I’ve found second life can be many things to many people such as entertainment, a getaway, escape, business, a place to create a family and live, learn, laugh, love and make lasting relationships. Throughout all of this living and experiencing all that second life has to offer for those of us in the fashion industry we know that it’s essential to be able to set yourself apart, to be noticed and be different. If you looked like the next person around how could someone look at your avatar and say- there she is! There are several ways to help this along but I’m here to just give you a few tips that will hopefully change the quality of your life and how people recognize YOU!

One of the most important things you should do is set yourself away from the in-crowd. There are tons of great skin out there and top quality and poplar designers but if everyone is getting the same skin and look then how does that make you different? How does that make you unique? The quality of that skin just went down because you’ve conformed to some cookie cutter image that was set out for you. We see skins on ads and some of us try to look exactly like those models in those ads with the same skin and clothing. Bad idea here chickadees. The point is to do something different and make it your own so modify your shape to something where you can look at it and say- yes this is different, unique and beautiful. My advice would be to stay away from store bought shapes altogether because you never know who else could have that shape. If you are dead set on buying one then try to find one that is modifiable so that you can tweak parts of it to make it your own.

Lately designers are really into sets or giving outfits in their packages. While this is wildly convenient it can also work against you. I know I’ve probably said it a ton of times in my previous posts here and there or hinted toward this but it’s true and it bears repeating until it’s seared into your brains. Don’t try to copy a fashion icon or whatever you see that makes you think it’s the “it” thing. That will only make you a follower and to be like that person in the greatest sense of the term is to create a look and style all your own whether it be sophisticated, conservative, eclectic, casual, comfortable, sexy, quirky, or offbeat. Does it take more time and effort to do so? You bet your bottom dollar it does! But it’s going that extra step and really taking some time and effort that sets you apart. Do you think all those top named stylists are where they are and WHO they are because they copied a fashion icon? Nope! They worked their butts off to be different and seen as something apart from the millions of others that call themselves stylists. It’s not as effortless as they make it look and if they made it look like they worked at it they weren’t doing their jobs properly. When you can do something well and make it look like you’re not even trying then you’ve fooled the masses and succeeded in your goal!

Now do I know ALL there is to know about fashion? Heck no! Does anyone? Umm that would be a resounding NO. Fashion is always changing because the whim and opinion of the masses are always changing so the day that someone knows everything about fashion is the day that it’s no longer interesting and unique. This is why I didn’t give any set measurements and points but more of a general outlining that will help you become unique because you never know when those things will change. But I know through the years of what I observed and they seem to stay true no matter the decade. So if you don’t want to take my advice then look at fashion over the years and take a look at the well known stylists, models, or fashion icons and see what they’ve had to say on their style or how they dressed. Did they follow the parade or did they set out to the beat of their own drummer, confident in themselves and their skills? I’ll let you be the judge of that my friends!

I recently had the awesome chance to sit down and have a chat with a pretty cool designer, GryphElyse, who specializes in comfortable high quality clothing for women and also has selections for men as well. I was lucky enough that she replied to my letter of inquiry for an interview after she finally managed to get her shop up and situated. It was a pretty interesting conversation and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I believe that you all will to! She gave some insight to her designs, lines, what it took to get where she is, and how she got started. She also gave some great tips to aspiring designers! Be sure to check this out and run, don’t walk, to her store to take a peek at her latest designs! You can check out here store HERE. You can also check out a sneak peek of some of her designs after the interview. Enjoy!

