A Little Bit of Style by Zoe Demar - Showgirl

Lately I've been helping my RL/SL hubby with SL photography. We had been visiting pose shops and one of the places we visited was LostAngels Industries. I noticed a new section was up with a few items and tried them out. The first thing I was thinking was, "OMG where the hell were these when I was working at Blacklace?" I contacted Evangeline Cortes to find out more information and requested to blog about it. She was excited that I showed interest and when I stopped by later on the next day we had a good conversation while she showed off the pieces.

The newness is called, Allure Retro' Multiposes Collection by LostAngel (official release today!). I'm not going to give you all the details here because you really should go see for yourself. But there are two groupings of furniture. One is what I'll call the Dressing Room, which I'm showing off the vanity and vanity chair. The other I'm going to refer to as, Music Lounge. Each piece of furniture holds on average 3-5 poses while others hold up to 10. I have enjoyed in the past the series that LostAngels puts out but was really happy to see something that related to what I spent a lot of time doing in SL.

Now for the fashions that this set inspired. I'm not going to go into detail of how I pulled the look together but the overall feel I wanted was vintage lingerie with a showgirl twist - which to me, meant bling with fur!

Enjoy!

Love, Zoe

Note: Image has been processed but clothing shown is not meant to be misrepresented

Credits:

Aoharu - Fur Coat in White

Ooh LaLa! - From Lined Corset in Pink

Ooh LaLa! - Seam Stockings in Black

Alienbear - Mimmi in Platinum Black

Maitreya - Verve in Black

LeLutka - Luisa in Blonde Fun

League - Taylor in Medium Blonde Feline

LeLutka - Reflections in Glory

Pose Set by LostAngels Industries

A Little Bit of Style by Zoe Demar - Fantasy Week: Wrap-up

Thank you for checking out Fantasy Week here on Z...complete over the past 5 days.

I think Second Life is a great opportunity to try out many of the different fashion creations available on the grid.  I really challenge yourself to appreciate what our fellow residents have created because our Second Life experiences certainly would not be the same without them!  

Chaospire, Graves, Deviance, BareRose, and Solange are awesome stores to check out for fantasy - but there are countless others striving to make their own marks.  Even during these 5 days I already thought of other places I wished I had mentioned and hope to give them their own highlights in the future. 

To the designers - thank you for creating fashions to write about and display over the past 5 days.  I couldn't have done it without your imagination, talent, and time.

Sincerely, Zoe

PS - Please leave comments with your favorite fantasy stores that you would recommend!

A Little Bit of Style by Zoe Demar - Fantasy Week: Solange

Solange immediately makes me think of some Arabian nights with seductive dancers.  The creator, Solange Cerveau, and I share the same rez-day by 1 day.  And I do recall making my first silk purchase back in 2006.  I can pretty much guarantee that if you're a silk wearer you have at least 1 silk from Solange if not more.


The reason?  The imaginative high-quality textures and prim fluidity that is standard in all that Solange creates.  Even an experienced Solange shopper can scour the walls and still come across something new - mainly because there is so much to look at.  The overall store design brings you back to a castle renaissance atmosphere which I feel properly reflects the time period of her attire (be sure to check out the underground for a fantasy setting).

Though the majority of Solange fashions are for the females, there is a good selection for the males in a multitude of colors.  A hint to the guys out there, a gift center is available if you would like to see your lady in silks.  If you're looking for a deal, there is a lucky board and bargain basement.  And if fantasy isn't your thing, Solange has a good collection of street-wear and lingerie as well as some business-wear, shoes, jewelry, and menswear.

If I scour the walls, I could pull out a few silks that catch my attention. Three of my favorite silk outfits are Goddess, Kadin, and Traction Silk (new & shown left - the gears animate!).

Now I need to find someplace to swirl around in silks for a day or two!  You seriously can't go wrong living out a fantasy in silk!

TP to Solange

Enjoy!

Love, Zoe

Note: Images have undergone some processing

Credits:
Solange: Traction Silk (not all options shown)
Analog Dog: Whimsy in Espresso
Dutch Touch: XaYa in Olive SmokeyEx (VIP)
MADesigns: Naturals in Happy Blue Pale Eyes
Redgrave: Eyelashes -29- Vampire
Redgrave: Girls' Biker Boots in Black
Pose by On The Cover (not currently available)

A Little Bit of Style by Zoe Demar - Fantasy Week: BareRose

Probably the most decorated and established fantasy (and more) location on the grid has to be BareRose. I can't help but be in awe at the sheer number of high quality costumes and attire that line the walls at BareRose. June Dion is the headmaster and well known name behind this massive establishment.


