NOVEMBER 2012
VOL. 3 ISSUE 11
MEN OF
STYLE returns
new rules new format five guys with style, substance and sex appeal
Plus!
an update on six former Men of Style
Edgy and sexy mens fashion
TAKUYA JINN of GABRIEL
EDITOR’S NOTE
How to succeed in
SL BUSINESS
without really trying
I
was asked recently by someone what I felt were the steps to run a successful business in the Second Life® virtual world. In order to answer the person I had to really think back to four years ago when I first started out and the mistakes that I have made. Below is a list of points I believe can be beneficial to anyone planning on starting a business in SL whether it’s a magazine, school, consulting service or agency.
1.
Define the type of SL business. Is it just a hobby? Do you just want to make enough in the game to support the business or do you want to generate a RL income? Everyone has their own personal goals and needs but this should be the first item addressed when planning on launching an SL business.
2.
Surround yourself with people that share your same vision. Share your over-all vision with your staff. Make sure there is a clear understanding of the objectives. Most people will appreciate being included in building a company from the ground up. Share the vision and the excitement on launching something new.
3.
Put the business ahead of your ego. If your plan is to start a business for the sole purpose of you being in the spotlight then please reconsider. If you are truly serious on wanting to have a successful business then be prepared to get your hands dirty and be in the background a good percentage of the time. 8 | MANIERA SL | mymaniera.com
4.
Never be afraid to admit you don’t have the answer. It is impossible to know everything so don’t try. Second Life is filled with talented people. Many have real life experience in areas such as marketing, graphics, finance, etc. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice most people are happy to give a helping hand.
5.
Focus on your business, not the competition. This is probably the best piece of advice I was given when I was starting out. Yes, it is important to know what the competition is doing but don’t become obsessed with the competition. Focus more on creating your own unique and high-quality brand. For the full list, check the MANIERASL website here. Wishing you much success on your future endeavours! Yours faithfully,
Topaz Joubert
OCTOBER 2012
What do royal families and Lady Gaga have in common?
FIND OUT IN THE RL EDITION OF
ISSUE 3
Nov. 15, 2012 Coming to your
iPHONE and ANDROID this holiday season.
Contact us
MANIERA LLC P.O. Box 15379 Washington D.C., 20003 (202) 294-4147 e-mail
Men of Style
ASSISTANT EDITOR’S NOTE
is here
This
is our Men of Style issue. Each year MANIERA sets aside a month to focus on men and what they do. It is our autumn celebration of maleness. We have offered the Men of Style contest for the last three years and now we are doing something different. In the past, the contest was held in the late summer and the winners were profiled in the November issue. This year, we are kicking off the contest in November with a special Men of Style review. We rounded up all the past winners we could find and in a photo spread and text explore what they are doing now. The 2012 contest will run through December and the winners will be featured on a MANIERA Calendar for 2013. We have two feature articles, all about men and their interests. The motorcycle and the open road can be thought of as one of the remaining bastions of male enjoyment and expression. In tribute to this classic expression of maleness we offer an extensive journey down old Route 66 illustrated with photos and stories that profile the men of the road. As fashion in clothing is also an expression of the male, we offer an interview with Takuya Jinn. The interviewer was so impressed with his sleek and contemporary designs for men that she has drug six male friends over to his store. The accompanying photo spread showcases his designs for 12 | MANIERA SL | mymaniera.com
DEEPTHINKER OH |Honey Bender both men and women. Our intrepid columnists have also focused on men. Fashion Passion explores the evolution of men’s fashion from the muscleman to James Bond. ManiStyle, written by a new writer, Brit Collins, also takes on the growth in clothing options for men and the rise of influential male designers who have changed the landscape of men’s fashion. Finally, in the Men’s Corner, Luc Fray offers his personal story of clothing choices to bolster his conclusion that the clothes don’t make the man, but are an expression of the man. Expressing ourselves, male or female, is the essence of our second lives. Joyfully.
OCTOBER 2012
sl
maniera staff BUSINESS Publisher and CEO Topaz Joubert
Read past issues of our digital publications in our archives.
MANIERA
Chief Operations Officer Aphrodite Brianna Sales Director Mercede Kenin
Editor in Chief Topaz Joubert Assistant Editor Deepthinker Oh Photography Editor Natzuka Miliandrovic Layout Artist Nox Deigan
Writers Aphrodite Brianna, Brittainy Collins, Carey DeCuir, Deepthinker Oh, Leah Portland, LovelyMiwako7399 Menna, Luc Fray, Nisa Constantine, Nemkatz Resident, Sherrie Shepherd, Sita Writer Photographers Berto Firanelli, Brie Pinazzo, Dahriel Resident, Eira Juliesse, Estela Parx, Falbala Fairey, Florence Babenco, Honey Bender, Jax Aster, Kynne Llewellyn, Latrelly Flux, LovelyMiwako7399 Menna, Lybra Rage, Manu Reggiane, Natzuka Miliandrovic, Pam Astonia, Rabia Baxton, Syra Hyun, Tosha Bergan, Valeria Endrizzi, Zachary Zufreur About Us MANIERASL Magazine is a fashion and lifestyle publication owned, operated and published by MANIERA LLC. Any views, opinions or interpretations expressed in columns are solely those of the author and do not represent those of Maniera LLC and its subsidiaries. Maniera LLC will not accept any responsibility for any views, opinions or interpretations expressed in the pages of MANIERASL Magazine, MyManiera.com or other communications.
