Posts filed under 'Vests'
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
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
It will come as no surprise to you when I observe the truism that Spring and Summer are, sartorially speaking, quite different from Fall and Winter. Fabrics are lighter in weight, brighter in color, bolder in pattern, and layering for hot and cold weather are entirely different things. Even though the climate where I live is overall pretty mild, my RL wardrobe for warm weather is very different than for the cooler seasons. Temperatures and precipitation aside, Spring and Summer just feel more casual to me–I wear a lot of shorts, linen trousers and casual shirts, and apparently I’ll wear sandals with anything. But what to do when the sun is blazing down, but the occasion is formal, and a linen suit simply won’t do? (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Miguel" skin by Tricky Boucher (Belleza). "Alex" hair by Maddox DuPont (MADesigns). "Moliere" shoes by Storm Schmooz (L'Atelier Storm Schmooz).
Post Category: Belleza, Formal, Jackets, New Items, Pants, Rebel Hope Designs, Shirts, Skins, Socks, Suits, Ties, Vests
May 19th, 2009 at 02:23pmRyan Darragh
Think back to high school. Go on, you can do it, it wasn’t that long ago. Now, be honest–with yourself, if no one else: Were you a 98-lb. weakling? A math geek? A member of the Chess Club? Here, I’ll go first. I was all of the above (okay, French Club, not Chess Club, but still). I was a geekboy, and proud of it! Well, I’m proud of it now. So it’s with no small frisson of delight (French Club, remember?) that I first surveyed and then tried on myvegancookbook Bolissima’s line of geekboy couture, out now at Adjunct. It’s all there, everything you remember–well, everything but the plastic pocket protector. And who knows? That could be in the works even as we speak.
Consider this classic ensemble. Maybe this was you, or another boy in your class, but somebody in your experience dressed just like this. Maybe he (you?) had no choice then, but now we do, and it’s empowering to take it back. The Short Sleeve Dress Shirt I’m wearing here can only be worn tucked in, of course–what self-respecting geekboy wears a dress shirt untucked? There’s a front patch pocket, and the white buttons are buttoned all the way to the top. No one would expect otherwise. Three colors, L$100 each. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Most | Friends List: Yes
Notes: On Ryan: "Justin" skin by sachi Vixen (Adam n Eve). "Loran" hair by Din Raymaker (Uncleweb Studio). Kicks shoes by Menno Ophelia (Kari). Knee Length Athletic Socks by myvegancookbook Bolissima (not for sale). Lunch bag by Posy Trudeau (Miau Haus).
Post Category: Adjunct, Casual, Designer Reviews, Jeans, Pants, Period, Shirts, Shorts, Sweaters, Ties, Vests
May 13th, 2009 at 07:13pmRyan Darragh
For a while now, Shinichi Mathy has been one to watch. His clothing designs have been not just colorful but impeccably textured and detailed, not just handsome but beautiful, not just interesting but fun. In my own humble opinion, that last might be the most important element of all. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: Yes
Notes: On Ryan: "Alpha" skin (Saxon) by Theodore DuCasse (Zanzo). "Jiro" hair by Kavar Cleanslate (Exile). Blossoms long-sleeve tees by Shinichi Mathy (SHIKI). Men's Belt Sandals by JB Gazov (J's). Wonder Ring by Mhaijik Guillaume (Mhaijik Things).
Post Category: Casual, Dressy, Jackets, Jeans, New Items, Pants, Period, SHIKI Designs, Shirts, Skins, Suits, Vests, Zanzo
May 4th, 2009 at 10:50pmRyan 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
I recently received an intriguing note from edo Tone, designer of fantastic formalwear. In the note (and I’m paraphrasing here), edo acknowledged the problematic nature of white clothing in SL and nonetheless stated his firm belief that men still want white suits and tuxedos. With this in mind, he had recently completed a white tuxedo of which he was very proud, and it was his humble hope that others would admire it too. He included a couple of snapshots for my reference.
