What Is Art? -- Featuring Evolve's 55L Thursday's Conceptual

Each of us express art in different ways. I remember in my Russian History class, one of many as I'm a passionate history lover and Russia and it's vast history fascinates me, a look at the art famous in Russia. One of the most famous pieces in the 20th century was painted by Kazimir Malevich. It was called "Black Square on a White Ground."

This artist blocked out a geometrically perfect square then painted it black on white canvas. This thing made the artist famous and earned him a substantial amount of money for 1915. I don't always know that I understand the nuances of art. I've learned that it is okay when I don't.

I know what I like. It speaks to me. I also know enough artists with so many different visions of their world, that I realize art reaches beyond cultural boundaries, across great distances and down through time. Every time someone creates a brand new texture, like the one on this dress Conceptual at Evolve (55L Thursday), we get to see art through their eyes.

Featuring Evolve Conceptual at 55L
Featuring Finesmith Gift
1. EMO-tions: Starline
2. Poetic Color: Hot Mocca
3. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Fantasia
4. Face Paint: Doe
5. Face Paint: Square Nails
6. Liv-Glam: Amelia
7. Chop Zuey: Hudson Lovers Bangles
8. {{BSD Design Studio}}: Supermodel Giuls

Sometimes I Just Go a Little Crazy -- Featuring SoliDea FoliEs

I've walked past SoliDea FoliEs many times, especially when I got to those micro sale locations like the Couturier Docks. This time, I was searching for an 'it' piece and strolled into the SoliDea FoliEs location at Zenshi.

I have found this designer to be out of my price range and to my surprise, there was a beautiful gift on one wall in the midst of all things red. I couldn't believe my luck. I have wanted to style something from this store for a long time now. I guess it was my lucky stars.

When a dream like this comes true, I have to go all out to share the outfit and the creator. I love the way this store never has 'normal'. Normal must exist, for our every day world, but abnormal makes our lives interesting. I saw this pretty little dress, a simple mini-skirt, but... there was so much more!

I played with it, and with the camera and lighting. I had a blast. I really didn't find the 'it' thing I was seeking yesterday, but I found this 'it' thing and IT made me smile and play and take risks and have fun from the beginning til I finally moved on to new projects.

Featuring SoliDea FoliEs Aliza in Red
1. EMO-tions: Aquaria
2. Poetic Color: Quicksilver
3. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Divina
4. Face Paint: Sinister
5. Finesmith: Silver French Nails
6. Mirror's Enigma: Superbia Tan Skintone
7. KL Couture: Opium Love Sandals
8. by Caryn: Tights
9. Taken on Location at Image Essentials

The Joy Of Living Life -- Featuring KL Couture

We all have those days we wish never happened. Sometimes it feels like weeks or months could go by and we wish we had a great big eraser, to make the past go away, or at least take away those memories we think we want to forget.

I choose to follow the optimist's point of view and way of life. I look for the gilded golden edges and brilliant silver linings. I believe without fail that something exists in everyone's life that makes them special in some way or another.

It begins with a strong passion for good things and the willpower to seek out all good things in even the most difficult moments. When that happens, it seems that though difficult moments still occur, I don't want to forget them because there is balance in my perception of the universe.

An ancient Chinese symbol exhibits this, the Yin and Yang. In all that is light and good in the world, drops of dark and evil exist and reciprocally, in all that is dark and evil in the world, drops of light exist. Even if those drops are the tiniest possible, I still need them.

Perhaps my way of blogging reflects that need to find good in everyone and everything. I choose to present what I find good in everything I gratefully receive. I style to the best of my ability, then take the best shots I know how to take and write about this or that.

Today, I'm wearing KL Couture, an outfit with jewelry included and a pair of gold sandals from them as well. Though I know that all that glitters is not gold, I still look for things that shine.

Featuring KL Couture Kora Mesh Dress
Featuring KL Couture Opium Luxe Sandals
1. Poetic Color: Oriental Pearl
2. Calico Ingmann: April
3. Face Paint: Silver and Gold
4. Candy Nail: Harvest Beige
5. Mirror's Enigma: Croix Light Skintone
6. Chop Zuey: Fashion for Life Set
      - with jewelry from KL Couture Kora Dress
   7. - with jewelry from KL Couture Kora Dress - EMO-tions: Karen

A Long Time Ago, In a Galaxy Far, Far Away... Featuring {{BSD Design Studio}} and Evolve

Long ago, when the land on Second Life was still very young, new designers were rare, and new ideas were abundant. In those days, I realized I could create my own outfits for less than I could spend on buying them, and most of the time do equally as well or better. It gave me a sense of confidence to wear what I'd made and even more so when someone complimented me on the work.

