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Where have I been?

First, I will lay the blame of this post entirely on my current course of medication. This, along with other events, will partially explain my absence from my blog and life in general. As I am not one to whinge about personal matters, suffice it to say that my health has been in less than stellar condition of late and we shall simply leave it at that.

Moving right along, I am grateful for my friends and one lady in particular (/me casts a sidelong glance at Lady Pipsqueak Fiddlesticks). A more recent friend, Kulta Hannu, has declared me an enabler with my suggestions of shops for clothing and landscaping — everyone should know that I am only too happy to help others spend their Linden Dollars on fine fashions and foliage. But I will now point my paw at Kulta-chan and cry out: “Enabler!”, for there is nothing more terrifying than two women conspiring against a poor old fox.

Attend… a travesty of epic proportions…

Once upon a time, as the snows melted and gave way to Spring, a lovely Lady suggested to her gothicly-inclined gentleman fox, “I believe it’s time to transform the Physic Garden and Apothecary into a place of dead things, as though abandoned, or that we went mad… very mad.” She continued teasing her gentlefox with delightful dark images of decadence and artful decay.

This gentlefox perked at the idea, very much liking dead and dark things (of the non-tacky variety, that is), and so set about to transform their lands.

A few days ago during a visit from the resident neko and recently made Grounds Manager of Syzygy, Kulta-chan asked with growing concern, “And just how far will the dead spread?”

The gentlefox wished to quip that the dead would spread far and wide across all the lands, but he bit tongue with his lengthy fangs, and merely smiled, pointing to the immediate vicinity.

Believing the neko satisfied with the answer, the gentlefox continued with his work, unaware of the machinations brewing in the cat’s head… nor his Lady’s.

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And so it came to pass this fine evening that the gentlefox’s Lady exclaimed in that come hither voice, “I have something GREAT to show you.”

As a result of Linden Lag, several minutes passed before the true horror of what befell the gentlefox’s dark work dawned upon his furry pale face.

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Flamingos. The Dark One could not have been amused, but it is difficult to say as his relationship is deepest with the Lady of this land, and he would likely do anything for her (even remain still in Winter as she outfitted him with a scarf).

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The Physic Garden and Apothecary had been quite successfully… flamingoed… by Lady Fiddlesticks… enabled by the neko, Kulta Hannu. The Lady was greatly amused, giggling happily like a victorious school girl prankster (which, incidentally, is one of the many reasons the gentlefox likes her so… although the flamingos may be going too far).

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Even Arnold, the gentlefox’s prized albino peacock, was cozying up to one of these frightful pink creatures! As if regular feedings of marshmallows were not enough, his head was actually turned by the bright invaders.

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Betrayer! Defiant, mocking peacock. “I know a nearby campire at the beach that will enjoy your marshmallows henceforth!” the gentlefox vowed.

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Alas, this gentlefox can only resign himself to his fate. And the flamingos.

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Please visit Syzygy Selene: Physic Garden & Apothecary — with flamingos to bear witness to this travesty.

Other Details:

Flamingos, cunningly fashioned: Yo, flamingo! nr1 *pink* by Antonia Marat of Artilleri (in the off-chance that my humour is lost on some readers, I do seriously believe that these flamingos are actually quite awesome and if anyone is every in need of flamingos, Artilleri is likely THE purveyor of flamingo love).
Ensemble: Viktor by Darwin Mizser of AVid
Monocle: GC-Monokel (Dark-Knight clock) by Grazioso Alekseev of Crie Style

Fox avatar

• Avatar – Male White Fox by Mephitis Jezebel of Aventity
• Hair – The Dauphin (Powdered) by Siyu Suen of Illusions

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Background

I often say that avatars come in all shapes and sizes, and it is this variety that maintains avatar diversity Second Life, which in turn is what makes Second Life such a fantastic realm to explore. However, for some, as it was for myself, creating a pleasing shape shortly after entering Second Life can be a daunting task. Nearly three years ago, whilst travelling the Grid with newbie eyes wide open, I observed that most males had extremely broad shoulders and thick limbs that would put Arnold Schwarzenegger to shame. Moreover, most men’s heads were either far too small or even too large for their bodies – usually the former.

I suspect it’s not uncommon to fashion a shape in Second Life that you have always wished for yourself in Real Life, whether it’s a serious pursuit or purely fantasy. We all have our desires and about three years ago it seemed to me that the “muscle-man” was quite in vogue and dominated the world with his Atlas physique. This, however, was not my ideal image for SL, as I had a suspicion that I would be wishing to drape Victorian and Elegant Gothic Aristocratic fashions over my body and thusly began mentally forming the image of a Gentleman with a slight and European build.

I attempted to play with the body shape sliders on my own, and the results were disastrous. While I know artists in RL, and understood the most basic concepts of body proportions, I never thought to actually research such information on the Internet to use as a basis for creating a properly proportioned body shape. Mind, I could barely rez a prim in those days either, so I’m uncertain how effective harnessing this knowledge would have been for myself.

Since then, there have been a couple blog posts about body shape proportions, one of which I will link to from here for the benefit of anyone curious about body shape proportions. I should also perhaps clarify that at this juncture I am referring to human body shapes. As a furry or non-human, pretty much anything goes but I do like to proportion my fox self after humanoid proportions as well.

What I did discover, that assisted me greatly three years ago, was that I could purchase a pre-made shape. I decided that if I could find a shape that most closely resembled my ideal, I could then tweak that shape to satisfaction. And so began my quest. There were very few shape shops for men and only one that I came across purveyed an extensive collection of shapes. This was Q-designs by quintin Kostolany (still in business today, I discovered). Three years ago he offered up his collection in a basement warehouse setting and I remember spending hours upon hours trying to determine which shape would suit me. Nearly all the shapes for purchase featured heavily muscled men. I remember searching for key words like “bishounen”, hoping to locate a Japanese creator, but three years ago, I had little luck; this has since changed and bishounen shapes are more readily found. I believe there was one shop that had slighter build shapes, but they did not satisfy my needs.

