Joyeux Noel - Featuring Bee Designs

Christmas is right around the corner, and if you are anything like my family and I, you are NOT prepared and are still trying to find out where half the year has gone! Plans have been set and we will be going out of town for five days to spend time with my entire side of the family. Which means there will be eleven people under one roof, with three of them being 18,19 and 20 and wanting to be entertained! So movies, gaming and cards will be top on the priority list as well as watching football and EATING! We do a lot of that when we are all together, and I say "we" meaning I will be doing most of the cooking, so everyone can keep eating! LOL We are a loud, sometimes obnoxious, and a tad bit odd crew but it works, for the most part. With my mind turned towards the holidays and what we are doing, I was delighted to get to put together this adorable scene with new goodies from Bee Designs!

The build, the lights and all the little decor items are absolutely perfect and set the scene for an amazing holiday season, that can become your Christmas abode! And HURRY if you want to get your hands on these adorable new Teddy Bears, also from Bee Designs, before they run away from Cosmopolitan soon! All of the scene comes in Gachas, either at Shiny Shabby or Cosmopolitan, so make sure to bring your wallet, you won't be disappointed, but you might be broke!

The Decor Details

Build and Decor - Bee Designs - Merry Christmas Y'all - Gacha @ Shiny Shabby
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Shiny%20Shabby/140/127/21

Teddies - Bee Designs - Christmas Teddies Gacha @ Cosmopolitan
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/No%20Comment/131/61/22

Have a wonderfully wicked rest of your day and remember to always stay true to your style and make today's trends in fashion and home decor work for you!

~Jade~

A Dreamers Corner - Featuring Bee Designs and Serenity Style

“All men dream: but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds wake in the day to find that it was vanity: but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act their dreams with open eyes, to make it possible.”
– T.E. Lawrence

Today has decided to be one of those days that I wish had never happened, and I want to crawl back into bed, but I know that doesn't help anything. So I dove into decorating this new scene with goodies from Bee Designs and Serenity Style, hoping to channel some of my stress away and it worked, at least for a bit. While decorating I was thinking of dreams and possibilities and how they can get crushed, but that you still have to continue to dream or you just wither away.
Soooo...

DREAM!

BELIEVE!

ACHIEVE!

The Decor Details

Build - Trompe Loeil - Romy Bay Cottage
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Hyde%20Park/214/206/22

Rug - 22769 - Refugium Rug - COMMON
From last Epiphany round
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Wooden%20Bay/36/124/23

Desk, Computer, Keyboard, Mouse, Notebook, Shelf with accessories, Artwork - Serenity Style - Working Space Desk
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Tanya/204/124/22

Dolls - Bee Designs - Madeleine Dolls Gacha @ Cosmopolitan NOW!
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/No%20Comment/131/61/22

Floor Lamp - LISP - Art Noveau Texture Change Lamp
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/LISP/129/156/21

Be Brave sign - unKindness
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Oracle%20Sparc/129/88/4011

Tech Dock - Balaclava - Device Dock
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/chopsticks/86/35/29

Hanging Plants - *YS&YS* - Riciclo Set
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Feel%20Beautiful/106/118/23

Believe Sign - unKindness
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Oracle%20Sparc/129/88/4011

Painting - 22769 - Refugium Monet Picture in Frame - COMMON
From last Epiphany round
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Wooden%20Bay/36/124/23

Planter - 22769 - Refugium Copper Plantstand 2 - COMMON
From last Epiphany round
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Wooden%20Bay/36/124/23

Word sign - Kalopsia - Faith's Message
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Vintage%20Romance/125/135/22

Have a wonderfully wicked rest of your day and do me a favor and hug your children tonight, remind them of how much you love them, and tuck them in safe and sound.

~Jade~

"Eyes on fire, Your spine is ablaze, Felling any foe with my gaze." Featuring the new Powder Pack release and Persefona

I started blogging to fill the gap created when I became disabled and no longer could work a traditional job, and because it gave me the chance to dip my feet back into the fashion and interior design worlds I had been separated from for years. At one point I was trying to blog for too many creators and it became a bit overwhelming, to be honest, and no longer served it's purpose of relieving stress and helping me to feel like I still could contribute to society. When my health took a turn for the worse I made the hard decision to step away from some of my blogging responsibilities and with that has come a sense of freedom. I have more time to concentrate on each and every photo and post, giving me the ability to better promote those who have chosen me to represent them with my blog. And with this freedom I have finally been able to work on my photo and editing skills, and with this has come recognition from artists I have followed and admired. Though I was never really looking for it, because as I said, I blog for my sponsors and I, and as long as they love what I do, I am content. But to see my photos soaring over a thousand views and hundreds of likes makes my heart burst with joy, because it means other people appreciate the artwork I create, and often times follow my blog, allowing them to also follow my real life, not just the fashion and decor of Second Life. The passion I originally started with has returned in abundance and I continue to watch and read tutorials about photography and photoshop, furthering my knowledge and allowing my art to grow.