I needed new challenges and the face of Second Life was evolving so I got out of the clothes making business, but I still have fond memories of making art into something viable to sell in a virtual world. I also know how much time I had to invest in this to make it profitable. To this day, whether I'm looking at new gown or a new building or some new unique idea like breedable shoes, I remember these early days and find myself in awe of all that has come since.

I wish I could show you a photo of the first shoes I owned. I'm fairly sure they were hand painted onto the sliders, with a heel that was chunky like a really badly constructed Go-Go boot. It was what it was, and much of the time, it wasn't pretty. Now a designer like BabySass Champagne painstakingly works in one program to create a shape for every piece of shoe she combines to make unique, one of a kind, original mesh shoes, boots and hand bags. It's like comparing a sand castle to the Notre Dame Cathedral. Yes, she's that good! The Marie Soleil in red shown above are just the most recent example of her artistry.

Sometimes I feel like I'm taking advantage of these amazing creators. I don't import Linden into the game, so everything I spend I have to make first doing this or that in the program. When someone is kind enough to let me blog for them, I just find myself overwhelmed with gratitude. I remember tears in my eyes, just that misty happiness, when {{BSD Design Studio}} designer BabySass let me come to work with her. I do write, and blog and use her shoes in any setting possible to advertise but I know how much work it takes. I would say thank you a thousand times if it would help. Each of the designers who've given me time, products and the ability to wear some of the prettiest, classiest items ever make me smile.

Featuring {{BSD Design Studio}} Supermodel Marie Soleil White and Red
Featuring Evolve Fleur Dress
1. Poetic Color: Oriental Pearl
2. Gaeline Mesh Eyelashes: Mysteria
3. Face Paint: Come Along
4. Candy Nail: Hibiscus Bracelet
5. Candy Nail: Tea Time Nails
6. Mirror's Enigma: Azuka Light Skintone
7. [elika]: Breathe
8. Taken on site at Model's Workshop

Totally Out of Character For Me... Featuring {{BSD Design Studio}}, KL Couture and [[Masoom]]

Sometimes I end up with a collection of items that are really not Caryn-ish to me, but I like to challenge myself as well as honor the designers who are so thoughtfully sharing their designs with me to blog. Even when they're not my first choice in design, it's okay because they still have value.

This styling this evening made me stretch myself as I paired an off the shoulder crop top from [[Masoom]] with a pair of hot pants from KL Couture and completed the look with a stunning pair of sandal heels from {{BSD Design Studio}}. It's a lot of sassy. Attitude seethes from the overall effect of the look.

To me, it has the energy of "I dare you to ask me to dance." A throaty growl that pierces through the noises of a club with a passion and aggression that's far more feisty than my Caryn usually gets. We all have our moments though, don't we? It's a good thing our personalities are diverse.

And when I zoomed the camera lens in close, where you can look into my eyes, the same softly spoken gentle woman looks back to you. It's interesting to me that depending on perspective, I can look saucy and swagger through a room, and in another second, perhaps pulled close in a twirl on a dance floor, the woman looking back to you continues to exude all the elements of me.

Featuring {{BSD Design Studio}} Super Model Marie Soleil
Featuring [[Masoom]] Mishti Top
Featuring KL Couture Melly Hot Pants
1. Poetic Color: Oriental Pearl
2. Truth: Pandora
3. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Fantasia
4. Face Paint: Nic Perfect Gloss
5. Sexy Mama Valentine Manicure
6. Laq: Tasha
7. Shakeup!: Fabric Flower Ring
8. Taken on site at Image Essentials

Glad To Know Glam Dreams Remains! Featuring Glam Dreams

In March, one of the most exciting things I've done as a model occurred. I was permitted to walk in the Model's Workshop Spring Show.

   

 I got to wear designers that I had never known, House of Elliot and Glam Dreams, and a familiar Snowpaws. Being introduced to Glam Dreams was a dream. Everything shown in that show was elegant and sexy. I oohed and ahhhed at the various looks friends got to wear and thrilled at the gown I was given.

    

 Now I find myself embracing the privilege of working with Glam Dreams once more, this time as a blogger. I saw notes go out early in the week two weeks ago that suggested Glam Dreams was closing its doors. I was disappointed!

    

Thankfully, I spoke to one of the store managers who is also a good friend and I learned that only the main location has closed and satellite stores still offer this same beautiful quality that I'd discovered in March. This Butterflies Gown reminds me of why I enjoyed Glam Dreams so much and how much I look forward to new looks as they are revealed.

