Celebrating my UCS Final

Last night I had my final assessment of the course with Dean Janet Brink. I've worked so hard these past three weeks learning all of the runway formations, styling outfits and pose sets, and blogging the whole process. It has been an incredible experience, and I thank everyone who has helped me grow along the way. I arrived for my final in a black knit top with striking silver floral pattern, paired with metallic silver pants and silver accent jewelry. The leg warmers and high neck collar make this casually chic outfit quite comfortable and relaxing, perfect for a final test. While the end of this course is drawing near, I know that it is only the beginning of my modeling experience.






My Style:

Top: Larissa in Black by Styles by Danielle
Pants: Victoria Pants by Anin a Gris
Legwarmers: Larissa in Black by Styles by Danielle
Shoes: Caresse Noir Intense by N-core
Earrings: Olimpia in Black by GeWunjo
Bracelets: Aksana in Black by GeWunjo
Belt: Atlan with Sunglasses in Silver by GeWunjo
Nails: Prim Nails by Sexy Mamas
Makeup: Strawberry Lip Creme by M.O.C.K
Eyelashes: BlackDarling by Redgrave





Janet also asked me to change into swimwear during the final. The misty somber mood of the last portrait just didn't fit with this flirty little number, so I adjusted the windlight settings to something a bit brighter. This floral bikini in red, white, violet and gold tones is paired with floral ruffle heels and a large flower in my hair. The fashionable summer bag slung over my shoulder is perfect for carrying all those beach essentials. Now only if it were summer and not spring! I also couldn't help but notice the graduation window sign in the background... I see it as a sign of good luck!





My Style:

Bikini: Hibiscus Garden by Shiki
Necklace: Sunara by Burroughs
Earrings & Bracelet: Ma Songe Gold by Chop Zuey
Bracelet 2: Skinny Gold/Resin Bangle, Miam Miam
Bracelet 3: Thick Gold/Resin Bangle, Miam Miam
Flower: Hibiscus Hairpin by VioMagic
Hair: Ruri Type A in Brown Diamond by D!va
Bag: Marina Shoulder Tote in White by Indy&Co.
Shoes: Hana White Patent by Maitreya
Nails: Prim Nails by Sexy Mamas
Makeup: Strawberry Lip Creme by M.O.C.K





As one of the many proofs of knowledge during the final, Janet asked me to do a character test... and then blog about it. No one likes to revert back to their original newbie self, much less have to take a picture of it for all to see. But I had to laugh, because it shows just how far I've come as an avatar in Second Life. A little reminder of where we all started is both humbling and empowering. Like so many girls in this world, I had the desire to be as beautiful, poised and successful as the models I saw before me. And I am certainly well on my way. This snapshot is a character test in more ways than one, and it's a memento of that modeling dream.

As our final blog requirement, Janet asked us to visit each Classic w/ Style venue stage and take a picture. I must say, it felt absolutely great walking down each runway! CWS has numerous venues for their full schedule of shows, and I can't wait to take part in them. Here's a peek at each set:

The Ballroom - This stage is bright and colorful with a sequence of changing tones on the runway. See my previous post about the Styles by Danielle Fashion Show for more pictures of this venue.

 

The Black & White Runway - This is where graduation will take place. Its classic decor and pond beneath the runway create an incredibly elegant atmosphere.

The Beach Runway - An airy outdoor venue with intimate red cushion seating and tables for two along the runway. This is a lovely place to host and watch a fashion show.

The Blue Venue - Despite its name, this runway is stunning in red and gold. It is another more intimate scaled stage venue, yet full of class for any show.

The Main Stage - This is where I won my first styling competition, so I have fond memories of this place. Thematic styling shows are held here three times a week, making it a very active venue.

The Dome Stage - Stunningly elegant, this runway is bathed in light and fitted with beautiful sculptures and water fountains. It is an absolutely lovely venue.

The Red Pageant Stage - This is where I watched the Ms. Sophisticated Pagent earlier this month. See my post for more photos of this breathtakingly large and gorgeous venue.

