Posts filed under 'New Items'
I don’t have freckles in real life. I was a redheaded kid–there’s some Irish in me–but that kind of faded toward brown as I got older. If I get a lot of sun, my hair lightens toward blond rather than red. I guess the Irish wasn’t dominant enough. My complexion, though, was and still is very fair, but without freckles. I guess it isn’t as bad as Woody Allen (”I don’t burn, I stroke”), but I’m told my pediatrician warned my mom against letting me get too much sun (”Don’t you dare bring that kid in here with a bad sunburn!”). And this was back when it was still “suntan lotion,” not “sunscreen,” so that kind of says something. I always wished my red hair had “stuck,” and for whatever reason I kinda wished I had freckles to go along with it, too. Although it hasn’t been a consuming passion, I’m always on the lookout for a good skin with good freckles. You may recall that I really liked sachi’s recent “Justin”–my only personal reservation was that the musculature was a little too ripped to suit my own tastes. I so like the facial features and coloring that I wear it a lot anyway. Rack Brautigan’s new male skins at Imagen include “Gael,” a freckled skin with toned but not ripped musculature. Although there’s likely no such thing as “the perfect skin” for anyone, and my own preferences may not match yours or those of anyone else, for me ”Gael” does take that one step closer toward fitting my own personal ideal. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Dries" hair by MissAllSunday Lemon (Wasabi Pills). Gold flakes - Olivine eyes by Lano Ling (Poetic Colors). V-Neck Knit Set and Color Denim pants by Machant Pichot (AOHARU).
Post Category: Imagen, New Items, Skins
June 30th, 2009 at 05:12pmRyan Darragh
This post is Part II of my coverage of Menlosophy, designs by Amanda Bolero and ziamela Loon. You can read Part I here.
One of the more traditional Menlosophy designs is undoubtedly the Chess shirt. When I say “traditional,” I don’t mean it as a slam–it’s not code for “conventional” or even ”old-fashioned”–and I mention it at all only because I’ve said so much in this context about getting outside the box. This shirt may still have one sleeve inside the box, but it’s such a handsome design, in such a challenging fabric print, that I can’t help but love it. The cut is flattering, and the tight check print is potentially problematic but done so well that it looks better than it has any right to do. Sculpted collar and cuffs are pretty much de rigeur for dressy shirts these days, and many casual shirts as well. Here the collar is casual but smart, with sharply creased edges and crisp points. The cuffs are equally casual but softer, rounder, and they looked comfortably turned-up. L$150. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Most | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Vivant Buff" skin by CJ Carnot (Fleur). "Akami" hair by Maddox DuPont (MADesigns). "numero83" sunglasses by Youki Ran (Ottico).
Post Category: Casual, Designer Reviews, Dressy, Jackets, Menlosophy, New Items, Outfits, Pants, Shirts, Shoes
June 23rd, 2009 at 03:04pmRyan Darragh
You’ve heard it. So have I. People complain not just about the relative dearth of menswear designs in SL (in comparison to the vast selection available for women, and although I suffer no shortage of fine items to feature here I think this is still generally true), but about the “sameness” we often see as well. (Sometimes it seems like everyone with Photoshop and a Wacom tablet has a shop selling jeans, tees and polos.) They want something interesting, fresh, original–”outside the box.” Hey, I’ve been known to join in that chorus myself. I’m a big fan of contemporary casual clothing, too, but within that fairly broad category it seems like there should be more room for exploration.
With their new collection at Menlosophy, design partners Amanda Bolero and ziamela Loon push the envelope and stretch the boundaries more than just a bit. Sure, much of the collection qualifies as “contemporary casual”–what’s not to love?–but few of any of the designs are simple or ordinary. One of my favorite pieces is the Velvet jacket, shown here in Verde. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Most | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Vivant Buff" skin by CJ Carnot (Fleur). "Akami" hair by Maddox DuPont (MADesigns).
Post Category: Casual, Designer Reviews, Dressy, Jackets, Menlosophy, New Items, Outfits, Pants, Shirts, Shoes
June 19th, 2009 at 04:29pmRyan Darragh
It’s official–swaffette has gone a little bit mad.