I finally settled on Q-designs’ “Slave” – no comments from the peanut gallery, please and thank you (/me laughs). Slave to fashion, yes, I will concede on that point. This allowed me to work from a creator’s shape, and from solid proportions. At least that was what I was hoping. I never thought to verify at the time, and simply began tweaking my Body Parts appearance sliders. I have since adjusted my height now and then, on a whim, as well as making a few other subtle changes along the way, and now am left wondering if I am at all still, or ever was, proportioned according to average human norms.

Self Study

Using the guides I have found on the Internet (links below), I will now perform a quick analysis of my various body shapes. In order to measure my body in heads, I simply rezzed a box prim, set the transparency to 10, and then resized to the top of my head and bottom of my chin. I shift dragged downward new copies to measure my body height in heads.

Original Slave body shape by SlaveTo Demain via Q-designs

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Rather than the standard proportion of 6-8 heads high, this shape puts me at 10 heads in height. The head seems well proportioned with eyes, ears, nose and mouth. The elbows seem to be well above the waist rather than at the waist – clearly the upper torso is too long for conventional proportions. The arms could also be a little longer although this would likely occur if the torso were shortened.

My current human body shape

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It would appear that after tweaking my shape originally over two years ago, I am still 10 heads in height. My nose is perhaps a little higher than it should be. Elbows are likewise too far above the waist. Essentially, apart from some cosmetic changes, I did not alter the proportions at all.

Another round of tweaking

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I managed to reduce myself to 9 heads in height with improved proportions, but now I feel stocky in stature, which is uncomfortable for me. I maintained my height, increased my head size, increased my arm length, and dramatically decreased my torso length and leg length. This is definitely not suitable for me.

And yet one more round of tweaking

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This is perhaps a little more to my liking. The general body proportions are improved over my current body shape, and I still maintain the torso length that I desire. While not perfect in terms of proper human proportions, it will have to do (at least for another couple years until I venture this way again).

And for amusement, my fox self

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It would appear that I managed to tweak my fox’s shape quite well. I confess that I went through a few renditions before settling on this shape, but have been using this shape for quite some time.

Attaining a Well-Proportioned Body Shape for the Slider Challenged

Yes, avatars come in all shapes and sizes, and while overall proportions are not hard and fast rules, I believe people should be encouraged to create whatever they wish in the end. But for those like myself who are terrified of body shape sliders, and who also wish to maintain a semblance of average body proportions, I offer the following suggestions:

1. Review the following links regarding body proportions:

* Diagram for Human Proportions

* Proportion and Second Life Models

2. Acquire a pre-made body shape that most closely approximates your ideal body shape.
3. Bearing in mind the above regarding proportions, carefully experiment with the sliders to achieve your desired results. Try not to veer too far from 50 on most of the slider points.  And most importantly: Save copies of your modified shape along the way so that you can easily revert to an earlier shape if your tweaking is not satisfactory.

I would also like to reiterate that a perfectly proportioned avatar is not a must as humans are not all perfectly proportioned in RL.

Sources for Men’s Body Shapes

Ensure that the body shape you purchase has modify permissions – unless you desire the designer’s exact body shape.

• XStreet listing of male body shapes
• Q-designs by quintin Kostolany
• MADesigns by Maddox Dupont
• kOwP by Skyler Melnik
• Ax by Angelx Faith
• The Body Politik by Maximillion Grant
• Noon by Noon Twine
• Sophistishapes by Sophia Rossen
• Adora Shapes by Emaleigh Guyot

Happy shaping. And if anyone knows of any other shape tutorials or resources, please let me know so that I may post links here.

Other Details:

Pajamas: (men’s)(batties) pajammies pants by hyasynth Tiramisu of Silent Sparrow

Photos taken in my home… somewhere.

Human avatar

• Hair – Elliot (LightBlond) by Six Kennedy of GuRL 6
• Skin – Scorpio Revelation (3A Smooth) by Khai Sinister of The Abyss
• Eyes – Blue Opal by Miriel Enfield of Miriel (very sadly retired)

Fox avatar

• Avatar – Male White Fox by Mephitis Jezebel of Aventity
• Hair – The Dauphin (Powdered) by Siyu Suen of Illusions

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First, I would like to make a public apology to Calamity’s creator, Ariel Zuhal, for inferring severe malcontent with one of her creations in one of my recent blog posts. My intent is never to malign – if it were, I would write day and night about creators and creations that are not sympathetic to consumers, but that is seriously not my desire. I would sooner spend money on amazing outfits and share my findings with my fellow fashion-lovers.

Returning to Ms. Zuhal’s concern that my commentary would adversely affect her image or sales, I do not believe that is the case for I am not widely-read and hopefully my readers know to take much of what I say with a serious grain of salt (I point people to my Disclaimer). However, I did make an error in not being specific enough regarding my review. I took exception with the erratic permissions and script resizers used in the one ensemble of hers that I reviewed. All but two attachments were listed as no mod, and I failed to mention this fact along with my diatribe of anguish regarding no mod attachments. The other two items both bore different script resizers. While my points, in my opinion, were valid, they would lead the casual reader to believe that Ms. Zuhal had misrepresented her clothing which she did NOT. Items were exactly as she described and it was my personal problem and issue with one item in particular that did not allow for modification. I therefore apologize for unknowingly misrepresenting this fact.

I would also like to reiterate that Calamity’s ensemble reviewed by myself was also very much enjoyed (and even sparked some kind words from others as I roamed the Grid), even though I took exception to the no mod aspects and the resizer scripts employed throughout. It is always my hope that a creator will release items with permissions that make the ensembles more flexible, and that is my hope here. I will also add that Ms. Zuhal very kindly offered me a mod version of the suit, which I am quite grateful for. She is correct in that people should simply write a creator and ask for mod permissions before ranting and raving. This is true. Although after being repeatedly and firmly told “no” by most creators, I grow weary of asking. Again, I should have inquired rather than assumed. You can teach an old fox old tricks.

