Posts filed under 'Novelty'
He’s making a list, checking it twice
Gonna find out who’s naughty and nice
Santa Claus is coming to town!
You’ve almost certainly heard the Christmas song “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town.” If you’re of a certain age, you probably remember well from the childhood the old Rankin-Bass holiday TV special of the same name. What’s important here is Santa’s role as judge, jury and (metaphorical) executioner, at least as far as Christmas gifts are concerned. Who wants a lump of coal in his stocking?
You do remember that key section of the lyrics, don’t you? It actually sounds kind of scary, when you think about it. I mean, what, Santa knows everything? All the stuff I’ve done this year? Even that one thing? I only did that once, I swear. Okay, two or three times. But still, what happened to my right to privacy? I still deserve presents, don’t I? I’m a good boy, I am! (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in world: Yes | Review copy: No | Friends list: No
Notes: On Ryan: "MSkin Natural Light" by Crushed Clarity (Atomic). "Free hair to wear with hats" by swaffette Firefly (SF Design).
Post Category: A:S:S, Boots, Costumes, Freebies, Hats, Holiday, Latex, New Items, Novelty, Outfits, Pants, Shirts
December 21st, 2009 at 11:00pmRyan Darragh
As they pulled you out of the oxygen tent
You asked for the latest party…
Tod Browning’s freak you was
Some time back, blog reader Miron Jarman emailed to me some pictures of himself in truly fabulous glam-rock drag—it was oh so very “Velvet Goldmine.” He suggested that this look might be worth exploring for presentation here, and in true Lazy Ryan fashion I tried to recruit him for the mission. In all honesty, he had done such a good job with his own look that I felt he ought to present and take credit for it. Unfortunately, although I tried my best, he simply wasn’t able to make that commitment at the time, and left the suggestion with me. I felt like I couldn’t simply copy his look for myself, partly because it didn’t feel fair, partly because it wouldn’t be “me.” I needed to do glam my own way. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: FORM skin by Zabitan Assia (FORM).
Post Category: A:S:S, Boots, Hair, Hats, Jackets, Jewelry, Novelty, Outfits, Pants, Roleplay, SHAG, Shine
October 3rd, 2009 at 11:17amRyan Darragh
Perefim Cao is having a store-wide sale down in the vault at [OMFG]. You’ll find tons of steampunk and other themed gear for just L$1. Clothing, boots, eyes, wings, weapons, insanely detailed accessories –you name it, it’s on sale…for now.
Post Category: Asides, Freebies, Novelty, OMFG, Period, Roleplay, Sales, Steampunk
January 12th, 2009 at 10:33amRyan Darragh
You can pick up this “Festive Anniversary Party Hat” as a freebie at Grim Bros. It’s packed full of crazy detailing you’ll have to discover for yourself. Be sure to check for other freebies while you’re there–yesterday it was a Happy New Year 2009 hat, but today it’s a pair of chain-drive skates.
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Kyle" skin by Theoden Ling (SUBARU). "Czech Mate" hair by Noam Sprocket (Gritty Kitty). Revenant Suit by Allegory Malaprop (Schadenfreude). Geeked Out Scientist Glasses by Cutea Benelli (Grim Bros.).
Post Category: Asides, Fantasy, Freebies, Grim Bros., Hats, Novelty
January 1st, 2009 at 04:08pmRyan Darragh
I won’t argue with you. The juxtaposition may indeed seem odd. Skinkie Winkler’s new “Esprit de Neige” (Spirit of Snow) men’s necklace is is a stunning piece of simple, icy elegance, eminently suitable for dressy, even formal holiday occasions. And I’m wearing it with…antlers?
Yes. Let me tell you why. There is, as the saying goes, a method to my madness.
I think we sometimes worry too much about “properly coordinating” our clothing, jewelry, hairstyle, accessories, toys and whatnot when we put ourselves together. Now, I’m not trying to discourage you from striving for sartorial harmony rather than chaos. But there’s also nothing wrong with whimsy, or with occasionally wearing, let’s say, a more “formal” piece of jewelry with a more “casual” outfit, just to let it really stand out and shine. Once you understand certain guiding principles, then you can begin bending them, even if you prefer not to break them outright. Hey, this is SL, not RL–it’s supposed to be fun! (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Alex" skin by thoden Ling (SUBARU). "Live Jazz" hair by Kumii Yoshikawa (69). Sexy Buttoned Down Shirt with Sculpts by Jesseaitui Petion (Aitui). Boots Cut Fit Denims by AIR Winx (ARGRACE).
