Holiday Christmas Cards From Around the Grid

Interview with Virtual ImpressionsOwner Chrissy Ambrose

SoundStream Radiocomes to Second Life

December Issue Vol.2

Photography by Elena Ewing

Message from CEO & Publisher of Radar Magazine

Dear Reader,

It has been a great year to provide all of you with Radar Magazine. Even with all the ups and the downs, we have dedicated our time and knowledge to bring you great is-sues during the year. We all look forward to the up and coming New Year and what it entails for us both personally and professionally. I believe in renewal of mind and spirit, not so much a resolution but a mirror from the past. That we can learn from the mistakes of 2010 and not bring the drama into 2011.

We have a lot of things planned for the next upcoming months with Radar in Second Life including fashion shows with some of Second Life great designers and creators. Also to come the launch of SoundStream Radio with DJs, live shows and plenty of live music from professional live musical artists here in Second Life.

We hope you all stay tuned to the future of Radar Magazine and its new partnership with SoundStream Radio. We are sure to bring you current and up to date Information.

What is next for our great grid?? Who knows but we will be watching Linden Labs new CEO Rod Humble and the growth of our great community.

I am truly thankful and grateful for my husband and all the military services men and women who have sacrificed there loved ones this holiday to protect our families all over the world. I bid them thank you.

Have a safe and pleasant Christmas and New Year.

Your Friend

Labella Farella

CEO & Publisher of Radar Magazine

Photography by Elena Ewing

This is a time of reflection on the past year as well as a time of hopeful anticipation

of the upcoming. It is a time to wish for all good things, and for me, the best thing

would be improved tolerance of differences--cultures, religions, socioeconomic status,

sexual orientation, the works. I hope that the day is coming soon that all issues can

be settle by peaceful resolution, from those in Second Life, to those in the real world as

well. Look to the future with hope, even when it seems that times are hard and strife is

in so many places. As someone once said, “give peace a chance.”

Dancer Dallagio

Radar Magazine Editor in Chief

Message from Radar Magazine Editor

RadaR Magazine Staff

Labella Farella- Radar Founder/CEO/Publisher

UncleSlappy Wylie- Radar Co-Founder/CEO

Dancer Dallagio- Editor in Chief

Managing EditorJi Nirvana

Alatiel Mailes - Radar Marketing Manager

Tiyah Triellis- Executive Assistant

Dancer Dallagio- Editor in Chief

Ella Quinsette- Stylist

Sun Michalski - Events Coordinator

Photographers:

Cade NansenTanechka GossipGirl

LovelyMiwako7399 MennaPam AstoniaAlatiel Malies

Emy AkerElena Ewing

Temperance MoonitesRabia Baxton

Writers:

Fancy BekkersAnjelyc Morales

Jade SpectreLadyLouisCapone Carmona

Dar MolenoAnjelyc Morales

tracy RubbleJi Nirvana

Angelina LerintzoIvy Auroline

Misty StarostinVanessinha Vectoscope

Tristan TiaretVikeejeah Xevion

RadaR ModelS

Imani EnzoTristan Tiaret

AddisonLynn BlaisdaleMatteo Bettencourt

Carley BenazziMichela BenazziCarilynn OHare

Veronica KrasnerGabriella Mortensen

Blair RoxleyValeria Pienaar

Rissa FrillerWipster BaxterCade NansenJade Spectere

Gabriella MortensenVikeejeah Xevion

Elena EwingDancer Dallagio

LuLu CobaLadyLouisCapone Carmona

Elena EwingValeria Endrizzi

Viola RookswoodMaddox Kaestner

Petitelittlegirl PinkladyArkine Cazalat

Radar Magazine is published by RadarSL which owns and operates Radar Models, Radar Mini Mall

and Radarsl.com.

Online Issue:http://issuu.com/radar_magazine

RadarSL Website:http://radarsl.com/

Visit Us In-Worldhttp://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Etorofu/55/161/25

For updates,gifts and events join our inworld group:Radar Magazine

Table of Contents

30. Tis the Season

38. SoundStream RadioInterview with Frosty Toxx Owner

46. Journal de nouveaux Modèles

54. Fashion with Christmas Stylefeaturig

Leandra Breen and Mimmi Boa

60.Interview with Virtual Impressions

Desinger & Owner Chrissy Ambrose

by LovelyMiwako7399 Menna

70.Special Interview with Mami Jewell

Azul Celebrates 2 Years in Second Life

100. Interview with OsakkiDesigner Kaysha Piers

110.Christmas Miracleby Dar Moleno

With Holiday Photos from You!

Table of Contents

30. Tis the Season

38. SoundStream RadioInterview with Frosty Toxx Owner

46. Journal de nouveaux Modèles

54. Fashion with Christmas Stylefeaturig

Leandra Breen and Mimmi Boa

60.Interview with Virtual Impressions

Desinger & Owner Chrissy Ambrose

by LovelyMiwako7399 Menna

70.Special Interview with Mami Jewell

Azul Celebrates 2 Years in Second Life

100. Interview with OsakkiDesigner Kaysha Piers

110.Christmas Miracleby Dar Moleno

With Holiday Photos from You!

