The Meme Of All Meme's - Why Do I Blog??????

Hey it's Berry Meme Monday don't ya know!  I love this one about blogging so thought I'd share the space where it all happens.

 

So here are my answers -

1. How long have you been blogging?
I started Chalice In Wonderland some time in 2008 then stopped.  I resurrected it in July 2009.  Half of me loves doing it and the other half worries about the time I spend doing it thinking I could be devoting time to something else.  I reason however, that its a creative outlet because I have a RL job that requires an entirely different persona.

2. Why did you start blogging?
I initially started it when I was a contestant in Miss Virtual World representing my home country, Australia.  I wanted to share the journey which I did but at the time my ex-husband was getting pissy about me being in SL so I quit.  I took it up again in 2009 because I really did need a little me time and it did help me unwind for an hour or two in the evening.  I figured my ex-husband loved to watch sports on TV so I could have a Second Life. lol.  I used to be very mindful about the time I spent doing SL things but now I'm single, its not the issue it once was. 

3. How many times a week do you post an entry?
Probably around 5 to 6 times a week.  I do fluctuate depending on spare time and inclination.

4. How many different blogs do you read on a regular basis?
Gawd it would have to be a lot.  Not sure of numbers but I do have a lot of favorites.  I use the feeds to keep up with who's doing what.

5. Do you comment on other people's blogs?
Yep I sure do.  I love to receive comments and I love to give them for posts I appreciate.  Lets face it, we don't blog hoping no one will read it, so validation from time to time is nice.  I also get a buzz when designers come on and let you know they know you've blogged their items.  I think as a community it would be great if we could give encouragement to each other through comments.

6. Do you keep track of how many visitors you have?
Yes via my counter, Blogger stats and Feedjit widget.  I unfortunately lost my original counter so have started again.  I wish I had more visitors though but that's just me being greedy.

7. Did you ever regret a post that you wrote?
Yes...on my original blog I got involved with something I never should have and it kind of blew up in my face.  That taught me to really think about what I post and not use my fashion blog as a soap box for SL issues that really don't concern me.

8. Do you think your readers have a true sense of who you are based on your blog?
This is a hard one.  I don't think I really put myself out there in either life so probably not.  The open book I initially was in SL has closed to a certain extent and I mainly focus on promoting fashion items and designers.  One of my favorite bloggers is Emerald Wynn and I really love how she perfectly mixes her SL avi exploits and RL persona into her blog.  It's an interesting format but she's a wonderful writer and commentator on life in general which is why it works so well.

9. Do you blog under your real name?
My SL real name but not my real real name. lol

10. Are there topics that you would never blog about?
The traditional ones like politics and religion...no, no, never.  I wouldn't blog about other people's choices in SL or expose anyone.  Its just not me dishing any dirt so yes, anything controversial I steer away from.   BUT I have an admission.  I do like a bit of muck raking so perhaps I'm as bad as those that do it.

11. What is the theme/topic of your blog?
Basically just showing off fashion items and talking about those who design them.  I find it funny that while so many other blogs support all these events/charities/causes etc., I just keep on buying clothes and blogging about them.  The pressure I'd feel in being an official blogger for 'blah, blah' would be too much for me to handle I think.  I'd be nervous I wouldn't do them justice.

12. Do you have more than one blog?  If so, why?
No only this one.

13. What have you found to be the benefits of blogging?
Well for me it's certainly not getting the drum on new releases or free clothing?  That's a rarity for me.  I think the benefits are creating looks from random pieces and trying to make them appealing.  Whether I'm successful, well that's not for me to say.

14. So why do you continue to blog?
Because there's nothing else I can do in SL.  I wouldn't know the first thing about actually designing a clothing item and I don't build...I just dress my dolly.  To me its essentially role playing being a clothes horse  Boring as shit aren't I?  lol    

With all the penis talk going on at the moment, I thought I'd add to the drama and wear my COCK top.  Cock-a-doodle-do darlings.