     ☆´¨)  xoxo,                                                                                                                                
(.¸.•´ (¸.•` ☆ .:. Laura Reverie ..:☆¨*•.
                                                                  ´☆. 3.28.13

Photo Review of my UCS Training

As I prepare for my final, I thought I'd do a photo review of my experiences at the University of Classic w/ Style. I have grown so much as a model during these intensive classes, practice and assignments. What I have learned and experienced through this school is undoubtedly high caliber and "simply the best." Here are just a few snapshot moments from the past three weeks:


Basking in the sun with my new modeling shape following our first class.

My Style:

Swimwear: Tropical Bikini by Chrysalis
Earrings: Blossom Earrings by Glitterati
Shoes: Soleil in Mango by N-core
Hair: Ruri Type A in Onyx by D!va
Nails: Prim Nails by Sexy Mamas


Exploring the university campus and its practice runways as a new student.

My Style:

Dress: Peplum Dress in Sequined Gold by Ricielli
Necklace: Kita Kamakura by Chop Zuey
Bracelet: Ling-Ling by Chop Zuey
Shoes: Sense 2 in Champagne by N-core
Hair: Rio in Brown Diamond by D!va
Lipstick: Strawberry Lip Creme by M.O.C.K
Eyeshadow: [K]Ojen MK02 by KOOQLA





Entering the Ms. USA Photo Contest in hopes of being among the top ten in the pageant.

My Style:

Dress: L'Opera by Tres Beau
Necklace: Lily Necklace in Gold and White by PurpleMoon
Bracelet & Ring: Diamond Tennis Bracelet & Ring by Lazuri
Shoes: Zen in Pure Black by N-core
Bag: Cristal Mesh Gold Clutch by Septem Essentia
Hair: Nimue by Maitreya
Nails: Prim Nails by Sexy Mamas





In the audience experiencing the Ms. Sophisticated pageant produced by Classic w/ Style.

My Style:

Dress: Marline Mini Dress by Asteria Creations
Belt: Marline Belt by Asteria Creations
Necklace: En Tournant CFP Exclusive by Lazuri
Earrings: En Tournant CFP Exclusive by Lazuri
Bracelet: En Tournant CFP Exclusive by Lazuri
Shoes: Sense 2 in Champagne by N-core
Hair: Nimue by Maitreya
Eyelashes: BlackDarling by Redgrave




Dancing in the couture Black Swan-inspired outfit that won my first styling competition.

My Style:

Dress: Kathena Flexi Dress in Noir by Bliss Couture

Shoes: Maitreya Gold Foxy in Black by Maitreya

Bracelet and Ring: Romance in F by Chop Zuey

Hair and Accessory: Babette in Noir by Vanity Hair

Eye Makeup: Nina as the Black Swan by Fhang Candy
Eyelashes: Sparkle by Redgrave
Lipstick: Pohutukawa Lip Gel by M.O.C.K

Arriving in style with a description of this beautiful dress for class with Janet.

My Style:

Dress: Linda in Black and White by PurpleMoon
Jewelry: Trifles Black Diamond by Chop Zuey
Shoes: Caresse Noir Intense by N-core
Hair: Nayomi in Onyx by D!va
Lipstick: Strawberry Lip Creme by M.O.C.K
Eyeshadow: [K]Ojen MK02 by KOOQLA
Nails: Prim Nails by Sexy Mamas

Casual rehearsal of the biography formation on the beach practice runway.

My Style:

Outfit: Dakota Dress in Opium Delicate by Maitreya
Earrings: Lux Nomad Earrings in Carbon by RE
Bracelets: Kharma Earth Silver Bangles by Chop Zuey
Stockings: Tights Black (more sheer) by Izzie's
Boots: Radical Boots in Suede Coal by Maitreya
Hair: Senri2 Type B in Onyx by D!va
Eyelashes: BlackDarling by Redgrave





Performing an individual style formation during my second assessment.