I was intrigued. I decided to take a closer look. After all, short of nuking the site from orbit, it’s the only way to be sure. edo’s White Tuxedo for 2009 is a beautiful piece of work. I think it compares most favorably with Shai’s Classic Tux in white, which has been my go-to white tux for the last several months. It’s good to have options. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan "Ryder" hair by Kavar Cleanslate (Exile). GearShift Boxer Briefs by Donovan Brennen (GearShift).
Post Category: Formal, Jackets, New Items, PXL Creations, Pants, Shirts, Shoes, Skins, Styles of edo, Suits, Vests
April 9th, 2009 at 04:23pmRyan Darragh
When I recently put together a new and very different avatar for myself (in response to a Style Throwdown challenge from Express), I never intended for him to be a one-shot deal. Frankly, the investment (in skins, hair, and attitue) was not exactly insignificant, and I not only planned but promised to bring him back now and then. I figured, if nothing else, he’d provide a way for me to explore and present some designs that might not otherwise be quite Ryan’s style.
Trevor Turner has been creating the Young Urban line for a good while now, refining his technique along the way, and his recent designs, while still low-key and relatively straightforward, have been ever more polished and interesting. Take for example the Vest shown here. The neckline scoops casually low, the fabric texture is slightly, comfortably rough rather than refined and smooth, the shading depicts realistic tugs and tension in the fabric rather than arbitrary wrinkles. Wear it alone, with tee, or with short-sleeved white shirt and prim cuffs. L$190 each in four colors: Black, Blue, Brown and Grey. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Kamal" skin and "Busta 2" hair by shiloh Jun (Shiloh Jun).
Post Category: Casual, Designer Reviews, Eyewear, IcaruS, Jeans, Jewelry, M.R.M., New Items, ROLE Optic, Redgrave, Shirts, Shoes, Updated Items, Urban, Vests, Young Urban
January 29th, 2009 at 04:37pmRyan Darragh
I did something new and unusual this year. I took vacation over the Christmas and New Year holidays. Two weeks off from work, to be precise. I had no travel plans, as my immediately family members all live fairly close to one another, but I wanted to try out a less busy and stressful holiday season, to see what that was like. I had all these plans for fun and productive things I was going to do, and some of these were actually accomplished. But mostly I, um, sat around and was pretty mellow.
As fallout, I suppose, of all this calm and relaxation, the holidays seemed for me perhaps not to pass more slowly but somehow to last longer, if that makes sense. Here it is, January 8, and I’m still feeling festive. Hey, we’ve only just passed Twelfth Night! In fact, our tree is still up.
I’m also still (so far) going strong with winter formalwear, although I might be just about ready to wrap this series up. Today’s installment features new creations by swaffette Firefly, longtime SL resident and designer, currently available at her new über classy formalwear boutique, High Society. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: Yes
Notes: On Ryan: "Cole" skin by Commandah Keen (Dernier Cri). "Denis" hair by Din Raymaker (Uncleweb Studio). SF Design Brogues (with color-change scripting) by swaffette Firefly (SF Design).
Post Category: Coats, Dressy, Formal, High Society, Jackets, New Items, Pants, Period, SF Design, Shirts, Shoes, Suits, Ties, Vests
January 8th, 2009 at 05:01pmRyan Darragh
In my previous “Winter formals” post I featured some contemporary but classic men’s formal-dress items by edo Tone. You may still be searching for the perfect suit to wear, though, if the formal winter festivities you’ll be attending are a little less conventional, a little more…gothly. If that’s the case, I dare say you may need look no further than the Revenant Suit by Allegory Malaprop. Although sloe-eyed Frosty here seems indifferent to its charms, not to mention my own, I can assure you that it’s a remarkable piece of sartorial engineering indeed. It has, in fact, already prompted unsolicited compliments (the best kind) from unexpected quarters. You really must take a closer look. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Draco" skin by Theoden Ling (SUBARU). "Czech Mate" hair by Noam Sprocket (Gritty Kitty). SF Design Brogues by swaffette Firefly (SF Design).