Post Category: Accessories, Dressy, Freebies, Holiday, Jewelry, New Items, Novelty, Schadenfreude, flirt
December 23rd, 2008 at 05:52pmRyan 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, 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
One attended a private school, of course, nothing so vulgar as going to an ordinary establishment of learning. Not for one and one’s friends the normal education — insipid, cliched quotations, incomplete sentences, and individuals who can’t detect the minute yet compelling differences between SL and RL. No; Latin, rugby and advanced studies were the order of the day. The food one received in halls was a disgrace, of course, but at least one was not distressed by one’s school uniforms, since they were beautfully designed by Morphine Janick of SweetestGoodbye.
One is here wearing SchoolBoy in Mint and Grey. The wonderful white trousers have prims that look like bunched up cuffs… because dear old ma-Ma wanted to give one lots of growing room. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: No
Notes: On Mr. Oh: Nora Entice - Hunter Cinnamon Mature by Sezmra Svarog (Nora BodySkins & Fashion). Perry hair in grey by Truth Hawkes (Truth). Twinz glasses by Nibb Tardis (primOptic). Scratch shoes in black by Eponymous Trenchmouth(JCS).
Post Category: Casual, Novelty, Outfits, SweetestGoodbye
November 2nd, 2008 at 11:55pmMr. Oh
Although I had some other stuff lined up for Halloween coverage here, I fear this will be my last article for Halloween 2008 (tomorrow being the 31st and all). I guess my plans were more than usually ambitious, and I’ve been slammed with RL work and family stuff the last several days, which has kept me away from SL more than I expected. Such is life. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: FORM skin (pale, with eyeline) by Zabitan Assia (FORM). "Sway" hair by Jesseaitui Petion (Aitui). Sylar Coat by Krius Misfit (SiniStyle Design). Old Shoes by Fallingwater Cellardoor (Shiny Things).
Post Category: Accessories, Costumes, Fantasy, Gothic, Hats, Holiday, Novelty, SiniStyle Design
October 30th, 2008 at 04:24pmRyan Darragh
Hello; my name is Mr. Oh and I’m a Sparroholic. But I have to show you this suit, even though Ryan has just written about Thorns and in his article mentioned how addicted I am.
Entropy is the latest triumph in hyasynth Tiramisu’s efforts to bring beautifully textured full-length suits to the men and women of Second Life. (As usual, please click the photos for more detail.)
The piece you’ll notice first is the jacket. It’s floor-length, with a flexi-prim that flows nicely when you walk or turn or dance. There are also prim attachment sleeve-cuffs. What makes the jacket so desirable, though, is the way the light is reflected and absorbed by luxurious cloth with its wonderful and intricate patterning. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Mr. Oh: Nora Entice - Hunter Cinnamon Mature by Sezmra Svarog (Nora BodySkins & Fashion). \"Sleek\" freebie hair in nickel by Elikapeka Tiramisu (ETD). Finesse glasses by Nibb Tardis (primOptic). Dublin Boots in black by Eponymous Trenchmouth(JCS).
Post Category: Dressy, Fantasy, Formal, Gothic, Jackets, New Items, Novelty, Outfits, Pants, Period, Roleplay, Shirts, Silent Sparrow, Steampunk, Suits
October 26th, 2008 at 09:20amMr. Oh
When Plywood Man rezzed at the Welcome Center, it was like being born. He had no clear memory of anything that might have been before, but suddenly he found himself immersed in a world of sights, sounds and lag. It was breathtaking…or would have been, if he breathed. He tried mightily to communicate with those around him–beautiful creatures with skin and faces!–but found himself frustrated and at least temporarily stymied by his lack of fingers. Nobody seemed to understand his attempts to chat. “HHHHHiiiii ttttthhhhheeeeerrrrreeeee,,,,, wwwwwhhhhhaaaaattttt””’sssss yyyyyooooouuuuurrrrr nnnnnaaaaammmmmeeeee?????” earned him no response, unless some of the chorus of “hey baby” and “how you doin shmexy?!?” was intended for him.