MANIERA
SL
Editorial Inquiries All editorial inquires including submissions and feature ideas are to be sent to editorial@mymaniera.com. Business and advertising inquires All business inquires are to be sent to our chief operations officer at juliette.lord@mymaniera.com All advertising inquires are to be sent to advertising@mymaniera. com. Visit Us in Second Life速 and Online In-World: Citizen Kane (111,126,22) Online: www.mymaniera.com Second Life速 and Linden Lab are registered trademarks of Linden Research Inc, and Maniera LLC is in no way affiliated or sponsored by the aforementioned party.
CONTENTS
NOVEMBER 2012 VOLUME 3 ISSUE 10
COVER |NATZUKA MILIADROVIC Model: Vortimer Ethaniel in GABRIEL
34
FEATURES
LEAH PORTLAND
Get to know MANIERASL’s Fashion Passion columnist
ROUTE 66 — RIDE ON
A look at the history and beauty of the famous Route 66
22
SINGULAR FASHION DEFINES THE MAN Takuya Jinn of GABRIEL
REGULARS
38
Editor Letter Asst. Editor Letter Mani List Mani Style Fashion Passion Men’s Corner
MEN OF STYLE RETURNS FOR 2013 PLUS an update on some of our former Men of Style!
6 8 THE AUTUMN 16 ART EXPO 54 Continuing through the Autumn 56 November, Art Expo showcases 58 multiple talents
20 22 34 28 52
Boot Up 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
MAITREYA RADICAL BOOTS in cerulean reptile TEN”10 MEGAS BOOTS in pink leopard HOC THIGH BOOTS LASSITUDE & ENNUI in black LELUTKA REN BOOTS in orange
1
2
MANI LIST 16 | MANIERA SL | mymaniera.com
OCTOBER 2012
3 4
OCTOBER 2012
5
mymaniera.com | MANIERA SL | 17
STAFF SPOTLIGHT
1|
Can you tell us a little bit what you do at MANIERASL?
I have a variety of roles within MANIERASL. I began with MANIERASL as a blogger, then progressed onto becoming a regular columnist. I contribute to MANIERASL Magazine each month with the Fashion Passion column. I am also an instructor at the Maniera Institute of Style, teaching students and prospective models how to get the best out of modelling and how to execute their assignments with professionalism and precision. Occasionally I help out backstage with shows with the cuing and so on.
2|
How did you become a model and photographer?
I became a model when I joined an agency called IMA (International Model Agency) back in January 2009 (it later became known as EIMA, Elegance International Model Agency). Having never modelled on SL up to that point, I went to my very first casting there and was selected by the designer. So that’s how and where my modelling career began. I became a photographer about two years ago largely because I began to enter quite a few contests. At the time I was finding it increasingly difficult to manage the cost element of getting photos professionally done so I taught myself to make portraits.
Name:
Leah Portland
3|
Best thing you love about your job?
I would say that the best thing I love about my job is the teaching element. I love to teach. I get carried away actually. Even in real life I have no problems with standing in front of a room full of people in order to give a presentation.
4|
Where can you see yourself in the next year professionally in SL?
Rezz date:
11/28/2008 Country:
United Kingdom
6|
What is your favorite word?
Determination
7|
What is your least favorite word?
Can’t The next professional goal that I have set myself in SL is to When are you the hapbecome a writer for the real piest in SL? life MANIERA Magazine. That would be an achievement I’m happiest in SL when indeed as it is truly an amazsomeone tells me that they ing magazine produced to a love something I’ve made, very high standard. written or enjoyed a class that I have taught. Outside your job what
8|
5|
do you like to do in your free time in SL?
|LOVELYMIWAKO7399 MENNA
During my free time in SL I like to design make-up. Sometimes it can take me a whole day from the time I think of an idea for some item of make-up, to actually making it. I get so focussed with what I am doing that sometimes I continue into the night, refusing to stop until it is completed. OCTOBER 2012
9|
If you can give one piece of advice to someone new to the field of writing/modeling/photography what would it be? First and foremost, be yourself and not what others want you to be. Let your personality shine through. Lastly, I would say follow your dreams.
mymaniera.com | MANIERA SL | 21
ROUTE 66 Ride on!