One of the hardest things for me over the years in regards to photography on Second Life was the close up photo. Before I had my good computer everything got choppy up close, and since I couldn't render materials, I could never show off jewelry or makeup very well and it broke my heart. Once I did an upgrade on the computer I suddenly could do things I had never dreamed of with my photos and the settings on Second Life, but still the great close up alluded me. Everything always looked disproportionate and out of focus and I continued to struggle. After reading a few photo tutorials and learning a bit more about Firestorm I suddenly had perfectly proportioned, clear close ups and could show off jewelry and makeup like I had always wanted to, and this photo is a perfect example!

August 1st marked the release of the Powder Pack for LeLutka August edition and I had been dying to dive into the boxes, but my schedule hadn't permitted that until yesterday. This is probably my favorite pack since I started getting them, so I know they are expensive but do yourself a favor and go grab one, or make sure to reserve the next one, because you won't ever be disappointed. Today I am showing off gorgeous new eyes from Avi Glam, fresh new skin from Essences, and makeup from Zibska, Arise, and OHeMO. One of the things I love the most about the last full month of Summer, is the trend towards a redheads colour palette! It's the time of year when the palettes meet and meld together in some of the most spectacular of ways and I absolutely fell in love with this combination! As always Zibska has released perfect eye shadows that remind me of the sunsets in Arizona. The colours are blended well and I love the sparkles and shine, especially combined with this subtle brown lipstick from Arise. As most of you know, I have been an IKON eye addict, and I truly have never worn anything else because I love the shine and wide variety of colours. Avi Glam has blown me away with the Lure eyes, a new release for the August LeLutka Power Pack, with their gorgeous shine, fabulous colour choices and fantastic HUD to change the colours, size, and depth, making them incredibly versatile and you can bet I will be heading over to check out more eye releases!

One of the thing photographers often have happen in real life, are bokeh lights. They occur a lot around water and where there are lights and reflections and can add depth and shine to your Second Life photos, but they have to be added after through an editing program. Persefona has released a Bokeh Photography gacha set for the latest round of Cosmopolitan and I loved playing with them via the hud, changing their glow and size allowing me to create the lighting for this photo without having to add them via after effects. All photographers need to add this to their box of prop goodies, you won't be disappointed, and you can bet I will be avidly watching Persefona from now on! I hope you enjoy this look and this month's Powder Pack as much as I did and have fun shopping!

The Fashion Details

Head - LeLutka - Simone - Bento
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/LeLutka/119/138/24

Body - Maitreya - Lara
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Maitreya%20Isle/128/133/24

Skin - Essences - Grazia - Pale #2 @ Powder Pack - August - LeLutka
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/The%20Last%20Forever/93/116/22

Hair - No.Match - No Pressure
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/No%20Comment/131/61/22

Eyes - Avi Glam - Lure Eyes @ Powder Pack LeLutka - August
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/The%20Last%20Forever/93/116/22

Lashes - Tameless - LeLutka Lashes NEW!!
149L
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Dreyfus/184/162/1504

Eye Shadow - Zibska - Sal Eye Makeup @ Powder Pack - LeLutka - August
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/The%20Last%20Forever/93/116/22

Lips - Arise - Stella @ Powder Pack - LeLutka - August
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/The%20Last%20Forever/93/116/22

Mole - OHeMO - PP LeLutka August Moles @ Powder Pack - LeLutka - August
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/The%20Last%20Forever/93/116/22

Earrings and Necklace - RealEvil - Kitty Pearls Set
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/RealEvil%20Industries/114/132/24

Top - Dead Dollz - Vacanze Romane - Dove
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Endless%20Summer/193/121/21

Pose - An Lar - The Still Series
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Remarkable/84/74/22

Bokeh Prop Lights - Persefona -Bokeh Photography Set - Gacha @ Cosmopolitan
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/No%20Comment/131/61/22

Eyes on Fire

Have a wonderfully wicked rest of your day and remember to always stay true to your style and make today's trends in fashion and home decor work for you!

~Jade~

A perfect spot to relax for a Bohemian like me! - Zen Creations, Six o'clock!, unKindness, junk, Scarlet Creative

As most of you know I recently cut down my number of sponsors because there are only so many hours in a day and with me still without internet at home, I just can't seem to keep up.  Without the pressure I felt a bit of freedom and actually had time to do a little shopping just for me, and to decorate my home, which has been standing empty since the first day of Spring.  I wouldn't have been decorating however, if I hadn't stumbled upon this amazing collection from Zen Creations that was at the last round of Cosmopolitan.

The Kaleidoscope Set comes in PG and Adult versions, all for one price, which I absolutely loved, because as anyone who has shopped for furniture knows, the Adult sets can quite often become quite pricey.  The set comes as one linked piece when you rez it, but then each piece can be moved to where you like it!  The entire design of this set is fantastic with the colors and patterns playing perfectly off of each other, making the penultimate Bohemian retreat!  The textures are exquisite and the wonderful attention to detail is reflected in the continuous flow between objects of the scene.  I love the pillows and candles that can be moved inside the cabinet, and the doors can also be closed so the accessories within can be used to accessorize your scene, so do your Bohemian heart some good and go grab this collection, I promise you won't be disappointed!