“Tis The Season” in Second Life

by Vikeejeah Xevion

As December 1st came and went, the snow began to fall on The grove Country Club Estates home of Common Grounds Cafe, Club Nine, and lil ol’ me, Vikeejeah Xevion. I looked out over my front yard at the recently installed “crunching snow” that makes noise when I walk on it and my bare snowed upon trees thinking…”This scene needs some holiday music”. I quickly rummaged thru my inventory for an old note card of Christmas urls and after sifting thru the ones that no longer work I found a nice holiday stream for my parcel. I strung my lights, set up my snowman, put my gifts under the white tree and hung my stockings on the fireplace mantel. It is indeed beginning to look a lot like Christmas in The grove.

All of the residents are getting into the holiday spirit. The cafe has a special drink and pastries to order, and ice skating in the back where the pond is. There is a large tree in the central round and poinsettias beds at the entrance gates of the neighborhood with bright lights strung all around. I am so excited for our upcoming community events like Caroling, the Parade of Lights, Holiday Décor Contests and Holiday Pageant. We really do it big in my community and I think that is what adds to the charm and fun o living here.

So many estates in SL claim to be the best place to live and have wonderful landscaping and well built homes but I have never

lived in a place like The Grove. It is a fully connected community with drivable roads, community hang outs, addresses and mailboxes and the gated driveways add to the luxurious atmosphere. It is indeed a fabulous place to live. I thought about moving to the hotel because I am just one lil single gal in a neighborhood full of couples but I can’t imagine not having my cozy custom built home with the long drive leading to my garage and my sprawling backyard with lush prim grass and a peaceful boat dock to reflect from. I am home often taking pictures, watching movies and blogging. Even now I am sitting in my living room typing my article. I really use my home and it feels like a RL home for me. I think that is hard to do in SL. Have a home that feels realistic with eclectic knick knacks and treasures form your travels. But I found it here and love it like no other place I have lived since I rezzed back in July of last year.

As the snow falls outside my living room window I think about the upcoming holiday fashion shows and the charity events I am evolved in and consider myself a very lucky avatar to have great friends, SL family and a cozy place to call home for the holidays. I also hope to give some holiday cheer to the less fortunate both in world and in RL. I hope you will all do the same as you pass the Salvation Army buckets or Toys for Tots Charity bins. Please remember that this is a time for giving just as much as receiving. Happy Holidays to you all.

Photography By Cade Nansen

Radar Magazine’s Managing Editor Ji Nirvana sits down with the brainchild behind Soundstream Radio, Frosty Toxx. Photography by

Valeria Endrizzi

The radio station started in 2007 by Toxx and a few friends as a place to play music for friends and family online but it soon grew into so much more.The station began to gain traction with listeners all over the world. The station now has a 24/7 playlist that can

entertain listeners when an on-air DJ isn’t on.

Interview with Frosty Toxx Owner of

SoundStreamRadio

“Radically Changing Online Radio”

Coming January 2010

Ji Nirvana: So tell me how SoundStream Radio began.

Frosty Toxx: In January 2007, I started SoundStream Radio. Then in late 2007 we were hired by an online game and pushed a more interactive service for the game. We were hired by www.torn.com, which is a text-based MMORPG. Early this year, I decided to pull our service due to a format change in the game. We continued to carry dedicated listeners but pushed forward for a new venue to work closely with station.

JN: So what brought you into Second Life?

FT: In late September of this year, I was informed by two of my DJs (Rattis Neutron and UncleSlappy Wylie) about Second Life. Without having previous exposure to the game, I did some research on what it was about. Then in November, I joined the game to see what were the possible aspects of putting SSR into Second Life.

JN: It seems you’ve established yourself

quickly.

FT: I found a very interesting world I was not aware of. Knowing Rattis and Slappy outside of Second Life, I decided to use their knowledge of the game with my years of experience in running an online radio station to quickly push SSR in Second Life. Radar Magazine and SoundStream Radio working together will be a powerful multimedia outlet for every one in Second Life.

JN: What are your long-term goals for Soundstream Radio and what do you hope to accomplish by joining forces with Radar Magazine?

FT: The long-term goals for SSR are to work closely with Radar Magazine and to be a multimedia powerhouse that will provide a large range of services including on air advertisements, articles for Radar, and on-stie personnel at events to help drive more traffic for venues through the station and magazines listener and reader base.

JN: Those sounds some pretty solid plans.

FT: Well it sounds simple, but there will be a lot of work to get to that point.

JN: Let’s switch gears a bit. So how long have you been a DJ?

FT: Well I started DJ’ing when I was 15 with tape decks. I worked my way in clubs but eventually I need to get a grown up job. I still had a passion for music and mixing and remixing. So I did it as a hobby and built a studio in my home.

Now at the age of 36, I have an online radio station, DJs and much more to keep my busy and sustain my passion for music.

JN: Wow. You’ve been doing this for a long time. What do you love most about being a DJ?

FT: I love to entertain. I have a talent to mix music together, confidence to speak on a microphone and understand how to read a crowd to keep them moving and grooving and having a good time. I’ve been told I have a sexy voice but I’m not too sure about that part.

JN: I’m sure it’s not too far from the truth. But I do think that reading the crowd is important to keep them grooving.

FT: The biggest thing I find is to get the correct music played.

JN: I agree.

FT: As a DJ, you have that control. If you have a crowd request rock n’ roll, you don’t play rap.

JN: So what genre of music do you play most often, then?