I will state, at this time, that I do not use this blog as a platform to portray perfection and “OMG this is so great, and this is why”. I will be honest in my reviews. I do like everything I review for some reason or another, but I will not remain silent about those aspects I find bothersome, whether it’s the construct of coat tails, texturing laziness, death by script resizers etc. If I only blogged perfection, my blog would mirror Silent Sparrow’s blog and then there would be no point for me to blog. While most other reviewers focus solely on the positives, I feel that omitting negatives is being a little less than honest. But that’s me. I am critical. But I am also passionate about fashion.

And so… speaking of things that get me hot under the collar – clothing permissions!

I’m coming up on three years in Second Life and I still waffle on my stance as to what is best with respect to apparel permissions. I respect that creators cannot make two sets (one with copy/mod/no trans and one with no copy/no mod/trans) for each ensemble – that’s ridiculous. I’ve seen this discussion come up time and time again in the forums as well and there are pros and cons to both sets of permissions. The only con to copy/mod/no trans that I have been able to understand is that the ensemble cannot be sold if it’s no transfer. I don’t know who sells or gives away their clothes, but I presume they number in a high percentage as this seems to be a sticking point. I never intend on “selling my stuff”, so I do not care about transferability – but that’s just my personal preference.

Along came script resizers to cure the need for modify (so it was thought), but we know how well that has worked and my thoughts on that subject. This is a horse that I really need to leave be as it’s in danger of rising from the dead a third time.

However, there are those who do not understand the need for copy and/or modify in clothing. For them I offer the following reasons off the top of my head:

• You have an ensemble’s attachments that do not fit your avatar properly (usually belts, collars, cuffs, hats, etc.).
• You have several different avatars of varying sizes and it’s a right royal pain in the backside to constantly modify attachments for each avatar.
• Your avatar already utilizes numerous attachment points and you need to attach one item to another in order to wear both – both items will need to be modify for this to work.
• Your avatar is a non human that needs to shorten trousers or shirts in order to portray a proper image.
• You need to match something to another something and it would be great to add a little bit of colour tint to make the entire outfit perfect. This, I understand, is most creators’ reason for not allowing modify – they do not wish their creative image to be tampered with in any way. However, I maintain that most people would never modify the colour tint of an ensemble and for those few who do, wouldn’t a creator want a consumer advertising billboard who has that much attention to detail and who enjoys showing off their latest look?

Modify is really essential in a virtual world, for constructing your image. Copy is very helpful for those such as myself that body/avatar swap. Again, I do respect those who need transfer permissions but I will always desire modify permissions at the very least.

Unfortunately, some creators opt for no mod and the use of script resizers because they fear infringement (aka the copybot). This does not stop copying (is that horse dead for the fourth time yet?). The latest in anti-theft prevention is to render an item unusable if it is rezzed (as opposed to worn). This alerts the creator that there has been a “violation”. This has also spawned a whole new griefing activity called “spam the creator by rezzing dozens of their demos in short succession”. It is my hope that this madness will end in the near future. Why does an item need to be rezzed rather than worn? See my point above regarding linking two items together to wear both simultaneously.

Alright, enough whingeing from me. I will hopefully have some reviews forthcoming this week.

On a final note, I have learned the following: be more clear and despite the agony of “no”, and contact the creator first.

However, this past weekend, timing was good for Shenlei Flasheart’s Mainely Men Corporate Menswear event. And so I went, accompanied by my Lady, Pipsqueak Fiddlesticks. The models and attendees were very congenial. The environment, while a little different (and I do like the unique), was skillfully arranged, and quite ingenious. Although it may seem unusual to view models showcasing corporate fashion wares in the midst of a forest, the experience was extremely pleasant.

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While I do understand the idea that if I have nothing nice to say, I should not say anything at all, I have no compunctions regarding offering an honest critique when I am compelled; and I am currently compelled. I am sorry to say that I was quite unimpressed with Shenlei Flasheart’s corporate clothing line, which I was lead to believe would be “the thing to wear” by real corporate businessmen in SL.

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I do know that not everyone can create fashions with prims, but even those who cannot and purport to be experienced designers, often do reasonably well with texturing system clothing templates. Unfortunately, this was not the case with the Mainely Men Corporate Menswear line (I confess I am unfamiliar with Shenlei Flasheart’s clothing offerings, never having heard of her before). Never mind the fact that all the ensembles were exactly styled, only using different textures, the textures themselves were misaligned along the seams and the jacket lapels suffered a serious unattractive burn. I do not believe that even some time spent on one’s office treadmill would cause such off-putting discolouration from perspiration.

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Granted, not everyone can be a great fashion designer. And I fully support hobbies and people doing the best that they can.  SL is nothing if not cathartic and a wondrous place to play.  I only wish that my available time would coordinate better with exhibits featuring designers of truly magnificent fashions. Some day… some day.

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Shocking as it may be that I am looking down upon a fashion designer, I have always maintained, particularly in my blog, that I will offer unabashed, honest opinions. And as much as I would like to fill my blog with my favourites and those I have high regard for, I believe in also spending some time discussing that which I do not care for; be it personal taste or simply disapproval of technique — even this information has its uses, if nothing else to provide guidance to others. And those I have previously criticized, have all understood my reasons and taken my comments in stride.

So as not to be completely negative about the state of corporate menswear in SL (for, despite my personal preferences, I am aware of other creators who provide non-EGA fashion), I would like to offer up a few suggestions to those who do wish to maintain a modern corporate image in this virtual world. You will likely not be disappointed with the quality of the following designers and their wares:

• Shiryu Musashi of Musashi-Do
• Swaffette Firefly of sf Designs
• Edo Tone of Styles of edo
• Aragane Nishi of Hasendow
• Paul Lapointe of Lapointe & BastChild

Just to name a few off the top of my head.  Happy shopping.