Having quickly lost interest with the mundane pursuits of the other newbies (for that is what they were), Plywood Man set off in search of he knew not what, but he felt certain that he would know it when he found it. Thanks to the Search button, and his quick mastery of the art of keyword selection (and not-so-quick mastery of typing with the tips of his hand-pads), he soon found himself at the portal of the Ivory Tower, that grand repository of SL prim knowledge. It was there, after working his way through the elementary tutorials, that he learned the central, inescapable truth of his existence: out of prims was he made, and unto prims would he return, at the end of his days. Such knowledge can be difficult to confront, but Plywood Man bore it with stoicism and equanimity. No philosopher he, but he did know when worrying about something would do no good. (more…)
Disclosure: Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Post Category: Avatars, Costumes, Fantasy, Novelty, Peter Stindberg
October 23rd, 2008 at 12:32pmRyan Darragh
Especially now that I’m no longer in the competition, I figured why not discuss the “freebie” version of my entry to the Muism Contest. The majority of the items will of course come from Muism, but a bunch of others come from other spots.
To figure out what to wear, I decided to go through all the Muism freebies I’d collected over time. My first Muism product I ever tried on was their Xmas gift from last year, a red suit. I don’t get to wear that suit often enough. Next, I put on their racing jacket (which is still available, btw — it was recently added to the archives again). See, I told you it’d be handy in a costume 
.Anyway, I noticed a bit of a common trend — Muism seems to like red in freebies. Perhaps I’m (actually I know I am) taking a bad sample space, but I decided to try on a few other red things. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Express: "Andrew Cream" skin by Garbage Prototype (Random Industries) from GNUbie.
On "Ryan": "chimp" eyes, skin, and shape by shin Mathilde (=about=). Akeyo Chucks high-tops by Akemi Yoshikawa (Akeyo). "Nick" hair (tinted) by machang Pichot (AOHARU).
Post Category: Accessories, Costumes, Eyewear, Filigreemotion, Freebies, GNUbie Store, GuRL 6, Hair, Jackets, Muism, Novelty, Shirts, Shoes
April 27th, 2008 at 10:21pmExpress Zenovka
If you’re in the market for clever prim accessories to complete an outfit (or push it over the top), you could do far worse than to check out the creations of Jonny Petrova at his shop, Endless Nameless Designs. His overall style seems to be kind of generalized urban gritty punk, but there are some truly beautiful and classy items in the mix too. For no particular reason–okay, actually I worked everything around the belt–I’ve chosen to focus on a few of his pieces that fit into a “music” theme.
Jonny’s beautifully detailed Fret Belt (L$75 L$175), shown at right, comes in four sizes or configurations: male, female, giant and tiny. It’s moddable, so you can resize and fit according to your own preferences, but it’s nice to have a choice of starting points–I don’t know about you, but this simplifies my life. The main loop of the belt is detailed to resemble a guitar’s fretboard, complete with frets and strings, with the buckle assembly standing in for the guitar’s headstock. This is a gorgeous design, perfect for the rock star in your life, and at 222 prims (I think I’ve got that right) it joins the pantheon of ultra-high-prim belts in my inventory. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Most | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: FORM skin by Zabitan Assia (FORM). "Billie" hair by Aemilia Case (Philotic Energy). Sugoi Skull of a bastard Neko tee by Maruko Sakigake (WMD). Jeans 101 by Jonathan Hugo (Fuse). Kalico Neko Ears by Kenny Sleeper (Kalico Kreations).
Post Category: Accessories, Casual, Endless Nameless Designs, New Items, Novelty
April 24th, 2008 at 09:10amRyan Darragh
So, Muism dropped a freebie. It’s been blogged a few times. Honestly, I don’t like it much. The flexi prim bottom to the jacket looks a bit weird. While the prims come in a few sizes and are modifiable, they are no mod and the collar and tail are linked, limiting the proportions of the item so there’s a chance you can’t fit them correctly. However — its a freebie, and beggars can’t be choosers. Maybe you’ll need it for a costume. Who knows? I’m wearing it with the sleeves rolled up, but you can wear it with sleeves rolled down as well. The non-prim part can be worn on the jacket or shirt layer. Grab it by joining the Muism group and looking in the archives.
Anyway, I’m wearing more than just the jacket. Under it I’m wearing a white tank from Draconic Kiss, available for free in the far back corner of the store. It comes in four colors: white, black, red and blue. There’s also a tshirt pack with the same colors too. The back corner seems like a discount corner in general, there is other stuff for relatively cheap back there. All are available on the shirt layer only, which limits their usefulness. However, they do fit under jackets in a pinch and are quite useful like that, and the price can’t be beat. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Express: "Andrew Cream" skin by Garbage Prototype (Random Industries) from GNUbie. Eyes made using template by newbie_template Linden.