Featuring Glam Dreams Butterflies Gown
1. Poetic Color: Oriental Pearl
2. Truth: Kami
3. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Starlia
4. Mirror's Enigma: Vanity
5. D.D.M. Designs: The Bold Collection
6. Felicity: Gianna Stilettos Slate Blue
7. Purple Moon: Spanish Lady Gown Belt
8. Face Paint: Perfect Lip & Liner
9. Manifeste Poses

Looking Forward in Time... Featuring Luziefee at Love Donna Flora Event

I've been thinking a lot about time zones and people across the world. I've had the joy of working with and playing with people everywhere, from China to Australia, from Denmark to Canada and people who almost lived in my backyard. I think it's incredibly good to know that I get to interact with many cultures as I cross time zones and learn and absorb and appreciate people. Recently, I've gotten attached a bit to a man who's from Denmark. It's a great new place in the world to study!

For me, autumn remains a long way off in the future. I live in the South and seasons are a little weird at best. Sometimes it's nearly the holidays before it's chilled enough to pull out favorite sweaters and scarfs. Other places I've lived, like Massachussetts, had the tiniest short little summer and then it was time to get cold again, and when I say cold I mean C-O-L-D! Today though, as I took this photo, I realized that in other parts of the world, at this very moment, it IS autumn.

I can't travel around the world like I wish I could. I do find great satisfaction when I study about other places in the world, about special dishes only served in Denmark and remember that while it's nearing 100 degrees in the shade in teeny tiny-ville SC, south of the equator, their seasons are exactly opposite mine, and when I close my eyes, then focus on this wonderful creation Luziefee put together for the Love Donna Flora Event, I can see myself in those cooler climates, dancing in the falling leaves.

Featuring Luziefee Vera Outfit for Love Donna Flora
1. Poetic Color: Autumn Colors - Storm
2. Truth: Becky
3. Gaeline Mesh Lashes Fantasia
4. Face Paint: Come Along
5. Quintessecia: 17 Nails
6. 7 Deadly S{k}ins: Vanity
7. Taken at Image Essentials using Demise of Flight Poses

**I really can't say enough about the ladies who own and manage Image Essentials. Kay Weston, Ally Dwyer and Nikki Demarazi. They do so much for others, out of their own pocket, and their space and place continues to evolve, with time and energy and love. I love how the settings around the sim change a little bit here, a little bit there, and every change ends up blessing everyone who visits, takes photos there, and just hangs out in their group. Thank you, Ladies. You guys rock.

Featuring Luziefee Vera Outfit for Love Donna Flora
1. Poetic Color: Autumn Colors - Storm
2. Truth: Becky
3. Gaeline Mesh Lashes Fantasia
4. Face Paint: Come Along
5. Quintessecia: 17 Nails
6. 7 Deadly S{k}ins: Vanity
7. Taken at Image Essentials using Demise of Flight Poses

From the Newsroom -- Featuring KL Couture, {{BSD Design Studio}} and Face Paint

I like the show, "Newsroom" because it takes us on a fictional journey with real facts. The people in the story itself, Will McEvoy and others don't actually exist, but the coverage of the news that they explore really happened. Sometimes maybe it helps to reflect back on news in a way that fictionalizes the parties responsible for reporting it, and focuses only on the information itself. Though it's hard to remove a personal opinion from news, maybe it's a little bit easier with what we call 20.20 hindsight.

Things online happen rapidly. Time passes at a speed that illogically seems to move faster than the same type of interaction were it to happen off line. To gather details and news about any activity in virtual space must then also be done rapidly or the moment is lost altogether. Even with 20.20 hindsight, in our virtual world, we're spinning so quickly, dissemination of the news and details of fact vs. fiction continue to challenge us.

It's hard to know how much really happens and how much hearsay we 'hear' in our daily trek through the virtual world we share in Second Life. One day you're in and the next day you're out, to borrow a line from another television program. It's true too. Sometimes we're judged by a panel of our peers for incidents that never even happened and other times we get away with things that no one should overlook because the details came and went so quickly, no one had time to notice.

I try not to get swept up in the massive dialogue of information, especially that which seeks to harm more than anything else. It's a real choice I make, and for good reason. Absorbing all that is negative harms. I don't have a way to verify facts like the fictional cast of Newsroom. I have my own eyes and ears and I have a virtual world swooshing past me. I do the best to filter and make my own opinions. I know it's all I can do, given this setting. I hope you make time to do the same.