[Reel Expression's Sultry 03 - click image for larger view]

While I am not the most creative or formidable photographer (although I have learned some things over time, and need to learn much more), I do enjoy blogging about ensembles and whatever happens to move me at any given time. For this blog, however, I like to use my Photosphere and the poses I’ve set up within. And while I slowly add more backdrops over time, finding more poses that offer the variety I’d like is growing increasingly difficult. However, among my 300 plus poses, are those I return to time and time again. But of course I want more…

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This is where I keep my photosphere; high above the grounds of Syzygy Pyxis (one sim of a four-sim Island, which I call home). As Syzygy is a bit of a themed region where space is space, I appropriately ensconced my photosphere inside this planetoid.

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This is the interior of my photo planetoid. As you can see it is very roomy and houses two photospheres (one for singles and one for couples), as well as two book displays with poses, which are tremendous fun to take photos within (thank you, Lady PF, for the use of these).

The photo planetoid is open to everyone. Please visit any time and enjoy the space. Of course, let me know if you encounter any issues.

[Izumiya's SS Pose Male 01 - click image for larger view]

This is a very recent acquisition and so far I’m really enjoying Izumiya’s poses. Offering male and female poses. As an aside, I noticed in my search for poses the other night that there are more male poses in SL than previously; so naturally I’m pleased about this. However, the difficulty is in finding male poses that I can use without looking like I have a 2×4 rammed up my backside or John Wayne getting ready for a showdown. Mr. Stetson I am not.

[Izumiya's SS Pose Male 19 - click image for larger view]

Another Izumiya, and playful too. Talk to the hand! I really need to find more playful poses! I’ll search when I have time and present my findings in a follow-up blog entry.

[Long Awkward Pose's Awmahgah - click image for larger view]

I need to investigate this creator more. I did venture to Long Awkward Pose’s shop on the weekend but was lagged out by an event going on so could not investigate much beyond the door (gorgeous shop though). This is one that came through to me via the Designer Showcase Network. I enjoy it immensely it for its sheer expressiveness and playfulness.  Alternatively, I look a bit like I’ve just had one hell of a day in my apothecary lab.

[Essential Soul's Poseur - click image for larger view]

This is another recent acquisition, from Essential Soul. They had a nice selection of male poses and while most were not quite what I was looking for, I did buy this one series and very much enjoy the poses within.

[Reel Expression's Material Girls 01 - click image for larger view]

Most of the time I fall back to Reel Expressions poses, male and female. They truly are expressive and range from mild to wild, serious to playful. Her recent gun poses are pushing me towards the acquisition of a pair of BlackOps Alucard Pistols or H&K USPs. While worth every linden, I tend to slide my money in the direction of apparel first, and after nearly three years on The Grid, remain without the BlackOps beauties (but that may change soon).

[Reel Expression's Melancholy 11 - click image for larger view]

The Melancholy series is nicely expressive as well. A little sombre, but very useful by myself.

[Reel Expressions' Men's Fashion S2 05 - click image for larger view]

I believe there are now three specifically men’s fashion pose sets now. For myself, definitely worth having.

[Reel Expressions' Men's Sultry 10 - click image for larger view]

A little more playful by my standards, and therefore definitely an asset. As I said, using Reel Expression’s female poses is not something I shy away from as they really can serve all genders.

I have some upgrades planned for my Photosphere; adding more backdrops (all my added backdrops are under the Custom category menu, for those who visit), and a new posing stand that will provide organized sets of poses rather than having to forward through 300 plus before you find just the right one! Thank you, Hya, for that tip last night.

As I’ve only presented here a small sampling of the poses I use, find below a list of pose creators that I currently use and if you blog or model, may find useful for yourself. Moreover, if you have a favourite that is not listed here, please tell me about it as I’m always on the lookout for more!

Credits:

Photosphere by Saeya Nyanda of Kyoot.

Single pose posing stand — to be replaced!

Couples pose posing stand by Puck Ida.

Book displays by sato Yifu of Kurotsubaki.

Boudoir Rouge poses by CodeBastard Redgrave.

Essential Soul Studio poses by Steven Dean.

Reel Expressions poses by Luth Brodie.

Izumiya poses by Izumi Homewood.

Long Awkward Pose poses by Dove Swanson.

Lazy Places poses by Sakuradawn Lei.

Digital Dragon Designs poses by Ninja Petion.

Other Details:

Suit: Severin by hyasynth Tiramisu of Silent Sparrow

Gloves: Aconite Gloves by hyasynth Tiramisu of Silent Sparrow

Monocle: SLC by Kirin Xeno of Serious Giggle

Dagger & Syringe: ~SA~ Another Poison – blue by Insania Aeon (very sadly retired)

Photos taken in My Photosphere

Fox avatar

• Avatar – Male White Fox by Mephitis Jezebel of Aventity
• Hair – The Dauphin (Powdered) by Siyu Suen of Illusions

Sunday evening, however, I found myself weary minded from working all weekend and ventured into SL for a spot of relaxation. I was immediately invited to an impromptu shoppe soiree by the lovely hyasynth Tiramisu of Silent Sparrow. Of course I learned that I missed a Silent Sparrow new release (more commentary from myself on this later this week, I hope), and there was some discussion regarding upgrading my fox avatar.

In all my travels I have never seen anyone else with the same fox avatar base as the one I’ve had for well over a year. But I have, for some time, felt that an update would be in order — something that takes advantage of newer SL technologies. Hya had previously nudged me in the direction of an Aventity fox, and I concurred it would be a sound purchase (the tail is floofier, and we know it’s all about the tail) I look at fox avatars periodically, and these are definitely some of the best I’ve seen.