The Decor Details

Build - Scarlet Creative - Nerites (past gacha)
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/mountain%20view/130/3/22

Curtains - Junk - Boho Curtain
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/junk/42/73/25

Screen, Chair, Ottoman, Cabinet, Rug, Hanging Candles, Art - Zen Creations - Kaleidescope Set
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Island%20of%20Zen/85/66/43

Clock - Zerkalo - Love Nest Vintage Clock
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Zerkalo/151/128/21

Wall Signs - unKindness - Love, Soul Mate, Dreams
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Enchanted%20Valley/195/107/21

Luggage - Six o'clock! - Coloured Bags (Gacha from last round of Cosmopolitan)
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/No%20Comment/168/111/22

Have a wonderfully wicked rest of your day and remember to always stay true to your style and make today's trends in fashion and home decor work for you!

~Jade~

Happy Valentine's Day - featuring Marquesse, Noodles, No.Match, Empyrean Forge, Virtual Diva, ClaVv, The Epiphany

Today is one of those days I absolutely despised when I was single because it made me feel a little left out I guess.  This year, though not single, I have come to discover that today is just another day if you happen to be in a relationship where you are consistently showing your significant other how you feel.  The boyfriend and I just celebrated 9 months together last week, and like all the other months before hand, we exchanged cards, had dinner and reminded each other why we fell in love in the first place.  So when the sun rose this morning on this day of love I simply said, "Good Morning," because for us, it is just another day.  I might have picked up something different for dinner tonight, and I might have picked up a card sometime earlier this month just because I liked what it had to say, but for the most part Valentine's Day is every day in my life, and it should be for you too.  No one should ever have to worry about where they stand in a relationship, they should know every day by the gestures that are made.  Whether it's simply walking around to open the car door for you when going out for groceries, or picking up your favorite soda when your stomach is upset, or getting up early to take the car into the shop so you don't have to.  These are the simply things, the little things that matter the most, not some grand gesture thought of at the last minute because someone reminded you it's Valentine's Day.  If you truly love the one you are with, then show them that for you, every day is Valentine's Day because you are blessed to have them in your life.

If you are looking to stun your significant other tonight, or perhaps someone you would like to take that roll, then do yourself a favor and check out this absolutely stunning new release from Marquesse.  The dress is very well made with a lovely, plunging neckline that is sure to distract that special someone this evening.  The dress comes in three colors with matching boot styled heels which happen to bring this ensemble together quite nicely, especially with the thigh baring slit that shows off the gorgeous shoes made to accompany the dress.  The beading along the bodice and straps is wonderful, adding a bit of sparkle to this elegantly draped gown.  I spent a bit of time accessorizing this gown because I didn't want anything to overpower the look so I was thrilled when I stumbled upon this delicate new necklace combination from Noodles, available at Cosmopolitan.  The necklace HUD allows you to change the pieces to match your ensemble, so hurry on over and pick yours up, I promise you won't be disappointed!  And if you happen to be a lover of Empyrean Forge, then hurry to FaMESHed to see the newest pieces.  The Fortuna Collection comes with a wide variety of pieces, but I fell in love with the bracelets, and since my jewelry box is overflowing, I didn't splurge on the whole set, at least not yet!  There are two bracelets in each pack, making them incredibly versatile, especially after you start playing with the HUD to create your own look!

With my return and the introduction of BENTO, you can imagine I have been spending hours up on the platform tweaking the sliders to get the perfect look.  I discovered that with different appliers, the same face can look incredibly different!  I happen to stop by DeeTaleZ quite often to see what has been moved into the sale area and I was tickled pink to see the Angel applier from earlier in 2016 has made it to the sale room and for only 850L I picked up another skin, and I absolutely ADORE it!  If you haven't been by the sale room at the store, go wander, especially if you wear LeLutka, and see what you can find!  You won't be disappointed!!!  Happy shopping and I hope you have a wonderful evening with your significant other, or soon to be!  You deserve it!

The Fashion Details

Head - LeLutka - Simone 2.2 - Bento - Custom Shape
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/LeLutka/119/138/24

Body - Maitreya - Lara
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Maitreya%20Isle/128/133/24

Skin - DeeTaleZ - Angel
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/DeeTaleZ/127/128/265

Eyes - IKON - Triumph - Silverleaf
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/IKON/143/128/501

Hair - No.Match - No.Darkness
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/No%20Comment/102/140/22

Necklace - Noodles - Starling Collection @ Cosmopolitan
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/No%20Comment/131/61/22

Bracelets - Empyrean Forge - Fortuna Bangles and Bracelets @ FaMESHed
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/FaMESHed/122/161/22

Dress - Marquesse - Romantic Gown and Boots - Red @ #HashTag
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Strigoiu/161/195/3002

Pose - Virtual Diva - Valentine Set of Poses @ Swank
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Spring%20Retreat/160/138/3003

The Decor Details
Build
CLAVv - Light Studio Skybox - Epiphany Exclusive @ The Epiphany
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/The%20Epiphany/84/135/1006

CLAVv - Light Studio - Light Rug A @ The Epiphany
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/The%20Epiphany/84/135/1006

Have a wonderfully wicked rest of your day and remember to always stay true to your style and make the trends in today's fashion and home decor work for you!