Hair: Tram
Skin: Tuli
Lips: Tuli
Eyes: IKON
Hands: SLINK
Top: Le Primitif
Pants and Belt: My Own Way
Shoes: 7 Plus picked up at Fi*Friday and The Promenade
Necklace: Maylo Designs
Watch: Indyra Originals
Bracelet: Elemental Earth Designs
Glasses: Designed by Drupal Kirax - doesn't seem to be selling.
Hair piece: BoHo HoBo

It's Silky Smooth At BoHo HoBo Ladies And Germs

Yoooo hooo.  For those of you who have not had the pleasure of a shopping trip to BoHo HoBo, I thought I would revisit the wonderful brand and make a blog post.  I have always enjoyed the creative mind of its owner Trill Zapatero and find the clothing and accessories to be of the highest quality.  I mean this dress and hat speaks for itself.  Look at the lustre and shine she is able to produce.

Shout out to Zaara for creating such incredible jewellery...totally awesome.

Skin: Gem in Pearl tone by LeLutka
Hair: Hair wisp attachments by Bizzare Hair
Eyes: Eternal eyes in Glue/Grey by IKON
Dress: Tibetan Silks Tube Dress by BoHo HoBo
Hat: Black Silk Top Hat by BoHo HoBo
Gloves: No longer available - designed by Vitor Algoma
Shoes: Candy Ankle Boots by Kunglers
Necklace and earrings: Nizam Jhumka by Zaara
Pics taken at Mojave Desert

T--art From Boho Hobo.

These T's incorporate real life art from Trill Zapatero from Boho Hobo.  They are fabulous mesh and come in 3 sizes for the perfect fit.  Priced at a mere $85L's and even better, one of the T's will be on sale for $55L's.  How can you possibly go wrong with these striking pieces of art created in real life?  That makes them even more special.  Folds, creases and drapes are wonderful.

Take it from Auntie Cha.  These are a wardrobe stable.

BoHo HoBo Jean Jacket

How about this jean jacket from BoHo HoBo gals?  Trill Zapatero sent it to me a little while ago and I finally got around to unpacking the box to find this awesome jacket that is perfect in every way.  I wasn't feeling inclined to just wack on the obvious pair of jeans so did some hunting to seek out something playful.

I found these booty shorts at (K)Rea! and from the rear, they're very cheeky.

The details on the back of the jacket is nothing less than you what get with BoHo HoBo pieces...interesting, unexpected and quirky.

Anyway kiddies, I'm off for lunch with the girls and yes, that big machine next to me will be throbbing away between my thighs in a blink of an eye.  Now I'm gonna shut up and drive :-)

Stuff

Hair incl. Hair Flower: Daisy in Champagne from Truth

Skin: Daphne Skin in Pale from Glance

Nails: Pixel Mode

Eyes: Sunrise Eyes in Pale Mint from IKON

Jacket: BoHo HoBo Jean Jacket

Top: Flower Tank by Punch Drunk (no longer available)

Shorts: Parade Shorts by (K)Rea!

Watch: Flight Compass Wristwatch from Indyra Originals

Clutch: Claire Clutch in Deep Turquoise by LeLutka

Necklace: Friendo Necklace by Miel

Earrings: India Dangle Earrings by Junk

Shoes: Scarlett Classic heels in Gold by Kalnins

Location: San Hose City

And The Winner Is...Nardcotix and Boho Hobo.

I love Nardya Rousselot's Nardcotix label and am always thrilled to receive a little package in the mail from her.  This time my jaw dropped lower than ever before as I tried on the Miranda wedges in divine blue.  The shortened edgy heel and delicately folded bows at the back make this a very special shoe indeed.

Aren't they simply gorgeous?  At only $520L a pair, these are an investment in style.  Take your pick of black, blue, brown, nude, olive, red and tempered or get the fat pack for only $1,850L. 

Trill Zapatero from Boho Hobo recently sent me this amazing crushed velvet coat in claret that is utterly superb.  Trimmed with silver and lovely silver applique buttons, the coat is everything a boho style purist would expect..