In any event, after upgrading the base avatar, I thought perhaps I would upgrade my hair as well. For fox I am partial to 18th century wigs, as they aid in solidifying my desired gentlefoxly image. I thought I had found the perfect wig! Sanders Beaumont of FDL’s Duke Wig 2.0. It’s truly a marvel and is available in a short and long ponytail version (honestly, I thought I was in hair heaven). However, the creator informed me the wig was no mod (after being surprised that a fur would wear a wig — why not? Do people think all furs run around with no more fashion sense than Rambo?), but it was resizable with a script.

I’m really beginning to despise these resizing scripts. They’re an excellent idea, to be certain, but I beg creators to also make the components modify. I am a part time fur. My head is not human size, and typical resizing is not going to work well. Mr. Beaumont informed me that his wigs were no mod to protect his sculpt maps. This is a stance that absolutely amazes me. First of all, if I were a thief, I would not introduce myself to the creator. Secondly, I’d simply buy the wig, and use one of the several systems available that will strip all textures, sculpt maps, and even prims, from the design. And do I look like a content thieving bastard? Read my profile! Good lord.

I ran into the same issue with some boots that I wished to buy a few months ago. Resize yes, no mod. Such creators will not see my Lindens in future, sadly. Creators applying no mod to certain pivotal pieces (especially hair) are doing nothing but adversely affecting their sales, as anyone with nefarious intentions will be able to pirate the wares regardless of permissions. The regular shopper, a creator’s bread and butter, suffers. But I can make a choice, as much as it pains me to not spread my money around — and that is simply to not shoppe at such establishments. While I spend money madly in SL, and I am only one, perhaps in time others will see that these items are not worth purchasing and then never using — better to not purchase in the first place.

I’m a little ranty this morning, aren’t I? Well… I’ve been in SL long enough to know what I want and observe the bizarre tactics of its denizens.

As for my new fox… I am using The Dauphin (White) by Siyu Suen of Illusions (the same as my blond wig for my previous fox), although modified to bring the curls outward to frame my furry face. Pictures forthcoming.

And lastly, to clothing and accessory creators out there: please make the following modify even if you have a resizer script (both would be excellent) — trousers (their length may require adjusting, especially if one is a fur), shoes/boots, hats, hair/wigs, prim attachments, spectacles, and walking sticks/canes. Thank you.

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Further to yesterday’s blog regarding a gentlemanly AO, I have spent considerable time combining the Gentleman Jim and Irresistible Male AOs to what I feel is a pleasing effect. While results and preferences will vary between individuals, I pass the contents of two notecards on to you for your use if you so desire:

Without a Cane

[ Standing ]VAmocap1FP2|VASmocap5P2|Gentle Jim 1-4|VAmocap5FP2|VASmocap4P2|VAmocap2FP2|Gentle Jim 2-2|Gentle Jim 3-4|Gentle Jim 4-3
[ Standing ]Gentle Jim 5-1|VASmocap2P2|VASmocap3P2
[ Walking ]VAmocwalk1.3handsB
[ Sitting ]VAmocAsit1b|VAmocAsit2|Gentle Jim Sit 1-3|VAmocAsit3|VAmocAsit5.1
[ Sitting On Ground ]VAmocAgsit5|VAmocGsit1.4F|VAmocGsit1.1F|VAmocGsit3F
[ Crouching ]VA08CROUNCH2
[ Crouch Walking ]VAmocCROUNCHWALK2
[ Landing ]VANEKLAND
[ Standing Up ]Gent Rise 1-0
[ Falling ]Gent Fall 1-0
[ Flying Down ]VAmocFDOWN2
[ Flying Up ]VAmocFUP
[ Flying ]VAmocFLIGHT2
[ Flying Slow ]VAmocFSLOW
[ Hovering ]Gent Float 1-0
[ Jumping ]VAmocJUMP3
[ Pre Jumping ]VAmocPREJ
[ Running ]VISTARUN
[ Turning Right ]Gentle Jim Turn Right 1-1
[ Turning Left ]Gentle Jim Turn Left 1-1
[ Floating ]FLOAT
[ Swimming Forward ]VA.DIVE
[ Swimming Up ]su
[ Swimming Down ]sd
[ Typing ]Cane Typing 1-1

With a Cane

[ Standing ]VAmocap1FP2|VASmocap5P2|Cane Stand 1-0|VAmocap5FP2|VASmocap4P2|VAmocap2FP2|Gentle Jim 2-2|Cane Stand 2-0|Cane Stand 3-0
[ Standing ]Cane Stand 6-3|VASmocap2P2|VASmocap3P2
[ Walking ]Cane Walk 1-10
[ Sitting ]Cane Sit 1-0|VAmocAsit1b|VAmocAsit2|VAmocAsit3
[ Sitting On Ground ]VAmocAgsit5|VAmocGsit1.4F|VAmocGsit1.1F|VAmocGsit3F
[ Crouching ]VA08CROUNCH2
[ Crouch Walking ]VAmocCROUNCHWALK2
[ Landing ]VANEKLAND
[ Standing Up ]Gent Rise 1-0
[ Falling ]Gent Fall 1-0
[ Flying Down ]Swan Dive 1-0 Fist
[ Flying Up ]VAmocFUP
[ Flying ]Gent Fly 1-0
[ Flying Slow ]VAmocFSLOW
[ Hovering ]Gent Float 1-1
[ Jumping ]Cane Jump 1-0
[ Pre Jumping ]VAmocPREJ
[ Running ]Run 1-4
[ Turning Right ]Gentle Jim Turn Right 1-1
[ Turning Left ]Gentle Jim Turn Left 1-1
[ Floating ]FLOAT
[ Swimming Forward ]VA.DIVE
[ Swimming Up ]su
[ Swimming Down ]sd
[ Typing ]Cane Typing 3-0

[click for larger image]

Instructions

• Purchase the above two AOs.
• Create two separate notecards using the text above beneath the headers, name them as desired (i.e. w/ cane & w/out cane).
• Pull the animations out of the Gentleman Jim AO (you will need to edit linked parts to pull the typing animations out of the typing prim of the Gentleman Jim AO).
• Rez the Irresistible Male AO (make a copy first) and copy the Gentleman Jim animations and the aforementioned two notecards into the Irresistible Male AO.
• You may, if you wish, remove any unused animations and notecards from the AO, but it is not necessary.
• Do not delete the Irresistible Male’s default notecard in case you wish to use that AO exclusively.
• Pull the Irresistible Male AO into inventory (I suggesting renaming it before doing so — i.e. Personal AO V1.0).
• Wear & Enjoy (load either with or without cane notecards as required)!
• Tinker and modify over time as desired.

