available from Freebie Eyes Package (House of Zen).
Post Category: Belleza, Designer Reviews, Freebies, Grunge, Hair, Izumiya, Kalnins, Outfits, Skins, Urban, booN
June 13th, 2008 at 06:12amExpress Zenovka
So, when I made that horribly long post a week or two back I said I’d hoped I hadn’t forgotten anything. I did. But don’t worry, forgetting made this post a lot better. I probably wasted just about all my luck on lucky chairs, but I managed to grab three E’s from two chairs in a span of 24 hours while I was at two stores.
So what I forgot was the Camo Tank from F.A.T. Designz that I picked up a few weeks ago. I only remembered the tank when I received a reminder that F.A.T. Designz was celebrating its first birthday with a weekend-long party. The part I find coolest is that the designer, Alfred Kabuki, has pushed his designs back into real life as well. Which means you can tell the real world what you do to the dj’s wife just like in SL. On top of having relatively reasonable prices (most products from my glance last weekend in the 80 to 110L range) the store also has a lucky chair and camper chairs for extra free stuff. Both switch between various products. I happened to see an “E” on the chair and received the RAW I pants when I checked to see if the tank was still out. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Express: "Andrew Cream" skin and "Plaid Boxers (red)" by Garbage Prototype (Random Industries) from GNUbie. Eyes made using template by newbie_template Linden. "Co-Sneakers male - plaid red" by Alexa Soyer (Filigreemotion).
Post Category: Accessories, Black Maria, F.A.T. Designz, Freebies, Grunge, Hair, Jeans, Shirts, Tattoos
April 23rd, 2008 at 08:36amExpress Zenovka
“They say the city of Kalico was once an industrial hub, where most people in the country congregated, worked, and lived. I, personally, find that extremely damn hard to believe anyone came to this city because they wanted to. They came because they had to. They came because everything was here. Everywhere else had nothing! Nothing at all! It’s like someone decided to slap every technological, social, and business aspect of living into one giant concrete hell. We don’t know much about what life was like before ‘it’ happened, but we definitely know what ‘it’ is. Everyone does. It’s the stuff of stories that parents would tell their little kittens so that they would sleep at night. But ‘it’ definitely happened, and ‘it’ destroyed everything.” – So begins the roleplay info notecard for Kenny Sleeper’s new-and-in-progress “Kalico City.” I was familiar with some of Kenny’s emo/neko/punk designs from his shop Kalico Kreations, and Aidan featured some of his designs in a previous post, but his new venture sounded intriguing (although I find I don’t have enough time to devote the amount that serious RP calls for). When he mentioned that he had also been creating some new designs so players can trick themselves out in style, it was clear that a visit to Kalico City was called for. Who knew what grungy, post-apocalyptic wonders would await? (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "David" Entice for Men skin by Sezmra Svarog (Nora BodySkins). "Skye" hair by Mystikal Faddoul (Mystikal Hair Designs). Akeyo Chucks high-tops by Akemi Yoshikawa (Akeyo).
Post Category: Accessories, Casual, Designer Reviews, Fantasy, Grunge, Jeans, Jewelry, Kalico Kreations, Neko, Shirts, Shoes, Shorts, Tattoos, Ties
April 8th, 2008 at 11:09pmRyan Darragh
Two questions for you: (1) Do you love sword & sorcery role-playing in Second Life? (2) Do you collect memorabilia from the Lord of the Rings films?
OK, yeah, me neither.
So why am I standing here in front of a map of ‘Middle Earth’ wearing clothes with names that are spelled a little like Welsh railway stations? If you have to ask, you clearly haven’t clicked the photos to enlarge them. These are beautiful beautiful clothes, detailed and rich and luxurious. I’m telling you, the role-players are better dressed than you. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Mr. Oh: Nora Entice - Hunter Almond by Sezmra Svarog (Nora BodySkins & Fashion). "Rei" hair in silver by Orange Meili (Discord).
Post Category: Accessories, Boots, Coats, Costumes, Fantasy, Gloves, Gothic, Grunge, Husky GFX, Jackets, Novelty, Outfits, Pants, Period, Robes, Shirts
March 23rd, 2008 at 11:37pmMr. Oh
Tonktastic is one of those stores not many people seem to know. In fact, to my big surprise I noticed that none of the men’s fashion blogs I visit ever reviewed one of Tonk Tomcat’ s items before. For me it all started when I was looking for a trenchcoat. I found the perfect one at Tonktastic several months ago and since then I have returned there regularly to spend my hard earned lindens.
A few days ago I noticed that under the banner New, he had placed three types of Biker Boots. Considering that I spent my first 3 months in Second Life in a biker bar, I decided I just had to have these. When I mentioned to Tonk that I wanted to review the boots, he was very enthusiastic and immediately gave me a free pair of the Xtreme version.
