s l T r a n s f u s i o n

FLOR

2012-02-13T09:57:00.008-07:00

Flor is fabulous, fun and funky. Her friends love her and wonder why they are lucky enough to spend time with her. But she has a secret.

Flor is working hard to manage her manic depression. She takes medication but occasionally her mood swings are still a little wild. Her friends laugh when she shows up with another crazy hairdo, but that's just part of her charm, right? What gets her through tough days is her Courage. She reminds herself that in a day or three the darkness won't be so dark.

What she doesn't know is whether or not her friends would be cool if they knew about her condition. She doesn't want them to think she is broken, because she isn't. Should she tell?

The Back to Black Event is intended to raise awareness of Mental Health issues. It isn't a charity fundraiser, but includes information to help us all feel more comfortable talking about these health issues. If Flor could share her experience without fear, it would feel like magic.

Dress: LMD "Courage" (mesh)(Back to Black Event)
Necklace: LouLou "Hyperion" (Back to Black Event)
Clutch Bag: Mons "Croco Clutch" (Back to Black Event)
Shoes: Purrfect 10 "Wild Rose" (Back to Black Event)
Tattoo: sYs "Maiko" (Back to Black Event)
Hair and Hairbase: Mina "Yva" (Back to Black Event)
Skin: Heartsick "Romance Euphoria" (Back to Black Event)
Eyes: Ikon (fmr Fashism) "Sunrise"
Lipstick: blackLiquid "pinot loveheart" (Back to Black Event)

Love,
Serene

IN THE DROWSY WOODS

2012-02-12T19:20:00.013-07:00

The woods may be drowsy, but its Queen is not. I stalk the kingdom, assuring myself that every inch of it is always under my sway.

There is nothing left but the wild beasts of the wood and a few crumbling buildings that will soon be overcome by weeds and fungus. Few of the people who walk through even dare to speak.

But the Drowsy woods are still well worth seeing if you have the courage.

When I went to Chic Management's Back to Black Event I fell in love with this jacket from Molichino and I knew I had to style it into an Evil Queen's gown. I had fun swapping out pieces of Peqe's black outfits with all their sculpted pieces, and the gorgeous Lassitude and Ennui boots with their delicious stitched details. I will have to show one of the other colors of boots in brighter lighting :D ... please go see all the yummies!

Jacket: Molichino “Hope Jacket” (Back to Black Event)
Skirt: from the Peqe “Back to Jet” Gown (Back to Black Event)
Bodysuit: Nemesis “Friendship Bodysuit”
Leggings: from the Bare Rose “Luchador del Ruedo” Outfit
Lacy Undershirt: PixelDolls “Tintable Cami” (unavailable)
Boots: Lassitude and Ennui “Flutter Boots” (Back to Black Event)(mesh)
Crown: Eclectica “Regency Tiara” (texture change gems)
Tattoo: White Widow “Dream” (Zombie Popcorn Hunt prize)
Hair: booN “YNO421”
Hairbases: by booN and Tiny Bird
Skin: Mons “Back to Black Skin – cream lips” (Back to Black event)
Eyes: Ikon (aka Fashism) “Sunrise”
Lashes: Hebenon Vial “Dramatique”
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose and Marukin
Location: Drowsy

Love,
Serene

p.s. for inspiration:

THINKING MEDICALLY

2012-01-28T00:25:00.008-07:00

The perfect 'statement piece' for those of you who have medical things on your mind. Have you been postponing that Dental Exam? Mammogram? Colonoscopy? (eww!)

I was so impressed with Paper Heart's fabulous "Prototype" hair that I had to rock it chic and upscale. Ladies, it's a new year and time to schedule that fabulous mammogram or whatever else is overdue. I will if you will! :D

Fur: Baiastice "Iko Fur Jacket"
Shirt: Whippet and Buck "Hykova Buttoned Tank"
Pants: LaViere "Basic Color Pants (White)"
Gloves: d.Select "wool gloves winter pattern white"
Boots: Lassitude and Ennui "Selene" (mesh)
Bag: Di's Opera "Old Luggage" (poses included)
Hair: Paper Heart "Prototype"
Skin: Ugly Duck "Lily Blue 2" (group gift, group join fee)
Poses: by Di's Opera

Love,
Serene

ONE BLOODY TEAR

2012-01-19T20:44:00.004-07:00

Forgive the drama, but if I'm going to get gothic, I might as well turn the dial all the way to "over the top". I started with the monochrome version of this gown from Blue Blood, but wasn't satisfied until I added some Blood Red. (I added a red layer from another outfit.)

Going in that direction, I went shopping at Ploom for this hair with its wide swath of red bangs. It comes with a texture change HUD so you can tint the bangs a whole rainbow of lovely colors. The skin is from Matrioska, Blue Blood's new skin line. Her dolly skins are especially designed to complement her clothing line. This particular skin package also includes a skin with red lips, but I wanted you to focus on my eyes. (The Tear is a tattoo, not part of the skin.)

And these boots. Ms. Ennui's latest are Mesh, in a whole range of colors, from dark to bright to pastels. Yummy! I chose the pose and angle in this photograph to show you how the mesh curves perfectly around my ankle even when it is both bent and twisted. The line of buttons stays smooth, and the ankle does not fold or deform. Beautifully done.

Frock: Blue Blood "Cassis Black" (this color a group exclusive)
Undershirt and Leggings: from Blue Blood "Aldana Red" (for some color)
Boots: Lassitude and Ennui "Selene" (mesh)
Hair: Ploom "Randi" (with HUD for texture change streak)
Skin: Matrioska "Domina Black Lips"
Eyes: Fashism "Sunrise - Gacha Red"
Eyelashes: Hebenon Vial "Dramatique Lashes"
Bloody Tear: Glam Affair "Tattoo Makeup TDR 13" (unavailable)

Love,
Serene

THE FEATHERED ONE

2012-01-11T01:16:00.005-07:00

I stepped out into the sacred city of the feathered serpent and spent the day accepting its tribute.

At last the sun lowered in the west and reluctantly I turned back to the gate.

But I will return again. Wait for me.

Gown: Vanguard “Death Flower”
Feathered Collar: Mimikri “Feather Collar Cosmic Snow” (TDR Blue)
Gloves: Mimikri “Gloves Cloud”
Hair: AVZ “Dark Garden”
Skin: Fashionably Dead “Bird Skin Winter 3”
Eyes: Plastik “Magic Floods Out of My Soul” prim eyes
Tattoo: Miss Shippe’s Studio “Ta Moko Wakini”
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose and Lost Angel Poses
Location: Kukulcan (thanks to Honour McMillan!)

Love,
Serene

p.s. I restrained myself from busting out one of those Stargate movie weapons and going all egyptian warrior princess on you all. You're welcome :D

AULD LANG SYNE

2012-01-08T21:04:00.006-07:00

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
and never brought to mind?

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
and days of auld lang syne?

For auld lang syne, my dear,

For auld lang syne ...

All creations shown are no longer for sale. I would love to see everyone share their old favorites!

Ina Centaur Skins - Deviant Kitties - Gala Phoenix - Gauze - Kunstkammer - MAU and MEJ - Mezzo - Mia Snow - Milk Motion - Miriel - Paper Couture - Sassy Kitty - Second Wave - Silentsparrow - Sweetest Goodbye - Tekeli-li - Tiny Bird - Woe

Love,
Serene

CHRISTMAS IN CRIMSON

2011-12-22T03:29:00.006-07:00

I wanted to combine this top and skirt from the With Love Again event into a Christmas Party outfit. The top is from a frothy Kunglers gown, and the skirt by Aura made me fall in love with the little ruffle at the bottom. The top is a little darker than the skirt, but I draw your attention away from that by adding the red leather belt I picked up affordably at the Dressing Room Blue.

The result is an classy casual party look, for someone who isn't looking for the floor-length-ball-gown sort of thing.

And oh! These shoes. They deserve a close-up, don't they? They come with a texture-changing HUD that customises the skin tone and the nail polish. Believe it or not, one of the included presets matched my skin very well, so I didn't need to mess about with the tint.

And this lush skin from Pink Fuel. It came in a two-pack, with a "nice" natural cosmetic skin for daytime. This one has dramatic smoky eyes with green-flecked shadow, and a perfect red lipstick. What's not to love?

Top: Kunglers "FLW hunt dress" (With Love Again Hunt $L10)
Skirt: Aura "Bulletproof" (With Love Again Hunt $L10)
Belt: TDR Blue Special "Rec Crocodile Leather"
Heels: Nardcotix "Mana Moshi" (With Love Again Hunt $L10)
Hair: Shag "She Sends Kisses"
Skin: Pink Fuel "Alyx Hazel WLH - Naughty"(With Love Again Hunt $L10)
Eyes: Fashism "Sunrise"
Eyelashes: Hebenon Vial "Dramatique"

Love,
Serene

p.s. Ugh ... reviewing my work, I see that my eyebrows are borked again. I am juggling several eyebrow shapes as the viewer keeps changing their shape randomly, when I change my skin or sometimes when I teleport. Sometimes they get arched and pointed so much that I end up looking like Jack Nicholson. *facepalm*

CINNAMON

2011-12-12T22:32:00.005-07:00

I don't normally purchase "couture" but made an exception for another dress at Kunglers. In particular the square belt buckles and pleated waist tickled my fancy.

This new Beetlebones preview skin is available at the Collabor88 venue. I tried it on a pouty shape and found myself looking oriental. There is a bit of a seam showing on the neck under my chin, but its placement suggests a shadow perhaps. I still like it at the price, but please try on the Demo.

... I indulged myself with more booN hair again: I love the unique design of all their work, but lately Mister Boon seems to be cutting loose with very wispy, organic, assymetrical styles that make me happy even more than usual. :D

I added squared earrings and shoe buckles to reflect the geometric feel of the belt. I think they balance the ruffles and sequins, make the outfit more modern.

Dress: Kunglers Couture “Leilah Honey”
Earrings: Addiction “Love Letter Pearl”
Shoes: SLink “Aveela Stilletto” (w/texture change HUD)
Hair: booN “WMO003”
Hairbases: by booN and Tiny Bird (unavailable)
Skin: Beetlebones “Karina” (Collabor88 preview special for L$88)
Eyes: Fashism “Sunrise”
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose

Love,
Serene

MONKEY DO

2011-12-07T14:38:00.004-07:00

Looking for things to keep your pixels warm? I nominate this cute-cute cushy hat and some hot cocoa. O yes it is cold out here on the ice. How did you know?

Actually hoofies work fine as ice skates.

The Hat and Hooves are on sale today for Grenade Free Wedneday at Epic's store at the Jersey Shore sim, but they are also available in several other colors at the main store.

Hat: Epic “Kawaii Knit Monkey Chapka” (L$100 for Grenade Free Wednesday)
Hooves: Epic “Knit Digi Warmers” (L$100 for Grenade Free Wednesday)
Dress: LG Femme “Amber Dress – SnowcoveredReykjavik”
Beverage: Theosophy “Hot Chocolate” (also available in coffees etc.)
Skin: Curio “:GP: Acorn [Dark] Pout-Melancholy Baby”
Hairpiece: booN “YURI15” (made for wear under hats)
Eyes: Poetic Colors “cat –coal”
Poses: by Frozen Panty and Long Awkward Pose

Love,
Serene

DIABLA

2011-12-06T09:01:00.006-07:00

I should mention there are a few very nice gifts out at Winter Magic. Last time I was there, a slightly-noobish-but-nice lady asked me how the hunt worked, and I explained that it was shopping, not a hunt. But that doesn't mean that the designers are without Christmas spirit, and there are a few discreetly placed gifts if you look for them. For instance, the Faster Pussycat display includes gifts for both ladies and gentlemen. The jacket and pants I am wearing are meant for men, but I am happy to borrow from men's closets :D

Being attracted to shiny and sparkly things, I had to purchase this necklace from Kosh. (The longer one on the silver chain.) If you click on the photo you can see it larger on Flickr. There are subtle animated twinklies inside that you can see on display in the shop.

Jacket and Pants: Faster Pussycat "Velvet Elvis" (gift at Winter Magic)
Necklace: Kosh "Your Soul to Keep" (exclusive at Winter Magic)
Skin: Plastik "Aleria" (exclusive at Winter Magic)
Shirt: Schadenfreude "Black Ghost Skelebeater"
Necklace: Favole "Sacred"
Bracelet: Blitzed "Legacy"
Horns: Lassitude and Ennui "Filigree Horns"
Shoes: Peqe "High Keira Leopard Print"
Hair: booN "ZGO223"
Lipgloss: Croire "Mischief Night Gloss"
Eyes: Poetic Colors "Fairy Eyes - witch dark gr"
Eyelashes: Hebenon Vial "Dramatique"

Love,
Serene

BABY IT'S COLD OUTSIDE

2011-12-04T22:53:00.006-07:00

I'm showing a few more cutie-pie stuffs from the Zombie Popcorn Winter Magic event. The holiday shopping is fun, the build is sweet with plenty of nice photo spots, and when I'm done taking photos here I think I'll need some hot chocolate. I am turning blue with the cold but at least my tongue is the right color.

This cute outfit from Severed Garden includes the fun sweater, a little sculpted miniskirt, leggings, fringed boots, and a headband with a pair of huge pompoms on it. I traded the headband for these snowy antlers, and reduced the skirt into a little sweater bottom. My legs kept sticking through the skirt, so I wanted to wear shorts.

Knits Set: Severed Garden “Pompy Ice” (at Winter Magic)
Antlers: Acide “Atlantique Cornes” (at Winter Magic)
Skin: Katsucide “Laura Oceane” (at Winter Magic)
Snowflake Tongue: Juxtapose “Catch a Flake” (set of 5 with built in poses)
Shorts: Phoenix Rising “Taylor Shorts” (unavailable)
Hair: booN “KED937”
Hairbases: by booN and Tiny Bird (unavailable)
Eyes: n-creation “ghost ice eyes” (old Zombie Popcorn prize)
Eyelashes: by Exodi

Love,
Serene

CHRISTMAS JADE

2011-12-04T00:51:00.007-07:00

There are quite a few Christmas events and hunts trying to catch our attention, but one of the ones you shouldn't miss is the Christmas Expo. Four regions of gift shopping and entertainment, with many exclusive benefit items set to raise funds for Relay for Life. Whether you prefer ballgowns or home decor, there is sure to be something there you like or would like to gift.

I always try to find charity benefit items to show you, but sometimes I see something else that grabs my attention. This year's "wows" for me were this gorgeous sheath dress and jewels from Kunglers. Not that these were my only purchases ...

I love our Holidays and everything that goes with them. I hope you're all having fun!

Why not start with a Sleigh Ride?
Or for more information, visit the official webpage.