My Style:

Outfit: Dans la Ville Blouse & Shorts in White & Classic Blue by Fashion!
Long Necklace: Khaleesi's Temptation by Maxi Gossamer
Short Necklace & Bracelet: Emily by Burroughs
Earrings & Cuff: Hoop Earrings & Cuff in Gold by Erratic
Shoes: Sense 2 in Champagne by N-core
Hair: Nimue by Maitreya
Eyelashes: BlackDarling by Redgrave




Getting ready to go off to another class with UCS's fabulous trainers.

My Style:

Dress: Silk Tucked Pencil Dress, Salmon Coral by Mon Tissu
Necklace: Uva Necklace by Miel
Earrings: Eva in Gold by GeWunjo
Bracelet: Cuff in Gold by Erratic
Shoes: Serenity Heels in Paisley by Purrfect 10
Hair: Nimue by Maitreya
Makeup: Tia Maria Lip Gel by M.O.C.K





Feeling great after practicing the graduation formation on the Black & White stage.

My Style:

Dress: Mignon Evening in Red by Maitreya
Necklace & Earrings: Sarah by Burroughs
Bracelets: Kharma Earth Silver Bangles by Chop Zuey
Shoes: Illusion XtremeHeel in Silver by N-core
Hair: Senri2 Type B in Onyx by D!va
Makeup: Strawberry Lip Creme by M.O.C.K
Nails: Prim Nails by Sexy Mamas





Posing in the Avant Garde outfit that I styled for my Midterm Assessment.

My Style:

Dress: Leonie by Pipins
Necklace & bracelet: Aphrodite by Finesmith
Earrings: Shae by Finesmith
Hair & headdress: Selma in Ebony by Tukinowaguma
Makeup: Glitter Makeup 1~f by VoguE
Face tattoo: Spiral in silver by White Widow
Contacts: 3 Eyes by Dream Ink Design
Shoes: Kick! Ankle boots in PlainWhitesilver by Finesmith




What a journey it has been to reach this point in my modeling training. Thank you to my wonderful instructors and classmates for helping to make this such a positive and enriching experience!

     ☆´¨)  xoxo,                                                                                                                                
(.¸.•´ (¸.•` ☆ .:. Laura Reverie ..:☆¨*•.
                                                                  ´☆. 3.27.13

Avant Garde Styling Midterm

Yesterday I achieved yet another major milestone in my modeling career. I am so excited and thankful to have passed my UCS midterm! A major part of the assessment was styling an avant garde outfit, and here is my description of what I prepared:

Good evening and thank you for attending the March class midterm styling event tonight. My name is Laura Reverie and I am a model-in-training with hopes of graduating from the University of Classic w/ Style later this month. For our avant garde assignment, I am wearing the stunning Leonie dress by Pipins.

The designer, Angiliak Crystal, created this gown as part of her Phantom range and it was originally paired with a long white fur boa and wide brimmed hat to blend elements of classic design with avant garde. Through some substitutions, I have decided to take this dress in an even more avant direction. Yet it still honors the duplicitous elegance that the designer had intended.

What I absolutely love about this gown is its shifting and category-defying quality. It has seemingly angular lines in the many intersecting shapes, yet the forms are slightly curved and rounded. At one glance the dress appears to be soft and matte in texture, while at other times its shiny surfaces seem rigid and hard while glistening under the light. Even the color plays upon opposites, being predominantly silver yet taking on gold tones.

I have chosen accessories that complement the dress and emphasize this play on duality. Around my neck and wrist I wear the Aphrodite necklace and bracelet in silver by Finesmith. They echo the cyber flower-like quality of the dress's large petal forms and extending curls. The tightly fitting jewelry has metallic looking orchids on either side with dangerously curved spikes extending from their centers. It addresses the question of whether this outfit has the elegant sweetness of a flower, or if it is dangerous and more violent in nature. In addition to considering its attitude, it raises another question: is this ensemble organic or metal in material?