FT: Now there are ways to mix and remix songs that cover multiple genres and still be pleasing to many people. That is where the talent comes into play. I am house music DJ. I have been playing it for years and it is my favorite. But having said that, it is very important to be diverse and this is something I can do. I have done 40 year wedding anniversaries to high school dances. As a DJ, it is very important to be able to adapt

to your audience. I can’t stress that enough with my DJs.

JN: That’s pretty sound advice. How many DJs do you have currently working with you at SSR?

FT: Right now we have 11 total. But I have many applications to review in order to add more on-air personalities. Of course, the ultimate goal would be to have enough DJs for 24/7 programming. But that is very difficult.

JN: I think it could be something to work towards. So in your spare time what do you do?

FT: Well I haven’t been in Second Life long but I spend my off time with my girlfriend.

JN: Taking some personal time is important. Lastly, where can people find out more about SSR or to come see you DJ in world?

FT: People can find all of this information, as well as the schedule for all our DJs and myself on our website at www.soundstreamradio.com/forums. On the calendar, all the SSR DJs will have their shows posted. The site will also have information about the radio station and where we are going in Second Life. Now if vendors and companies that wish to advertise on SSR, we have a full list of rates and offers available or they can get in touch with me in-world or via e-mail at djfrosty@soundstreamradio.com.

Valeria Endrizzi

Journal de nouveaux Modèles

Radar Magazine will be following two new models on there journey to

becoming a top model.

Merry Christmas! I am so looking forward to a few days off! I have been running and doing for the past two weeks. We had the Radar Christmas Party. I modeled two outfits, one from Amarelo Manga called Pants Saruel and the other was by Champagne called Delicate. The AM outfit was styled with jew-elry from Aristry by E. The Champagne Delicate gown was a gorgeous white with a mermaid style skirt and feathers across the shoulders and down the arms. We danced, chatted, and a few prizes were given away. If you werent there you missed it. There is so much I wanted to go see and do this past week but rl has interferred, I’m sure everyone knows how that goes. I had to get ready for Sage’s Holiday Fashion show this past Friday night. We had rehearsals all week. That turned out

leather belt and accents. I love it. I dont know how long she has been in business but I cant wait to see more of her creations. That is about it for this week. I hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas and a fabulous New Year! That reminds me, I have no idea what to wear New Years Eve! Guess I get to go do some shopping, one of my favorite things!

Until next week.... stay fabulous and love who you are!

Fancy Bekkers <3

very well. I wore the Winter prin-cess gown with jewelry by Zuri for the first walk. The second walk I wore the Holiday princess gown in red. My third walk was a short dress called Stacy in green and black. All outfits were styled with jewelry by Zuri. I am still working on my photo for the MLC photo contest. I found a new designer while I was looking on marketplace last week. Her name is Joelin tenk. I bought her outfit called cuddly. It came with jeans, pink shirt and a sweater that is open in the front and has a

HAPPY HOLIDAYS everyone..Well let’s see what has been going on in my world of modeling...I was in a holiday runway show for Sage Fashion, I modelled three outfits,,the first was called Bloodrayne this was a blue creation that was meant to make any santa sit up and blush all that was needed was a whip...ooh what a picture..I paired this outfit with Zuri’s B&B Topaz Set..The next outfit was Sage Holiday Princess in Green paired with Zuri’s Only You with featured a Tiara for that true Princess look I mean what Princess doesn’t have a tiara..I walked the runway in a double walk with my bestie Fancy who was wearing the red version.. And then I modeled a casusal look called Sage Stacy in Blue with Zuri’s Precious Sapphire set in silver this was also a double walk with my bestie Fancy..we strutted and posed down the runway with our heads held high...there is nothing like having a sucessful runway show the feeling that you did it and did a good job..and of course the ap-

plause and calling of you name is such a thrill..you look forward to the next time and along with that comes the feelings of antici-pation of the next time, wondering what you will wear and how it will all look together, the rehersal/dress rehersal and then finally the nerves of walking down that runway hoping all looks great and you remember your mark..but after that first walk you start to feel like hey i got this and you really do..then all of a sudden you are on your last walk and you thing I DID IT..there is nothing like that feeling..so future models get out there and get that feeling....well that does it for me for this time I will be enjoying the holi-days and then its back to work...going to start doing alot of cast-ing calls so look for me on the runways untll then Merry Christ-mas and Happy New Year!!

Ladylouis

Fashion with Christmas Styleby Vanessinha Vectoscope

I’m sure that you want to know how to look fabulous this Party Season and what to do during the Holidays!? I asked two Fashion Experts how

to do party glamour and got them to tell us what they’ll be wearing on Christmas Day!!

Leandra Breen (Miss GerMany 2011 & Miss supereLite 2011)

1. What you’ll be wearing on Christmas Day?

I will wear something really comfy. After all those big events this year I’d love to have holidays wearing something warm and smooth.

2. Favorite Stores?Hmmm okay, you have 10 more free pages? ;-) I love so many stores that I don’t know where to begin.

3. How to look Party fabulous?I’ve learned a lot about styling in the past weeks of styling forward. One thing I will share with you - don’t overdo. Be stylish but elegant, plain but eye catching.

4. And what to avoid...?I think we have to avoid a ballroom gown for

a cocktail party and one hundred other little style-killers.

5. What do you do during the Christmas Holidays in SL?

You like an honest answer? Nothing! (smiles)I had such a lot of work in the last weeks and month. When Christmas Holidays arrives MVW is over, Styling Forward is over, our Angel Dessous final contest is over and well, now it is time for relaxing, a bit of shopping and cuddling with Nando.

