Mariko Magic: Fashion in Second Life

Alecto - A Touch of Evil

2011-12-21T17:00:00.000-05:00

Alecto by House of Rage

We are told that evil is about to evolve. Will it be subtle and seductive? A soft kiss and the flick of a serpent's tongue? That evil is here now. We see it in the new Evolution line of fashions at the House of Rage. Designs of grace and charm with a touch of evil. So it was that I was drawn in by the charming veneer of a most sinister outfit called Alecto. It's a fitting name for a design coming from the House of Rage. In ancient Greek, Alecto means unceasing anger.

Click on the pictures to enlarge them for better viewing.

In Greek Mythology, Alecto is one of the Erinyes, called the Furies by the Romans. The Erinyes are three sisters, daughers of Gaea (Earth), who sprang from Gaea as she was fertilized by the blood raining down from Uranus (Heaven) when Cronus, his son and leader of the Titans, castrated the terrible deity at the urging of Gaea, his mother, as told by the poet Hesiod in his Theogony. The sisters are Alecto (unceasing anger), Tisiphone (avenger of blood), and Magarea (the jealous one). The Erintyes are avenging deities who persecute unpunished criminals with unrelenting fury, especially murderers guilty of patricide, matricide, or fratricide. The sisters unmercifully pursue their guilty targets, howling at them by day and tormenting them in their dreams at night. Their attacks are devastatingly psychological creating unbearable pangs of conscience. So relentless is their pursuit that their victims either go mad or commit suicide. In appearance, the Erinyes are frightening - coils of serpents crown their heads and their eyes dripped blood. They are lead to the guilty by the flaming torch carried by their leader, Alecto.

The Matricide Orestes Pursued by the Furies by Willam-Adolphe Bouguereau (1862)

When I wore Alecto in public for the first time, I was immediately greeted at my favorite pub with 'Mariko, you look ravishing.' This dress has a very affecting allure. It's charm is evident; but, the spiked fur collar hints of the diabolical. Alecto was designed by Lybra Rage, one of the three fashion designers at The House of Rage who created the Evolution line, the others being Topaz Joubert and LovelyMiwako7399 Men. Alecto comes with ripped top, fur jacket, collar fur, miniskirt, miniskirt prim, miniskirt fur, and hose. It sells for L$700.

You can also remove the fur collared jacket and fur skirt to get an attractive look that is quite fetching. I like how it graces my figure.

This really cute shag is from HairARt and is called Sayen. Sayen was designed by Sebass Easterwood and sells for L$220 for one color. Sayen means sweet and lovely in the language of the Mapuche, a native american people indigenous to Chile. This hair style must give me a 1950 retro look. I have been told by various people that I look like Audrey Hepburn, Leslie Caron, and Elizabeth Taylor in this hair. Of course, I'm so flattered and thrilled when people say my avatar reminds them of those classic Hollywood lovelies. What avatar wouldn't be?

House of Rage
http://slurl.com/secondlife/The%20Regis/224/49/24

HairARt
http://slurl.com/secondlife/FANTASTIC/112/104/75

The outdoor scenes in this picture collection were taken at World's End Garden. The two interior backgrounds are taken in my Heritage Park mansion in Ocelot Valley.

World's End Garden
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Dernier%20Lamento/104/136/21

I came across Alecto and the House of Rage in the fashion blog of my good friend Meimei Shiu. MeiMei modeled Alecto and other outfits for House of Rage. She looks fabulous. See for your self and take a look at her blog.

Meimei Shiu

http://meimeishiu.wordpress.com/

Related Post:
Whom the Angels Name Lanore (April 17, 2011)
http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2011/04/whom-angels-name-lenore.html

Theme from Sleepy Hollow - some music to listen to while viewing this post

Autumn Nymph

2011-11-04T02:00:00.006-04:00

Autumn Nymph at Vita's Boudoir

The Fall Season is officially here, and, right on cue, the trees are donning their colorful autumn regalia. It's a spectacular show, and I'm joining in and becoming part of the dazzling fall foliage wearing this fanciful woodland costume aptly named Autumn Nymph.

Click on the pictures to enlarge them for better viewing.

My impersonation of Sandro Botticelli's The Birth of Venus

Autumn Nymph was designed by Precious Restless, skin and fashion designer and co-owner with her sister of Vita's Boudoir. Precious and her twin sister, Vitabella Dubrovna, are renowned real life fashion designers and owners of a popular boutique in Zagreb, Croatia also called Boudoir. Autumn Nymph comes with shirt, panties, 2 autumn leaves attachments, and an autumn hat. I am not wearing the autumn hat; although I will show it later in the post. I wanted to enhance the mystical quality of the look by wearing a head cover from another pastoral costume from Vita's Boudoir called Pandora Festive Outfit. In my post on that costume, I describe the head cover as 'spirit tree seeds floating on diaphanous parachutes of gossamer fluff that form a magical garland adorning one's head.' It was perfect for the look that I wanted to create.

She wouldn't put poison ivy in this dress, would she? No, that's not like Precious. Not intentionally.

In Greek mythology, nymphs were minor nature goddesses, spirits of nature, who were closely associated with the places they inhabited. To the ancient Greeks, the wonders of nature were surely manifestations of the divine, and the sensations of awe, delight, and even terror evoked by a phenomena of nature were attributed to the presiding deity. In these pictures, I am a Dryades, one of the beautiful nymphs of trees, forests, and sacred groves. Dryades never die of old age; but, their life force is closely tied to trees that spring from the earth at their birth. The Dryades are the guardians of their trees and as they flourish, so do they. But should the trees die, their guardian nymphs perish with them. Nymphs are often depicted as nubile maidens given to dance and song and to amorous romps with satyrs, their male counterparts. Hmmm ... but that's only a myth.

My hair is from EMO-tions and is called Magdalena. Magdalena was designed by Mirja Mills, owner of EMO-tions. As I remarked in my last post, EMO-tions has a large collection of styles and designs, many are exceptional. Magdalena is priced at L$245 for a single color.

This is the colorful autumn hat that is included with the outfit. Isn't it a sumptuous celebration of Fall? It also comes with this animated squirrel! Thank goodness that you can wear the hat with or without the rodent.

This picture has become one of my favorite self portraits.

Vita's Boudoir
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Bonaire12/161/130/997

EMO-tions
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Hells%20End/153/159/25

I wanted a fairy tale look for the background in these pictures. The giant mushrooms found along a stream in Bewitched - Haunted Dark Forest fit the bill. Bewitched - Haunted Dark Forest was formerly known as the Bentham Forest and is in a new location. These pictures are windlight free.

Bewitched - Haunted Dark Forest, Elven Mist

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Elven%20Mist/29/18/23

Previous Posts for Vita's Boudoir:

Tra la It's May (May 1, 2011)
http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2011/05/tra-la-its-may.html

Creme Brulee (June 6, 2010)
http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2010/05/creme-brulee.html

Avatar Inspired Second Life Fashion at Boudoir (February 22, 2010)
http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2010/02/avatar-inspired-second-life-fashion-at.html

New for Fall - MEB Bea

2011-10-10T02:00:00.009-04:00

Bea from the MEB 2011 Fall/Winter Collection

In my native Hawaii, we have only two seasons - winter and summer, if you can call them that. Basically, the difference between the two is that the weather gets a little cooler, a little hotter, a little wetter, a little dryer. In the islands, the climate is always mild. It's paradise, after all. But, since I've been going to school in the Northeast and experiencing real changes in the seasons, all four of them, autumn has become my favorite time of year. I glory in the cool, crisp air, in the vibrancy of the yellows, oranges and reds of a sunlit foliage, and in the ectasy of falling leaves. And I'll gladly suffer the chiding of my friends for shuffling my feet through the piles of fallen leaves and kicking them into the air. Having never enjoyed such autumnal delights in my childhood, they can forgive me for indulging in them now. But...I am not unaffected by the barren landscapes and gray skies of late autumn. In the quiet twilight of evening, they evoke a pleasant melancholy that invites introspection and perhaps, just perhaps, stirs a longing to find contentment in the arms of someone special.

Click on the pictures to enlarge them for better viewing.

With the change in seasons, there's excitement in the air as Second Life fashionistas and fashion aficionados greet the arrival of the new fall fashions. Especially exciting for me is the release of the MEB 2011 Fall/Winter Collection by my favorite Italian fashion designer and friend, MariaElena Barbosa, owner of MEB Fashion. The collection is stylish, sexy, and so flattering. There is so much to choose from. But I chose to highlight a lovely casual outfit from the collection called Bea. Why Bea? Because it's a charming little number that's sure to catch the eye of a special someone; yet, it's playful enough to wear when romping and stomping through those piles of autumn leaves.

Bea comes with a blood red, short chiodo suede jacket, gray tank top, and gray flexy skirt. Best of all, it also comes with these long black boots. Oh, by the way, a chiodo jacket is Italian for a bikers jacket. Bea is priced at L$450.

My hair is from EMO-tions and is called Fresh. Fresh was designed by Mirja Mills, owner of EMO-tions. EMO-tions has a large collection of styles, and the designs and textures are first rate. Fresh is priced at L$245 for a single color. That is high priced for just one solitary color and not a set of shades in that color. But good hair is hard to find, and I own a number of hair styles from EMO-tions. But at that price, I am more particular and buy fewer items than when shopping at a hair shop that offers more for the same price or even more at a somewhat higher price.

MEB FashionMain Store

http://slurl.com/secondlife/KLIO/86/200/23

EMO-tions

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Hells%20End/153/159/25

Photos were taken at Provence Coeur and at the residence of my dear friend Jaysun Dagger.

Provence Coeur

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Provence%20Coeur/29/189/24

Previous Posts for MEB Fashion:

Princess Anna (November 16, 2010)

http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2010/11/princess-anna_16.html

From the MEB Spring Collection - Vogue (March 2, 2010)

http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2010/03/from-meb-spring-collection-vogue.html

MEB Photo Contest Winner (November 15, 2009)

http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2009/11/meb-photo-contest-winner.html

MEB Anette at Mimi's Choice (August 21,2009)

http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2009/08/meb-anette-at-mimis-choice.html

I hope that you enjoyed this look at MEB Bea. Take a trip to the main store of MEB Fashion and see the other wonderful outfits in the 2011 Fall/Winter Collection. You're sure to find some fashion magic there that's just perfect for you.

Deadly Sexy

2011-08-21T20:40:00.002-04:00

I love black lace. And I look so sexy in catsuits. So, naturally, I wanted a black lacy catsuit. Wouldn't you know it, I found exactly what I wanted, and it's aptly called Deadly Sexy. Now, I'm ready to go on the prowl.

Click on the pictures to enlarge them for better viewing.

Deadly Sexy is the creation of KiRaDaRk Jigsaw, fashion designer and owner of PeKas Design. PeKas Design specializes in Gorean fashions; but, the collection ranges widely from fantasy to casual to formal. The outfits are extremely well done with great detail and design. Deadly Sexy comes with shirt, pants, undershirt, underpants, a belted skirt, gloves, and arm warmers. It is priced at L$250.

Darkness Falls at Pandemonium is a wonderfully spooky place that provided these highly atmospheric backgrounds for the pictures. The misty forests and swamps of Darkness Falls are made to order for this prowling feral feline. But be very cautious. The place is delightfully haunted.

I'm wearing Deadly Sexy without the belted skirt to get that the sleek feline look that I want.

This is the complete outfit with the belted skirt. It's also a great look.

My hair is once again from [kik] hair and is called Fine. Although the collection of styles at [kik] is small, the hair designs are wonderful, and the quality is equal to the best that I have seen in Second Life. Each color set sells for L$100. A six color pack is available for L$300 and a 12 color pack for L$450.

My earrings are from Mandala and are from the store's third anniversary collection called Kabuki. The earrings come in a set of four styles that sells for L$347. They are designed by the store's owner, Kikunosuke eel.

PeKas Design:
http://pekasdesigns.blogspot.com/

[kik] main store:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Rhizome/135/70/33

Mandala:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/TEMPURA%20SOBA/93/109/23

Darkness Falls at Pandemonium:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Bentham%20Hollow/106/134/21

Related Post:

Avatar Inspired Fashion at Boudoir (February 22, 2010)
http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2010/02/avatar-inspired-second-life-fashion-at.html

Established ... Just Because

2011-08-08T09:00:00.003-04:00

Established at Just Because

To establish – to bring about, to gain full recognition, to put beyond doubt. To be established is to have achieved all that. And Established by Annie Melson, fashion designer and owner of Just Because, is a statement of who you are and what you made of yourself. Established tells him that you're confident and independent. 'I know where I've been, and I'll get to where I'm going'. 'You're with a strong and undeniably sexy woman.'

Click on the pictures to enlarge them for better viewing.

Well, that's quite a statement I must say. I've been featuring a lot of great leather outfits recently. But this one is truly exceptional. The attention to detail gives this leather jacket a realism that is unsurpassed. Such fine craftsmanship is a hallmark of Annie Melson's collection at Just Because. But it is the casual grace of the whole look that is creating wonderful fashion magic. In the world of Second Life fashion, Established would certainly get my vote for the title of Best New Outfit of the month. Girls, it really is a must have item for your fashion wardrobe.

Established comes with a leather jacket with sculpted sleeves, coat bottom, and collar, a black button down shirt in all layers with sculpted rolled sleeves and collar, *JB* Original Brown Jeans with sculpted pant bottom prims - relaxed and cuffed, and a sculpted prim dark brown belt. Established is available at Just Because for L$450. At the Just Because store in world , you can choose which permissions you want. You can choose this outfit in Copy/Mod or in Mod/Transfer, so you can buy for yourself or for that special person in your life. Gift boxes are available to make your gift giving all the easier.

Established can also be worn without the leather jacket for another great look.

The black shirt with rolled sleeves can be worn tucked in or untucked.

