Christmas Greetings from MODA

At this time of year, you see the theme of birth everywhere. It reminds me of a maternity class just before the birth of our first child with midwives Jane Kilthei and Larry Lenske. Back then Larry was the only male midwife in the province of Ontario. He took the lead in this particular class and talked to the expectant mothers about how to breathe during labor. During the break I took him aside and, being the skeptical person I am, asked him what possible effect a woman's breathing could have on the birth.

"You're right," he answered. "Giving birth is primarily an involuntary process. The baby is going to come regardless of how you breathe. But if the mother feels overwhelmed and out of control, she could panic. Her breathing is something she can focus on and control. " So focusing on breathing is a way to help you deal with the larger experience of giving birth.

I will never experience giving birth, but I do know what it feels like to be overwhelmed and out of control in life. For me Second Life is a little like learning to control my breathing. In Second Life you don't have to hold down a job, lose forty pounds, raise a teenager or even eat. You control what you are and what you want to be. Second Life gives you a chance to discover or re-discover who you really are. Then you can take the lessons learned back to your first life.

As a consultant doing a lot of traveling this year, I was feeling pretty isolated. Working with Jujudoll Dancer and the MODA Modeling School reminded me how much fun life can be, particularly when you're part of an enthusiastic team, all pulling together. I know from how I feel and the comments from my "real" friends that Second Life has improved my first life. For me there is nothing lonlier than a solitary restaurant meal on the road. Thank you to all my fashion friends in SL for being with me wherever and whenever I traveled. As a special friend says, "Sometimes my goal in life is just to keep breathing."

Merry Christmas to you and all the best in 2008. You deserve it.

MODA Achievement Award

Last night the MODA Modeling School was given an Outstanding Achievement award by the Second Life Cable Network.

In the words of Executive Producer Starr Sonic, "Every producer wants their show to look good. But, when your subject matter is fashion, looking good is everything. Jujudoll and Licentious at MODA didn't stop there. Not only does their show look great, but their tireless commitment to rehearsals, scripts, and timing have created an impressive 30 minute show that runs like clockwork. I'd like to proudly present the extraordinary achievement award for design and choreography to MODA Fashion Spotlight."

This is one award that was truly won by the team. The only way to keep an event going week in week out is to have a cohesive and spirited team. While individuals shine, it takes a group to keep up the commitment. I would like to thank

• Makeda Cole and Angela Watkin for coaching the models and keeping an eye on timing,
  
• KandieKane Laval for handling the wardrobe,
  
• Calveen Kline for his technical advice as well as his building skills, and
  
• ColoradoCowboy Manen for the announcing, the music and wrapping his mouth around those eclectic fashion names.

And a special thank you to those who turned a narrow catwalk into a runway with your energy, style and commitment to excellence.

Knockout! K.O. Designs

And the unanimous winner is: Ms Kallyfaith Rolland, Owner and Designer of K. O. Designs Costume Superstore.

On December 17, the MODA Fashion Spotlight featured handpicked creations selected by Ms. Rolland herself. She was sitting in the audience brimming with pride as the MODA models walked graciously down the runway. I had the pleasure of chatting with her during this wonderful evening of fashion.

Kallyfaith Rolland joined this virtual world in October of 2005, way before the days of the flexiprim clothing. Kally shared with me that in the real world, she has always been an artistic soul but never on a professional level just as a hobbyist. Exploring Second Life, she discovered some amazing designs and decided that she wanted to try her hand at fashion designing. Over time, she had the unique opportunity to design for Playboy Island which helped her refine her skills as a creator. A few months later, she opened her own store where she focused her creativity on costumes, such as the Scarlett BBQ Gown, shown below. Who wouldn't feel like Scarlett O'Hara dressed in this gown!

Having completed over fifty costumes over time, Kallyfaith has found a new passion designing vintage style clothing. She remarked: "I find myself sketching in my sketchpad endlessly just coming up with new ideas." Shown below is the Vintage Elana in the shorter version, a long gown is also available.

The last set of designs was called Enchantment. An amazing collection of fourteen (14) individual pieces to match any and all of your moods - from the long skirt to the short and sexy skirt, from the capris to the little shorts. It also includes a large number of accessories such as shoes, gloves, and two hats (one of them is a very cute top hat). I'm not a smoker but for the fashionable lady, there is also a classy cigarette holder. This stunning limited edition ensemble will only be available until January 6th, 2008 at K.O. Designs main store on Columbia. Did you know it took over a week of effort for Kallyfaith to create all these original pieces?