6. What do you do for your friends during this Holiday Season?

I try to be a good friend from New Year’s Day to Christmas, so the presents from Christmas to New Year’s Day are not this important.

7. What you want for Christmas?My wish for each one in SL and of course in RL too is that everyone will have the time to enjoy the little things in both lives. from snowflakes to the bright eyes of children on Christmas evening/morning…. Take some minutes to remember all the “every day” things which are not mentioned but so precious.

I wish all a wonderful enchanted Christmas!! <3

MiMMi Boa (Miss VirtuaL WorLd 2009 & Miss BLiss Couture 2010)

1. What you’ll be wearing on Christmas Day?Surely I will wear something big, glamorous and soft, something to be a little princess! I confess I would wear something that reminds me snow, so I’ll be a “Snow Queen” probably!

2. Favorite Stores?I have a lot of favorites and I prefer to be polite and avoid saying names.

3. How to look Party fabulous?Models usually must be outstanding all the times but let me say that Christmas will be a special occasion to wear something unique that give you a different charm!Accessories are very important and I can say for sure that the little details make an outfit great!I suggest playing with matched and good accessories but also I remind you to balance the outfit to avoid an overcharged look.To balance the outfit you wear it with good taste… Is the most important thing to keep on mind!

4. And what to avoid...?You have to avoid bad taste and vulgar stuff.

5. What do you do during the Christmas Holidays in SL?

Guess??? I work!

6. What do you do for your friends during this Holiday Season?

I will have to sort out time for me and Salvo (my husband). We are both busy and we see us not very often. To have the possibility to have all my friends around me I will probably organize a party. Let’s see what happen!

7. What you want for Christmas?I want to see happy lovely avatars all around the grid. I want time for Mimmi and Salvo. And I want the best for my job and my friends and models and love for everyone. I would like to see less dramas and more fun!

Thank you so much to Leandra Breen and Mimmi Boa!! I appreciated a lot the time for this Interview!! And I wish to all of you, our wonderful magazine readers, a happy Merry Christmas!!

END!!

Interview with Virtual Impressions Desinger & Owner Chrissy Ambrose

by LovelyMiwako7399 Menna

When one thinks of accessories the immedi-ate thing that comes to mind is Jewelry, not only because is one of the oldest and more beautiful ways to accessorize something you may want to wear for a special occasion, but also because is a form of art. Jewelry in it-self is drawn from the natural beauty around us, most of the jewelry that we will find are simple interpretations of what humans want to grasp from a natural beauty, to apply it to one-self.

But, have you ever wondered what will hap-pen when that natural beauty and that gor-geous work of art clashes with the virtual world? I had the pleasure to meet up with Chrissy Ambrose, designer and CEO of one of Second Life®’s oldest and most respected and loved jewelry stores, Virtual Impressions.

When you walk inside her store you find your-self overwhelmed by the beauty of her cre-ations, from the simple yet complex pearl designs that she has in her wide range of products, to her jewelry made with metals and precious stones all with that hint of nos-talgia and class that has always been trade-mark for Virtual Impressions.

Today I had the pleasure of sitting down with Chrissy Ambrose and find out what drives this simple girl to create such beauty and the rea-sons as to why she loves designing the way

she does, what can we expect from Virtual Impressions in the future and a bit more of this awesome jewelry store.

LM: Hello Chrissy, thank you so much for agreeing to this interview, first of all i would like to thank you for the time you haven given to me and the magazine to pry a little on what you and Virtual Impressions are.CA: you are welcome :))

LM: I guess the first question that comes to mind is... why did you decided to start making jewelry?CA: To be honest Jewelry wasn’t my first creation idea in SL it was shoes, but at the time I had no experience of photoshop and so learning it and also learning to make clothes was difficult at the same time. I began by making prims which was a much easier introduction for me to SL creation, I made a few prim jewelry items to begin with but it was more footwear at the start of my business.

LM: but right now Virtual Impressions is known as one of the most respected jew-elry stores, did you ever thought Virtual Impressions would become this big?CA: Well, I am delighted you think so :)). I am blessed with some wonderful friends who have helped my store become well

known and I, of course, work very hard and produce new items every week, but i would say I am very fortunate in my friends and business contacts.

LM: I have always wondered, why did you decided to call it “Virtual Impressions” is there any specific reason for the name?”CA: well sometimes I wish I had not, because its soo long - laughs playfully - but I thought of the name because we are of course in a virtual world and the accessories create an im-pression or expression of yourself so bringing your taste and design ideas and wished to the virtual world.LM: So all and all you are pleased with the name? - smiles.CA: Well im stuck with it - laughs out loud - and its known as a good brand with a reputa-tion, I would have chosen something shorter, but I am happy with it now.LM: Well but the fans would shorten it to VI for example - giggles.CA: yes thats true and often on product names I have to do that myself, not enough charac-ters to express the full details on one line.

LM: When you start a new collection is there anything or anyone in SL or RL that inspires you?CA: oh certainly from real life (RL for short in english), I am truly inspired by designs I see in RL and also Victorian Styles of jewelry, I like classic designs with lots of gems and glitz or traditional pearls. When I am at a RL party or event, I am often checking out what people are wearing and wondering If i can make something similar.