~Jade~ 

“When the world is itself draped in the mantle of night, the mirror of the mind is like the sky in which thoughts twinkle like stars.” ― Khushwant Singh

From time to time, over the years, I have gone through bouts of insomnia, usually when under severe stress.  Which means I am not exactly surprised by the fact that I have been waking every night between midnight and 2 am and staying up for a couple of hours before being able to snuggle back up in bed.  Time seemed to have gone into fast forward the past month and the stress of finalizing the move, my soon to be landlord making things a bit difficult, health insurance being, and a sudden health crisis have me pacing the living room in the wee hours of the morning.  If you have ever suffered from insomnia, then you know your brain seems to be running in the highest gear possible causing you to ruminate over even the most mundane of topics.  I try to keep those demons at bay by reading, or playing pool on my phone, which has become a new addiction, or doing a bit of yoga, and often a combination of all of the above!  I realized very early this morning, as I stood on the porch watching a Red-tailed Hawk eye the birds flitting around for their breakfast in the newly mowed field that one thing I haven't managed to put on my new phone is MUSIC!  I am starting to go through a bit of withdrawal since I am used to having Spotify, Youtube, or the radio when at home, and the new house still has no net so two of those things are out of the question, as is a radio since I still haven't found where I packed mine!  Soothing techniques are important when you happen to be a late night, early morning, restless and anxious person; and I have an arsenal at my beckoned call, but sometimes your brain just doesn't want to sleep.  When I saw my Doctor the other day, I told her about the most recent spell of sleeplessness and she told me to wait about 10 minutes before getting out of bed, and if I am still restless to then get up and take a bath and relax and just let my brain do it's thing.  I was kind of amused, to be honest, because that is really the last thing you expect from a Physician, but then again, I picked her for that very reason.  So I guess, until the stress subsides, or my brain decides it's time for a full nights sleep, I will be tossing and turning all night!  (You had to know I was going to end up tying this up to a song, right?!)

As I have said in the past, I absolutely love blogging for the We Love to Blog group mainly because I get to see creations from new designers before most people know their names, and so I feel a bit like I get to introduce them to everyone!  Which, is a tad bit self centered, since there are plethora of amazing bloggers who are part of the group who showcase these Creators as well.  If you don't know anything about We Love To Blog, then make sure to click >HERE< and check it out!  

I had never heard of I'piteme until recently when I started receiving boxes to blog, and I have to say I am truly impressed by the textures and wonderful attention to detail that goes along with every piece.  I have not taken off this jeans and tank combo in more days than I care to admit, but they are perfect for ME, and the ensemble has made it's way into my daily wear folder, which means if I saw it at an event, even though I had never heard of the designer, I would be buying it for myself!  The Whiskey Girl Tank and Jeans come in a wide variety of colors, and you can choose to have "Whiskey Girl" written across the chest or not, which when paired with the jeans, they are a must have addition to your closet, so head on over to the store and see for yourself all the fantastic creations of I'piteme!

The Fashion Details

Body - Maitreya
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Maitreya%20Isle/128/133/24

Head - LeLutka
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/LeLutka/128/128/26

Skin - DeeTaleZ
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/DeeTaleZ/127/128/265

Eyes - IKON - Triumph - Silverleaf
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/IKON/143/128/501

Hair - No.Match - No.Treasure @ Cosmopolitan 4th Anniversary
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/No%20Comment/131/61/22 
 
Earrings - Cae - Etoiles @ Cosmopolitan 4th Anniversary
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/No%20Comment/131/61/22

Tattoo - White-Widow - Lights Out
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Essences/129/135/22

Top and Jeans - I'piteme - Whiskey Girl
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Damar/215/233/21
MP
https://marketplace.secondlife.com/stores/149261

The Décor Details
Chair - Trompe Loeil - Selah Rattan
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Hyde%20Park/205/204/36

Books - 8f8 - Storyteller's Burrow - Knowledge Cart

Incense and Singing Bowl - Soy
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Soy/147/160/30

Curtain - junk. - Boho Curtain
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/junk/103/64/30

Ladder - Clustered - Bohemian Corner Ladder

Big Book Stack - Zerkalo - Huge Pile of Books - RARE
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Zerkalo/151/128/21

Pillow - unKindness - Boho Puff Pillow Stack
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Enchanted%20Valley/195/107/21

Rug - unKindness - Battered Old Rug V2
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Enchanted%20Valley/195/107/21

Chaise - unKindness - Boho Puff Bench V2
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Enchanted%20Valley/195/107/21

Have a wonderfully wicked rest of your day and remember to always stay true to your style and make today's trends in fashion and home décor work for you!