Dress: Kunglers “Gina”
Jewels: Kunglers “Akha” Necklace and Earrings
Shoes: Maitreya “Frenzy Banana” (still a lovely oldie)
Hair: Exile “Maylee”
Skin: Curio “:GP: Acorn [Light] Fall-TD Exclusive” (this makeup unavailable)
Eyes: Fashism “Sunrise”
Eyelashes: Glow Studio “Innocent. eyelashes – pure”
Poses: by Diesel Works and Long Awkward Pose

Love,
Serene

THE WINTER MAGIC

2011-12-02T12:53:00.005-07:00

I can't be this lucky!

MmmmMm.

Zombie Popcorn's Winter Magic event is going for two weeks, no it is not a Zombie-themed hunt, but a gorgeous winter sim full of Winter-themed shopping. I consoled myself for the absence of brainz with another pair of boots. Of course.

Humming "Walking in a Winter Wonderland" ... I opened the floodgates on Christmas music after I ate my pumpkin pie on thanksgiving. This year balancing my lives, my obligations, my family is presenting more challenges, but there was not a snowball's chance in Hades that I was going to miss the Winter Magic event presented by Zombie Popcorn. I did miss the blogger's preview dammit, but here I go anyway.

Everything I am wearing I bought at the Winter Magic event, except for the Leggings. Go make a snow angel for me! :D

Hat/Hair: Wasabi Pills "Magician" (w/texture change HUD)(event exclusive)
Sweater: d.Select "long winter sweater" (event exclusive)
Leggings: Rebel X "Leggings - Wool - Beige Snow"
Boots: Lassitude and Ennui "Assassin Boots"
Skin: Plastik "Aleria Sanddollar ZombiePopcorn Xmas" (event exclusive)
Mouthie: Plastik "OmnomTinySnowflake" (one of several cute extras in the skin pack)

Love,
Serene

I JUST WANT TO BE A REAL GIRL

2011-12-02T08:04:00.004-07:00

There is no clothes that I could buy
That could turn back the time

There is no vacation spot I could fly
That could bring back a piece of real life
Real life, what does it feel like?

I ask you tonight, I ask you tonight
What does it feel like? I ask you tonight
To live a real life?

I just want to be ...

Body: DOLLCOCO “Body(snow)” (Mesh)(gift)
Ears: DOLLCOCO “Gift_ElfEars” (Mesh) (gift)
Head: DOLLCOCO “Head(snow)_Emily” (Mesh)(also with closed eyes)
Hair: Alice Project “Amiya” (Mesh)
Outfit: Yabusaka “Mesh School Uniform” (Mesh)(also includes tights)
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose
Location: HappyMood
Lyrics: by Kanye West

This was a bit of experiment, trying to combine lots of mesh pieces by different makers, pieces that were not intended to be worn together. The Yabusaka outfit is meant to be worn on a Yabusaka dollie, not the Coco doll, so the pieces intersected oddly at the upper back. I wore long hair to cover it. The result is presentable but the thighs tend to stick through the skirt with more active animations. I don't care cause I love it anyway!! <3

Love,
Serene

JUST FOR MY OWN AMUSEMENT

2011-11-27T00:28:00.006-07:00

Dearest Designers please note. If you send me an outfit like this one, I shall refuse to accept any responsibility for the outcome. You have been warned.

Your kisses lift me higher like the sweet song of the choir
You light my morning sky with burning love

I'm just a hunka hunka burning love !

I still aint lost em. Yeah they love me.

Jumpsuit: aDiva Couture "Agnetha Jumpsuit"
Boots: Gos "Curvaceous Boots"
Necklace: Ganked "Darkcircle Necklace" (old)
Glasses: Gos "Custom Eyeware"
Hair: Alli and Alli "Sol"
Hairbase: Aitui "Standard Hairbase"
Skin: Ricochet "Tristan"
Eyes: Fashism "Sunrise"
Mike Stand: Pichanga "Becoming Elvis" (old Menstuff prize)
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose and included in Mike

Love,
Inotto

p.s. The jumpsuit is intended for women but hey, I think it is way more funner this way. ROTFL

ALAS!

2011-11-17T09:55:00.007-07:00

Alas! Earwax. However, the Ohmai Emporium's jellybeans are so inexpensive that you may try another flavour almost for free. This little Ravenclaw student is fully dressed and showing her school spirit, having purchased a pet specially dyed in her house colours.

Or you can wash away the taste with some really excellent chocolate.

Outer Swearer: TokiDoki “Fall Cardigan (ravenclaw)” (group gift)
Sweater Vest: Boom “House of the Eagle Vest”
Shirt: Schadenfreude “White Oxford Shirt”
Tie: Schadenfreude “You-Know-Who Tie” (w/texture change HUD)
Skirt: Mon Tissu “Oxford Pencil Skirt” (mesh)
Arm Warmers: Boom “Arm Warmers – House of the Eagle”
Socks: Boom “House of the Eagle wool knee socks”
Scarf/Hair: Wasabi Pills “Brrree Mesh Hair” (mesh w/texture change scarf)
Pet: Ohmai Emporium “Pygmy Puff (the Eagle)” (gift set of four colors)
Necklace: Merlin’s Beard “Time Turner”
Wand: Schadenfreude “Tendrils Wand”
Jellybean: Ohmai Emporium “Every Flavored Bean (Earwax)
Chocolate: “Chocolate Frog” (unavailable the Gacha vendor vanished!)
Shoes: Duh! “Mary Janes”
Skin: Curio “:GP: Acorn Frex [Light] The Visitor-Probe 1”
Eyebrows: Curio “:GP: The Visitor-Dark Brows”
Eyes: Fashism “Sunrise”
Location: The Alley Shoppes at Accio

... In the interest of brevity, I restrained myself from also showing close pictures of the lovely Schadenfreude Tendrils wand and the gorgeous broomstick I purchased at Merlin's Beard. I would have shown the broom but my hands and mouth were already full of goodies :)

Love,
Serene

BRUNETTE

2011-11-14T23:39:00.006-07:00

It's no mystery that lately I've been drawn into shops to buy sweaters, furs, even a muff.

I feel so warm in this knitty mesh dress from Jane. I love the fit, it has a nice bum without getting the ridiculous bubble-butt I've been seeing on some skirts. I like the little detail where the sleeves push down over my hands just the way I like them in cold weather. And BRB's fur stole is just soft and huggable.

Hat/Hair: Mr. Poet “Bakerboy Cap and Hair” (texture change everything)
Fur Stole: BRB “Comfy Stole”
Dress: Jane “2nd Skin Dress Trio Purples” (mesh)
Boots: J’s “Ankle Boots Square”
Skin: Curio “:GP: Bean Frex [Dark] Pout – Whine 1”
Eyes: Fashism “Sunrise”
Eyelashes: by Exodi
Poses: by Penny Dreadful Arcade

Love,
Serene

CAKE

2011-11-12T15:06:00.005-07:00

After crashing out of Vintage Fair a few times, I quit trying to go there and went looking for other fun. Then it occurred to me, this is NOVEMBER! Which is my birthday month. So I decided to go looking for cake! Did you know that there is an island made of Cake? (Now you do.)

Any sim that is completely covered in frosting has my approval. After taking these pictures, I rolled around on the sticky beaches until I was unrecognizable ... whilst thinking deep philosophical thoughts about this virtual heaven. Last week I forgot I was passing my fourth rez day, but I've been blogging for about three years.

That's a big deal to me.

(Evie's little fairy outfit includes a hat, socks and flat shoes that I didn't wear cause, honestly! Of course I would rather be barefoot. I modified the sock tops to wear around my ankles.)

Outfit: Evie’s Closet “Tiny Eden Fall 2011 Edition”
Hair: booN “XFE275”
Skin: Curio “:GP: Acorn [Light] The Visitor – Probe 1”
Feet: Coco “BareFeet” (w/tinting HUD)(group gift)
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose
Location: Cake

Love,
Serene

THE DEVIL IN A NICE BLUE SUIT

2011-11-11T01:08:00.006-07:00

I found this pretty blue suit in my mailbox and tried it on, and this song started going through my head:

She's the devil with the blue dress, blue dress, blue dress,
Devil with the blue dress on

And I thought, it's a Suit, not a dress, but I figured that's okay, cause if the devil had a day job, she'd probably be a lawyer. She is here with her briefcase to negotiate a contract for your soul, if you're dumb enough to answer when she knocks at your door.

The blue suit has purple trim, so that gave me a great excuse to buy a pair of purple boots. Like I need an excuse.

Jacket: Mashooka “Chantal Colbert” (mesh)
Skirt: Mashooka “Chantal Skirt” (mesh)
Shirt: Whippet and Buck “Claven Lace Blouse”
Corset: Phoenix Rising “Willamina’s Tease” (part of dress)
Boots: Lapointe and Bastchild “Angeline”
Bag: Edelweiss “School Bag” (includes poses)
Horns: Wasabi Pills “Inferno” (texture change and tint)
Tail: Trap “Demon Tail”
Hair: Amacci “Alice”
Skin: Curio “:GP: Acorn [Light] The Visitor – Probe 1”
Eyes: Ugly Duck “Lily Black Eyes”
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose
Location: Rackingham State Hospital

Love,
Serene

TWILIGHT IN AUTUMN

2011-11-07T22:20:00.005-07:00

It's shameful how many lovely things sit in my closet unused, so I am wearing some old favorites along with the new bits.

The Aoharu turtleneck is not new but the simple narrow neck is perfect for layering under other collars and scarves. The Ingenue belt a gem. And the jewels by Alchemy Immortalis. Carefully crafted classics, that still compare beautifully with current art.

And the new: I love the graduated color on the Riddle skirt, and the sporty Mon Tissu hat. But the irresistable piece here is the skin. The new "Visitor" skins from Curio are amazing. There are several makeups that vary from almost-normal to unmistakably alien, including a set with otherworldly eyes and extra lipsticks. The face is unusually smooth and hairless, with small faintly pursed lips. (I added some eyebrows taken from an unwitting human donor.) I was severely tempted to give in and buy the megamultipak with like a zillion skintones, makeups and eyes, but ... :) darned budget.

Hat: Mon Tissu “Feather Wrapped Fedora” (texture change hatband)
Scarf: Miel “Fringe Scarf – leafy”
Shirt: Aoharu “TurtleNeckKnit_Nude”
Skirt: Riddle “Dip Dyed Mesh Maxi” (mesh)
Belt: Ingenue “Traveler”
Brooch: Alchemy Immortalis “Ami amet deli pencet” (texture change)
Bracelet: Alchemy Immortalis “Ami amet deli pencet” (texture change)
Earrings: Alchemy Immortalis “Sephira Seed Cabochon” (texture change)
Shoes: G Field “Sophie” (texture change piping and buckles)
Hair: YS&YS “Premiere Chignon” (included with some skins)
Hairbase: booN “gathered lower hairbase”
Skin: Curio “:GP: Acorn [Dark] The Visitor – Probe 2”
Lipstick: “:GP: The Visitor – Lips 3”
Eyebrows: Curio “:GP: Airhead – Dark Brows” (borrowed from another skin set)
Eyes: Poetic Colors “Fairy Eyes – Wolf Dark” (including eye lights)
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose

Love,
Serene

LOS MUERTOS REVUELVEN

2011-11-02T06:36:00.006-06:00

Today the Day of the Dead Celebrations end and with them my last excuse to deck myself in black and orange and skulls. Not that I need any excuse if I'm ever in the mood for indulging the dark and gothy. I headed over to the Peatonville Asylum to explore its dark corners, suitably adorned with several memento-mori ornaments.

The mental asylum creeps me out ... complete with an interactive puzzle hunt, gore, cobwebs, creepy music and a quality build that begs to be photographed.

Don't get lost.

Headpiece and Makeup: La Malvada Mujer “Circe”
Necklace: Lassitude and Ennui “Sugar Skull Necklace” (w/texture change HUD)
Ring: Naith Smit "Blood Diamond"
Top: silentsparrow “(hollow) dominion dress undershirt” (old gift)
Undershirt: silentsparrow “(hollow) sylvan lolita top” (old gift)
Skirt: Jane “maxi skirt.meena.charcoal” (mesh)
Shoes: Duh! “Black Mary Janes”
Hair: Lelutka “Rykiel”
Skin: Ugly Duck “Lilith – Succubus”
Eyes: Fashism “Sunrise”
Eyelashes: Hebenon Vial “Dramatique Lashes” (in-store gift)
Lipstick: Ugly Duck “Lips 15”
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose
Location: Peatonville Asylum by MadPea

Love,
Serene

I'LL GET YOU MY PRETTY

2011-10-28T11:36:00.002-06:00

I am so glad I did not miss this Fabala-fabulous dollie that KatatOnik put up for sale last Fifty-Linden Friday because, honestly, the green-skinned-one is my favorite. A pink-faced cutie pie doll is still for sale with several different colors of dresses. (And I bet we'll be seeing more of these dollies for other holidays. Oh I really hope so.) ... and if you are in love with the little dog, it is from Zooby's.

Love,
Serene

AT THE RAZOR WIRE

2011-10-28T01:49:00.004-06:00

As I lay on the other side of the razor wire, just bleeding, it stopped to look at me. In a few moments I panicked. Most zombies are single minded eating machines. Not this one. I watched it stop and think.

Instead of charging in and catching itself on the blades and barbs, it shuffled up to the fence, and sidled sideways, cutting itself a bit, but passing through the wire.

Crap ?!?

Outfit: Death Row Designs “Undead Soldier” (Zombie Popcorn)
Belt: Tonktastic “Steilhandgranaten Bag”
Poses: Poses 4 Posers “Zombie Poses” (unavailable)
Location: The Wastelands

The Outfit from Death Row Designs includes Helmet, Uniform, Boots, Skin and Eyes. I added the bomb belt for a little more dimension and just cause its fabulously well made.

Yum,
Serene

MONSTER PROM

2011-10-27T19:44:00.009-06:00

I found this mouldy old scrapbook of Halloween friends.