The girls gassed up at Twin Arrows before once again take to Route 66 to continue their journey. |NATZUKA MILIANDROVIC
T
he old highway that used to run from Chicago to L.A. was known as US Route 66. Built in the 1920s, it was the first paved road to run across the United States. Today it has been replaced by an interstate freeway called US Interstate 40, but in places the old two-lane road is still there. If one escapes the concrete monster of Interstate 40 and wanders those old strips of bumpy asphalt, one can recapture the American dream of funky roadside diners, lonely gas stations in the desert and the romance of the highway. We mounted up our two staff members, writer Sherrie Shepherd and Photography Editor Natzuka Miliandrovic, on motorcycles and sent them down the Second Life® simulated roads of Route 66 in quest of adventure along the open road. And to our delight, they found many an exciting tale.
BY SHERRIE SHEPHERD Just like the song “Ride On” by AC/DC, SL residents can “ride on” and enjoy the 15 sims of historic Route 66. The recreation of Route 66 in SL is provided by the wellknown motorcycle creator and owner of Motorworld and Regent Estates, Motor Loon. Take heed of the warning that “No cars are allowed” — Route 66 is just for motorcycles. If you decide to ride your chopper on Route 66, Motorworld, be aware that you must join the Regent Riders Group for a fee of $250L in order to travel freely through all of the sims but it is well worth the investment. OCTOBER 2012
The historic RL Route 66 (US 66), also known as the Will Rogers Highway and colloquially known as the Main Street of America or the Mother Road, was one of the original US highways, established in November 1926. One of the most famous highways in America, it ran a total of 2,448 miles (3,940 km) through nine states from Chicago, Ill. to Los Angeles, Calif. It was recognized in popular culture by both a hit song, the “Route 66” television show in the 1960s, as well as documentaries. The highway underwent many improvements and realignments over its lifetime but was officially removed from the United States Highway System in June 1985. Portions of the road in four states have been designated a national scenic byway referred to as “Historic Route 66.” Being a novice in the biker culture, I embarked on my journey on Route 66 and soon began to appreciate the sometimes beautiful and interesting sights along the way as I imagined my virtual hair blowing and feeling the wind on my face. On a few of my excursions, I climbed on the back of a friend’s bike and let him do the driving while I got to relax and savor the views; that is, until he decided to be a daredevil and tackle the jump ramps with me screaming and protesting all the way. Thankfully, this SL mymaniera.com | MANIERA SL | 23
embodiment of Evil Kenevel is a skilled driver, and we both survived without a scratch although singed a bit from the flames of the fire jump. The seemingly endless expanse of roads meander through countryside and towns with names like Barstow, Flagstaff, Twin Arrows, Death Valley, Sunset Crater,
until I bumped into a fellowtraveler, bFlat Unplugged. An affable sort, bFlat told me, as we idled on our bikes, that he has been riding Route 66 everyday for over a year. He owns many bikes and was happy to recommend those he regards as the best SL creators have to offer. A live blues, rock and jazz per-
One of the most famous highways in America, Route 66 ran a total of 2,448 miles (3,940 km) through nine states from Chicago, Illinois to Los Angeles, California. Two Guns, Diablo Canyon and Cadillac Ranch. Crossing the picturesque bridge to the majestic Sunset Crater volcano, I decided to brave the molten lava and take a little detour to ride the steep climb to the observation deck atop the crater and rest for a while taking in the view of Cadillac Ranch below. It was at the Cadillac Ranch where tumbleweed cross your path and a neon sign advertises a vacancy at the dingy Cowboy Motel, that my pride was bruised by a bucking bronco bull, who did not care that I was an esteemed member of the press. Avoiding the occasional road kill and hapless bovines blocking my way, I continued to explore the Cadillac Ranch 26 | MANIERA SL | mymaniera.com
former, he was able to talk on many diverse topics, and I had to reluctantly tear myself away in order to continue my tour, promising to catch his next performance. What I discovered as I continued my journey was as interesting as the scenery was, were the engaging folks I met along the way. When I happened into Gadget Portal, he was hanging at a motor club as I swerved over to say hello. I asked how he came to visit Route 66 and he reflected for a moment. “I found Route 66, Motorworld, in my first couple of days in SL,” Portal said. “If I remember right, I was given the URL to the marketplace, and because it’s me, I went lookOCTOBER 2012
ing for motorcycles. I found MLCC (Motor Loon Cycle Club) bikes, and with them Motorworld.” Portal is a renter on the Death Valley sim and ever since he picked up that rental a few months back, he is on Route 66 every day. He attests to Route 66 being the his first choice in terms of being the best place to ride. “The Regent sims are definitely the largest collection, so you get the best bang for your buck, outside of the mainland,” he said. “And mainland, let’s face it, is almost too laggy to be worth it.” OCTOBER 2012
Portal, a rock and metal DJ, says that he has met many acquaintances by just hanging out at MotorWorld. I decided to take Portal’s advice and hang at Motorworld where you can always find any number of bikers parked, relaxing on their choppers and chewing the fat with friends and acquaintances. I listened in on some conversations that ran the gamut of what bikes they own in RL and where they have traveled on them to what their RL lives and professions were to just plain joking around and lots of laughs.