The hair that I am wearing is from [kik] hair and is called Olive. Each color set sells for L$100. A six color pack is available for L$300 and a 12 color pack for L$450. My necklace is from Vox, and it's from the Vox Golden Lucidity Jewelry Set designed by Eidolon Aeon. The Lucidity Jewelry Set sells for L$390.

Just Because store at Warwick:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/The%20Warwick/145/35/25

[kik] main store:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Rhizome/135/70/33

Vox:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Mugunghwa/119/228/876

These pictures were taken at the German Castle Ruins in Deutsche Burgruine, Frisch. The pictures are windlight free.

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Frisch/175/182/78

Related Post:

City of Darkness (February 14, 2011)
http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2011/02/city-of-darkness.html

.

Patchwork Colorful

2011-06-17T19:30:00.004-04:00

I've become so relaxed since returning home to Hawaii after graduation. I've been spending mornings leisurely walking the beaches and becoming reacquainted with paradise. I was so winter pale when I arrived in the islands that I look like a tourist, so says my sister. So I'm also working on a tropical tan, and it's coming along gorgeously. And now I want a new colorful dress in Second Life to match my happy mood. Look what I found at Nils Island Store. It certainly is colorful and eye catching isn't it. It's called Nilsy Beaded Patch Leather Dress.

Click on the pictures to enlarge them for better viewing.

I wanted colorful and found it in abundance at Nils Island Store. The dresses are as bright and vibrant as a tropical island and very sexy. The store has a large collection which includes tropical dresses, formals, casuals, retro, and even winter outfits. Nilsy Beaded Leather Patch dress was designed by nils Tomorrow, owner of Nils Island store, and sells for L$300. I just love this patchwork and these ruffled sleeves. When wearing this dress, I'm constantly being asked where I got it. It definitely attracts a lot of attention.

For the photo shoot, I took the outfit to Cerridwen's Cauldron main gallery, a floating island owned and designed by Elicio Ember. Cerridwen's Cauldron specializes in fantasy plants, many of which are interactive and even carnivorous, and the gallery reflects Ember's interests in science, nature, myths, and magick. I think that you'll agree that Nilsy Beaded Leather Patch dress looks fabulous against this lush fantasy jungle and in the gallery's Tower of Dawn.

My hair is from DrLife and is called Ju. DrLife's hair employs a fantastic color technology which consists of 11 color textures and 10 filters that can be combined using the menu to create over 100 different colors. Ju sells for L$350.

NILS Island Store, Saint Lucia
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Saint%20Lucia/247/126/22

DrLife Skins and Hair are available at Mariko in Mont Saint Michel

Mariko
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Mont%20Saint%20Michel/228/117/31

The photos are taken at Cerridwen's Cauldron

Cerridwen's Cauldron Main Gallery, Floating Islands
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Griffin/73/123/674

Related Posts:

Avatar Inspired Fashion at Boudoir (February 22, 2010)
http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2010/02/avatar-inspired-second-life-fashion-at.html

Fire and Ice

2011-05-27T22:40:00.006-04:00

Some say the world will end in fire

Some say in ice.

From what I've tasted of desire

I hold with those who favor fire.

But if I had to perish twice,

I think I know enough of hate

To say that for destruction ice

Is also great

And would suffice.

Fire and Ice by Robert Frost

A dear friend gave me this attitude provoking leather outfit as a graduation present. I liked it so much that I wanted to feature it in my blog and so went looking for an edgy sim for photo backgrounds. I took a peek at a new dystopian post-apocalyptic role play sim called Thinis and was just totally floored by its stark visuals of a world cleansed by nuclear fire. The opening stanza of the poem Fire and Ice by Robert Frost immediately came to my mind. I thought that it might be very evocative to juxtaposition the alternative ends of the world suggested in the poem - fire and ice. I hope that you like the results.

Click on the pictures to enlarge them for better viewing.

This outfit is called XTC Constrictor Leather Catsuit. Constrictor was designed by Xaviar Thunders, owner of XTC Leather - Xaviar Thunders Clothing where it sells for L$400. XTC Leather makes realistic leather clothing for men and women. Constrictor comes with leather pants, gloves, and two leather tops - zipped and a sexy unzipped. My hair is from CaTwA and is called Reem Flexy Hair Style. Reem was designed by Catwa Clip and sells for L$250 per color set.

XTC Leather
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Burning%20Moon/45/106/38

CaTwA
http://slurl.com/secondlife/CaTwA/128/9/22

Fire was photographed at Thinis
Thinis
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Thinis/122/186/24

Ice was photographed at Ethereal Nature Winter Market Place
Ethereal Nature Winter Market Place
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Loire%20Valley/45/193/68

Related Posts:
City of Darkness (February 14, 2011)
http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2011/02/city-of-darkness.html

Tra la it's May

2011-05-01T23:37:00.005-04:00

Picnic Chic by Boudoir

Let's see ... May Day ... a spring festival celebrating renewal and fertility. That sounds about right. It is that time of year, afterall. And we want to be at our prettiest and be most attractive. Spring flirtations can become summer romances. Well, I just found the prettiest spring dress at Boudoir. It's called Picnic Chic.

Click on the pictures to enlarge them for better viewing.

Picnic Chic is designed by Precious Restless, skin and fashion designer and co-owner of Boudoir. It sells for L$550. Picnic Chic is absolutely the cutest thing. It comes with a blouse, skirt, and hat. The whites and pastels of the dress are so refreshing. But, it's the hat that makes this outfit so irresistable.

The Royal Wedding has made hats the latest rage. This hat is a must have in Second Life. Have you ever seen a more gorgeous hat? Its abundance of spring flowers makes it a fabulous celebration of the season.

My hair is from ARGRACE and is called Wish. It was designed by rika Oyen. Wish comes in nine colors - black, dark brown, light brown, red, copper, amber, platinum, blonde and dark blonde. They sell for L$250 per color. All nine colors are available in a fat pack for L$1500.

My necklace, earrings, and ring are from a collection called Sakura created by Alienbear Gupte, jewellry designer and owner of Alienbear's Designs. They are a graduation gift to me from my dear friend Stevie.

Boudoir:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Bonaire12/161/130/997

ARGRACE Mainstore

http://slurl.com/secondlife/shin%20zushi/150/162/26

Alienbear's Designs
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Bratz/181/203/29

The photos were taken at Opar, my personal estate. All visitors to Opar are my welcomed guests.

Opar
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Opar/30/140/26

Previous Posts for Vita's Boudoir:

Creme Brulee (June 6, 2010)

http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2010/05/creme-brulee.html

Avatar Inspired Second Life Fashion at Boudoir (February 22, 2010)

http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2010/02/avatar-inspired-second-life-fashion-at.html

Tra la, it's May, the lusty month of May

That lovely month when everyone goes blissfully astray

Tra la, it's here, that shocking time of year

When tons of wicked little thoughts merrily appear.

From Camelot by Lerner and Loewe

Tra la la la la

Happy May Day Everyone

Whom the Angels Name Lenore

2011-04-17T22:30:00.009-04:00

Dream-like images of the romantic hold a fascination for me. Myths and folklore. Scenes of ruined landscapes. Ancient estates and families, once thriving, now long fallen into decay. Dark Bryonic scions of aristocracy struggling with hidden secrets, inner conflicts, and repressed passions. Hauntingly lovely, yet fragile, heroines who are drawn to their fates like moths to an all consuming flame. The rational giving way to the irrational and the fantastic. It's a deliciously atmospheric mix. This collection of pictures presented here is my hopeful evocation of romanticism and a portrait of 'the rare and radiant maiden whom the angles name Lenore.'

Click on the pictures to enlarge them for better viewing.

                 Deep into that darkness peering, long I stood there wondering, fearing,
                 Doubting, dreaming dreams no mortals ever dared to dream before

And this maiden she lived with no other thought

Than to love and be loved by me.

All that we see or seem

Is but a dream within a dream.

                       Ah, distinctly I remember it was in the bleak December,
                       And each separate dying ember wrought its ghost upon the floor.
                       Eagerly I wished the morrow;--vainly I had sought to borrow
                       From my books surcease of sorrow--sorrow for the lost Lenore--
                       For the rare and radiant maiden whom the angels name Lenore--
                       Nameless here for evermore.

                       Excerpts from The Raven, Annabel Lee and A Dream within a Dream
                       by Edgar Allan Poe

I found this wonderful dress for my Lost Lenore at Shiki, in their 50% off discount room. It's called The Vermillion Dress. It was designed by Shinichi Mathy, ower of Shiki Designs, and is on sale for L$300. The Vermillion dress comes complete with a short sculpted skirt, sculpted sheeves with ribbons, a ribbon belt, and a long flexi prim skirt with a beaded belt. I was initially atracted by the dress's japanese chrysanthemum print - which is a well-known japanese textile design. Although, not a historical period fashion, it worked so well in evoking a romantic sense of innocence and delicate beauty that I wanted for Lenore.

And this hair is so perfect for this dress and for my Lenore. It's the latest hair from DrLife and is called Qian. DrLife's hair employs a fantastic color technology which consists of 11 color textures and 10 filters that can be combined using the menu to create over 100 different colors. Qian sells for L$350.

Shiki Designs

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Shiki/125/143/23

DrLife Skins and Hair are available at Mariko in Mont Saint Michel

Mariko

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Mont%20Saint%20Michel/228/117/31

The pictures were taken in the grotto under the Villa Vesuiana in Westphalia. These photos are windlight free

Principato di Melioria, Villa Vesuiana in Westphalia

http://slurl.com/secondlife//186/107/30

Fashion from Miss Virtual World - Miss Philippines by AlaFolie

2011-02-28T08:45:00.008-05:00

View of Venice from the Ponte di Rialto - Dressed in Miss Philippines by AlaFolie

Miss Virtual World is the premiere beauty contest in Second Life. The finalists in the contest all have sterling pedigrees in the Second Life fashion industry - all are popular models in the top agencies and are graduates of the prestigious modeling academies. The pageant that crowns the new Miss Virtual World is a feast for connoisseurs of fashion. Some of the finest designers in Second Life create the outfits worn by the finalists in the pageant, and their creations are eye-popping fabulous. One that especially caught my eye this year was designed by Pixivor Allen of AlaFolie for Fuzz Lennie, Miss Philippines, 2011. Naturally, this stunning fashion creation is called Miss Philippines in her honor.

Click on the pictures to enlarge them for better viewing.

Silvery sequined Miss Philippines is shimmering excitement. And Fuzz Lennie was absolutely breathtaking in this outfit; indeed, as any girl would be. I love how its low cut and form fitting elegance grace my curves and combine with strands of sequins to conjure irresistible magic. Delighted would be that special someone that falls under its spell. Miss Philippines comes in three versions: Club (version 1), Formal (version 2), and Mini (version 3). I am wearing and featuring the Club version of Miss Philippines. Each version sells at AlaFolie for L$1000. All three are available for L$2000. Group members get a discount.

Midnight Rendezvous

The hair that I am wearing is from DrLife and is called BaoChai. BaoChai was designed by dear friend Leena Ying and sells for L$350. The skin that I am wearing is also from DrLife. Leena creates the absolute Best Skins in Second Life. Their artistry and details are unsurpassed by any other skin designer. I wear DrLife skins exclusively.

Fascination in Venice

I have already attended a number of events dressed in Miss Philippines. Let me tell you, you'll make a grand entrance in Miss Philippines. I am so thrilled to have this outfit in my wardrobe, and I know that you will be too.

AlaFolie

http://slurl.com/secondlife/AlaFolie/138/145/38

DrLife Skins and Hair are available at Mariko in Mont Saint Michel

Mariko

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Mont%20Saint%20Michel/228/117/31

The pictures were taken at Venice Venezia and Villas de Revello. Venice Venezia is an astonishing recreation of the city of Venice that is amazing in its details. These photos are windlight free.

Venice Venezia Showcase City

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Prada/118/86/30

Villas de Revello

http://slurl.com/secondlife//141/191/31

City of Darkness

2011-02-14T02:30:00.006-05:00

Loshi by GothiCatz

There's something about the look and feel of leather that is so irresistible. Maybe because it's so evocative. Leather is attitude, confidence, individualism, and rebellion. And maybe because I look so darn hot and sexy in leather. Well, I always have my eye out for that magical leather outfit. So look at what I found at GothiCatz. It's called Loshi.

Click on the pictures to enlarge them for better viewing.

Created by Looloo Beck, designer and owner of GothiCatz, Loshi has a powerful look that is dark and post apocalyptic. Loshi comes with a highly detailed, tight leather jacket with sculpted folded up sleeves, a black feather collar, and matching pants with sculpted cuffs and belt. It has deletable menu driven resizers and sells for L$520. Loshi shouts High Adventure! Well, I was up for it. So donning the outfit, I set out looking for danger and intrigue in the Walled City of Kowloon.

Nightfire in the Walled City

Kowloon, The Walled City, in Second Life

Infamous and shadowy, the Walled City of Kowloon was an accident of history, a no-man’s land situated between China and the New Territories of British Hong Kong. Originally, a Chinese outpost with formidable defensive walls, the fort was attacked and briefly occupied by the British in 1899 which established a tenuous British claim on the city. During WWII, the Japanese tore down the walls and used the material to build nearby Kai Tak Airport. After the Japanese surrender, the city was left totally ungoverned as neither the Chinese nor the British exercised control. The Walled City became a haven for criminals and fell under the control of organized crime syndicates known as Triads. The city was infamous for its many brothels, gambling parlors, opium dens, and unlicensed doctors and dentists. Yet, it offered a unique freedom that attracted 33,000 residents to its 6.5 acres. The Walled City grew rapidly into a dystopian megacity. Buildings were constructed on top of each other, and they merged to form a single solid block of construction that reached a uniform height of about 10 stories. The construction was so dense that the city’s lower levels never saw sunlight and had to be illuminated by fluorescent lights. It was a City of Darkness. In the 1970’s, a series of massive police raids broke the control of the Triads. In 1987, the Chinese and British jointly agreed that the decaying city should be torn down. In 1994, the Walled City was demolished and replaced with a public park.