Skin: Weird Designs “Lucinda – Forsaken” (Zombie Popcorn)
Bloody Lips Tattoo: Pin Me Down “PMD – the hunger” (Zombie Popcorn)
Cracking Skin Tattoo: Delusions “Cursed Vanity 01” (Zombie Popcorn)
Eyes: Insufferable Dastard “Hellcat Eyes” (Zombie Popcorn)
Eyelashes: Hebenon Vial “Dramatique Lashes” (in-store gift)
Hair: Lamb “Heart”

Skin: Skintimate “Red Queen” (Zombie Popcorn)
Bloody Lips Tattoo: Pin Me Down “PMD – the hunger” (Zombie Popcorn)
Eyes: n-creation “zombies eyes” (Zombie Popcorn)
Hair: Pudge “Satanic Dance Party”(unavailable)

Skin: Beauty Killer “Electra Skin – Zombified” (fourpack)(Zombie Popcorn)
Bloody Tattoo: Zeery “Bloody Hell Left” (around left eye) (Zombie Popcorn)
Eyes: n-creation “Werewolf Yellow Eyes” (multipack)(Zombie Popcorn)
Piercings: Hebenon Vial “Inque” (Zombie Popcorn)
Eyelashes: Hebenon Vial “Dramatique Lashes” (in-store gift)
Hair: Gauze “Nephra – Punkin” (unavailable)

Skin: Damned “ZombiePopCorn Hunt5” (Zombie Popcorn)
Hair: MADesigns “Taisto” (Zombie Popcorn)
Hairbase: MADesigns “Hairbase ~ Red VIII” (Zombie Popcorn)
Eyes: ellabella “Mitosis Eyes” (Zombie Popcorn)
Piercings: ellabella “Cellular Level” (Zombie Popcorn)
Gauge Earrings: Nox “Nightmare” (Zombie Popcorn)

Skin: Weird Designs “Lucinda – Forsaken” (Zombie Popcorn)
Makeup: Quarantine “Joker Face Makeup” (Zombie Popcorn)
Horns: roobix “Zom Zom Horns” (also on spine) (Zombie Popcorn)
Eyelashes: Hebenon Vial “Dramatique Lashes” (in-store gift)
Eyes: n-creation “vampire silver eyes” (multipack) (Zombie Popcorn)
Hair: booN “KUM236”
Hairbase: Tiny Bird “Blacks Pack Hair Base” (unavailable)

... all snaps framed by AM Radio’s Miracle HUD

Love,
Serene

THE SCOTS AUTUMN

2011-10-21T04:04:00.008-06:00

Enjoying a fine day at the sea before the first freeze.

The loverly knits, plaids and argyle made me think of Her Majesty, but I don't have an old Land Rover so I am portraying a lesser member of the nobility. Perhaps a very distant cousin. I started dressing with the Sleepy Eddy sweater and the Gun provided by Don't Freak Out for the Seasons Hunt. Sleepy Eddy also made these leather clogs that I couldn't resist.

The sweet little necklace from Lassitude and Ennui includes a texture change HUD that lets you customise the colours of all its components.

Jacket: Sweetest Goodbye "4 Minute Jacket"
Sweater: Sleepy Eddy "Crew Neck Sweater" (Seasons Hunt)
Weapon: Don't Freak Out "Gone Huntin" (Seasons Hunt)
Necklace: Lassitude and Ennui "Scribble" (w/texture change HUD)
Skirt: Kurotsubaki "Brown Check"
Socks: Riddle "Argyle Socks"
Shoes: Sleepy Eddy "Gacha Sandals" yay I got the animal print!
Hair: Lelutka "Inverted"
Skin: Mynerva "Plain Jane"
Eyes: Fashism "Sunrise"
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose
Location: Raven Hollow

Love,
Serene

SEASON'S FAREWELL

2011-10-20T19:26:00.005-06:00

Job well done (again!) for the all the shops and organizers of the Seasons Hunt, which has been one of the few must-do hunts in Second Life. I loved so much discovering a few new shops, squealing while I opened the boxes ... ~~and knowing beforehand that none of the prizes would be junk.~~ *happy sigh*

Last week I had this year's first real cold snap, so I wanted to try putting together one of those mega-layered-supa-primmy outfits that some (other) bloggers do so well. I tried combining three tops but the prims didn't work, so I took off the Teefy shirt. I stretched the heck out of the scarf to fit it around my hair. And oh yes, a slider diet to keep my bum from sticking out of my clothes.

Dressing warmly can be a lot of work. But so worth it.

Sweater: Pivaaca “Cable Knitting Vest” (Seasons Hunt)
Sweater Dress: Addict “Lucille Sweater Dress/Moss” (Seasons Hunt)
Leggings: Magic Nook “Indian Summer Leggings” (Seasons Hunt)
Hat/Hair: fri.day “Apple – Natural Ginger” (multicolor pack)(Seasons Hunt)
Scarf: Naith Smit “[NSD] Seasons Scarf” (Seasons Hunt)(very modified)
Purse: Epoque “Illusion Clutch – Afrique” (Seasons Hunt)
Boots: Deco “Madison Boots” (Seasons Hunt)(mesh)(tinted)
Skin: Tres Blah “(Pale) C88 Dewy Skin – Red Brows” (Collabor88)
Eyeliner: La Malvada Mujer “B.N. [black segment]”
Eyes: Fashism “Sunrise”
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose

Love,
Serene

HUNTING SEASON

2011-10-16T22:38:00.006-06:00

I stopped running about to take a little walk.

This spot has the sweetest little path with a covered bridge. It was calling my name.

I turned off my computer yesterday and went looking for colored leaves. These are brighter orange, but I saw the real leaves with dog and daughter.

Most of this outfit I picked up at Collabor88. I think I bought half the store before I noticed the little candy hunt that was going on. Find twelve candies that contain six colors of culottes and six bustiers too. Did I ever say I love long culottes with boots? This plum-colored pant is just my thing.

Jacket: The Sea Hole “Corseted Tweed Jacket” (Collabor88)
Bodysuit: The Secret Store “Cable Knit Bodysuit”
Culottes: The Sea Hole “Odette Culottes – Plum” (Collabor88 Candy Hunt)
Boots: Miel “Puddle Boots”
Jewelry: Gems and Kisses “Yummy Candy”
Hair: Exile “Maylee”
Skin: Curio “Fall TD Exclusive” (this makeup no longer available)
Eyes: Fashism “Sunrise”
Eyelashes: Glow Studio “Innocent. eyelashes – pure”
Poses: by Dare, Diesel Works, and ImpEle
Location: Atomic Island

Love,
Serene

OCTOBER MY LOVE

2011-10-14T15:24:00.004-06:00

oh my! ... I think I will probably be up all night tonight. Yum!

And I can't tell you how sad I was to hear that this autumn's Seasons Hunt will apparently be the last one. I love them so much. What can I say? Would it make a difference if we all begged nicely? *sigh*

Love,
Serene

THE VIEW

2011-10-07T23:44:00.006-06:00

Not this view.

This view! I really like the view from this side. From the front, these slacks look a little plain. Tweedy and nicely highwaisted, sure. But when I put them on, I was really digging on the little zipper in the back.

Thanks for my cutie patootie, Ms. Betty!

Pants: Ingenue "Katherine in Tweed"
Corset: Schadenfreude "Fluorite Tree Corset" (sorry it doesn't show well)
Vest: Malt "Lorelei"
Ring: U&R Dogs "Cara Mio Ben Ring" (at the 4.44.444 sale)
Shoes: Ingenue "Nina"
Hair: booN "AEN105"
Hairbases: by Exile and booN
Skin: Pink Fuel "Alyx Pearl Bakesale Prerelease"
Eyes: Fashism "Sunrise"

Love,
Serene

MORNING WALK

2011-10-06T09:27:00.008-06:00

Messing about with shadows and depth of field for the first time. (Jumping up and down like a three-year-old) I wanted to photograph some landscape which makes for little bitty pictures, but if you click them you'll see the larger pics on Flickr.

I wore a dark undershirt under the sweater to help you see the detail of the crochet work. When I'm wearing several garments the same color I like to put in lots of texture. (The old art teacher used to say "unity in variety". The color has unity and the texture throws in some variety.) Today I'm letting the landscape have all the flashy color.

I really needed a walk in these trees.

There's nothing like those early fall days, with crisp cold morning air and sunshine at the same time!

I was jonesing for fall last night, and this morning at my house it was snowing a little. I should be careful what I wish for!

Shrug: mon tissu "Loire Knit Shrug"
Sweater: Ivalde "Radella"
Skirt: Jane "pencil.skirt.eliza.tan" (mesh)
Boots: Deco "Madison Boots" (mesh)
Hair: booN "YNO421"
Hairbases: by Exile and booN
Skin: Curio "Sweetheart"
Eyes: Fashism "Sunrise"
Poses: by Diesel Works and Long Awkward Pose
Location: Straylight

Love,
Serene

p.s. Yes I did modify my shape quite a lot to fit this outfit. the mesh skirt and boots were made for thinner legs though they leave some nice tush. And the sculpted shrug is made for someone with rather smaller chest than my usual. :) Mwah!

THE RED QUEEN

2011-10-02T21:12:00.006-06:00

It is difficult to know at first if she is just a beautiful queen, or the villainous evil witch. Until she shows her claws.

(I found these particular claws at the Halloween Bizarre on Twomoons Island. To die for. Literally.)

It's October and Halloween is swirling into our world. I just love the whole thing!!

Gown: Quality Designs “Alanis”
Jewels: Axiom “Antithetical Concept”
Shoes: Lassitude and Ennui “Estampies” (sorry they got cropped!)
Claws: ni.ju “Blood Tipped Claws” (Halloween Bizarre @Twomoons Island)
Crow: from the Tableau Vivant “Crow” Stage (group gift)
Hair: Sky Everett Designs “Cerdwin Rococo”
Skin: Glam Affair “Sakura”
Eyes: Fashism “Sunrise”
Eyelashes: Glow Studio “Innocent. eyelashes – pure”
Poses: by Dare, Del May and Don’t Freak Out

Love,
Serene

GOLDEN

2011-09-28T05:34:00.006-06:00

I wanted a relaxing jacket to dress down the pattern of the skirt, so I pulled a Gisaci classic trench out of my closet.

Another messy updo from booN that gives a more casual feel than most chignons, but still dressy. The golden oranges of the amber jewels and the print on the skirt have me all excited for fall.

The lovely mesh skirt is part of a new gown from PixelDolls. I love it. Try a demo to see if it fits your hips and test some poses to see how the texture stretches as you bend your knees.

Jacket: Gisaci "Primavera Mini Trench"
Skirt: PixelDolls "Tropico" (part of dress)
Jewels: EED "Kiowa" (incl. necklace not shown)(Jewelry Fair gift)
Hair: booN "PKJ371"
Hairbases: by YS&YS and booN
Skin: Your Skin & Your Shape "Terry Autumn" (at the Dressing Room)
Eyes: Poetic Colors "Fairy Eyes - Wolf Dark"
Eyelashes: Glow Studio "Innocent. eyelashes - pure"
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose

Love,
Serene

p.s. Why two hairbases? The booN hairbase matches the color of the hairpiece, but the YS&YS hairbase has a forehead hairline that I like more. :)

BETWEEN AND BETWIXT

2011-09-27T09:20:00.008-06:00

If you accidentally find yourself in the the sleepy places between human country and faerie, you might be lucky enough to see one of the little fae that inhabit the fair places in the wilderness. If they see you before you see them, they will probably just vanish. But if you see them first, try to appear unthreatening, and they might be curious enough to come take a look at you.

I was already laying in the grass so I just pretended to be asleep. This little one seemed amused by my snoring so she flew up and tweaked my nose.

I guess my snores weren't all that convincing.

Just lay there trying not to move or blink or twitch or sneeze.

But I guess she likes to lay in grass and wildflowers too.

Gown: Evie's Closet "Tiny Ren Dirty"
Hair: Exile "Buffy"
Skin and Ears: Plastik "Ataciara"
Eyes: Poetic Colors "Summer Star" (unavailable)
Wings: Seven's Selections "Ragged Fairy Wings"
Feets: Coco "BareFeet" (with tinting HUD)(group gift)
Poses: by Del May and Long Awkward Pose
Location: Betwixt

Love,
Serene

p.s. Back when I first started playing around in Second Life, I spent a lot of my time in the Fairy Crossing sims, wearing wings and pointy ears before they were trendy. I think back then the popular non-human alternative was to go Neko. Back then there were only two Fairy Crossing sims. These days there is the main sim with cute little shops, several mixed business and residential, strict residence-only themed, and a couple of lush landscaped sims that I just adore. They have dancing, poetry readings, holiday parties, building classes ... love it.

JUST OUT SHOPPING

2011-09-23T18:07:00.006-06:00

I was having fun running around shopping today and feeling a little like a slacker when I thought, why not blog what I am wearing? So here we are.

I am vrai tres picky about geometric prints, but I really do like the one on this skirt.

Repeating circles in the skirt pattern, triangles in the garments and pose, and the lime green carries through to the hair tieback and bows on the shoes. It's almost like I planned it. :)

Shirt: Whippet and Buck "I'll be a Ghost" (unavailable)
Skirt: Ibizarre "Summer Print Skirt"
Shoes: Gos "Espadrilles"
Hair: Truth "Gabriel" (color-change ribbon tieback)
Skin: Curio "Sweetheart-Rose"
Eyes: Fashism "Sunrise"
Eyelashes: Glow Studio "Innocent.eyelashes - pure"
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose

Love,
Serene

HAUTE COUTURE

2011-09-18T04:50:00.005-06:00

So it's like this: after this week of high fashion and Liz-Taylor-grade jewels, I was in the mood to decompress. Thus I bring you ... drumroll ... a T-Shirt! The Reel Tees shop is brand new with all-mesh-Tees for men and women. The Men's Tees come in Regular and Baggy; the Women's in Regular and Curvy. The Men's Tee is apparently tucked in, The Women's looks a little longer, and there is a sample in the store that you can try to check the fit. Enjoy!

TShirt: Reel Tees “Gun Show” (Mesh: also available in female version)
Jeans: Zaara “Jeans charcoal (classic)”
Skin: Ricochet “Tristan Dark”
Eyes: Fashism “Sunrise”
Pose: by Long Awkward Pose

Love,
Serene

MODERN GOTHIC

2011-09-17T00:43:00.008-06:00

Tis past midmight, and my brain functions as if someone poured in sticky treacle. But I wanted to show this Fashionably Dead skin afore sunrise, hoping it may still be available.

And Ricelli has a set of matching jacket and heels at the Dressing Room, decorated with spikes, studs and skull embellishments.

Skin: Fashionably Dead "Shark" (50L Friday)
Jacket: Ricelli "Alexandra" (The Dressing Room)
Heels: Ricelli "Carmelia" (The Dressing Room)
Earrings: Addiction "Platinum and Diamond Chandelier"
Shirt/Tie: Sweetest Goodbye "OK GO" (still available at Closing Sale)
Pants: Mimikri "Sequin Leggings" (The Dressing Room Blue)
Hair: Angel "Amelie" (The Fashion Garret)
Eyes: Fashism "Sunrise"
Eyelashes: Glow Studio "Innocent. eyelashes - pure"
Poses: by Lost Angel Poses and Long Awkward Pose

Love,
Serene

NUTMEG

2011-09-13T14:54:00.007-06:00

The weather is turning cooler and I'm so grateful. I put a wreath of colored leaves and pumpkins on my door, and I'm looking for sweaters and thicker socks. Maybe I'm going a little overboard with the layering.

The nutmeg and cinnamon and cloves are waiting for the mortar and pestle. But the pumpkin isn't in at the grocery quite yet.