Style Credit:

Hair: Sake in Sweet Blond by LoQ.

Skin: Daphne 03 make up by Glance Skins.

Freckle Tattoo: By Glance Skins.

 Eyes: Sunrise Eyes in Pale Violet by Fashism.

Nails: By Pixel Mode.  

Lip Tattoo: Eccentric Lipstick in Mirage by the skinnery.

Shorts: Micro shorts from Barbee designed by Natsu Serevi (store no longer in existence) - I tinted them red.

Leggings: Red Funked Up Leggings from Graffitiwear.

Necklace, earrings and ring: Silver Caged Bird from Graffitiwear.

Back soon with more...

Meena - NEW STORE Making Afghanistan Bohemian Inspired Clothing..

This amazing shawl and waist sash are just two items of many available at a new store called 'Meena'.  An off-shoot of BoHo HoBo, designer Trill Zapatero, describes her clothing designs for Meena as 'Afghanistan Bohemian', a hybrid of tradition Afghan and western clothing.  The richness of the textures and the vivid patterns and colors make these clothing items pop.  Check out the Meena vendor poster.

Meena Vendor Poster.

As I have said before and totally stand by, Trill makes AMAZING clothing that always work on my avatar.  In my opinion you won't get better quality for the absolutely reasonable prices she charges.

As you can see, the mix 'n' match versatility of these pieces provides a stunning fusion of east meets west.  Using the waist sash and shawl as my inspiration, I chose to wear only a sleek hair base from Cashmere to elongate the neck to take the shawl. 

I found this cable knit body suit in 'ember glow' from The Secret Store and then came upon the pencil skirt in 'quarry' that I thought would bring out the blue hues.  I opted for a strong makeup from my Claudia 2 fat pack from LAQ and wore an earthy earring and bracelet set called Adele from Indyra Originals.

You simply must check out the bags at Bare Rose.  I'm so impressed with them and they are better in the flesh than the pictures. This bag is called 'Bellissima' in wine but there's so many fab styles to choose from.  The quality totally surprised me. On my right hand (camera) is a great bracelet from Miel called Chum.  Maitreya Gold Allure shoes n socks finish me off and I'm ready to spread some color wherever I go.

Do drop by Meena and pick up something to make you happy while at the same time, all proceeds from this store go RAWA, the Revolutionary Association of the Women of Afghanistan.

These shots were taken at The Nest - Home & Garden Shopping Town.  Great sim for photo's guys not to mention shopping for your home and garden needs.

BoHo HoBo Show Girl.

I tried so hard to get this post out before the Boho Fusion Fashion Show on Sunday 2nd October at 6.30pm organized by Avante Modeling Agency. My favorite designer Trill Zapatero from BoHo HoBo was a part of the show and despite having completed my BoHo HoBo shots, it was midnight before I finished and I just couldn't bring it home. Sorry Trill but I do have some BoHo HoBo magic to share. I hope it was a huge success and I'm just sorry I wasn't able to attend to cheer you and the other designers on.  Don't forget all proceeds from BoHo HoBo is donated to RAWA - read here.

Click pics for more detail.

The skirt, the red leather jacket and the adorable hat are from BoHo Hobo.  Amazing Trill.

Hair: Paper Couture base; Bra Top: freebie made by Taz McCoy; Earrings: Kunglers; Nails: Pixel Mode; Shoes: Similar Italian Footwear, Skin: Glam Affair; Eyes: Fashism; Ring: Finesmith.

Again, the skirt, turquoise leather jacket and hair piece are from BoHo HoBo.  Me LOVES.

Hair Base: Paper Couture; Hair Attachment: MADesigns; Top: ElyMode; Earrings: Dark Mouse; Ring: EarthStones; Shoes: Courtisane; Skin: Glam Affair; Eyes: Fashism.

Look at the fantastic necktie skirt and black leather jacket.  Too gorgeous for words.