My Selma hairstyle was designed by Tukinowaguma and it is molded into angled yet rounded forms that echo the large upward petal shapes of the dress. A long ponytail sweeps down from my head like the lower lines of the garment. In my silvery hair I wear a crescent moon-shaped headdress that mirrors the rounded peaks of the gown, which could be interpreted as rippling across water under the moonlight. It has me asking whether the dress is liquid or solid, or if it is a substance that transforms between the two.

When I turn, the dress resembles an ancient sea urchin with tentacles that slowly sweep across the ocean floor in the way that the long train of the dress billows and sweeps around me long after I have stopped moving. The skirt flutters and breathes on its own as you pan around it, which gives life to an otherwise inanimate piece of clothing. And for that matter, when I wear this outfit am I Earthly and human or other-worldly and alien? The accessories and elaborate silver spiral makeup by White Widow help bring the dress to a futuristic cyber state.

This dress is a complex interchange between opposites and my perceptions of it are always in flux. It is thought provoking and a true conversation piece. It is avant garde in all ways imaginable, and I believe that I have elevated it to a new level with this styling.

This ensemble consists of:

Dress: Leonie by Pipins
Necklace & bracelet: Aphrodite by Finesmith
Earrings: Shae by Finesmith
Hair & headdress: Selma in Ebony by Tukinowaguma
Makeup: Glitter Makeup 1~f by VoguE
Face tattoo: Spiral in silver by White Widow
Contacts: 3 Eyes by Dream Ink Design
Shoes: Kick! Ankle boots in PlainWhitesilver by Finesmith

Thank you, Janet, for opening my eyes to the wonderful possibilities of avant garde. I would like to express my gratitude to the staff of UCS, especially Tiffani and Janet, for the knowledge, time, dedication, patience and support that they have offered me during my training. I would also like to thank the fabulous new owners of Classic w/ Style for continuing this modeling school and venue. I am so impressed by your skills and honored to be among you.

     ☆´¨)  xoxo,                                                                                                                                
(.¸.•´ (¸.•` ☆ .:. Laura Reverie ..:☆¨*•.
                                                                  ´☆. 3.25.13

Fashion Show Featuring Styles by Danielle

Today I attended a fashion show featuring one of Second Life's finest clothing lines: Styles by Danielle. I was thoroughly impressed with the new line of clothing that walked down the runway. The owner and designer, Ms. Dani Plassitz, has created an incredibly versatile range of clothing, from casual to evening wear, and all of the items are finely textured and simply gorgeous. Ms. Plassitz looked stunning in her incredible DANIELLE NIAMH gown in white.

First on the runway was the DANIELLE CHRISTABEL gown in both blue and silver, worn by CWS Models Liberty and Laci. This alluring satin gown comes with a coordinating feather boa and the beautiful high heeled DANIELLE CHRISTABEL PUMPS match perfectly with the gowns.

Next on the runway was the gorgeous satin DANIELLE SAKURA gown in both blue and black, worn by CWS models Nina, Lisana and Lady. It has a flowered print V-shaped bust line and a striking petal-printed ruffle that flows down the body into a wide open side skirt that shows off the leg. The back of the skirt is shaped as a long train that undulates with every step. Long satin gloves trimmed with flowers and a lovely flower-shaped headpiece provide the final touchs for this gorgeous gown.

The lovely DANIELLE VERA gown in both white and black was worn by CWS Models Tiffany, Vicky and Kiralyn. This is a stunning gown with its lace V irregular shaped top and delicate lace caps that fall off the shoulders. A wide, flowing and transparent skirt starts under the breast line and flares down to the floor. Wide satin straps cover the breasts and glide down the front of this incredible dress.

The DANIELLE JULIET ROYAL gown is showcased here by CWS Models Laylah and Nina. This full length formal gown is shown in a unique print. The gown fits form at the waist to the thigh and then flows out into a full floor length double layered skirt. The eyelet edge is repeated at the bottom of the outer skirt.

Simply D'Best Model Ms. Summitt Beaumont wore the DANIELLE FINESSE gown in purple. This satin dress has a long strip of lace that runs the length of the body and crowns the shoulder in a tussle of coordinating fabric.