Now I wanted to tell you about this MESH hair. It isn't my usual style. I like it because of how it is rigged to my head and shoulders. I chose poses that show how I can turn my head left and right, without the long bits going into my shoulders at all. The effect is a bit static, so they included an extra attachment with floaty flexi bits to make it flow more naturally. Of course the down side is that the wig can't be resized, or individual strands of hair adjusted. But it is well worth a look! <3

Cardigan: This is a Fawn “Cropped Cardigan [mocha]” (gacha)
Shirt: Fri.day “Ruched Button.Down (Spice)” (gift)
Shirt: Whippet and Buck “Maddy Lace Inset Top Sienna”
Skirt: Vanitas Vesture “Meticulous Pencil Skirt – Pacific Mocha”
Shoes: House of Curios “Country Wedges” (texture change)
Earrings: Pididdle “Heavy Sleep”
Hair: Alice Project “Amiya” (mesh)(texture change)(flexi attachment not shown)
Skin: Curio “:GP: Petal Frex [Dark] Sweetheart-Rose 1”
Eyebrows: Curio “:GP: Sweetheart Brows-Ginger”
Eyes: Fashism “Sunrise”
Teeth: PXL “Mouth_open_Addon”
Poses: by Don't Freak Out and Long Awkward Pose

Love,
Serene

RUSSET

2011-09-11T13:33:00.006-06:00

I know I know, I'm not often blonde *smiles* ... but I like how the hair goes with the little bowtie in front.

The dress is all mesh, all one piece except for the bowtie. I tried it on with several child and adult shapes, and lots of bendy poses. I am impressed with the flexibility of mesh: how it bends, how it adjusts to different sizes of avatars. It's not perfect, but still I'm impressed. (Let me put on my gypsy fortuneteller turban now ...) I look forward to the future, and all the creative ways that designers will combine mesh garments with sculpted attachments in their art.

This is so beautiful. It's not perfect. But it's damn good. Please try on and take a good look at Demo models; test them with lots of poses to see whether the mesh bends in a way that pleases you. This dress has a couple of oddities; for example the ruffle on the skirt is textured on the outside, but not on the inside. I don't spend a lot of time pervcamming around underneath my own skirt, so I didn't mind too much, LOL

Frock: Violent Seduction "Persephone"
Stockings: Miel "Jane Plaid Sock Dark"
Shoes: Tesla "High Oxfords"
Hair: Lamb "Isolation"
Skin: Curio ":GP: Moonbeam Frex [Dark] Sweetheart"
Eyes: Fashism "Sunrise"
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose

Love,
Serene

THE DARKENED ROSE

2011-09-09T02:25:00.005-06:00

This I why I still like to go on Hunts:

If I hadn't gone on the Twisted Hunt, I would never have found this new (new-to-me?) shop. I expect the next time I have money, I'll go back to RokumaikaN. The garments in their shop look so delicious!

A stunner. *grins*

Outfit: RokumaikaN “Chain and Rose” Suit and Hat (Twisted Hunt Prize)
Ring: Alchemy Immortalis “Foy Porter”
Boots: Lassitude and Ennui “Overknee Boots” (mesh viewer required)
Hair: booN “KED937”
Hairbase: booN “Gathered Lower Hairbase”
Skin: Cutio “:GP: Airhead”
Eyes: The Attic “Unseelie Eyes” (Twisted Hunt Prize)
Eye Makeup: Miamai “DecoShadows 01” (group gift)
Eyelashes: by Exodi and Glow Studio
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose

Love,
Serene

OH MY YES.

2011-09-05T03:09:00.007-06:00

I came back with my boutonniere as I promised. It and the matching tophat are garnished with lovely copper springs, cogs, dipped roses, and bits from an old clock. And an extra surprise! Not only does the clock function, but it chimes on the hour ... Perfect.

The delightful NachtMusik suit is darker and more conservative than most of the others in their shop. But you know I like the dark. I paired it with an antique but spotless cravat from To-a-T. (Had little choice because the neckcloth that came with the suit was sized for men.)

This Walking Stick I acquired on a previous Steam Hunt, and I am sure it will continue to serve me for years to come.

And oh my yes, there are new boots. Until now I have always eschewed above-the-knee-boots for the obvious flaws in their craftsmanship, but no more. Ms. Ennui has sewn these lovelies that flex at the knees perfectly, and have delicious emboss'd leather details that I cannot resist. I thank you!

(Please click on the photos to see larger detailed photos)

Suit: NachtMusik “Steamy Velvet Damask” Jacket, Corset and Leggings (Steam Hunt)
Cravat: To-a-T “Ravenswood Regency Cravat” (unavailable)
Boots: Lassitude and Ennui “Overknee Boots” (mesh viewer required)
Hat and Boutonniere: Hatpins “Spare Parts Top Hat and Boutonniere” (Steam Hunt)
Walking Stick: Oddments “VS Steam 4 Walking Stick”(unavailable)
Earrings: PixelDolls “Earrings – Bathory” (mesh viewer required)(gift)
Hair: Truth “Zaria”
Skin: Curio “:GP: Ecru-Doily” (unavailable)
Eyes: Fashism “Sunrise”
Poses: by Animazoo and Long Awkward Pose

Love,
Serene

STEAMTECH BOT

2011-09-03T19:36:00.008-06:00

Copper clad bits adorn the leather hatband on Ms. Reghan Straaf's offering for the Steam Hunt. I always so look forward to her chapeaux.

She included a boutonniere to match the hat, but I thought it obscured the fashionable cut of my buttoned canvas vest. (I shall try it on the lapel of the Nachtmusik Suit. Perhaps Tomorrow?)

The outfit is pieced together from the Ladies' and Men's prizes at Orquidea. The Gown was well crafted, but showed a bit too much underside cleavage for my personal taste. I had fun resizing the dramatic collar and shoulderpads, and tinting the boots to make them more compatible with the clothes ... More tomorrow!

Hat: Hatpins "Steam Spare Parts Top Hat" (with functioning clock)(Steam Hunt Prize)
Gown: Orchidea "Steampunk Vest" and "Steampunk Dress" (Steam Hunt Prize)
Boots: Aftershok "Steam Boots" (also includes Digi-boots)(Steam Hunt Prize)
Skin: ND/MD "Galaxia Skin Darkstar"
Eyes: Frick "Clockwork Eyes" (unavailable)

Love,
Serene

I HAVE A QUESTION

2011-09-01T22:51:00.009-06:00

Yesterday I was trying on older fashions that I still love. Sometimes I do this when I am cleaning out my closet; I eventually dispose old things whose style or construction is too dated.

And then there are the exceptions. For example, these pants. I so love these pants. I don't think I could ever throw them away ... But along comes mesh. And after seeing this picture of Achariya in Rebel Hope's new gown (in red!!) I am loving how the skirt has sculpted drapery that can fold with the avatar as she sits in her chair. It got me thinking.

So here is my question ... What older pieces of clothing would you like to see reworked in mesh to extend their life ? (In real life, I have had shoes repaired, and there was that fave skirt that I had a new waistband put on at the tailor's.) For me, I vote for the Trap Hakama pants. I would love for each leg to be one continuous piece, instead of breaking at the knee. Please please please pretty please? *begs Selos Dae shamelessly*

Jacket: Blue Blood "Suomi" (this color unavailable, includes tails not shown)
Shirt: Whippet and Buck "I'll be a Ghost" (unavailable)
Pants: Trap "Hakama"
Shoes: Lassitude and Ennui "Estampies"
Hat: Rapture "Cossack Hat"
Hair: Lamb "Teased Up" (gift)
Skin: Glam Affair "Layla Dark" (old from the Dressing Room)
Eyes: Fashism "Sunrise"
Lashes: by Exodi and Glow Studio
Eyeshadow: La Malvada Mujer "B.N. #2"
Lipstick: Glam Affair "Layla Lipstick - risque"

Love,
Serene

LOOKIE LOOKIE !

2011-08-23T19:49:00.003-06:00

*rubs hands together gleefully*

Love,
Serene

LOOKIE !

2011-08-22T11:05:00.002-06:00

See what I spotted when I was out and about? I'm really loving the theme. Here's looking forward to September!

Love,
Serene

LE FAY DANS LA NUIT

2011-08-17T21:32:00.009-06:00

I'm inspired to go dark, dark, dark by the fabulous Glam Affair skin from the Platinum Hunt. I put together a quick Urban look with menswear from the Make Him Over Hunt. In particular I had a good laugh trying on the pants on my male avatar ... it comes with a sculpted "bulge" that is a little TOO anatomically correct. (Hell no I'm not modeling that thing LOL.)

Dusted off some yummy brown Hoorenbeek boots from my closet. You know how there are some things you buy that you still love a year later? Like that.

Jewels and nails, feminine and dangerous ...

... Okay one more, to give you a better look at the new cat's eyes from Poetic Colors. As well as several beautiful colors of irises, They come with light or dark eyewhites, and prim eye reflections. Just lovely.

Jacket: Mortality "Assassin Jacket" (MHOH6 Hunt Prize)
Shirt: Coded "Casual Male Sweater" (MHOH6 Hunt Prize)
Pants: Zipper "Classic Corduroy - Brown" (MHOH6 Hunt Prize)
Ring/Nails: Mandala "Milky Way Ring and Nails"
Necklace: Naith Smit "Rock 'n Rolla Pearl Necklace"
Boots: Hoorenbeek "Alberta Boots"
Skin: Glam Affair "Amelie Black Soul" (Platinum Hunt L$10)
Hair: Exile "Buffy" (Platinum Hunt L$10)
Horns: Illusions "Bite"
Ears: Trap "Beastie Drow Elfs"
Eyes: Poetic Color "cat-coal"

Love,
Serene

THE WANNABE VAMPYRE HUNTER

2011-08-14T23:14:00.010-06:00

I'm gonna bag me a monster tonight.

I've been hangin' out in the cemetery all afternoon. But its getting close now.

With a fresh grave ready, there ought to be something bad stirring around.

But I sure hate the last half hour of waiting.

Just for laughs, today I am modeling a bare chested rockstar-wannabe vamp hunter. I laugh now, but I remember when I was a kid I was scared of things like vampires from watching the movies. But the monster hunters looked pretty stupid to me. Why didn't they just leave some donated IV bloodbags for the vampires? Why didn't they weld on steel collars that keep the vampire from biting their necks? Why did the women in these movies always trip over something when they were running away? Why do all the victims have to be so darn stupid all the time?!?

This outfit is mostly courtesy of the Make Him Over Hunt which is running through August 20. For more information, including a Teleport List and pictures of some of the Hunt Prizes, you may visit their website or join their inworld group. At the starting point you can also pick up a hint list.

Outfit: N1Co "VIC armor" (MHOH6 Hunt Prize)
Boots: Deco "Mud Boots" (not a hunt prize)
Glasses: Air "Stella" (MHOH6 Hunt Prize)
Hairbase: JOMO "etched hair 08a" (MHOH6 Hunt Prize)
Skin: Prodigal "Ale_MHOH6_special_bald" (MHOH6 Hunt Prize)
Dagger: Harbinger and Stormie "Dagger of Faith" (with combat HUD, not a hunt prize)
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose
Location: Transylvania

Love,
Serene

HAVE YOU SEEN MY QUILL?

2011-08-10T20:00:00.005-06:00

Not all of the students at Hogwarts are good looking. Not all of us are Quidditch players. Some of us are shy. Some of us have second-hand togs. Some of us don't have a date for the Yule Ball.

Ravenclaw students are often the "nerds" of the wizard world. Smart or not, a lot of us don't really come into our own until after we have left school.

Have you seen my quill?

This is one bandwagon on which I am pleased to jump. There are plenty of Pottermaniacs hidden in closets around the metaverse, and with the rest of them I am looking forward to finding out if the rumour is true ... will there finally be a beautifully well-constructed Hogwarts in Second Life? I can't wait!! *swoons*

Sweater: Digital Girl Design “Ravenclaw Sweater”
Shirt: Schadenfreude “White Oxford”
Tie: Schadenfreude “You-Know-Who Necktie”
Skirt: TokiDoki “Le Frills Skirt” (tinted)
Shoes/Socks: Fashionably Dead “Tap Shoes”
Feather: Passion Moments “Feather”
Wand: Wicked Workshop “Gentleman’s Wand”
House Badge: Grackles Outfitters “Hogwarts House Patch” (free, texture change)
Glasses: Intrigue “Looney Specks”
Bag: Edelweiss “School Bag” (includes six poses)
Hair: Lelutka “Knotted Hair” (with hairbase)
Skin: Mother Goose’s “Yvonne Freckle” (dollarbie)

Love,
Serene

THINGS YOU DON'T WANT TO MEET

2011-08-08T23:42:00.004-06:00

They're not even here to feed me or strike a bargain. They will pay for that.

I charged about the island, looking for the foolish witch or necromancer who summoned me.

Darkness and the remnants of bloody rituals everywhere. The smell is making me so hungry ...

Ahh, THERE you are.

Really you should click on this last photo and take a good look. the lavalike white heat, rows of teeth, and the mucus and drool hanging from the roof of my mouth are impressive. And the last thing you will ever see!

Every now and again I just have to visit Grendel's Children to see the non-human avatars. If you have never visited, Grendel's has a huge store in the sky, and four ground-level sims for roleplay below. If you would like to be a dragon, a steampunk spider, or a cyber replicant, Grendel's has many inespensive avatars that are usually modifiable if you like to customise. The Insanity Demon Avatar that I am wearing includes a HUD that lets me fight, breathe flame, growl ... worth many return visits.

The Realm of Black Thorn Adult-themed Roleplay area on the Sharkbite Sim is a nice build. In the landing area, read the rules notecard, and if you decide to walk into the "adult" roleplay area, you enter at your own risk. Bwahaha.

Love,
Serene

HORIZON DREAM

2011-08-05T08:36:00.006-06:00

I arrived at Horizon Dream at sunset, relieved by the cool of the coming darkness.

August just isn't my favorite month.

But cool twilight is the perfect time to go for a walk.

Shirt: League "Broderie Anglais Blouse"
Skirt: MNK*Shop Nikukyu "Chiffon_dot miniskirt"
Shoes: Gos "Espadrilles"
Hair: Truth "Zaria"
Skin: Curio ":GP: Moonbeam [Light] Pout-Melancholy"
Eyes: Fashism "Sunrise"
Eyelashes: Glow Studio "Innocent.eyelashes - pure"
Eyeshadow: Natural Beauty "makeup 20"
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose
Location: Horizon Dream

Love,
Serene

HOT HOT SUMMER

2011-07-23T02:09:00.006-06:00

Ready to go for an ice cream cone?

Yeah, me too.

This summer’s Seasons Hunt is a sweet treat as usual, and of course I cannot show all the beautiful hunt prizes, which range from beautiful clothing, shoes and accessories for men and women, to carefully crafted house wares and a lovely beach house. For those who don’t choose to idealize the season, there are several sunburns and zinc treatments available in this hunt, and Miss Shippe even provided heat rash and mosquito bites. (A little too much reality for me.) Enjoy!

