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The Perfect Buzz – July 26, 2010 Fabulous Fashion

If you thought Fabulous Fashion is only for the tender gender, then think again. The July 26, 2010 Fabulous Fashion, with hostess Angie Mornington, featured an exclusive look at men’s fashions . The featured guest was none other than the charming, and very Irish Designer, Rob1977 Moonites, himself. Rob describes his clothing line as a mix of casual, preppy and semi-formal. While the manly men love his stuff to death, it’s not unusual that a blushing maid might be inclined to slip into a little Rob wear, now and again. Yours truly confesses to mustering inspiration for this column by sporting the rich, deep blue pullover, crisp white shirt, red tie and red cargo pants that were just a sampling of the generous gift that Rob left behind at the studio and which is available for a short time longer. As I pulled hair, wracked my feeble brain and shed a tear or two in the process of forcing the muse to unholy congress, I can attest to the fact the Rob’s attractive, but sturdy line, held up to all of my abuse.

Camilla Hambleton

Audience member Camilla Hambleton was very impressed with Rob’s designs and the fact that he taught himself Photoshop in order to create his fabulous couture. She remarked that his perseverance paid off with a very successful line of men’s wear. Camilla had this to say about Rob’s success , “Rob must have had a lot of patience, kudos to him he is quite the role-model to many aspiring designers, especially male designers”.

Shayne Karillion

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Paper Couture Packs Them In

Just like in real life, some fashion labels here in Second Life command attention.  One such brand is Paper Couture and its drawing power was evident this night as Angie’s interview with Ava and Cora Lu attracted one of the largest audiences for the live taping.  Like most Second Life designers, and maybe even more so for them, the Lu’s are usually holed up in their workrooms busy designing clothes.  So when given the opportunity, fashion aficionados are eager for the advanage to listen to and perhaps meet the people behind the amazing fashion they love.

(Arabella Steadham and Anonymous Sorbet)

Arabella Steadham was present this night.  She has a familiarity with the Paper Couture and was happy for the chance to hear from the designers behind it.  ”The guest this week is one of the best, as she has quite a unique style and does not design for either the ‘kmart’ shopper or the ‘high fashion’ shopper.  She seems very open and non pretentious, which is a lovely breath of fresh air. Its a pity there are some technical glitches, however I know this happens and we all need to be patient! Last night with Paisley crashed the sim twice, so it could be worse. I particularly like the idea of showing the designers early creations, as it gives us an idea of the journey she has travelled in her own development to get to where she is today.”

(Samantha Hellmann and Sage Pexie)

Amazingly, amongst the crowd was at least one person not familiar with Ava and Cora Lu.  This is probably due to the fact that Sage Pexie is a designer herself and spends most of her time designing.  It was just coincidence that brought her to the studio for the first time, “I was interested in the show, never heard of the Lu’s.”  As for the show she found it “Very interesting…. It shows the versatility of designers in SL”  Perhaps one day we’ll see her on the show.

You can find more photos from the show on flickr.

Missed the show?  You can watch it online, or download it on iTunes.

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Fabulous Fashion Fans Look to the Future

Fans of Fabulous Fashion, both new and old, came to the studio for a glimpse of Rezzable’s view of future fashion.  Angie’s guests this night were Rusch Raymaker of Avenue Inc. and Achariya Maktoum of Rezzable, who were there to discuss the futuristic fashions being shown at the recent Rezzable fashion event.

(Rebekah Bagley and Nardya Rousselot)

Nardcotix owner, Nardya Rousselot managed to make the show this night.  She is a fan of the show but isn’t always able to make it to the live taping.  She does manage to come on special nights however, “Usually when people I know are here, or events that I am part of, sometimes I miss it, depends on how busy I am.  I really enjoy [Angie's interviews].”  As it turned out, Nardya had a very good reason to be at this taping.  She was asked to participate in the Rezzable event.  “It was an honor to be part of it, I’ve always been a huge fan of them, so when I got the invitation I was thrilled.”  In fact, Angie’s guest Rusch Raymaker was wearing one of her designs, “I spent extra time than usual for this one, I wanted it to have a unique feel to it, like a slimey alien leather type material.  I created an environment from the future so to speak, then tried to imagine what kind of clothing you’d wear in that kind of place.”