KaylenaMaria Destiny: Thank you again for agreeing to do the interview with me. I really appreciate it. -smile-
GryphElyse Wingtips: I really appreciate you taking the time to interview me! =D
GryphElyse Wingtips: I am always enthusiastic to let people know about my designs >.>
KaylenaMaria Destiny: Well from what I saw they are really nice. =D
GryphElyse Wingtips: Aww, thank you <3 *blushes*
KaylenaMaria Destiny: What made you start designing?
GryphElyse Wingtips: Hmm that actually goes back to before Second Life
GryphElyse Wingtips: If you’ve ever heard of There, it’s a platform that was sort of SL’s runty little sibling.It’s long closed now, but that was where I started out.But my motivations There were really the same as here. I saw a lot of clothing that I didn’t want to wear xD so I decided to make some for myself.
KaylenaMaria Destiny laughs, “That’s usually the way of it I think. Hehe.Which I can completely understand. I’d be designing clothes myself if I had the patience. Hehe”
GryphElyse Wingtips: My very first design was a pair of boots – the Stomp boots, actually – they’re quite old now, but they’re in the Legacy section for sentimental purposes… all I could find for women were stilleto heels and bling… that was really how it went for a long time, was just me trying to fill the gap of clothes for SL residents who didn’t want to look… how do I say this tactfully… *cough* streetwalker-ish.
KaylenaMaria Destiny grins, “I hear you on that one.”
GryphElyse Wingtips: I’d still like to think my stuff is pretty sexy ^^; but that remains one of my main motivations, is to stay classy
GryphElyse Wingtips: …am I getting ahead of myself? >.>’
GryphElyse Wingtips: you were probably going to ask that xD
KaylenaMaria Destiny: LOL
KaylenaMaria Destiny: It’s fine. =)
KaylenaMaria Destiny: I love hearing about the inspiration behind a designers line and whatnot.
KaylenaMaria Destiny: I think that it can be inspiring to others that have the same view.
GryphElyse Wingtips: :3 I have one other motivation that’s very related to that.
KaylenaMaria Destiny: Oh? do tell! :3
GryphElyse Wingtips: Well of course several other motivations including paying the rent xD but what I was referring to was that I want to make something a little different, something you can’t find if you just step into a random botique.
GryphElyse Wingtips: And of course that’s related to the, excuse my tactless…. I call them “Slutwear Emporia”… they’re everywhere.
KaylenaMaria Destiny: That’s certainly true from what I’ve seen. Your designs seem to have a bit of an outdoorsy and comfortable feel but they certainly don’t put aside femininity!
GryphElyse Wingtips: Thank you! That’s what I was going for. <3 Well not always outdoorsy, that’s actually just the Altitude series
KaylenaMaria Destiny: Ah I see. So you have more themes available for different styles?
GryphElyse Wingtips: Yus, one of my favorite series that’s just starting is the Dawn collection…. inspiration from all over Asia… China, Thailand, India… that’s in the works, but you can see it in the Arum tunic.
KaylenaMaria Destiny: That sounds great! I’ve always loved cultural influences. They can bring something new to outfits :3
GryphElyse Wingtips: Yus! I’ve always been very interested in Asia, I even visited Thailand once… that’s where I got some of my inspiration for that series.
KaylenaMaria Destiny: Oh now I’ll definitely have to check that line out! :3
GryphElyse Wingtips: There’s going to be silk involved, Mandarin collars, frog buttons… and I’m planning some sculpted harem pants!
GryphElyse Wingtips: But that’s not out yet so shhh >.>
KaylenaMaria Destiny grins, “Hehe. Your secret is safe. lol!”
GryphElyse Wingtips: Except to your readers! xD
GryphElyse Wingtips: *waves to everyone*
KaylenaMaria Destiny: Yup and I’m sure it will have them anticipating and salivating for it to come. haha
GryphElyse Wingtips: Exactly *wink*
KaylenaMaria Destiny: So I’m always wondering, did you come in with a graphical background to become a designer?
GryphElyse Wingtips: Yes, actually
GryphElyse Wingtips: I have a ton of RL art background
GryphElyse Wingtips: Even went to an arts-focused high school GryphElyse Wingtips: I love drawing… I have a few comics that I started… people are my favorite things to draw
KaylenaMaria Destiny: Oh cool. Your clothing really has an air of quality that I’ve seen takes some skill and knowledge behind it.
GryphElyse Wingtips: It was designing that really got me into digital art, though… I learned Photoshop as I went along.
GryphElyse Wingtips: Oh, thank you.
GryphElyse Wingtips: It’s taken me a long, long time to build up these mad skillz. xD But yes, I would definitely say that the RL art background has been invaluable. Knowing how to shade, knowing what cloth folds look like, etc.
KaylenaMaria Destiny: I say that because I tried to design clothing with no knowledge or previous experience and well……they didn’t turn out so great. lol! So I definitely say kudos to you!
GryphElyse Wingtips: Awww, don’t feel bad xD
GryphElyse Wingtips: Everyone has different talents!
KaylenaMaria Destiny: lol. Oh I don’t anymore. My job now is to get designers’s names out there and help spread the fashion. :3
GryphElyse Wingtips: And you’re fantastic at that.
KaylenaMaria Destiny: Thank you! I do try. *tries to look modest but fails miserably* lmao!
GryphElyse Wingtips: Haha Speaking of modest, have you heard the news? I’ve got the best jeans in SL. It’s official. *polishes fingernails modestly*
KaylenaMaria Destiny laughs, “Oh I can believe it! And you have clothing for men as well right?”
GryphElyse Wingtips: *nod* I try to do something for guys as often as possible, cause I know how hard it is to find decent stuff for men. All my jeans are unisex, there’s that.
KaylenaMaria Destiny: God yes. I try shopping for my male friends and want to tear my hair out. lol
GryphElyse Wingtips: And as often as I can I make a male version of a release. I can’t do it for most stuff, like this Theta top, but I do have a couple items planned that are just for guys.
KaylenaMaria Destiny: Oh that’s a part of your line? I was admiring it. Gonna have to go pick one up. hehe
GryphElyse Wingtips: Everything I’m wearing is from my store ^^; Even the boots, as you’ll note their lack of stilletto heel
KaylenaMaria Destiny: better for not tripping and breaking your ankles in. *laughs*
GryphElyse Wingtips: and easier to sculpt *grin* that was my first sculpt, I was just learning the program. They came out awesome though. xD I tend to be kind of a perfectionist when it comes to… well, everything.
KaylenaMaria Destiny: So yo’d say it was easy to get into sculpting?
GryphElyse Wingtips: Uhhhh that would be a NO. xD
KaylenaMaria Destiny laughs
GryphElyse Wingtips: It still takes me days to make a sculpt. This knot on my shoulder, for example… tricky as heck.
