Simone Vintage Bunny Girl
This adorable little costume just made me very, very hoppy…errrm..happy. Modeled by my amiable (and clearly slightly tarty) assistant, Mhairi Hastings, is Vintage Bunny Girl by the venerable and talented Simone. This costume was picked up at the 200L sale along with a slew of other irresistable things. I would have loved to have worn it myself for the picture, but Mhairi has usurped it for her own nefarious purposes. So, if you see her walking around a mall carrying a cocktail tray, do NOT give her a tip. It only enourages her. Ok, on with the outfit. It comes complete with bunny ears and tail (what self-respecting bunny would be caught dead without them), textured bow tie and cuffs, and stockings. You can choose to wear the full hose or just stockings if you prefer. The texturing of the stockings is fantastic. They have little wrinkles making them look very vintage, when they used to be made of a heavy material instead of what we are used to now. A lovely touch!
Reasonable Desires - Strippable Bubbles!
This has GOT to be the cutest costume ..ever. Designed by Austie Pegler and Martini Joliat of Reasonable Desires is this adorable Strippable Bubbles costume with HUD. It comes complete with soap, scrub brush, and little rubber duckie for your shoulder named “Quackers” (not shown in pic). The HUD is very easy to operate with a diagram of where all the attachments are and you need only click and strip! The funniest thing is when you do that, you get a popping of bubbles sound. A sure crowd pleaser and event winner! You get all this for only 499L. A complete steal! Also pictured in the photo are suede slingback stilettos in Dove which can be found at the Basevi Moda Mainstore.
Got Schoolgirl?
With back-to-school shopping on people’s minds in a lot of real life places, I thought that the time might be right to do a little sexy back-to-school shopping in Second Life, and in my book (which I’ll cover with a paper bag book cover when I get home) that means we need to do some shopping for schoolgirl outfits. Today I’ll look at two stores, Freak Boutique and Haxworx. (Oh, and the bag you see in the second picture comes from another shop, Tori-Wear).
Freak Boutique in Stadtrand specializes in schoolgirl costumes. I was lucky enough to wander into the place when owner and designer Jenika Connolly was rearranging some of her displays to make room for a new line of cheerleader uniforms, and what a wonderful person and talented designer she is! (And look for me to go back for a future update on those cheerleader kits, wow!)
Now, in the pictures you see a lot of what Freak Boutique has to offer. The top picture shows one of four “complete” outfits that Jenika offers, and if you’re in a hurry to put together a sexy schoolgirl outfit, I recommend it highly. The “complete” collection I chose is called Monday Blues, and it really is a sweet deal if you want a well made and ready to go schoolgirl look, or even the individual pieces that make it. For just L$500, you get everything you see in the top picture, (including the shoes!) as well as a cool scripted notebook and pen set that only show up when you’re writing, so that you appear to be dutifully taking notes as you type.
The cool thing about Freak Boutique though, is that if you have the time to shop and are looking to put together something hot, Jenika sells the separates that can help. In the second picture, I’m wearing the School Daze button up blouse in charcoal (L$75) over the demi-bra (L$50) with the School Daze belted fishnet mini-skirt in faded blue (L$100). The socks, shoes, necktie, cool scripted notebook and pen- all of it is sold separately and all of it comes in like twenty-plus color combinations- yes, it’s like mix and match heaven! I am wearing, in fact the white blouse from the combination set as I write this with jeans and a sweater and look fantastic. (You may want to be sure you have a nice bra handy to go under or a sweater to go over, however, as it is a bit sheer). Go take a look at Freak Boutique, fun stuff to scratch your schoolgirl itch.
Before I move on to a totally different type of schoolgirl, let me point out the cute bag I’m wearing in the second picture- it’s a new line of bags from Tori-Wear in Ku that I thought would go very well with the schoolgirl look. The bag is just L$100 and comes with three different poses for you avatar to hold the bag (shoulder, arm and hand). It comes in several variations of color and pattern and I lurvs it.
For a lot of people, the idea of a schoolgirl costume evokes images of the traditional Catholic School Girl Uniform which begins with some sort of plaid skirt and goes from there; exactly the sort of thing that Freak Boutique specializes in. For others, however, a whole different culture comes to mind; the Japanese style school uniform. Haxworx is a store that specializes in Japanese school uniforms, and if you are interested in dressing up like one, this really is the store you have to see. Haxworx has several locations around Second Life, but their main store is in Crescent.
In my brief Second Life, I’ve tended to gravitate toward what I call the “Fashiony” stores that get blogged by everyone. I have a bunch of friends, though, that spend their SL hours in various roleplay or “Cosplay” (Costume Play) environments. Clothing from stores that cater to roleplay and Cosplay can vary from omg! to awful, so you have to beware, but some, like Haxworx, are truly hidden gems of SL. In the picture you see me in the black schoolgirl outfit, which is just a variation of the more traditional white and blue uniform. The outfit includes flexi prim attachments for the scarf and back flap, prim socks (as well as regular socks), shoes and the skirt itself, all for just L$250!