Post Category: Dressy, Formal, Gloves, Gothic, Jackets, Pants, Period, Schadenfreude, Shirts, Suits, Vests
December 31st, 2008 at 05:09pmRyan Darragh
So, I had this crazy idea that I would do a series of posts featuring formal wear for the holidays. This thing called Christmas kinda got in my way, but I’m kicking it off anyway. I’ve got a few things already lined up; we’ll see how far I get. Consider these recommendations for winter parties in general, holiday or otherwise. Hey, New Year’s Eve is still coming! (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Antonio" skin by Funk Schnook (FNKY!). "Gabriel" hair by Lost Thereian (Naughty). H&H Oxfords by Eponymous Trenchmouth (JCS). Steel Cane by Vincente Shepherd (Gaslights Emporium).
Post Category: Accessories, Formal, Freebies, Hatpins, Hats, Jackets, Pants, Shirts, Spindle Vlodovic, Styles of edo, Suits, Vests
December 27th, 2008 at 11:38pmRyan Darragh
So y’all might be wondering what happened to the throwdown. Basically, my last opponent had a lot of RL issues come up halfway through the round and I’ve had RL and SL issues so we called it off for a bit. I had been planning to introduce something new, so that’s coming to you now.
The process of choosing a theme is basically spinning a big wheel. I use two random numbers. One of them acts as a bit of salt, choosing where the wheel starts spinning from. The other, usually much larger, is the equivalent of actually spinning the wheel. I get the numbers in different ways — sometimes I use a website and other times I just ask my opponent to pick a number.
I’m thinking of using yet another wheel. Up till now I’ve used a somewhat vague theme, that both my opponent and I can interpret as we see fit. But more and more, those outfits and feeling like costumes and not actually something most folks could wear on a day to day basis. To remedy the situation, I just need to have more types of themes — another wheel. (more…)
Post Category: Accessories, Boots, Eyes, Gloves, Gothic, Hair, Jeans, Shirts, Skins, Style Throwdown, Vests
December 24th, 2008 at 11:35amExpress Zenovka
The ARGRACE Fall/Winter collection by AIR Winx is, in a word, impressive. A good double handful of the designs have been burning a hole in my inventory for several days now–I’m long overdue sharing them with you. Although I love and enjoy exploring some of the incredible variety of themed clothing you can find in SL, there’s still a place in my heart (and room in my wardrobe) for contemporary designs. A beautiful sweater, a handsome jacket, an eye-catching accessory: these all make me happy. If they do the same for you, I’d be surprised if you don’t find something here worth taking home. (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). Beach pants by swaffette Firefly (SF Design). Toltec shoes by Eponymous Trenchmouth (JCS).
Post Category: ARGRACE, Accessories, Casual, Designer Reviews, Dressy, Formal, Hoodies, Jackets, Jeans, New Items, Shirts, Sweaters, Ties, Vests
December 17th, 2008 at 04:18pmRyan 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
The term rockabilly is a portmanteau of rock and hillbilly. The former is short for rock ‘n roll and the latter is a semi-derogatory reference to country music. As one of the earliest styles of rock ‘n roll, rockabilly music reveals a lot of about rock ‘n rolls origins developing out of blues, r&b, country, and gospel music. There’s always been a few styles associated with the movement — the gaudy stage clothes of stage performers, the clean cut pastel suits as those performers started to perform on television, and of course the “retro” style of the bad boys and pinup girls from the 50s. Because back then rock ‘n roll was just starting to be accepted by the masses as acceptable for the youth of the country. Here to reminisce with me is Achariya Maktoum of achariya.net. I don’t think I can classify her to a single style, since every time I go to her page I see a new one — she seems to have em all covered. Either way, that just makes this throwdown more challenging and fun.