In the best way possible, I mean. Her new Performance Suit, released earlier this month, may just be the most impressively flexible suit I’ve ever worn. Dozens of pieces provide for what seems like tons of mix-and-match wear options. I tried to count up the possibilities, but I gave up when I lost track and had to start over. Twice. I kid you not.
swaffette’s creation is a classic English three-piece suit, in an attractive slim cut, with two-button jacket. This simple description doesn’t begin to convey the extensive planning and effort that have clearly gone into such a generous “single garment” offering. If that doesn’t signify some kind of madness, I don’t know what does. But you be the judge. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: Yes
Notes: On Ryan: "Vivant Blush Clean" skin by CJ Carnot (Fleur). "Jude" hair by Aleri Darkes (Diversity). Oxford Loafers in Wolvercote by Drusus DuCasse (Zanzo). Dragon Slippers (a Midnight Mania freebie) by Photos Nikolaidis (A:S:S). "Arcadi" glasses by Rohal Schnyder (ROLE Optic).
Post Category: Business, Dressy, Freebies, Jackets, New Items, Pants, SF Design, Shirts, Suits, Ties, Vests
June 16th, 2009 at 02:59pmRyan Darragh
So, I was out on an insane shopping spree with Kith on Monday. I won’t bore you with details of the whole crazy excursion, but I will say that we had a lot of fun, and that my L$ balance is still reeling in shock. Ouch! But it hurts so good.
Although you’ll undoubtedly be seeing further fallout from that shopping trip in days to come, I kinda couldn’t wait to bring one set of items to your attention. I don’t do a lot of posts focused on a single item these days–my ambitions somehow get set way up high, and the posts get all complicated, and then they take a long time to put together. I have fun, which is selfishly important to me, but it can drag things out. Friends have encouraged me to mix things up and Fear Not the One-Off, so today I have just one thing for you. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed. Okay, cue the Radio Announcer Guy voice… (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Jiro" skin by denchu Dench (DEN-DOU). "Happy Valentine" limited edition hair by din Raymaker (Uncleweb Studio).
Post Category: LeLutka, New Items, Underwear
June 10th, 2009 at 01:08pmRyan 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
We still have a few weeks left of Spring, but Summer’s coming on fast. I can feel it sometimes in the air, and already we’ve had to run the a/c for a day or two here and there. I’ve pulled out my shorts for the season in RL, and it seems appropriate to do the same in SL.
And there’s a bonus–in SL (although not in RL, at least not yet), I have some favorite new cargo shorts. And cargo pants. All in one. I’m talking about Masaru Raymaker’s new 4-Way Cargo Pants. What exactly are 4-Way Pants? you may well be wondering. Never fear! I shall tell you.
It’s fairly straightforward, actually. The name pretty much tells the whole story. By mixing and matching from an impressive selection of clothing-layer pieces and sculpted pockets and cuffs, Masaru’s 4-Way Cargos can be worn in four different ways, for four different looks: as shorts; cropped, or rolled to just below the knee; with the standard “system” pants cuffs we all know and love/hate; and with flared, slouchie cuffs. Not only are these impressively flexible, like all of Masaru’s designs they’re amazingly good-looking. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: Some
Notes: On Ryan: "Gen-X" skin by Theodore DuCasses (Zanzo).
Post Category: CREAMSHOP, Casual, Eyewear, Hair, Hats, Jewelry, M.R.M., Monolith, New Items, Pants, Shirts, Shoes, Shorts, Sweaters, Zanzo
May 27th, 2009 at 12:18pmRyan 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 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
This is Part Two of yesterday’s feature, which I split in two because it was long and complex and overly ambitious, I was tired of working on it, you were tired of waiting for it, and figured I might as well milk it for as much as I can get out of it. Nah, just kidding on the “milk it” thing. But it really did make much more sense as two separate posts. So there (or rather here) you have it.