KaylenaMaria Destiny: Well they all came out beautifully I can say that
GryphElyse Wingtips: Really my fault; if I were less of a perfectionist things would be much easier. I won’t upload something if I haven’t spent at least 20 hours tweaking >.<’ it makes for slower releases, but I consider it worth it for the little quality things like matched seams
KaylenaMaria Destiny: But being a perfectionist just brings the quality of your work to a higher level and people recognize that.
GryphElyse Wingtips: I hope they do! :3
KaylenaMaria Destiny: I know I have. Now I want to go get a pair of those shoes. lol!
GryphElyse Wingtips: they’re boots akshly… let me show you the rest. These are the Altitude boots, from *dingdingding* the Altitude series xD They’re from a few months ago… big customer favorite. Kind of a wintry look.
KaylenaMaria Destiny: Wow. I didn’t even notice that! They looked like normal shoes. That’s clever and they look great. Makes me want to go somewhere snowy to wear them. lolz
GryphElyse Wingtips: You can’t see the laces too well, but I was thinking of eskimo moccasins xD
GryphElyse Wingtips: I spent hours getting the leather to look raw and worn and natural
KaylenaMaria Destiny: Yeah. That was the feel I got from them too. ^_^
KaylenaMaria Destiny: You succeeded!
GryphElyse Wingtips: Yay!
GryphElyse Wingtips: I think they go great with jeans *nudge nudge wink wink* especially jeans with a Seat Shaper >.>
KaylenaMaria Destiny: When I saw the photos you sent me I really marveled over them because while some would say they are simple I’ve seen enough clothing to recognize the workmanship. The textures looked really soft and natural
KaylenaMaria Destiny: *laughs*
GryphElyse Wingtips: Nothing in my store is simple xD
GryphElyse Wingtips: well, not in terms of how much time goes into it
KaylenaMaria Destiny: And I know there are plenty of women (and men) that enjoy dressing down in SL but want to keep their style. That looks like you’re not even trying.
GryphElyse Wingtips: Oh, yeah… and want to stay classy but still wear something that is unique, maybe a little unusual, attracts a second glance…. that’s what I’m going for
KaylenaMaria Destiny: Well you certainly did at that. I was actually going to inspect you to see wheree it came from but didn’t want to look obvious with my edit beams tagging you. LOL XD
GryphElyse Wingtips: O nooooes I’m being molestered by particle beams *writhes*
KaylenaMaria Destiny: lmfao!!!
GryphElyse Wingtips: Just a shoutout to anyone reading this… if you don’t like that crack in your SL av mesh, seriously, check out the jeans… you’ve never seen jeans like this >:D
KaylenaMaria Destiny: lol!!!!!!
GryphElyse Wingtips: *forcefully shuts off advertising mode* Shush, Gryph!
KaylenaMaria Destiny: you’re a riot! lol
GryphElyse Wingtips: I gotta pay the rent! xD
KaylenaMaria Destiny: oh trust me I know that feeling. XD
GryphElyse Wingtips: ;_; Still trying to get a big enough customer base to break even on my massive rent
GryphElyse Wingtips: but my shop is oh so pretty D:
GryphElyse Wingtips: *waves arms wildly* I’m over heeeere! Throw money at meeee!
KaylenaMaria Destiny: Well I’m going to see what I can do about getting more to ya.
GryphElyse Wingtips: …you can edit that out >.>
KaylenaMaria Destiny: lmfao!!!
GryphElyse Wingtips: xD Thank youuu <3
GryphElyse Wingtips: I’m also saving up for a scripted vendor and gift card system…. I know the current system is a tad annoying
GryphElyse Wingtips: Still got $5k to go, but it’ll be worth it if I can make things easier for my customers <3
KaylenaMaria Destiny: Well they do say improvements take time and have to start with what you have. ^_^
GryphElyse Wingtips: Indeed!
KaylenaMaria Destiny: o.o wow being a designer is expensive
GryphElyse Wingtips: I started SL without a single cent >.>
GryphElyse Wingtips: I still haven’t bought any L$ in the entire time I’m here, I’m making it a game to see how long I can go.
GryphElyse Wingtips: (I’m a few years old now)
GryphElyse Wingtips: I camped to get enough money for my first texture uploads xDDD
KaylenaMaria Destiny: WOW
KaylenaMaria Destiny: I’m doubly impressed now
GryphElyse Wingtips: Xstreet SL has been a major help for me, although it doesn’t have my latest stuff…. I’m looking forward to the Marketplace
GryphElyse Wingtips: as soon as they take it out of beta… *grumble grr missing features argh*
KaylenaMaria Destiny: Well that’s an inspiration to anyone thinking they need to bring in big bucks from outside SL. It can be done.
KaylenaMaria Destiny: lol
GryphElyse Wingtips: Haha… oh yeah… but those people should know that it took me two years to even get enough L$ to rent a tiny parcel!
KaylenaMaria Destiny: Hey rome wasn’t built in a day. lol
KaylenaMaria Destiny: Do you have a website perchance?
GryphElyse Wingtips: Yups! Gryphon Wings Home Page
KaylenaMaria Destiny: oh i love wix. XD
GryphElyse Wingtips: It’s a lovely site…. I even have a page with a “sketchbook” of my designer process and some ideas I have for upcoming designs
GryphElyse Wingtips: I love showing people my process
GryphElyse Wingtips: I’m just so excited whenever I start a new design I want to share it xD
KaylenaMaria Destiny: Oh and I’m sure that they find that invaluable…especially aspiring designers and those interested in the thought behind the work
GryphElyse Wingtips: *nod* I try to take time to give tips to aspiring designers
KaylenaMaria Destiny: Do you have any last minute tips for them?
GryphElyse Wingtips: I’m also conducting a survey over a period of time, whenver I can find a successful designer, I have a notecard that asks things about their process… getting tips for me and for all the other up-and-comings… gonna put it on my site someday….
GryphElyse Wingtips: oh! Eheh sorry got carried away
GryphElyse Wingtips: Hmmm…. the most important thing when you design is that you understand shading and clothing folds… so I advise designers to study RL art… maybe do some figure drawing… learn to draw the clothes first, then paint them on an avatar
GryphElyse Wingtips: you don’t have to know proportions or anything, it’s all about shading and knowing how light falls
KaylenaMaria Destiny: Do you use any special tools? I know some people like to use tablets when they draw in pc programs
GryphElyse Wingtips: Oh heck yeah, I would not be able to LIVE without my Wacom tablet… I’m using a really fancy Intuos4, but you can get by with a $50 Graphire or Bamboo Fun tablet as long as it’s pressure sensitive
GryphElyse Wingtips: My dream one day is that I’ll be big, like people-know-my-name Big, like Maitreya or League… because then I’ll be able to afford a Cintiq tablet where you draw right on the screen
KaylenaMaria Destiny: That’s probably best for those serious designers. You have to have the right tools to create great work.