(more…)
Post Category: Accessories, Boots, Eyes, Eyewear, Hair, Jeans, Period, Shirts, Shoes, Skins, Style Throwdown, Tattoos, Ties, Vests
November 14th, 2008 at 10:49pmExpress Zenovka
You’ve seen them everywhere you’ve ever lived. Judy Garland immortalized them in 1944’s Meet Me in St. Louis. Maybe, like Judy, you’ve wanted to make the acquaintance of one, or maybe you’ve wanted to be one. In SL, all things are possible. Namida Akami’s new “Boy Next Door” is a beautifully textured casual ensemble that can be worn in several different ways, so you’re not limited to a single “look.” I’m a big fan of flexibility, and I appreciate it when designers create clothing that can be worn in ways that approximate RL clothing. Don’t get me wrong–I don’t think that SL is all about recreating RL experiences in a virtual setting, although you can certainly do that and have fun. Some of my favorite clothing and accessory items are designs that would be completely impossible in RL, or possible but completely unaffordable. But there’s plenty of room in the world for realistic casual wear that’s also realistically flexible, and as I said, I’m a big fan. 
(more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Antonio" skin by Funk Schnook (FNKY!). "Gunner" hair by Shelly Toonie (Moonshine). Moliere dress shoes by Storm Schmooz (L'Atelier Storm Schmooz). Rectech glasses by Cienna Rand (Primcrafters).
Post Category: Casual, MUWU, New Items, Outfits, Pants, Shirts, Vests
November 12th, 2008 at 04:49pmRyan Darragh
He saw her at dusk, standing at the Blood Fountain. He had only just arisen for the night, and she must have known that, must have been waiting. She was brave, or reckless, perhaps thoughtless, certainly foolish–but, however mildly curious he might be, in the end he knew it was of no importance. She was there; that was all that mattered. She could not possibly have made herself more an offering, no matter if she had tried for an eternity. She was beautiful, which was pleasing if unnecessary, and she was daringly attired, which was unsurprising. Her bared neck and shoulders amused him, her prayerful stance struck him as forceful if unoriginal, but her rosary necklace pushed him almost to the brink of laughter. It was not that the Christian cross had no power–no, not at all. But it was after all only a symbol, and meant little in the absence of belief, however limited. And he did not sense from her anything like belief. From her he sensed only anticipation, expectation…resignation? Was it? With most it would have been, but not with her. Interesting.
He knew she was his when she deigned to notice his presence. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Gabriel" hair by Lost Thereian (Naughty). Wings by Kala Bijoux (Material Squirrel, limited edition Halloween 2007 group gift). On Posy: [Curio] - Pearl skin by Gala Phoenix (Brazen). "Abyss" eyes by Posy Trudeau (Flesh Peddlers). "Sofia" hair by Elikapeka Tiramisu (ETD). "Darkness Rose" dress by Darwin Mizser (AVid). Bowtie Betty shoes by Eponymous Trenchmouth (JCS). "Hail Mary" Rosary necklace by Krius Misfit (SiniStyle).
Post Category: AVid, Boots, Coats, Eyes, Fantasy, Formal, Gloves, Gothic, Holiday, New Items, Outfits, Pants, Period, Roleplay, Shirts, Skins, Steam Powered Nuts, Suits, Vests
October 28th, 2008 at 06:35pmRyan Darragh
Second-man.com regulars need no introduction to the work of Raven Pennyfeather. RFyre outfits are always richly detailed, deeply coloured, and usually full of options and amazing prim features. The latest outfit, Unseelie, is clearly and unmistakeably in that tradition.
