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.