Sherrie and Natzuka crossed over the scenic bridge from Sunset Crater to the sleepy town of Cadillac Ranch. |NATZUKA MILIANDROVIC
mymaniera.com | MANIERA SL | 27
The spectacular view from the volcano at Sunset Crater along Route 66. |NATZUKA MILIANDROVIC
I noticed a biker nearby who seemed to be eavesdropping too. I thought I would approach him and chat a bit. Blood Hawk Warwillow said he has been coming there for two or three years. A SL lycan, vampire, heavyweight wrestling champion and builder/owner of BloodSlayer Choppers, he also felt that Route 66 was the best place he has ever ridden. He said that he likes to race with his friends and ride with his fellow Cobra Motor Club members. “I like to stop and take a break, rent a room and the next morning I ride again,” Warwillow added. Another biker, Ted Friendly, told me that he has been coming to Motorworld for a year and leads the Playground Bullies Motor Club. He added that they often take the whole crew out for rides around Route 66. Noticing a biker chick, I asked Velocity Technobabe about the kinds of people she has met here. “I have met a few interesting people here from all over the world and like anywhere, there are good ones and bad ones,” She responded. A three-year visitor to the sims and vice president of the Dixieladies Motor Club, she views motorworld as a social gathering place. “The members of most of the MCs (Motor Clubs) here
30 | MANIERA SL | mymaniera.com
are just regular people who would like to be in an MC in RL but for whatever reason cannot, however, they can do that here,” she said. “It’s especially good here because you can socialize with folks and no one judges you on what you ride as long as it’s a bike.” I rode along with Renee Lynch for a while who told me that she thinks Route 66 is “an awesome ride with spectacular views and the sexiest people in SL.” “Route 66 is like the old west in RL; wild, dangerous and free; untamed by anyone, yet populated by all,” Lynch said. I asked her to take me to her favorite spot and as I followed her I realized why. We left the road and drove down a hill to the water. At sunset it was very serene, and I noticed there were places to relax and a jet ski for those who were more adventurous. “I can sit here for hours and just dream,” Lynch commented. Lynch also told me that she met her best friend here, Rhapsody Kenyon, who she described as “sweet as cotton candy but can be as mean as a pit viper.” We laughed about that and agreed that friendships can be forged here as we looked out at the beautiful sunset together.
OCTOBER 2012
singular
FASHION
defines the man
Takuya Jinn
GABRIEL BY SITA WRITER
|NOX DEIGAN
There are two kinds of men RL collections of Japanese in the world: those that like designer Junya Watanabe to look stylish and those who who attended the Bunka prefer to be the best-dressed Fashion College in Tokyo. man in the room – no excusWatanabe then went on to es! work for Comme des GarGabriel, a store in Second çons before starting his own Life®, owned by designer line of cutting edge trendy and CEO Takuya Jinn, is the clothing collections for men Rosetta Stone for men that and women. want to be the best-dressed In looking at the men’s on the grid. Here, men will designs created by Jinn it is find the building blocks for a obvious he follows RL fashion well-roundtrends closely. ed SL “I enjoy folI like to experiment with cutwardrobe lowing fashion ting-edge textures of fabrics, collections in that ranges and I enjoy trying to create from tradiRL because inventive tailoring and draptional and I base all my ing in terms of style. Mesh casual to designs on allows me the freedom to trendy and what is hapdesign from my heart. evocative. pening on the The clothes runways in JINN here are so RL,” he said. refined and “My goal in SL singular is to design a that a man needs little else to superlative collection of casudistinguish him. al and daring clothes for men Jinn found SL while flipping and women.” through a magazine and beA perfectionist, Jinn is chalcame intrigued. At first he ran lenged to make the best caa real estate company but as sual and suggestive designs time went on, he shifted his in-world residents both male focus. and female. “My first design for men “I enjoy looking at RL fashwas a necklace that was ion trends and then thinking well-received,” Jinn said. “En- out of the box and designcouraged, I decided to deing clothes in SL that are not sign men’s clothes because possible to wear in RL,” Jinn of my RL interest in fashion.” explained. “I find inspiration Some of Jinn’s men’s for my designs in almost evclothes are reminiscent of the erything… beautiful scenery,
OCTOBER 2012
mymaniera.com | MANIERA SL | 35