To my knowledge it has not been confirmed that June Dion is or is not the only designer/creator behind the numerous fashions. To find out, I sent an offline IM to Tori Heart, who is the CEO, Model Coordinator, and Web manager at BareRose. And if you're reading this - I have not had a response by the time I posted (no fault on her part because I didn't think about this till today).

**UPDATE**

Tori Heart has contacted me in world this evening and when I asked if there was multiple designers, Tori said, " June is our only designer, I run things for her and try to free her up as much as possible so she has time to design. It is a full time job for her. She does amazing work for sure and always tries to make quality in her work." [end of edit]

But this post isn't about rumors or breaking news - it is to showcase fantasy brands. BareRose has been and continues to be a fabulous location to shop for economically priced and cutting edge creations. Every time I go I can find something new that rattles my imagination. I especially enjoy that all colors are included in the pack - the only down side to this is having to sort them all out!

BareRose is also very good to both sexes having a wide collection of both male and female attire as well as unisex. And if fantasy isn't your thing, there are certain a number of outfits to suit any taste. I highly recommend looking closely at all outfits because there is always something that you could mix into another outfit already owned.

Over the years I have created my own collection of BareRose creations. Three of my favorite fantasy styled outfits are Neverland 2049, Over The Rainbow, and White Crow (new & shown left).

Maybe by the time I post this blog there will be even more new or old items to add to my highly creative BareRose collection!

TP to BareRose

Enjoy!

Love, Zoe


Note: Images have undergone some processing

Credits:
BareRose: White Crow (not shown with all included items)
Analog Dog: Whimsy in Espresso
Dutch Touch: XaYa in Olive SmokeyEx (VIP)
MADesigns: Naturals in Happy Blue Pale Eyes
Redgrave: Eyelashes -29- Vampire
Pose by TorridWear

A Little Bit of Style by Zoe Demar - Fantasy Week: Deviance

Deviance has been around for awhile but is one of the newer fantasy and costume stores that I personally have learnt about on the grid.  Surreal LeShelle first caught my eye recreating costumes of some rather famous characters such as Snow White.  But I had my first virtual experience when photographing one of her fashions for ROLE Magazine's wedding spread back in May 2009.


Deviance continues to catch my eye with her beautifully made creations that hit the mark with textures and color choices.  I can't say that her store reflects the vibrancy of her fashions, but it is easily accessible to her creations as well as the outstanding photography vendor displays.  LeShelle reflects her designs mainly on the more modern themes of costumes but has recently released some more items that come from a more fantasy based reflection.

Sorry guys but this store is strictly based for the female roles of Second Life, but I'm sure there won't be much complaining.  Deviance has a wide variety of items available for all sorts of costumes, role-play or fantasy experiences.  Some of my faves include Dark Elementalist  (new), Spring Fairy - Bluebell, and Enchantress (shown left)

And if this fantasy isn't your thing; there is a great set of casual wear including some awesome jeans (I own a pair or two) as well as lingerie and gowns.  There are a couple random lucky chairs and a discount section.  Deviance is definitely on my, "can't wait see what she does next," list!

TP to Deviance

Enjoy!

Love, Zoe


Note: Images have undergone some processing

Credits:
Deviance: Enchantress Fantasy Costume (Cream)
Analog Dog: Whimsy in Espresso
Dutch Touch: XaYa in Olive SmokeyEx (VIP)
MADesigns: Naturals in Happy Blue Pale Eyes
Redgrave: Eyelashes -29- Vampire
Anexx: Triple Fringe Pumpus in Nude
Pose by Reel Expression

A Little Bit of Style by Zoe Demar - Fantasy Week: Graves

"What's your kink?" is the tagline and perfect description of the fashions found at Graves. The creator, Jackie Graves, definitely knows her way around virtual latex.  Be ready to step into a mature sci-fi styled reality when visiting the store oozing out in a blue-green glow.


Graves' universe is made up of a huge variety of leather and latex creations that will get the blood pumping.  But pigeonholing the fashions to fetish only will cause one to lose an awesome assortment of creativity.  Mainly fashioned in black and white, one can still find a few shades of color in a variety of the outfits.