And another Simply D'Best Model, Ms. Thrishia Denver, wore the DANIELLE SOPHIA gown in Viola. This dress has an angled ruffle along the neckline and a mermaid-style skirt that flares out around the knees, creating striking lines in the dress.

My fellow model classmate Ebony Scorpio was selected from the audience as a video winner and she got to model the DANIELLE NUUNA SWEATER and DANIELLE UNISEX JEANS while dancing on stage. Doesn't she look great? And of course, the lovely Ms. Sunrae Suntzu, who was the recent winner of the 2013 Ms. Sophisticated Pageant, was the announcer for the evening. She did a wonderful job leading this fashion show and looked stunning in the DANIELLE NIAMH gown in black.

This was yet again another impressive show produced by Classic w/ Style! See the events page of this blog for my entire photo roll from this fashion show.

     ☆´¨)  xoxo,                                                                                                                                
(.¸.•´ (¸.•` ☆ .:. Laura Reverie ..:☆¨*•.
                                                                  ´☆. 3.16.13

Ms. Sophisticated Pageant - What a Show!

This past Sunday I attended one of the most incredible shows I have seen in Second Life to date - The Ms. Sophisticated 2013 Beauty Pageant produced by Classic w/ Style. This three hour event featured a swimsuit competition, individual talent performances, large group dances, a formal gown competition, interview questions, and a final awards ceremony with fireworks. I was thoroughly impressed by the professional coordination and consistent quality throughout the show. All five of the contestants and all of the model performers were well rehearsed and simply stunning. I hope to share my photo roll from the event; I couldn't stop taking pictures of all the incredible things I saw!

In addition to channeling class and sophistication in every way possible, the event was infused with a spring Easter theme. All those attending received a lovely dress as a gift, and I might add that the large crowd assembled to watch the show looked very nice as well. I myself came in the richly patterned Marline Mini Dress by Asteria Creations. I thought its floral pattern, lovely frills and plume of the skirt suggested the spring weather that I long for, yet the rich golden fabric still has a weightiness appropriate for this seasonal transition month. The finely crafted belt was made for the dress, and I accessorized with the striking En Tournant jewelry set by Lazuri. I purchased this exclusive set including necklace, earrings and bracelet at an on-going event at Creations Park where the designer graciously donates all proceeds to the Michael J. Fox Foundation. I always love to support good causes and find what little ways I can to help make a difference. Listening to the contestants answer their questions, it's apparent that this group of dedicated and talented women also strive to make the world better and be the best versions of themselves that they can possibly be. I'm quite glad that I attended this event; it was entertaining, fashionable, inspiring, and I look forward to more in the future!

My Style:

Dress: Marline Mini Dress by Asteria Creations
Belt: Marline Belt by Asteria Creations
Necklace: En Tournant CFP Exclusive by Lazuri
Earrings: En Tournant CFP Exclusive by Lazuri
Bracelet: En Tournant CFP Exclusive by Lazuri
Shoes: Sense 2 in Champagne by N-core
Hair: Nimue by Maitreya
Eyelashes: BlackDarling by Redgrave

     ☆´¨)  xoxo,                                                                                                                                
(.¸.•´ (¸.•` ☆ .:. Laura Reverie ..:☆¨*•.
                                                                  ´☆. 3.14.13

Honored to be a CWS Styling Event Winner!

On Wednesday I decided to be brave and enter my first styling event. Why not continue pushing myself to try new things and be better? I'm sure glad that I did because not only did I gain valuable styling and stage experience, I also took first place! The other contestants were simply stunning and I look forward to growing and learning from these talented models. The night's styling theme was White Versus Black Swan, and here is my styling description from the event:

Good evening everyone, please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Laura Reverie and this is my debut styling event. Tonight I am performing a couture ballet of fine style and poise.

My tall and slender body is costumed in a flowing black chiffon mini dress with tiers of fabric that accentuate my graceful movements. A diamond-studded hair boa flexes atop my head as I dance, adding more expression to my physical interpretation of a swan. The sweetness and delicacy of my appearance plays against the dark folds of my garment and heavy eye makeup, setting the stage for the dramatic tension that will unfold in my choreography.