an amazing sunrise or sunset, sexy and stunning avatars and people and all types of music.” Looking forward, Jinn wants to design clothes that fit a multitude of shapes and attitudes in SL. This has caused him to look toward the newest frontier in Second Life fashion design: the introduction of mesh. “I find that using high quality and extremely accurate textures that are perfectly highlighted combined with mesh allows so many more possibilities in terms of my designs,” Jinn added. “I like to experiment with cutting-edge textures of fabrics, and I enjoy trying to create inventive tailoring and draping in terms of style. Mesh allows me the freedom to design from my heart.” When it comes to the choosing clothes, whether a suit, something sexy or casual, one of the most important things to consider is – you guessed it – the texture and design of the fabric. Jinn’s sporty aesthetic is embellished with an injection of modernist colors like metallic sepia and black that can be paired with a variety of hip, sexy shirts to break up a typically neutral palette. For example, consider the zipper and buckle-laden jackets and slim trousers or 36 | MANIERA SL | mymaniera.com
cargo pants equipped with technical details and colorblocked sweaters that really stand out. For a smoking hot and sophisticated look, try the black leather wrap-style shawl-collared jacket with buckles and pair it with sleek leather pants. Other key looks include cropped shirt jackets with couture-like detailing as well as lambskin bomber jackets with signature slender arms and a detachable shearling collar that will serve quite nicely through fall and winter - or try the really hip down vest with detachable fur collar that sizzles with a metallic edge in black or brown. For every whimsical piece, there are a dozen basic tailored suits that are outstanding for the use of texture and splashes of colored vests and ties. Innovative, fresh, sexy and avant-garde, Jinn’s collections for men and women are a welcome addition to SL’s vast fashion machine.
OCTOBER 2012
So, do you have what it takes to be a
MANIERA inMAN OF STYLE 2013? Check out how to become a MANIERASL Man of Style for 2013
The Rules The Flickr The Deadline: Jan. 4, 2013
MANIERASL Magazine caught up with six Men of Style from the last three years to see what they’re up to... some created landmark modeling careers; some found RL love in SL; another became a well-known store owner and all stole the hearts of our readers. MANIERASL takes you back for an update with:
Ricoracer Flux Maddox Kaestner Seedus Aldrin Tristan Tiaret Khurt Vhargon Vortimer Ethaniel wearing fashions by GABRIEL
|NATZUKA MILIANDROVIC & EIRA JULIESSE
38 | MANIERA SL | mymaniera.com
OCTOBER 2012
MANIERA Man of Style 2009
Q.
RicoRacer Flux
Since you were named a Man of Style what have you been doing?
I have had a wonderful and amazing career as a model in Second Life since I won MANIERA Men of Style in 2009. I have been blessed and truly honored to be named BOSL Best Male Top Model 2011, Mister Virtual World 2010 Second Runner Up as Mr Egypt, The Face of Moolto 2010, Mr. SLGLAM, MANIERASL Magazine’s Ones to Watch 2010, Opulent Magazine’s SL Hottest Hunk 2010, Too Sexy Magazine’s SL Most Desirable Men 2011 and many others. Aside from modeling, I write freelance for many SL magazines and run my blog: Confessions of a SL Top Model. My most proudest moment though was launching the STAND4LOVE campaign with my hubby Editorial Clarity. This year, I have cut back on my modeling career to focus more on other challenges such as promoting The Fashion Teller artistic storybooks. I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has helped me, mentored me and supported me throughout my extraordinary journey. I couldn’t have done it without the people who had given me the many opportunities to shine and believed in my abilities to succeed. Thank you so much.
Q.
Q.
Can you tell us how you felt being named a Man of Style?
When I won MANIERA Men of Style 2009, What was it about the Men of I was only a few months old in Second Life and Style contest that made you had just discovered modeling. I was brand new first enter? and winning this contest launched my career and helped put my name in the spotlight. This was one I was with my friend Mikey Batriani when we of my very first job as a model and it was a huge saw the contest and we both literally entered at the opportunity being featured in MANIERASL Magavery last second of the deadline. I was very interzine with the picture also being advertised in the ested because the contest was very different from all Sartoria stores. I felt very honored and extremely the others. It is not just about modeling or fashion. blessed to have had this opportunity. When I look It is also about personality and the whole package. back and reminisce, it still put a smile on my face. OCTOBER 2012
mymaniera.com | MANIERA SL | 41
MANIERA Man of Style 2009
Q.
Vortimer Ethaniel
Since you were named a Man of Style what have you been doing?
Other than the modelling for Sartoria, I only come to SL to roleplay. I love to write and roleplay on here. It brings me a lot of satisfaction. The interaction with other people and the creativity it requires to write and improvise is something I really enjoy. I roleplay in Gor mainly because I am also interested in the (dominant/ submissive) scene. And, of course, I come to SL to hang out with my girlfriend Lovisa. We are in a long-distance relationship and have met a couple of times even though there’s an ocean between us.