Featuring {{BSD Design Studio}} Urban Chic Model Bag Grey
Featuring KL Couture Estelle Mesh Cocktail Dress Water
Featuring Face Paint 2nd Birthday Group Gift Faded
1. Poetic Color: Autumn Colors - Storm
2. Amacci Hair: Silvia
3. Face Paint: Perfect Lip & Liner 3
4. Shiva: Riria
5. EMO-tions: Endless Love Set
6. Pose built in to {{BSD Design Studio}} Bag

Another One, Paying It Forward -- Featuring [[Masoom]] and Face Paint

I'm sure the movie with Helen Hunt and Kevin Spacey that introduced the idea of Pay It Forward to a Hollywood audience  was not the first time this idea had been explained or its origination. However, it was the first time I ever knew of the concept. Ever since I saw that movie, and if you haven't seen it, you might put it on your popcorn and rent it list, I have firmly believed in the basic concept. People all along my journey through life have given me something special of themselves at a moment I needed it most. Some happened so long ago, it would be nearly impossible to track them down.

I think the concept them of paying someone back could be faulty even with the best intentions, but paying it forward works every time. Whether it is something special someone did at a time when I could not do for myself or someone letting me live with them for a while when I needed to figure out my life's direction, I was not wise or mature or able to keep track of these things. Now as an adult who's spent more than forty years on our great planet, I see those things in my past and I really do wish I could contact some of those people. I have to hold on to the truth of paying it forward and know that if I touch someone's life now, maybe one day, they will pass it on...

I'd like to think most of my motives were balanced, so that I take care of self but I also take care of others now. When I know someone is in need, I do try to reach out and do whatever my strength and my body can handle. In our Second Life, we're presented many different opportunities to help strangers and SL-friends alike. The recent news of Squinternet Larnia sparked a wave of attention aimed in her direction, in hopes to encourage her, and the business she runs. [[Masoom]] created this elegant dress Lilith as a way to pay it forward, to encourage Squinternet and to help with the Love Donna Flora Event. I also reminisce every time I wear Face Paint and new releases from Eve Express because she poured her life into mine so that I could learn. Many people banding together to help one makes a world of difference, and for me, I'm glad to be a part of that world.

Featuring Face Paint Perfect Lip & Liner 1
Featuring [[Masoom]] Lilith (part of the contribution to the Love Donna Flora event)
1. Poetic Color: Autum Colors Storm
2. MADesigns HAIR: Demi
3. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Divinia
4. Noya: Golden Scuplted Nails
5. Noya: Chrystal (skin)
6. ::Purple Moon:: Cubics II Set dans la Chocolaterie
7. Taken on location at Image Essentials

From Little Bo Peep To a Party Because She Found Them -- Featuring [[Masoom]], Evolve and Luziefee

When I styled for this blog, I couldn't help but think of the resemblance I had to the children's story rhyme I knew from bygone days. I didn't have a staff, but I did find my trusty umbrella. I would hate to get that pretty frock wet!

Luziefee has this dress out for the Love Donna Flora event and it's precious. I loved the innocence of the look, and the emotion it evokes as a result. Maybe we all need to reflect back on more innocent days now and then, and visit that little girl inside ourselves when we do.

The styling for this dress "Fine Day" is almost all Luziefee too. An entire outfit comes with this, from the hat to the gloves with sculpted sleeves to the little heels. It's lively and with the muted color scheme of cadet blue and cream, I know I can enjoy styling pieces of it later with new looks.

[[Masoom]] actually put this gown out a while ago, but there's a fun story attached to this styling, so I included it in my blog for tonight. During the day, any given day, I never know what people will ask or share or say in IM or in a group. Two days ago, I responded to a 'Help Need Audience' plea that came in a conference.

I changed immediately, to suit the colors of the video, then magically swooshed through the air to this beautiful place set up for a wedding. I had no idea it was a wedding when I answered the call but loved being there. Once it was done, I took a shot up close to add to my little batch of possible head shots I might use in a contest.

Evolve has this sweet little dress Valenteen on sale this coming weekend for the 60L Sale event. It's one of those rich warm colors that almost any shade of skin can wear, and sleek and easy to wear for all sorts of occasions. I've noticed so many designers preparing for fall, on and off line, and that monochromatic look will go with all of us from summer to autumn. If the first outfit resembles a childhood memory, this from Evolve is the little girl all grown up and ready to celebrate. She found her sheep. It's as good a reason as any to Party!