And if you’re like me, you love anything extreme. Either way, the boots are released in three versions. Or 2 versions really, of which one in 2 colors. First off you have the Xtreme version which I’m covering in this review, only available in black. These are based on a basic biker boot, but have additional belts and buckles. It gives them a slightly gothy look in my mind.
The other version is a standard biker boot, available in black and in brown. They look like the Xtreme version without the belts. Each version shares the huge amount of detail and sense of quality Tonk claims to strive for in all his items. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Daman: "Nora Entice - Hunter Espresso" skin (Nora Fashions & Bodyskins). Mishima gloves (GearShift). StainD Black Beater (FORM). =BG= Highwayman Black Biker (Brutal Gear). Industrial Piercing Collection (DEEKS). "Jet - Sterling Midnight" hair (Calico Creations).
Post Category: Gothic, Grunge, New Items, Shoes, Tonktastic
December 15th, 2007 at 03:02amDaman Tenk
The grown-ups who remember things from Before call their place the Wastelands. He and his friends grew up in it, played in it, staged their mock battles in it. They just call it the Junkyard. And the way the grown-ups all grumble about how bad things are–what’s so bad? The Junkyard is full of things to play with, and smash, and burn. Amazing things, some that look like great metal birds…why? Maybe there’s not always enough food to go around, but nobody ever dies from hunger. Not any more, not for a long time. Things are getting better, really. If you think about it.
The grown-ups say such strange things, especially when they think the children aren’t listening. What’s a madmax, anyway? Why do their voices sound so funny when they talk about it? “Just like madmax, without the cars.” What does that mean? No one will say. He does know what a car is. He has seen them in the Junkyard, rusted-out metal boxes. He has pulled off their round shoes to burn, or sometimes to make shoes for himself. Not that he really needs them–his feet are tough. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "David" Entice for Men skin by Sezmra Svarog (Nora BodySkins). "Nikki" hair by Mystikal Faddoul (Mystikal Hair Designs).
Post Category: Accessories, BareRose Tokyo, Fantasy, Grunge, New Items, Novelty, Outfits, Pants, Shirts
October 8th, 2007 at 08:19pmRyan Darragh
I admit it! I’m a shameless child of the 80’s…
MTV played music videos. Reality shows were unheard of. MTV played (OxO) music videos. Reality shows were unheard of. Everybody had hair up to there (holds hands well over head). Now that I think about it, that’s where the hole in the ozone layer came from…my sister spraying her hair into a wave of epic proportions.
Said sister, name of binary1oh gives the author a look affectionately known as ‘hairy eyeball’.
Back when the Transformers were cel-drawn animated cartoons and took over my afternoons. Long before computer animation and of course, our Second Life and all of its residents…
Ripped jeans that were airbrushed on. A worn button-down shirt over your favorite rock band or cartoon t-shirt. The mashed-up hat worn low. The weirdest collection of bracelets and jewelry I could find… (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Post Category: Accessories, Barnes Boutique, Boneflower Design, Designers, Freebies, Gritty Kitty, Grunge, Hair, Hats, Jewelry, Mhaijik Things, Outfits, Pants, Shirts, Yummy
September 26th, 2007 at 07:03pmMaxmillianDArgent Ferraris
Those of you who have been following along for a while know that I’m a whore for long coats. It is arguably both a gift and a curse. Fortunately, the offerings of a variety of talented SL designers have made it possible for me to feel good about my addiction, if not overcome it. The new “Iron Cross” Long Coat (L$500) at Civvies is something of a cousin to Posy’s earlier Road Agent Coat, although with different coloring and finishing details. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: Yes
Notes: On Ryan:FORM Skin by Zabitan Assia (FORM). "Drift" hair by Jesseaitui Petion (Aitui).
Post Category: Boots, Casual, Civvies, Coats, Fantasy, Grunge, Hats, New Items, Outfits
September 21st, 2007 at 07:56pmRyan Darragh
The Angry Monkey product selection was brought to my attention by Saeya Nyanda when I was looking for outfit components to support a review I was working on for Steam Powered Industries’ Jump Boots. Upon entering the store one immediately notices two things: (1) the level of texture realism embodied in the work and (2) the salvage yardian feel of the goods. I walked away with the Splinter Bracers and a lasting impression of the calibre of goods - the Junkyard Patriot flag being one of the most striking alternative accessories I’ve seen.
The quality of Vas Legend’s work speaks for itself. In fact, when I donned the pieces from his his newer “Distruzio”, “Road Warrior” and hobo-esque releases and wandered around the grid many people instantly reacted to the pieces. “Great gear” and “That is some ding dang diggity dong cool sh*t you have on!” were some of the comments aimed at the gear. If they weren’t strapped on tightly someone would have walked away with ‘em ([21:18] Aenea Nori touches Cat’s banjo. [21:18] Catero Revolution slaps Aenea’s hand).