Post Category: Draconic Kiss, Freebies, Gloves, GuRL 6, Hair, Izumiya, Jackets, Jeans, Muism, Novelty, SF Design, Shirts, Shoes
April 13th, 2008 at 08:55amExpress Zenovka
Men’s liberation time! The extremely talented aoimizuno Meili of LPP (le petit prince) created these wonderful Art Deco / Valve-Tech attachments with women in mind. In fact, they’re just a small part of a collection called ‘Digital Doll.’ But most of the items in the series aren’t really gender-specific and they are gorgeous.
There are several pieces to talk about in the first photo (as usual, be sure to click on it to enlarge). Let’s start with the Art Deco Headset (180L$). I don’t want to know how many prims are in there; I probably can’t count that high. The detail is amazing, but it’s the overall feel of smooth clean parallel precision that will win you over. The headphones attach to your ear, so your nose is free for your glasses. The glasses I’m wearing look like part of the set, but in fact they’re my trusty old primOptic Arctics, with the colour scripting utilized to match the LPP stuff (set frame colour 1 to ’sienna’ and frame colour 2 to ‘dark grey’ if you’re following along at home). (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | 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). "Arctic" glasses with scripted frames and lenses by Nibb Tardis (primOptic). Crossroads in Blue by Raven Pennyfeather (RFyre).
Post Category: Accessories, Casual, LPP, Neko, Novelty, Period
March 30th, 2008 at 01:25pmMr. Oh
Phew.. Easter is over. Should be good till the next giant holiday.. is it Mother’s Day? Anyway, back to business as normal.. or business I forgot about because I was too busy egg hunting.
Adam n Eve recently opened a new boutique at Genesis for a line of high class fancy clothes. In order to celebrate the opening, sachi Vixen decided to put up two freebies — a polka dot dress for the ladies and polka dot shirt for the guys. Now when I saw the shirt the first thing that came to mind was disco. Unfortunately, I’m a bit too young to remember disco, so I decided to inspire myself with the closest thing I do know to ridiculous dancing and outfits — A Night at the Roxbury. More specifically, my speakers were thumping Haddaway for a half hour as I put this outfit together. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: Some
Notes: On Express:"Dante tone 1" skin by sachi Vixen (Adam n Eve) from Skin Fair 2008. "wild_short" hair by DMAT Allen (mod's hair Paris). dark purple eyes available from Freebie Eyes Package (House of Zen).
Post Category: Adam n Eve, Freebies, GNUbie Store, Inca Temple, Jewelry, Novelty, Pants, Savvy Avvy, Shirts, Shoes
March 27th, 2008 at 09:33amExpress Zenovka
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
This is the second part of a two-part designer review of Kavar Cleanslate’s clothing designs, available at Exile. You can read the first part here.
Let’s just pick up where we left off, hey? Up next is “London Punk” (L$550), an outfit with a distinctive look that for most needs no further description (but pictures are always helpful, so you’re getting some). In the box you get two jackets (one with tartan-and-black sleeves, one sleeveless), a barely-there “spidertrap” shirt, red tartan pants with prim side pockets, black facial jewelry, plus collar, belts and various armbands and legbands. The facial jewelry is linked as a single attachment, so you will need to use Edit Linked Parts to position the various pieces precisely for your avatar–I found this to be fairly simple. This is another of Kavar’s “deluxe sets,” and in addition to the clothing items you also get his “Revenge” mohawk hair style, shown here in blonde with dark tips. This style so reminds me of a guy I knew in high school, who used large quantities of egg whites, dyes and bleach to get his hair to look just like this. I admired his dedication. Right-click-and-wear is much simpler. 
(more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Antonio" skin by Funk Schnook (FNKY!). Stealth Rigger Boots by Eponymous Trenchmouth (JCS Shoes). Boho Sandals by Fallingwater Cellardoor (Shiny Things).
