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Skinkie-Style :: Ooo La La
By Skinkie | June 2, 2008
Fresh off the boat from two weeks sunning myself by the pool in France I’m in the mood for elegance, romance and a little “je ne sais quoi” *wink*. Courtesy of the Laughing Academy, I have found a gown that fits the bill perfectly, and an equally perfect setting is found at the Second Life representation of the Chateau de Versailles.

Image 1 :: The Vanessa Victorian Gown in Ivory
The Laughing Academy is a shop I came across shortly before my vacation. Whilst I wouldn’t routinely feature historical designs on Fashionista, the Vanessa Victorian Gown is so beautiful, so romantic, I just had to share. The delicate lace around the decollage and hemline, the textures and the prim work of the elegant, slightly flirty bussle are all exquisitely done, amongst the best I’ve seen at capturing the favoured gown shape of the era. And boy, does it make you feel feminine. I almost wanted to curtsey! There are five versions available, two of which I’ve shown here. Four have an ivory base with detailing picked out in soft pastel, the fifth being the “night” version, perfect for any formal evening event.

Image 2 :: The Vanessa Victorian Gown in Ivory
The hair comes from Historical Heroines. All of the wigs sold here are named after well known literary women such as Miss Eyre, Miss Doolittle and Miss Westenra. Adorable details are included with some styles, such as snoods, hats and hair pins. For vintage footwear my first port of call is always Lassitude and Ennui. Their boots are perfect with any gown, but also look great with modern fashions - try teaming them with jeans or a calf-length frock.

Image 3 :: The Vanessa Victorian Gown in Night
I have accessorised the ivory dress with Caliah Lyon’s Chatelaine Shoulder Brooch and Chain, an extremely classy piece of jewellery. I didn’t have time to get a copy myself, but I quite fancy that her newly released Catherine Pearl Cocktail Ring would also be a great addition. Random Calliope’s Ode jewellery is perfect for an evening look, and what’s more, costs you nothing but time, patience, and a sore left-clicking finger - pieces are available only by catching them, hidden inside butterflies that Random releases from time to time across the grid. Join the Ode Butterfly Collectors group for details of releases and to arrange trades to complete your sets (I’m after emerald /navy&emerald /crimson&scarlet pieces). Great fun and well worth the effort to get hold of some of the finest jewellery on the grid.

Image 4 :: The Vanessa Victorian Gown in Night
All set to go to the ball. Now all I need is a gentleman to take me…
:: What I’m Wearing ::
*I took the pictures before I went on vacation, and forgot to note exact details of which skins/eyes/manicures/etc. I used. My apologies. I have listed what I can recall/work out.
Images 1 & 2 ::
Skin:: *
Shape:: my own
Hair:: Historical Heroines - Historical Heroines — Miss Doolittle — Crystal Blonde
Eyelashes:: *
Eyes:: Skin Deep (now The Body Politik) - Skin Deep Real Hazel eyes/Twinkle Eyes
Manicure:: *
Dress:: Laughing Academy - *la* Vanessa (ivory) Victorian Gown, 6 piece set
Shoes:: Lassitude & Ennui - “Lassitude & Ennui” - taupe brocade ankle boots [Not Seen]
Necklace:: Muse - ~Muse~ Chatelaine Shoulder Brooch and Chain (gold)
Earrings:: Muse - ~Muse~ Freshwater Pearl Earrings [NY Gift Box - not for sale]
Bracelet:: *
Ring :: Flirt - ~flirt~ Tiffany Ring in Platinum/Diamond
Images 3 & 4 ::
Skin:: The Abyss - *<TheAbyss> Jadzia_Noxious series
Shape:: my own
Hair:: Historical Heroines - Miss Westenra — Sleek Style — Crystal Blonde
Eyelashes:: *
Eyes:: Random Freebie Box - Emerald (no named creator)
Manicure:: *
Dress:: Laughing Academy - *la* Vanessa (night) Victorian Gown, 6 piece set
Shoes:: Lassitude & Ennui - “Lassitude & Ennui” - City chic - black w/ silver details [Not seen]
Jewellery:: Random Calliope - Ode in Emerald/Emerald & Navy
Seen In World :: Yes
Review Copies :: Laughing Academy, Vanessa Victorian Gowns
Friends List :: No
Topics: Costumes, Dresses, Full Outfits, Gowns, New designer |

Sorry, image one and two are from Symphony skins? Is that an editorial error?
Posted by: Starley on June 9th, 2008 at 7:44 amWhy was my comment approved but no reply given? Can someone please answer or email me regarding this matter?
Posted by: Starley on June 10th, 2008 at 11:00 pmStarley, I have sent you an email, and removed any reference to which skin was used for Images 1&2 as there is some doubt. My apologies for any confusion caused.
Posted by: Skinkie on June 11th, 2008 at 3:10 am