Other Details:

Shirt – King Of Hearts Suit Shirt White by Azriel Demain of Falln
Cuffs – King Of Hearts Suit Cuffs White by Azriel Demain of Falln
Jabot – Elric Suit Jabot White by Azriel Demain of Falln
Trousers, socks and waistcoat – Lord Edward Baroque Suit Chocolate by Nicky Ree of Designing Nicky Ree
Shoes – b_Montgolfier shoe (buckle retextured and shoe retinted) by Arundelain Dumart of Arundel Design
Gloves – FORTISSIMO Gloves, White by Nix Sands of XNT
Cane – Gentlemen’s Fancy Clear Cane by Kheph777 Enoch of Kheph’s Creations
Monocle – GC-Monokel (Dark-Knight clock) by Grazioso Alekseev of Guild of Crie Eyewear

Photos taken in My home on Syzygy Selene

Fox avatar

• Avatar – Arctic Fox by Cheetah Kitty
• Hair – The Dauphin (Blonde) by Siyu Suen of Illusions

[click for larger image - one of Posture is Everything's original stand animations]

While clothes may make the man, an inappropriate Animation Override (AO) may negate any desired impression one wishes to give and I therefore attribute to an AO a very close second in terms of importance after clothes. The default walk we are born into this world with makes us appear as though we are comprised of popsicle sticks bound together with electrical tape, and the recently added male walk is not much improved.

[click for larger image - one of VISTA's stand animations]

For the new to SL, I suggest the acquisition of a single new walk before spending money on a complete AO system. Abranimations has an extensive selection of cost effective and acceptable walking animations. Once someone has been in SL a sufficient enough time to determine their character or the impression they wish to give, then forge ahead with researching an appropriate AO.

[click for larger image - one of Posture is Everything's stand animations]

If one is searching for an AO that would befit a gentlemen, the choices become increasingly limited. There is much available if one wishes to be a “boy in the ‘hood”, neko, casual or even a sexually charged muscular dynamo, but the selection of AOs geared towards the gentleman are very few and far between.

[click for larger image - one of VISTA's ground sit animations]

The general rule of thumb that “you get what you pay for” almost always applies for AOs. I have purchased a fair number during the past couple of years and by and large have discovered quality is usually proportional to price, so do not waste your Lindens on an AO for less than about L$1,000. However, buyer beware, and anything exceeding the aforementioned should be trialed by way of an animation display stand.

[click for larger image - one of Posture is Everything's hover animations]

For a couple of years, the only truly gentleman’s inspired AO was created by Kamilah Hauptmann of Posture Is Everything. Her first incarnation of the Gentleman Jim AO was superb with an easy to use HUD interface. The animations were few, but well crafted with the animated stands cycling seamlessly.

[click for larger image - Posture is Everything's tail end typing animation]

Recently, Miss Hauptmann released the second generation of the Gentleman Jim AO. Unfortunately, despite having animated stands for those of us sporting a walking stick (which I do most of the time), I was a little less impressed with aspects of it. The typing animation which makes me appear as though I am delivering a sermon or pleading for relief from some ruffians can be disabled through the HUD, which is helpful (although the initial typing animation is quite nice and it is a loss). Nicely done, one can load either the regular Gentleman Jim AO or the Gentleman Jim AO for use with a walking stick – most useful. Now included are some elegant hovers, a hat tip and sits as well. No one offers up gentlemanly animations as well as Miss Hauptmann.

[click for larger image - one of VISTA's walking animations (hands behind the back and one of my favourites)]

Desirous, however, of a more complete AO with increasing options, particularly suiting a gentleman, I set out on another search. As previously mentioned, the world is replete with AOs for the overtly masculine, the casual man, and the neko boy, while quality elegance is nigh impossible to find. I did, however, find an AO (Irresistible Male 1.5 by Vista Barnes of VISTA Animations) that offered a retinue of options and high quality animations quite suitable for the gentleman (with some flexibility for the gentleman who likes to take a walk along darker alleyways on occasion). While the price tag may be prohibitive to some, a quality AO is a sound investment and unless you enjoy swapping out new AOs regularly, the purchase should last a long time (I had used the same AO for about two years quite contentedly before I felt a need for a little change).

[click for larger image - one of Posture is Everything's new cane stand animations]

The VISTA AO’s HUD is the most complete of any I’ve seen and extremely easy to use. One can select their default pre-jump, jump, flight, sit, ground sit and much more from several available. One can even add one’s own animations acquired elsewhere (which is what I intend to do as Miss Hauptmann’s animations still hold great appeal to myself). Easily remove the stands and other animations you do not desire. Creating a custom AO with the Irresistible Male as a basis, highlighted with Miss Hauptmann’s latest Gentleman Jim AO will provide you with an AO that suits your gentlemanly image.

[click for larger image - one of VISTA's sitting animations]

Naturally, if I had my druthers, I would like to see additional animation variations for the gentleman by either of the above mentioned creators, but the Gentleman Jim and Irresistible Male AO are the most compatible I have thus far found.

[click for larger image - Kheph777 Enoch's Gentlemen's Fancy Clear Cane animation overriding the AO]

One final mention, as a lover of walking sticks; most canes provide their own series of animations (one or more), and these will sometimes override an AO’s stand or vice versa. It is an imperfect world, but for the extremely fastidious, having one AO to use with a cane and one without is likely the best solution. Time consuming, but then again, your image is everything in a virtual world.