Shirt: Paper.doll “Aria” (SeasonsHunt)(removed the balloon skirt)
Undershirt: Nanuk “elov ripped tank blue striped” (Seasons Hunt)
Pants: Kyoot “Elbo Trousers” (Seasons Hunt)
Shoes: Sleepy Eddy “Boston Sandals” (Seasons Hunt)
Necklace: Caroline’s Jewelry “Sea Necklace” (Seasons Hunt)
Necklace and Bracelet: Duh! “Colors of Summer” (Seasons Hunt)
Hair: Shag “Hearts Flutter” (Seasons Hunt)
Skin: Curio “:GP: Moonbeam [Dark] Pout-Melancholy”
Sunburn Tattoo: Antebellum “Sun Lover’s Torment” (Seasons Hunt)
Eyes: Insufferable Dastard “Summertime Reflections” (Seasons Hunt)
Eyelashes: Glow Studio “Innocent.eyelashes – pure”
Scooter Pose Prop: pda “Ca plane pour moi”(Seasons Hunt)
Poses: included in Scooter and Long Awkward Pose

Love,
Serene

RIDICULOUSLY

2011-07-12T16:21:00.003-06:00

Don't hate me just because I am ridiculously good looking. It is not without effort! Today I employ the fabulous hairstyling services of Gauze, my personal stylist ...

My own patented Look, I call it Mysterious Steel ...

A kilotonne of attitude ...

And of course I must always have dominating boots. You want to smell the leather now, don't you?

Collar: CheerNo “Lory”
Shirt: Plastik “Hale”
Pants: silentsparrow “Moonchild Suit Pants”
Boots: Lapointe and Bastchild “Laceup Platform Boots”
Hair: Gauze “Wisp”
Skin: Plastik “Vaelian”
Eyes: Fashism “Sunrise”
Eyeshadow: Aleida “Makeup 1” (old Skin Fair gift)

Love,
Serene *dies laughing*

PAPER BIRDS

2011-07-11T14:18:00.005-06:00

I need to practice origami. It's been years and seeing this cute kimono brought it back: Sitting on the floor with an instruction book when I was eight or nine years old. Beautiful paper spread all around on the floor, from which I had chosen an intricate blue and silver printed tissue.

It was the gorgeous paper that drew me in. But after I made a little flock of colored paper cranes, I loved the little birds enough to keep folding them in pristine white sheets. Over later years of drawing and painting my taste expanded beyond beautiful glowing jewel tones, to include black and white, and all the subtle tones of gray in between.

... I fell in love the moment I saw this sim. When I studied Art in college, I had a major crush on mixed Charcoal and Ink Washes.

Kimono: Yumeji “yukata orizuru”
Hair: Ivanka Akina “Akina” (I tinted the flowers)(at Hair Fair)
Skin: Glam Affair “Sakura”
Eyes: Fashism “Sunrise”
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose
Location: China

Love,
Serene

BUBBLEGUM!

2011-07-10T13:30:00.008-06:00

Just a quickie. Between all the new Hair I "had to have" from Hair Fair, and some new Curio skins, I don't have much money left for the rest of the month. But I picked up many gifts at Hair Fair too, and some of them are perfect for Gogo's Bubblegum Weekend!

I love the messy wisps on top and the crazy color on this LollipopZ hair. It comes in three parts, with two pieces that attach to the shoulders.

Now this cute little bob is by Lamb. It comes in a megapack in all her shop colors and was labeled "Colortesters" but I think they're adorable, and because each one is only four prims I think you're seeing my new Event and Fair hair. Four prims doesn't add that much to sim lag does it?

And I think I'll finish off with this truly bubblegum hair from BC322. I love candy!

Red: LollipopZ “Dolce” Gift ... with American Bazaar Lipgloss and Hairbase by booN
Purple: Lamb “Bob” Colortester Gift ... with Curio Lipstick (old gift)
Pink: BC322 “Dee-Dolly” Gift ... with Mynerva Lipstick

Also wearing Skin by Curio, Eyes by Fashism, and Shirt by Whippet and Buck

Love,
Serene

BLANCHE FRAICHE

2011-07-01T17:03:00.008-06:00

I am so enjoying the Truth District opening … Lovely designers, beautiful scenery, and the buzz of good company. Standing room only.

Several of the designers timed the release of new creations to coincide with the District Opening; in particular Gala Phoenix released three new skins, with six makeups each. As soon as I saw the Curio sign, I knew I was in big big trouble. You know how am about her skin, don't you?

This soft, glowing, beautiful skin I am wearing is a gift. (I would have paid!) *happy sigh* I'm still trying to choose one or two more ...

Shirt: Whippet and Buck “Claven Lace” (opening group gift at Truth District, it is a bit transparent so I wore two layers)
Belt: Pacadi “Mairey Leather Belt” (unavailable)
Skirt: 5th and Oxford “Seaside Sweetie” (L$50 at Closing Sale)
Jewelry: Lassitude and Ennui “Bleeding Heart” (texture change HUD)
Shoes: Pixel Mode “Baby T’s”
Hair: Truth “Becky” (multicolor pack, opening group gift at Truth District)
Hairbase: by booN
Skin: Curio “:GP: Airhead-Truth District” (opening group gift at Truth District)
Eyes: Fashism “Sunrise”
Eyelashes: by Exodi and Glow Studio
Poses: by Diesel Works and Long Awkward Pose

Love,
Serene

IT'S TIME

2011-07-01T10:07:00.004-06:00

The new Truth District shopping sim opened about half an hour ago. The sim is now fully loaded and for the next couple of days you will be seeing the sim opening gifts all over the feeds. Click, click, click go all the mouses of people trying to get lucky and TP in the moment someone leaves. My computer isn't really up for that so I was glad to be invited to visit before the crazy began. And I have to tell you, that place is dangerous. An alarming number of lovely stores spread themselves out before me, tempting me to empty out my wallet on the first day of the month. ;D Recommend joining the Truth District Update Group and running over there to look!

MY SECRET CRUSH

2011-06-28T17:24:00.004-06:00

There were those boys in school that you could giggle about with your friends. And then there was that boy that you watched when no one was looking. He was nerdy, sweet and shy and mostly overlooked. That was just fine with me.

Because secretly I was a nerd myself.

Let out your inner nerd for the next couple of weeks on the Geekgasm Hunt. It doesn't have to be your secret anymore!

Shirt: TGIS “Nerd is the New Sexy” (Geekgasm Hunt Prize)
Shorts: The Sea Hole “DNA Summersuit Shorts” (Geekgasm Hunt Prize)
Socks: Pig “Argyle Sock Mit Suspender”
Gloves Pig “Gloves Mit Suspenders” (only at Fungus store)
Shoes: House of Curios “Sneaker Wedges”
Earrings: Undefined Lilies “Nerding You” (Geekgasm Hunt Prize)
Necklace: Yellow Berry “Lunatic Lanyards” (Geekgasm Hunt Prize)
Book: Boof “D&D Player Handbook” (Geekgasm Hunt Prize)
Tied Sweater: Beatnik “ShockedNerdSweater” (Geekgasm Hunt Prize)
Hair: LeLutka “Rykiel”
Skin: Natural Beauty “Tulip”
Eyes: Fashism “Sunrise”
Eyelashes: Glow Studio “Innocent.eyelashes – pure”
Poses: by Animazoo (altered by book animation)

Love,
Serene

SUMMERTIME

2011-06-25T12:32:00.004-06:00

Summertime
Summertime

Sum-sum-summertime ... ooOOoo!

I'm loving the Berries "Headfreezer" Animation Override. For a long time I've mostly avoided very long hairstyles because many mocap poses and dances put my hair into my shoulders and clothes. The headfreezer fixes that! Thank you.

Top: The Sea Hole “Shiarra Tank”
Pants: The Secret Store “Embroidered Flared Pants”
Shoes: Treads “77 Loafers”
Hair: Exile “Lucia” (at the Dressing Room)
Skin: Your Skin and Your Shape “Penelope” (at the Dressing Room)
Eyes: Fashism “Sunrise”
Eyelashes: Glow Studio “Innocent.eyelashes – pure”
AO: Berries “Headfreezer”
Poses: by Don’t Freak Out

Love,
Serene

OUT OF UNIFORM

2011-06-22T12:36:00.004-06:00

What a mess. Disarranged jacket, sloppy tie, whose shirt is that? ... And to top it off, a shiner.

A disgrace to the service.

Hat: Deco “Officer’s Cap”
Jacket: Lelutka “Charlie”
Tie: Aitui “Skinny Tie” (includes tucked and full neckbands)
Shirt: Indi Designs “Shirt Checked” (from the Dan outfit)
Leather Pants: The Abyss “Chaos Leather Pants” (also includes belt not shown)
Boots: Edge Grafica “31 Engineer Boots” (L$1 on Second Life Marketplace)
Hairbase: Aitui “Standard Hairbase – 004” (no sideburns)
Skin: Curio “:GP: Acorn [Dark] Battle Royale-Shiner 1”
Eyes: Fashism “Sunrise Eyes”
Eyelashes: Glow Studio “Innocent.eyelashes – pure”
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose

Love,
Serene

QUEEN OF THE UNDEAD

2011-06-21T13:40:00.006-06:00

They bring the caught to be judged, and the weak to be eaten.

They come to worship, or to ask for favors.

They hope I am in a good mood.

Today's post was motivated by the lovely and macabre Succubus Skins that I purchased at Ugly Duck's Summer Sale. Several multipacks of skin marked down to L$250, including this horror themed skin, and several others more normal. Don't miss! After the sale ends these skins will be retired.

Outfit: Bare Rose “Ghol Lady”
Skin: Ugly Duck “Lilith – Succubus” (4-pack for L$250 at the Summer Sale)
Eyes: Ugly Duck “Lily Black”
Eyelashes: by Exodi
Facial Snarl: House of Curios “HOC – expresso HUD” (free)
Animations: by Long Awkward Pose
Location: Omega Point

Love,
Serene

TRUE COLORS

2011-06-13T22:43:00.010-06:00

I wanted to do another post inspired by the 1980s. Perhaps I should apologize in advance?

... nah, it could be worse. The hair is bleached blonde with colored streaks a la Cyndi Lauper, and pretty big on top, but not too big. Yes the jewel-toned collar is turned up, and the shoulder padding is quite large. My earrings dangle and my bangles jangle. Large brightly colored lips in honor of Kelly LeBrock. (If you never heard of her, she was the one with the pillowy lips when Angelina Jolie and Liv Tyler were in diapers.)

But I could be wearing an izod polo, a plaid shirt with gold threads in it, or an aerobics outfit with a headband, belt, stirrup leggings and striped knit legwarmers, a la Jane Fonda. I could have a giant spiral perm. Or ... hammerpants *shiver*

Even the deities of fashion know better than to recycle old fashion fads without alteration. They are modified and toned down to make them more palatable. Still, I cringed the other day when I saw the cork and hemp wedge heels at the shoe store. I can tolerate a lot of things in Second Life that I can't stand in real life.

Jacket: The Secret Store “Mrs. Jones’ Jacket”
Leggings: Leaks “Zombie Got Me” (unavailable I think)
Earring: Je Suis “Africain Earhoops” (Texture Change)(Accessories Fair)
Bracelets: Erratic “Twisted Bracelets” (Texture Change)(Accessories Fair)
Shoes: Purrfect 10 “Serenity Lazy Sunday Rose”
Hair: Exile “Voodoo” (Texture Change Streaks)(Chic Birthday Event)
Skin: Glam Affair “Layla” (Zombie Popcorn Hunt Prize)
Lipstick: Glam Affair “Layla Lipstick – risque” (a zillion colors available L$50 each)
Eyeshadow: Natural Beauty “Makeup Set 14 – makeup 5”
Eyelashes: by Exodi
Eyes: Fashism “Sunrise”
Nail Polish: Tres Blah “Nail Color (Eggplant)” (from multipack)
Poses: Dismorph and ImpEle

Love,
Serene

PIU TRISTE

2011-06-11T09:52:00.004-06:00

I must, must show you this lovely mask from La Gyo's Mademoiselle collection. For some reason I was especially loving the one orange flower, so I wore burnt golden orange.

Believe it or not, this delicious mask is La Gyo's gift on the Zombie Popcorn Hunt. It's amazing. And ladies, I bet you can't go there without buying other pieces from this collection. I bought another floral headpiece and some pretty shoes, that I'll show you as soon as I can find just the right dress to wear with them.

Mask: La Gyo “Floral blind mask”
Bolero: G Field “Ruffle Bolero”
Lace Collar: PixelDolls “Bella.Gold.Lace Collar”
Hairpiece: booN “DARE82”
Hairbase: booN “gathered raised hairbase”
Skin: Natural Beauty “Monica”

Love,
Serene

THE ZOMBIES RETURN

2011-06-10T04:30:00.001-06:00

Once again it is time for all of us blood-spatter and Crazy-Dave-lovin nutters to scour the grid for the Zombie-themed hunt goodies. This season's Zombie Popcorn Hunt is on until June 15th, so if you haven't gone, you still have a few days. I love this hunt! This year's offerings are particularly generous in the area of skins and tattoos. So here are a few ...

Skin: Sorry.Asia "Tokio"
Bloody Face: “V.E.L #61 – busted”
Stomach Wound: Repulse “Zombie Stomach Wound” (at #1 Zombie Popcorn HQ)
Tattoo: arnadi “Hell Mex”
Bag: Deco “Fingersnatcher Bag” (This bag is top-shelf fab and nauseating simultaneously!)
Shorts: Kosh “Linen Shorts”
Eyes: Repulse “Noxious”

Skin: Glam Affair “Layla Light” (You can buy yum lipstick layers for this skin for only L$50!)
Safetypins/Bloodies: Razorblade Jacket “Safetypin Face”
Eyes: Repulse “Lacerated”
Hair: Mina “Tinke”

Skin: Filthy “ZombiePopcorn Hunt.Skin”
Face Injury Tattoo: Damned “Survival Face AddOn”
Eyes: Damned “Survival Eyes”
Hair: Mina “Tinke”

Love,
Serene

p.s. If you don't know Crazy Dave, go online and try out the game "Plants vs. Zombies." Yeah.

AIRY FAIRY

2011-06-09T21:23:00.006-06:00

A light comfortable outfit for the first really warm day I've had.

So comfy I ran around in it to do errands. And shopping.

Jacket: love me “girlie cape jacket”
Undershirt: Whippet and Buck “Hykova Buttoned Tank”
Leggings: choramimi “leggings lace”
Bag: rcbg “bohindian bag”
Shoes: Duh! “Floral Linen Flats”
Hair: Lamb “Isolation”
Hairbase: booN “gathered raised hairbase”
Skin: Mynerva “Bianca Latte” (at the Chic Birthday Event)
Eyebrows: Mynerva “Bianca Eyebrows Black”
Eyes: Fashism “Sunrise”
Poses: by Animazoo (and included in Handbag)

Love,
Serene

CLOSE ENCOUNTER

2011-05-27T21:19:00.008-06:00

He should have been afraid, but he was too busy checking my silhouette. I turned toward him and rattled my tentacles a bit. I could see the fear as soon as he saw them coiling and uncoiling. Perhaps he'd mistaken them for hair in the dark.

But he didn't run. That was odd.