Terribly romantic rather than pure gothic, Unseelie consists of tight leather trousers, a rough white cable-knit shirt, either a jacket with prim belt and bottom, complementary collar and shoulder-guards (with a greenish tinge); or a waistcoat, which which the prim belt and bottom also work. If you wear the jacket, prim “sleeves” join the gloves in a great design. If you wear the waistcoat, the woolen shirt has some bunched sleeve cuffs with lace extentions. The shirt also comes with a loose and gauzy collar. Socks are also included, but not boots. (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). Jared hair in faded black by Elikapeka Tiramisu (ETD). Simple frameless sunglasses, mirrored, by Groll Greggan (Groll\'s Inn & Hideaway). Sparrow Boots in black by Broder Kubric(BroGear).
Post Category: Dressy, Fantasy, Gothic, Jackets, Outfits, Period, RFyre, Roleplay, Shirts, Suits, Vests
October 13th, 2008 at 02:51pmMr. Oh
The yacht club is a venerable institution among the monied classes. If nothing else, it provides an outlet for spending said money, drinking liquor, lounging about on hot lazy summer afternoons, and dancing away the evenings, as immortalized in Fats Waller’s 1938 song “Yacht Club Swing.” Not to mention providing a good place to keep one’s yacht, or yachts. I’m just hoping that upcoming regatta doesn’t turn into a three-hour tour. Please don’t let me end up on an island populated by the Skipper, his Little Buddy and the rest of their motley crew (although, in all honesty, I wouldn’t mind a weekend swapping style tips with Ginger Grant). Fortunately, you don’t have to maroon yourself on an uncharted desert isle just to be one of the Idle Rich. In swaffette Firefly’s new “SF Design Henley” outfit, you too can be Thurston Howell, III. All you need to provide is your very own Lovey. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: Yes
Notes: On Ryan: "Antonio" skin by Funk Schnook (FNKY!). "Dan" hair by Din Raymaker (Uncleweb Studio). Havana sandals by Eponymous Trenchmouth (JCS).
Post Category: Casual, Hats, Jackets, New Items, Outfits, Pants, SF Design, Shirts, Sportswear, Sweaters, Vests
August 28th, 2008 at 01:03pmRyan Darragh
Sometimes when I go shopping at June Dion’s BareRose Tokyo, it makes me crazy. That could be the lag, which can be ferocious. Or it could be that I can’t walk out of there without clicking BUY at least, oh, four or five times. I usually have a folder in my inventory that contains just the last few things I picked up there, so hopefully I’ll think of them when special occasions arise, or at least remember to try them on at some point. The very existence of this folder inspired the topic (and title) of this post. I’m only surprised it took so long. I’ve had these for at least a little while, so I won’t call them “new.” I checked last night, and there are a number of more recently released designs available now, so some of these have been moved out of the New Items towers at the front of the store. Such are the productivity and prowess of June’s CS3 monkeys.
The “Galaxy Train Ride” ensemble for men makes me happy. The name alone puts a smile on my face. I mean, honestly–can you not think of a dandy gentleman boarding a steam-powered rocket train for a quick jaunt to the center of the Milky Way? And, being a gentleman, of course he’d take along some bread, cheese, fruit and wine for a nice picnic lunch. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: FORM skin by Zabitan Assia (FORM). ML020 skin by Yukimaru Koba (Z#road Men's Shop). "Keats" hair by Din Raymaker (Uncleweb Studio). Old Shoes and Boho Sandals by Fallingwater Cellardoor (Shiny Things).
Post Category: Accessories, Bags, BareRose Tokyo, Casual, Coats, Dressy, Fantasy, Gloves, Gothic, Hats, Outfits, Pants, Period, Shirts, Vests
August 23rd, 2008 at 07:07amRyan Darragh
So, I picked up this period suit a little while back, with a certain larger, themed article in mind. For a variety of reasons, that didn’t quite work out–it happens, unfortunately. Ever since, it’s been sitting in my inventory, waiting patiently, reminding me every so often that it’s still there, still beautiful, eager to be worn. Absent the larger article’s context, I couldn’t decide how to present it. Finally, last night, it came together in my head…with, as the song says, a little help from a friend.