(ZsaZsa Withnail and Natasja Schumann)

Natasja Schumann was here to see the show for the first time, dressed appropriately for the theme.  She enjoyed the show but unfortunately can’t make the live taping most nights.  “This is my first time coming because they always make the show beyond my time.”  Obviously, there is no time that is convenient for everyone around the world, so it’s a good thing that the show can also be seen on the Treet.TV website.

(Applonia Criss)

Applonia Criss of Chantkare is another designer that rarely gets the opportunity to make the live taping but came this time whan she heard that Rezzables was going to be on.  “I love them, it’s a whole new element that I am excited to explore  with my own brand.”

You can find more photos from the show on flickr.

Missed the show?  You can watch it online, or download it on iTunes.

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Fabulous Fans Welcome Second Style

Although the typical format of Fabulous Fashion features a designer for the interview segment, Angie keeps the show fresh by including other aspects of the Second Life fashion industry.  This past week, she introduced Felicity Blumenthal and HeatherDawn Cohen of Second Style Magazine to the studio audience.  Although many of the fans of the show love to hear the interviews with their favorite designers, it seem apparent that they also welcome the opportunity for a peek behind the scenes of other fashion related businesses as well.

(Lalita Graves and Luna Jubilee)

It seems that every night there are new faces in the audience and it’s intersting to hear how they found the show and what they think of it.  This night, Lalita Graves joined the ranks of fans of Fabulous Fashion.  “It’s the first time I’ve attended and am finding it very informative.  I’m looking forward to visiting the featured stores.  I was actually searching to see what events were on now and discovered it.  It does feel like a real TV show!  Pass along my congrats for a great concept and show.”

(Nexeus Fatale and GoSpeed Racer)

Also returning to the studio was GoSpeed Racer, a fan of other past productions.  She remembered seeing Angie prior to her position as host of Fabulous Fashion.  “Last fall I used to come here a lot.  I am friends with Daphne Abernathy and used to watch her do her thing on the show.  I’m here tonight to support Gidge and Gabby (models on tonight’s show).  I remember [Angie] from her days on Paisley’s shows.  She definitely sounds more confidant in her interviews now.”

You can find more photos from the show on flickr.

Missed the show?  You can watch it online, or download it on iTunes.

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Real Fashion Goes Virtual With Boudoir

This past week on Fabulous Fashion, Angie’s guest was designer Vitabela Dubrovna of Boudoir.  Vitabela is one of those real life designers that has decided to bring her real world designs into Second Life.  We see a lot of wonderfully creative fashions here, but it’s always interesting to see how creations that work in the real world translate to the virtual.  Each environment has its own set of challenges and the process of designing clothes differs in each, making it difficult to achieve similar results in the two.  Fans of Fabulous Fashion were treated to some of the insights of Vitabela on these points and more.

(Meichelle Pfeffer and Lamar Yedmore)

As I scanned the studio audience this night I noticed a number of new names in attendance.  I’m sure I would have remembered seeing Meichelle Pfeffer if she had been here before.  It’s always interesting to hear a person’s first impressions of the show, ”I stumbled on [the show] by accident, actually… but I love fashion and just had to see what this was all about.  I think [real world fashion in SL] a great idea, bigger and better ideas are always a plus… fresh and fabulous is a wonderful thing to find.  I will return for sure.”  I’m sure Angie will be pleased to hear that Meichelle Pfeffer is now a fan of her show.

Sitting with Meichelle was Lamar Yedmore, another first time viewer.  Judging from his avatar, he is one guy that cares about dressing well and seemed pleased to find a resource like this show.  “Its interesting, makes sense though… its so hard for folks to find all the great designers in SL.”  He expressed a desire to return but naturally wondered how often mens fashion was covered.