Before Kallyfaith joined the MODA crew to celebrate another successful event, I asked her if she had any advice for up and coming designers. "Don't be afraid to try. Learning programs like Photoshop or GIMP can be intimidating and I have had lots of friends try and try and just give up because it's too frustrating for them at first. Don't push yourself too hard and just have fun with it."

K.O. Designs is located on Columbia(8,16,22). I have personally returned to the store for a few visits since the MODA Spotlight Fashion Event.

Ciao Bellissima!

A few weeks back we did a spotlight on Bellissima. I know you make it to all our shows.....but just in case you missed it, here is the link to the SLCN TV segment. I had the honor and pleasure of producing the script for that segment. It was really fun spending a few hours staring at Elle74 Zaftig's designs to prepare the script.

Although Bellissima specializes in custom wedding gowns and period costumes, you will find her store chock full of amazingly textured outfits for men and women. Elle started designing in SL because she couldn't find dresses "that covered the ass" of the full-figured woman "without fiddling around with prims".

She was once commissioned to design a whole wedding party's outfit. She designed the groom's Prince of Wales kilt and sporran outfit (a request from the bride in honor of her father). Elle painstakingly researched kilts and Scottish clans resulting in an incredibly detailed and extraordinary outfit.


This versatile designer has been in SL since April 2005 and opened her store in December 05. She says she is inspired by romance and old movies, and describes her style as classical, from a time when "women were decked to extremes" and "when you dressed for dinner". You can definitely see elements of her inspiration in the dresses being shown below. The first is Vintage in Emerald (above). A dress that would not look out of place on Tara (as in Gone with the Wind)



The second dress (shown above) is called Appasionata and is being modeled by the beautiful Angela Watkins, MODA Partner. This is not a dress for the faint-hearted or the skinny. You clearly need the body....and bosoms to carry off this outfit! As shape in SL becomes more normalized, designers like Elle74 are guaranting you will find outfits that fit the woman ......of substance.

Just In: 17th Dec 2007 is Bellissima's Rezzday. So Elle will be having a little party to celebrate - Digby Smalls will be coming out to sing between 7 and 8 PM SLT. You are all invited! There'll also be free stuff at the store from about 12 Noon SLT. So head on over....make sure you take a look at the kilts!

Watch out for a new firebird in the SL jungle: Aunna Anatine is on the loose! This latest addition to the MODA Modeling School is one to be watched.

Welcome to the Jungle! Featured is designer Janie Marlowe's Safari from Mischief & Mischief Male. I absolutely love this outfit for its dichotomy! The theme is wild but the execution is of the utmost poise and sophistication. Pockets, collar, and cuffs of this well tailored pantsuit are accented with wild animal print, wild hair from Analog Dog complimenting this theme. Stylish PrimOptic glasses and Earthtones jewelry accentuate sophistication while Solace Black shoes from Maitreya add a finishing touch. Perfect opposites come together in this ensemble to create a fantastic, unique look!

Accessories:
Skin - Zoe Chocolate(Copper) / Naughty
Hair - Amber Brunette / Analog Dog
Shoes - Solace Black / Maitreya
Glasses - arkos / primOptic
Jewelry - Cluster N&E Set (Sienna/Silver) / Earthtones

DD Designs

Please help me welcome our newest MODA student blogger, Daryion Reinard. She's a fun loving, fashion fixated model who just loves what she does.

DD Designs can be found in Nuem and I'll add the Landmark for you at the end of the blog. But be warned, the store is HUGE and with so many beautiful designs to choose from, you're going to want to spend! It's a good thing that DD's is so affordable. You'll love it. Each time I go there, there is something new on the walls. You'll also find many smaller DD boutiques scattered over SL.

You don't need a lot of accessories to complement this stand-alone outfit. I chose to wear a lovely Diamond Necklace by Alyssa Bijoux. I found Alyssa's store by accident and I'm so glad I did. There are so many designs to choose from for both men and women as well as a large range of custom jewelry. Just IM Alyssa and she can make it up. What great service! I chose for this outfit a necklace and earring set called 'Falling Star'. Drop, diamond earrings and a lovely silver chain that drops delicate diamond stars. Its another favourite in my collection. It works perfectly with the star theme in the lace top. You can find Alyssa's store in Kirkstone.