GryphElyse Wingtips: Yup, and patience out the wazoo xD
KaylenaMaria Destiny: I hear ya!

KaylenaMaria Destiny: Thank you again so much for interviewing with me. I’m sure MPI readers and models will love your designs! and you’ll have more customers than you can handle!

You’d be surprised at the type of fashion mistakes that most women make and at how easily they can be prevented but we’re here to help you with that and to get you back on the right track. Some of these tips can help with your real life fashion problems as well and I hope that they are of some use to you in the future. Enjoy!

1. People rely way too much on the fashion media.
I’m one of the first people to say that I love to read all the fashion magazines and soak it all up like a sponge but there are times when you see something that looks fabulous on various celebrities and models and you go- “I just have to have that!” You’d think that logic would work and make sense when put into reality and practice but it rarely does. When you see those celebrity fashions they are something to aspire to not copy-cat. You could end up getting something completely overpriced and then having it not fit you correctly or look completely wrong with your shape, body type or face. There are many ways to make a style work for you but you need to make it your own by putting your own spin on it. A square neckline and empire waist may work for some but maybe you’ll need to go with a V-neck and an A-line outfit. It all depends on your body and personal style. So enjoy the magazines and the new trends but let it inspire you to be creative on your own and become your own fashionista- not a fashion victim.

2. Buying clothes that don’t fit.
You would think that this is an obvious one but many people overlook the other aspects of this. There is much more to fit than just being able to zip the darn thing up or have it look decent on you. The length of your sleeves or hem can make or break an outfit so take a look at the following tips. (Note: I’ve added a few other tips that may be helpful in your real life as well. -smile-)

• Long sleeved garments should hit just below the wrist bone with just a little ease
  
• A button-front blouse should never gap open at the bustline. If the garment seems to fit, the problem may just be wide-spaced buttons. Attach a snap.
• A slim or pencil skirt should fit without bunching or wrinkling up. Do the sit-down test.
• Hemline correction — skirts should be completely straight all the way around. If that’s not the case (because of hips or tummy) have it rehemmed.
• Tailored pants should fall to the top of your instep.
• Long, formal gowns should fall to about an inch off the ground.

3.Creating a mish-mash wardrobe by buying odds and ends.
Buying up odds and ends on sale may seem to make sense. After all, the easy availability of off-price merchandise has lulled us into thinking that minor purchases won’t blow our wardrobe concept or budget. It’s really the little pieces that can completely destroy an outfit if you’re not careful. Take a look at the below tips on how to get on the right track.