I hope you enjoyed this look at Loshi by GothiCatz. If you have a taste for high adventure, head out to GothiCatz and get acquainted with Loshi. And then set sail for Kowloon, a Second Life treasure, and explore the alleys of that City of Darkness.

GothiCatz

http://slurl.com/secondlife/GothiCatz/121/82/23

Kowloon in Second Life

http://slurl.com/secondlife//144/10/24

Video: City of Darkness - Life in Kowloon, The Walled City

Russian Snow Princess, Encore

2011-01-06T22:10:00.003-05:00

Russian Snow Princess at Lemania Indigo Designs

The highlight of winter in Second Life are the gorgeous winter scenes found on many of the sims, islands, and properties in the virtual world. They provided me a welcomed opportunity to create a new set of photos of my favorite winter fashion - Russian Snow Princess. This outfit is a wonderful period piece that seems inspired by Tolstoy's Russia. Last year, I featured Russian Snow Princess in this blog, and it continues to be one of my most popular posts. But, I was so pleased with these new pictures that I wanted to share them with you. Well, I thought, why not bring back Russian Snow Princess for another performance? She deserves an encore and another bow. So allow me to present once again for your enjoyment, Russian Snow Princess

Click on the pictures to enlarge them to their original size for better viewing.

Mariko Nightfire as Anna Karenina

Russian Snow Princess was designed by the marvelous Lemania Indigo, prolific designer and owner of Lemania Indigo Designs. Russian Snow Princess comes with corset, pants, gloves, stockings, footwear, a fur hat and a number of fur pieces, a flowing flexy skirt, and a prim skirt. It currently sells for L$495. You can create a number of different looks with this outfit. For a more complete description of Russian Snow Princess, please visit my original Russian Snow Princess post.

First Snowfall

About the pictures. Usually, when taking pictures for a fashion post, I use default settings so that the fashions are presented as most people will see them in Second Life. However, with these pictures, I wanted to use the winter backgrounds to create moods. To manipulate the color shading, lighting, and contrast of the backgrounds, I went off the default settings. But, in none of these pictures do I use windlight. By windlight, I am referring to atmospheric shaders.

Windlight is used by Second Life photographers to create sumptuous atmospheric and lighting effects. It's great for landscape photography. But, when the picture's subject and center of attention is avatars, I rarely use windlight especially when I want realism. Windlight does not favor avatars. It's harsh light can remove up to fifty percent of the details of a finely crafted skin. That is why avatars will look like cartoons or plastic dolls under windlight. We are all familiar with that flashlight-in-your-face plastic look that we see in many SL pictures. Now, I understand that some people do like a cartoony look for their avatars. But, in general, avatars under windlight are cold and lifeless, just like a store mannequin. In these pictures, I applied various sky settings in the environmental settings, just like using windlight, but with atmospheric shaders turned off. I am also wearing a soft facelight with a narrow range. I get the mood creating backgrounds that I want. And my avatar is warmer and softer and light falls on me more realistically than under windlight.

Windlight or not, Russian Snow Princess is magical isn't it? Get it at Lemania Indigo Designs while it is still in season. And experiment taking portrait pictures of your avatars without windlight. You may be surprised at how lovely your avatars really are.

Lamania Indigo Designs Main Store

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Lemania/190/187/58

Pictures were taken at Ocelot Valley, designed and owned by Painter Meriman, at Cap Estel, a wonderful public park designed and owned by Maurice Messme, and at the residence of my dear friend, Jaysun Dagger.

Ocelot Valley
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Ocelot%20Valley/108/175/25

Cap Estel

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Cap%20Estel/198/136/26

Original Post for Russian Snow Princess

http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2009/12/russian-snow-princess.html

A Classic Christmas Rose

2010-12-16T13:45:00.002-05:00

Christmas Rose by G Sloane Couture

I love fashions that capture a time and place. And what better time than the joyous Christmas Holiday and what better place than a nostalgic bygone era to which we yearn to return if not for a visit. Christmas Rose is a sumptuous and elegant holiday dress that truly captures those Classic Christmases of yesterday and brings them to our own time. I adore this dress. And I'll be wearing Christmas Rose throughout the holiday season in Second Life. This charming outfit was designed by Geryn Sloane, owner of G Sloane Couture. You can find Christmas Rose in the Christmas Shop located on the third floor of flagship store. Santa Claus is there too. Be sure to sit on Santa's lap to recieve a free gift.

Click on the pictures to enlarge them for better viewing.

I have recieved such glowing compliments wearing this dress. Christmas Rose comes with a rose shirt with fur cuffs, a Christmas ribbon skirt, a golden sash, and a golden neckwrap. It seems like it was designed with a gorgeous gift wrapping for a Christmas present in mind. Christmas Rose sells for L$500.

I do feel like a beautifully wrapped Christmas present in this outfit. Saying that, I can just hear my more flirtatious male friends (you know who are) saying that they can't wait to unwrap this present. Well, naughty boys don't receive presents on Christmas. They get coal in their stockings and a right cross to their jaws.

The Christmas Fashion Wreath that I am wearing about my hair was designed by Precious Restless, skin and fashion designer and co-owner, with her real life twin sister Vitabela Dubrovna, of Boudoir. This wreath is a free holiday gift from Boudoir. It's wonderful, isn't it. Thank you Precious and Vitabela.

G Sloane Couture Flagship Store:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Cedarwood/234/45/24

Boudoir:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Bonaire12/161/130/997

Photos were taken at my home community of Ocelot Valley and at the residence of my dear friend, Jaysun Dagger

Ocelot Valley:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Ocelot%20Valley/108/175/25

Related Post:

Russian Snow Princess (December 17, 2009)

http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2009/12/russian-snow-princess.html

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them; and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

Glory to God in the highest,

and on earth peace,

good will toward men.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Princess Anna

2010-11-16T00:30:00.004-05:00

Princess Anna by MEB Fashion

The MEB 2010 Winter Collection from MEB Fashion was officially released earlier this week. There's always excitement around the release of the seasonal collections of MEB's owner and designer, MariaElena Barbosa. Oh, I may have built up the wrong expectations for this post. No, I'm not featuring items from the Winter Collection today; but, they are exciting. Look for them in future posts - guaranteed. What I want to blog, while autumn is still in the air, is my very favorite outfit from the 2010 Fall Collection. Its a delightful creation called Princess Anna.

Princess Anna is exactly what I want and expect from Italian fashion. It's smart and stylish. It's playful and sexy. And it's so flattering on me. Can an outfit be all these things? Well, you tell me. Princess Anna will have you answering with an emphatic yes. Princess Anna sells for L$490 at MEB Fashion.

Click on the pictures to enlarge them for better viewing.

Where to photograph a princess? At Le Mont Saint Michel, of course. Mont Saint Michel is a Second Life treasure. It is an accurate and full size replication of the famous tidal island in Northern France. This small rocky islet was consecrated to the Archangel Saint Michel in 708 AD and is famous for its Benedictine abby, a 13th century Gothic masterpiece, towering over 500 feet above the sea. Mont Saint Michel is actually an outcropping of granite conspicuously jutting out of a vast sandbank and exposed to powerful tides that can rush in over the tidal flats at speeds, famously described by Victor Hugo, ‘as swift as a galloping horse.’ The rocky islet is entirely surrounded by water twice a month, becoming a tidal island. The actions of the tides give Mont Saint Michel a wonderful mystical quality. I wanted to photograph Princess Anna with the medieval charm of the island's village as a backdrop. I hope you like the result.

The hair that I am wearing is from DrLife and is called Leena. Leena was designed by Leena Ying and sells for L$350. With Leena, you get 9 hair colors which you can select from a menu.

Strolling and Shopping on the Grand Rue at Mont Saint Michel

Well, didn't I tell you that Princess Anna is all that. And there's more fashion magic at MEB Fashion. Be sure to catch the new 2010 MEB Winter Collection. I'll be blogging my favorites from the collection. So stay tuned.

MEB Fashion Main Store

http://slurl.com/secondlife/KLIO/86/200/23

DrLife Skins and Hair are available at Mariko in Mont Saint Michel

Mariko

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Mont%20Saint%20Michel/228/117/31

Previous posts for MEB Fashion:

From the MEB Spring Collection - Vogue (March 2, 2010)

http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2010/03/from-meb-spring-collection-vogue.html

MEB Photo Contest Winner (November 15, 2009)

http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2009/11/meb-photo-contest-winner.html

MEB Anette at Mimi's Choice (August 21,2009)

http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2009/08/meb-anette-at-mimis-choice.html

Learn more about Le Mont Saint Michel in Second Life

http://mariko-nightfire.blogspot.com/2009/11/le-mont-saint-michel-in-second-life.html

Posing in front of Mariko, my fashion boutique in Mont Saint Michel

Pretty Lilly

2010-10-31T20:20:00.001-04:00

Lilly by ALB Dream Fashion

I stopped by ALB Dream Fashion to pick up the monthly gift for the store's group members. Store owner and fashion designer extraordinaire, Analee Balut, gives her very devoted group members the most generous gifts. The store is also a joy to shop in - tasteful, airy, and set in an exotic North African desert. Much of her fashions are influenced and inspired by the color and cultures of Africa. The designs are some of the most exciting in Second Life. When wandering about the store, a new collection of dresses caught my attention. Called Lilly, my first reaction was to draw in my breath and exclaim, 'Oh, how pretty'. Pretty they are indeed. Lilly is very fresh and very today, yet has a delightful redolence of nostalgia. Lilly would be just the thing for those occasions when we want to be feminine, soft, and pretty ... very pretty.

Lilly come in seven colors - turquoise, red, khaki, black, blue, violet, white. It sells for sells for L$390. All seven colors are available in a fatback for L$1500. I bought all colors. Readers of my blog - Mariko Nightfire: A Virtual Life - know that my beloved community of Hallelujah Azul recently closed. For this post, I photographed Lilly at various locations around Hallelujah Azul to preserve one last look at my long-time home.

Mmmmm Yummy in Pink.

The strawberry ice cream at the Bumble Cafe is yummy too.

Surprised in Blue.

When running into that special someone,

it's best to be pleasantly surprised in blue.

Lilly in Black.

Sophisticated and Knowing.

He won't keep me waiting long. I'm in turquoise.

A Red Cherry Swirl goes so well with cupcakes and tea at the Brazen Tarts.

Lilly in White. Lovely.

My hair is from ARGRACE and is called Soft Breeze. It was designed by rika Oyen. Soft Breeze comes in nine colors - black, dark brown, light brown, red, copper, amber, platinum, blonde and dark blonde. They sell for L$250 per color. All nine colors are available in a fat pack for L$1500.

My townhouse in the Garden District. Goodbye.

ALB Dream Fashion
http://slurl.com/secondlife/LAMU%20ISLAND/183/74/40

ARGRACE Mainstore

http://slurl.com/secondlife/shin%20zushi/150/162/26

Chinese Brush Painting

2010-09-19T10:20:00.005-04:00

China, A Chinese Brush Painted Sim

Second Life offers many artistic pleasures; the best of which explore the potential within virtual worlds to be uniquely entertained and enlightened by the arts. In Second Life, I've experienced paintings by Vincent Van Gogh and Salvador Dali that have been rendered into three dimensions in our virtual space. So, rather than merely viewing the painting, one can actually enter the work, wander about its composition, and interact with its objects. Imagine walking about Vincent Van Gogh's Bedroom at Arles, viewing the room from all perspectives, and plopping down on Van Gogh's bed. It was great fun.

Click on the pictures to enlarge them for better viewing

But the most immersive art experience that I have had in Second Life was not an immersion in a particular work of art but immersion in an particular art form, that of Chinese Brush Painting. Chinese brush painting has a long history dating back to 2000 BC . Its techniques were codified in the 5th Century A.D. by the venerated master Hsieh Ho. Chinese brush painting emerged from calligraphy, considered by the Chinese as the highest art form, and utilizes strokes of a brush dipped in black or colored ink. The artist paints with rapid brush strokes; some are strong and some are light, some are thick and some are thin, and some are wet and some are dry. Each stroke is defining and never elaborated. The spirit (chi) of the artist flows from within and animates the movements of the brush. A master paints with authority and a spontaneity that captures the essence of the subject.

Above the China sim in Second Life is an encapsulated world where the virtual reality is that of brush painted impressions. Its not a world of realism; but one of essence. We walk among translucent shadows that are groves of bamboo in our mind's eye. In the distance, a dark shadow is a fisherman's shack set a shore of a lake whose rippling waters recede into the horizon. Above us is an ink washed sky. It's otherworldly; but hauntingly beautiful.

I showcased myself against this beautiful background because I want to introduce you to an updated look to my avatar. Many people express their creativity through the design of their avatars. Some of my friends change their shapes and skins so frequently that I recognize them chiefly by their name tags and not by their avatar. To me, my avatar is not a fashion accessory. Its design captures the essence of 'Mariko'. I am intimately familar with this essence. I know it when I see it. It's an important part of what defines me in Second Life. I've updated my avatar only once before. And any update must capture that essence.

Leena Ying, the owner of DrLife, is the greatest designer of avatars in Second Life. Her artistry is unsurpassed, and DrLife Skins are the best in Second Life. Leena is my oldest and dearest friend in this virtual world. She is the primary designer of my avatar. I perform the final tweeks. Leena had been trying to get me to update my avatar for almost a year as the artistry of her skins reached ever higher heights. Time and again, Leena would present me with a new skin. I would put it on; but, always revert back to my old skin. I could tell that this peeved her. But as artistically lovely as these new skins were, they just didn't capture 'Mariko'. Until she persented me this last one. It was close. Each skin has its own peculiarities that must be dealt with. And after countless tweeks and checks against references, 'Mariko' emerged once again. And the artistry is lightyears beyond what I previously had. Bless you, Leena.