[click for larger image - Kheph777 Enoch's Gentlemen's Fancy Clear Cane animation being overriden by the AO]

My suggestion is as follows:

For new residents: Locate an acceptable walk at Abranimations.

For residents awaiting their fortune: Acquire the Gentleman Jim.

For residents who come in to some wealth: Acquire the Irresistible Male.

For residents who have amassed their fortune: Acquire both the Gentleman Jim and the Irresistible Male, combining them as desired for your personalized gentlemanly projection.

/me tips his cane in your general direction.

Other Details:

Shirt – King Of Hearts Suit Shirt White by Azriel Demain of Falln
Cuffs – King Of Hearts Suit Cuffs White by Azriel Demain of Falln
Jabot – Elric Suit Jabot White by Azriel Demain of Falln
Trousers, socks and waistcoat – Lord Edward Baroque Suit Chocolate by Nicky Ree of Designing Nicky Ree
Shoes – b_Montgolfier shoe (buckle retextured and shoe retinted) by Arundelain Dumart of Arundel Design
Gloves – FORTISSIMO Gloves, White by Nix Sands of XNT
Cane – Gentlemen’s Fancy Clear Cane by Kheph777 Enoch of Kheph’s Creations
Monocle – GC-Monokel (Dark-Knight clock) by Grazioso Alekseev of Guild of Crie Eyewear

Photos taken in My Photosphere

Fox avatar

• Avatar – Arctic Fox by Cheetah Kitty
• Hair – The Dauphin (Blonde) by Siyu Suen of Illusions

I do realize that some creators are likely attempting to project a contrast between clothing pieces by accenting a coat in silver and a vest in brass, but I do not feel such endeavours enhance the image of the entire ensemble. Such contrasts, if desired, are best fashioned by clever fabric texturing and styling. I’ve also contemplated that designers are using specific textures for the sake of simply using them without regard to metal clash over the entire outfit.

[Unzipped's Crimson Night Victorian Male -- click for larger image]

Unfortunately (for me), I’ve been seeing this metal combining in several outfits recently released. After my purchase of Unzipped’s Crimson Night Victorian Male, while a reasonably well put together ensemble, I was disappointed with the overall look due to the brass and silver accoutrement combination. Certainly, aspects can be worn with other outfits, and I even found tipping the metal scales with the inclusion of pocket watches or canes composed of one or the other metal diminished the distraction, but in the end I was still dissatisfied.

What prompted this blog post was AVID’s latest release, Black Heart. I’ve been a fan of AVID’s creations since nearly day one of their operation. The last couple of outfits (not since Verne, and Verne is a fabulous ensemble) have not thrilled me. When I initially laid eyes on Black Heart, of course the coat and cloak set me immediately into the realm of “must have, must TP now and buy”, but then I continued looking at the promo picture, attempting to figure out what caused me to pause. The reason was the contrasting metallic buttons — brass and silver. Had the ensemble been less expensive, I would have purchased it for the coat and cloak alone, but L$890 is a little steep for that.

[AVID's Black Heart -- click for larger image]

And so, I simply pressed Ctrl+H on my keyboard and returned home, without a new ensemble. It is my hope that AVID’s next men’s release will have me excited once more and that designers will be a little more mindful regarding clashing accoutrement metals.

Then again, it could simply just be me and I’m missing the next fashion trend. And if that is the case, I may have limited the quantity of new clothing acquisition in my future! The horror!

Other Details:

Photo taken in My Photosphere

[Falln's Roesor Suit and Shiny Things Socks - click for larger image]

I had the joy of conversing with hyasynth Tiramisu of Silent Sparrow last night. We discussed socks and my dilemma concerning the aforementioned accessory. She relayed to me why she does not include socks in every set of suits. She said that she “feel(s) like (she is) cheating if she put(s) in the same socks”. While this is commendable, as the socks she does include are excellent, I explained to her that I would be content with the same basic sock style if a specific style was not deemed useful for the ensemble. I do believe she thinks me mad. She feels it is unethical to offer the same socks, but I beg to differ. Mind, others may have a different point of view on the sock conundrum.

[Shiny Thing's Knit knee socks - dark]

Hya did inform me that Shiny Things had knee socks (for women) that would be suitable for men. So I ventured out and found their knit socks to be quite to taste.

They are copy/modify, so can be shortened. I’m uncertain how one’s partner might find their gentleman in knee length socks (mind, some fashions do require it, I will concede) if trouser removal occurred. Copy as you like to any other necessary folders of suits. Being modifiable, they can be tinted to taste.

[Shiny Thing's Knit knee socks - dark]

To be fair, I did also perform a seach in world for “socks” (Search> Classifieds> Socks). I don’t recommend the journey that it will take you on for I have now seen far more in SL than I perhaps ever wanted. However, I will say that there are a few creators who produce just socks, but none worth noting for gentleman. This is not to say they do not exist, but quite simply they are beyond my radar.

In conclusion… I might have garnered some sympathy from Hya regarding the gentleman’s plight of socks in Second Life.

Other Details:

Photos taken in My Photosphere

Human avatar

• Hair – Elliot (LightBlond) by Six Kennedy of GuRL 6
• Skin – Scorpio Revelation (3A Smooth) by The Abyss
• Eyes – Blue Opal by Miriel Enfield of Miriel

[RFyre's Soleil]

Comments:

“For me, socks are like sex – tonnes of it about and I never seem to get any.”
– Prince George, Blackadder the Third

As Prince George was so often denied his socks (courtesy of Blackadder’s entrepreneurial spirit), so are we in SL denied our socks. Although I hardly think Blackadder is involved… but one never knows as he does get around.

Socks — one of the simpler pieces of system clothing on the avatar. Why then are socks not often included in suits? This is a question that has plagued me for some time.