• Stop impulse buying. Every L$ 10 mistake you would have picked up in a bargain bin goes to a really great wardrobe.
• In the first step of cleaning out your closet, eliminate everything that doesn’t fit or that you haven’t worn in a year.
• A few weeks later, go back and get rid of all the stuff you fudged on the first time around.
• With what’s left, begin identifying a theme to your wardrobe, relying on favorite looks, colors and lifestyle pieces.
• Decide on three colors that either match or will coordinate with what you own and buy only those three colors for apparel.
• Establish a workable budget.
• Make a list of all the items you need in your wardrobe.
• Set aside an hour of time each week or day to shop – online or off.
• Avoid trendy items.
• Buy clothing that will span two or three seasons – like wool crepe or matte jersey
• Purchase only clothes that work with something you already own.
• Pass on anything that doesn’t fit – no matter how great a buy.
• Try to add only one or two well-thought out items per day or week. (depends on RL or SL)
• Add punchy color and trendiness with accessories, shoes, handbags.
• Continually eliminate and replace essential wardrobe pieces once it is built up so that you are never caught without a necessary item.

4. Getting stuck in a style rut.
Sticking with classics has been conventional style wisdom for ages, and for women with full lives and limited resources this is still a sure way to investment dressing. The problem is that as we grow older, we sometimes become a little too comfortable wearing our old standbys (or just doing “replenishment” shopping each season). Sometimes all it takes is tweaking the basics that you already own to look fabulous.

• Pick up a women’s magazine you normally wouldn’t buy (hint: should have more fashion than recipes on the cover). Elle, Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar and W are good starters.
• Go to a different store (online or physical) and try on new labels, even if the style is similar to what you already own. You may be surprised what you’re missing if you rely on certain set merchants and brands.
• Slip in some punchy color. Every season there’s a trendy color palette, and it’s usually not too hard to figure out what it is. Use color as accent pieces — a bright scarf, a camisole under a suit.
• Accessories are the easiest ways to update a look. Choose a new handbag, sexy sandals or a new necklace. If you’re not sure what’s modern, ask a sales associate (or instore models) to point you to what’s hot — they usually know what others are asking for.

Well I for one understand the difficulties of trying to find something fabulous to wear in your inventory when you’ve worn it all or seen it all. It can get boring, staid, and uninteresting. What’s a gal (or man) to do when they can’t find an outfit in their inventory that they haven’t worn before and doesn’t have the money to go on a shopping spree to get some much needed alone time and pampering? It’s quite simple really- mix it up! Who in the world said that you had to wear the outfits you bought as you bought them? I didn’t read that anywhere in the manual or package when I purchased my outfits and I’m sure you didn’t either- unless it had something to do with scripts. But what’s the point of being a fashionista if you don’t want to be creative and make your own outfits? It can be tough if you are in a lag and can’t really come up with some ideas and sitting there sifting through thousands of items can be a bit of a drag if it ends up taking 2 or 3 hours but if you really do love your fashion then this should be a breeze for you and fun to boot!

We’ve gotten so lazy nowadays in second life with our outfits because they are all coordinated for us when we purchase them from the designer which is greatly appreciated- don’t get me wrong- but it makes us complacent in the world of fashion and we can’t truly be ourselves. Sure, you can purchase and outfit that fits your personality but what happened to making it your own? Why not instead of just adding your own accessories you create a whole new style?! And yes, there will be many critiques of your style and outfits- it’s to be expected really so just do your thing and make it your own brand. Mix up outfits from various designers or if you want to have a challenge mix it up with that same designer with various outfits you’ve already purchase.

Not in the mood to do it because you hate having to search through your inventory time and again to recreate an outfit? Oh that’s another easy if not quick fix for that problem. Style cards are a great resource to take advantage of when it comes to making your outfits or styling them. It’s something that many stylists use when dealing with clients so why not take advantage of a well known secret? It’s quite simple to make a style card. All you have to do is create a folder for it that you can find easily. I usually place it at the top of my inventory by putting a few spaces before the folder name and then create a new notecard in that folder. Once you have your outfit go ahead and write down the various pieces that you are wearing and save the notecard. You’ll be able to go back later and pick those pieces out. Also, if you haven’t heard yet, second life 2 has a nifty little feature that allows you to save your outfits and unlike with the old second life viewer or other third party viewers that I know it won’t move your items from their original folders but just create links that will allow you to wear the entire saved outfit in a pinch! What a world huh? This is a great feature for models of second life when you’re creating your quick change folders although I do hear that it slows down your computer a bit if you don’t have a high processing computer so like with all things it has it’s ups and it’s downs.

Well that’s all the time I have for you with your tip of the day. This is a new feature that will be added to the blog. It may not be everyday but it’ll be something to help you out in times of need. If you have questions pertaining to fashion, second life fashion, designers, employment, shows, news, etc feel free to leave a comment and we’ll do our best to get those answered. You never know, it may be a new feature added to the blog as well. We will be in the process of revamping a few things so please stay tuned and be patient as we get those various things in place for your viewing pleasure.