The kimono that I'm wearing is from Sweetaholic Kimono Shop and is called Reishoku#black. It was designed by Asalt Eames and devil Babii and sells for L$500. Sweetaholic Kimono Shop has an outstanding collection of kimono and accessories. I love this particular kimono because it looks very much like my mother's kimono, rarely worn and then only for special occasions. It is a family treasure. Reishoku#black also comes with a black feather shawl. The hair that I am wearing is from DrLife and is called Leena. Leena was designed by Leena Ying and sells for L$350. With Leena, you get 9 hair colors which you can select from a menu.

China:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/China/107/100/1994

Sweetaholic Kimono Shop
http://slurl.com/secondlife/grasp/162/179/37

DrLife Skins and Hair are available at Mariko in Mont Saint Michel

Mariko
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Mont%20Saint%20Michel/228/117/31

Videos - Chinese Brush Painting:

We'll Always Have Paris

2010-07-27T15:15:00.054-04:00

Paris by M.E. Fashion

Paris, La Ville Lumière - the City of Light, so named because it was the first city in Europe to illuminate its streets with gas lamps, beginning with the Champs De Elysées in 1828. To the world, the light of Paris is also its cuisine, its artists, museums and monuments, the Opera House, the café society, and, of course, fashion and the pursuit of romance. But, foremost on our minds when we visit the City of Light in Second Life is 'What shall I wear when strolling these Parisian avenues and parks?' My advice is to wear Paris, a delightfully flirty and very Parisian little dress designed by Malegria Ewry, owner of M.E. Fashion.

Click on the pictures to enlarge them for better viewing.

At M.E. Fashion, you’ll find fashions with an emphasis on Fun and Sexy. Wander through the main store and put item after item on your wish list and find Paris on the second floor. Paris comes in six colors - Red, Aqua, Gold, Purple, White, and Silver. Paris is very reasonably priced at L$195. At that price, I bought three colors and will go back for the other three.

Paris Gold on Avenue Montaigne

Avenue Montaigne is Paris' renowned fashion boulevard. Here you'll find elegance, luxury, and a who's who list of prestigious labels like Christian Dior, Valentino, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Inès de la Fressange. Don't even think about the prices. You'll become apoplexic. However, we can always window shop. It's a pleasant and inexpensive way to experience this grande dame of fashion.

Paris Aqua at the Moulin Rouge

When we picture the gaiety of Paris’ nightlife, we think of The Moulin Rouge, the world famous cabaret immortalized by the painter Toulouse-Lautrec and the birthplace of that quintessential Parisian cabaret dance, the Can-Can.

Paris White at night

The hair that I am wearing is from DrLife and is called Bo. Bo was designed by my dear friend Leena Ying, owner of DrLife, and sells for L$350. Bo comes with 9 colors - red, silverin, platinum, honey, blonde, black, brown, golden brown, dark brown - which you select from a menu.

It was fun exploring the Paris sims of Second Life, and I hope that you enjoyed this look at M.E. Fashion's Paris. Don't you just love those peeks of lace. So dress in Paris, and let's catch the show at The Moulin Rouge.

M.E. Fashion Mall

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Fusilier/225/220/24

DrLife Skins and Hair are available at Mariko in Mont Saint Michel

Mariko

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Mont%20Saint%20Michel/228/117/31

Photos were taken at Paris and Paris 1900

Paris - La Tour Eiffel
http://slurl.com/secondlife/La%20Tour%20Eiffel/216/39/30

Paris 1900
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Paris%201900/99/147/25

Related posts:

More or Less (May 14, 2009)
http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2009/05/more-or-less.html

Moulin Rouge: Can-Can

Bogart and Bergman: 'We'll always have Paris' from Casablanca (sigh)

Laterna Magica

MySpace Video

Creme Brulee

2010-06-06T13:00:00.019-04:00

Creme Brulee at Vita's Boudoir

Some desserts are simply irresistable. An elegant creme brulee is definitely one of them. Some fashions are irresistable. And Creme Brulee is also irresistable fashion magic. This dress is just too tempting not to give in to it. Go ahead and indulge yourself. This is a sumptuous creation for the fashion gourmet. Creme Brulee is designed by Vitabela Dubrovna and can be found at Vita's Boudoir where it sells for $650L.

Click on the pictures to enlarge them to their original size for better viewing.

Crème Brulee is French for ‘Burnt Cream’. It’s a sweetened egg custard topped with caramelized sugar. The sugar is traditionally caramelized by direct flame from a kitchen torch. However, some prefer caramelizing by flambéing a hard liquor on it for a great fiery show at the table. It’s a decadent dessert. It’s considered classic French cuisine; but, crème brulee’s origins lie outside of France. Trinity College in England claims the honor. Its Trinity burnt cream dates back to the 1600s. Spain also claims that its traditional crema catalana is the true predecessor of France's crème brulee.

Boudoir's Creme Brulee has that wonderful brown hue of caramelized sugar. Gold leaves accent the skirt. A shrug of gold leaves completes the outfit.

When on the dance floor, remove the gold leaf shrug for a classic look

that is cool and elegant.

Creme Brulee has an attention gathering quotient of 10 on a 10 point scale. I've been totally overwhelmed by all the compliments that came my way, and by such glowing and enthusiastic compliments.

Hair by booN hair

My hair is from booN hair, and it's their HTU132 designed by boo Nakamura. HTU132 is available in 15 different colors. I am wearing gold. It sells for $200L for one color; $500L for a 5 color pack; and $1200L for all 15 colors.

I really enjoyed bringing this fashion magic to you. It was delightful to wear, lovely to photograph, and i was motivate to eat some delicious creme burlee. Be sure to get to Vita's Boudoir for your serving of Creme Burlee.

Vita's Boudoir:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Zora/61/205/303

Saikin and booN hair main store:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/SAIKIN/128/125/699

Photos were taken at Reve de Sable in Essaim.

Reve de sable:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/L%20Essaim/133/138/21

Previous Posts for Vita's Boudoir:

Avatar Inspired Second Life Fashion at Boudoir (February 22, 2010)

http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2010/02/avatar-inspired-second-life-fashion-at.html

A delightful visit to the real life Boudoir in Croatia:

Out of Africa

2010-04-26T12:30:00.022-04:00

Africa by Jador Fashion

I dropped in at Mimi's Choice to see Mimi's selections from the recently released Spring Collection of designer ziamela Loon, owner of Jador Fashion. The collection is a delightful ensemble of fashion magic. I put a number of its sexy formals and colorful casuals on my 'Gotta Have It' list. I only wish my linden dollars were as vast as my fashion wants. But, I had enough lindens in my account to come away with at least one fabulous outfit. And I was particularly intrigued by the possibilities of an outfit from the collection called Africa.

Click on the pictures to enlarge them for better viewing.

Indigo cloth has a long history in sub-saharan Africa dating back to 1200 BC with the Phoenician and Arab trade along the continent's east coast. But it came into its own in the 18th and 19th centuries when European textile manufacturers developed a block and discharge print style on indigo cotton fabric. The discharge printed cloth with its blue hue became an important trade good throughout Africa. In South Africa, this cotton cloth is called shweshwe for the swishing sound it makes when one walks dressed in it. Ladies, our curves will certainly shweshwe dressed in Jador Fashion's delightful Africa.

An intricate traditional African print adorns Africa. Such prints are designed for ceremonies and special occasions such as royal weddings. Africa also comes with lovely ethnic beaded accessories which include a necklace, earrings, bracelets, arm bands, and a belt. The details are exquisite. Africa sells for $450L.

Taking Africa to The Nubian Empire

I knew the look that I wanted to create with Africa - dark toned skin, flashing steely eyes, wild, but gorgeous, hair. I liked the result. And now that I had the look I was after, I searched for an exotic Africa inspired location to photograph the outfit and the look. I choose a fantastic role play sim called The Nubian Empire.

Ancient Nubia was the first great black African kingdom, a civilization as old as Egypt, its neighbor to the north. The histories of Nubia and Egypt are deeply intertwined as are their cultures. Egypt conquered and assimilated Nubian territory in various eras, Egypt’s New Kingdom (1500 BC) in particular. The Nubians in turn conquered Egypt in the 8th century BC and established a dynasty of Nubian pharaohs. Nubians and Egyptians were often so closely related, as the two cultures melded and mixed together, as to be virtually indistinguishable. The Nubian Empire in Second Life showcases this cultural melding and the dominance of Nubia during the rule of the black pharaohs. I had a wonderful time photographing Africa against The Nubian Empire’s monumental builds. It's a great sim to explore, and I highy recommend it.

This skin is from DrLife and is the dark version of Liu. Liu is designed by my dear friend Leena Ying. The All Makeup line of skins by DrLife are priced at $2200L.

The hair is from Bish Wear and is called Toss Me Around. It sells for $375L which gets you a package of 6 hair colors (auburn, black, brown, blonde, red, and wine). I am wearing brown. The hair is designed by ShyOne Lehane. My eyes are from TULI and are called luminous eyes - steel. They are designed by Tuli Asturias.

I hope that you enjoyed this look at Africa and found the photos intriguing and exotic. And do drop by Mimi's Choice and see her very choice selections from Jador Fashion's Spring Collection.

Mimi's Choice Mainstore:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Deep%20House%20Island/208/10/23

Jador Fashion:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Jador%20Fashion/9/164/25

BishWear:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/BishWear%20Island/176/182/24

T U L I Mainstore:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Journey/47/95/301

DrLife Skins and Hair are available at Mariko in Mont Saint Michel

Mariko
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Mont%20Saint%20Michel/228/117/31

Photos were taken at The Nubian Empire:

The Nubian Empire

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Karinya/100/83/502

Other posts for Jador Fashon:

Apala by Jador Fashions (June 23 2009)

http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2009/06/apala-by-jador-fashions.html

Related posts:

Enlightening, Exhilarating, Extraordinary (March 26, 2009)

http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2009/03/enlightening-exhilarating-extraordinary.html

Theodora by Lady Thera's Art and Fashion

2010-03-21T09:00:00.009-04:00

Theodora by Lady Thera

Theodora by fashion designer Thera Taureg is a masterpiece - a work of extraordinary skill, an artistic achievement. Whenever, I wear this outfit, I marvel at the ingeniuity and creativity of its triple layer design and how everything just flows together into a graceful whole. Its a strikingly lovely dress, and I'm very excited to have it in my wardrobe. Theodora can be found at Lady Thera's Art and Fashion where it sells for L$990. Theodora was inspired by one of my favorite persons from history - Empress Theodora of Byzantium. She was born 1,510 years ago; but, Theodora is a woman for all ages.

Click on the pictures to enlarge them to their original size for better viewing.

Empress Theodora (c. 500 – 548 AD) was one of the most influential and powerful figures of the Early Middle Ages. She was the empress of the great Byzantine Empire which she jointly ruled with her husband, Emperor Justinian I. Of humble background, she had been an actress and a courtesan prior to her marriage. A delicate beautiful, a delightful wit, and a keen political acumen endeared her to Justinian who appealed against an old Roman law forbidding the marriage of officials to actresses in order to marry her. Justinian considered Theodora his full intellectual partner. The pair took control of the empire following the death of Justinian’s uncle and father by adoption, Emperor Justin I, in 527 AD.

Empress Theodora from a mosaic in Ravenna, Italy

They were a dazzling couple who ushered in the most brilliant period in Byzantine history. It was a renaissance of power, conquest, and culture in the former eastern Roman empire. During their rule, Theodora and Justinian transformed Constantinople, the capital of the empire, into one of the world’s most splendid cities. And among their many monumental public works in Constantinople is the magnificent Hagia Sophia - Church of Holy Wisdom – once the greatest church in Christendom and a grand achievement in Byzantine architecture.

Empress Theodora on the Throne of Byzantium

As joint ruler of the empire, Theodora had a real effect on political decisions within the empire. Most noteworthy, her participation in Justinian's constitutional reforms resulted in an expansion of women’s rights that was unprecedented for the age. Forced prostitution was prohibited, women were granted more rights in divorce cases, mothers given guardianship rights over their children, the death penalty was instituted for rape, the killing of wives accused of adultery was forbidden, and laws were established that allowed women to own and inherit property. Today, we recognize her as an early pioneer and a heroine of the women's rights movement. Theodora died from cancer in 548 AD. She is venerated as a saint in the Eastern Orthodox Church.

Theodora by Lady Thera comes with jacket, blouse, underblouse, underblouse, pants, gloves, and 3 triple flexi skirts - mini, median, long gown - which give you 3 different looks. I am particularly fond of the mini which I have highlighted in the previous pictures of this post.

The long gown is elegantly regal. In this look, the triple layers in the skirt creates a 3-dimensional effect that is truly magical.

The midi skirt gives a very sexy look that is sure to attract attention. It's perfect for parties and a night at the clubs.

The hair that I am wearing is from DrLife and is called Boachai. Boachai was designed by my dear friend Leena Ying, owner of DrLife, and sells for L$350. Boachai comes with 9 colors - red, silverin, platinum, honey, blonde, black, brown, golden brown, dark brown - which you select with a menu.

In real life, I made a memorable trip to Istanbul and explored the magnificent Hagia Sophia and touched the remnants of the great wall of Constantinople. So I am glad that I can bring you this little taste of Byzantium. And consider taking a trip to Lady Thera's Art and Fashion and aspire to the Imperial Throne of the Byzantine Empire.

Lady Thera's Art and Fashion:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Mitcom%20Experience/136/128/136

DrLife Main Store:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Sylvhara/98/172/27

Pictures were taken at the Frank Lloyd Wright Virtual Museum, Villa Amorosa, and Kingdom of Sand.