Post Category: Casual, Costumes, Designer Reviews, Exile, Fantasy, Novelty, Outfits
March 1st, 2008 at 05:59pmRyan Darragh
Just so you’ll know, I do occasionally learn from my own experiences. Although I’m embarking here on an overall designer review (rather than a specific new release), I will endeavor not to make again the tactical error I made when I reviewed Gaia Goodnight’s Darkstar Designs earlier this month, namely the ill-advised decision to include umpteen different outfits and items in a single post. And don’t get it wrong–the temptation to do so again with Kavar Cleanslate’s designs at Exile was very, very strong. However, I’m confident that you are a gentle and patient people, and you’re willing to accept delayed rather than instant gratification. If not, you can just TP over to the shop and check things out for yourself. 
Kavar mentioned to me that he’s really into themed outfits and costumes right now, and I want to cover a couple of his new releases for you here. Imagine the possibilities for themed nights at your favorite club! Hmm, sometimes there are cash prizes…I’m just sayin’. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Antonio" skin by Funk Schnook (FNKY!). Old Shoes by Fallingwater Cellardoor (Shiny Things).
Post Category: Accessories, Casual, Costumes, Designer Reviews, Dressy, Exile, Hair, Hats, Jeans, New Items, Novelty, Outfits, Pants, Shirts, Ties, Vests
February 27th, 2008 at 07:27pmRyan Darragh
I’m speechless.
150L$;
BareRose Tokyo.
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Mr. Oh: Nora Entice - Hunter Almond by Sezmra Svarog (Nora BodySkins & Fashion). "Jared" hair in white blackened by Elikapeka Tiramisu (ETD).
Post Category: Accessories, BareRose Tokyo, Coats, Costumes, Fantasy, Gloves, Jackets, Novelty, Outfits, Pants, Period, Steampunk, Wings
February 25th, 2008 at 01:00amMr. Oh
It’s been months since I showed you around hyasynth Tiramisu’s Silent Sparrow collection for men. Since then, she’s released several wonderful outfits for men and remodelled her sim and shop. I’m told by reliable sources that it’s totally amazing if you use the Windlight viewer. There’s a big reopening party planned for this weekend.
The most fabulous of the new releases is a new steampunk era suit called Sprocket. It comes in 6 flavours; I chose ‘dusk,’ the purple one (but couldn’t resist some extra colours, as you’ll see). The folder contained a jacket garment with prim jacket tails for men and for women, two pairs of trousers, two shirts (on the undershirt layer) with dusk-coloured ties/cravats painted on, and a dusk-coloured waistcoat/vest (on the shirt layer). (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Mr. Oh: Nora Entice - Hunter Almond by Sezmra Svarog (Nora BodySkins & Fashion). "Jared" hair in white blackened by Elikapeka Tiramisu (ETD). "Twinz" glasses with scripted frames and lenses by Nibb Tardis (primOptic).
Post Category: Dressy, Formal, Gothic, New Items, Novelty, Outfits, Pants, Period, Shirts, Silent Sparrow, Suits, Vests
February 22nd, 2008 at 04:33pmMr. Oh
We all go a little crazy sometimes. It even happens to me. Fortunately in this case I’m not talking Norman Bates crazy; I just got a little click-happy and kept buying, and buying…and buying. I blame Posy (that’s my story, and I’m sticking with it) because she’s the one who dropped on me the landmark to Gaia Goodnight’s shop, Darkstar Designs. Hopefully this isn’t old news to everyone but me, but Gaia’s shop showcases some great design work with clear anime, steampunk and cyperbpunk influences, all at extremely reasonable prices. The beauty of this is that when you do go crazy (and you will, I say this with confidence), the effect on your L$ balance won’t be devastating. 
Unfortunately there aren’t a lot of men’s clothing designs beyond a few tees (although there are plenty of things for the ladies just across the way at Sh!t Happens), but as you’ll see I came home with hair styles and accessories enough to put together seven different looks. I may not have mixed-and-matched the way Gaia had in mind, or the way you would do, but that’s the further beauty of having such an embarrassment of riches to play with.
Let’s start kind of simple and work our way up from there. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Jack" skin by Posy Trudeau (Flesh Peddlers). Supertight Men's Tees and Filthy Canvas Pants by Posy Trudeau (Civvies). O-Ring Black Ribbon Jewelry by Mhaijik Guillaume (Mhaijik Things).