(Lisa Launay and Lauren Weyland)

Lisa Launay and Lauren Weyland were also new to the studio audience and were appreciative of the theme of the show.  Lauren commented on other designers like Nyla Cheeky and Eshi Otawara that have brought their real world fashions to the virtual.  “I think both world designs are great.  I have other friends who did that too.  Like Nyla.  Eshi is a great friend in both worlds.  Anyhow it was a great show, even went out to look at the shops.”  Not only was Fabulous Fashion new to Lisa but so was Boudoir.  She seemed pleased to have found both.  ”I think there are some great elements we have not seen before in SL.  There were a few things there I would be happy wearing.”

You can find more photos from the show on flickr.

Missed the show?  You can watch it online, or download it on iTunes.

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ROCing With Ranena

This episode of Fabulous Fashion with Angie Mornington featured Ranena Olivier of ROC (Ranena Olivier Couture), and drew a diverse audience from around the grid.  Many were already familiar with Ranena’s work and talents and were looking forward the hearing the interview.  Also the popular Kay Fairey was back as the Guest Stylist.  She always impresses people with her fashion finds.

( Shiruviana Relph and Willamina Fitzgerald )

Willamina Fitzgerald was in attendance this night after not having made it for awhile.  This seemed to be a show she didn’t want to miss.  “I like Ranena’s clothing and wanted to also see what Kay had for us today.  I wandered in Ranena’s store one night and omg fell in love with her gowns.  She is very talented.  I like how Angie went back and showed the first thing she ever made in SL and how her work has progressed.  Kay was great and I’m glad I came because she showed me some accessories and designers I may not have found.”

( Silvermane Trefusis, Miaa Rebane and blackLiquid Tokyoska )

The show has a large following, but naturally, not everyone can make the live show every week.  The in studio audience, although having a collection of regulars, changes quite dramatically from week to week.  Some come occasionally just to fit some relaxation in to their busy schedules, such as blackLiquid Tokyoska.  “I am always interested to see what Fabulous Fashion TV is covering, it gives me a little while to relax, sit back and enjoy some fresh fashion commentary.  I really like Ranena’s personal descriptions for her clothing.  She is quite relatable and I really liked hearing about her inspiration.”

( Grazioso Alekseev )

Another part of the audience is often the designers mentioned during the style segment.  So it wasn’t surprising to see Grazioso Alekseev, owner of Crie Style, present since Kay was presenting her glasses.  Of course, they typically enjoy the rest of the show as well.  “I visited Ranena’s store and enjoyed the designs of ROC fashion many times.  I come to hear the passion of the designer.  Their sense of design is very wonderful!!  I wish to share wonderful times with many designers in SL.”

As always, the photos are provided by Fabulous Fashion Photographer, Sharron Schuman.

You can find more photos from the show onflickr.

Missed the show? You can watch it online, or download it on iTunes.

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Fans of Tyranny

Fabulous Fashion returned to its typical format this week, with Angie Mornington interviewing Tyr Rozenblum of Tyranny Designs.   Tyranny Designs may not be a famous store with outlets all over the Second Life grid, but it was apparent from the audience that it has a loyal following of customers.  And with this appearance on Fabulous Fashion, it’s likely that Tyr’s customer base will grow even more, as evidenced by several of the viewers who were unaware of her work.

( Harlee Lane )

Harlee Lane was present at the show and unfamiliar with Tyranny Designs beforehand.  She was amply impressed with Tyr’s interview.  “I’ve been enjoying the interview with Tyr.  She’s just a delightful lady.  Her designs are vibrant and unique, a reflection of her personality, and it’s nice she cares so much for her customers and values their opinions.  She definitely  has me as a new customer.”

( Anessa Stine, KawaiiNicole Piers, Terri Zhangsun )

Another person introduced to Tyr and her designs this night was that fixture of Second Life fashion, Anessa Stine.  With her busy schedule it’s difficult to keep abreast of every designer, but she’s able to take advantage of Fabulous Fashion from time to time and hear from the guest designers.  “Cute stuff, I don’t think I have seen it before.  I don’t do much shopping these days.  I liked her rationale for the expense of skins and promoting the charitable aspects of the skin and shape expo.”  With the impression Tyr made on Harlee and Anessa among others, it’s no surprise that she has loyal customers.