DoC Eldritch’s “1846 (Blackened)” suit has a fantastic Old American West feel–I can easily see Al Swearengen wearing it just to intimidate Cy Tolliver or impress Mr. Wu, unlikely though he might be to achieve success in either endeavor. It represents true, lovingly maintained gentleman’s finery of an era when true finery might be found but rarely, and then it was quite likely to be ill cared-for and shabby. Not so here. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Noir" skin and eyes by Posy Trudeau (Flesh Peddlers, Silent location only). "Serafin" hair by Din Raymaker (Uncleweb Studio). Quixote boots by Eponmyous Trenchmouth (JCS).
Post Category: Coats, DE Designs, Dressy, Fantasy, Outfits, Pants, Period, Shirts, Vests
August 14th, 2008 at 07:35pmRyan Darragh
Let us sing the praises of the humble waistcoat, unjustly neglected for decades. Nowadays it seems that even gentlemen such as ourselves could go for years without ever wearing one except at weddings and attending Royal Ascot every year. Yet it forms a crucial article of gentlemen’s attire in other subcultures, such as the Steampunk sims. I ran across Nix Sands’ rakish Xcentricity brand first in Port Babbage and was captivated as soon as I saw them. My favourite is Poisson, here portrayed in what are indelicately called ’sooty tones.’ The celtic design is printed on the finest satin and the garment is reassuringly snug without pulling tight.
Other gentlemen may frown on it, but I love to leave my jacket behind and take the air in only my shirt sleeves and waistcoat — ah, the daring informality of it all! Clearly Mssr Sands did not have such indiscretions in mind, since the backs of his waistcoats not only lack the design, but are not even satin, merely cotton, with bunching showing clearly as a buckled strap takes up the slack fabric where the garment tapers at the waist. [I stand corrected on this point; please now see Baron Wulfenbach's comment to this article below.] Poisson is also available in indigo, olive and salmon (all of them much nicer names than ’sooty;’ …I ask you!) and costs only 80L$. You may not see them when you first enter the shop — cycle through the vendor which also sells the ‘Steamy’ and ‘Wheeler’ waistcoats, to which we turn next. (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 blackened grey by Elikapeka Tiramisu (ETD). "Finesse" glasses with scripted frames and lenses by Nibb Tardis (primOptic). Suits, shirts and prim bow tie by Vincente Shepherd (Gaslights Emporium).
Post Category: Dressy, Formal, Steampunk, Vests, Xcentricity
June 29th, 2008 at 11:32amMr. Oh
The last few days, I’ve been hoping on and off (more on than off) that the “unseasonably warm” temperatures in my RL home city (Los Angeles) will return quickly to milder and more usual weather. Please, God, let the meteorologists be meaningfully right, just for once. I know it will be 110 Fahrenheit degrees plus in September, but right now it is quite frankly too damn early in the season for this nonsense. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: Some
Notes: On Ryan: Envision Platinum skin by Maximillion Grant (The Body Politik). "Jason" hair by Garbage Prototype (Random Fashions).
Post Category: A2NZ, Accessories, BUKKA, Boots, Casual, Eyewear, Hats, House of London, Outfits, Shirts, TheZoo, Vests, [Men's Corner]
May 16th, 2008 at 09:38pmRyan Darragh
Now, I don’t mean “guywear” in the sense that it’s clothing Lloyd Dobler would wear. (”The world is full of guys. Don’t be a guy. Be a man.”) It’s just that “menswear” seemed somehow not quite right here. Yes, I’m making it up as I go along. Anyway, Lloyd might well wear some of this stuff. I’m thinking by the end of the movie.