Featuring Luziefee Fine Day (Part of the Love Donna Flora Event)
Featuring Noya Chrystal Platinum Female Model
1. Poetic Color: Quicksilver
2. Amacci Hair: Celine
3. Misnomer Jones: Silver Black Bead Earrings
4. {what next}: Rainy Day Pose Umbrella (2 poses used)

1. EMO-tions: Ellendir
2. Poetic Colors: Autumn Colors, storm
3. Noya: Chrystal
4. Finesmith: O-Earrings
5. [[Masoom]]: Helen
6. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Starlia
7. Face Paint: Red Lip Gloss

Featuring Evolve Valenteen 3
1. Poetic Colors: Autumn Colors, Storm
2. EMO-tions: Ellendir
3. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Fantasia
4. Face Paint: Metallic Blue Liner and Lash
5. Sexy Mama's Prim Nails
6. Glam Affair Skin: Amberly
7. Chop Zuey: Joy Abounds Necklace
8. Chop Zuey: Love's Coming Earrings
9. Vendome: Hair Brooch
10. N-Core: Coquette
11. Taken on site at Image Essentials

News Flash: Remember This Is Supposed To Be FUN!!

I don't know about each of you out there across the world, but I spend a lot of time online. I have my reasons and everyone else has theirs. We turn to the world online for many reasons: company, intrigue, relationships, games, interaction and so much more. I come online to feel the world around me at my fingertips.

My Second Life fulfills me and makes me smile. I enjoy the challenge of business and the business of pleasure. I like connecting to all sorts of people in all sorts of corners of the world. Some of the modeling groups I watch have a lively banter from time to time, and it only adds to the joy of belonging to that group.

Last night, one of those groups was actively jabbering about this and that, and one of the members mentioned having a gift but it was only for naughty girls. I said, "I can be naughty!" Though I think there were a few scoffs. If people only knew how naughty, but never mind. I like that you think I'm pure. That's what the name Caryn means. Pure!

This little gift arrived in my inbox and I opened it to find this enormous afro. I loved it. It reminded me of things in my childhood. I was age 2-11 in the 1970's so I experienced big hair and bell bottom pants from a little girl's point of view. And the hair did look BIGGG to me, and other things were so sparkly, so loud, so vivid. I was so thankful for the gift. It made me laugh.

My friends and acquaintances share different difficult stories with me regarding the effort and energy they devote to Second Life.  Only one person can win a contest, so that leaves 30 or 100 who did not win. The gift of hair, a gift meant to inspire humor, made me laugh and reminded me that this thing we all do in Second Life is supposed to be fun. If you put this much of your heart and life into something, I encourage you to remember to laugh sometimes and have fun.

Featured KL Couture Opium Luxe Sandals Silver For Shoe Fair
Featured Zanze Larissa
Special and fun feature - BeReal - a gift for 'naughty girls' - or so they said!!
1. Poetic Color: Hot Mocca
2. WoW: Diva Lashes
3. Face Paint: Sunkissed
4. Pulcino: Joulutorttu
5. Liv-Glam: Amelie Bronze
6. Soo*FooL Maum Set

7. Taken on location at Image Essentials

A Good Heart

I think it could get easy to get overwhelmed by the number of people who ask for help in our world. I receive calls all the time through the year because I choose to donate to agencies like St. John's Children Hospital at Christmas in lieu of gifts to extended family. I choose when I want to give, but once they are aware that someone with a charitable heart lives at an address with a phone number, this information becomes public knowledge. And I get it. I know that finding financial support for any venture takes a lot of time and a lot of patience.

One way we reach beyond our basic virtual world of Second Life includes charitable activities. I've participated in fund raising for Cancer Research, ALS and Hope for Emilia to name just a few. Additionally, I've seen how our fraternity works together in unity to help those who have invested something special in our Second Life and suddenly realize their world is crumbling.

It might look like a set from Christmas in July. I found my neighbor's property had some of the most gorgeous settings around the large area of land he/she owns. Yes, this is physical proof of me trespassing. Oops! I couldn't stay away of the beautiful winter and holiday themed area though. And as I started thinking about the Donna Flora event, I was thinking that what each designer and friend does to help will feel like Christmas to Squinternet Larnia.

I don't know much about her. I don't need to know though. I don't think she expected an outpouring of hope and care like this. It must feel like Christmas, knowing that friends and co-workers are putting together this large event in her name and giving her proceeds to help her in her life off line. It may not be that time of year, but it's a beautiful thing to do and reminds me of that time of year. This elegant fur over a long formal gown comes from Luziefee and it's one of her contributions to the fundraiser which officially begins July 21.