Haxworx owner and designer Beware Hax is not going for anything overtly sexual with his clothing, he is simply making authentic looking Japanese school uniforms. If you’re looking to sex it up for a “Best Schoolgirl” contest, I think his tops could mix beautifully with the skirts from a place like Freak Boutique, and his prices are such that you can walk away with a whole outfit for less than some stores charge for tops or jeans.
Another thing I’ve learned from my Cosplay and Roleplay friends is that a lot of the designers who make stuff for them build some pretty cool things into the clothes and gadgets. Haxworx skirts, for example, are scripted so that you can set the length with a typed command. In the first picture I’ve shortened the length of the skirt and left it alone in the second picture. And how cool is the outfit in the second picture? It’s a replica of anime character Iori Yoshizuki’s uniform, and comes with all you see for just L$300.
Do go take a look at Freak Boutique and Haxworx (and don’t forget a bag from Tori-Wear!). I’ll be keeping my eyes open for more schoolgirl outfits throughout August and September, so check back in here for more, or if you know of a great shop that has something I simply must wear for the first day of school, send me an IM!
For those who note such things: the hair in pictures one and two is a freebie/dollarbie from Gurl 6. The hair in pictures three and four was a freebie from Uncle Web Studio. The skin in the first two is an Eloh Eliot Mod I did myself (IM me if you want a copy) and the skin in pictures three and four is an Eloh Mod available at SYD.
Pretty as a Peacock
Recently, I had cause to find a sexy showgirl outfit for an event I wanted to attend. I checked out Reasonable Desires, my first stop for beautiful costumes, to see if there was anything that would suit. As usual, I found exactly the thing I was looking for. I saw this GORGEOUS peacock showgirl outfit! This one is a head turner to be sure. This show stopping number is really, really skimpy, so make sure you’re ready for all the attention *wink*. This costume is beautifully executed and is not lacking in detail in any way. I don’t know what it is about showgirl outfits, but if you wear one, you immediately feel like you’re the belle of the ball. Austie Pegler and Martini Joliat, the design team behind Reasonable Desires, know how to make our shapes look mighty sexy, I can tell you. Their designs are cheeky, fun, sexy and flawlessly constructed. I could go on and on, but I suggest you go and see for yourself. Check out her outlet at Stella’s Mall on Stella Isle or Reasonable Desires Main Store. You won’t be disappointed! /Me straps on her stilettos and rushes to find a kick line on stage.
Ballet anyone?
SavannahAnn McMillan of SPIRIT kindly sent me some of her new Spring ‘08 Ballet collection and how cute are these outfits?? They certainly unleash that inner prima ballerina in you 
The outfits are complete with tutu and matching purse (also available separately), as well as a longer skirt (scripted and unscripted), mix and match corsets and tops, and sculpted ballet slippers. They have lots of options for different looks. I’ve chosen Spring Ballet Class in Lavender and Spring Ballet Tutu/Corset outfit in Grape. Remember to warm up first!
Walk Like an Egyptian
Sometimes I get a chance to live a dream and when I got offered Akhu by Rfyre i knew my dream of being Cleopatra would be realized.
For a woman who said “Celerity is never more admired than by the negligent” and “I will not be triumphed over” she remains a fascinating person. This outfit is a stunning way to enjoy the feel of ancient Egypt without having to worry about killing yourself with an asp. Comprised of a top , a prim skirt, a prim jeweled headdress and collar, Prim hair, halter on undershirt layer, a basic shirt,that has just a hint of whats underneath and prim arm bands. Selling at L$700 , you actually can hear the Nile in the background.
I was so enthused with this outfit that i was transported back in time to when she was the last the last Pharaoh of Ancient Egypt. Rumor has it a male version is in the works for your own private rendition of Egyptology.
Visions of henna and the romance will fill you wearing this outfit.
Pretty as a peacock
I have had a hankering for a peacock outfit since I first started treading the boards. So you can imagine my delight (think squeeing and dancing around) at finding one that is not only absolutely beautiful, but that comes with layer options and is -free!-.
The lovely four Yip is sharing this little masterpiece absolutely gratis - pop round the corner from her shop and look for a little black curtained shack… I won’t tell you what delights await inside, but frankly I could have stayed there for hours. But then, I -am- a burlesque dancer.
The outfit itself is beautiful, with the most gorgeous texturing that really captures the soft, downy feel of feathers. It features a bra and panties that look to have been made out of feathers, accented with tiny little beads - and beneath those layers there is the option for the briefest pair of briefs imaginable and some peacock feather pasties. I’m usually a bit uncertain about textured pasties rather than prim ones, as they can tend to look a bit like a splodge, but these ones really work! Plus it means I don’t have to perform some impressive sleight of hand when performing, always a bonus!