Q.
What was it about the Men of Style contest that made you first enter?
Pure fate. I saw the magazine in a sim where I was looking for clothes, read about the contest and decided to enter. It looked glossy and although I’m not really the “glossy” type I was apparently vain enough to give it a go.
Q.
Can you tell us how you felt being named a Man of Style?
That felt amazing. I had never entered a contest like that before. Accidentally came across it and figured why not. To actually win it too, was something I hadn’t expected really. I was lucky enough that aside of winning the Men of Style contest, I was asked to pose for Sartoria as well. I had my picture on the front of their store for quite a while. I had some real fun doing it all.
OCTOBER 2012
mymaniera.com | MANIERA SL | 43
MANIERA Man of Style 2010
Q.
Maddox Kaestner
Since you were named a Man of Style what have you been doing?
Let’s see... my modeling career really took off after that, and I am involved with many amazing top agencies and magazines. I have held some prestigious positions: instructor, model manager, agency director and agency CEO for some great companies. I took a little time away from SL earlier this year, about 6 months, and since my return I have been trying to lessen the amount of time I put into work and am learning to enjoy my SL life. I have some great friends who have helped immensely. I’ve taken up DJ’ing here and there for fun. I’m raising little rats.... um, I mean, Fennux. And I’ve recently been spending time with an amazing woman who has become very special to me, and I’m looking forward to what the future holds.
Q.
What was it about the Men of Style contest that made you first enter?
Well, honestly I don’t enter a lot of contests. I’ve always been a big fan of MANIERASL Magazine and had heard many great things about the company. After looking over the contest rules, I was intrigued by the format of the contest as it wasn’t just about models or a good-looking photo, but they also incorporated getting to know the person through a questionnaire, which I thought was very interesting and a refreshing change from most of the contests on the grid.
OCTOBER 2012
Q.
Can you tell us how you felt being named a Man of Style?
Being picked as a Man of Style was a tremendous honor. I was pretty awestruck that I had been chosen out of the number of entries I’m sure they received. I definitely chalk it up to one of the top accomplishments of my career and am extremely grateful to have been selected.
mymaniera.com | MANIERA SL | 45
MANIERA Man of Style 2010
Q.
Seedus Aldrin
Since you were named a Man of Style what have you been doing?
I more or less have been dedicating my time to real life for the past two years, but from time to time I log into SL just to see what is happening. Meeting Eira (Juliesse, MANIERASL photographer) has given new meaning to my life, as I moved literally from the east coast to the west coast just to be with her. I have never loved or have been loved like this before, and without her I would be nothing. Currently I have returned to the collegiate arena to fulfill a lifelong dream of earning my medical degree. Once that is complete, we plan on continuing to build our life together as husband and wife. I do foresee us both getting involved again in fashion and photography again on SL. I would hope by then some more technological advancement could be made in SL that would enhance and advance the producing of fashion shows. The advancement made with mesh has been great but I still yearn for a lag free, high end production fashion show.
Q.
What was it about the Men of Style contest that made you first enter?
At first I was just contest hungry, but as I learned more about the magazine, the company and the people behind it all, I knew I had to be a part of it. MANIERA has evolved over the years and continues to evolve to this day, and anyone looking to get into the world of fashion or modeling should look to MANIERA to do so. OCTOBER 2012
Q.
Can you tell us how you felt being named a Man of Style?
It was a great privilege and honor, and a surprise. I was still rather new to SL and was just getting my feet wet in the world of fashion and modeling. It definitely boosted my career in the business being a part of MANIERA. It was just an amazing year for me in SL and RL; I had no idea that being awarded the title of Man of Style would change not only my SL but my RL. Maybe it was luck or chance, maybe it was fate but whatever it was, it would impact my life forever for it was MANIERA that brought me together with my SL love of a lifetime, that would take me cross-country to begin a new life with her. mymaniera.com | MANIERA SL | 47
MANIERA Man of Style 2010
Q.
Tristan Tiaret
Since you were named a Man of Style what have you been doing?
Since being named in 2010 I was relatively new to my modeling career in SL, and I have gone on to many great and wonderful things. I excelled in my modeling career focusing on magazine and print work and have had the distinct honor in being MANIERASL Magazine numerous times as well as many others. I’ve enjoyed runway work and have also expanded my career options and have become a successful writer and even had my own column called “Men’s Corner” for MANIERASL Magazine. MANIERA, particularly Topaz Jobert, and her genius staff have been like a family to me in so many ways I will forever keep them close to my heart.
Q.
What was it about the Men of Style contest that made you first enter?