LM: yes, i have notices you are probably the only big time jewelry designer that works with pearls, may I ask why did you decided to venture on the pearl design?CA: I had done a few pearl designs in my early work, but the first set I made which I worked hard to get the textures perfect and with the right luster was not for me, It was for edo Tone of Styles of edo, I made him 3 designs with Akoya and Tahitan pearls and a number of rings all with textures I had spent a long time perfecting, although I do not use the col-ors I made for him for my own designs I adapted the textures for my own pearls and still make many today which I am really pleased to say look very real and high quality and luster pearls, I love pearls too in RL also - smiles.LM: yes they are amazing, i gotta say i am a fan :)

LM: What can you tell us about the upcoming surprises you are working on at the moment?CA: well I am always thinking of new ideas , I have made 3 sets for Miss Virtual World Con-testants which I will be releasing later this month and I have some new ring styles and tiaras which are almost complete, I am trying to expand my range to make some more showy de-signs, large gemstones and modern designs too with classics.LM: oh that sounds like an interesting vision, I can’t wait to see :)

LM: Last but not least, where do you see Virtual Impressions heading to in the near future?CA: I am always very feminine though - says as she smiles - well It will be interesting to see how mesh will change what I make to incorporate movement I am not sure yet what will be possibleLM: I have to agree, your designs definitely show off the feminity :)CA: also I am thinking to expand into other areas too and maybe increase my store size.LM: Oh dear - laughs - Chrissy Ambrose is planning to take over the Virtual world?CA: No - says as she laughs - I am kind of shy really, just happy working and creating, World domination is not my thing - giggles a bit.

LM: Well Chrissy it was a pleasure talking to you about your amazing work you have definitely left a mark on SL fashionCA: I hope you have everything you need, I only create because I enjoy that side and if peo-ple also get pleasure from wearing I am delighted - smiles.

As you can see, chrissy is still a down to earth girl who does what she likes for the pleasure of doing it, she is someone that will keep designing and doing what she loves and sharing it with us on her amazing store, Virtual Impressions.

Be sure to keep a look out for this amazing jewelry designer who most definitely has left a mark on all of us.To visit her store go to: http://slurl.com/secondlife/Ekho/138/125/24

Photography byAlatiel Malies

Mami Jewell has come a long way, from her start in SecondLife to designing in 2007, studying with Edo Tone in 2008, graduating to her own shop 5 months later, and having her designs featured in the top styling contests and pageants in SL. She is known for her elegant and refined gowns and dresses, with prims that float effortlessly and are a joy to wear. They are stylish in a way that is eternal and classic.

Congratulations on having so many of your gowns for MVW ending up in the Top 12 this year, and for your MVW 2011 Serene Faith evening gown creation (you also had top 10 Finalists in MVW 2010, as well creating stunning gowns for MVW Finalists in 2009, who wore your gowns)! What is the process you use to go from ideas and concepts from the girls to finished gown, and how doyou make them all so very unique and special?

>>>First of all, thank you for the opportunity to speak about myself on Radar Magazine, and thank you for having AZUL at your shopping mall:) Well, I had my own very small shop named ‘azul’ in Japanese sim since Nov 2007,I was enjoying to make simple outfits, Jewelry, and skin. In Spring of 2008,I met edo Tone through Ruriko Bracken who is only one official blogger for AZUL and he gave me advice to focus to make formal. I closed ‘azul’ and became a designer at Styles of edo from July to December 2008.

I got first offering for MVW Gown was from Mimmi Boa who is MVW 2009, when I was at Styles of edo.

Special Interview with Mami Jewell

Azul Celebrates 2 Years in Second Life

I was not sure how big competition MVW is, however I did my best to make special gown for Mimmi. Mimmi, edo and I had discussed so many times! Mimmi gave us her amazing idea, edo gave me texture and I worked on the texture over and over...and Mimmi won! I was so happy for her and so honored. It was like she brought me luck. That time I had been having a hard time in RL, I didn’t want to make any problem for business so I decided to be myself, and I got my own Sim and re-opened ‘AZUL’ in December 2008. It was very busy days, I built store for whole region in 2 days for opening! and still I am using that building now (lol). I began to design since 3 years ago however I believe AZUL started at Dec 2008. MVW 2010, I made 3 evening gowns for finalists, for the first Runner-up Miss China ;Sora Tatham, top 10 finalist Miss Holland :Melanie Sautereau, and finalist Miss Russia :Agtaope Carter. Each finalist gave me her idea with showing photo what she liked, then I transform it to fit to SL. I am happy what I made, and I was so proud of them, they did very well!

MVW 2011, Honestly I didn’t think to make for many finalists because I have Miss AZUL-Tania Tebaldi who is Miss Russia for MVW, but when I changed my mind when I got offers from other finalists. For them, MVW is one of the very special event and I know how it is for them. They want to be the best at the stage, and they asked me to help with gown... how can I miss this opportunity to share the special time with them? (lol) Always to make MVW gown is like ‘new step’ for me, and always it brings to me ‘new world’ or ‘new way’ for creation. This year, I made National costume and evening gown for Miss Russia/4th Runner up :Tania Tebaldi ,Miss China/top 12 : Blossoms Sweetwater , and evening gown for Miss Hong Kong :Serene Faith who is MVW 2011 and Miss Czech Republic/1st Runner up :Louise McWinnie. They gave me photos of what they like, some people showed me only one photo, some other showed me a lot of photos, we exchanged ideas and did small alteration... I am so happy with their styling, very good job at the stage and results! What is good about MVW for me is I can have the chance to make something I had never tried before, It is tough but full of joy. Each request has unique ideas, and I can enjoy to put AZUL taste in there. I really want to give congrats to all of them, they did great and I am so honored to be part of it!