Shoes make the outfit, so they say, and I'm sure they're right. The shoe choice for this look is Valentina's, with classy little white points and a small heel. Valentina was a very sassy German designer, who has unfortunatly left SL but thanks to new owner, Henning Tammis, her wonderful style is still available. Her main store at Tarnotopia is to die for. Grab the Landmark and see for yourself.

Finally, my hair. I'm an easy going girl and I love my hairstyle to reflect that. This style is long, blonde and very stylish. But, teamed with jeans and a t-shirt, it can also look sweet and playful. I love how it falls and how it moves with me so naturally. I found it at Hair Solutions, where you can demo many different styles and colours. It's one of the best flexi designs I've found so far and one style that brings me so many comments, even from men. My style is "India II." The highlights look so natural. It comes with full instructions and a posing stand.

That completes my look. I hope you'll love it as much as I do.

*DD* Designs Main-Kids and Baby , Neum (54, 66, 23)

Valentina's Main Shop for Shoes, Tarnotopia (54, 74, 26)

ALYSSA BIJOUX JEWELRY - Hair, B, Kirkstone (63, 231, 36)

Hair Solutions@El, Elite Island (84, 65, 21)

Extra! Extra! Newspaper Girl Look is IN

This review comes from a recent MODA student, the charming Gamp Lane. Her name soooo makes me want to sing, "She was a vamp, a scamp and a bit of a tramp. She was a G-A-M-P, Gamp!"

This is a little number that Callie Cline likes to call the "Newspaper Girl". I never had my newspaper delivered by anyone in an outfit this classy and sassy. It is from her mix-n-mash up collection. It features an adorable above the knee black and white plaid skirt, which looks good even sitting in SL. The basic black turtleneck sweater is a hard working piece that will play a supporting role next to just about anything you care to pair it with. To top it all off (literally) there is a cute little animal print beret and matching wide band belt. Animal print with checks you ask? Get that skeptical tone out of your voice. Not your usual combination maybe, but that's just what mix-n-mash up is all about..and it works! Kudos to Callie for this one.

caLLiefornia (222, 203, 22)

To get the look that gets the looks:
HAIR: AVEDA - Long Wavy in Champagne
SHOES: Sweet as Sin in Black by Minx.
HOSE: Blaze Charcoal hose
SKIN: ::tuli:: 53 light tone//black brows - sunset

Look what I found!

Kallyfaith Rolland, of KO Designs is turning over a new leaf and showing her true style with some really stunning new work. Yes, I have seen a good many of her new items I just can’t seem to get enough of them.

This dress ensemble is Enchantment. There are 3 primary outfits, each good for a new kind of mood. I’m partial to the short skirt myself. That’s because I like Attitude. It’s sexy, sassy with lots of class, and its feminine, kinda girly like me. Check out the prim tulle bow in the back.

You can find this entire 14-piece set at http://shop.onrez.com/item/430435 for only $800L. If you think it looks good on me, the price is right. You should see what Enchanted does for your style.

P.S. – KO Designs will be showing everything new at our MODA Fashion Spotlight Event on Monday December 17th You can see it filmed live at www.slcn.tv or at one of our remote Television Cinema locations in Second Life.

So You Want to be a Designer

It's an oldie but a goodie! If you're looking for a good start to creating your own fashions, start with the tutorials in the Mermaid Diaries. You will find everything there from how to build, to how to work with textures, to dealing with the dreaded Alpha Channel.

Gentle reader, if you know of any other good sources of useful information, please add your comment!

Fashioning Your Shadow

"It's the hidden, less-examined, and less developed part of us that we don't want to admit is there, within us"

is Linda Seger's definition for the Shadow in her book Making a Good Writer Great. Being a writer, she recommends that you connect with your Shadow through writing.

But I have a better way, and if you're reading this blog you probably do too: Second Life. Is there a side of you that has to live in your public shadow? Have you had to be the "good girl", the "responsible one", the "disciplinarian" or the "giver" all your life? Is there a part of you that NEEDS expression? As Seger goes on to say,

"Not all of the qualities are fundamentally negative. . . . Many people would consider spontaneity and impulsiveness just as important as being responsible and disciplined."