It takes a few rounds to really appreciate the ingenuity that Graves has placed into her creations.  There is a huge selection of women's fashions but she does have a decent selection of men's attire as well.  My current 4 faves are G127 Mantis, G200 Executive, G209 Eclipse (new), and G119 Nemesis (shown left).  It is difficult to pick only four!

And if this fantasy isn't your thing; there is footwear potential, awesome photography on display. and gift-cards available to give to friends that are.  Graves truly is the cornerstone in this market and if you feel like kinking up your look, this is definitely the place to do it!

TP to Graves

Enjoy!

Love, Zoe

Note: Images have undergone some processing



Credits:
Graves: G119 Nemesis
Analog Dog: Whimsy in Espresso
Dutch Touch: XaYa in Olive SmokeyEx (VIP)
MADesigns: Naturals in Happy Blue Pale Eyes
J's: ThighHigh Boots in Black
Pose by Del May

A Little Bit of Style by Zoe Demar - Fantasy Week: Chaospire

Chaospire is created by Devyn Grimm and is one of the first high detailed fantasy creations that I found on the grid and is still here today. When arriving at the store the creative details are even apparent in the build iteself.


Chaospire has a small collection in comparison to what you may find at other stores, but the quality of the items has always wowed me. When I spoke to Devyn Grimm years ago, I wondered how he was able to bring in such sharp designs. He did say that he created large then shrunk the textures down to import. Even his oldest creations still contain crisp details are still the top of today's quality.

A lot of Grimm's looks are based on medieval fantasy. Including druids, nymphs, and sorceresses as well as others. Though mainly catered to women he does have a couple outfits for the men. My all-time faves of his include the Woodnymph, Succubus, and Beledinoir (shown left).

And if fantasy isn't your thing, there are also swimsuits, t-shirts (new), and lingerie available. Even if you're just looking for a collection of wings to add to a look - Chaospire is one place you have to visit just to admire the work put into all of the creations.

TP to Chaospire

Enjoy!

Love, Zoe

Note: Images have undergone some processing



Credits:
Chaospire: "Beledinoir" 8-piece Gothic Tribal Bellydance Outfit
Analog Dog: Whimsy in Espresso
Dutch Touch: XaYa in Olive SmokeyEx (VIP)
MADesigns: Naturals in Happy Blue Pale Eyes
Redgrave: Eyelashes 29 Vampire
Bax Coen: Ankle Boots Black Patent
Striking Poses

A Little Bit of Style by Zoe Demar - Fantasy Week

Announcing a special feature that will start the Wednesday 21st and continue for 5 days discussing some of my favorite places to find fantasy fashion in Second Life.

Special Feature by Zoe Demar

I don't do this very often so it is a pretty big deal for me to change up my blog posts. The Taylor skin by League has been a very strong contender as a default skin, the only big thing is - my default look for Zoe is currently blonde which doesn't bode well since the Taylor skin has only had a dark eyebrow/hairbase option ...that is until now!!

Today Nena Janus (creator of League) released League Taylor Feline in Blonde!! Yes, I am more than a bit thrilled!

They are now available at the Harajukubox Skin Fair! (slurl here)

The skins include:

• Blonde Hairbase
• Freckles & Cleavage Options
• 8 Skins/Pack
• 4 Tones

Other Picture Credits:

• Bikini Top by Cynful
• Sweatpants by League
• Hair by Exile
• Eyes by LeLutka
• Pose by Diesel Works

Enjoy!

Love, Zoe

A Little Bit of Style by Zoe Demar - Holloway

I am a big fan of Mad Men after catching up with the series on DVD. We're nearing the start of the fourth season and thus I thought it would be fun to bring to life some of the Mad Men fashions to Second Life. Joan Holloway is the inspiration for today's look.

I knew straight away that I could find a dress that is suitable to Joan's curves at Icing. One of my all time fave stores on the grid, Icing has always offered a niche to the vintage style. Ultra feminine is this dress called, Femme en Noir. The pencil style skirt signifies a sensually elegant feminine figure which is accented by the stunning dragonfly pin.

No dress especially back in the 60s era would you be caught without some form of hosiery. I made a trip to pick up a thigh high lace-top stockings set from Blowpop. Seen here in sand.

The LeLutka Saffron pumps in nude are a bit more of a modern twist on the look. I opted to stay away from the typical black and stick with a neutral tone.