The prim feathers are equally gorgeous, accenting the panties and bra as well as providing a headdress and, of course, the peacock tail. The alpha work here is wonderfully clean.
I adore the delicate play of colours on this piece - from the striking blues to the murky greens. And of course, I couldn’t resist vamping it up just a little more. Added to the mix are the yummy long length turquoise gloves from Fleur (formerly Tete a Pied), the dark green sheer lace stockings from *PERSONA*, the brown (yes, brown!) Mary Geos from Shiny Things and Eolande’s Peacock Headdress for ETD’s Sophia hair. The skin is Aurora 2, also from Fleur.
I sincerely and desperately hope that four makes some more outfits like this, because if she does, I’ll be right at the front of the queue.
KC Fashions – Deliver us some sexy
This doesn’t need an introduction. Heck, it probably doesn’t even need a write up, although naturally I’m going to give it one. Say hello to ‘Deliverence’ from KC Fashions, a multiple part set that comes together to form a seriously erotic bodysuit.
I couldn’t show you all the pieces in all their variations without spamming the blog with pictures, so I’m modelling this in its fullest. The jacket and pants have the option of being opaque, but really, that doesn’t do this outfit any justice at all. I adore the cutouts front, back and sides – paired with the underlayers it makes this outfit absolutely smoking hot.
The high neck runs with stud button fastening, the skin tight top gathering to the close, opening beneath to cutout sections overlaid with transparent latex. Tendrils of the undershirt wind below, a scrolling frame to suggest modesty although not fully providing it. Embossed glyphs top either sleeve, mirrored on the front of the trousers; the patterning is picked up in the chunky belt that locks around the waist, a welcome accessory that fits the look just perfectly. To the legs, you’ll find more openings on the hips and on the inner thigh, offering glimpses of the set stockings which run similar keyhole details down their length, evidenced here to the base (I’d normally favour boots with this outfit, but I thought you might like a peek).
The light catches convincingly, little inflections in the tone and shifts in the material bringing this whole thing to life. What’s more, it comes in other delectable colours, making me want to buy one of each… oh yes, they’re that nice.
While this is definitely my favourite of KCs newest releases, it’s not the only thing in store that demands attention.
‘Radiance’ is difficult to overlook: it rather screams “Look at me!” from every angle. The drama of it is exaggerated by the flowing chain mail cloak with bulging pauldrons and spiked neckpiece. Worn with or without, you can still be sure to cause a scene wherever you go in this fantastic outfit.
Again there are various layers provided, so you can dress as modestly or immodestly as you like. Quite honestly, you don’t need to bare all for this to be sexy; the chain undercoat and trouser pieces look very elegant (amazingly so for body armour) although the superimposed latticework is extremely artful and really does make this outfit. Cutout sections all over give a wonderful contrast to the flesh – I imagine this would look especially good on a darker skin – with two skirt options to suit your mood. Either an open fronted chain panel skirt with double banded belt, or a draped length of silver link to front and back, suspended by a silver waist piece. Again, these may work best with boots, but I wanted to show you the whole of each leg (and get out these sparklies from Storm Schmooz).
Last but by no means least, we have ‘Solaris’. If you buy it for no other reason, note that it has massive potential for costume parties: the floor-length cape is constructed from loose link metal hoops and is supremely dramatic, falling from sloped shoulders that connect to the front with a serpent-embossed medallion.
Layering options allow for increased transparency in the chain areas, or maximum opacity wherever you see fit. Of course you can take bits off to your heart’s content for some minimalistic glamour – think chainmail silks (see the store ads for more pictures… they’re delicious). The armoured undershirt collars high up the neck and runs into gloves for an all-concealing fit. Atop this, the triple buckle leather shirt sits tight, generously open to front and back with further buckle details both sides to ensure everything’s locked in place.
The skirting options are similar to Radiance, featuring metal-edged belts set with link chain and a winged serpent on the buckle. These sit well over the neatly trimmed trousers that bear angled panels to reveal more mail beneath. The matching booties do come as part of the set, which makes a great addition and finishes everything perfectly: it also saves you agonising as to what on earth to cover your toes with.
These may be some of Kittrannia Cassini’s newer releases, but are certainly not the only ones worthy of note. Drop by yourself and have a look at the selection: seriously sexy, ladies, I promise.
Deliverence, $425L ; Radiance, $650L ; Solaris, $725L
I have designs on Mika…
I while back I stumbled upon Designs by Mika - and boy was I ever happy I did! It has been said that I have a weakness for feathers, so I was absolutely over the moon to find these little gems. I’d even be prepared to say these are the absolute best headdresses I’ve found to date. I love them to -bits-. Instead of just being a bunch of feathers (however beautifully textured said feathers may be) balanced on your noggin’, Mika has taken the time to create a natty little hat to mount them on. Just look at the details! I snapped it up in red for a bargainous L$45. Yes, you did read that correctly.