My job is filled with rules. There are rules regarding the data I transfer from one system to another, the way transactions are handled, the computer users who are allowed to use them, and the way the transactions are summarized and presented to the public. My approach to implementing a system is governed by another set of rules as is the whole profession to which I belong. There are times when I just want to shout, "no more rules!"

So, when I created the character Licentious, I decided he would not be governed by rules. He could be irresponsible if he chose. He could bend, fold, mutilate and spindle the rules if he wanted to. What did it turn out that he wanted most to do? He wanted to write. He wanted to be spontaneous and try something he'd never done before. Funny thing: I came to like and admire my Shadow.

How do you feel about yours? As the old time radio show goes: "Only the Shadow knows for sure."

Future Spotlights

Monday means MODA! Set your dial to the Second Life Cable Network at 7pm sl time and relax! We'll inform and entertain you with the latest fashions. Coming up are three top Second Life designers:

11/26 - Bossa Nova
12/3 - Adam n Eve
12/10 - AlchemyAngels

Bossa Nova – “Blame it on the Bossa Nova, the dance of love,” says the old song and these outfits will show you why. Tailored, romantic and charming, they have beautiful detail and a luxurious feel, just perfect for you and your latin lover.

Adam n Eve - While sachi Vixen is known for her skins, she also has accessories, casual wear, costumes, evening gowns, hair, lingerie, shoes, silks and men's formal wear. She is one busy designer!

Alchemy Angels - Alchemy produces beautiful gowns and evening wear, with flirty, girly layers of white peeking out from under the skirt. Constanza Volare is definitely influenced by her Chilean ancestry and she is not afraid of vibrant color, as you will notice when you visit her store on the Emilia sim.

Spotlight on Shakture

It was a fun show! The MODA models were wearing Shakture elegance! Check it out on the Second Life Cable Network (www.slcn.tv) or see the slideshow on the MODA blog!

A Rainey Day

What better thing to do on a rainy day than go shopping? Rainey Paderborn is a MODA student, who has definitely found her groove. I will never look at Burberry the same way again!

When you have all the Lindens in the world, looking good is easy. The real challenge is not only looking good, but fabulous on a budget!

I put together the following look and have gotten so many compliments and inquiries about it, that I want to share it with you, dear friend and reader. It's one that will take you from business to the club, so you can be out all day without having to change. Although in Second Life changing and freshening up is never the problem it is irl!

The foundation of the outfit is LuhNee Hyun's Burberry dress by Infinite 8, available at SL Exchange for L$49.00! The shape is slimming and flattering and the Burberry Check is instantly recognizable and to die for! It comes with glitch pants and a system skirt so you may want to use poses which won't stretch the material too far! And despite the slimming effect, every woman in SL knows how system skirts make our butts look, so you may want to mod your shape a bit for this…

Since the weather is turning a little cooler (ok, it really isn't but any excuse to accessorize!) I paired Kat Palmer's *IMT* Elizabeth Shrug - Burnt Orange with the dress. There's a very delicate and subtle texture used, as well as flexi prim cuffs. At L$ 60.00 from SL Ex, not only is it a steal, when you consider that you have a to die for look already for L$109.00 it doesn't get better than that!

Matching handbag and shoes were a must for me, and yes, SL Ex continued to provide! Eme Buchanan's JDC - Handbag - Cream Tartan Purse w/ bling, is totally darling and comes with anims and a voice command for bling on and off. Compared to the outfit so far it's more expensive at L$125.00, but we've saved so much money by shopping smart that this little indulgence can be justified!

Good shoes are always key and Tesla Miles has created absolutely must have Sculpted Prim Burberry Super Heels. Coming yet again from SL Ex at L$200.00, the sculptie shoes have a total of 3 prims and the heels are extra high to provide definition to the calves.

So now you have a wonderfully classy outfit, shopped from the comfort of wherever you want to be without flitting from place to place in-world and dealing with lag or failed tp's. You've also done it for less than L$500.00!

To quote the makeover show….how do I look?

I put the outfit together because I heard that the new Gossip Girl sim was a faithful recreation of Manhattan's Upper East Side and I couldn't resist a photo op outside Helen Bernel !