Featuring Luziefee Dyani
 ---- at the Love Donna Flora Event, Begins July 21!
1. Poetic Color: Oriental Pearl
2. Truth: Brandi
3. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Divina
4. Face Paint: Trinity
5. Mirror's Enigma: Nixie Light Skintone
6. ::Duh!:: Little Leather Clutch
7. MiWardrobe: Horns Earrings

8. N-Core: Casting

It's a New Dawn... It's a New Day... -- Featuring KL Couture

One of my favorite things to follow on Second Life is the growth of a new business, whether it be clothing or club or something else. I joined Second Life in 2005 and at the time, there were maybe 20 or 25 active groups. It was mostly 'mainland' and people congregated on a few properties to get to know one another. Now it's super sized, and diverse and we have gazillions of group choices and so much more of everything.

Recently, I also discovered a whole new place to congregate when I made a Facebook account. I joined as Caryn Ashdene, and made friends and connections with many people in this fashion industry and LOVE keeping up with things there as well as in world. The other day, I saw an add for 'Serious People' needed for a business I had not yet known. I spoke to the owner, applied to blog and realized she really did have a very new business. It's a great!!! start to a new business too. They celebrated the first 500 members recently with the release of this black gown. There are gowns, casual items, shoes and swimwear as well as other pieces that accessorize your Second Life. If you have not been to visit, I encourage you to go. Join the group. It's free, and the gifts are super.

Featuring KL Couture Casino Royale (A 500 Member Group Gift)
1. Poetic Color: Autumn Colors - Storm
2. Truth: Kalia
3. Miamai: Catwalk Lashes Pink
4. Face Paint: After Hours
5. Sexy Mama Valentine Manicure
6. Mirror's Enigma: Nixie Light Skintone
7. N-Core: Caprice - Champagne

8. Taken on location at KL Couture

The Unexpected Act of Kindness -- Featuring Evolve 55L Thursday Deal

We all work in situations where we learn the patterns and daily drill of whatever it is we're invested in, work or play, people or art. The probability of patterns repeating encourage us in a way that psychologically, we may not even realize. That dependable thing though gives us stability and comfort and feed our most basic needs.

When we add new things, or meet new people, or any other first time activity, we have little ability to predict what will happen. It's logical to attach some similar thoughts to similar behaviors, so when I add new designers to my blog, I have some idea what to expect because I've worked with other designers. However, I do have to learn the new designer's personal tastes and ways so that I find balance and make myself the most useful.

This past week, Evolve added me to their blogger list. I was thrilled. When I began blogging over a year ago, I worked really hard to find designers who would work with first time bloggers and for those who helped along the way, I will be ever grateful. Some businesses however, seemed so far removed from something I'd ever earn the privilege of doing. Acceptance as a blogger for this company was one of those impossibilities in my thoughts.

Yesterday, the artistic creator behind the scenes at Evolve contacted all her bloggers and did something so unbelievably kind and unexpected that I sat in silent awe and thanksgiving. I know she's a gifted designer. I knew she had earned her reputation through hard work which I admire. I did not know her personally and so I did not know her personality. This unexpected act of kindness opened my eyes to know her a little better, and I hope to share with those who read my blog and follow my Facebook and Flickr - Reign Congrejo goes beyond the standard, and touches lives in a real and personal way.

Thank you, Ms. Reign, from the depth of my heart.

Featuring Evolve Fantasy 3
1. EMO-tions: Lissi
2. Poetic Color: Oriental Pearl
3. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Fantasia
4. Face Paint: Sophisticates
5. Candy Nail: Harvest Beige
6. Mirror's Enigma: Nixie Light Skintone
7. N@N@: Gold Heart Bangle
8 HollyWeird: Harmony Necklace
9. Felicity: Harlow Stilettos
10. [LAP] Poses

11. Taken on location at Image Essentials

Trying On Different Hats -- Featuring Dot-Be Fashion, {{BSD Design Studio}} and Chop Zuey

The world online exposes us to so many options that might otherwise never exist in our life off line. For some, it is because they live in a rural part of the world that simply does not have an array of entertainment options and for others, like me, their health does not permit outings and experiences that look and sound enticing.

I've played a little bit of every character in Second Life and explored it since March of 2005 when my first Caryn character entered this virtual world of many opportunities, and many hats. One day I was an official Second Life Mentor, the next I was helping to manage an island called Nage Prime. Each time I tried something new, it reminded me of the saying about trying on different hats.

In the southern region of the United States (and likely other places as well) when someone is graduating high school or college, they're often encouraged to try on different hats until they find the most fitting career choice. I put on {{BSD Design Studio}}'s hat, sold at the Hair Fair right now, and realized this new look with Dot-Be Fashion's very casual top and the accessories including one of Chop Zuey's always amazing and generous gifts created an image that was very new to me. I ended up trying on a new hat, both figuratively and literally.