I seem to recall that Garbage Prototype had dropped one or two vague hints during the two months or so it took him to redesign and rebuild his shop and completely revamp his clothing and body lines for men and women. I think he just likes to tease like that. This is the kind of thing that just nags away at me from the back of my brain, kind of like my mother, or my conscience if I had one, or the approach of Christmas when I was a kid. I had also visited his website and seen his teaser video, so I knew that interesting things were afoot at the Circle-K. When he finally said, “Okay, I’m not ready to open yet, but come and take a look if you want to!”–I most definitely wanted to.
I honestly don’t know what my expectations were. I didn’t expect the shop’s casually elegant atmosphere to so slyly reflect Garbage’s creative approach. I know that I was surprised by some of the designs–wow, Garbage did a suit?–and impressed by the range of items and choice of colors. As a collection it felt focused, consistent, and very much an expression of a designer’s vision. I couldn’t wait to pick his brain. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: Yes
Notes: On Ryan: Random Male Skin, eyes and various hairstyles by Garbage Prototype (Random Fashions). Men's Oxford Leather Shoes by Tesla Miles (TESLA). On Sean: "Dante" skin by Lost Thereian (Naughty). "Poynter" hair by Liam Oliver (Armidi). "Trader" jeans by Dragontat Zagato (Desert Moon Clothiers). Classic Jeans by Jesseaitui Petion (Aitui). City Walk dress shoes by Fallingwater Cellardoor (Shiny Things).
Post Category: Business, Casual, Coats, Designer Reviews, Dressy, Hair, Jackets, Jeans, New Items, Random Fashions, Shirts, Shorts, Skins, Suits, Sweaters, Ties, Vests, Yukirei Greene
April 15th, 2008 at 01:14pmRyan Darragh
One of the things I enjoy most about SL, and this opportunity to share some of the stuff I find there, is hearing about (or from) new or unfamiliar designers and trying on their creations for the first time. Whether they’re just getting started, or taking their design work in a new direction, there’s something actually kind of exciting about it. Namida Akami has just two items out at her new shop MUWU, but they’re her first two designs for men, and they’re fascinatingly different from each other in approach, style and execution. “The English Boy” (L$90) is a classic ensemble: navy blazer over sweater vest over white oxford shirt. It’s eminently sober and respectable, just the thing for a full day of classes or an afternoon of quiet study at the library. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Androgyne" skin by Toshiya Okawa (eXceSs). "Deviance" hair by Lost Thereian (Naughty). "Brooklyn" jeans by Chloris Hathor (Indigo). Akeyo Chucks high-tops by Akemi Yoshikawa (Akeyo). "Dexter" glasses by Zabitan Assia (FORM).
Post Category: Casual, Jackets, MUWU, New Items, Outfits, Pants, Shirts, Vests
March 27th, 2008 at 03:58pmRyan 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
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
Sometimes guys just want to have fun. I know, I know, in the song Cyndi’s talking about girls, but fortunately Jeanni Nishi knows the real truth: it’s guys, too. (You know the song, of course. If not–first, shame on you, and second, you’ll never win on Jeopardy if the Daily Double is in Eighties Pop.) Jeanni is just starting to roll out designs at her new shop Sweeet!!, but she already has some fun stuff for the guys, and the girls haven’t been forgotten either.
Here I’m wearing the Seersucker Shirt (L$100) in Brown, but you’ll find it in a variety of other colors as well. I’m layering with the Tartan Vest (L$100) in Red, because as you know I’ve got something of an affinity for the family of warmer tones, but you have plenty of other color choices. Hey, it’s a guilty pleasure, but I’ve decided not to give it up for Lent. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan:FORM skin (pale, eyeliner) by Zabitan Assia (FORM). "Sordid" hair by Tami McCoy (Hair Designs by Tami McCoy). Relics Casual shoes (Obsidian Sun) by Donovan Brennen (GearShift).
Post Category: Accessories, Casual, New Items, Pants, Shirts, Sweeet!!, Vests
February 21st, 2008 at 09:18pmRyan Darragh
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It’s official–swaffette has gone a little bit mad.