Not too long ago Mr. Legend was kind enough to entertain some questions about his store, his content creation philosophies and his latest releases. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Catero: Skin, Justin - Dark, Aftermath (The Good Life / Avant Scofield); Hair, Sleepwalk Hair in black (Aitui / Jesseaitui Petion); Shirt, Brawler Tank - Steel (Truth Designs / Truth Hawks); Pants, Patched Jeans - Brown ([Civvies] Wearables / Posy Trudeau); Watch, Time by Kari - Male *not yet released* ({Kari} / Menno Ophelia); Cigarette, Lucky Sticks - Slim & Mild (Sakura's Smoke Shop /sakura Jannings )
Post Category: Accessories, Angry Monkey, Boots, Fantasy, Gloves, Grunge, New Items, Steampunk
September 9th, 2007 at 12:15amCatero Revolution
In 1949 George Orwell’s cautionary tale against totalitarianism and democratic socialism was published. Within the world of the novel 1984, social and political upheaval have resulted in a dystopian future. Institutional propaganda, complete subordination to political cause, sexual oppression, concentration camps and leader worship (Big Brother) weigh down on the masses. Personal expression is a crime.
Though his main store location is influenced by the novel and movie, Broder Kubrick’s creations attempt to break away from the standard issue to provide his own brand of gritty clothing and accessories in BroGear. The derelict shop is situated within an isolated, stone-set market amid large Stalin-esque banners of Broder, His Supreme Imminence, that warn “Big Broder is Watching” and “War is Peace; Freedom is Slavery; Ignorance is Strength”. As shoppers peruse the goods within, loudspeakers intermittently blaze with news of wartime progress. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Catero: Skin, Dante - Ebony (Naughty Designs / Lost Thereian); Hair, Dare in raven sunset (Naughty Designs / Lost Thereian); Tattoo, Ariki in green ink (Aitui Tattoo & Piercing / Jesseaitui Petion); Scratches, Stitches & Wounds (Kψoot Army / Saeya Nyanda); Pants, Bloody Psycho Pants (NIHILISMOST / Nihil Graves); Belt, Jamaica Flag Belt ([Renegade] / Kaejo DaSilva); Glasses, Aviators (Happy Bivouac / Penny Patton); Backpack, Military Brat Backpack - Black Label (BroGear / Broder Kubrick); Necklace, Tooth Necklace (BroGear / Broder Kubrick); Cuff, POET Arm Band (BroGear / Broder Kubrick); Watch, ROGUE Military Brat Watch (BroGear / Broder Kubrick)
Post Category: Accessories, Boots, BroGear, Grunge, New Items, Overviews, Urban
August 12th, 2007 at 06:45pmCatero Revolution
I’ve browsed at the BareRose Tokyo shop before, but must confess this is the first time I’ve taken something home. These new Daruma Tanks by designer June Dion caught my eye, though, and I was really curious about how the whole outfit would go together for me, so I grabbed them and ran. I was also curious about the name “Daruma,” so I did a little research (Google is my friend). Daruma is the Japanese name for Bodhidharma, the founder and first patriarch of Zen. A tradition still observed today is that of Daruma dolls, also known as dharma dolls. These are round, hollow Japanese wish dolls with no arms or legs, modeled after Bodhidharma, who is said to have lost the use of his arms and legs after meditating, seated in a cave, for nine years. The Daruma has come to be symbolic of optimism, persistence, and strong determination. A Daruma doll is traditionally given to someone starting a new venture, celebrating a birthday, or at the beginning of a New Year. At the start of an endeavor, one of the doll’s empty eyes is painted in with black and a wish is made for good luck. The other eye is painted when the goal is reached. Hey, I bet you weren’t expecting a cultural history lesson today! 
(more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: Antonio (Pale) skin by Funk Schnook (FNKY!). "Poynter" hair by Liam Oliver (Armidi). Henkei 07 tattoo by Zabitan Assia (FORM). Black Worn-In Workboot by Posy Trudeau (Civvies). Death God special edition necklace by Keishii Roo (Goth1c0). Stone of Heaven ring by Yukirei Greene.