Hair and Base: Vanity Hair; Top: Somnia; Bangle: Paris Metro: Necklace: CheerNo Femme; Earrings: DeLa; Skin: Glam Affair; Eyeshadow Tattoo Layer: Miamai; Shoes: Box Coen.

I need to tell you that these jackets and skirts are AMAZING.  So well made and with a re-size script, so easy to fit. Do your self a fashion favor, go get something wonderful at BoHo HoBo.  I am an unabashed fan if you can't tell.

BoHo HoBo Jean-ius.

I've had a blast doing the Platinum Hunt, reacquainting myself with all the glorious designers who blow me away with their talent. So much fun in fact that I've neglected my blog and delayed posting some of the great things that have been sent to me. Sorry lovies but sometimes I need to drop the business and just be a resident without a cause.

Trill Zapatero from BoHo HoBo sent me these Popsicle Jeans in Cherry and I was dying to post them. I love good jeans and have a soft spot for bell bottoms. They come with a brilliant belt and the texture and seams are quality all the way.

I'm not a big wing wearer but when I stumbled across this store called Equus a little while back, I was mesmerized by this set called Pegasi Embryo Wings. I'll be bringing some more Equus magic in the form of slick couture pieces that I fell in love with very soon. That's Chalice's very soon not the rest of the worlds very soon.

Another purchase I am excited about was these Polly Suede Shoes from Ducknipple. Me adores them and I'm even more thrilled that one pair affords you color change choices and I'm really impressed with the foot.

During my hunting, I found the haughty Deco Necklace in the form of a clothing layer at Grixdale for 50% off...boo hoo. Grixdale don't go:-( I didn't have the energy to rifle through my wardrobe for a top so wore this to cover the boobies. Likewise, I found these great Smexy Black and Bowie Lace Gloves from Epic and thought, what the hell. Throw them on too Chal.

Only 25 stores left to go but really I don't want the hunt to end. The Platinum Hunt is a gooden. Now I must spend copious hours unpacking and trying it all on.

Meh Clothes:
Hair: Knotted Hair in Marilyn tone by LeLutka.
Skin: Elena Pale Glow Skin by LAQ.
Eye Shadow Tattoo: Two Days To Go Fuchsia Shadow by synt.
Necklace: Deco Layer necklace by Grixdale.
Jeans and Belt: Popsicle Jeans in Cherry by BoHo HoBo.
Wings: Pegasi Embryo Wings by Equus.
Shoes: Polly by Ducknipple.
Bangle: Gilded Goddess bracelet by Paris Metro.
Gloves: Smexy Black and Bowie Lace Gloves by Epic.
Poses: From Juxtapose.
Shot at Zaara.

Invest in Boho Hobo.

Click the pics for more detail.

If you've ever read my blog before, you'll know that I am a huge fan of Trill Zapatero's label, BoHo HoBo. And you will also know that the proceeds from her shop goes to the Revolutionary Association Of The Women Of Afghanistan (RAWA) to fund education, healthcare and orphanages.

Well Trill sent me one of her new releases. A groove-a-licious suede fringey vest in passion purple. Its so fabulous and with an easy resizing script, it will fit all body shapes. The fringe swishes and sways with every step and makes me want to get down and dancey with Austin Powers.

Looks great just with Chal's flat chest and some bling. There was a wee nip slip but nothing too drastic.

I'm wearing Chantkare's khaki poofy shorts that I fell in love with and will be wearing lots. Couldn't go past the Chantkare hair flower either as it matched the vest so well.

I have a huge selection of shades and forgot I had these diva'ish looking specs called J-Logic from JE Republic. Note to self, wear more glasses.

Anyway lovelies. Just had to share this wonderful creation from BoHo HoBo and encourage you all to go look at Trill's store. Not only is she a huge creative talent, her heart is even bigger because she does this for a wonderful cause.