Your clothing is so very lovely and personifies elegance from short dresses to wedding gowns and all in between. No matter if a dress is short or is long with a slit, it never goes too high or shows too much. What inspires you for any given creation, and how do you come to name them as you do?

>>>Thank you Dancer, I’m happy if my creation can be personifying elegance..:) This is a virtual world, we can make or wear anything. But I want to keep some kind of ‘realistic part’ in there. Clothing is only one part of in SL, but can give huge pleasure and satisfaction to people. I want to wear something which makes me feel gorgeous, sexy, elegant yet comfortable in this virtual world, and I guess many people do too. Maybe I’m enjoying finding the good balance of fashion between virtual world and Real, not too much or less. About name of outfits, it’s my weak part (lol). My friend Ruriko Bracken helps me since 2 years ago, almost all the names are by her. (shhh)

You have just celebrated your 2nd anniversary of Azul in SecondLife. What changes do you foresee happening with you and your brand during this next year, and what do you hope to continue to pursue?

>>> I can not know, and I enjoy that I can not know. It’s not only about SL, our current environment and the situation is because of past. You can guess how is the future if you see how you are now. Sometimes unexpected thins happens, but we can turn it to good or bad. So I believe next year will be great if I don’t stop working serious with heart. I just hope I can have enough time to create, and my creation can bring something good to people. You have a Miss Azul, who is the very lovely Tania Tebaldi, who was a MVW Finalist. Many stores now have a Muse or a Miss; what brought you to the decision to have one, and how is it for you to work with one spokesmodel for your brand, and do you feel this program would be a benefit to all brands?

>>>I love her! She is so sweet..I’m so proud of her to be 4th runner up of MVW and face of AZUL. One of the reasons I got her because I was wondering about image picture of items. I’m not model, I don’t do shopping, I don’t know well about make up or skin...then how I can show good image for AZUL gowns(lol). To show AZUL product, images with her avatar are much better than my avatar, and I hope I could give her another opportunity as a model in SL. Also it was good commercial to have competition, so I think it works well for each other. To have a muse is good for a brand, for the model, and it can give another target to models I think.

Last month you were featured on the premiere episode of the SL TV Fashion Style The Runway show, which is held on the biggest Japanese broadcasting service (the show is held every two weeks on Tuesdays at 6am SLT). What was it like for you to be the first guest on this new show?

>>>It was my honor to be first guest of course, I thank SLTV so much! They had many programs but it is great to have ‘The Runway’, I was happy to talk about myself or about creation. I think it’s the very first program like that in Japan, and I hope it can be bridge for Japanese or others to see SL fashion world.

You are involved with the Jazz Club Narkissos, along with several other top brands. How do you find the difference in this opportunity from your normal retail experiences?

>>> To hold retail places is quite hard for me, brings me many jobs to do, I have to select where I join. Some shopping mall don’t care how shops sale well or not, just care which brand they hold. About Narkissos, edo select brands only which he wants for helping each other, making good business relationships, and it is honor to be in.

Your Azul group reached 10,000 members this year. Your group gifts are amazing. What did you do to grow your group to such a high number of people?

>>> Thank you. I started to serve group gifts because I knew many people can not shop at AZUL for prices. To

have good sales is important target for me of course, yet I love people to enjoy my creations, I don’t want to make a wall to let them be out of AZUL. Group gift is very good chance to share my joy with people without L$. Group gift I make for members are more casual outfits, but ‘good item’ to have. I hope many people enjoy to be in AZUL group!

You received the VAIN INC. Reader’s Choice Award for Best Female Formal Wear in 2010. How do you feel about awards from both your peers and the general SL public?

>>> I really thank to all the people who voted for me! I was not so interested in the award thing at the beginning, however it is one of a proof of what is AZUL for people... I was scared to know the result (lol).I am happy to know people enjoy my creations, like ‘I’m doing OK’. Let me thank again to all the people who support AZUL, and Vain inc!

You have collaborations with some of the top designers on the grid, from hair designers to jewelers. How do you come by these connection, and how do you support one another?

>>> Chrissy Ambrose from Virtual Impressions is very good friend of mine, I call her ‘sis’! edo Tone introduced her to me almost 3 years ago, since then I always use her jewelry for vendors. She is veryfast to make, and she creates amazing jewelry for AZUL bridals. Many customers purchase her jewelry at my main store, they say ‘I want to style just like poster’. Also edo brought me Tabata Jewell from Vanity Hair, i hope our relationship brings another opportunity to her business.

Azul has been featured in many charity events in SecondLife, from the Maseno Project, to RFL to fundraisers for Haiti. What decisions and vetting processes do you use when thinking about which events to take part in?

>>> To join charity events is much easier than RL, I’m happy people organize the events for giving me a chance to join. It’s not only for egoism to feel that we are doing something good, each event/project got amazing results. It is a great thing to remind people, stop and think about that, and donate. We can do something, and I’m happy SL has a great part to join for charity. Unfortunately I can not join to all the projects, I have to be sure if the donation goes to the person who is troubled for sure or not. I am trying to take part of as many events as I can, it is my pleasure if I can be small part of helping hand for people.