Geekboy though you may be, nobody will ever mistake you for a 98-lb. weakling in any of sachi Vixen’s new skins–at least, not once you take your shirt off. Here I’m wearing “Justin,” just one of nine new skins in the “Skin Evolution” line. The first thing you’ll notice is that this skin is more muscular than the skins I usually prefer and wear–in fact, it’s positively ripped. This makes for something of a dichotomy on my slimmer shape. I tried a few other shapes from my inventory as well, and the look is indeed more balanced on a more muscular avatar. But there’s no way around the fact that Justin’s is the prettiest face of the nine skins in sachi’s new range. That’s part of why I like Justin so much, but then there’s also the fact that Justin is designed for redheads–so we can be real real redheads, if you know what I mean. Yes, that’s naturally red pubic hair! Eyebrows and head hair match, so nobody will ask what shade you buy. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Loran" hair by Din Raymaker (Uncleweb Studio). GearShift boxer briefs by Donovan Brennen (GearShift).
Post Category: Adam n Eve, New Items, Skins
May 14th, 2009 at 03:37pmRyan 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
Some days I feel kind of James Dean-esque. By that I don’t particularly mean anguished, troubled, angst-ridden, and overwhelmed with longing for Natalie Wood (or Sal Mineo). I do mean what seems to us now a simpler time, when girls wore poodle skirts and cat’s-eye glasses, boys smoked without fear of consequences, and rebellion and romance were intimately related. I mean the brightly lit, soft-focus era when my mother grew up and remembers well, although having worn them every day she just doesn’t understand today’s nostalgia for yesterday’s fashions. I mean the kind of idealized Fifties that Antonia Marat seems to believe in with her whole being, and that she designs to within an inch of its virtual life. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Antonio" skin by Funk Schnook (FNKY!). "Rage" hair by Kavar Cleanslate (Exile). Day of the Dead tattoo by Truth Hawks (TRUTH). Jonas jeans (with ankle socks) by Antonia Marat (Artilleri). Dexter glasses by Zabitan Assia (FORM). Lucky Charm freebie necklace by Rosie Barthelmess (Sable Rose). 8-Ball ring by Elsa Weatherwax (SaLsA!).
Post Category: Accessories, Artilleri, Casual, House of Curios, Juice, New Items, Period, Shirts, Shoes
April 22nd, 2009 at 08:52amRyan 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
I love dressing up and going out. I mean, hey, who doesn’t? There’s just something about looking good that makes you feel good. Plus, as my granny used to say, “Looking nice shows people you care.” If there’s one thing my sisters and I have learned in life it’s that, over time, our granny and our mom are always right.
What does it take to “look good”? Of course there’s no simple way to answer that question, but I’m going to take a fairly traditional approach today and start with a suit. If you’re worried that this means I’m suggesting that “looking good = stuffy,” fear not! And trust me.
Although it’s not a new discovery, I truly feel you just can’t go wrong with the classic Wool Suit by Blaze Columbia. There are certainly plenty of other suits out there, and I own a number of other fine ones, but this is the one I keep coming back to–the lines are clean, the style classic, the detailing meticulous, and the colors to die for. I love this luxurious, softly shiny blue like I love my dog. Well, like I imagine I would love my dog, if I had a dog. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Antonio" skin by Funk Schnook (FNKY!). "Surf's Up" hair by Kavar Cleanslate (Exile). Wool Suit by Blaze Columbia (Blaze). Form dress shirt by Adam Soler (Lookr).
Post Category: Blaze Columbia, Bliensen + MaiTai, Dressy, Jewelry, Lookr, Mhaijik Things, New Items, Shirts, Shoes, Suits, Ties
April 2nd, 2009 at 03:17pmRyan Darragh
I have a terrible confession to make. Are you ready? Please don’t make me say this more than once, it’s bad enough as it is. Okay, here goes: Stuff gets lost in my inventory sometimes.
There, I said it. Wow, I feel about a thousand times better already! Confession really is good for the soul.
Does this ever happen to you? It’s not just me, right? Tell me it’s not. Maybe “lost” is too strong a word, though. It’s really more about organization, or rather lack thereof, and therefore the possibility or impossibility of actually finding things, and less about items somehow going *poof*. Unfortunately, what this sometimes means is that interesting things I’ve acquired but not yet featured here end up falling by the virtual wayside. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Antonio" skin by Funk Schnook (FNKY!).