I own 191 complete ensembles (as of writing this), and only 24 were accompanied by socks. These are not encouraging results.

[AVID's Midnight]

Would it not be a simple matter for a creator to apply an appropriate texture to a new set of system socks and include these with the ensemble? In fact, once created, finely textured socks in the most commonly used colours could simply be popped into every suit’s directory with new releases. I am not expecting socks to match the brocade or silk of a vest or jabot in the ensemble (although that would please me considerably and does on those rare occasions I discover such attention to detail). But what is wrong with including even a nice pair of black dress socks with an ensemble (or whatever colour is appropriate)?

And why do I care, you might ask (apart from the obvious fact that my ankles show with most of my footwear choices)?

[Bare Rose's Formal Hakama]

In a rush whilst changing clothes I sometimes forget my socks and venture out of my door, into the world, with bare feet in my shoes (quite noticeable against pale skin, and blinding when I am my vulpine self). It’s about as mortifying as SL’s old “hair attached to the backside” complication immediately following a TP. Being sockless while elegantly attired does not project the image one wishes when arriving at an event (unless it is a beach party).

[RFyre's Soleil]

I tend to first wear an entire directory comprising of the ensemble in question (I tweak from there, but usually I begin with the entire suit). Then, if need be, I must remember to perform my search for “socks”, and almost always choose Eladrienne Laval’s basic black socks from her ELaval Thom Waistcoat Ensemble suit (they are untextured, but appear at the top of my list when I search for socks). While I am not lazy, I am time efficient, and it would please me to no ends if I did not need to perform this task each time I change and require socks other than what I wore to match my previous ensemble. Mind, I could simply add a copy of said socks into each new ensemble I buy, but yet again, why must I? Or, I could cease my whingeing and add socks to each shoe’s directory, of which there are far fewer than suits (and a savings on inventory items, which is quickly exceeding 30,000 again). On the other hand, I choose my footwear last and god forbid I inadvertently replace an ensemble’s matching pair of socks with a pair of simple black dress socks! Far better for me to resort to searching for “socks” in my inventory and choosing appropriately. And wouldn’t it be nice to have a choice of socks to choose from!

[E Laval's Thom Waistcoat Ensemble]

But this does not solve the problem for those who do not possess a monochrome wardrobe such as myself. When black or white will not do (or one has a closet sock fetish), one is left with the task of procuring appropriate socks or making one’s own socks. A search on XStreet provides a list of ensembles that DO contain socks, but if one is simply searching for socks, none are to be found. By the way, out of 1193 formal ensembles, only 168 include socks (that is a low 14%), and less than 9% of gothic ensembles include socks. For formal wear, that is appalling!

It would appear that ladies have a considerable selection of hose they may choose from (2175 entries for lady’s stockings on XStreet!), but men are, once again, out in the cold… shivering… sockless in SL. It is a travesty that requires rectifying. That, or men must become transvestites.

[sf Designs' Lord Lace]

I decided to ask a few creators why they did not routinely include socks in their fashion sets.

Azriel Demain of FallnAngel Creations replied immediately and most kindly. He had the following to say:

“Most women’s outfits come with socks or stockings because they are there to complement the outfit, and to accentuate and show off a woman’s legs. Whereas most men’s outfits, their legs are covered by pants. Then the guy puts on boots or shoes that cover the rest of his ankle and foot so there really is no point for socks aside to say “my socks are purple today!” Then taking off your shoes to prove your point. Some shoe designers for males do include socks with their shoes.”

[Silent Sparrow's Nemu]

I thank Azriel for his insights and do agree for the most part… except that my ankles show more often than not without socks.

Allow me to transition this discussion of socks from tongue and check complaint and curiosity to general commentary. Within my wardrobe I have a few coloured, non-textured socks that were added for convenience, and I do appreciate this. However, my collection is devoid of textured non-thematic socks. I do have one — sf designs from Lord Lace, where even the toes are appropriately textured. And thematically, creators such as AVID, Bare Rose, RFyre, and Silent Sparrow all include socks as appropriate to match the ensemble (my thanks to these creators). I appreciate such attention to detail very much. However, I really would like to own a few pairs of elegant socks when ankles are visible between trousers and shoes.

To that end, I decided to see how difficult it was to make socks. After applying my test pattern texture to a pair of system socks I could see that it was entirely possible to create some nice looking socks if one had the ability to create custom textures (which I realize many do not, and I will never purport to be capable of). Having less than zero ability for making clothing, I realize that I am not the one to fill this niche. I did, however, create two pairs of socks for testing and amusement purposes. One is a Tintable knit pattern and the other black velvet. These are now freely available in my apothecary to any sock deprived gentleman who might have use of these.

[Black velvet socks for amusement]

[Tintable knit for the desperate]

And finally, as a sometimes furry avatar, I must address the topic of furs and socks. Some furs make use of all their furry attachments, while others do not. For myself, I very seldom make use of my vulpine legs and feet. System socks are used among most furry avatars to colour the legs as appropriate, thusly negating the need and use of socks as socks. Moreover, if a fur is making use of their avatar’s legs and feet, footwear is also not required. Trousers can sometimes also be a problem with avatar leg attachments, but thankfully most trousers are modify and can be shortened to taste. But this is heading towards a topic for another time. Our concern here is that of socks, and the distinct lack thereof in SL.

[AVID's Midnight -- click for larger image]

And finally, what does sex have to do with socks, apart from the Prince Regent largely lacking in both? Well, everyone loves a sharp dressed man, do they not?

Other Details:

Photos taken in My Photosphere

Human avatar

• Hair – Elliot (LightBlond) by Six Kennedy of GuRL 6
• Skin – Scorpio Revelation (3A Smooth) by The Abyss
• Eyes – Blue Opal by Miriel Enfield of Miriel

Fox avatar

• Avatar – Arctic Fox by Cheetah Kitty
• Hair – The Dauphin (Blonde) by Siyu Suen of Illusions