~Jade~

"Now I've been crying lately, thinking about the world as it is. Why must we go on hating, why can't we live in bliss? Cause out on the edge of darkness, there rides a peace train. Oh peace train take this country, come take me home again." Cat Stevens

Not sure if you noticed or not yesterday in my post that I seemed to have something on my mind, the truth is, I do, but I have no idea how to actually go about discussing it.  A message I received yesterday has me in a very pensive mood in regards to relationships, the outer self we project online, the true self we hide and what I have decided to call the "inverted mirror."  As most of us know, prejudices seem to run deep online, even when veiled behind walls of supposed acceptance.  I have come to believe that -ism's in all their forms run rampant because a person never really has to see the effect their words have upon another.  I have personally witnessed the slinging of hate in many forms and I have always been astonished at the language some people use with each other, and I have often wondered if they would say those same things if they could see the pain they cause.  Which leads me to wonder how much of our true selves do we hide without realizing it because of an inherent fear of wandering into these murky waters.

Whether right or wrong, when people get to know me they can attest to the fact that I am a bit of a nut who wears her heart on her sleeve, with a whole bunch of fluffy and not so fluffy crap in the middle.  My real life best friend has been with me online for almost a decade now and she will shake her head and laugh about the fact I don't change online or off.  I still haven't figured out if that is a good thing or a bad one yet, but we have been friends for almost 15 years at this point, so I must be doing something right.  However, recent events have shown me that maybe I don't show enough people who I am.  I always thought being quiet and observant made me mysterious, not a bitch, at least in some people's eyes.  But with mystery comes misunderstanding and that leaves room for rumor and conjecture, which we all know only leads down darker paths.  In Psychology they call the act of pushing your emotions or thoughts or fears onto another as to not face them within yourself, transference.  I think Second Life and other online platforms create an atmosphere where this becomes almost a standard practice when going on a rant.  I have begun to call this the "inverted mirror" effect.  Instead of shining light on personal failings people immediately turn the mirror around and are really pointing out their negative attributes, not yours or anothers.  I have often said the things that we complain about the most in others, are those things we dislike about ourselves the most.  This is why I think people should take a step back before they hit the "send" button on a text, message or status, and think about how they would feel seeing that from another point of view.  Now of course there are just some callous, heartless, prejudiced people who will never see any point of view other than their own, but hey every party needs a party pooper, right?  The rest of us can continue on our journey into the darkness in search of the peace train.

The Fashion Details
Head - LeLutka
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/LeLutka/128/128/26

Skin - DeeTaleZ
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/DeeTaleZ/127/128/265

Body - Maitreya
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Maitreya%20Isle/128/133/24

Eyes - Avi Glam - Elysian Eyes - Summernight @ Cosmopolitan
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/No%20Comment/131/61/22

Lashes - Gaeline Creations - Felicia
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/GAELINE%20CREATIONS/128/127/30

Hair - Little Bones - Young @ FaMESHed
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/FaMESHed/131/161/22

Earrings, Choker and Necklace - Cae - Mila @ FaMESHed
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/FaMESHed/131/161/22

Bracelets and Rings - Secrets - Turquesa Set - Gold @ Cosmopolitan
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/No%20Comment/131/61/22

Top and Skirt - !gO! - Rita Top and Skirt @ The Chapter Four #38
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Dreamlove/89/134/1236

Pose - PosESion - Elfaba Set
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Brimstone/49/61/22

A little peek behind the scenes

The last couple of posts have had me behind the camera, which most of my friends know, is where I like to be from time to time; and the last month has had me out shopping quite a bit compared to other months, but not all of those purchases were for my home.  I like to chat with a friend or two as I decorate scenes as it can get a bit monotonous, and the other day someone asked me why I rarely show what I wear behind the scenes; what I wear when I am just Jadey.  I realized that I had tried to get into the habit of sharing what hangs out in my closet but with new sponsors, new events, etc. I had let it slide.  So today I give you a little peek behind the camera again, to see what you can find me in when lounging around the house or hanging out with friends.

If you haven't become a huge fan of the Cosmopolitan Show Room then you seriously need to check it out.  From home decor to the latest in high fashion you can find it all including this gorgeous new ensemble from Sweet Kajira.  The Susanne outfit includes the earrings, necklace with resizer, bracelet, belt with resizer and the pantsuit and is available in a variety of colors meaning you are sure to find a favorite like I did.  For lounging around the house, chilling with friends or decorating and taking pics this ensemble needs to find its way into your closet, you won't be disappointed.  And whether this hair comes in a gacha like it currently does at The Epiphany, or if it had been a new release in the store, I would have beg, borrowed and stolen to get my hands on the red version.  Lucky for us all I happened to get The Redheads after only two attempts, which made me giddy as I LOVE this style.  The loosely gathered, front pigtails are casual yet sultry and come in the wonderful color packs always offered from Elikatira so hit up that gacha and grab yours today.  Remember when thinking of your next gacha stop that The Epiphany gives "reward" points, as I like to think of them, for those pesky extras that always seem to happen when dealing with gachas, so check out all the info on the boards when you load and happy shopping!  