Thank you again Mami for sharing so much of yourself with us today, and for sharing your lovely creations throughout all of SecondLife. I encourage our readers to check out the lovely new designs at AZUL from MVW and beyond.

Photography byAlatiel Malies

MVW gown-AZUL- Serenemodel:Serene FaithJewelry Linda In Back Pearls & Diamonds

MVW gown-AZUL- Louisemodel:Louise McWinnieJewelry Connie in Ruby Shades

MVW gown-AZUL- Blossomsmodel: Blossoms SweetwaterJewelry, Felicity in Snow White Pearls

MVW gown-AZUL- Sakuramodel: Blossoms SweetwaterJewelry , Janine Jewelry in Gold & Diamonds

MVW gown-AZUL- Taniamodel:Tania TebaldiJewelry, Deborah Set in Silver & Diamonds

MVW gown-AZUL- Tebaldimodel:Tania TebaldiJewelry, Zara Earrings in Black Pearls & Diamonds

Formal gown-AZUL- Leira/Garnetmodel:Tania TebaldiJewelry:Linda Jewelry Set in Pearls & Diamonds

Formal gown-AZUL- Julianne/Pearlmodel:LuLu CobaJewelry:Zara Jewelry Set (ive sent both in black and snow white)

Formal gown-AZUL- Sora /Whitemodel:Dancer Dallagio Jewelry: Honour Jewelry in Platinum & Diamonds

Formal gown-AZUL- Nerola/Morganitemodel:Annette HimmelJewelry:Melanie Jewelry in Platinum & Diamonds

Formal gown-AZUL- Canna/Turquoisemodel:Elena EwingJewelry:Titania Jewelry Sets in silver

Formal gown-AZUL- Laetitia/Garnetmodel: AddisonLynn Blais-daleJewelry: Lillian In Gold & Diamonds

Formal gown-AZUL- Melinda -Whitemodel:Leah McCulloughJewelry:Michelle Jewerly Set with Color Change Pear Gemstones

Formal gown-AZUL- Ingrid Noirmodel:TyraBanks EirenJewelry: Mariah Jewelry in Black Pearls

Formal gown-AZUL- Velma/Icemodel: Rissa FrillerJewelry: Madison Dream Jewelry in Black Pearls

Formal gown-AZUL- Maggie<Rev> /Pearl-Whitemodel:Arkaine CazaletJewelry:Taylor Jewelry Set in Silver Pearls & Diamonds

Bridal gown-AZUL Bridal- Yasmin/Crimsonmodel:Mimmi BoaJewelry:Madison Knot Jewelry Sets

Bridal gown-AZUL Bridal- Meg_Raffinemodel:Kay FaireyJewelry:Athena Tiaras

Bridal gown-AZUL Bridal- Arabesque Mariage/Champagnemodel:Miaa RebaneJewelry:Sabrina Tiara and Jewelry Set in Gold & Dia-monds

Bridal gown-AZUL Bridal- Sora Mar-iage /Pearlmodel:Sora TathamJewelry:Helen Tiara

Interview with OsakkiDesigner Kaysha Piersby Vikeejeah Xevion

How did you get into designing for Secondlife?

I started designing on a different gaming platform, not as sophisticated as SL but equally as popular. I found out from a few people there that they had left there, to join SecondLife, I came online, and pretty much never looked back, as I saw the opportunity here in SL to develop something greater.

Where did you get the name for your brand?

Ah the dreaded question...As many people know Im a graphic designer in RL, and branding in a large portion of my RL work. Before Osakki came along, my store was originally called Dangerous Lace. Dangerous Lace came from the name I used on the other platform, and Osakki was the rebranding that I created back in Dec of ‘09. I did alot of research, and pieced some words together, did some naming excersises and it just happened. It was kind of magical :). I’ve always been in love with Japan and Asian culture in particular. And no, Osakki doesnt mean anything in particular, at least if it does, I couldnt find the translation for it. lol!

What is your style direction for Osakki?

Well, at first glance I suppose it would have to be something modern, fashion forward..with a side of funkiness going on. I enjoy the complexities of life, and especially the unexpected. I used to design with a style, that wasn’t really my own. It was unnatural. The best way I could describe it would be to say the style itself has multiple personalities. It can be something thats couture, something extreme and super fun, yet it can be sophisticated and chic. Its a little demented, but still has the heart of the retro culture from the 80s. In retrospect, its a person, with all the flaws, perfections and insecurities along with the need to live life to the extreme. Its many sides, many faces and many non predictable moments. I’ve also lost a couple things in my life recently, lost love, people, my dog, 2010 was pretty trying on my soul, so a little darkness surrounded the style of the brand as well.

Will your brand expand to include menswear, accessories, hair, makeup?

I’ve always wanted to become a “superbrand” as some would say. The one stop shop kind of place. It occured to me that I dont have all the skills just yet to be there. I dont have any designer counterparts so it’s simply something that will have to take place one step at a time. I do have plans in the future for all the things mentioned above :) I adorreee makeup, so thats a definite yes, and I constantly get requests for a mens line, so we’ll see what happens within the next couple of months :)

Where do you draw your inspiration from when you begin a new design?

Oh wow, I think this is a hard topic for any artist to answer. It comes from everywhere really, from googling fashion shows, to fashion trends, to walking in my favorite RL store. I’ve also done fine art for years so inspiration comes from illustrators, designers, street artists, music! Anything really, I’ll come across anything and want to reinterpret it here. I think most of my inspiration if anything, comes from color. I’d die without it!