So I put the human in his place. But he lay there and stared. He still didn't run.

I swear some humans don't have any sense of self-preservation at all.

(I was inspired by these GrollWerks cyber arms. They can be retextured lots of ways and they don't have to be shiny like I made them here. I preferred the matte black but it didn't really photograph well. The result was fab fun, especially since the gas mask made me sound like Lord Vader.

One more note; about the boots. Their shape is very creative but the boots are obviously made for people with very thin calves and large feet. (Think anorexic couture models.) When I put them on, the contrast between the tiny calves and muscular thighs was jarring, so I made a new, much thinner shape. I try to avoid doing this but I really do love boots.)

Arms: GrollWerks "Cybernetic Arms" (with HUD to customize color, texture, and shine)
Breastplate: Paradox "Plastron" (texture change)
Abdominal Plate: Paradox "Abdomen Armor"
Mask: Hate This "gas mask" (with breathing vapor and sound effect)
Bodysuit: PixelDolls "Elipse"
Boots: Dilly Dolls "Sonata" (with color-change HUD for boots, straps, soles, heels and buttons)
Tentacle Hairdo: Tekeli-li "Thasaidon" (with color and glow change controls)

Love,
Serene

THE REDHEADED STEPCHILD

2011-05-24T16:03:00.009-06:00

The My Stuff Bags Foundation provides dufflebags of toys, books, clothing, and toiletries to children who enter shelters or foster care with few (if any!) personal belongings of their own. Through June 5, the First Annual Kids Fair is raising funds for this lovely organization. You may read more about the My Stuff Bags foundation at their website.

Each of the participating designers has at least one vendor marked to donate either 100 percent or 50 percent of sales to the charity fund. I know that children are a mostly invisible minority in Second Life, but in Real Life they deserve our support. I have in mind a cousin who through no fault of her own, landed repeatedly in Child Protective Services, foster care, and on and on.

Clothing: Larnia Kids “Snack Attack” Outfit
Skin: Mother Goose’s “Leoni Hurt_LB1”
Hair: Bryce “Angst”
Bandage: Reek “Bandaids”
Teddy Bear: Glitterati “Huggable Little Bear” (Charity Benefit Item)
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose, and Bear-Hug included in Bear
1st Annual Kids Fair: it's over here ,
... or ask Riley Sapphire, Cindy Lu, or Lishi Moonbeam for information.

Love,
Serene

EYES THAT FOLLOW YOU

2011-05-22T21:59:00.005-06:00

Two pairs of eyes really. I finally decided to try some loverly new eyes from Fashism, but the title is inspired by the necklace. The little painted portrait is beautiful but if you stare a while you realize that it is watching you. Her eyes blink. Spooky.

I wanted something suitably ornate so I put together several pieces from Pixel Dolls.

... and sacrificed the photo of the full length skirt and bustle. I love bustles but I am showing these GField shoes instead. Yummy. Why yes, I am a shoe whore. Thank you for noticing. I love you too. :D

Jewels: Donna Flora “Dreamer” (the portrait is animated!!)
Gown: Pixel Dolls “Timepiece” outfits (mixed pieces)
Shoes: G Field “Vilda” (slightly tinted - from Shoe Fair)
Skin: Glam Affair “Layla Grey” (the Dressing Room)
Lipstick: Mynerva “Lipstick Style 2 – Deep Plum”
Hairbase 1: Tiny Bird “Blacks Pack Hairbase” (I wear this for the lower hairline)
Hairbase 2: booN “gathered raised hairbase”
Hairpiece: booN “DARE82 black”
Eyes: Fashism “Sunrise Eyes – Deep Grey”
Eyelashes: by Exodi
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose

Love,
Serene

GIMME SUGAR

2011-05-21T08:19:00.008-06:00

Digging around my bloggitybloggage closet I ran across a neglected bag of things from the Albero Gacha Festival. (Yes, I should be more organized.) My favorite schtuffs were these sweets. The Ring Pop took me way back but I restrained myself from popping more and more coins in the vendor to get all the flavors. And who doesn't like fruity popsicles? You know you love them. All calories hand-removed by elves.

It isn't too late for you to go to the Gacha Festival for a bit of cheap fun. If any of you haven't tried one of these events before, these inexpensive little vending machines randomly choose an item for you. Almost all of these things are transferrable so you can give any duplicates to your friends, or maybe trade to get the items you want.

Each popsicle comes with a matching tattoo layer that colors your lips and tongue. *grins*

Popsicle and Liptint: TOSL "Juicy Lips Tattoo" and Popsicle (Albero Gacha Festival)
Ring: Yummy "Candy Ring - Green" (Albero Gacha Festival)
Jacket: Emery "Jacket Sheena"
Shirt: Fishy Strawberry "Jewelled Cashmere"
Pants: Ibizarre "Leather Pants (silver)"
Glasses: Gos "Custom Eyeware v.3.0"
Shoes: Gos "Dare Bootie - Platinum"
Hair: Dernier Cri "Taylor"
Skin: Mynerva "Platinum Blue Lips" (this was a hunt version, unavailable)
Eyes: Poetic Color "Night Rain"
Eyelashes: Glow Studio "Innocent.eyelashes - pure"
Fingernails: Tres Blah "Nail Colour" (multipack)

Love,
Serene

TWEEDY GIRL

2011-05-19T22:28:00.006-06:00

I love when an outfit can be feminine and comfy at the same time. ... These lovely Sea Hole jeans are decorated with painted purple flowers and some cute little denim ruffles.

I show the back side too cause I wanted you to notice the cute elbow patches on the jacket. They are an add-on layer from Alphavillain; the multipack includes several different suedes, leathers, plaids and tweeds you can layer over other jackets. Just love it over the Mon Tissu tweed.

And some soft little velvet flats with satin ribbon roses. Perfect.

Jacket: Mon Tissu “Rockaby Blazer”
Jacket Elbow Patches: Alphavillain “Elbow Patches”
Blouse: Whippet and Buck “Claven Lace Blouse”
Jeans: The Sea Hole “Flourish Jeans”
Shoes: Absolution “Rose Flats”
Hair: Lelutka “Rykiel”
Skin: Curio “:GP: Bean [Dark] Pout-Whine 2”
Eyes: Poetic Color “Night Rain”
Eyelashes: Glow Studio “Innocent.eyelashes – pure”
Poses: by Don’t Freak Out, Long Awkward Pose and Snooky’s

Love,
Serene

FAUN AT DAWN

2011-05-12T11:32:00.001-06:00

Watching the stream below for breakfast. Why, what does this cute little faun eat for breakfast? The first furry critter that shows up for a drink of water. You shouldn't watch.

Sun's coming up.

Sadly, doing these atmospheric lighting posts hides a lot of the beautiful detail so you can't completely see how gorgeous the hair and her cute faun-legs are. I try to take turns between posts in-world and posts in studio lighting. It's an uncomfortable compromise but I can't bring myself to give up on either type of photography. But if you click on the photos for details, you can still see the swirly tattooed skin, the soft folds of the sculpted scarf, and her scary beautiful eyes! Love love love.

Scarf: Mr. Poet "Knit Scarf Left_Purple" (part of Cape Coat Turtleneck and KnitScarf outfit)
Vest: Gauze "Elistyl Jacket"
Shorts: Pink Outfitters "Roxy Bermuda Shorts"
Hat/Hair: Mr. Poet "Bakerboy Cap and Hair"
Gloves: Bubble "Floral Corset Gloves" (they lace up on the inside)
Skin: Plastik "Ataciara Elven Valah Dark Homicide"
Ears: Plastik "Ataciara Ears Valah"
Faun Legs: Gauze "Faun Legs"
Eyes: Poetic Color "Fairy Eyes - wolf dark"
Eyelashes: Glow Studio "Innocent.eyelashes - pure"
Poses: by Diesel Works
Location: Straylight

Love,
Serene

LA BRUJA

2011-05-07T07:23:00.007-06:00

Should I quote Shakespeare with the three witches? Or something from the Brothers Grimm? No, only one thing keeps popping into my head ...

I put a spell on you, And now you're mine
You can't stop the things I do, I ain't lyin'
It's been three hundred years, Right down to the day
Now the witch is back, And there's hell to pay

I put a spell on you
And now you're mine!

Love Bette Midler!

Gown: silentsparrow “Corbie Suite” (Limited Edition “penny” color)
Jacket Cuffs: silentsparrow “Corbie Suit” (Limited Edition color, unavailable)
Hair: Exile “Tempest”
Skin: Plastik “Ataciara-Elven-Valah-Dark-Homicide” (past 50L Friday)
Eyes: Poetic Color “Night Rain”
Eyelashes: Glow Studio “Innocent.eyelashes – pure”
Claws: La Malvada Mujer “Claws Black” (Happy When it Rains event)
Poses: by Dismorph and Long Awkward Pose
Location: Alpha Point

Love,
Serene

PALELY LOITERING

2011-05-04T20:29:00.009-06:00

This lovely translucent skin from the Ugly Duck shop is an exclusive charity benefit item at the Culture Shock event. As I wear it here it looks fairly normal, but there is also an included "alien" textured skin and a scary looking set of eyes that I look forward to using for roleplay. The cream and roses complexion made me think of wearing Ms. Ennui's set of jewels. Using the texture change controls you can color the metals, pearls, flowers, ribbon, and even the lace. I love the flexibility.

I love the brocade and lace textures on the white. It is so hard to pull off white clothing! I had already purchased the blouse from Sur, and the wrap top and miniskirt are gifts from Ivey Deschanel.

Wrap Blouse: Snatch “Wrap Top” (Culture Shock Gift)
Shirt: Sur “[lace shirt] white” (Culture Shock Benefit Item)
Skirt: Snatch “Chicago Lace Mini Skirt” (Culture Shock Gift)
Leggings: LaViere “Basic Color Pants (White)” (modified pant cuffs)
Jewels: Lassitude and Ennui “Ophelia” (with texture change HUD)
Shoes: Maitreya “Group Gift Pumps”
Hair: Exile “Liv”
Skin: Ugly Duck “Swan – Lily Wept” (Culture Shock Exclusive Benefit Item)
Eyes: Poetic Color “Night Rain”
Eyelashes: Glow Studio “Innocent.eyelashes – pure”
Poses: by Lazy Places (now Terho)
Photo Studio: by N30

Love,
Serene

END OF SHIFT

2011-04-30T10:06:00.006-06:00

All night guarding the ship. Dull, dull, dull.

Relief due any minute.

Glad you're here, man! I'm hungry, what're they serving in the canteen?

Catsuit: PixelDolls “(Elipse).Scarab”
Belt: Blitzed “Plugged Belt” (with texture change HUD)
Mask: DV8 “BioTox Mask”
Boots: MEB “Stiletto Boots”
Lasgun: Operations “Chimera”
Hair: Waka and Yuki “Hair 145”
Skin: Mynerva “Summer Nights”
Eyes: Poetic Color “Night Rain”
Poses: by Animazoo and included in Gun
Location: Insilico Ground Level

Love,
Serene

HAYFEVER

2011-04-27T22:00:00.007-06:00

Even though he has allergies, he still brought me flowers.

I don't have any eyedrops, sorry.

What a romantic! Loving spring.

I so enjoyed the Seasons Hunt for spring; I wanted to encourage the men to go too. Some of the hunt is just for you <3 ... I could have worn a shirt but I was enjoying Inotto's abs. Of course this season's hunt also includes boatloads of lovelies for the ladies and quite a lot of home furnishings. Enjoy!

Skin: Sacred "Andrew T3 - Beard v2 - hair" (Seasons Hunt prize)
Eyes: Hoot "Allergy Eyes (Blue)" (multi-color pack)(Seasons Hunt prize)
Pants: Valiant "3/4 Chino Style Pants" (Seasons Hunt prize)
Bouquet: Olive Juice "Spring Fling" (pose built in)(Seasons Hunt prize)

Love,
Serene

GOING HOME

2011-04-23T13:53:00.005-06:00

Some days don't you want to be a kid again?

What can now be said, oh, little one on the other side?
Dance until the band stops playing, sing with all your might.

Jacket: LaViere "Short Puffy Cardigan"
Dress: Couverture "Ta Fleur"
Socks: Scribble "Floppy Bow Socks"
Boots: Gos "Docs" (the floral pattern and yellow laces are add-ons)
Hair: Waka and Yuki "Hair New 123"
Skin: Mother Goose "Yvonne -freckle-1L" (dollarbie)
Eyes: Poetic Color "Night Rain"
Location: Happy Mood

Happy Easter!

Love,
Serene

SIMPLY

2011-03-28T10:01:00.015-06:00

There is a lot to be said for a simple classy dress. This one from Kunglers is perfectly crafted, and thoughtfully designed. I love that it can be dressed up or down ... it includes three belts: the moderately flashy gold belt I am wearing, a more conservative brown leather belt, and a bolder red one. Well done.

I matched it with these "Jaguar" print shoes from Pixel Mode to kick up the fun a bit. I am impressed with the quality of the shoes, and the scripted HUD. You really should go try some of these on, if you haven't already.

Dress: Kunglers "Donatella"
Shoes: Pixel Mode "Lady T"
Earrings: Pididdle "Heavy Sleep"
Hair: Exile "Dina"
Skin: Curio ":GP: Bean [Light] Pout-Whine 2"
Eyes: Poetic Color "Night Rain"
Eyelashes: Glow Studio "Innocent. eyelashes - pure"
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose Photostudio: by N30

Love,
Serene

CYBER AT NIGHT

2011-03-24T19:55:00.007-06:00

Insilico has become a premiere Cyber spot. Looking back I remember when it was a fifth of the size it is today. Every time I visit it has grown and changed.

These days there is a new cybernetic tender at the Blue Ant.

Some things never change though ... if you leave the well lit central area and explore the back alleys and lower levels, be prepared to take care of yourself ...

... And have the common sense not to go where you don't belong.
(Unless you are looking for trouble?)

Many beautiful spots hidden around this station, if you take the time to look. This time I stumbled across a fantastic arboretum.

(INSILICO is a roleplaying sim with shopping, but you may visit to explore and take pictures. The genre is futuristic with human and cyborg inhabitants. I was just there for photos, but I was bending the milieu with my pointy ears and hooves, and would have to dress differently to roleplay. If you want more than one visit, get a combat meter and read the rules.)

Jacket: Silentsparrow “(minty) Puca Jacket” (March Mint Madness on Twomoons Island)
Wings: Lazy Places “Elda Wings Mint” (March Mint Madness, not scripted for flying)
Plasma Pistol: Seraphim Systems “The Countess” (combat scripted, includes a large bayonet)
Legs: Visavi “Der’An” (I added some basic black undies)
Ears: MW ilweran “Elf/Faun Ears” (with tinting HUD)
Goggles: Hat Mechanic “Stealth Goggles”
Hair: Clawtooth “Could I Resist?”
Skin: Curio “:GP: Bean [Light] Pout-Whine 2”
Location: Insilico (a group of five sims)

Love,
Serene

STEAMPUNK

2011-03-22T23:07:00.005-06:00

While the charity events have been running, I put some other things on hold. I thought I'd start with some highlights from the Steam Hunt. I just can't pass this one by for its ambiance and originality. This season's hunt was fantastic, as usual. If you haven't visited yet, you really should pencil it into your calendar. It runs through March 30th and is great fun.