As a model in second life having a good and high quality portfolio is a big part of the business and getting yourself out there to get more work. There have been a huge influx of new photographers on the scene lately if the increase of notices sent out in groups for advertisement is anything to go by. And how are these photographers increasing competing with the older, veteran industry photographers? They are charging so much less! Now the question you really need to ask yourself, is a lower cost going to bring you a great photo or a mediocre one?

Now I’m not going to name any photographers because we all have our personal opinions and tastes on who we prefer and who has the better quality photos. I think that every photographer has their own strong points and has their own level of quality and knowledge in their skills. Now new models may wonder how do they find the good photographers and how do they go about having a successful encounter and end up with a wonderful portfolio? That’s what I’m here to help with.

1. It’s easy to find a photographer on the grid with a little bit of skill and a low price and it’s natural to be hesitant to go with a photographer that charges a higher rate because then you wonder is it truly worth it. But is it worth it to pay and get a photograph that is lower quality than others? It’s not a bad thing to pay for quality. It takes time to discover those great photograhers out there and you will have to do some searching. So check out the classifieds and places in the search tab for photographers or photography. Teleport to the locations and check out their work, rates, what services they offer and whatnot. Take your time and scout them out. It’s easy to get overwhelmed and tired of doing it so you end up rushing. This is definitely the wrong tact to take. I always suggest to new models and even veteran models to have photographers that they like or end up considering for work later on in a notecard in their inventory listing their name, rates, services, and a note or two on what you particularly liked about that photographer to job your memory later on.

2. Now you may wonder how to have a successful photo shoot. You may think, “Well don’t I just have to show up in the outfit, say what type of pose I want and then have them make the shot? Is there really anymore to it?” The answer to that is there definitely is. It’s always good to have a clear visual and idea of the picture you want in your mind’s eye so you can better be able to describe your vision to the photographer. They are a tool to be used and like any tool they can’t work successfully without being directed on what to do. If you give you them a real and clear idea of what you want you’re going to get it. So be sure to IM the photographer and talk to them about what you want, write it down in a notecard and send it to them (properly named so they can find it) so they can look back on what you want. I always say, be as descriptive as you possibly can to get your point of view across. You want them to be able to see it as clearly as you do.

3. If you do not like it, change it. Now if you did step two properly then you really shouldn’t have a problem with step three. Now for a quick explanation. You are a paying customer and as they always say, “the customer is always right.” and that’s a motto that most businesspersons tend to follow. So if you gave them some direction and are not satisified and feel that you want a change here and there, ask for it it. But be specific. Don’t just say, “Oh I don’t like this.” What don’t you like about it? What could be changed? What would you rather be changed? You have the right to get your money’s worth.

4. Select versatile outfits and views of your look. Modeling is about variety and being able to fit any role that is thrown your way in a job so mae sure that when you give your portfolio to a client that they are able to see you in a many number of looks, themes, and styles- basically see you in any role.

5. Be sure that your photograph makes sense and the idea you were going for translates off the page. Why would you be laying down in a swimsuit if you really need to be able to see your body and the design of your outfit? Why would you wear a couture gown with an irrelevant background that doesn’t make any sense. The viewer should be able to see that outfit on themselves and understand what it is trying to convey.

6. Choose your poses carefully. People can usually photoshop anything but a truly bad pose is not something you can smudge away. So take consideration of your prims, how you are looking, and if anything is sticking out. You never want to see your hands going inside your body or clothing.

Okay. This is basically a complete and utter first for me but I hope that it’s well received by the masses. Let me just say doing this was a bit tougher than I thought it would be but I persevered and rocked these outfits out! So you may be thinking what in the world I’m talking about so let me just clarify. I created my first male avatar for blogging on male outfits and articles. Now I should have probably created an entirely new and different account with a male name instead of using my main account. This would’ve saved me a lot of time and prevented a ton of questions from random people as I went on the Just for guys hunt. I have to say that it was entertaining to see what others said when they saw my avatar. I’m told by my female friends I’m a lot hotter as a male than a female but I’ll let you all be the judge since I’m really much too fond of my female avatar and self to change to a male. [Laughs]

Now as I was saying before I began to digress on my new part time, semi look, I joined the Just for the guys hunt since it promised to have some really nice and high quality things for the guys. I never realized how difficult it was to shop for a man so I have to say that all the male models out there have my utmost respect for you and what you do. But below you will see a few of the items I managed to snap up during my little foraging and explorations and I really hope that all of you enjoy it. It took some time and effort- especially trying to get all those hints- but I am really happy with my findings. Enjoy! If you would like to join the Just for the Guys Hunt, click the Link for the locations and hints.