How would you describe your current collection?

The New Era collection is a collection full of fun, with a side order of darkness. It represents both the dark side of ones nature with the vitality and fun represented by the 80s. Its a mixture of old and new, and hopes to bridge the gap that has been missing in the SL market for a long time. It can be super chic and fashion forward, yet very down to earth and relaxed.

What can we look forward to with your next collection?

Well, I’ve started on a redux collection of the New Era one out now. It will be continuation of the current collection, with some new twists. Part of it will be more couture driven, where as the other more wearable. It will still have the same personality of this collection, but with some sides that in someone nature would usually be hidden away from

society status quos.

How did you decide on your main location being at LE LOOK? is there a business partnership with them?

I started SL back in 2008, and I’ve always known Le.Look to be a style leader. Bringing the best together, and really keeping it something that is fresh and still on everyones mind. I recently did an event for the Call for Couture, and shortly after the event subsided, I was contacted by Sawyer to have my mainstore on their new sim. I think I fainted a couple times before actually responding! loll! I couldn’t believe it. I knew them as style leaders in SL and it was a decision based to bring my store to life, as it should have been done properly, and its exactly what I wanted in my store, in regards to style, design and architecture. They gave me the path to do that. It was the best decision I’ve made thus far, and Im very excited to keep growing with them.

Who are your favorite SL designers and why?

The list is truely never ending. I enjoy finding things out of the ordinary, and by far my favorites designers have to be some that include the fabulous team of Lelutka, Glam Affair, Indyra Seigo, Maitreya, Anya Ohmai, Royal Blue, Epoque, the list is ridiculous. I have the upmost respect for these designers and they constantly inspire me to keep going, especially when those SL times get rough. They do alot for the people on SL. The reasoning is because they have taken something such as an online platform to create magnificent items. Some of the things that come out of these places is truely amazing and their style sometimes...I really dont know how they do it. I love finding things off the beaten path as well. So many great designers out there, its hard to just choose a few.

When you are not designing, what do you enjoy about SL?

Ha! Im mostly designing, but when I do gather some down time, I love taking Photos, and just hanging around the crazies. Laughter is a hugee part of my life, making people laugh, laughing with them. If anything that includes that, Im down for it! Just here to have a good time, make some good fashion and meet new people, all while sipping my Starbucks chai tea. You can find some pretty amazing people here, if you just look. :)

Is there a special someone for you?

Uh oh! LOL! Currently I do regret to inform everyone.....That I am infact....single :D Hopefully he’ll come in time too.

What is your ultimate goal for Osakki?

To make fierce and awesomely fabulous, chic, couture-esque, bad ass, all sorts of colorful fashion. Osakki is to share a piece of me, with everyone else. So with that, I’ve already reached my ultimate goal, and cant wait to keep going..:)

Second Life gives people from all over the world the opportunity to connect with one another, allowing cultures to mix and create a new World that is only a few clicks away. For me, a second lifer of two years, this infusion of culture becomes especially apparent during the Holiday season. Wherever I teleport, Holiday deco-rations are plentiful: whether it be a tree adorned with shining lights and standing above countless freebies placed out by the owners or snowmen and women wel-coming shoppers inside, the winter season and cheer has spread throughout the grid.

Christmas Miracleby Dar Moleno

With Holiday Photos from You!

Thought I do not appreciate the constant nip of cold wind on my ears and cringe whenever my car refuses to heat up as quickly as I’d like for it to, winter time remains one of my favorite times of the year, if not my absolute favorite. In real life, it is a chance to give. I’m not just talking about the Barbie doll houses or the Lego sets, I’m not only referring to that expensive necklace you’ve wanted all year that you finally get to open on Christmas morning. The gift that gets me most about the Holidays is the willingness to help those who are less fortunate. Just earlier this month I went through my closet and emptied it of dresses I no longer wear, pants that no longer tickled my fancy, and blouses that I hadn’t touched in the last year and donated them to a place that will give them to those who desperately need them. My best friend volunteers at Soup Kitchens, giving the homeless or less fortunate a chance to have a Holiday feast and allow them to live what many people take for granted and give them a solid holiday memory.

What gets me most about Second Life during the Holidays is not just the thoughtfulness of friends and designers who give gifts and free goodies or the plentiful decorations that are adorned all throughout the grid, but rather the actual appreciation for what Second Life stands for. During my first two years on this virtual grid, I have met people from places like Australia and Israel, that I may have never had the chance to get to know had I not logged on. It’s a unique opportunity to explore talents, to meet new people, to make new friends, and to learn from those around us and grow in ways that we never thought imaginable. I’ve learned so much about other cultures during my time here, and this Christmas, it is definitely what I am most thankful for. They say that Christ-mas miracles exist, and for me and for everyone else, we should take SL exactly for what it is this Christmas and examine the fact that from the comfort of our own homes, we are able to build re-lationships with people from half a world away. With luck, these relationships will allow us to not only learn more about the people who surround us, but also learn infinitely more about ourselves and the lives that we live, and hopefully give us a greater appreciation for them. We can live here, we can laugh here, and we can love here. We can be absolutely anything we want to be, including ourselves.

I don’t know about you, but to me? Sounds like a miracle. Have a wonderful Holiday season.