I hope you had as much fun with this as I did, dear friend and reader.
Take care and stay safe, sweetie <3

Details:

Shape: Model's own. I am a professional shape crafter, co owner of To Die For! specializing in high end shapes and custom AV consultation
Skin: Sonia-tan-night by INSOLENCE
Hair: Armidi Hair - The Milano - Blonde
Eyes: Radiant Green lenses by Joannah Cramer
Jewelry: MQ - Chinese Inlaid Jade - White Jade "Love" Set (SLX) by Mezzanine Qi
Nails: FGXN000u(natural gloss) by Second Skin Labs

What's the Story With SL Fashion Anyway?

To some, SL is just a game, a 3-D chat. If you believe the papers, SL Fashion is about making enough Lindens designing or modeling that you can quit your rl job. Some people view it as The Devil Wears Prada in a virtual world. If that were true I wouldn't be here.

The stories that I hear at MODA don't make the news. They are about people starting to feel good about themselves, about solitary people who find friendship, shy people who discover their voice and timid people gaining self confidence. For me, the MODA Modeling School offered a chance to stretch my wings and see if I could accomplish something I had never done: apply my creativity. In real life, I'm a consultant. I work with computer systems, with companies that grow and those that struggle. My job is analytical and very concrete, but I have always wondered what it would be like to be a Creative. Thanks to Jujudoll Dancer and the MODA team, I got my chance to be part of a collaborative group where everyone has a say and the only limits are what we can imagine together.

The stories of the other models at MODA are like mine. One is a consultant living in hotels, happy that she can visit her friends no matter what city she happens to be in. Another is a single mom, who has found a way to have some grown up fun while still looking after her baby at night.

MODA has not just changed my life for the better. It has helped me appreciate real fashion. OK, I have to tell you this story. My family went to an outdoor Shakespeare play in the park last September. Next to me were two women. The first one was sewing something from stuffed socks. I asked her, "Are you making one of those monkeys? I haven't seen one in ages." She said that any that I'd seen were probably hers because she couldn't keep up with the demand from people wanting to buy them. I said, "You should make a grunge monkey, you know, all in black, with piercings." The second woman chimed in with, "Or a designer monkey" and I said, "Yeah, like a Juicy Couture monkey." The woman stopped and just looked at me, "How do you know about Juicy Couture?" She turned to my teenaged daughter, "Do you wear Juicy Couture?" My daughter shook her head. She said to me, "My father would never have known about Juicy Couture. What do you do, watch all the fashion shows?" I replied, "Would you believe that in another life, I'm a fashion model?" She shook her head, "A photographer maybe."

The papers have it all wrong.

TONIGHT - Diva Style Event

KaindieKain Laval, the Miss Diva Style winner, invites you to an evening of wild animal prints, flowing gowns and exotic outfits. It's a fashion show of Diva Style on the runway at Fashion (195,45,37), a MODA production at 6 pm sl time.

Diva Style is the label of choice for the woman who likes to go out. From formal gowns to funky casual, Diva Style gives you the right look for any occasion. Party on!

Come on down and meet the models and enjoy the atmosphere!

A MODA Production.

Exclusive Offer for New Designers

Are you an edgy, creative fashion designer whose work has never been exhibited in a fashion show? The MODA Modeling School is planning a themed showcase featuring new designers. As a school, our goal is to further the fashion industry and help new designers get noticed and learn the ropes. You will have access to our experienced models and runway coaches as we work with you to put your best foot forward.

We do not demand exclusive contracts from our designers. You are free to take what you learn from working with us to any agency or promoter. We guarantee a positive, consultative and co-operative atmosphere with mutual respect and learning. We are in this business for fun and creativity, not to make money.

We do reserve the right to limit the number of designers and the number of outfits from each one. This is an offer for serious designers who are as committed to the fashion world as we are only. Interested? Please contact Bayley Boucher, one of our Showcase Managers, or myself.

Last Call

RedDawn speaks for all of us at MODA on this sad occasion:

To the friends and family of Ginny Talamasca, I send my heartfelt sympathies and condolences. I can't imagine the pain and grief you are dealing with given the loss of someone so beautiful and special. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

I only knew Ginny from his work and the occasional passing conversation, but was always surprised that someone with such talent and large presence in SL was so approachable, helpful, and joyful. He will be sorely missed, but his works and spirit will remain with us all.

<3 <3 RedDawn Bade

Nyte N Day - It's a cinch!

Aunna Anatine is one of the newest additions to the MODA Modeling School. Here is her first contribution to our fashion reviews.