Post Category: BareRose Tokyo, Casual, Grunge, New Items, Outfits, Pants, Shirts
July 25th, 2007 at 06:53pmRyan Darragh
No. A hole would be something. This was Nothing. And it got bigger, and bigger…
–The Neverending Story
The menace of the all-destroying Nothing imbues the new trenchcoat by Beckenbauer Productions. Worn sleek and dark, or bulky and ominous, it’s a coat worthy of Sephiroth, Vampire Hunter D or Roland the Gunslinger. Because I am nowhere near as cool as any of those people (and because any attempt of mine to be menacing is met with giggles and pats on the head), I asked Makhai Hammerer to model the coat for us, and he graciously (if forebodingly) assented. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Makhai: CMFF Photoskin Ultra: Crow by Chip Midnight. Lando Dreadlocks by Skyshop YMNY HOC. Chronicles pants and gloves by DoC Eldritch. Goth Rocker boots by Feri Beckenbauer.
Post Category: Beckenbauer Productions, Coats, Dressy, Gothic, Grunge, New Items
July 18th, 2007 at 07:11pmAidan Recreant
Before the age of homogenization and micro-machinery, before the tyrannous efficiency of internal combustion and the domestication of electricity, lived beautiful, monstrous machines that lived and breathed and exploded unexpectedly at inconvenient moments. It was a time where art and craft were united, where unique wonders were invented and forgotten, and punks roamed the streets, living in squats and fighting against despotic governance through wit, will and wile. — Quoted from: Steampunk Magazine
I will admit that I don’t know much about Steampunk culture. I had never even heard of it before coming to Second Life. But then again, I’d never heard of Pony Girls, Furries, Gor and a host of other cultures and sub-cultures. SL can be such an educational and culturally enriching experience.
My days of living in partial ignorance of this particular community ended when Disembodied Hand introduced me to his Jump Boots (750L) - footwear scultpted from rusted out parts salvaged from a scrap yard. Dis gave me a lesson in cultural dynamics. “Well, there are two major factions of Steampunk, actually. The ‘true’ Steampunk which is 1940’s-ranged classical machinery Steampunk. Literal meaning there. Back when there really was just the steam engine to work off for mechanics. The flip side there is more what we do: the Post-apoc Steampunk. Basically, imagine culture as it is now failing and electricity takes it in the ass ’cause someone wakes up some day and goes ‘F**K IT, let’s make it rain nuclear winter on this piece,’ and we have to resort to old technology again - blacksmithing, steam engines etc.” (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Catero: Skin, Antonio Pale - Stubble (Funk Schnook / FNKY!); Pants, Camo Cargo Pants (Penny Patton / Happy Biouvac); Jacket, Steampunk Long Coat in brown (Posy Trudeau / [CIVVIES] Wearables); Hat, Steampunk Top Hat (Posy Trudeau / [CIVVIES] Wearables); Belt, Caution Tape Belt (Jemca Arizona / [The Syndicate]); Bracers, Splinter Bracers (Vas Legend / Angry Monkey); Eye wear, Goggles from Zombie Dreads Hair (Noam Sprocket / Gritty Kitty); Cigarette, Lucky Sticks - Slim & Mild (Sakura's Smoke Shop /sakura Jannings ); Scratches, Stitches and Wounds (Kψoot Army / Saeya Nyanda)
Post Category: Boots, Fantasy, Grunge, New Items, Steam Powered Industries, Steampunk
July 12th, 2007 at 06:30pmCatero Revolution
I recently came across designer Yukirei Greene’s line of high-quality, high-prim jewelry and accessories and, um, went kind of crazy in her shop. Yukirei has an extensive and growing collection of pieces for both men and women. I’m featuring here just a few pieces that I couldn’t leave without buying for myself. Here you see the Claw Necklace (L$180), an elaborate construction of leather-wrapped cord and fine silver chain. A gleaming ebony claw is suspended from the chain by a delicate filigree cap. The shiny leather cord has an unusual double-loop construction that’s bound to catch a few eyes, and the claw element couldn’t be further from the Seventies versions it should by all rights resemble. You know the ones I’m talking about. Your uncle probably wore one. Mine did. 
(more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: FORM skin, Bishamonten Beater, 030b Jeans and Henkei 07 tattoo by Zabitan Assia (FORM). "Poynter" hair by Liam Oliver (Armidi).
Post Category: Accessories, Designer Reviews, Dressy, Fantasy, Gothic, Grunge, Jewelry, New Items, Yukirei Greene
July 10th, 2007 at 07:22pmRyan Darragh
Previous Posts
So, overall it’s been a pretty good week. As I shared earlier, Dragontat Zagato has stepped back into the SL fashion world with his new collection at Deserted. And, oh by the way, he mentioned that he’s also reopening Brief Encounter this weekend, with new underwear designs and a Halloween collection! So there’s that as well. As if all this weren’t enough, at the Deserted opening shindig I got the chance to chat with Zabitan Assia—it had been way too long—and learned that he too has some new designs burning a creative hole in his inventory. Like DT’s, Zab’s tees have long been among my favorites. I love their dark, rich color palettes and the subtle intricacy of their design work, which is at least occasionally inspired by anime and manga.