( Mitch Wisent, Carissa Crimson )

One of Tyr’s fans present was Carissa Crimson.  She has been a customer of Tyranny and was here to learn more about Tyr and enjoyed the interview.  “I think it went well.  It felt comfortable. I love Tyr’s stuff so it was great learning more about her.  I think Angie does an amazing job of putting the guests at ease and she really knows what is important about fashion.”

Once again it was demonstrated how Fabulous Fashion helps to introduce lesser known designers to potential new customers and also helps existing customers connect with and learn about them.  Many people are interested in the people behind the designs they purchase and it’s always interesting to hear how they got involved with Second Life design and to learn where they get their inspirations.

As always, the photos are provided by Fabulous Fashion Photographer, Sharron Schuman.

You can find more photos from the show on flickr.

Missed the show? You can watch it online, or download it on iTunes.

Posted by Angie Mornington | 0 Comments

Content Theft – A Serious Issue

This past week, Fabulous Fashion decided to help bring notice to a serious issue that plagues content designers in Second Life.  Content theft is something that many outside of content creation spend little time thinking about but has the potential to impact us all dramatically.  The recent large scale theft of content at Rebel Hope is drawing some attention to this problem and hopefully shows such as this episode of Fabulous Fashion will draw even more and help others to understand the scale of the problem and concern of content creators.  The studio had one of the largest audiences for this important topic and following are some comments about the show and this topic from a few of the attendants.

( RH Engel )

RH Engel, being connected to Rebel hope as a creator, is naturally upset with the recent theft, but is glad to see the issue getting coverage.  ”I would like to say right now, that I have it is a fantastic topic for this show, it is viewed by so many.  And we need to make people more aware of how this not only hurts content creators, but it hurts everyone in SL in the long run.  Linden Labs does want to help, but personally, I don’t think they help as much as they should.  What would SL be like, if all content creators stopped creating.  It would be a waste land here.”

( Sofia Gray, Sasy Scarborough, Catty Loon )

Not surprisingly, many of those in attendance understood the seriousness of the issue and hope to see more attention brought to bear on it.  Sasy Scarborough echoed much of RH Engel’s sentiment, “Content theft is a drain on not only the economy , but the creativity and passion of its residents. I have seen way too many stolen items being worn by so called fashionistas, and so many new residents, but it is no longer something that can be fobbed off, with a “I didn’t know ” they know and many don’t care.  If you want to do your part , start inspecting everyone and get screenshots and report those wearing and using stolen content and educate yourself and your friends.”

( PennyWhistle Cameron, Kaervek Schultz )

It was also easy to find frustration on the part of some that the problem is still as big as it is.  There is expectation that Linden Labs needs to do more to combat it.  This is evident in the words of PennyWhistle Cameron, “I can’t believe Linden Labs  isn’t more proactive in dealing with theft.  The thieves need to be punished…land taken, accounts closed, inventory confiscated, money cleaned out, and alts traced to their original users.  They’re willing to do cleanup, but continue to allow these tools to be used in the game.”  And frustration often leads to hopelessness.  Where people want to hope the more exposure will help curb the theft, doubt that things will improve remains, “I hope [this show] will [help]…but my gut instinct is it wont.”

As always, the photos are provided by Fabulous Fashion Photographer, Sharron Schuman.

You can find more photos from the show on flickr.

Missed the show? You can watch it online, or download it on iTunes.

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Fans Get a Look Inside AVENUE

The clothing designs, fashion shows and publication are the visible parts of the fashion industry, and often the hard work behind the scenes goes without notice or much thought.  Fabulous Fashion offers viewers the chance to hear about the efforts of people involved in all aspects of this industry.  Most often we get to meet designers and hear about their work and inspirations, but there are many other facets of a successful brand.  This night the fans of Fabulous Fashion were treated to an interview with Rusch Raymaker, Founder & CEO of AVENUE Inc., and Founder & Designer of Stylissimo, and Jesika Contepomi, Chief Marketing Officer of AVENUE Inc. and PR Director of Stylissimo, to give some insight into what goes on inside the various parts of a successful, multi-faceted fashion business.