Post Category: ARGRACE, Casual, Hair, Jeans, Jewelry, Kunstkammer, New Items, Novocaine, Sable Rose Jewelry, Shirts, Shoes
March 26th, 2009 at 03:15pmRyan Darragh
You never know what a billionaire might look like. Not all of them look like Rockefellers. It might be the guy sitting next to you on the bus (improbable), or the woman with the gaudy jewelry and the loud voice in the ladies’ room at the opera (more likely). Chances are it’s not the checker at the supermarket, although a recent lotto win is at least technically possible. But it certainly could be the guy sitting in front of you at the racetrack–you know, the guy in the fedora, very casually dressed, sitting alone, doesn’t talk much, never even glances at the racing form. The one who never cheers or has any reaction at all to the outcome of the races. The one who never seems to win or lose, just makes silent trips to the mutuel window every so often. The guy who pays zero attention to the cute blond jockey-ette to his right (although that could be her choice of skin, which although pretty is a demo). He could definitely be a billionaire, or at least a millionaire, especially if it’s a weekday, when the gainfully employed are typically at work, gainfully pursuing their employment. So, yeah, you never know what a billionaire might look like. I mean, look at Bill Gates.
(more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Daniel" skin by Simple Spad (Signature). "Modern Rail" hair by rika Oyen (ARGRACE). Boxer briers by Donovan Brennen (GearShift).
Post Category: Casual, Civvies, Hats, Jewelry, New Items, Pants, Shirts, Shit Luck, Shoes, Unknown Boutique, Urban Bomb Unit
March 19th, 2009 at 04:38pmRyan Darragh
The male bower bird has a fascinating way of attracting a mate. Rather than relying exclusively on his own physical beauty to catch the eye of a promising female, he builds a decorative structure in hopes of winning both favor and the opportunity to pass along his biological distinctiveness. These bowers can take a variety of forms, and can be quite complex. The males often decorate them with brightly colored found objects, and I have read that some even “paint” surrounding grasses using wet bits of bark. The females compare the bowers and choose a mate based on their own whims and inscrutable inner workings.
When you think about it, this isn’t so very different from what humans do. Lacking natural plumage of our own, we (males and females alike) use clothing, jewelry, hairstyles, shoes, automobiles, money, hot tubs, and even etchings to enhance our appeal to others we find desirable. All for the sake of procreation. Well, that and sex. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Gen-X" skin by Theodore DuCasse (Zanzo). "IND525" hair by boo Nakamura (booN).
Post Category: Bower Bird, Eyes, New Items
February 27th, 2009 at 04:10pmRyan 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
I first found Theodore and Drusus DuCasse’s Zanzo a while back quite by accident–or maybe it was serendipity intervening, which is always fun. I noticed one of the small satellite shops (I think it was the one at The Wharf), did a little browsing, and took a few things home. Ultimately I ended up at the seriously extensive main store, which is laid out like small, themed specialty shops along a central main “street.” This layout seemed both smart and convenient, as it makes it easy to browse and shop for items in a particular style or genre, if you have something specific in mind.
King’s Road is Zanzo’s new line of menswear, inspired by different cultures across the world. It was launched recently with an introductory selection of nine different clothing designs, most enhanced with sculpted attachments. Here I’m presenting a cross section of these new designs, including some of my own favorites. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "BON75" hair by boo Nakamura (booN). GearShift Crest Shirt by Donovan Brennen (GearShift). Boho Sandals (because I'll wear them with anything) by Fallingwater Cellardoor (Shiny Things).
Post Category: Casual, Coats, Designer Reviews, Dressy, Eyewear, Jeans, New Items, Pants, Shirts, Skins, Steinwerk Designs, Ties, Zanzo
February 17th, 2009 at 01:00pmRyan Darragh
Nothing says “I love you” like jewelry. And I’m not just talking about the ladies here–it’s a not-very-secret secret that guys like jewelry, too. I think it’s because there’s so little good lingerie out there for us. I mean, hey, a good pair of boxer briefs and we’re done. (Although, hmm, there are always silks…) I’m not talking about watches, either, at least not today. I love watches, but for me they’re more an accessory item than jewelry. Jewelry is something you wear just because it’s pretty. There, I said it and I’ll say it again: pretty. Deep down, you know it’s true.