The Fashion

Body - Maitreya

Head - LeLutka - Simone

Skin - DeeTaleZ - Paige

Hair - Elikatira - Khloe - The Redheads @ The Epiphany

Eyes - IKON - Triumph - Oxidation

Lashes - Gaeline Creations - Fantasia - Mesh

Lips - Alaskametro - Sheer Gloss - Gold

Complete Ensemble - Sweet Kajira - Susanne - Includes earrings, necklace with resizer, bracelet, belt with resizer and pantsuit @ Cosmo til the 30th

Pose - An Lar - The Honour Series @ Shiny Shabby

 

I am going to plop down in a chair over at my house now and return to being behind the camera at least for another post of two.  Have a wonderfully wicked rest of your day and remember to always stay true to your style and make today's fashion trends work for you!

"Seeking shelter like a spark in the rain"

Life is not easy or smooth sailing and sometimes we get blindsided by health issues, financial crises, random losses etc.  So many people struggle in silence and don't share what they are going through only causing themselves more isolation with little relief from the stress of the issue at hand.  And then there are those, who show their strength by sharing their struggles and revealing themselves even when it is the hardest thing for them to do.  To make yourself open and vulnerable is to trust those around you, and to have faith in the good in humanity.  Recently a well known and loved creator, Lexi Zelin discovered she had Cancer at a very young age, and as a wife, mother, provider, designer she reached out to everyone letting them know her situation and the struggles she was going through.  The amazing community on Second Life has rallied together and since the end of July The Lexi Project's doors have been opened featuring exclusive designs from tons of creators with all proceeds going to Lexi, to assist with her ongoing medical treatment.  This amazing dress is from HEYDRA and is only available at the event and remember 100% of your purchase goes directly to Lexi Zelin, which means you get a fantastic dress AND you get to do a little good in this world.

The attention to detail and textures are truly amazing on this dress and the ass you get is truly bootilicious and fit perfectly with my Maitreya body, which always makes me happy.  I had fun putting this ensemble together because this dress fits my style quite nicely.  The form fitting lines of the dress are very classic with modern detailing at the bodice leading to its eclectic feel, which after all is the true definition of bohemian, combining textures, fabrics and patterns in an artsy kind of way.  

Long before "Harry Potter" you could say I had a bit of a catch phrase I was known for, "always in all ways," and it means many different things to me but one of them applies in regards to The Lexi Project.  We are all energy condensed into solid form in a most magical way.  Chemistry between people can be explained by the idea that some energies flow together, while some repel.  That unknown, unexplained connection you find with people you barely know can be chalked up to your energies wanting to share space with each other.  Since I came to Second Life I have discovered a synergy among people and a true sense of community, another exchange of energies.  It is perpetual, and ever growing as more people interact and share the same space, creating our own "always", where the energy of creativity and positive thoughts collide.  I truly believe in the power of our minds and that our energy pooled together can do magical things.  Yes, here is another time someone is going to mutter "hippie" under their breath and probably one of those times they wouldn't be that far off.  I believe a chorus of voices can raise anyone to greater heights.  So when I found this tattoo last month at The Wizarding Fair I just HAD to have it, and it has become a daily part of my wardrobe.  Check the store as the event has ended, and I am not sure if it has been moved into the main inventory at this point.  Head on over to The Lexi Project before it ends on the 9th and shop til you drop for an amazing cause!

Ensemble

Hair - Lamb - Want You

Skin - DeeTaleZ - Anka

Eyes - IKON - Hope - Glass

Lashes - Gaeline Creations - Felicia - MESH

Eyeshadow - SlackGirl - Pria @ Cosmopolitan

Necklace - Maxi Gossamer - Vallari Neck Collar

Chest Tattoo - The Wicked Peach - Always

Nails - Pulcino - Secret Garden

Dress - HEYDRA - Lexi @ The Lexi Project

Poses - Kirin - Namie

 

Have a wonderfully wicked rest of your day and remember to always stay true to your style and make today's fashion trends work for you!

~Jade~

Living Lush

Long before Lush by CoCo was a sponsor I was a huge fan of the incredibly well designed clothes in bold colors and shape defining lines and could be found grabbing the newest pieces as they were released.  From the start I noticed LBC had very similar thoughts about style and fashion trends as I do, which isn't actually that common, so of course I followed along on the blog and grew to "know" the designer at least in the way she presented her store.  Since that time I have come to blog for LBC and can assure you that if you are looking for a classic, yet modern clothing line that fits your style and your life, then head on over and check out the store, and while you are at it, pop into the Designer Showcase and pick up this gorgeous new release.