I was intrigued by the contest itself and when I first learned of it, it gave me the opportunity to do some research about the MANIERA organization and its many accomplishments and knew I had stumbled upon something pretty fantastic. The more I discovered the more I wanted it to be a big part of my SL life. I entered into the MANIERA Institute of Style and became fast friends with a core group of people whom I remain friends with to this day. I feel the best thing about this particular contest that MANIERA does each year is not only is it unique in the fact that it does not use only male models and is a favorite among the ladies each year but also takes a close look at each individual not only for their handsome avatar but also the content of his character. That is what truly makes this experience truly unique. OCTOBER 2012
Q.
Can you tell us how you felt being named a Man of Style?
When I was chosen one of the winners for MANIERA Men of Style, I couldn’t believe I was going to be part of one of the biggest and prestigious organizations in all of SL. I remember upon hearing the news I was so shocked and elated! It was indeed my proudest moment, and I will never forget all the unbelievable experiences and friends I have made throughout this journey. mymaniera.com | MANIERA SL | 49
MANIERA Man of Style 2011
Q.
Khurt Vhargon
Since you were named a Man of Style what have you been doing?
I have continued with my tattoo store and opened NV Corsetry as well. It has been a pretty good success and has been an exciting time.
Q.
What was it about the Men of Style contest that made you first enter?
Truth be told, I did it on a dare/bet. Some people I knew convinced me to apply for it. Winning cost me money, I bet I didn’t have a chance. Pretty funny stuff.
Q.
Can you tell us how you felt being named a Man of Style?
It was actually a pretty cool thing. I’m not the model type. I was a bit surprised to have made it to the finals much less actually be chosen.
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|ANGELI OPERTITI
Autumn Art Expo BY DEEPTHINKER OH
In the July 2012 issue, I wrote an article about Zena Zemija and her plans for a huge Autumn Art Expo. It’s October now and the expo has been running for two months and will continue through November at Le Chateau de Roissy sim. All of the art is original and conforms fully to the standards of the Legal Quality Art Galleries organization. The expo is hosted on a French village themed sim and everywhere you look are paintings, photographs, sculptures and interactive installations surrounded by falling leaves and a crisp touch of Fall. It is really a lovely setting. Over 30 artists are exhibiting their works and there must be hundreds of items. It is really an explosion of art. Many are artistic studies of female nudes and others cover all forms of expression: realism, abstract, impressionism, landscapes, magical themes, still life and 3-D art. There are sculptures and at one huge painting, you climb a ladder leaning against the painting and become a part of the art. This particular piece is called “The Connection Between” by Nima Benoir. There are several permanent art galleries at Le Chateau de Roissy sim: one owned by Zena Zemija, the organizer of the expo, and a new gallery owned by Laura Audebarn. More information is available at zenazemlja.blogspot.nl and see the original article, “Zena Zemija: Agent & Artist” on pages 20-23 of MANIERASL Magazine for July 2012. 52 | MANIERA SL | mymaniera.com
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MANI STYLE
MEN! MEN! MEN! BY BRIT COLLINS
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|BERTO FIRANELLI
his month we are focusing on the all important Mars while Venus takes a trip to the day spa for much needed relaxation. It is that time of year again in Second Life® where we celebrate the Men of Style. They are the content creators who help bring these virtual visions to life, and use the tools of our virtual world to place their mark upon it. Here in ManiStyle we are going to look at the influence of real life men’s fashion and how it helped to take the virtual man from the dark ages of fashion and bring him forward to stand in his own spotlight. In the past, the male avatar was always overshadowed by the female when it came to fashion. This is no longer the case. Men’s fashion in our virtual domain has always been an area which was lacking, both in content and designers. In the past two years, many designers have sprung forward, creating garments that not only reflect the virtual man but also the latest trends in fashion wear for men from such top designers in real life as Hugo Boss, Calvin Klein, Giorgio Armini, Prada, Hillfiger, Ralph Lauren and Gucci, just to name a few. These top fashion houses are known in reality for elegant suits, accessories, casual wear, sports wear and even beauty. We are all familiar with the now famous Hugo Boss slogan “Who’s the Boss,” highlighting an elegantly attired man in a welltailored suit that shows the epitome of the corporate man with power and strength. Calvin Klein brought the male model into focus, giving him sex appeal and made him a figure to strive for. Armani led the OCTOBER 2012
way for male formal attire bringing danger and elegance to a man in a black tux. Now these influences have shown up in Second Life. The impact of this new trend has been enhanced with the addition of mesh designing. We have Utopia, iNEDIT and Hoorenbeek establishing themselves as design houses who bring a sense of realism to their designs. Egoisme, Gabriel and Kal Rau are known for their casual wear for men that brings the same sex appeal one would find from the Calvin Klein label with low-cut jeans, well-fitted shirts and accessories made to stand out and compliment the man – not overwhelm. Kmadd brought us men’s beauty with their various hair, eyes and skins. GOS changed how we would look at men’s footwear with the release of their [DOCS] boots. Be warned, ladies… a new age in fashion design has been born in our virtual realm. This is the Age of Man, and he is making himself known. • For casual wear and accessories you may enjoy a visit to the following stores: Egoisme Kal Rau Gabriel • If you are looking for suits or a more formal attire, you may be interested in the following stores: SF Designs Utopia Hoorenbeek