In case you haven’t noticed, Valentine’s Day is coming right up, check your calendar! For your gift-giving consideration, I thought I’d suggest some jewelry items that I love and admire. I’m hoping that you (or your man) might like them too.
(more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: Some
Notes: On Ryan: "Ichiro" skin by denchu Dench (DEN-DOU). "Teddy" hair by machang Pichot (AOHARU). Kelp God merman gear by EmeraldEver Cline (Em's Mermaid Shop). "Ash" skin and BlueMist2 eyes by Darwin Mizser (AVid). "Illusion" hair by Khai Sinister (The Abyss). Classic Jeans by Jesseaitui Petion (Aitui). Camera Obscura by Tohru Kanami.
Post Category: Aitui, Casual, Dionysia Designs, Dressy, Freebies, Gothic, Holiday, Jewelry, Mhaijik Things, New Items, Underwear
February 12th, 2009 at 02:41pmRyan Darragh
“When someone asks you if you’re a god, you say, YES!” – Winston Zeddmore (Ernie Hudson), “Ghostbusters” (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Antonio" skin by Funk Schnook (FNKY!). "Loki" shape by Vasean Talamasca (Flesh Peddlers). "Riku" hair by Hayate Ewing (Hayate Hair Lab). Boho Sandals by Fallingwater Cellardoor (Shiny Things).
Post Category: BareRose Tokyo, Costumes, Fantasy, New Items, Period, Robes, Roleplay
February 11th, 2009 at 05:17pmRyan Darragh
I happened to run into Oscar last night, still dressed as you see me here, and he said, “Oh, you look very Gangs of New York in that outfit.” I responded with something like, “But hopefully less bloody. And, frankly, less muddled and tedious.” Sorry, Marty, but I thought it was kind of a mess…a glorious mess, but still. Hey, I loved “The Age of Innocence”!
Oscar’s right, though: I do look like I’m either running dubious errands for Bill the Butcher, or on the run from him. I may be no Leo, but in this outfit at least I’ve got some style. This is “Elijah” by Jamie Holmer, recently released at INDI Designs. Although they’re quite different in the details, Elijah reminds me more than a little of Shai’s Newsboy outfit–not in any particular detail, but in the spirit of the era it evokes. While Shai’s newsboy ensemble delights with its youthful energy, to me Jamie’s outfit feels more mature, well suited for the former newsboy now older and working in his first apprenticeship. Sadly, every boy grows up; every youth becomes a man. The beauty of SL is that we can still go back at will, or whim, not just look back longingly from years down the road. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Antonio" skin by Funk Schnook (FNKY!).
Post Category: Accessories, Boots, Casual, Coats, Hats, INDI Designs, New Items, Outfits, Pants, Period, Shirts
February 2nd, 2009 at 07:18pmRyan 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
The Ancient Elf
I am the maker,
The builder, the breaker,
The eagle-winged helper,
The speedy forsaker! (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Some | Friends List: Celty
Notes: On Ryan: "Jiro" skin by denchu Dench (DEN-DOU). "Sebastian" hair by Noam Sprocket (Gritty Kitty). Multi Tone Elven Ears by Leopold Foley (Ye Olde Elven Shoppe).
Post Category: Accessories, Boots, Dressy, Fantasy, Formal, Furniture Adagio, New Items, Roleplay, Silent Sparrow, Suits, Tattoos, Thea Tamura Fashion
January 27th, 2009 at 10:51amRyan Darragh
People give me a hard time about how I — allegedly! – have no patience or room in my life for jeans and tees. This is an ugly rumor and quite simply not true. I love jeans and tees. I just don’t have any patience or room in my life for crappy ones. As I’m sure you’ll agree, that isn’t the same thing at all.
I hope you’ll also agree that the new line of jeans by CK Winx is decidedly non-crappy. The line is called “The Dude.” Now, I’m not sure if this is a reference to Coen Brothers classic “The Big Lebowski” or not, but I wouldn’t be surprised. Does The Dude abide? He does indeed. He most certainly does. And he probably wears these jeans. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: No | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Jiro" skin by denchu Dench (DEN-DOU). "Derick" hair by Din Raymaker (Uncleweb Studio).