Post Category: Accessories, Boots, Cyberpunk, Darkstar Designs, Designer Reviews, Fantasy, Gloves, Hair, Novelty, Roleplay, Shirts, Steampunk
February 6th, 2008 at 04:58pmRyan Darragh
If you’re one of the many people who have been looking for something slightly stronger than off-the-rack reading glasses, but slightly less than a full-spec. iota-class blast helmet, well, my friends, Hern Worsley may have just what you’re looking for. I’m speaking of the AVZ Vision Enhancement unit, 250 lindens’ worth of high tech goodness,available at your helpful AVZ retailer today . The trapazoidal lenses look black in most lights, but are actually highly polished metal and reflect light at certain angles. The top sliver of each lens pulses whenever you’re wearing the unit, in a colour that you can select with an oral command like “/88 trim gold”. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Mr. Oh: Nora Entice - Hunter Almond by Sezmra Svarog (Nora BodySkins & Fashion). Fuwagime hair in gold-blond by hiko Nino (Happy Dispatch). With Vision Enhancement: Salamander outfit in gold by June Dion (BareRose). With TV Goggles: Red Leather shortsleeve shirt by Beryl Greenacre (Swell).
Post Category: AVZ, Accessories, Eyewear, Novelty
January 27th, 2008 at 10:51pmMr. Oh
The first thing I want you to know is that I have manfully resisted the temptation to shout, “Extra, extra, read all about it!” Except now I’ve gone and said it anyway. My apologies; apparently you’re just going to have to live with me. The second thing I want you to know is that I can’t begin to imagine where Shai gets her ideas and inspirations for her new clothing designs. In this case, one hopes it wasn’t from repeated rentals of “Newsies,” and if it was, one hopes further that this is because she’s got a thing for musicals, or Christian Bale, or whatever, and not because of its status as a modern classic, because it’s…kind of not. (Flawed as it is, I think “Swing Kids” is arguably somewhat better. Yes, I see a lot of crap movies.) Shai’s new Newsboy Outfits defy easy categorization and immediate understanding of the Why behind the What. This in no way keeps them from being a lot of fun. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: Yes
Notes: On Ryan: "Dante" skin by Lost Thereian (Naughty). "Devyn" hair by Starley Thereian (Moderno). Old Shoes by Fallingwater Cellardoor (Shiny Things).
Post Category: Casa Del Shai, Casual, New Items, Novelty, Outfits, Pants, Period, Sweaters
January 18th, 2008 at 03:29pmRyan Darragh
Although Christmas Day was fair and mild (if blustery) where I live in Los Angeles, since then it’s been just plain cold and windy. If this keeps up, this might be the first year in a long time that the weather is actively unpleasant for the Rose Parade on New Year’s Day. (The standing joke is that the parade commissioner must long ago have made a deal with the devil for good parade weather every year. Don’t believe the clear, sunny skies you see when you watch the parade on television–they’re the work of Satan! Every other day of winter is ugly and cold.) These classic “long johns” by Ichibod Etchegaray are just the thing for cold winter nights, and I’m thinking seriously about investing in some for my RL self…especially if I can find some that look like these. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Jack" skin by Posy Trudeau (Flesh Peddlers). "Nekoge" hair by hiko Nino (Happy Dispatch).
Post Category: New Items, Novelty, Period, Pyjamas, Underwear
December 27th, 2007 at 03:37pmRyan Darragh
In what threatens to become an annual tradition if he keeps it up, Dragontat Zagato has released the 2007 edition of his holiday collection of briefs and trunks at Brief Encounter. There are eight different designs this year: Blue Yule, Canes, Ho! (no puns, please), Xmas Mosaic, Naughty, Xmas Paisley, Xmas Plaid and Rudolph. As always, all designs are available both brief and trunk styles, and all are provided on both underwear and pants layers, for wear with tattoos and other layering convenience. I personally prefer the trunk style, and in my humble opinion it seems a bit more forgiving of the inevitable “tearing” at the edges as your avatar moves and assumes different poses. In fairness, pattern stretching is arguably worse on trunks as the fabric extends onto the upper leg, so it may come down to which you find less objectionable, or (imagine!) simple personal preference. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: Yes
Notes: On Ryan: "Jack" skin by Posy Trudeau (Flesh Peddlers).