Looking for sexy, smart, sophisticated fashions? Nyte 'N' Day, seller of clothes, skins, and more is calling for you! One of my favorite outfits by designer Nyte Caligari is Contrive (pictured here). This shirt/jacket/pant set is available in both black and brown. The well tailored top jacket is cinched elegantly at the waist, accentuated with buttoned waistband. A lace bordered knit undershirt fits snugly underneath. White pinstripe pants (tinted black here) complete the outfit. The clean lines and fit of the ensemble create a classy, head-turning, sharp look compliments of a brilliant design!

Accessories
Skin: Naughty Island/ Zoe - Copper
Hair: ETD/ Katie - Chestnut
Shoes: enkythings/ Bonita - Black

Summer Deadlight

A thousand apologies to Summer Deadlight who was not credited for the delightful photographs of our October Fashion Showcase that she took. She did wonderful work in quite laggy conditions, which can be particularly trying when you are downloading large HD bitmap files and trying not to crash yourself.

Thank you for your artistry and technical knowhow, Summer!

Spotlight on Diva Style

Yesterday on the Second Life Cable Network, the MODA Modeling School presented a spotlight on Diva Style. Filled with outfits ranging from smart casual to dressy, this was a show not to be missed. Good thing it's still available at http://slcn.tv along with the other MODA Spotlights.

Satin Allure

This is Pansy Peccable's first post as a MODA Modeling School student. I'm sure it won't be her last! -ed.

I am delighted to have become a student at the MODA Modeling School in Second Life. After only one class, I can say that I am both impressed and challenged by the intensity of the program. But then, I expect the very same of the profession of modeling itself.

Lydia Sands, owner of Boutique Lovely, actually gave me my start into this adventure. Having considered me pretty enough to shoot for some of her ads, I've learned quite a lot already, not the least of which is how much work modeling really is. Yes, it is fun, but a lot more goes into it than I could have fathomed.

I'll never forget my first real photo shoot with Lydia. I had put on my prettiest, newest hair and shape, of course, but as we got started Lydia told me to change it. When I asked if she didn't think it was pretty she replied, "We're here to sell lingerie, not your pretty hair!" I could only laugh, and yes, I totally got that.

I still have much to learn, thus my enrollment in MODA. But I am quite serious and dedicated to fully exploring this world of SL modeling, helping to sell my employer's fashions, and having as much fun as possible along the way.

(Photo provided with permission of Lydia Sands - model Pansy Peccable)

The "Satin Allure" lingerie set featured in the photo has a beautiful floral lace contrasted against a rich black satin texture. Very sexy set, containing bra, panties and thong. It's also available in an extended set with flexi cami and stockings.

MODA Style Video

Featuring the fashions of Fido, Sh*t Happens, Bossa Nova and Diva Style, the new MODA Modeling School video has hit the streets. You will find it at http://blip.tv/file/458587. It is also available on YouTube. Additional credits: Crucial Creations and Pretty Magic - thank you for your amazing outfits.

If you've ever wondered what it's like to be a fashion model, join our professionally trained staff and our wonderful team. We welcome men and women at all levels of Second Life proficiency. We will show you how to work your camera to create your own stunning portfolio. Every student who completes the course gets to model.

For more information, visit our blog at http://MODAFashionSL.blogspot.com

BBBM - Its Bloody Ironic

Technically, I have not been stalking Big Booty, Big Money owner and designer, Evelyn Edelman.

OK, I have spent alot of time in her store and I do have every design she has ever released. So it was only fitting that on yet another visit to the store, Evelyn was there and agreed to answer some of my inane questions.

Evelyn started BBBM around March this year. She says she likes to "juxtapose the ugly with the lovely" in her designs. I would argue that her designs are more lovely than ugly.

Take a look at the recently released Bloodyseeker dress (which by the way also comes in the non-bloody version). As you are led away (admittedly in handcuffs), with the evidence of your crime all over your dress, at least you can be assured that you do so looking absolutely fabulous!

What I love about BBBM is that the designs are imaginative, edgy and not your run of the mill. If you are into following babydoll trends then I can safely say that these outfits are probably not for you. If you are about smart, creative and unusual designs then head to BBBM.

According to Evelyn "Its all about irony". Seriously. More importantly, her designs are very affordable ranging from L$50 to L$150 for an outfit.