Living the Lush life

The stunning draped Jungle Queen dress comes in a variety of colors as well as a luxurious tropical print all with fantastic gathered pleats and curve revealing design.  This dress can obviously be dressed up for those more formal nights out or dressed down for an evening on the beach, I promise a little salt water won't destroy your look!  The top is slightly sheer adding to the sex appeal that this dress exudes with every sway of your hips.  Do yourself a favor and add this to your wardrobe, I promise you won't be disappointed.

"Encourage every woman to be audacious. This one sentence is summed up in the phrase “Live Lush”.  That is the long lasting mission of Lush By CoCo, even when it was apart of Lush Limited. Lush is not couture and there is no glamour. Instead the focus is on emphasizing bold options in our everyday choices. Though she may find her own path, the Lush Woman is bold and confident. She’s not afraid to show skin and be seen. She pays just enough attention to trends to be fashion forward, but knows that true fashion sense  relies on a personal style compass.  Lush is here to provide the tools necessary to follow that style compass."  Xi Zane - Creator of Lush by CoCo

When I hear DeeTaleZ has released a new and semi-exclusive skin at Cosmopolitan I scamper over as fast as my tele will take me so I can add it to my collection.  And yes, at this point that is the only word that seems to fit with the sheer number of skins I have picked up over the last year.  I am a huge fan and as most of my followers can attest, you will rarely find me in any other skin.  I have tried many and I used to switch them up a bit but with mesh bodies, I returned to my first love.  If you are looking for a skin that doesn't show a break at the neck, or strange shading or if you don't want to mess with add-ons to "fix" the issue then pick up a Maitreya body and a DeeTaleZ skin and the appliers, which are incredibly reasonable and I bet you will rarely change your skin again, just your makeup!  One of the things you can count on from DeeTaleZ as well is that the skins at events are in makeups that won't be released again, for the most part.  I have found that when I buy an exclusive makeup version, I often head to the store to pick up the main one as well, it has happened on more than one occasion now and it is becoming a bit of a habit, but I can think of all kinds of worse habits than DeeTaleZ!    I love the freckles and soft makeup on Joice as well as the delicate, natural brows.  I have had people comment on my brows lately and I will let you all in on a little secret.... DeeTaleZ - Brow Option 2.  Not really a secret when they are given to everyone, but I think sometimes we get stuck in a rut and don't try those head shapes, brow shapes etc.  And by the way, no, DeeTaleZ is not a sponsor, simply a brand I love that I don't talk about very often.  

DeeTaleZ - Joice @ Cosmo

If you haven't discovered the amazing jewels from JUMO then you are truly missing out on exquisite jewelry that deserves a spot in your jewelry box.  Every piece makes a statement and many of them can be mixed and matched with each other.  Take some time to head by the store and discover JUMO and their stunning jewelry and couture creations, you will never be disappointed.

Ensemble 

Hair - Elikatira - Lillian

Skin - DeeTaleZ - Joice @ Cosmopolitan

Earrings - JUMO - part of the Gaia Bride Collection

Bracelets and Ring - JUMO - Marais

Nails - Nailed It - Bonita @ Swank

Dress - Lush by CoCo - Jungle Queen - Strawberry @ Designer Showcase

Shoes - SYSY's - Tied Up - Gold

Poses

Close Up - KaTink - Andrea Editorial

Full - KaTink - Gabby

Have a wonderfully wicked rest of your day and remember to always stay true to your style and make today's fashion trends work for you!

~Jade~    

The stillest time of the night is after the party has died

It is that magical, witching hour of the night, the time when in fairy tales Cinderella unfortunately turned from the bell of the ball to the Queen of the cinder pit and for those of us not living in a dream world; it is the time that the party has started to wind down.  The music, whose bass has been beating through everyone's body all night, has now quieted and the occasional laugh carries along through the air mixing with the soft whisper of the water in the pool; creating a much different atmosphere than the earlier hustle and bustle of the soiree.  It is that time when you can sit back and relax in the energy given off by those around you and take time to breathe and relax.  I always find myself wandering to the edge of the pool to have the sounds and dazzling lights dancing off the water lull me into a strange state of mediation.  Tonight I sparkled in a gorgeous new ensemble from dirty.little.secret exclusively for The Wash event.

The "Tube Top" and "Leather and Sequin" pants are available in Red and Gold with three different pairs of shoes for you to choose from as well.  This outfit is an exclusive release for the event, along with several other pieces that you just can't miss!  I love the casual, yet chic feel of this ensemble with its pencil pants and flowing tube top accented with gorgeous sequins.  The pumps that come with the outfit are a bit clunkier than I like, so I chose to toss on this fabulous new pair of shoes from ChicChica exclusively available at Cosmopolitan until tomorrow.  And if you are wearing sequins then make sure you add enough bling in your jewelry selections to balance out the ensemble without making it too much.  This is a careful balance, and when I am looking for jewelry with a mixture of heavy and light, I immediately look to this fabulous collection from Lazuri released last Fall.  You are sure to find the color combinations you are looking for and will adore the way you can mix and match the pieces of this collection.  