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FASHION PASSION
MEN OF STYLE journey on BY LEAH PORTLAND
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|JAX ASTER
hen it comes to the topic of style, countless hours can be spent debating about what looks impressive, smart and fashionable or dated, controversial and even out of place. The importance of styles and trends is dependent upon concepts such as time, space, circumstance and preference, to mention but a few. In Western lands today for example, styles of dress are used to express a range of traits including personality, individuality or a sense of belonging to a particular cultural group or movements. In lands where survival is the main focus, styles of dress may be more practical and based on modesty and comfort. This applies to styles of dress for both men and women. It was not that long ago though that the main focus of Western fashion styles and trends for men drew upon the portrayal of masculinity. This was in part due to the traditional roles of men and the physical nature of their jobs. The nature of the work they undertook meant that they needed to be physically strong. As a result the muscular man was soon to be seen as the epitome of maleness. As physical work gave way to more service jobs, the smart, clean-shaven businessman emerged as the symbol of wealth, power and success
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and, of course, masculinity. This was the type of man that women were being encouraged to seek out. The popularity of the James Bond secret agent character further underpinned this classic style. As more men began to take interest in modelling and dress and grooming - pursuits that were once considered to be typically female - a new, more modern male image was appearing on the horizon. The widespread public use of the Internet then went global making it much easier for people to express themselves. This new found freedom of expression has brought with it yet another change in masculinity. In fact, it is more accurate to say that the traditional lines which defined masculinity and femininity have become blurred. Equality is celebrated as success as people share ideas and styles cross over between the sexes. Remember Beckham in the skirt? Today’s man of style dresses to please himself. He is not afraid to play with new looks and is confident enough to set new trends. It is no longer about muscles, body mass or height. Today’s man of style is more concerned with what combinations work together and what boundaries he can stretch to their limits.
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MEN’S CORNER
Changing Yourself BY LUC FRAY
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|BERTO FIRANELLI
hange. Whether it’s for good or for bad, it’s constant both in the real world and in the metaverse. I can’t say that the winds of change didn’t blow in my direction. They did. Although, in a curious way, I’ve grown a lot, I could still say I’m still the same. Once in awhile, I look back from where I’ve come from and where I’ve started and have to smile fondly. When I first started in Second Life, I had no idea what I was doing. I was completely clueless where to buy what or where to go to. Heck, I didn’t even know how to use the controls. There were numerous times I thought that being on Second Life® was not worth the frustration because really, when the lag monster appears, it’s gigantic and monstrous, and it paralyzes me to my spot. However, since my wife Tabby, with whom I had joined Second Life, enjoys it and her excitement usually is very contagious, I decided to stick with the game. Like all fresh-blooded newbies who didn’t know any experienced SL residents, I learned mostly by reading blogs, listening to commentaries in groups and by observing other avatars. And yes, as much as I hate to admit it, even getting dragged along by my wife to hunts, sales and events helped a lot too. In time, I’ve learned to choose wisely which clothes and creations are of impressive quality and which of them would fit me. Of the latter criteria, I mostly choose clothes which are more or less casual and comfortable. My two-cents is that clothes and items are made for the OCTOBER 2012
body and not vice versa. Although some would disagree, I respect their way of thinking but have to say that individuality is quite limited when it comes to avatar appearances. It’s hard enough not to look like every other avatar in the grid, so when you have to edit yourself just to fit into the items that you have to wear, wouldn’t there be a chance that you’ll be looking like the other customers who might be buying the same creations? My shape, of course, is something that I’ve made. I’ve had a lot of revisions of it since I’ve joined Second Life, keeping three things in mind every time I do edit it: what I want, what Tabby’s opinion of it is, and whether or not it fits to the items I generally wear. I don’t mind meeting halfway, actually, but if it requires too much editing that it seems like my avatar isn’t mine anymore, I just automatically not bother with the stuff anymore. I understand that the choices for models/formats for texture maps are quite few, and bring limitations to creators and designers. I cannot count the many times I’ve turned down buying something despite wanting it a lot due to the fact that it does not fit me. A shame. Perhaps someday, one size will fit all. Fashion may be art, but just like all art, it is subjective and caters to the viewer’s taste. For my part, comfort will always be a priority. No matter how cool the clothes articles may be, if you’re uneasy with changing your appearance just to “fit in,” you’ll always feel awkward. Confidence, to me, will perpetually be the best thing you can ever wear.
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