Frank Lloyd Wright Virtual Museum

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Usonia/18/4/22

Villa Amorosa:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Nydia/107/124/48

Kingdom of Sand:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/KoS/249/25/506

A marvelous website with fascinating audio lectures on the history of the Byzantine Empire by historian Lars Brownworth.

http://www.12byzantinerulers.com/

Video: Hagia Sophia

Other posts for Lady Thera's Art and Fashion:

Lady Thera & Vincent Van Gogh (January 24, 2009)

http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2009/01/lady-thera-vincent-van-gogh.html

This post was recently featured in the Facebook page for the movie Little Theodora:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Theodora-The-Movie-Little-Theodora/165926480092476

This post was also cited in Mosaicology

http://musingovermosaic.blogspot.com/2010/12/woman-who-seduced-emperor.html#comment-form

From the MEB Spring Collection - Vogue

2010-03-02T13:30:00.004-05:00

Vogue by MEB Fashion

Earlier last week, I received an invitation to attend a special private showing of the MEB Spring 2010 Collection. It was a very cozy gathering in a pleasant Italian setting. I enjoyed seeing friends and meeting new people. And, of course, there was The Spring Collection. I have had my fill of this snowy winter. And I'm yearning even more for spring after seeing the seasonal delights awaiting us at MEB Fashion. The collection's eight designs are eye catching and figure flattering - exactly what we want for spring. And above all its Real Style for Second Life. The MEB Spring 2010 Collection is yet another triumph for MariaElena Barbosa, designer and owner of MEB Fashion.

Click on the pictures to enlarge them to their
original size for better viewing.

I left the party with a wonderful outfit from the collection called Vogue. Italian fashions adore women and know how to show us off. And Vogue is charming, chic, and flirty. I like how feminine and fresh one looks in it. It's perfect for those gorgeous spring days when the light spring breeze will collaborate with the dress to accentuate our girlish charms. It's that season, after all. Vogue comes with a leather coco belt and black stilettos.

The hair that I am wearing is called Wish and can be found at Argrace. Wish is designed by rika oyen. It's a hair that I call 'just right' ... not too short ... not too long ... it's just right. I really like its pert look. Wish comes in nine colors: platinum, blonde, dark blonde, copper, amber, light brown, dark brown, and black. I am wearing black. One color costs $250L. A package of all nine colors costs $1500L.

I hope that you enjoyed this sneak preview of one of the delightful outfits gracing the MEB Spring 2010 Collection. The collection will be in the stores later this week. If you love Italian fashion, and we all do, be sure to drop in at MEB Fashion and take a look at the collection. You'll be agreeing with me that the MEB Spring 2010 Collection is one of the highlights of this spring fashion season.

MEB Fashion Mainstore:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/CZESTATE%20Kuai%20Nui/118/20/22

Argrace Main Store:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/shin%20zushi/150/162/26

Pictures were taken at Green and Wild Garden Centre.
Green and Wild Garden Centre:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Green%20and%20Wild/128/147/688

Previous posts for MEB Fashion:

MEB Photo Contest Winner (November 15, 2009)
http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2009/11/meb-photo-contest-winner.html

MEB Anette at Mimi's Choice (August 21,2009)
http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2009/08/meb-anette-at-mimis-choice.html
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Avatar Inspired Second Life Fashion at Boudoir

2010-02-22T20:00:00.010-05:00

Pandora Festive Outfit by Boudoir

Its commonplace to say that James Cameron's Avatar is revolutionary. But undeniably, Avatar is movemaking at its most extraordinary. And it is most memorable for its creation of the verdant immersive world of Pandora. As avatars in our own immersive virtual world, we may feel a special kinship with the film's main character, Jake Sully, as we too use avatars to enter another world and to interact with it and its inhabitants. And, like Jake Sully, our avatars can ultimately forge a second existence in that other world and become a part of it.

Click on the pictures to enlarge them for better viewing.

Avatar's Pandora inspires us creatively in Second Life. Blue-skinned Na'vi, the denizens of Pandora, now walk among us. We can also teleport to Pandora Magic, a grouping of role playing sims where we might experience a Second Life version of life on Pandora. And, of course, Pandora has inspired Second Life fashion designers. Perhaps the most magical of all the Avatar inspired fashions is a little number called Pandora Festive Outfit. It was designed by Vitabela Dubrovna and can be found at Boudoir where it sells for $650L.

Vitabela Dubrovna is a self described explorer, photographer and fashionista. She is also a renowned real life fashion designer in Zagreb, Crotia where she and her twin sister have a popular boutique called Boudoir. Vitabela has brought Boudoir and a number of her real life creations to Second Life. The collection at Boudoir is a definite must see for the Second Life fashion aficionado as well as for us fashion divas and shopaholics. Her exquisite designs are stylish, feminine, and very romantic. And while I was shopping Boudoir for specials, I came upon Vitabela's Avatar inspired creations and her wonderful Pandora Festive Outfit.

Vitabela tells us that her Pandora Festive Outfit is made from 'Pandora's glowing flora and spirit tree seeds.' It is so much fun to believe that. I love the pale colors of the ginko leaves flowing down the dress and forming the skirt. The most charming aspect of the outfit are the spirit tree seeds floating on diaphanous parachutes of gossamer fluff that form a magical garland adorning one's head. The whole effect is of being a child of nature - a spirit at one with the planet.

I had so much fun photographing this outfit. As the pictures attest, it looks fabulous when placed in naturalistic settings, even alien ones. I would wear this outfit when exploring those wonderful scenic sims filled with gardens, forests, meadows, and mountains and be as a free spirit of nature on these wanderings. Did someone say 'nymph'? Of course, Pandora Festive Outfit could be worn on festive party occasions. And I would wear it to create an occasion to be pretty and enchanting.

I hope you enjoyed this look at Pandora Festive Outfit and will be planning to drop in at Boudoir. And I have a feeling that I will soon be encountering a number of festive nymphs from Pandora in the forests of my estate at Opar.

Vita's Boudoir

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Zora/47/206/303

Pandora Magic
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Pandora%20Magic/207/237/1001

Video: An Interview with Vitabela Dubrovna

Video: Pandora Magic in Second Life

Photos were taken at Pandora Magic, Bentham Forest, Opar, and at the residence of a dear friend.

New England Autumn

2010-02-02T02:20:00.009-05:00

New England Autumn by Lemania Indigo Designs

My first fashion post of the new year is another lovely creation from Lemania Indigo Designs called New England Autumn. This bewitching dress was designed by Lemania Indigo, owner of Lemania Indigo Designs, and sells for $395L. Lemania Indigo Designs has long been one of my favorite places to shop for fashions. I love classic Hollywood and much of Lemania's collection is inspired by the stars and films of Hollywood's golden age. Her fashions span that magical range from the novel to the iconic. I always come away from Lemania Indigo Designs with an outfit that delights.

Click on the pictures to enlarge them for better viewing.

New England Autumn is one of my favorite formals. I am always delighted to have an occasion to slip into it because I know that I'll be absolutely glam. The one shoulder design creates a look that is classic and sophisticated. And the finely embroidered pattern on the dress displays the wonderful oranges and browns of autumn. You will certainly make a graceful and stunning entrance in New England Autumn. And you'll love how this dress shows off your curves. After all, without sex appeal, there is no fashion.

I used various locations at Opar, my country estate, for New England Autumn's photo shoot. I was so pleased with the result that I placed the pictures on display in Lemania Indigo Design's group on Flickr. I didn't realize that I was entering Lemania's weekly photo contest. So I was taken by surprise and thrilled when told that one of the pictures had won the contest. The winning picture is below. The picture is windlight free.

My Contest Winning Photograph

Posing with my picture at Lemania Indigo Designs

It has been a real pleasure bringing this exquisite dress to your attention, My Dear Readers. I have found quite a bit more fashion magic that I will be bringing to this blog and its syndicated posts in the coming weeks and months. It should be an exciting and entertaining sojourn in the world of Second Life fashion.

Mariko Nightfire

Lemania Indigo Designs Main Store:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Lemania/110/101/22

Previous posts for Lemania Indigo Designs:

Russian Snow Princess

http://marikomagic.blogspot.com/2009/12/russian-snow-princess.html

Photos were taken at Opar, my personal estate.

2009 Mariko Magic Honor Roll

2009-12-31T09:00:00.005-05:00

It’s the year’s end and also the completion of the first year of Mariko Magic: Fashion in Second Life. And I'm very happy with the attention and success that the blog has enjoyed over this year. Mariko Magic is not your typical fashion blog. It's never about what is new in the stores. It’s about the thrill of finding that special outfit that creates magic for us. Grace and Sophistication. Sensual and Sexy. Cute and Whimsical. There are many elements that mix and flow to create fashion magic. It takes a special talent to get it just right. Over the year, Mariko Magic discovered and featured a rare collection of magical fashion designs. Each post in my blog is a homage to the design and its creator. And, at year's end, I'd like to feature the entire collection once again for another round of applause as the 2009 Mariko Magic Honor Roll. So, in alphabetical order, allow me to present this year's honor roll:

Click on the pictures to enlarge them for better viewing

     ALB Dream Fashion
     Item: ALB Anna
     Designer: Analee Balut

         Argrace
         Item: Argrace Beanie
         Designer: Rika Owen
         Item: With You (top)
         Designer: Air Winx

              Armidi
              Item: Lima Trenchcoat
             Designer: Juju Armidi

       Baiastice
       Item: New Yippie (top)
       Designer: Sissy Pessoa

             Bijou
             Item: Gig
             Designer: kotobuki jewell

         DrLife Silk Girl
         Item: Skins
         Designer: Leena Ying

          INDI Designs
          Item: Rebecca
          Designer: Jamie Holmer

        Jador Fashion
           Item: Apala
           Designer: ziamola Loon

Lady Thera's Art & Fashion
Item: Vincent Van Gogh Spring Blossoms
Designer: Thera Taureg

Lemania Indigo Designs
Item: Russian Snow Princess
Designer: Lemania Indigo

   Madame-Haute Couture
    Item: More or Less
    Designer: Madeliefste Oh

     MEB Fashions
      Item: Anette
      Designer: MariaElena Barbosa

MEB Fashions
Item: Sorbonne
Designer: MariaElena Barbosa

Prism by Journey
Item: Fierce
Designer: Journey McLaglen

Staged Skin and Fashion
Item: Staged Summer Suit
Designer: Dezi Jarvinen

TRUTH
Item: Tropicana Halter Dress
Designer: Truth Hawks

And lastly, I want to thank you, the readers of Mariko Magic and its syndicated posts. I write to inform and to entertain and to share with you the magic of fashion in Second Life. I am looking forward to your readership in Mariko Magic's second year.

Thank you,

Mariko Nightfire

Russian Snow Princess

2009-12-17T10:55:00.005-05:00

Russian Snow Princess at Lemania Indigo Designs

I have been wanting to photograph this fabulous creation for some time. The outfit is Russian Snow Princess and was designed by Lemania Indigo, designer and owner of Lemania Indigo Designs. Lemania is a highly prolific designer, and the main store of Lemania Indigo Designs abounds with gowns, dresses, and outfits influenced by Lemania's love of Classic Hollywood movies. The collection is a unique blend of retro, nostagia, and modern that will appeal to women of style.

Click on the pictures to enlarge them to their original size.

I first saw Russian Snow Princess in a series of photos featuring my friend Annyee Lindman who is a model at Lemania Indigo Designs. Annyee, modeling the outfit, was breathtakingly lovely in the photos. That was last February, and Russian Snow Princess had been withdrawn to make room for the spring fashions. Happily, the outfit is available once again for this winter season at a price of $560L. With winter scenery coming to many sims, I now had the opportunity to take my own set of photos of Russian Snow Princess.

A snow princess needs lots of pretty snow. As if bowing to the demands of the princess, my dear friend, Jaysun Dagger, created a magical winter wonderland around his island residence. Jaysun has a discerning artistic eye for the beautiful and the sublime. I am thrilled over how well Russian Snow Princess photographed against Jaysun's gorgeous winter scenes. As always, my photos are marvelously windlight free.

Russian Snow Princess comes with corset, pants, gloves, stockings, footwear, a fur hat and a number of fur pieces, a flowing flexy skirt, and a prim skirt. By enlarging the photos, you can appreciate the exquisite details of this extraordinary creation. And imagine making a beautiful statement strolling the season's winter sims dressed in Russian Snow Princess. There are other looks available with this outfit that are very suitable for indoor wear. By replacing the large flexy skirt with the prim skirt, you can create a look that is elegant and sophisticated. I love dressing down to just the top and pants to create a casual sexy look that is perfect for snuggling against your special someone before a warm fireplace.

I was feeling very Anna Karenina. So I also wanted to photograph Russian Snow Princess in a European city with an appropriate historical ambiance. Jaysun brought me to the perfect backdrop. Second Life is wonderful. It even had falling snow. It is a homage to Bruges, Belgium by the talented SL builder, Painter Meriman. Very picturesque, Bruges is called the Venice of the North. I got the ambiance that I wanted. The period buildings along the recreation of the city's canals made for a great photo session.

I do hope that you enjoyed this long look at Russian Princess. Be sure to explore the extraordinary breadth of fashion magic at Lemania Indigo Designs. At the mainstore, there are very friendly and helpful models displaying the day's specials. The specials are very good deals. And there is always a nice group of devoted customers, self proclaimed SL Divine Divas, at the store. It is a fun place to shop, and I might see you there.

Lemania Indigo Designs Main Store:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Lemania/110/101/22

Painter Designs:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Ocelot%20Valley/36/146/24

The photos were taken at the residence of Jaysun Dagger and at Painter Designs. I would like to thank Jaysun and Painter Meriman for allowing me to photograph their properties.