Style Card

 Body, Hands and Feet - Slink

Skin - DeeTaleZ

Eyes - IKON - Sovereign

Hair - Lamb - Birdy

Jewelry - Lazuri - Fall Romance Collection

Top - dirty.little.secret - TW - Tube Top - Red @ The Wash until June 10th

Pants - dirty.little.secret - TW - Leather and Sequins @ The Wash until June 10th

Shoes - ChicChica - Steffanie - Gold @ Cosmopolitan until 6/7

Prop and Pose - Exposeur - The Spanish Patio @ FaMeshed  

The last glass has been taken to the kitchen and the couples are starting to curl up on the lounges around the patio as the singles spot me in my zen isolation at the pool, the final bottle of Champagne in their hands.  Well it's time for that last glass. the last toast and time to kick everyone out for a good nights sleep.  Have a wonderfully wicked rest of your night, or day as the sun is rising on the other side of the world right now, and remember to always stay true to your style and make today's fashion trends work for you!  xoxo Jade

The play of smoke and light on the window pane

Last fall I happened upon a wonderful organization for bloggers and creators called SL Blogger Support, and it was by far one of the best choices I have made over the last year.  Recently, the posts there have been discussing how to get more traffic on your blog and after today's article I had to sit back for a bit and think about everything presented in "4 essential blogging secrets to help you write seductively readable SL blog posts."  Along the way my blog has evolved, and actually took a turn I had not expected at the start.  I am a Bohemian at heart and when out and about shopping, or hanging out with friends, you will find me in an eclectic mix of designs, colors and textures.  But, what you won't find, are baggy, form hiding designs, poorly textured fabrics or pieces that interfere with walking, sitting or dancing.  Often times this style of my own, leans toward the more haute couture, but always with an artistic, or Bohemian flair.  This why I close every post by saying make today's fashion trends work for you, because that is after all what it means to have personal style.  The ability to take new and trendy items and use them in a way that fits your personality, not the way the newest magazine tells you to wear it.  Looking back at my posts along the way, I have to say I still truly believe that is what my blog is all about, showing all of you how to integrate the newest, high fashion designs into your more artisan lifestyle wardrobes.  Stay tuned as I take to heart some of the advice I have come across lately and start to tailor my blog more directly towards my original goal.

Today I took some time to head out to a few events and do a little retail therapy as I love to call it!  First stop Cosmopolitan since I know this round will be ending soon and I wanted to check out some of the pieces I had been seeing on FB and other blogs.  New to the scene for me is WetCat but this FANTASTIC pose and prop has made it's mark.  The "Smoke" Window Prop is a well textured piece perfect for any studio with 14 unisex "smoking" poses that also comes with a Cigarette and Lighter prop.  The windows also have 3 positions, Open, Closed, and Half Way meaning you can truly capture the feeling of the scene you are creating.  I also stopped by FaMeshed, and Designer Showcase as well, so stay tuned for those posts soon. 

A new Gacha event has hit the grid this month, Audace Summer Fair and Glint! has LOTS of goodies for you to check out including this gorgeous bracelet and ring combo.  This is the Rare, and though it says "Green" I would really call it more of an Aqua, which made it go PERFECTLY with this adorable new ensemble from NoName. 

The "Shari" set comes with the Top and Suspender Shorts as one with a HUD to change the Shorts, Suspenders, Top and Metals, and for those a little more daring you can also choose to hide the top!  The mesh fit incredibly well with my Slink Physique and the textures are truly wonderful, so head on by the store and get yours today!  And while you are out, make sure to head by HUDSON's Clothing Co. for the grid wide Silk Road Hunt VI that runs June 1st through the 30th and get your hands on these stunning new necklaces especially designed for the hunt.  The "Roman Coin and Cross Heavy Necklaces" are Unisex and can be worn together or separately.  Check the board as you land for the hint!  

Style Card

Body, Hands and Feet- Slink

Skin - DeeTaleZ - Max

Eyes - IKON - Hope - Apex

Hair - Mina - Mientje

Necklaces - HUDSON's Clothing Co. - Roman Coin and Cross Set - Unisex - Silk Road Hunt VI

Tattoos - White-Widow - Lost River

Top and Suspender Shorts - NoName - Shari NEW!!!

Bracelet and Ring - Glint! - Flower and Bracelet - Green - RARE @ Audace Summer Fair

Pose and Props - WetCat - "Smoke" Window Prop @ Cosmopolitan    

Well, I hope through the window tonight that I have you glimpse into the grid out there and that you have gotten a few ideas for things you can add to your wardrobe.  Have a wonderfully wicked rest of your night and remember to always stay true to your style and make today's fashion trends work for you! 

~Jade~