Joan isn't the type to over accessorize as she always tends to find the proper balance in her style. I kept the jewelry to a minimum with these earrings from the Antique Pearl Choker Set from Paper Couture.

Also being in the type of job she is she is constantly needing to keep an eye on the time. Thus this look would not be suitable without a proper watch. This watch called Naomi is from YV (by Yvette Vultee) and ties in a classic strap style with bracelet twist. And for future use there is a ton of scripted color options (black and white are sold together and are totally tintable).

Funny how it works out sometimes, but Truth's Zoe - which I have assumed was named after me (and even if not I'll say it is) really ties to how Joan keeps her hair. Maybe he had that in mind when designing it but it really fits well to how she wears it. I do hope that is a reflection of my own type of style - I do adore vintage styles but I know that I'm not alone! Truth certainly has not stopped creating - you can find new styles weekly which is quite an impressive feat on its own, especially if they weren't as good as they really are!!



I also decided to try a new skin brand called Mynerva. I saw Carissa Crimson blogging about it and went to check it out. I was pleased to see the different shades of eyebrows as well as cleavage option included with the skin. I wasn't crazy about all the make-ups but a few did catch my eye which I might go back for later. I really liked the glossy lips, and though typically Joan uses a darker shade - I thought this was still suitable. I did opt for the cleavage version because it didn't overpower the look. I do find that having cleavage options is nice but I also find there are outfits out there where no cleavage is necessary. The set I bought from is in a back room btw. There are also some tattoos for sale as well as elf-style ears.

Other tid-bits - I modded my shape to give a lil more curves to what I consider already curvy shape. The set that I used for background is by Click by Flix Saiman. I also reused LeLutka's Reflection eyes in Glory as she is a blue-eyed lady. One other thing that my hubby was mentioning, was that the actress that plays Joan Holloway, Christina Hendricks is not a natural red-head but a blonde! Huh!

I hope you enjoyed traveling back in time with Holloway!

Love, Zoe

A Little Bit of Style by Zoe Demar - City Chic

I've always been a big mix of a city and country - not necessarily the music, but living areas.  My last blog post was a bit of country so I decided to switch it up and bring a bit of country to the city.

The Lace Ruffle Skirt in White from Aoharu is the inspiration for this look.  The lace ruffles bring in a bit of the fun country flair.  It also comes in black and Aoharu certainly has many options of tops that fit with it nicely.  But this wouldn't be much of a city chic look if I kept it country.

To pull me out of the country and into the city I paired it with this Short Trench Jacket in Blue by Maitreya for a more city sophisticated look.  Maitreya has many color options of this trench, but I fell in love with the blue shade for a nice summer fresh appeal.

To accessorize the look I went with some of my all time fave earrings called Hamptons (by miabella) which are still available at LeLutka.  The subtle texture and colors remind me of water washing upon a warm sandy beach.

I also paired up some matching gray Dream Booties and Dream Catcher bag by Fri.day.  Originally I was going to pull out some white pieces but matching shades by different makers isn't the most easy option just like in RL trying to match one shade to another either in interior design or fashion.  Typically it is fine to do shades of a color but I didn't feel like there was enough contrast between the two to make it a proper accent and thus decided to pull the gray from the trench buttons into the hat, purse, and shoes.  I adore the creativity of the shoe design with the strap wrapped around the heal of the Dream Booties.  The sculpt work of both items are of high quality.



Probably my favorite hair by Fri.day along with all time faves of SL has to the the Yelena both original and the variant called Yelena 2.  Yelena is the style with hat attachment that is scripted to your choice of 24 texture colors!  And even if you're not a fan of this style, Fri.day has sooo many style options to choose from as well as great textures in all shades.

A new addition to my blogging is the Pink Fuel skins.  I've been aware of her skin making when I helped out with the Skin/Shape Expo of 09.  I was happy to give her newer Ember skin series a try and picked out the Maple tone in Pure.  There were a few that I will probably go back to pick up.  I liked the naturalness of this make-up to fit the look.

Last but not least - I pulled out a return to the Reflections eyes by LeLutka.  After photographing Aradia Dielli for last week's LE Look as well as a segment for Too Sexy - her eyes captured me again.  I've owned this pair of Glory shade for awhile and will probably come back to use it again.  I really like the color, texture, and lighting used.

Thanks for reading!  Enjoy!

Love, Zoe