Me stuff:

Hair Attachment and Base: Milky Blond Hair Base and Updo #1 from LAQ.
Skin: Claudia 2 Glow Skin in Milky tone by LAQ.
Eyes: Sunrise Eyes in Pale Mint by Fashism.
Eye Shadow Tattoo: Anime #23 Face Tattoo by Tattanooga.
Cleavage Tattoo: Milky Cleavage V4 by LAQ.
Vest: Purple Fringey Vest by BoHo HoBo.
Shorts: Khaki Poofy Shorts by Chantkare.
Shoes: Flower Wedge Sandals in Black by DeLa.
Hair Piece: Kusum Hair Accessory in Purple by Chantkare.
Necklaces: (Long) Mauve Inlay Pendant from Sigma Jewels. (Short) Trouble Charm Necklace by Aluinn.
Bangle: Nothing But Blue Skies by Jana Kurelek.
Rings: (Camera Right) - Golden Trinity Ring by Modern Gypsy. (Camera Left) - Excessive Love Ring by SyDS.
Earrings: No longer available. Created by Pearlie Pedro.
Glasses: J-Logic from JE Republic.
Nails: Sculpted Nails by Pixel Mode.
Face Mask: Geisha Mask from Chapeau tres Mignon - gift.
Leg Tattoo: Created by Gimmedaweed Robbiani.

It's A Wrap.

Click the pic for a bigger view of the chick.

I found this little wrap hip scarf as part of a pants outfit from BoHo HoBo and this outfit just grew from there using blue as my theme. I then remembered a blogger pack sent to me recently from Me, Myself and I that had blue in it and then a visor I purchased from LeLutka that was of a similar blue tone. Its really just a mash up of old and new from my inventory but I do love using some of my old treasures that remind me of SL times gone by.

Like the Digit Darkes Dictator Shrug no longer available but I have such fond memories of shopping there going 'Oooooo' and 'Ahhhhh' when new releases came out. Also my black bustier from BiancaF that I've worn to death but would never discard. So many of my historical purchases still hold their ground today despite the vast improvements achieved in fashion design which is a wonderful testament to our early designers who forged a path for the rest.

Click the pic for a bigger view of the chick.

So I reason that my blog is not necessarily about the latest releases on the shelves but merely a selection of looks using anything and everything I can lay my hands on that I love. I often wondered what my angle was and then it hit me. I love to paint a picture with clothes.

So here's to all those who have left SL but will live on through their creations.

And the Oscar goes to.............

Vanity Hair - Tiffany's in Essence.
TBS - Mena Skin (Blogger pack).
Divine - Blue Femme Fatale Eye Shadow.
LAQ - Dazzling Ice Blue eyes.
Je Suis - Naive nails in Black.
Digit Darkes - Dictator Shrug (no longer in SL boo hoo)
BiancaF - Black Bustier (no longer in SL boo hoo)
BoHo HoBo - Blue Hip Scarf.
Me, Myself and I - Summer Leggings, Boots, Necklace and Bracelet.
LeLutka - Vicky Visor in Navy.
UnTone - Black Earrings (no longer in SL boo hoo).
Shot at Muism.

BoHo HoBo Supports Afghani Women and Children - Part Trois

Here is my last outfit from BoHo HoBo and it's a real treasure. Called Summer Dress in Leopard and Tie Dye, the layered combination works a treat and the construction is perfect. It comes with the cute slouchy beanie in striking aqua. I wore my Pigtail Braids from Curio and managed to shrink them in edit so only the braids were visible. Worked really well I think.

Now all that's left is to get your gorgeous self over to BoHo HoBo and pick up some fabulous, quality outfits while helping the women and children of Afghanistan. It's a win, win for everybody.

My stuff:

Skin: Monica in Pale tone from Natural Beauty (new release).
Hair: Pigtail Braids in Wheat from Curio (modified).
Eyeliner Tattoo: From LionSkins.
Hat: Slouchy beanie from BoHo HoBo.
Dress: Summer Dress in Leopard and Tie Dye by BoHo HoBo.
Shoes: Salience by Maitreya.
Bag: Claire Clutch from LeLutka.
Nails: Reds from JeSuis.
Necklace and Earrings: Aquamarine by Lurani.