First I wanted to show off the Grim Bros. "steam hunt goggles". The package includes both rose and green lenses, but if you would like other colors I believe more shades are available in the store. This picture can't really do them justice, as some of the cogs and parts are animated. Lovely.

The BlakOpal "Tramontane Tophat" is embellished with a large brass compass at front, and the coggy bronze and teal hatband looks like it was made to go with this jacket.

At Hatpins, Reghan Straaf's "R.G.B. Steamer" is scripted to emit red, green or blue steam, using a handy little HUD control system, and includes the matching monocle. Or perhaps it is a technical loupe? You'll have to ask a steampunk scientist.

The "Gents Steampunk Regency Top Hat" from To-a-T might be better sized for a lady, but the craftsmanship is top notch. Mine was not resizable but perhaps that was a system glitch.

And the "Visions of Flight" by the Mad Hattery ... what can I say? It's outrageous but completely in theme. There is a pulsing stream of blue energy that runs around the front of the hat, which is much more striking in person than it can be in this still photograph.

... And so much more. If you love vintage victorian, steampunk, or creative anachronism I can't really recommend this hunt too much. If you are new in Second Life, the journey will also introduce you to many of the finer sims and shops in the genre.

There is an inworld group for the Steam Hunt if you would like help, and you may also visit the official Hunt page at steamthehunt.blogspot.com/, which even has photos of many of the hunt prizes. Have fun!

also worn:
Jacket: silentsparrow "Toxine Suit"
Hair: UncleWeb Studio "Rigel-hair"
Skin: Ricochet "Tristan Dark"
Eyes: MADesigns "EYES_LIGHT – copper"

Love,
Serene

THE LAST DAY

2011-03-22T14:48:00.004-06:00

Today is the last day of Fashion for Life. If you haven't yet been, still have some money left to put in the fabulous gacha machines, or have been trying to decide whether or not to buy that amazing whatever-it-is, now is the time to get over there.

As of earlier this morning, this event had raised more than 4.4 million (!) L$ for cancer research. Do you think we could make it to 5?

Shirt: Vanitas Vesture “Nervous Blouse” (Fashion For Life benefit item)
Shirt: Vanitas Vesture “Languid Party Dress” (a benefit item in a different color)
Skirt: Vanitas Vesture “Meticulous Pencil Skirt” (a benefit item in a different color)
Shoes: Duh! “Floral Linen Flats” (Fashion For Life benefit item)
Hair: booN “AEN105”
Hairbase: Tiny Bird “Blacks Pack Hair Base”
Skin: “:GP: Bean [Light] Pout-Whine 1”
Teeth: PXL “Mouth_open_Addon_v6” (prim teeth!)
Eyelash Alpha: Imabee “System eyelashes – begone!”
Eyelashes: Glow Studio “Innocent. eyelashes – pure”
Eyes: Poetic Color “Night Rain”
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose

Love,
Serene

TAPPED FOR LOVE

2011-03-18T19:08:00.007-06:00

When I say tapped, I am referring to my wallet. This month's money is all gone to good causes. Usually an empty wallet makes me unhappy, but this time I feel at peace, knowing I have done what I can.

This outfit is a combination of lovely garments from Fashion for Life, which benefits the American Cancer Society, and the Pacific Crisis Fundraiser, which donates its funds to Japan through Americares ...

... and this necklace, given freely by Miss Katatonik, who only asks that we do or give something to help, without specifying what channel we should use. Whether you donate to the ACS, Red Cross, Americares, or any one of dozens of organizations who are always there to help, please, please do something. Thank you and I love you!

Sweater: Indi Designs “Cardigan Pink” (Pacific Crisis Fundraiser 100% Donation Item)
Skirt: Vanitas Vesture “Meticulous Pencil Skirt” (at Fashion for Life)
Shoes: Pixel Mode “Baby T” (Fashion for Life Donation Item)
Jewelry: katatOnik “Love Japan Necklace”

Hair: booN “ZGO223”
Skin: Curio “:GP: Moonbeam [Dark] Sweetheart-Rose 1”
Eyebrows: Curio “:GP: Sweetheart Brows-Black”
Eyelash Alpha: Imabee “System Eyelashes – begone!”
Eyelashes: Glow Studio “Innocent.eyelashes – pure”
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose
Photostudio: by N30

Love,
Serene

THE CAPTAIN

2011-03-16T14:30:00.005-06:00

They say that a Captain's Chair can be too much pressure.

But I'm not feeling it. Adrenaline, thrills, pride, yes. Not nerves.

Ready?

Time to leave dock.

June Dion has stitched us yet another fabulous, over the top costume, only this time it is a charity benefit item for Fashion For Life. Enjoy!

Suit: Bare Rose “Earl Midnight RFL” (Fashion For Life benefit item)
Mask: Orchidea “Steampunk Half-Mask” (Steam Hunt prize)
Cane: Oddments “VS SteamHunt4 Walking Stick”(Steam Hunt prize)
Skin: Ricochet “Tristan Dark”
Eyes: Poetic Color “Night Rain”
Location: Armada Breakaway

Love,
Serene

THE VAMPIRE'S HOUSEKEEPER

2011-03-15T04:19:00.010-06:00

There isn't really much to do here. The Count does not collect trinkets.

She sweeps every day and dusts a little. There really is no help for the old bloodstain on the chaise. But if she works slowly, she can seem busy most of the day.

Perhaps she is more decorative than useful, a nod to convention. A rich count is expected to have servants. Why else?

You can find far more than ballgowns at the Fashion For Life charity fundraiser! When I saw this dark and lovely gown, I immediately thought "roleplay". The apron made me think of a housekeeper, but the colors are so goth that I started looking for other accessories that would go with that theme at the other Fashion For Life vendors. The hair is black with blonde tips, but I tinted it bloody red and added the menacing eyes.

Gown: Kouse’s Sanctum “Jocelyn”(includes purple apron)(Fashion For Life benefit item)
Hair: Amacci “Suzy” (tinted)(Fashion For Life benefit item)
Eyes: Fashism “Sunrise Eyes – Gacha Red” (Fashion For Life benefit Gacha)
Clawmarks: Blood and Scars “back scratches”
Featherduster: RC Cluster “Feather Duster (red)” (multicolor pack on SL Marketplace)
Shoes: Duh! “Spring Flats Ink”
Hairbase: booN “gathered lower hairbase”
Skin: Sanu “Gemini Pure Skin” (unavailable)
Eyeshadow: Plastic Flowers “Black Eyeshadow”
Bloody Lips: Glam Affair “Tattoo makeup TDR 13” (unavailable)
Eyelashes: Exodi “Eyelashes”
Alpha: Imabee “System eyelashes – begone!”

Love,
Serene

APROPOS

2011-03-12T19:25:00.008-07:00

This lovely kimono is available for sale this month at the Fashion For Life charity event to raise funds for cancer research. I could make a (long) list for you of all the cancer in my family tree, but my heart isn't in it today ...

Today I am thinking about Japan. In a few days, we will see the good-hearted scraping a few dollars out of their gasoline fund to send there ... I hope you keep doing what you do. Please let's do it together.

For more information about the Fashion For Life charity event, please visit their official site.

Kimono: Falln "Kimono FFLExclusive" (includes shoes)
Skin: Sanu "Gemini Pure Skin" (unavailable)
Eyeshadow: Plastic Flowers "Black Eyeshadow"
Lipstick: Natural Beauty "Lipstick set 8-lipstick 8"
Hair: Exile "Bronwyn"
Eyes: Poetic Color "Night Rain"
Eyelashes: Exodi "Eyelashes"
Alpha: Imabee "System eyelashes - begone!"
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose
Location: Hosoi Ichiba

Love,
Serene

LA ROSE

2011-03-11T03:51:00.008-07:00

The right dress.

Floral and satin, rich colors and textures. An outrageous hat and gloves.

This lovely dark version of the “A Mon Insu” Gown is one of LeeZu Baxter's exclusive benefit items at the Fashion for Life event, which will raise funds for cancer research beginning tomorrow, on 12 March. Of course this black is my favorite ... thank you Ms. Baxter!

Please visit the official Fashion For Life website for more information about this worthy cause!

Gown: LeeZu “A Mon Insu” (Fashion For Life Benefit Gown)
Skin: Curio “:GP: Bean [Light] Pout-Whine 2”
Hair: booN “QPT129”
Eyes: Poetic Color “Night Rain”
Eyelashes: Exodi “Eyelashes”
Alpha: Imabee “System eyelashes – begone!”
Poses: by Dare, Diesel Works, and ImpEle
Photostudio: by N30

Love,
Serene

GEARING UP

2011-03-09T09:50:00.006-07:00

I've been running around on the Steam Hunt, and I thought, heck, why not photo this outfit in the meantime? Yes it's what I'm wearing to hunt. Unless it's like, Skin Fair, I don't take off my wig and shoes. I just trade them in for ones that are reasonably low prim. In honor of the steampunk theme, I put on this pretty little necklace I picked up at Mynerva a while ago.

One of the things I love about the Mynerva skins is their flexibility. These days she is working a kind of a-la-carte system, which includes lipsticks and eyebrows and rouge and freckles. Layer the options you like over a base skin. I had this skin already, and then recently I picked up some more packs of her lipstick at Skin Fair.

Sweater: Mr. Poet “Turtleneck_Sepia” (part of outfit)
Necklace: Mynerva “Victorian Cog Necklace”
Pants: Pink Outfitters “The Editor Pant”
Boots: Lassitude and Ennui “Miss Highlands”
Hair: Maitreya “Natalie”
Skin: Mynerva “Fudge Plain Jane” (wearing the No Brows version)
Eyes: Poetic Color “fairy eyes – witch bright gr” (with gold ring)
Eyelashes: Glow Studio “Innocent.eyelashes – pure”
Eyebrows: Curio “:GP: Sweetheart Brows-Black” (part of skin pack)
Lipstick: Mynerva “Lipstick Style 1-Bronze” (from Skin Fair)
Alpha: Imabee “System eyelashes – begone!”
Poses: by Don’t Freak Out
Photostudio: by N30

Love,
Serene

CABOCHON BRUNETTE

2011-02-27T21:42:00.005-07:00

It starts with a worn and dark fluttery bird texture on my silentsparrow suit. This color of the Corbie Suit was a limited edition but there are several other colors available. I layered in Mr. Poet's shirt because I adore the ruffled collar and pinned the cabochon brooch on my lapel.

I'm not really much for long tails so I exhaled and buttoned on my corset.

Yes these Lassitude and Ennui boots again. They are modifiable, so I was playing around with tint. I love them in two-tone, don't you?

.. And I really wanted to show you the elaborate braiding on this delicious coif. BooN has a growing collection of hair that is intended for wear over a hairbase. I also wanted to mention that they have three sets of hairbases which I love because the hair is pulled back three ways to the crown of the head, the back, and down to the nape of the neck. I wore two hairbases together to get a look that I like.

Jacket: Silentsparrow “(penny) Corbie Jacket”
Shirt with Frilly Collar: Mr. Poet “Pleated Shirt”
Pants: Silentsparrow “(penny) Corbie Suit Pants”
Gloves: Silentsparrow “(penny) Corbie Gloves”
Brooch: Silentsparrow “(penny) Corbie Brooch”
Earrings: Lassitude and Ennui “Oreb” (with texture-change HUD)
Corset: Phoenix Rising “Echo Button Corset” (tinted buttons)
Boots: Lassitude and Ennui “Thecla” (tinted)
Skin: Curio “:GP: Acorn [Light] Sweetheart-Rose 1”
Hair: booN “KED937”
Hairbase 1: Tiny Bird “Blacks Pack Hairbase” (worn underneath)
Hairbase 2: booN “gathered raised hairbase”
Eyelashes: Exodi “Eyelashes”
Alpha Layer: Imabee “System eyelashes – begone!”
Eyebrows: Curio “:GP: Sweetheart Brows-Black”
Eyes: Poetic Color “Night Rain”
Poses: by Animazoo, Snooky’s and Long Awkward Pose
Photostudio: by N30

Love,
Serene

THE ART GEEK

2011-02-18T11:26:00.006-07:00

Earthbound.

But always dreaming of more.

Maybe if I paint it well enough, someone else will catch my dreams.

I wish there was a chair tall enough to lift me into heaven. I don't have wings.

I liked the Kanji Shirt when I saw it in the window, but in the interest of fair disclosure there is a little bit of seam showing at the waist, so I grabbed my Sey hoodie and tied it around my waist to hide that little bitta schmutz. Off I went to the Museum. I haven't been there for a while and there are several new displays. Loved it!

Brush: Sanu “Year of the Rabbit Calligraphy Brush” (Magic of Oz Hunt Prize)
Totebag: Vooner “Marti Bag_art”
Shirt: SE*Designz “Kanji Doublelayer Shirt”
Shorts: Phoenix Rising “Taylor Shorts” (25L at the endless “Closing Sale”)
Tied Hoodie: Sey “maki2 hoodie_v3 [check] 9color” (texture change scripted)
Earrings: Concrete Flowers “Black Flapper Girl”
Scarf: MiaSnow “Flannel Scarf Grey” (OK, so I lied when I said I was giving up grey)
Hat/Hair: CheerNo “hair DUDU” (the Dressing Room)
Eyelashes: Glow Studio “Innocent.eyelashes – pure”
Alpha: Imabee “System Eyelashes – begone!”
Hairbase: booN “gathered raised hairbase pink”
Skin: Curio “:GP: Petal Frex [Light] Sweetheart-Rose 1”
Eyes: Poetic Color “Night Rain”
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose
Location: the Primtings Art Museum

Love,
Serene

ARE WE THERE YET?

2011-02-15T17:15:00.005-07:00

Are we at Spring yet? I am going nuts from cold weather and being cooped up. I am finally hating all the blah blah blah colorless weather so I slammed together some prints and textures and bright colors, and went on the grid looking for something visually exciting.

I am still stuck with sweaters and knits for another month, but no more grey for a while. Not for me !!

Sweater: Ducknipple “Olive”
Leggings: MIU “leggings009 (star navy*green)” (gacha)
Glasses: Miel “Bella Peepers”
Belt: fri.day “Wide Waist.Belt (Teal)”
Boots: FIR & MNA “Wellies SH” (last Seasons Hunt)
Skin: Curio “:GP: Petal [Dark] Sweetheart-Rose 1”
Hair: Dernier Cri “Taylor”
Eyes: Poetic Color “Night Rain”
Eyebrows: Curio “:GP: Sweetheart Brows-Black”
Alpha: Imabee “System eyelashes – begone!”
Poses: by Dismorph and Glitterati
Location: Lunamaruna

Love,
Serene

THE COLOR OF LOVE

2011-02-14T09:22:00.007-07:00

Red? Pink? No and no.