MEB Photo Contest Winner

2009-11-15T21:00:00.006-05:00

My Winning Photo

I received a notice from Mimi Juneau that Mimi's Choice, along with MEB Fashion, was sponsoring a photo contest with the prize being MariaElena Barbosa's newest creation, a fabulous formal gown called Red Carpet. I had my eye on that dress since its introduction, so I just had to enter the contest and try for the prize. A few days earlier, I was scouting a most magical location for a future fashion post. Located in the Bentham Forest, the location was deep woods with a cold stream and colorful giant mushrooms. The visual impact is breathtaking. I had the perfect location. I now needed to find the perfect outfit for this location.

And I found it among the MEB Fashion Collection at Mimi's Choice. The outfit is called Sorbonne. Sorbonne is part of MEB Fashion's 2009 Fall Collection and was featured in the MEB World Premiere Runway Show. Sorbonne consists of a light brown high neck knit top with a great texture and black silk pants. Sorbonne is casual, but sophisticated. Its very, very sex, very. Sorbonne is priced at $490L.

The hair that I am wearing is called Maryanne and is available at Alli & Ali. The hair is available in 11 colors. I am wearing Flame. Maryanne is priced at $175L for one color. The 11 color multipack sells for $650L.

Well, I did the fashion shoot and sent my picture to Mimi. Click on the picture to enlarge it for a better view. The photo is wonderfully windlight-free.

My Photo on display at Mimi's Choice

I was teleported to Mimi's Choice and behind me was my photo on display. I was the WINNER. My picture was selected by Ludwig Prinz, a well known Second Life photographer, which made it even more special. I was so thrilled and excited. And my prize, MEB Red Carpet, is absolutley gorgeous. I got to wear it right away. First, at a Shantu Selene performance at the Moments Embrace Ballroom. And then again at the opening of the Hallelujah Azul Art Walk. I would like to thank Mimi Juneau and MariaElena Barbosa for a truly wonderful moment.

MEB Red Carpet

Mimi's Choice Mainstore:http://slurl.com/secondlife/Deep%20House%20Island/208/10/23

MEB Fashion Mainstore:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/CZESTATE%20Kuai%20Nui/118/20/22

Alli & Ali Designs Main Store

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Long%20Beach/49/72/22

Bentham Forest:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Wasted%20Night/36/49/22

Moorish Dreams - Staged Summer Suit

2009-11-11T12:15:00.007-05:00

Staged Summer Suit Set

'You look like Barbara Eden's wicked sister in I Dream of Jeannie.' That was the first time I've ever been described as wicked; but, Gwen meant it as a compliment. Lovely and sexy Barbara Eden played both Jeannie and her dark haired sister in that classic tv show. And the outfit that I was wearing does have an exotic Arabian Nights look to it. The outfit is called Staged Summer Suit Set and is at Staged Skin and Fashion.

The Staged Summer Suit Set was designed by Dezi Jarvinen, owner of Staged Skin and Fashion. It is priced at $395L and is available in a wide range of colors - red, lavander, blue, green, white, beige, dark brown,and black. I am wearing blue. The set comes with short and long pants and a jacket that comes with or without a tank shirt which makes it a fashion choice for both summer and early autumn. Inspired by Gwen's remark, I took this outfit to the Moorish sim of El Andalus with its re-creation of the famous Alhambra. Click on the pictures to enlarge them for better viewing.

The Alhambra in Second Life

For over seven centuries, from 711 to 1492, regions of Spain were ruled by Muslim conquerors from North Africa who gave the Iberian peninsula the Arabic name of Al Andalus. Moorish Spain was glorious. The Moorish city of Cordoba was the most cosmopolitan city in Western Europe at the time of the Muslim domination of Al Andalus and famous for its great Jewish philosophers. The fabulous Alhambra, built by the Moors in Granada, is one of the world's great architectural treasures.

Adding some fashion magic to the enchantment of the Alhambra

On a hill overlooking the city of Granada lies the Alhambra—a magnificient palace-citadel complex that was the jewel of Moorish Spain. The Alhambra dates back to the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries and is famous for its series of courtyards with their slender columnar arches, fountains and light-reflecting basins. The most noteworthy is the Court of the Lions named for the twelve lions of the courtyard's fountain.

The walls are covered with richly beautiful ceramics and plaster work, and the romantic enchantment of the spaces are enhanced by interior arches that serve a purely aesthetic purpose. The architects of the Alhambra wanted to cover every space with decoration. No decorative element was enough. Well, I wanted to make a contribution with my own decorative element - some wonderful fashion magic.

The Staged Summer Suit is for casual wear. So you are not shouting "Look at me!" when wearing this outfit. But, it's attractive charm will garner you more than your share of attention and compliments. I was pleased with how well this causal outfit looked displayed against the glory of the Alhambra. It says much for the graceful composition of its design. So it is well suited for a variety of occasions. Imagine how well it would do when worn in your favorite coffee shop, at a live performance, or for a walk in a garden. The long and short pants and the jacket with/without a tank top will give you four different looks. I just love the sexy look with the short pants shown on the left.

DrLife has been expanding their selection of hair styles. The quality of the designs and textures are first rate. The style that I am wearing is called Leah.ld and was designed by Diana XueElla and recently updated by Leena Ying, owner of DrLife. Leah.ld is priced at $350L and that gives you a entire collection of colors including black, blonde, brown, cherry, dark blue, gold, red, and silven. Its a great deal. Leah is one of my favorite hair pieces. It goes well with many occasions and dress from formal to club to casual.

Hair by DrLife

The Alhambra, Court of the Lions

Mariko Nightfire provides it all - fashion magic, a history lesson, and a travelogue all in one blog post. And, as always, my pictures are windlight free. I do hope that you enjoyed this look at Staged Summer Suit, and I hope that you visit the Staged Skin and Fashion Mainstore. There are many great designs to see there. And a trip to DrLife is always worth the visit. And tell Leena that Mariko sent you.

Staged Skin and Fashion Mainstore:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Rigby/160/98/23

DrLife SilkGirl Main Store:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Aquel%20sim/96/229/33

Photos were taken at Al Andalus
Al Andulus:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Al%20Andalus%20Generalife/219/134/40

Alhambra in Second Life Video:

Fierce by Journey

2009-09-19T21:50:00.010-04:00

Fierce Gown at Prism by Journey
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I had plans to attend the Costa Rica Independence Day Ball and needed a formal gown. The ball was one of a number of events celebrating the second anniversary of Cost Rica. Costa Rica Sims is possibly the most beautiful estate in Second Life and contains some of the more prestigious addresses on the grid. Costa Rica advertises itself as providing 'the luxurious experience of living in harmony with nature and being surrounded by the best Second Life has to offer.' Naturally, the ball would be a veritable fashion show of formal gowns by Second Life's top designers. I was putting myself in a situation where my fashion sense would be put to a severe test.
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Every woman attending a ball wishes for a gown that will shine the spotlight of the evening on her. Attracting that spotlight requires a gown that is dramatic and original; yet, elegant and graceful. Sounds like a search for the Holy Grail of fashion. But I found it. It is called Fierce, and it was designed by Journey McLaglen of Prism by Journey Woman's Clothing, Bal Harbour. It's priced at $380L. Fierce juxtapositions the exotic stripe and spot patterns of two great cats - the White Tiger and the White Leopard - to dramatic effect. The stark contrast between the black patterns and the white background and the interplay of the tiger stripes and leopard spots immediately sets you apart in a sea of formal gowns. The originality and drama of this gown may attract attention; but, its beauty and flowing elegance will keep it on you.
.The ball was a marvelous affair. As expected, fashion statements were being made by the ladies (and the place was crawling with Miss Virtual World finalists). One of the highlights of the evening was the announcement of the winner of the Best Parcel Award which went to WK Ganesvoort. WK's residence and grounds are truly magnificent. I was thrilled for WK and also for my dear friend Jaysun Dagger who designed the interiors of the manor house. After the ball, a number of people gathered at WK's place for some more dancing. I took advantage of the opportunity to take pictures of my gown using WK Ganesvoort's wonderful garden and residence as background for the fashion shoot. Did my fashion sense pass the test that evening? I did receive many complements for my dress. But you be the judge. Click on the pictures to enlarge them for a closer look.
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It was also important to have the right hair style. I found the perfect hair at DrLife. Not only does DrLife make the best skins in Second Life, they also make some of the best hair. The styles and the quality of the textures are outstanding. The hair I am wearing is called Mei Wave and was designed by Leena Ying, the owner of DrLife. Mei sells for $350L which gives you a complete set of hair colors (Chocolate, Dark Blue, Dark Brown, Black, Blonde, Gold, and Red). I am wearing Black.
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I hope that you enjoyed this post. If you are in the mood to shop, try stopping by Prism by Journey and DrLife. There is fashion magic to be had.

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Prism by Journey Woman's Clothing, Bal Harbour:http://slurl.com/secondlife/Bal%20Harbour/88/59/22
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DrLife SilkGirl Main Store:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Aquel%20sim/96/229/33
.Again, I would like to thank Mr. Ganesvoort for inviting me into his home and allowing me to take these pictures.

MEB Anette at Mimi's Choice

2009-08-21T17:03:00.010-04:00

MEB Anette available at Mimi's Choice

I recently dropped by Mimi's Choice to see some of the newly arrived Fall fashions. Mimi Juneau was in her store wearing a wonderful jacket/dress combination from MEB Fashions called Anette. Anette is a special package deal available at Mimi's Choice that gives you a sculpty jacket called Jane and a black dress called Cameron that are sold separately at MEB Fashions' mainstore. Anette sells for $590L which is a good deal as Jane and Cameron sell individually for $490L and $450L, respectively. Two articles of fashion magic in a special package deal, I needed little persuasion to convince me to acquire them for my own wardrobe.
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Italian fashion designs are world class. And I love the Italian taste and tradition in fashion. This taste and tradition has been brought into Second Life by a talented core of Italian designers. Among that group of excellent fashion designers from Italy is MariaElena Barbosa, fashion designer and owner of MEB Fashions. MEB Fashions is a wonderful store to window shop and make a want list from its classy and sexy line of dresses and lingerie. It's almost certain that the jacket and dress in Anette will be on that list, and they go together so well. To see the details on this attractive combination, click on the pictures to enlarge them. Note the details on the Jane jacket. They are marvelous.
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The black Cameron dress is stunning. It is classy; but, very fresh and young. Cameron comes in two versions - with short sleeves and sleeveless. Its a very flattering dress for which I am very appreciative. The two versions of the dress are pictured below.

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I am wearing blonde hair in a shag cut from Diorsis Hair Design called Brigitte. I have been wearing this hair for the past few days. It is a very simple hair style; but, I have gotten complement after complement for it. So, I am very pleased with this hair. Brigitte sells for $190L. The boots that I am wearing are Stiletto Boots by Blaze. The boots come in 6 colors (silver, chocolate, white, red, champagne, black). I am wearing black. These boots sell for $280L. However, you can buy all 6 colors in a bundle for $700L.
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Mimi's Choice Mainstore:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Deep%20House%20Island/208/10/23

MEB Fashion Mainstore:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/CZESTATE%20Kuai%20Nui/118/20/22.

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Diorsis Hair Design:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Banior%20Bahoozamoth/161/246/87

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Blaze:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Blaze/73/118/23
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Pictures were taken in the library of the residence of WK Ganesvoort in Costa Rica. I would like to thank Mr. Ganesvoort for inviting me into his home and allowing me to take these pictures.
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Rebecca from INDI Designs

2009-08-12T22:21:00.064-04:00

Rebecca by INDI Designs

I was wandering around newBerlin, an exciting Second Life project that will be a true to scale 1-to-1 reproduction of the city of Berlin. As an actual city, much of it is mundane, and it is easy to get lost given its size. So naturally, I was walking about totally bewildered when I unexpectedly came upon a store and was overjoyed to have the opportunity to shop. It was also a very pleasant surprise to find some exciting fashion magic. The store was INDI Designs. I obtained a land mark to the main store and immediately teleported to its location in Blue Sky.

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INDI Designs features women and men's fashions and footwear. It's the women's outfits that are the store's highlights. Jamie Holmer, fashion designer and store owner, obviously loves designing for the female form. She adorns it and shows it off well. There's no denying, her fashion line displays considerable attitude. And yet within the boundaries of attitude, her designs are also graceful. This is not grunge. This is style and, much of it, high style.
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I wanted leather and denim that projected attitude and found it in Rebecca. A friend, seeing me in this outfit, remarked, "Mariko, you look dangerous." Extremely dangerous and Very Sexy, I might add. Rebecca sells for $400L and includes 2 jackets (short and long sleeve), 2 tops, 1 pants, belt, wrist bands (gloves), 2 armbands, 2 bras, stockings, and string. The looks given by the short and long sleeve jackets are shown in the pictures below as well as the look without the jackets. I like all three. Of course, the more daring among us can also dress down to the leather bra and string - sexy minimalism with plenty of attitude.
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The hair that I am wearing is from Magika and is called Game Over. The store certainly lives up to its motto: 'Hair and lots of it'. Game Over is on sale for $10L and is located on the far left wall of the store, bottom row. Game Over had a lock of hair falling on one eye which I moved to the side through the Edit function to get a look with an unobstructed view of my face.
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I hope you enjoyed this fashion magic. I highly recommend dropping by INDI Designs and putting some attitude into your clothing inventory.
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INDI Designs Main Store:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Blue%20Sky/213/42/303
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Magiki - Hair and lots of it!:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Magika%20Land/128/125/24
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Photos taken at School Girls Gone Bad Detention
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DrLife - The Best Skins in Second Life

2009-08-10T00:36:00.031-04:00

Mariko Nightfire - Exclusive Client of DrLife

Mariko Nightfire always receives the most wonderful compliments. My avatar is the creation of Leena Ying of DrLife. Lenna Ying, the owner of DrLife, is an awesome talent and the creator of absolutely the finest skins in all of Second Life. Her avatar creations are unique in their artistry and so distinctive is their art that one can always recognize one of DrLife’s clients, and they stand out in a crowd. In real life, Leena herself is a very lovely lady and lives in Beijing, China. She is also my oldest and dearest friend in Second Life. Leena treasures stories of heroines from Chinese history and mythology. She is also a great fan of popular actresses from China and other Asian nations. This enthusiasm for Asian culture carries over to her avatars. Leena specializes in creating classic Asian beauties. She also adds exotic tanned and dark skin tones to DrLife's product line and creates an exciting line of skins and shapes with the more Western features of Eurasians and Amerasians - the loveliest people on the planet, having inherited the best from the East and the West.