BoHo HoBo Supports Afghani Women and Children - Part Deux

Here is the second part of my homage to BoHo HoBo. In my previous post - here, I explained that all sales of BoHo HoBo items goes to RAWA (the Revolutionary Association of the Women of Afghanistan) to fund worthy projects to improve the lives of women and children in Afghanistan.

BoHo HoBo's designer, Trill Zapatero, has created a fabulous set here comprising of silk tank top, denim skirt, strappy sandals and earrings. The details are wonderful such as the frayed skirt hem and the colors are so vibrant and well, Boho.

I am seriously in love with this label and am so grateful that Trill sent me a selection of her pieces to enjoy.

Here I'm also wearing another release from Miah McAuley's skin line Natural Beauty. Called Monica, its a stunner.

Ze Look:

Skin: Monica in Pale tone from Natural Beauty.
Hair: Backstage in Teen Blond by Vanity Hair.
Eyeliner Tattoo: Les Makeups Eyeliner from Miamai.
Top and Skirt: From BoHo HoBo.
Shoes: From BoHo HoBo.
Earrings: From BoHo HoBo.
Bag: Everyday Purse in Yellow Gold from So Many Styles.
Necklace: Big Bead Techno Necklace from So Many Styles.

I am not happy with SL at the moment. I keep crashing when I use shadows and I'm just about ready to smack out a Linden. It has taken me three goes to try to capture my last outfit and I still haven't got it done. Seriously dudes. Please do SOMETHING.

BoHo HoBo Supports Afghani Women and Children - Part Un

I am always honored when someone sends me something that has meaning beyond just the actual product. Recently I received a lovely note card and outfits from Trill Zapatero, the designer behind BoHo HoBo, an amazing, dynamic and bold label that I had not known about. Trill wondered if I might be interested in blogging her outfits but it was when I read the story behind the label that warmed my heart.

All proceeds from the sales of items at BoHo HoBo goes to RAWA , the Revolutionary Association of the Women of Afghanistan. RAWA will use the money to fund schools, orphanages, clinics, literacy programs and income generating projects. It was rather ironic as I have always held a fascination with the Islamic way of life and came to appreciate it even more during my travels to Dubai, Bahrain, Abu Dhabi and Jordan. In saying this, the experiences of women and children in Afghanistan has been unimaginable as victims of war, where their standing has been diminished over the years and is only getting worse despite many media reports to the contrary.

To highlight what is going on, Trill has also made an Afghanistan Museum in SL that is a visual journey of the displaced and disenfranchised women and children in war torn Afghanistan. I took a visit and to say it was heart breaking is an understatement. Alternatively, you can read about the Afghanistan Museum on line here. Trill was also interviewed on Metaverse TV's MBC News - watch here.

Trill's commitment to RAWA is so wonderful and I'd have totally forgiven her if the clothing was, shall we say, not what I would normally like to review. BUT, BUT, BUT, it was FANTASTIC. So fantastic that I want to show them in three different posts. Trill, her amazing designs and her generous spirit deserves all the publicity that can come her way.

Ladies and germs, here is BoHo HoBo look number one.

The BoHo look:

Hair: Inverted in Marilyn tone by LeLutka.
Skin: Belle in Pale tone by Natural Beauty (new release).
Nails: Pink by J's Mainstore.
Top and Pants: BoHo HoBo.
Shoes: Summer Clog in Pink by K&C Fashion.
Necklace: Chalice necklace made by marcopol oh as a gift from my friend Vixie.
Necklace: C Pendant made by Diarmuid Miklos.
Ring: Pink Flower by LeeZu.
Bracelet: Red Bangle by +plus.
Bag: Glam Tote in Blue by +plus.
Shot on location at Cafe and Green Gables.

Look out for part deux.