Featuring Dot-Be Fashion Unisex Rolled Sleeve Shirt
Featuring Chop Zuey Spangles Ring
Featuring {{BSD Design Studio}} Bandana from Hair Fair
1. EMO-tions: Anna
2. Poetic Color: Autum Colors - Storm
3. Face Paint: Marie
4. Pulcino Nails: Reyukken
5. Mirror's Enigma: Nixie Light Skintone
6. Ben's Beauty: Always Earrings
7. Miamai: Pink Catwalk Lashes

8. Boho HoBo: Bohemian Punk Mesh Jeans

Seeing Life From Different Perspectives -- Featuring Evolve and KL Couture

One of the things they teach us when we attend modeling classes relates to prim and prim placement. Before I ever tried my hand at modeling, I liked what looked good but I did not analyze the things I chose to wear, or worry about how they fit on my shape or any other thing really.

Once I learn about something that's detail oriented, I find myself far more attentive to that thing, and in this case, I became more and more obsessed with having the prims placed at the right spot on the body so the movement works naturally and the outfit is portrayed as well as I know how to make it.

And the thing is, no matter which way our body moves, this detail still remains important. I never thought about how many wardrobe items broke the laws of physics in Second Life. Now, when I prepare for a new look, I spin around, looking at the outfit from many different angles, until I'm sure I have the right perspective.

No matter which way I turn with this Glamorous Red Gown, the dress looks appealing, formal, yet sexy with a tempting tease of flesh under which only a bit of fabric wraps the top part of my body like a ribbon on a package to open. When I walk, it moves around me, swishing secrets, and showcasing the artist who created the gown at Evolve.

When I look at Second Life fashion, I'm always impressed by how many interpretations of a concept there can be on any given topic. This dress also flows smoothly with a whisper of soft cloth moving, but this one reveals even more skin, leaving the left leg bare and more of the upper body bare as well. This Aurore Gown from KL Couture evokes a completely different energy than the other, and that's a wonderful thing. We all want to have lively fun clothing to wear, things to showcase our perspective on any given day, and something that speaks nonverbally to anyone around us. 

Featuring Evolve SG Glamourouslife Red
1. Poetic Colors: Oriental Pearl
2. Truth: Eden
3. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Starlia
4. Face Paint: Aphrodite
5. Finesmith: French Sky Nails
6. Mirror's Enigma: Nixie Light Skintone
7. Bracelet with bells (creator no longer in world)
8. Chop Zuey: Love Struck White Gold
9. Miamai Poses and [LAP] Poses

Featuring KL Couture Aurore Gown (July Group Gift)
1. EMO-tions: Cheyenne
2. Poetic Colors: Autumn Colors - Storm
3. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Starlia
4. Face Paint: Eartha
5. Candy Nail: Resort Sunset
6. Mirror's Enigma: Nixie Light Skintone
7. Face Paint Jewelry: Gold and Copper Bangles
8. EMO-tions: Orion Set

9. {{BSD Design Studio}}: Fierce Grey

A Simpler Life -- Featuring Zanze

I find some of the most beautiful gardens as I traverse Second Life. It doesn't matter who sponsors the land, adding flora only increases the appeal of the property. One of my favorite places to go and daydream continues to operate after many years. At one point I think Julia Hathor had 5 sims. Now I believe she's pared it down to three. Each time I go to one of them, in this case Serenity Falls, I fall in love with the place all over again.

I wore this dress Shauna from Zanze and felt like I fit right in to the flower garden around me. The pattern of this particular Shauna option - called Morning Glory - seemed as if it could be planted into the ground to sprout more and more beauty. It never fails. Zzoiee Zee continuously improves her craft, a sleek and refined beauty with all her heart poured in to every piece, and this dress another example of her fantastic skills.

Featuring Zanze Shauna
1. [noname]: Beaded Flat Sandals
2. Chop Zuey: Tabula Rasa Set
3. Mirror's Enigma: Nixie Light Skintone
4. Face Paint: Sand and Sun
5. Face Paint: Classic Square Nails
6. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Divina
7. Truth: Eden
8. Adorkable Poses

9. Shot on location at Creative Fantasy Home & Garden

I Can See Clearly Now -- Featuring Dot-Be Fashion, Zanze and {{BSD Design Studios}}

For the past ten years, I've operated Second Life on a setting that my computer could handle, but it was always on low graphics. Even when I upgraded about 4 years ago, it was still only able to handle minimal graphics. This meant that taking photos and blogging and all the things I learned to love in this fashion industry had to be done in very s-l-o-w motion in order to get most of the settings right.

Now, when I put together an outfit, and stand anywhere in Second Life, the world around me glistens, or snows or has some of these fantastic neon somethings that fly around for no reason other than they're beautiful. Who knew it was snowing on my little corner of land in Second Life? I didn't! (Me just standing on my land pondering...)