Skin: Muism – Xavier Wounded (Group Gift)

Hair: Truth – Jared- Dark Brown

Shoes: So Real - Adidas

Accessories (necklace, earrings, bracelet, lip peircing, & Belt): Twisted & Spoiled

First Outfit

Shirt: Vextra Messing Fashion – JFTG Tee ~Kisses

Pants: Fluid Designs – ..::macho::..Black Jean

Second Outfit

Wilson’s High Waist Stone washed blue jeans & Tan sheer shirt

Third Outfit:

WoE Wearhouse Jeans & Kyle Light Grey Tank

Recently I was invited to an awesome trip and party with a group of really great gal pals for a holiday party and I had a blast! As we go through our daily lives the holidays creep ever closer before it gets ready to pounce and there are many things that come to mind when you think of the winter holidays such as food, friends, family, wine, resolutions, gifts, parties, and all the fabulous new clothes that come with a new season! If you’re of the more childish inclined you will probably end up dressed as santa’s helper just to get a chuckle or two- those pointed shoes only come in style once a year after all so why not take full advantage of them?!

But I’m not here to talk about my fetish for Christmas apparel but more to talk about this wonderful little number from Modern Gypsy that brought to mind the holiday spirit but with a touch of glamor and chicness that I just couldn’t pass up on. The texture of the dress is a ruffled chiffon that surprisingly does not make you look shapeless but hugs your body so lovingly with the help of the cinched thick waistline integrated in the dress. The gold brings to mind the starry night sky and festive colors of the new years parties or fully decorated Christmas trees that shine as bright as the sun. I decided to go all out with the gold and got a pair of Gold pumps from Armidi and a wonderfully crafted large garnet necklace that might as well have been designed just for that dress. Definitely a look that one should have in their closets to get ready for all those holiday shindigs. Do you think you can honestly resist such a luscious design?!

Skin: Dangerous Lace – Au Naturale Skin – Tan [Smokey2]

Hair: Bishwear – Benecia – Raven

Jewelry: Paper Couture – Faceted Dark Garnet Necklace

Dress: Modern Gypsy - Heart of Gold

Shoes: Armidi – Dalia Gold Pump

Well yesterday you heard of my harrowing tale with those women that could model for women on steroids but today I wanted to talk about another journey I had while visiting zombieland. Well it’s not really zombieland as one would know it but it certainly was an interesting vacation that’s for sure. As you can see by my pictures, it’s taking me a while to heal from the wounds and so have been out of commission on any modeling jobs or fashion shows. [sniffles sadly as she thinks about her dwindling career before squealing as one of her eyeballs pop out and hang down her face. She starts emitting tiny squeaks and chants of "ew", "gross", and "oh my god!" as she valiantly tries to stuff it back in the socket without getting too much eyeball juice on her fingers.]

Okay…well…it seems that you are all lucky enough to see me in a new light! But as I was saying I had gotten an invitation to check out Bailers Outfitters and their new Halloween attraction. They promised that it would be scary beyond belief and to bring a few of my friends in case I passed out from the shock. Needless to say I’m one that likes to live dangerously and decided to brave the untested waters and haunted lands by my lonesome and I’m glad to say that I’m still standing. It seems when you first teleport in you end up at the mainstore and will have to walk down the stairs to the UFO sighting to get to the truly spooky part of the attraction. Beware of that staircase! That fall could be a killer! Fortunately I had duct tape and reinforced staples holding me together so I didn’t have to worry overmuch. [Grins]

There were a few people shrieking and crying as the zombies chased them around the graveyard. It seems looking like Freddy Krugar’s construction paper project can open a lot of doors for you and keep your butt alive in some pretty sticky situations! It seemed like my look became my automatic pass and I was taking full advantage of it, sitting down at the local Bait & Burgers shop as I watched the ghosts and ghoulies scare the residents. I have to say that despite the disgusting and misleading name they had some awesome rare meat which is something I normally stay away from considering the calories but as I said- I like to live dangerously!

Now even looking like death personified I had to dress up for the occassion and what better way than to go through my gothic dresses and outfits. This is one of those times of the year that you get to go all out and pretty is just overrated and disdained. It’s time for the ugly ducklings to take back their crown for one week of the year and rock it out! The outfit I decided to don tonight was a cute little sassy number by She Wants Revenge. I will note that there have been a few rumors about this particular designer but as I do not have all the facts I’m not going to be one to speculate and instead just enjoy! I think the red of the dress really brought out the blood seeping from my stitched wounds don’t you? [smiles sweetly]

Be sure to join the Starwalkers and Best of SL groups for more information on upcoming attractions for the coming Halloween night. It’s a great way to get out with your friends and enjoy all the scary ghoulies!

[Gasps and grunts as she falls on the computer to begin typing, frowning at her pinky hanging by a piece of bone before picking up a nearby stapler and placing it back on. She gives her hand a flex before descending on her poor computer, pounding on the keys hard and fast.] I knew this day would come! I hoped it wouldn’t but I knew it would and silly me they caught me off guard to in the back room after one of my fashion shows. [Shakes her head in disgust] Let me start from the beginning my dear friends and readers. I was just finishing up with a Halloween fashion show when three burly, hairy fat models- yes those witches were as big as my condominium- if I had a condo that is! [Harumphs in satisfaction at the dig and continues] Let me also add they had huge hips that it was a wonder they could make it through the door of the auditorium!