That's right, Chocolate.

I love candy, doesn't everyone?

Happy Valentines Day darlings!

Outfit: Bare Rose “Chocola” (everything including chocolate shoes!)
Earrings: Pididdle “Heavy Sleep”
Alpha: Imabee “System eyelashes – begone!”
Skin: Curio “:GP: Acorn [Dark] Sweetheart – Rose 2”
Brows: Curio “:GP: Sweetheart Brows – black” (tattoo layer)
Eyelashes: Glow Studio “Innocent.eyelashes – pure”
Hairbase: booN “gathered raised hairbase”
Hair: booN “QPT129”
Eyes: Poetic Color “Night Rain”
Poses: by Animazoo and Long Awkward Pose
Photostudio: by N30

Love,
Serene

FLEURS NOIRS

2011-02-09T20:47:00.006-07:00

Je suis arrivé au château dans l'après-midi.

L'architecture était très vieux. L'art et la société ont été avant-gardiste.

Dans le soiree, je me tiens devant des flammes.

Hairpin: bubble “Antibes Hair Pin”
Jewels: Lassitude and Ennui “Bleeding Heart” (with texture change HUD)
Beaded Yoke: Whippet and Buck “Neelia Beaded Yoke Tank”
Dress: Gisaci “Silk Organza”
Leggings: Teefy “Floral Vintage”
Boots: CheerNo “Yaji Snake Black”
Hair: Clawtooth “Could I Resist?”
Skin: Glam Affair “Jadis Natural Dama” (TDR)
Alpha: Imabee “System eyelashes – begone!”
Eyelashes: Glow Studio “Innocent. eyelashes – pure”
Eyeshadow: Natural Beauty “Makeup set 14-makeup 4”
Eyes: Poetic Color “Night Rain”
Poses: Long Awkward Pose
Translator: http://translate.google.com/#enfr

Love,
Serene

BRONZE & TEMPERED STEEL

2011-02-06T21:14:00.011-07:00

I bought this cute little jacket and shorts a while ago from L'Abel and finally found it. (Pfft I should be more prompt.) What I find intriguing about it is the combination of old fashioned with futuristic touches as there are flaring cuffs on the jacket and shorts, and angular shoulder pads. There is also a dramatic upstanding collar but I opted to wear the demure shirt collar instead. I think the Hat and Whip make it look more like a riding outfit.

Perhaps she is a time traveler who forgot to remove her glasses? This careless oversight may disrupt the space-time continuum.

(Mmm ... boots. Thank you for the delicious craftsmanship Ms. Ennui.)

Hat: Curio Obscura “Top Hat” (gift in store includes several colors)
Suit: L’Abel “Valja”
Shirt: Pink Outfitters “Bella Camicetta”
Socks: Tyranny Designs “Grandma’s Crusty Socks” (unavailable)
Boots: Lassitude and Ennui “Thecla”
Whip: Albion Importers “Hunting Whip” (unavailable)
Monocle: LPP “Doll Scouter” (comes with two versions)
Skin: Glam Affair “Eva Skin Winter Makeup 1”
Hair: Maitreya “Zoe”
Hairbase: booN “gathered lower hairbase”
Eyes: Poetic Color “Night Rain”
Alpha Layer: Imabee “System Eyelashes Begone!”
Poses: by Diesel Works and Snooky’s
Photostudio: by N30

Love,
Serene

MENstuff 4 of 4: Details

2011-02-04T12:02:00.005-07:00

I don't usually go for this many piercings but this set was really well made. It's not looking perfect in this photo, but that's because Inotto's shape is freaky and assymetrical. I love the piercings in the bridge of the nose but I think I'll unlink and ditch the nosering ... and oO these eyes are a keeper! Yum.

I have to tell you, what wins me the most to a piece is craftsmanship. If I fall in love with beautiful details, I'm willing to step outside of my usual style to try something different. This vest for example? Its a little more "Southwestern" than my usual, or could be used in a "boho" look which isn't my usual either. But when I tried it on I took a closer look at the notions on this vest and my mouth hung open for a second.

The buttons on the front ...

... and the cinch on the back of the waist. The texture of the vest fabric is realistically puckered as you would expect if it was cinched. Job well done.

Skin: &Bean “Dear John Can of whoop-a**”
Eyes: MADesigns “Eyes_Nature – Nature Run” wow.

Piercings: Razorblade Jacket “Sweet Spiked Face” and “Spiked Ear Piercings”

Vest: Connors “Denim Vest Red” (with sculpted buttons and a buckled cinch in the back)
Shirt: SF Design “Virginian Dress Shirt” (part of outfit, not wearing collar)
Pants: Evoke “Wrecked Jeans”

Love,
Serene

MENstuff 3 of 4: Quirky Everyday

2011-02-04T00:00:00.005-07:00

What's quirky about a sports jersey, you ask? The team I guess ... a guy who wears an obscure team isn't just on the bandwagon. I really wouldn't have wanted a Lakers shirt.

And why a picture of walking a dog? I have no idea.

Hockey Jersey: Violation Inc. “Ovechkin”
Pants: Evoke “Wrecked Jeans”

Shirt: arnadi “Tshirt Let the Dog Out”
Pants: Love-In-Idleness “Rocker Jeans”

Skin: &Bean “Dear John Can of whoop-a**”
Eyes: MADesigns “Eyes_Nature – Nature Run”

Everything shown is from the MENstuff hunt. Before you hunt you might like to peruse the official Landmarks and Hints page and view pics at their Flickr page.

Love,
Serene

MENstuff 2 of 4: Just for Laughs

2011-02-02T21:08:00.006-07:00

It's a pretty sure thing that if something gives me a hard bellylaugh, I tuck it away in my inventory somewhere. I thought this chainmail would fall into the Roleplay category, until I saw the booty shorts. ;P Still, I had fun dressing the outfit up with shiney Helmet and Sword.

Chainmail: Prodigal “Rame Mesh Shirt w/ Chest Sling Gold”
Shorts: Prodigal “Leather Shorts w/Zipper”
Beard: Valiant & Sacred “2.0 Beard V1 – Tintable” (tattoo layer, more colors included)
Harbinger and Stormie “Rarius Fate” Sword (not a hunt gift)
Mysts of Time “Copper Hoplite Commander – Spartan Helm” (not a hunt gift)

Love,
Serene

p.s. I have to put Vitamen's pearl thong into the "Just For Laughs" category, but there was not a chance I was taking a picture of that. ... with my luck, I'd get pubes tangled in between the pearls. Ouch.

MENstuff 1 of 4: Roleplay

2011-02-01T18:46:00.010-07:00

While selecting what to keep from this men's hunt, it suddenly occurred to me that the things that I keep usually fall into one of four categories, which seem to be perfect to talk about in four instalments of bloggity bloggage ... so part one is Roleplay gear.

So check out this military kit. The TShirt shows an old miltary-political propaganda piece, and you can't go wrong with camo and another set of kicks.

I love these, even though they don't meet all the benchmarks I set for my fashion boots. The boot construction is a bit old-school; each is made of two pieces that attach to the foot and the lower leg, istead of one piece with an alpha mask to hide the foot like the newer ones are made. These boots arent made of a zillion prims, with separate parts for each eyelet and section of shoelace. These boots have the shoelaces painted on. They don't change on touch to 15 colors. But if you like to Roleplay in a DCS or CCS sim with dozens of scripted weapons and combat meters, you might want to keep your boots simple. And if you look up close, the textures are beautiful.

Unless you're really new to Second Life, you know that there are roleplay communities for every genre of literature and movies. This one seems more or less old-west but if you lose the hat, remove the arm-bands, and swap out the collar for a frilly cravat, you could repurpose the rest of the outfit easily.

Here's another pair of shoes that is old-school in construction, but you never know when you will need gold-stitched paisley brocade. Right?

Shirt: b[ELLE]issima! “Propaganda Muscle Tee”
Pants: b[ELLE]issima! “Jeans – Cargo Pocket – Camo”
Boots: Deco “Test Boots – Newsprint”

Suit: SF Design “The Virginian”
Shoes: Fear & Clothing “Frankie Shoes – Paisley Gold”

Skin: &Bean “Dear John Can of whoop-a**”
Eyes: MADesigns “Eyes_Nature – Nature Run”

Everything shown is from the MENstuff hunt. Before you hunt you might like to peruse the official Landmarks and Hints page and view pics at their Flickr page.

Love,
Serene

MAIDEN OF THE ELDAR

2011-01-29T22:46:00.004-07:00

Evie’s Closet “Nimrodel Crown and Collar” is available for the Extend a Helping Hand event for Australian Flood Relief. You may purchase it at the EAHH Venue, or the jewels are available in silver and gold at Evie's home at Oubliette.

Also wearing:
Skin: Curio “:GP: Bean [Light] Elf-Snug1”
Hair: Exile “Dina” (at the Dressing Room)
Hairbase: booN “gathered lower hairbase”
Eyes: Poetic Color “summer – lavender fields”
Eyelashes: Exodi “Eyelashes” (basic set included with skin purchases)
Wunderlich’s “Renaissance EverAfter Masquerade Gown” (part of an old favorite)

Love,
Serene

LEGACY

2011-01-28T15:11:00.006-07:00

With the release of Tron Legacy comes a rush of Tron homage ... starting with this premium suit from Graves. I adore it! Up close there are a couple places where the seams are just slightly misaligned, but the texture is gorgeous. (Click on the pic to see it up close. Yum.) If I had one wish, it would be a female-sized collar so my girlie self could easily wear this suit too. Graves does make a female suit, but I'd rather not buy both.

Suited up, I searhed for a Tron-themed sim, and this one is the best I found. The landing point was in a futuristic nightclub. I went outside and spotted a lightcycle racing area, and a small shopping area that sells all things Tron.

[gratuitous butt shot] oo shiny!

Suit: Graves G240 Mainframe
Skin: Ricochet “Tristan Dark”
Eyes: The Plastik “Frozen Soul – Blue”
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose
Location: at Vixens Isle

Love,
Serene

P. M. S.

2011-01-25T16:30:00.007-07:00

edgy bitchy itchy nassty

achy bloaty floppy

moody crampy

ahh ... ibuprofen.

Hat: Warhead “Bitch Inside”
Shirt: Blitzed “Propaganda”
Pants, Chaps, Belt and Bags: Sey “Rider Chaps” (texture change bumbag)
Boots: Edge Grafica “Engineer Boots” (freebie)
Wristcuffs: Blitzed “Legacy Cuffs”
Hairpiece: booN “Yuri15” (made to fit under hats yay!)
Skin: BLU282 “Marilyn” (no longer available)
Facepaint: Visavi “Warpaint/Sacrifice” (tattoo layer)
Eyes: Visavi “Infectious/Cadaver”

Love,
Serene

GRIM

2010-12-30T00:23:00.006-07:00

I'm resisting the urge to quote corny lines from Monty Python.

Or from The Princess Bride?
"I am the Dread Pirate Roberts and I have come for your SOUUUL!" *snort*

I promise my Christmas wasn't grim at all ... but I wanted to show a few of the prizes from the Lost Souls Hunt before it ends on December 31st. This is an almost-free hunt hosted by MadPea Productions. You purchase a HUD for L$100, which gives you landmarks and hints, and permits you to collect the prizes. The hunt begins at the MadPea store at Hoshi Sim. For more information including thumbnails of the prizes, you may visit the official hunt page.

Hood and Top: Rotten Defiance “Grim Reaper” (part of outfit, LSH gift)
Pants and Boots: Returned Karma “Goofer Dust” (part of outfit, LSH gift)
Glasses: Super Possessed “Ghostfinder Specs” (LSH gift)
Collar: MadPea “Silver Bullet Bracelet” (modded into a collar, LSH gift)
Belt: MadPea “Spirit Hunters Belt” (LSH gift)
Skin: Fallen Gods “Supernova Gamma” (also includes a male skin, LSH gift)
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose and Lost Angel Poses
Photostudio: by N30

Love,
Serene

UNDEAD UNDERGROUND

2010-12-11T10:58:00.008-07:00

There isn't much to see down here, in the under-under-basement of Insilico.

But I'm really glad to see you!

This? I'm not sure why someone left paint sitting here.

Featuring mostly finds from the Zombie Popcorn Hunt 3 ... red is a very practical color for a fashion conscious zombette. There's a bit of blood on my shirt but in this dim light you can't even see it.

Shirt: Gawk “Red Cable Knit Hoodie”
Undershirt: Ilaya “123 Shirt”
Pants: paper.doll “Emily Trousers”
Necklace: Rozoregalia “Gemma Necklace 4”
Boots: Adjunct “Slipper Boots Grey”
Belt: Baiastice “Grooving Belt”
Hair: CriCri “gST05- Zombie” (gift also includes a men’s/unisex style)
Hairbase: Tiny Bird “Blacks Pack Hairbase” (NOT a hunt gift)
Skin: Mia Snow “Zombie Popcorn Baby”
Eyes: Repulse “Cannibal Eyes”
Bucket: House of Curios “Bloody Bucket” (NOT a hunt gift)
Poses: by Diesel Works
Location: beneath Insilico

Love,
Serene

THE MECHANIC

2010-11-30T11:54:00.007-07:00

I held on to this Miel dress for a while, because I wasn't sure how I wanted to use it. Finally the other day, I received a group gift from Deco, which included these grungy goggles by Gutterblood Spoonhammer. (Love em! They remind me of Dad's welding goggles.) Before Mr. Spoonhammer started selling wares upstairs at Deco, I used to visit his shop at ROT dev (gone dammit). The rough goggles inspired me to grunge up the Miel dress. I toughened her look combining the booN topknot with a buzzcut hairbase, and the gauged and pierced ears. The gauges are actually timepieces. I love that kind of details!

In case you still had any doubts whether this chick is someone you want to mess with, she is sporting a garter with a rusty old pistol tucked in.

Dress: Miel “Raider Dress” (group gift in several lovely colors)
Undershirt: Pieces from the Pink Outfitters “Rocket Girl Jacket” (VERY modified collar)
Leggings: Ducknipple “Zwaffel 03: Majo (black)”
Goggles: Decompose “Roughneck Goggles – red” (from Deco group gift)
Garter: LouLou & Co. “Garter Pistolero”
Arm warmers: DeLa “Arm warmers Black” (old gift) … I tinted the metal studs
Leg warmers: DeLa “Leg warmers Black” (old gift)
Shoes: Gos “Docs 8 Hole” (with optional old finish)
Hairpiece: booN “MKT012” (love love love!)
Tattoo with Hairbase: Aitui “Biomech Web w/Hair Base” (old gift)
Skin: dekade “Claire”
Ears: Mynerva “Chrono-plug II Elven Ears”
Eyes: Poetic Color “Night Rain”
Poses: by Long Awkward Pose
Photostudio: by N30

Love,
Serene