Details: Skin: TaP Vivant Chestnut Kyoko 1; BBM Dresses: Top Pic = Bloodseeker Dress; Bottom Left to Right Pics: Zygote Tiger Dress, Dark Glass Dress, Dormant Dress, Adouccisement Dress; Shoes: BF MaryJane Flats

MODA October Showcase

The MODA October Spotlight included some incredible outfits by Annie's Costumes, Pretty Magic, Crucial Creations and Pizazz! This slideshow only gives you a feel for the excitement in the air. Come to next month's show. Details in the MODA blog.

Find the Cure Fundraiser - 28 OCTOBER

THIS SUNDAY
The Pink Winged Warriors present a fundraiser to benefit the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation.

12 Noon SLT Think Pink Fashion Show
Hosted by SLCN.TV personality of "Thats S'Life" Duckyfresh Watanabe

1 - 3 PM SLT Live Auction
Guest DJ for the auction will be SLCN.TV personality Duckyfresh Watanabe

4 - 5 PM SLT Live Concerts:
ezcape Hax 4 SL pop, rock, a little r&b and country

SpaceJunky 5 SL "live band members roleplaying a concert performance to their CD"

The dress code for this event will be THINK PINK. Wear something pink or go all pink if you wish. This is NOT a formal event. Dressing casual will help reduce the lag.

If you have any questions please contact Akasha Divisadero . For further information on the Komen Foundation please visit http://www.komen.org

Mel Tells . . .

Mel Fitzcarraldo is a welcome addition to the MODA team. Not only does he have a well developed . . . er . . . sense of humor, but he also is a fine modeling student.

Well, since Licentious begg...er, I mean plead...er I mean asked if I would do some reviews here, here is my premier post for the MODA fashion blog! (Actually it's an honor to be included among such talented people in the SL fashion industry!) Earlier I posted here about my excursion today to Aitui when I got the notice they were having a huge sale on older tattoos that are going to be replaced next month with their new line. So, ok, yes I did look around at their other offerings, I mean, why not while you're there? And yes, I did manage to pick up a few other things besides tattoos while I was there. For instance, take a look at these thermal shirts. It's getting a bit nippy outside when I leave for work in the morning, even here in the South where I live. Shirts like these would be great to keep me warm, comfortable and looking good, too bad there's a dress code.

The Service Thermal (black) sports a unique, futuristic symbol on the chest.

The Somewhere Thermal (rust) has what looks to almost be a bloodstain across the abdomen and an interlocking circle design on the right pectoral.

The Grey Striped Thermal has dusky, faded grey stripes, looking like you're ready to board a tramp steamer or head off on a fishing trauler.


All of the thermals have the corregated thick cloth texture that just makes you feel warm. The niftiest feature is the sleeve extension that looks like you've been pulling down your sleeves to open the car door on those cold mornings.

The thermals are jacket-layer only and the sleeve extensions are on the glove layer.
Make sure to get by Aitui soon before the discontinued tattoos are gone for good, and have a look around while you're there.

Gimme a head with hair....

...Gimme long beautiful hair. Shining,

gleaming, steaming, flaxen, waxen....

....I want it long, straight,

curly, fuzzy, snaggy, shaggy,

ratty, matty, oily, greasy,

fleecy, shining, gleaming, steaming,

flaxen, waxen, knotted, polka-dotted;

Twisted, beaded, braided Powdered,

flowered, and confettied.

Bangled, tangled, spangled

and spaghettied! ....

(Lyrics from "Hair")

______________

Our avatars are like dolls and we love to dress them and wear fabulous hairstyles. Luckily, unlike my dolls I don't ruin SL hair to the point it looks like I mopped the floor with it. We are always in search of hair for the casual look, punk style, neko, or the updo for the lovely evening gown. But which hair is our favorite, the hair we can't part with even if it is from last year. The one hair you can't let go of is the style that speaks of you; screams YOU. I love hair that is sassy, ethnic, has a soft flow and fits my own personality. I remember the names of my favorites but for the life of me can't remember the others and will spend hours trying them on til I find the one I need. Only to pull out that old reliable that is like wash 'n wear and can go anywhere. I want to share with you some of my favorites and why.