Now as I was saying. These….*bleepin bleeps* (I’m sure kid avi’s probably read this ya know…) dragged me behind the bushes after everyone had left the stadium and proceeded to hold me down- I think one of them actually sat on me with her buick hips but I was having the air crushed from my delicate lungs so I really couldn’t say for sure- and they began to argue on what to do about me. I gleaned a few tidbits as I was huffing and puffing for precious gasps of air. These Bitc…..*bleeps* were jealous! I know what you’re thinking! It’s crazy! [glares at the reader] You do NOT have to agree so readily ya know! But they were jealous of little old humble and sweet me! Now I know I’m a fine specimen and many may be envious of me in some ways but that does not mean that it calls for what they did to me. I won’t go into the gory details so much but I will say that it involved a box cutter, salad fork, two AA batteries, a wedge lime, and a small skinny and long legged rat…On second thought it may have been a chihuahua- I’m beginning to think one of these *bleepity bleeps* was Paris Hilton but don’t quote me on that. As I was said earlier I was running on precious little air supply.

So after they finished their nefarious actions and the skinny rat thing finished humping my foot they left me for dead, never even suspecting that I would survive but look at me now you *bleepers*! I was lucky they had a roller cart nearby- those big rolling carts that you can find at Home depot when you’re been so greedy on your shopping spree that not even a normal shopping cart can hold your crap. After gather my bits and pieces on it I began to roll and push myself to the nearest hospital- 10 miles away!! The doctors looked at me like I was a freak- actually what they really did was laugh when I said I needed to be stitched up again because they thought I was playing some Halloween joke but after beating him and the nurse over the head with with my bloody stump of a leg they finally took me seriously and dragged me to the ER. I have no idea how someone in a few pieces could be playing a joke!

Now after I skipped out on my hospital bill- who would’ve thought 10 yards of string and a needle could cost so much- I had to run to a shop to get some clothes and was lucky enough to get out with this little number! Yes I stole it! (Not really. I couldn’t hobble fast enough and so got caught by the security guard and had to pay him with my last few bills that was stuck in my hair) And now here I am, telling you about my gruesome little story and I pray that those heffers don’t meet up with me one day. Watch out Paris! But it just goes to show you even that couldn’t stop me from rocking this outfit, a cute little number called Charm from the Wishbox along with my gorgeous updo from red Queen.

Happy Halloween!

Dress: Wishbox – Charm Dress – Black
Skin: Nikita Fride – Mazscara cherry lips – Pale
Eyelashes: Nikita Fride – Long Eyelashes Double Flowers
Hair: red Queen – Fay – Onyx

Everyone who is anyone has heard those words that make every female light up with shopping lust and men just sigh and light up with plain old lust. [laughs] I recently won a contest and received a gift card and couldn’t wait to use it! Unfortunately I could only afford one outfit- I know, such injustice! I was standing in that store for over an hour switching my cam between every item about to blow up from the overload of all the beautiful lingerie lining the walls but gladly for me I made it out of the store alive and with a wonderful purchase that I’m ecstatic to share with everyone tonight. Blacklace’s Red Satin & Lace Diva set caught my eye almost immediately when I saw it. After much debate I knew that I just couldn’t pass up such a juicy morsel.

I absolutely adore red. Something about the passion and heated emotions that it brings out in me just draws me right in and I would have an entire wardrobe in nothing but red if it didn’t send me to the nut house! [Grins]

It took me a bit of shopping on Xstreet but I finally found a set of pearls [Black Knotted & Long beads necklace] that fit my style and the look I had been aiming for perfectly. It gave a bit of class and sophistication with such a sensual and luscious outfit. The cincher of the outfit hugged my curves so lovingly and set off my figure to perfection, outlining it well. I completed the look with a pair of earrings [Timeless Pear Earrings] from Earthstones Jewelry. It was so difficult to just choose one piece of jewelry for this particular set because there are so many possibilities that can be reached. A nice pearl choker with long hair over the shoulder or a beautifully crafted updo can make it equally luxurious. I chose a short cut for my hair style to show off the beautiful pearls adorning my ears.

Lingerie is something that we all overlook sometimes in SL I believe, especially if one might be single such as myself. You ask yourself, what’s the point if you don’t intend to ever really do anything or have no plans to do so? And unlike in real it’s hardly ever possible to wear such lingerie under our normal casual clothes or dresses so you can’t even brag [guess what I'm wearing underneath this dress!]. But it’s something that I believe should be used a lot more often, single or not! Heck walk around your apartment in lingerie if you want to get your money’s worth! But if you don’t have a great set in your inventory then I advise you to run- not walk- to your nearest boutique and get yourself some!