I learned how to get those unique light and shadow features to work together and what depth it adds. Again, it's likely a resounding Homer Simpson Doh! but it's what I worked with so long and this, they're infinitely different. I feel like I'm in a Claritin commercial, where I can see clearly now.

Whether I'm hanging out with friends in a casual chic outfit or really donning an avant garde look for something, the way it all works is really different. I have these two short dresses, the top one comes from Dot-Be Fashion and the bottom one comes from Zanze. They have good texture, good lines as always because they're designers who put a lot of effort into getting their product to look 'right'. I also put on another pair of the Giuls heels series from {{BSD Design Studio}} and enjoyed how much better they looked, and they were already tres bon. When I was able to style them in this new landscape of details, with light and shadow, I realized how much more incredible these designers take the cake.

Featuring {{BSD Design Studio}} Supermodel Giuls - Feather
Featuring Dot-Be Fashion Outfit Maru WhiteWhiteBlack
1. Truth: Becky
2. Poetic Colors: Quicksilver
3. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Divina
4. Face Paint: Audrey
5. Candy Nail: Resort Sunset
6. Vero Modero: Special Gift Skin
7. Chop Zuey: Venetian Honey Set

8. Pose Vista Animation

Second Photo (pieces that are different in the styling)
1. [chiczafari]: Rose (hair)
2. Chop Zuey: Windmills
3. Glam Affair Skin: Jadis
4. Face Paint: Metallics

Featuring Zanze Reese Dress
Featuring House of Knots Laum'e
Featuring Mirage by Face Paint (full body art)
1. Bax Prestige Boots Red Suede
2. Chop Zuey MVW Eilfu Black Set
3. Poetic Colors: Quicksilver
4. [elika]: Say
5. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Divina
6. Face Paint: Nail Art Prim Manicure
7. Glam Affair Skin: Jadis

Things That Just Fit Into Place -- Featuring Evolve, {{BSD}} Design Studio

Sometimes I love puzzles. I was the type of child who could fiddle for hours until I could solve how to get the little ball to the center of the toy by slowly and patiently tilting it this way and that. To this day, I can take the time, and enjoy the process of puzzles.

Featuring Evolve Shine - 9

Featuring {{BSD Design Studio}} Supermodel Giuls - Orange

N@N@: Earrings Gift

1. Poetic Colors: Autumn Colors Storm

2. [elika]: Breathe

3. Chop Zuey: Men's Necklace and Bracelet

4. Face Paint: Flora Eyes with #6 Lip Gloss

5. Face Paint: French Square Prim Manicure

6. Face Paint: Long Prim Eye Lashes Black

7. [:Mirror's Enigma:]: Nixie Light Skintone

So when I get an array of new items from multiple designers, it looks like my "Items to Blog" file suddenly becomes a puzzle I get to solve. I want to combine elements, create unique ways to wear them or simply display them in a manner that appeals to many in hopes that my photos and blog encourage you to try a new outfit from Evolve or Dot-Be Fashion or Luziefee, or maybe some terrific new shoes from {{BSD Design Studio}} and jewelry from one of my all time favorites Chop Zuey.

Featuring {{BSD Design Studio}} Supermodel Giuls - Black Triangle

Featuring Luziefee Agatha Black

Featuring Dot-Be Fashion Striped Special Pants

1. EMO-tions: Karen

2. Poetic Colors: Quicksilver

3. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Starlia

4. Face Paint: Blush Pink, Gem Eyes Grey, Glitter Lips Red

5. Candy Nail: Rosy Black

6. Glam Affair Skin

I can pull pieces together like this, where I have on a little bit of this and a little bit of that. Then other times, I receive entire outfits in one box. Shop and wear can be fun too, and if a designer throws a lot of options into the box, you don't have to ponder what goes with what.

Featuring Evolve Shine - 9

Featuring {{BSD Design Studio}} Supermodel Giuls - Orange

1. Poetic Colors: Autumn Colors Storm

2. EMO-tions: Chevia

3. Chop Zuey: Impossible Dream Hummingbird Set

4. Face Paint: Grace

5. Face Paint: French Square Prim Manicure

6. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Mysteria

7. [:Mirror's Enigma:]: Nixie Light Skintone

To me, both ways are enjoyable. Every now and then, I realize I have to be somewhere 5 minutes ago and I feverishly look for something stylish, chic and easy to wear. Other times I may sit and play with a look for hours, coming up with plausible options that differ slightly (like the top photo shown here today and the bottom one). It's a privilege to have the chance to do both, and something I never take for granted.