Top row:
Left: Dark Seduction from Ellana. You can feel the breeze thru this hair when walking. Imagine jogging and that full ponytail sways with you. That is what Dark Seduction does. It looks great in those jogging outfits or clubwear.
Right: Nash’s Natty Dreads from Destroy, Inc. I am happy to be nappy and love this look. Thank yu Jill Scott, Angie Stone, and Ericka Badu this hair shouts "I am Woman --Phenomenal. Destroy, Inc. has dreads for men and women. If you have a bit of Rasta in you, you will like this place.

Second row:
Left: BooPerFunk BigHuge Dreads from BooPerfunk. BooPerFunk is funk at its best featuring Afro/Caribbean hairstyles and more. Get your funk on and strut your stuff.
Right: Afro from Mau & Mej. Mau & Mej was suggested to me by a friend and I am happy I went. This afro frames the face beautifully and has a nice flex. I plan to go back to get some of the stunning asian styles.

Bottom row
Left: Shakira from BishWear. What can I say about Shakira other than its big hair, rock style and sexy. Shakira especially looks hawt in clubwear or that outfit you want to be sophisticated but the hair speaks a little bit of the wild side.

Right: Rona Dread Ponytail from Skybox. This style comes with color change which makes it fun to wear and looks great with most any style clothing. I wear it when I want to have style with attitude and personality.

Well, there it is... My hair affair! Would love to here from others about great hair finds.

SLCN MODA Spotlight on Fido

The MODA Spotlight shows on the Second Life Cable Network are back! See them live on Mondays at 7 pm sl time or catch them anytime on their web site.

October Showcase

THIS THURSDAY

Miss Direction: the MODA October Fashion Showcase is at 6:00 pm sl time on October 25 at Fashion (183, 49, 37). Come and watch as the experienced MODA models join the graduates, with our guest host, Coloradocowboy Manen. ColoradoCowboy Manen, a DJ usually known for his smooth voice and country and western music, but with a hidden talent for high energy fashion shows, will be providing the music and commentary for the show. Date: October 25 - 6 pm - 8 pm

Confirmed designers include:

Annie’s Costumes - This RL costume designer has brought all of their creative experience to give you the full Hallowe’en treatment. From sexy to scary, Annie’s has the full line to make your avatar the hit of the party. Every day is Hallowe’en at Annie’s. http://extremehalloween.blogspot.com

Pretty Magic – Just in time for Hallowe’en, Mona Howitt brings you the finest in Hogwarts fashion.She is a Second Life fashion designer and Hogwarts student. Her products extend from medieval clothes, gowns, cloaks over accessories like hats and glasses ("Pretty MAGIC") to modern pyjamas and sleepwear ("Finally") and are sold at Winterfell, Wizard's Alley and Pando. http://prettymagic.blogspot.com/

Crucial Creations -Crucial Armitage has designed detailed jeans, leather pants, metal and mesh outfits, chaps and boots for everyone. Men will love standing out in Crucial’s Casual Male line that includes finely textured shirts and striking outfits. Women will feel confident and alluring in Crucial’s sexy leather and lace outfits, various skirts, bikinis, and blouses for all occasions. Crucial also has a wide variety of shoes and boots in all styles and colors. http://www.crucialcreationsinsl.com/fashion/

Pizazz! – Lynuor Richelieu has just burst on the Second Life scene. After spending years as a real life costume designer, she has unleashed her new fashion line for men and women at LeftBank Studios (116,95,40). Filled with youthful elegance, these clothes are sure to please.

Everyone welcome!

New Faces at FACES

Congratulations to Yumi Darkes and Makeda Cole, two of the MODA models who were chosen in the Faces modeling contest. Pictured at right is Makeda with moi in an unposed snap, while underneath is Yumi.

Both of these talented models have spent countless hours upgrading their default avatar, clothing and accessory settings to create their own distinctive look. Remember, if you leave it the way you bought it, then you will look like everyone else who chose to purchase the same item. MODA training teaches you how to take what you buy and make it yours!

FACES is about showcasing the undeniable beauty of individuals in the Second Life community by providing:

* A Modeling Agency with experienced and professional models, as well as Runway Show Planning, Coordinating and Hosting
* Image Consulting Services to help take your style to the next level
* Fashion Blog for the latest releases, reviews, and suggestions on inventory coordination
* Monthly Fashion Magazine spotlighting the fashion industry

The FACES agency will share space on the newly opened Glam.

Good luck guys!