( Arabella Robonaught )

Opportunities to hear about the work that goes into the promotion of a brand are rare for people outside the industry, but Fabulous Fashion looks to cover the gamut for its fans, and it is appreciated.  Arabella Robonaught summed it up nicely: “… Angie and Paisley are like the Oprah’s of SL.”  This night she learned some interesting facts about AVENUE and saw the Stylissimo Line for the first time, ”I’ve heard of it, I like what I see and would consider purchasing four of the outfits I see on stage.”

( Ludwig Prinz )

Even people whose line of work puts them in touch with the world of fashion are often too busy themselves to keep up on all that goes on, so Fabulous Fashion helps them keep up.  Photographer Ludwig Prinz is well known throughout the fashion world, yet was surprised at what he heard.  “Very interesting to hear about the history of AVENUE, and all the accomplishments, I wasn’t even aware how diversified they are. Pretty amazing to see the growth of Avenue which I have know for a long time.  I think Angie was very engaging, but of course Avenue has such a big history, almost impossible to cover it all.  Rusch and Jesika looked stylish as always, I am happy to have them in my friend’s list.”

( Helena Stringer )

This particular episode was interesting in that it showed how it can be used by others, including a full service agency such as AVENUE, as a promotional tool.  It is a good way to get exposure for a new brand, such as Stylissimo, as the designs are shown on live models and discussed in some depth.  And since fashion styles are extremely varied, especially in Second Life, it is important to present a brand to the widest possible audience.  Some comment from Helena Stringer are an example, “For a first collection, I’d have to say it’s a good start.  I can’t say it’s something I would personally go out and buy myself.  I look for certain qualities in my fashion, in both real life  and SL.  The one that does call to me the most is on Sally. I love colour, and you don’t often see such unusual combinations, as the green and burnished colours.  Sort of Fall like.  For a designer that never created previously to do this collection, it is a good showing,  for the fashion that it is.  My taste or not.”  Even when the quality of the work is recognized and appreciated, the style won’t be desired by everyone, which makes the job of promotion that much more important.

You can find more photos from the show on flickr.

Missed the show? You can watch it online, or download it on iTunes.

Posted by Angie Mornington | 0 Comments

Taking a Glance at Fashion

Glance International Agency celebrated their one year anniversary with an ambitious day of fashion shows and Angie invited GIA CEO Patty Cortes on to share the story of her agency and some details about the event.  Among the large and interested crowd were many fashion industry and media personalities.  One of the big details of International Fashion day that helped to attract the audience was the sponsorship by PR Couture, a real life fashion public relations website.  The bringing together of the real world fashion industry with Second Life is a topic oft discussed among the who’s who of SL fashion and media companies, so the intrigue is to be expected.

(Kat Masarko, Wurlitzer Seisenbacher and Potnia Theas)

Owner of Ora Trei, Potnia Theas was on hand and offered her view of things. “I’m so excited that PR Couture is covering IFD.  I think that second life gives the opportunity to take real life fashion to the next level of creativity.  It requires not only the creative ability, but also graphic design technique.  I think it’s wonderful too that anyone is able to wear couture here for an affordable price as compared to real life.  I think we will [see more RL fashion connections coming to SL].  Fashion is a major part of Second Life.  I think more real life fashion media will begin to notice.”

(Laya Felisimo, Dimitri Shinn and Boe Cortes)

Like most nights, the interesting topics presented on Fabulous Fashion continues to attract new fans.  Laya Felisimo attended her first show this night along Dimitri Shinn.  Like most who see the show live, Laya was impressed.  “Iit was great, very informative and fun. It was great hearing about Glance’s plans for their sim and also Vixie’s fashion spot was great, some great new pieces to look at too.  It’s actually the first time Dimitri and myself have been to the show and seen it.  I’m really impressed and will definately be back to check it out again, it’s more real live then seeing on TV.  It really was such an awesome experince.”

As always, the photos are provided by Fabulous Fashion Photographer, Sharron Schuman.

You can find more photos from the show on flickr.

Missed the show? You can watch it online, or download it on iTunes.