Click on the pictures to enlarge them for better viewing.

DrLife's skins are known for their artistry

.DrLife has a long established reputation within Second Life’s Asian community. However, word about these extraordinary skins has gotten out, and DrLife is getting the wider recognition it deserves. The realism and beauty are just incredible. The first thing you will notice about these skins is that their facial features are softer, and the skin tones, translucent. The effect is stunning, like a portrait painter applying delicate brush work to his art. The details are exquisite. I use DrLife skins exclusively. I would never consider using any other.

The demos at DrLife are very generous. At the store, you will have access to demo copies of all shapes and skins in the DrLife collection to aid you in making a selection. Shapes are priced at between $500L and $1000L. Skins are available in a number of shades – Olay, Fair, Natural, Tanned and Dark. A complete set of skins in one shade costs $1800L. DrLife also offers skins with an advanced feature called Complete Makeup. This feature allows you to apply makeup to your avatar through the Appearance Edit function. With Complete Makeup you can achieve a personalized makeup that is perfect for your outfit, as well as the occasion and the time of day or night. Skin tones sell for $3500L. Be sure to join the DrLife Group and pickup the free skin that Leena makes available to members as a gift. These gifts are always examples of their finest creations.

The Best Testimonial:

[18:36] S_ B_: Mariko... I want to know why you can manage to look so elegantly cool in what you are wearing and if I tried it I would look like a wally head lol
[18:39] D_ M_: Oh my. . . what a sight. . .
[18:39] S_B_: What?
[18:39] D_ M_: Mariko you are positively stunning.
[18:39] S_ B_: She's gorgeous
[18:39] D_ M_: I don't even know how to act now.
[18:39] T_ W_: She is always very well put together.
[18:40] Mariko: Thank you D_.
[18:40] D_M_: I feel all awkward she's so pretty.
[18:40] S_ B_: That's when you are meant to get polite and gentlemanly
[18:40] D_M_: Almost taboo - like dating a republican.
[18:40] T_ W_: Don't worry she doesn't bite (so I have been told anyway).
[18:40] T_ W_: •´¨*•.¸. HahahaA •´¨*•.¸.
[18:40] S_ B_: T_.... shakes head
[18:41] Mariko: I don’t bite but I have sharp claws :)
[18:41] S_B_: oooo scratches....

Leena and DrLife, thank you ever so much.

DrLife Skins and Hair are available at Mariko in Mont Saint Michel
Mariko
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Mont%20Saint%20Michel/228/117/31

Apala by Jador Fashion

2009-06-23T19:46:00.056-04:00

Apala available at Mimi's Choice

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Our guest model is the strikingly beautiful Dakota Applewhyte. Dakota is tall as an amazon and poses with an easy grace. She projects femininity and strength, pride and confidence. It is only natural that Dakota should model the exciting Native American inspired outfit by Jador Fashion called Apala. Designed by ziamola Loon, Apala is available at the mainstore of Mimi's Choice, one of my very favorite stores. Mimi's Choice offers selections from many of the finest stores and fashion designers in Second Life. Here you will find the best from Jador Fashions, Orage Creations, MEB, and Lady Thera, among others. Selections are made by store owner Mimi Juneau who has a fine eye for fashion magic.

Apala utilizes deerskin, denim, feathers, and traditional quill and shell work to create an look that recalls the Native American tribes of the northeastern woodlands. Their tribal names - Mohawk, Oneida, Cayuga, Onondaga, Seneca, Tuscarora, Mohican, Wyndot, Susquehannock - stirs our national memory to the eloquence of their oratory, to their stoicism and humor, to their dreaded war whoops.

Apala sells for $900L but you get a large package for the price. The Apala package includes shirt, short pants, long pants, boots, and some wonderful accessories. The feathered headband is gorgeous. You also get a leather necklace, feathered upper arm bracelets, and feathered thigh band. I like wearing this outfit with the long denim jeans in the package. And these boots are awesome. The details on this outfit are exquisite. To see the details, click on the pictures to enlarge them. I recently wore this outfit to a live performance and the complements just poured in.

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I would like to thank Dakota for her fantastic modelling. I am sure that everyone has enjoyed these pictures of her. And be sure to check out Apala at Mimi's Choice.
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Journey Home

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Mimi's Choice Mainstore:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Deep%20House%20Island/208/10/23
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Jador Fashion:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Jador%20Fashion/9/164/25
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Photos taked at The Space between These Trees, Welch Lakes:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Welsh%20Lakes/106/28/32
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Yippies and the Forbidden City

2009-06-09T10:34:00.073-04:00

New Yippie in the Forbidden City

.I love Second Life fashions. I love blogging. So naturally, I love Second Life fashion blogs. I read a number of them; one of my favorite is Fashion Diaries by Nina Raymond. Her blogging style is different from my own, but she is highly prolific and very informative. Her avatars are attractive, and she puts together some awesome mix-and-match fashion plates. I trust her fashion sense completely. One of her recent posting turned me on to a marvelous item of fashion magic that I decided to highlight here in my own blog. The item is a top called New Yippie. It is colorful and dramatic. It has a retro look about it that reaches back to the hippie era of the baby boom generation. I did research on the term yippie which places it in the late 1960s and early 1970s. New Yippie moves the look forward to our own time and for our own generation. In searching for a photo location to highlight the exotic appeal of this item, I choose the Forbidden City in Beijing, China.

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New Yippie is available at Baiastice. Baiastice is another great find. As I walked around this store, I found myself placing item after item on my 'Definitely Want' list. The fashions on display at Baiastice are outstanding. New Yippie is designed by Sissy Pessoa, owner of Baiastice, and sells for $295L. It is available in five colors: Orange, Yellow/Purple, Purple/Green, Magenta, and Cian. I am wearing orange. In my mind's eye, the silks hanging from the sleeves and belt resemble the feathers of hawks and eagles. The influence of ceremonial Native American costumes on the design is apparent. The effect is gorgeous. And I love how this top moves and flows as I walk and change poses. To see the details of New Yippie, click on the pictures to enlarge them.

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To complete the mix -and -match, I complemented the top with (F/Skinny) A001 Jeans sold by Armidi Limited for $145L (the color is Dusted Classic) and with Stiletto Boots by Blaze. The boots come in 6 colors (silver, chocolate, white, red, champagne, black). I am wearing chocolate. The boots are currently on sale for only $100L and all 6 can be bought as a package for $300L. Get them for this price while you can. You can buy them as either No Copy/Transfer or Copy/No Transfer. Unless you are buying them as a gift, the latter makes better sense.
Best of all is this hair. I usually do not like oversized hair; but, this is the exception. Its fantastic. The hair is from Bish Wear and is called Toss Me Around. It sells for $375L which gets you a package of 6 hair colors (auburn, black, brown, blonde, red, and wine). I am wearing brown. The hair is designed by ShyOne Lehane.
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Now for a little history. I did some research on the Yippies, and this is what I found:

.Once upon a time there were Hippies, then Yuppies and between them, Yippies. Yippies were members of the Youth International Party founded in the late 1960s by Abbie Hoffman and Jerry Rubin. Hoffman and Rubin were children of privilege playing proletariat revolutionaries. Yippies are remembered for childish street theater pranks and for inciting the riots in Chicago during the 1968 Democratic Party Convention. Jerry Rubin later renounced his youthful stupidity and became a stock broker and an advocate of free market capitalism. Abbie Hoffman never grew up. Both met unfortunate ends. The party's headquarters is now the Yippie Museum, Cafe and Gift shop located in Greenwich Village, New York City.
Fashion and a history lesson. Only in a Mariko Nightfire blog. I hope that you enjoyed this fashion magic and scenes from the Forbidden City. And I would like to thank Nina Raymond for bringing New Yippie to my attention.

Baiastice:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/BAIASTICE/154/126/25

Armidi - Hair, Clothing, & Accessories:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Armidi/134/128/25/

Blaze:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Blaze/73/118/23

BishWear:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/BishWear%20Island/176/182/24

Photos were taken at China Forbidden City:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Obscuro%20Valkyrie/69/197/26

More or Less

2009-05-14T20:29:00.065-04:00

More or less at Madame Haute Couture

Oh have I found a saucy little number. It is called More or less, and I found it at Madame-Haute Couture. Madame has a great selection of finely designed fashions ranging from formals, to clubs, to casuals. The main store at Peacock Park is very customer friendly, providing demos that allow us to try on the outfits before making our selections. Every store in Second Life should be so customer friendly. And also friendly is Madeliefste Oh, fashion designer and owner of Madame-Haute Couture. It was a delight to meet her as I found her warm and personable and very helpful. I bought a number of outfits from Madame that day, and all have drawn marvelous complements from the crowd when worn for an evening’s excursion.

More or Less was a delightful find. It sells for $475L and is available in 4 colors: Pink, Red, Blue, and Apple Green. I am wearing the red. To see the details of the outfit, click on the pictures to enlarge them. More or Less comes with 2 tops (open and with collar), 3 skirts (short, medium, and long), stockings, pantie, and bra. This outfit is so versatile. By mixing and matching the tops and skirts, you can create at least 6 different looks, going from more to less. The long skirt can be used to create a formal look. Combining the tops with the medium skirt makes a very stylish outfit. But my favorite matches the tops with the short skirt to create a look that is so teasingly playful and deliciously sexy. The more daring among us will dress down to the very racy matching lingerie.

The Hair that I am wearing is from Top Hair & Accessory. The style is Ballerina. Its creator is Heidi SeraKorea. Ballerina is available in many hair colors. Individual colors sell for $85L but it is also available in packages of 3 colors for $205L. I purchased the Basic Pack which contains colors Black, Chocolate, and Pecan. I am wearing black.

.I hope that you enjoyed this creative outfit from Madame. I know you will want to visit the store and try on this and other fashion magic from the delightful Madame Madeleifste Oh.

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Madame - Haute Couture Main Store:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Peacock%20Park/162/235/63
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Top Hair and Accessory:
.http://slurl.com/secondlife/Sera%20Korea%207/71/27/26
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Pictures taken at Opar, my personal estate
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New and Fashionable

2009-04-24T12:35:00.044-04:00

Suki Naminosaki

Our guest model is the lovely Miss Suki Naminosaki. Suki comes to Second Life from Hong Kong and is a very recent arrival, only a month old. But she has made extraordinary strives for a newbie in such a short time. Of course, one of the best places for a newbie to begin her second life is at DrLife for shapes and skins. Diana, the owner of DrLife, creates the loveliest asian woman in Second Life. With a new shape and skin from DrLife, Suki hit the shops and has shown a fine sense for fashion. Today, Suki will bring us some of her Fashion Magic and models one of her choicest finds.

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Suki is wearing the Tropicana Halter Dress available at TRUTH for $275L. The dress was designed by Truth Hawks. TRUTH is a store comprised of a complex of buildings offering quality hair, skins, as well as clothing. It is a pleasant place to shop. Their Tropicana Halter Dress comes in eight different color combinations, each named after a tropical locale such as Maui, Bali, and the Seychelles. Suki is wearing the color combination named for Fiji. I really like how refreshing Suki looks in this outfit. Starting from the halter, a tapering reverse S-pattern will have an admirer’s eyes flowing down the dress and taking in the figure it accents. It's a wonderful effect.

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Click on the pictures to enlarge them and to see the details of the pattern. They could be roses on this dress or fruit on another color combination. It’s in the mind’s eye and very playful. To take advantage of this power of suggestion, I have placed Suki in a field of wild roses and the outfit looks fantastic among them I really like the realistic folds that highlight the top. It is such details that add up to quality. And the overall effect is breezy and girlish. The look is perfect for late spring/early summer.

Hair from BooN
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The hair that Suki is wearing is from BooN. The style is called KRC02 hair C&Ma and the color is chocolate. The hair is designed by boo Nakamura and sells for $220L. When I visited the store, I was pleasantly surprised. I expected just traditional hair styles but what I found ranged from traditional to the imaginative. I ended up buying several hair styles. In addition to hair, BooN also sells skins, eyes, belts, and dreadlocks.

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I would like to thank my lovely guest for modeling such an attractive outfit. Suki is always wearing something that catches my eye. She is one of the best dressed women in Second Life, and she is so new. I’m certain that she will grace this blog again.

TRUTH
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Truth%20Island/111/211/26
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BooN hair styles, skins, eyes, belts, dreadlocks
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Zapico/12/148/36
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Pictures were taken at Opar, my personal estate.
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Enlightening, Exhilarating, Extraordinary

2009-03-26T11:25:00.070-04:00

Fashion Magic By the Waters of the Nile
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Enlightening, Exhilarating, Extraordinary is the motto of ALB Dream Fashion. The Africa and Moroccan inspired fashions by designer Analee Balut are indeed enlightening, delightfully exhilarating, and truly extraordinary. Drop in the ALB Dream Fashion main store and be prepared to be excited by the breadth and beauty of the fashions and items on display. At the store you will find quality clothing, footwear, hats, skins, jewellery, and accessories for women and men. And the fashions are to dream for - great textures and colorful styles that are full of grace and harmony. The store itself is a joy to shop in - tasteful, airy, Moorish and set in the exotic North African desert sim of A'ksha Dunes.