It also comes in white, black and white, and black - though for an extra $L20 you can get the black version with a darling little tail piece (which I have paired here with the Mrs Diamond set from House of Nyla - which is also incredible). I really love the feather textures Mika uses in these pieces.
For those of you less inclined to strip down to next to nothing and put on a bit of a show (though it doesn’t have to be on stage you know!), Mika also has a line of animated hand fans, vintage inspired hats and various other accessories from neck scarves to cigarette holders -
all at incredibly low prices. The ‘Fran’ fedora I’m wearing here and the cigarette holder, which includes an animated ‘hold’, set me back a paltry $L35 each. She even does smile attachments. Well you do want to smile for the camera don’t you?
Crimson Shadow
Crimson Shadow is a store that’s been on the grid for several months now, and I am quite ashamed to say that I’ve only just found it. Slap on the wrists for me: now to make up for lost time.
There are several designers contributing here, all with their own ideas and specialisations, so you will almost certainly find something that shouts out to you when you visit. Latex always works for me, and this seriously sexy costume piece was the first thing I honed in on in store.
To neglect to blog this would have been criminal indeed, but knowing quite where to start poses a small problem. Objectively, my eyes are drawn to the blood red bodice that peeps through, although clearly it’s the overcoat that steals the show. A tight fitting jacket sucks around the torso, trimmed with a thick fur collar and wrinkled back and front to the body’s bend. Puffed sleeves emphasise the second skin effect around the waist, with full length gloves to complete the effect.
To the back the coat seems all concealing, sheets of latex primed and pulled to create a two-tiered skirt effect. A buffed belt encircles the small of the back for some extra depth and detail. At the front, everything lies open with a bunched band concealing the midriff, simple black panties prominently on display. Tightly webbed thigh highs trimmed with jagged lace elastic decorate the legs with high heeled boots to complete the look.
If that wasn’t enough for you, a cast iron sceptre with glowing set stone is provided for your accessorising pleasure. My personal favourite though is this stylish topper: as with any hat, you’ll probably have to rework your ‘do slightly to get it to fit but golly gosh it is worth it. It’s not boxy at all, in fact the sides carry a subtle outward slope to ensure a perfect shape, with layered hat band and a tilted rim: it’s not fussy but a very simple design, definitely ripe for pairing with some of your other outfits.
I also fell head over heels for this little number, which comes with the option of the dinky mini (as shown) or the long ball skirt. The longer skirt doesn’t allow me to flaunt my hose-endowed legs for you, so I’ve only pictured the shorter one here.
The dress features a deeply plunging neckline edged with scalloped lace that is very delicate, providing a soft line for the eye to follow. The bodice is laced centrally with black cord, drawing tight the lightly meshed fabric. The capped sleeves are trimmed with light leaves in a fine mesh, a stylistic feature that also completes the collar and lengthy cuffs. It gives this outfit a fairytale appeal, elegant in the extreme, especially when paired with the gown skirt.
For my skins, I’m adoring the wide-pleated mini. It might be the way the twisted belt sits just above it, or the pretty ribbon bows that are tacked to either side. I think though that it’s the considered web overlay, sewn to points on the outer edges, with the frazzled lace of the petticoat buoying up beneath. It bounces like a tutu, and when I’m wearing it I really do feel like skipping rather than walking. It’s girlie goodness with a darker slant, and I’m lapping that up.
The stockings don’t leave any space for leg flesh, which is actually just what the doctor ordered here. The diagonal mesh is broken down with smaller net panels, interspersed with sewn boxes at intervals – very nicely done, although there is the foreseeable seamage. Shoes are also provided with the set, strappy stilettos with pointy toes. They’re not sculptie but I really don’t think you’d be ashamed to wear them out.
My final choice was a pants set which comes with everything you see here. While I liked the criss cross belt, banded boots and skin tight trousers, the attention is quite rightly on the brilliant batty corset. A wide neck exposes plenty of skin, with fine arches threaded on either side of the shoulders. The bat wing neckline is drawn in painstaking detail, but you may need to focus a little harder on the chest to realise that it’s not just the wings that have been incorporated into this piece. The screeching beastie is pinned by his head beneath the twined cord, strung through double set eyelets to the centre of the chest and flanked with silk ribbon panels. The material pulls tight around the waist, similar details picked to the back and bottoms.
There is so much on offer at Crimson Shadow, you really need to port over there and check it out for yourself.
Black Latex n Top Hat Set: $1000L ; Lace and Web Dress: $1000L ; Womens Bat Corset Set $700L