Post Category: Casual, Jeans, New Items, Shit Luck
January 22nd, 2009 at 03:29pmRyan Darragh
It isn’t every day, week or even month that I dedicate a review to a new skin. Of course we’ve featured a variety of different skins here, in the Style Throwdown series as well as other posts, with some particularly fun stuff over Halloween, if I do say so myself. I can speak only for myself here, but for me putting together a sufficiently fair, thorough and interesting review of a skin is very time-intensive and, quite frankly, a lot of work, so it’s not something I do very often. I like to live in the skin for at least a few days before even starting to put the review together, so I not only get a feel for being in the skin myself but also (hopefully) get some feedback from others as well. Hopefully that doesn’t sound too crazy-philosophical; it’s just the way I like to work. Anyone else’s mileage may well vary, and significantly at that. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "Derick" hair by Din Raymaker (Uncleweb Studio). "Malo" hoodie/sweater and "Jeans 03" capri-cut denims by beanster Potato (Ducknipple). Boxer briefs by Donovan Brennen (GearShift). "Riverside" necklace by Jesseaitui Petion (Aitui).
Post Category: DEN-DOU, New Items, Skins
January 20th, 2009 at 04:46pmRyan Darragh
Although I’ve wrapped up my “Winter formals” series, it’s still winter…although, hmm, it’s probably almost 80 degrees today where I live. Even so, a good coat for winter is essential, and more than one is indeed very nice to have. Today I present for your consideration three winter coats, from three different designers, using slightly different methods of construction. Although I wouldn’t call such a small sample a serious overview, it will still give you an idea of “what’s out there” so you can shop with a definite goal in mind.
The Leather Trench by sachi Vixen is deceptively simple in design, but far from conventional. The coat is textured in gorgeous leather that looks slightly distressed but still buttery soft. The coat top is provided on the jacket layer, for proper layering with shirts, and the open front lets you show off a favorite. Sculpted cuffs and rather dashing stand-up collar complete the coat top, and sachi has thoughtfully included the flexi coat bottom in both long and short lengths. Prim attachments are easily moddable for size, although the coat bottoms arrive already at minimum size, so you won’t be able to size these down further by simple stretch. This shouldn’t be a problem for most, as they fit me quite well “out of the box,” and my avie is smaller than average. (more…)
Disclosure: Seen in World: Yes | Review Copy: Yes | Friends List: No
Notes: On Ryan: "David" skin by sachi Vixen (Adam n Eve). "Derick" hair by Din Raymaker (Uncleweb Studio). Club Shirt and Black Cords by Dan Senyurt (Dan Senyurt Menswear). Old Shoes by Fallingwater Cellardoor (Shiny Things).
Post Category: Adam n Eve, Alphamale, Casual, Coats, Dressy, M.R.M., New Items
January 14th, 2009 at 03:57pmRyan Darragh
Previous Posts
I don’t have freckles in real life. I was a redheaded kid–there’s some Irish in me–but that kind of faded toward brown as I got older. If I get a lot of sun, my hair lightens toward blond rather than red. I guess the Irish wasn’t dominant enough. My complexion, though, was and still is very fair, but without freckles. I guess it isn’t as bad as Woody Allen (”I don’t burn, I stroke”), but I’m told my pediatrician warned my mom against letting me get too much sun (”Don’t you dare bring that kid in here with a bad sunburn!”). And this was back when it was still “suntan lotion,” not “sunscreen,” so that kind of says something. I always wished my red hair had “stuck,” and for whatever reason I kinda wished I had freckles to go along with it, too. Although it hasn’t been a consuming passion, I’m always on the lookout for a good skin with good freckles. You may recall that I really liked sachi’s recent “Justin”–my only personal reservation was that the musculature was a little too ripped to suit my own tastes. I so like the facial features and coloring that I wear it a lot anyway. Rack Brautigan’s new male skins at Imagen include “Gael,” a freckled skin with toned but not ripped musculature. Although there’s likely no such thing as “the perfect skin” for anyone, and my own preferences may not match yours or those of anyone else, for me ”Gael” does take that one step closer toward fitting my own personal ideal. (more…)