The opal, pearl and diamond-studded jewelry float on my limbs as I interpret the sounds of Romance in F through my graceful movements. My toes are pointed in high-arched heels that lace and tie around my ankles like pointe shoes, which make it effortless to pirouette on stage.

My ensemble has been created by Bliss Couture, Chop Zuey, Maitreya and Vanity Hair. It is a glamorous and classical style well suited for a couture rendition of an orchestral ballet and young dancer who wishes to star in the limelight.

I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the University of Classic w/ Style, Anrol, Steve, Janet, Tiffani, Vicky, Lisana, and all present this evening.

,.-*'¨ˆ¨'*·-.¸¸,.-*'¨ˆ¨'*·-.¸¸,.-*'¨ˆ¨'*·-.¸,.-*'¨ˆ¨'*·-.¸

My Style:

Dress: Kathena Flexi Dress in Noir by Bliss Couture

Shoes: Maitreya Gold Foxy in Black by Maitreya

Bracelet and Ring: Romance in F by Chop Zuey

Hair and Accessory: Babette in Noir by Vanity Hair

Eye Makeup: Nina as the Black Swan by Fhang Candy

Eyelashes: Sparkle by Redgrave

Lipstick: Pohutukawa Lip Gel by M.O.C.K

     ☆´¨)  xoxo,                                                                                                                                
(.¸.•´ (¸.•` ☆ .:. Laura Reverie ..:☆¨*•.
                                                                  ´☆. 3.10.13

First-Time Contestant in the Ms. USA Photo Contest

As a new student in the University of Classic w/ Style, I recently entered the Ms. USA photo contest. I am honored to be representing my state and among these beautiful women. Please come see my photo in-world and vote for me, Ms. New York! http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/CWSBeautyPageant/185/251/2002

Someone recently asked me why I chose this photo for the contest, and it's because I think it says a lot about the great melting pot of cultures that we live in today, especially in a place like NYC. I styled this beautiful outfit so that it subtly recalls elements of culturally traditional clothing while having a classic and universal quality. Don't we all bring our cultural heritage with us when we come to this country, and then blend that with our environment and lifestyles of today?

My inspiration grew from the gorgeous N-core Zen heels in Pure Black, which have hollowed-out wooden platforms that resemble the elevated sandals worn by geisha to keep their long patterned kimonos clean. While the hemline of my clothing has moved up to just above my knee, this stunning L'Opera evening dress designed by Tres Beau provides a touch of Asian flare with the elegant chrysanthemum petals on the smooth silk fabric that wraps around my legs. The dress has classic sleek lines that accentuate my height and graceful movements, and I have paired it with the delicate Lily Necklace in Gold and White by PurpleMoon. This beautiful piece of jewelry continues the flower motif and has a wide collar similar to what is worn around the neckline of a kimono. I have complemented this with a gold and diamond ring and tennis bracelet by Lazuri.

Before going off to the opera for the evening, I have pulled my dark hair back into a sleek Nimue ponytail with heavy bangs, styled by Maitreya. I have finished the look with a gold sequence clutch by Septem Essentia, which resembles a rolled scroll in its long and narrow shape. In this incredible ensemble, I'll step out into one of America's greatest cities as a chic and classic woman subtly infused with the essence of cultural heritage.

My Style:

Dress: L'Opera by Tres Beau
Necklace: Lily Necklace in Gold and White by PurpleMoon
Bracelet & Ring: Diamond Tennis Bracelet & Ring by Lazuri
Shoes: Zen in Pure Black by N-core
Bag: Cristal Mesh Gold Clutch by Septem Essentia
Hair: Nimue by Maitreya
Nails: Prim Nails by Sexy Mamas

     ☆´¨)  xoxo,                                                                                                                                
(.¸.•´ (¸.•` ☆ .:. Laura Reverie ..:☆¨*•.
                                                                  ´☆. 3.7.13