Post Category: Brief Encounter, Holiday, New Items, Novelty, Underwear
December 24th, 2007 at 02:35pmRyan Darragh
Chicanery Turnbull has produced some of the quirkiest, most whimsical creations I’ve seen in SL. I have four of his bouncy-spring playground animals, and they make me smile every time I see them (okay, and ride them). In plenty of time for enjoyment throughout the Christmas season comes this collection of beautifully sculpted and textured Christmas-themed hats. I’ll start with my favorite, which has to be the decidedly traditional-and-yet-not Xmas Tree Hat I’m wearing here. As you can see, this is kind of a stealth tree, as the tree design doesn’t straight straight up from your head and so isn’t obvious from the front. Don’t be surprised if you see me wearing mine around the whole month of December. Permissions are Modify / No Copy / Transfer, so you can resize as needed and give as a gift to someone lucky. L$1,000 worth of fun for just L$100. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Antonio" skin by Funk Schnook (FNKY!). "Mess It Up" hair by Lost Thereian (Naughty). "Daru" hoodie and jeans by Iki Ikarus (Dutch Touch).
Post Category: Casual, Chicanery, Freebies, Hats, Holiday, New Items, Novelty
December 7th, 2007 at 01:10pmRyan Darragh
Preppie alert! It’s true, we cover a lot of preppy casual. What can we say? We like it. And we especially like it done tongue-in-cheek. The men’s range at Ducknipple is definitely Fortified with Irony. After leaving the shop wearing one of my new sweaters, I ran into its creator — beanster Potato. I told her I loved the sweaters, and told her I was thinking of writing about them. “…about how much they itch?” she said.
She’s only been in business a few months, but has about 5 small vendor places dotted around the grid as well as the main shop. Her specialty is retro with a dry humour. And the prices are dead reasonable. This deliberately drab olive green sweater is the first one that caught my eye. Wooly jumper plus untucked striped shirt are a single jacket-layer garment. You can’t buy it on its own. Instead it comes with a charcoal grey/black sweater of a different knit pattern: both for L$70. I liked them enough to buy some others. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Mr. Oh: Nora Entice - Hunter Almond by Sezmra Svarog (Nora BodySkins & Fashion). "Common" hair in black by hiko Nino (Happy Dispatch). "Tortoise-shell glasses" by Arcadia Asylum (Hobo freebies). Moss-coloured jeans with sculpted prim pockets by Adam Soler (Lookr).
Post Category: Casual, Ducknipple, Novelty, Period, Sweaters
December 6th, 2007 at 07:26amMr. Oh
CSI is for sissies. Here is the ruthless and inscrutable Mr. Oh on the trail of a vicious cereal killer, hunting him down with my “Heppoko” water pistol at the ready. I’m wearing “Hunters: Refined,” designed by Eternalynn Calliope, whose company is called UFonly, which stands not for Unidentified Flying Object, but for Upload Fee Only. For a mere 50L$, you get trousers, shirt ‘n’ tie on shirt layer, jacket, lower jacket “skirt” and stand-up prim collar. Besides the price, the attraction is that this is pure manga abstractions of clothes, cut directly from the comic or from a watercolour wash.
(more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Mr. Oh: Nora Entice - Hunter Almond by Sezmra Svarog (Nora BodySkins & Fashion). Freebie "Linden Labs Male Korean Avatar" hair by unknown (NCI). Scripted colour-change "Aviator 1" sunglasses by Damanios Thetan (Collection Damani). Wingtip shoes by Barnesworth Anubis (Barnesworth Boutique).
Post Category: Coats, Fantasy, Jackets, Novelty, Outfits, Pants, Period, UFonly
November 22nd, 2007 at 09:26pmMr. Oh
This is Gaku-Gen by Orange Meili of Discord. The white version in particular whispers “simplicity,” albeit intelligently decorated. The stylized tribal/flame design in contrasting colour is avoids cliche with its restraint and asymmetry, especially on the trousers. There’s something anime about the exaggerated flare of the trousers and length of the jacket/robe. The robe bottom is a skirt-layer garment rather than a prim attachment, so strike a kung-fu pose and the design will stretch like it’s printed on a rubber band. Somehow I find this adds to, rather than subtracts from, the anime feel of the outfit.
(more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Mr. Oh: Nora Entice - Hunter Almond by Sezmra Svarog (Nora BodySkins & Fashion). Freebie "Linden Labs Male Korean Avatar" hair by unknown (NCI). Scripted colour-change "Aviator 1" sunglasses by Damanios Thetan (Collection Damani). AFantasy Harley Engineering Boots in black by Lightwave Valkyrie (AFantasy).