ALB Anna Set

I have four Annalee Balut designed outfits in my clothing inventory, and all are among my favorites. Today, I'll highlight a colorful and elegant outfit called ALB Anna which sells for $599L. Through the magic of Second Life, I took this Africa inspired design to Ancient Egypt to display its enchantment among the monuments and lost mysteries of the Nile. Click on the pictures to enlarge them.

Cascade of Colors

The ALB Anna set includes top, flexi sleeves, pants with attached belt, long flexi front skirt, flexi flat skirt, and red pumps. The sleeves and the skirts are very sheer (so wonderful), and the outfit is a veritable cascade of colors. Note the exquisite detailing and patterns revealed in the above picture. I absolutely love the color orange, and so I love way the designer utilizes the color as a highlight to draw one's attention to the outfit and the wearer.

You can create different looks with this versatile outfit

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This outfit is shock and awe. It guarantees you a grand entrance at any event. The outfit is also versatile and dresses down to some delicious looks. Remove the large front skirt and you are now wearing a sexy top and the flat skirt becomes a gorgeous cloak, very sheer and light. The white pants are a more prominent part of the look. It has a great texture and a colorful matching belt. As you can see, the white pants complements the flow of colors. Now, remove the flat skirt and you have a very sexy casual look that is fun and attention grabbing.

Dressed down to a very sexy casual look.
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Hair by Analog Dog Hair
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I usually find the hair styles at Analog Dog Hair rather pedestrian and not well proportioned (much too large) nor especially well made. Imagine my thrill when among the dross I discovered some fashion magic. The hair is called Amber. It is flexi hair and sells for $350L. Amber is fabulously ethnic. The hair is pulled back tight and then set free to billow and flair. Its a marvelous effect. The curling strands of hair off to the side is a little touch that provides a lovely accent. Your Amber purchase gives you a several colors - black, brown sugar, brunette, cinnamon, and copper. I am wearing copper. This hair is a great find and is possibly one of the finest hair pieces to be found in Second Life.
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Daughter of Isis and Queen of the Upper and Lower Nile

I hope that you enjoyed this look at a very exciting piece of fashion magic. I hope to feature more Annalee Balut designs in future posts.

ALB Dream Fashion main store:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/A'ksha%20Dunes/185/74/51

Analog Dog Hair

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Analog%20Dog%20Hair/126/204/21

Photos were taken at Ancient Egypta, Egypt Valley of the Gods, Cultural Arts Museum - Ancient Egypt Tomb Exhibit

Another Look at Spring Magic

2009-03-24T12:10:00.008-04:00

Magic in Nantucket

This picture is too good not to post. Click on the picture to enlarge it. I am wearing my early spring mix-and-match outfit while visiting the lovely seaport sim of Nantucket. I hope that you enjoyed another look at this outfit and are further encouraged to put together this mix-and-match and take a trip to Nantucket.

Nantucket:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Nantucket/128/128/10

Early Spring Magic

2009-03-16T14:20:00.039-04:00

Spring will be arriving in just a few days. Early spring bulbs are already accommodating a landscape eager for color after a dreary winter. And the Japanese in me is looking forward to cherry blossoms, always the highlight of spring as the season’s most spectacular show. And we definitely need to start planning our fashions for the new season. Early spring presents a change-of-season problem as we have some of the vestiges of winter and not yet the full glory of warm spring sunshine. This fashion problem is perhaps best solved by mixing-and-matching to put together that magical outfit for early spring. Mixing-and-matching is such great fun. The sheer joy of it was wonderfully expressed by my friend Smidget Beaumont, ‘I love taking bits of random outfits and smooshing them together to make something different and a little funky.’ I recently smooshed together a few pieces to form an outfit for the season. Perhaps not funky, but maybe more smart and casual. Click on the pictures to enlarge them.

Argrace Beanie with Long Straight Hair
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March is the windy month. So I wanted a hat to cover my head and keep my hair in place. My sister Wynter (as Victoria) wears a very cute beanie that is perfect for the look that I wanted to create. She took me to the Argrace Main Store where I purchased the Argrace Beanie with Long Straight Hair for $250L. The hat is designed by Rika Owen. What is great about this beanie is that you can click on it to change its size and color. The colors are: Sand Beige, Daiquiri Green, Pink Mist, White, Rainyday Grey, and Black. I selected Pink Mist from the menu. The beanie can be purchased with hair or without hair (to fit over your existing hair). I find that the beanie without hair is very difficult to adjust to your existing hair. I would recommend buying the beanie with hair. It can be purchased with long straight hair or with long layered wavy hair. Available hair colors are Black, Blonde, Light Brown, Dark Brown, Red and Platinum. I bought the black long straight hair.

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This lovely top is also found in the Argrace Main Store and is called With You. As you can see in the pictures, With You is very flattering to your figure and has a wonderful texture. It is designed by Air Winx, the owner of Argrace, and sells for $300L. It is available in White, Wine Red, Browny, DP, Olive, Light Grey, and Black. I purchased Wine Red. Your purchase gets you two models, a long sleeve and a medium sleeve model. I am wearing the medium sleeve. With You also comes with a very cute plaid muffler that is perfect for when the March wind has a brisk snap.
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'With You' from Argrace Main Store
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White Satin Pants from Redgrave Women's Fashion

I completed this spring outfit with the White Satin Pants available at Redgrave Women’s Fashion. The pants are designed by Emilia Redgrave and sell for $400L. You might choose to finish off your outfit by purchasing some great jeans at Argrace. But these white satin pants are one of my favorite items for mixing-and-matching. They do so well with so many other pieces. They are perfect for taking a top from one of your lovely formals and creating a less formal look that is just credibly sexy.
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Voila - Mix and Match Fashion Magic for Early Spring

I hope you have fun creating your own mix-and-match fashion magic for early spring. And please go hanami (flower watching) when the sakura cherry trees are in peak blossom. Look up and view the blossoms against a clear blue sky. And take pleasure from the shower of soft white falling petals as they cover and spread over the receiving ground as if a spring snow.

Argrace Main Store:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/shin%20zushi/150/162/26

Redgrave Women's Fashion:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/REDGRAVE%20Womens%20Fashion/242/225/23
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Pictures were taken at Opar, my personal estate.
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Miss China Town creates Fashion Magic

2009-02-17T23:17:00.037-05:00

Mousebi Erin, Miss China Town

Our guest model is Miss Mousebi Erin, the reigning Miss China Town. The Miss China Town contest was the popular highlight of the Chinese New Year celebration held in the China Town sim, and it was actively followed by the SL Chinese community. The contestants for the title of Miss China Town were a collection of some of the loveliest asian women in all of Second Life. Mousebi Erin, a beauty from Hong Kong, was awarded this year’s title by popular acclamation.

A casual sophisticated look with a hint of intrigue

I was introduced to Mousebi while visiting China Town during the New Year celebration. I was shopping with Selina Heron, my good friend from China, when Mousebi walked into the store. As the newly crowned Miss China Town, she had a celebrity presence; but, I was even more impressed by her fashion sense. Mousebi put together a marvelous outfit and a look that imbued her with an air of casual sophistication while also hinting of intrigue. I could imagine her as the femme fatale to Simon Templer or James Bond. Selina provided the introduction, and, while we chatted, Mousebi would occasionally puff long on the cigarette held in her right hand to great effect. When next we met, I asked Mousebi to model that outfit for my blog. She agreed, and so I am pleased to provide you with the details of this intriguing look.

Mousebi is wearing only the top portion of the Lima Trenchcoat offered by Armidi Gisaci. Surprisingly, this works well in creating her look. And I especially love the collar on this coat. It is reminiscent of the film noir of Bogart and Bacall. The color is Hazel, and the coat sells for $325L. I have also recreated this look for myself; but I choose the color black. This works well too. The wide black leather belt is a marvelous accent which sets off the top from the rest of the outfit. The belt is from COCO and sells for $150L. COCO is located in the Cocon shopping mall of the Gion Shirakawa sim. Click on the pictures to enlarge them.

Mousebi is wearing the (F/Skinny) A001 Jeans sold by Armidi Limited for $145L. The color is Dusted Classic. These boots are terrific, and they are a great find. They are sold by L'Atelier Storm Schmooz Exclusive Second Life Footwear and are their Storm Schmooz Maitresse boots. Mousebi choose the color Chocolate. They sell for $500L. For my look, I choose Black Classic for the jeans and black for the boots.

Mousebi's hair is is from Mirai Style and is their Caly hair. The color is Latte. This hair sells for $200L. The finishing accents include dark glasses from Armidi Gisaci and is their Lifestyle Aviators. The glasses sell for $325L. Her necklace is from CeeJay's Miscellaneum and is their Isis Necklace.

I would like to thank Mousebi for sharing with us her wonderful mix-and-match fashion magic. I hope to feature more of her magic in future posts.
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Armidi - Hair, Clothing, & Accessories:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Armidi/134/128/25/

L'Atelier Storm Schmooz Exclusive Second Life Footwear:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Sawsnake/157/238/23/

Coco:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Gion%20Shirakawa/66/176/42

Mirai Style:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Takaraduka/150/216/33

CeeJay's Miscellaneum:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Lonicerae/73/201/418

Pictures were taken at China Town sim
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Lady Thera & Vincent Van Gogh

2009-01-24T18:56:00.018-05:00

Vincent Van Gogh Spring Blossoms at Lady Thera's

Les Irises (1889) by Vincent Van Gogh

Cezanne, Monet, Renoir, Klimt, Pollack, Miro, Warhol. We do so love the arts, especially the great painters. So we should not be surprised to find that they have inspired great fashion. To find such art inspired dress designs, take a trip to Manitova Italia and visit Lady Thera's Art & Fashion. I spent a fascinating hour there viewing well displayed reproductions of famous paintings and delighting at the marvelous outfits they inspired. My delight was enhanced by having the fortune of meeting Thera Taureg, the owner of Lady Thera's and the designer of its creations. Thera is Italian and from Brazil, and you can imagine the friendly outgoing personality that results from that fusion of backgrounds. She personally modeled for me a number of outfits from her collection as we chatted. I found it difficult to choose among them and difficult to resist them. So I ended up going on a spending spree and purchased four outfits. I depleted my monthly spending allowance; but, I did acquire magic. It was worth it.

Today's post will focus on one of my favorites among the Lady Thera's creations - Vincent Van Gogh Spring Blossoms. Thera makes textures from great paintings and then uses her talents to create fashion magic with them. Blossoms is inspired by Vincent Van Gogh's Les Irises. Les Irises was painted in the garden of the asylum at St. Remy, in the south of France, in May 1889. Van Gogh, suffering terribly from what is believed to be schizophrenia, committed himself to the asylum and was painting at a feverish pace as he believed it would restore his well being. His paintings during this period, which include Starry Nights and Les Irises, are considered his greatest work. Les Irises is on display in the Getty Museum in Los Angeles.

This outfit is stunning. Van Gogh had a marvelous color palette which is on display in this dress. The details incorporating Les Irises are exquisite. Click on the pictures to enlarge them and see the details. The oufit consists of a double prim super flexy skirt, blossom jacket, gloves, under shirt, and under pants. Best of all, it is topped by a beautiful textured hat (capello). Spring blossoms is suitable for strolling uptown or clubbing in the evening. It shows off best against rich plush backdrops. Its movements on the dance floor are incredibly sexy. This outfit just flows. It sells for $990L. Costly, yes; but, you are getting a work of art.

The details are exquisite

Very flattering to your figure and incredibly sexy

Thera Taureg, owner of Lady Thera and fashion designer extraordinaire

Pictures taken at Opar and Wiseguys Social Club

Lady Thera's Art and Fashion:

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Mitcom%20Experience/135/79/136
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Fashion from Bijou and Hair from Zero Style

2009-01-24T18:17:00.007-05:00

Gig from Bijou

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I purchased this number at Bijou, at their main store in Bijouaholic. It's a new creation called 'Gig'. Click and enlarge the picture to see the quality of this dress. I love the details of the cloth and its folds, and how it drapes and flatters one's figure. The short skirt sweeps up in the back to give you a great look from behind. A broad black leather and coiled metal belt provides a finishing accent. I'm wearing the gold outfit. It also comes in khaki, beige, black, purple, aquablue, and yellow. It sells for $270L. To find this outfit, you must go up the stairway to the store's second floor where they display new fashions. Be sure to catch a look at the wonderful crystal chandelier gracing the stairway. It is gigantic.
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The hair I am wearing is from Zero Style a store that specializes in Japanese style hair. The style I have is called 'Dana'. It is flexi hair and comes from the Dana brunette collection. The color is Dark Cherry. The Dana brunette collection sells for $300L. Don't be put off by the display pictures at Zero Style with the all too young looking models. Yes, many of these hair styles are too schoolgirl (what do you expect from Japan). But there are some sophisticated style hair to be found here.

Side Look - Note the work on the sleeves

Rear Look

Crystal Chandelier at Bijou

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The main picture was taken in China Town sim.
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Bijou: http://slurl.com/secondlife/Bijouaholic/160/176/24
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Zero Style: http://slurl.com/secondlife/Zero%20Style/124/137/38
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What is Mariko Magic

2009-01-24T10:06:00.006-05:00

Mariko Nightfire
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Mariko Magic is the fashion feature that I have been posting in my blog, Mariko Nightfire: A Virtual Life. I have brought these posting to this new blog which is solely dedicated to fashion in Second Life. There are some expectional talents creating fashion in Second Life. Some are well known and many deserve to be. I will feature them and their most magical creations. We all thrill when we find that special outfit that creates magic for us. Grace and Style. Sensual and Sexy. Cute and Whimsical. There are many elements that flow and mix to create fashion magic. It takes a special talent to get it just right. So lets go find these exceptional designers and their creations and highlight them here.

If you have any suggestions or have found some fashion magic, please send me an email at mariko_nightfire@live.com . Perhaps you already have some magic in your clothing inventory and would like to model it for this blog. Let me know.
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