Post Category: Casual, Costumes, Discord, Fantasy, Novelty, Outfits, Robes
November 16th, 2007 at 09:59amMr. Oh
Here’s a piece I love, a stereotypical Japanese work cover-all, apparently called a Tunagi. Your typical westerner making work-clothes wouldn’t be able to resist grunging it up with grease and sweat and so on. This one is shiny and spotless. You have to love it — it’s so ordinary and yet so illustrative of the difference between our cultures. And so unfashionable, it’s cult fashionable. You can see Yoshimi Zabelin’s talent in the shading and shadows; this is no amateur production. It comes in three different colours, but the orange is probably the most … industrial. Each color is — get this — 5L$. No, there’s no discount available for the fatpack. The broom is free at any number of campsites, I’m wearing a generic t-shirt underneath and the customizable name tag is by elka Lehane of [BF] Boing Fromage for 1L$.
(more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: Yes
Notes: On Mr. Oh: Nora Entice - Hunter Almond by Sezmra Svarog (Nora BodySkins & Fashion). Freebie "Linden Labs Male Korean Avatar" hair by unknown (NCI). Scripted colour-change "Aviator 1" sunglasses by Damanios Thetan (Collection Damani). Black Harley Engineering Boots by Lightwave Valkyrie (AFantasy).
Post Category: Casual, Jackets, Novelty, Outfits, Sweaters, Urban, Westy's
November 9th, 2007 at 05:31pmMr. Oh
Does just what it says: no more, no less. You’ve gotta love pieces that pull that off, and do so with character. The buttons are eye-catchers without stooping to flashiness, there’s a prim stand-up collar and prim cuffs that add to the attitude, but could hardly be simpler and less gaudy.
But we all have plenty of white shirts. Why buy another? (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Mr. Oh: Nora Entice - Hunter Almond by Sezmra Svarog (Nora BodySkins & Fashion). Freebie "Linden Labs Male Korean Avatar" hair by unknown (NCI). "Tortoise-shell glasses" by Arcadia Asylum (freebie boxes everywhere). Pirate pistol belt by Broder Kubrick (BroGear). Charcoal trousers from Charcoal Evening Suit by Vincente Shepherd (Gaslights Emporium). Spetznaz coat by Govindira Galatea (D3volution). Morgan suit jacket and trousers by hyasynth Tiramisu (Silent Sparrow). Gold Brocade waistcoat by Vincente Shepherd (Gaslights Emporium). "Torley Torgesson, Sr. Avatar Kit" by Torley Linden.
Post Category: Casual, Dressy, Fantasy, Novelty, Period, Plus NINE, Shirts
November 3rd, 2007 at 09:00amMr. Oh
Look. Now look hard. This is Banneret, the latest release from artist hyasynth Tiramisu of Silent Sparrow. There are more clothes for women than for men at the shop, but the outfits for men, like Banneret, are exceptional. There are four versions (400L$ each, fat pack 1200L$). Each is the same shape, each has prim cuffs and the innovative straight prim collar with buttons. And each comes with gloves, trousers and a jacket that can be worn on its own or with a flexi-prim tunic extension. This version is called Twilight. Think it’s just black? Look again. Look at that purple piping trim. Each has different coloured details. Now look harder. Each has a different intricate brocade pattern, soft black on hard black. There are secrets about black. But the real story of Silent Sparrow is the story of colours you cannot see. (more…)
Disclosure: NOTES: On Mr. Oh: Nora Entice - Hunter Almond by Sezmra Svarog (Nora BodySkins & Fashion). Freebie "Sleek" hair in Nickel by Elika Tiramisu (ETD). AFantasy Men's Harley Engineer boots in black and brown by Lightwave and SexyEyes Valkyrie (AFantasy Emporium). Scripted Toprim glasses by Damanios Thetan (Collection Damani).
Notes: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Post Category: Coats, Costumes, Designer Reviews, Dressy, Fantasy, Formal, Gothic, Jackets, Novelty, Outfits, Period, Shirts, Silent Sparrow, Suits, Vests
October 26th, 2007 at 06:30pmMr. Oh
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
Previous Posts
You’ve almost certainly heard the Christmas song “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town.” If you’re of a certain age, you probably remember well from the childhood the old Rankin-Bass holiday TV special of the same name. What’s important here is Santa’s role as judge, jury and (metaphorical) executioner, at least as far as Christmas gifts are concerned. Who wants a lump of coal in his stocking?
