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 Posted: Sun Jan 07, 2024 9:09 am
Challenge #1: Auld Lang Design
Designers, for your first challenge, I want you to create a look inspired by
New Years! Feel free to draw inspiration from colour schemes, styles,
patterns, or items that reflect the beginning of a new year. You can even
develop your look around a motif (ex. current events, resolutions, etc),
though be sure not to delve too deep into the abstract. Due date: Jan 14th
BloodAngel95 — Bryce: 60%
S:5 • C:6 • M:7 • D:6
Comments: Overall, this is a cute design, that is subdued and
reasonable — I could walk downtown and stumble upon this very scene.
But common and casual doesn't mean stylish, and I struggle to call this
'fashion'. It's underwhelming, being that there's no discernible colour
scheme, pattern or accent. And then, the description went on forever.
clowniing — Rhiannon: 80%
S:9 • C:10 • M:7 • D:6
Comments: My first criticism is that although I loved the beautifully
written description, it surely could have been amalgamated. My second
criticism, like Clown even pointed out, the 'Chinese New Year' theme is getting a
bit boring. But with those two points now out of the way ... Holy s**t! This is a
gorgeous interpretation of the dragon!! Everything flows so nicely together,
and the colour scheme is on point. Just ... wow! I probably would have given a 10
in style if the headpiece had featured some darker golds to match the bottom.
cynicalsix — Maria: 70%
S:9 • C:8 • M:8 • D:3
Comments: From the moment I saw Cynic's Audition, I knew we had a style
genius on our hands. And going into the first challenge, I had super high (probably
even unfairly high) hopes for what she'd bring to the table ... and she did not
disappoint me in that department!! This is the first entry I've seen where I can
genuinely say that I'd want this look for my avatar. It's fun, spunky, and unique in all
the right places. The colour scheme shouldn't work so well on Maria's fair skin and
bright green eyes, but cynic made it work with the masterfully simple addition of a dark
eyeshadow. I'm seriously impressed. And then there's that 'description', if you can
even call it that. I hope this lacklustre narration doesn't prove to be her Achilles heel.
Detrimentum — Helena: 68%
S:6 • C:6 • M:6 • D:9
Comments: Overall, this works alright, and I prefer Detri's style
with Helena's features over other designs with a similar motif. However,
my beef with wall-to-wall backgrounds strikes again. The lanterns, which are
a beautiful feature, don't get a moment to shine, because there's not
enough contrast between the background and the decor (especially in
the bottom half of the photo). The description was lovely, though.
Dickjoke — Talia: 70%
S:6 • C:7 • M:8 • D:7
Comments: Ah, how refreshing. A new interpretation of the challenge.
Whew. So I guess I'll start with the necessary, albeit long, description. While
the theme wasn't impossible to guess from the image, d**k's written word
truly enhanced the design by sharing some of the cute details. The stylizing
itself is adequate, though not very inspiring. I feel as though some
background decor, or even foreground details might have elevated the look.
Haji Demon — Maritza: 73%
S:6 • C:8 • M:9 • D:6
Comments: I have mixed feelings about Haji's overall style choices, and
the concept they pursued. While it's refreshing to see a Pagan-like
interpretation, I still feel like I'm under the China-Challenge-Curse, due to the
extensive use of red & gold. When I got to the part of the description that
mentioned green in the colour scheme, I legit stopped reading so I could re-
examine the photo. Sure enough, it's there, but hidden under a red filter,
which makes it look swamp coloured. Honestly, I think this could have been a
top design, were it not for the awful red filter, and a more liberal use of green.
HELLPRIEST — Seren: 80%
S:6 • C:8 • M:9 • D:9
Comments: Everything on and around Seren fits the theme and
colour scheme beautifully. The use of decor is inspired, to say the least.
And the description is great, though it could have been abbreviated just
a little. My only real criticisms are about the style, which isn't really my cup
of tea, and the colour scheme, as I don't believe the darker browns and
reds compliment Seren's fair features.
ICLite — Lulu: 73%
S:5 • C:7 • M:8 • D:9
Comments: This outfit confuses me more than I care to admit. It almost
feels like a 50/50 mash-up of two different designs. Lulu's fiery red hair and
pale flushed skin layer fabulously over the background. And while the dress
is cute, and it works as a design concept, the lighter tones just don't
harmonize with Lulu. Her description is fab, though (did she really call her
background 'busy'? Wow ... she must hate backgrounds more than I do).
Mini Black Velvet — Laurel: 85%
S:7 • C:8 • M:9 • D:10
Comments: Honestly, this is an adorable take on New Years, and
the bookworm inside me is living for the idea. The description was
perfectly constructed to tie in some of the details that are missed upon
first glance. My biggest issue with the design, is that while the colour
scheme suits Laurel's features well, it's not as well defined. I couldn't
tell whether the black mass was a skirt or pants, until the description
informed me that it was actually a blanket.
mythological irony — Sumati: 73%
S:6 • C:7 • M:8 • D:8
Comments: The description was a little lengthy, and focused way
more on what she avoided in the outfit, rather than what ended up in the
final product. That being said, I enjoy these colours on Sumati very
much, though I'm not a fan of the dress choice, make-up, or the party hat. Also
(as is my usual beef with wall-to-wall backgrounds), there's so much going on that
it distracts me from the outfit and model.
Neapolitangirl — Ava: 65%
S:5 • C:7 • M:6 • D:8
Comments: Huh. Apparently descriptions aren't necessary, even though it's stated a
few times throughout the guild that they are, in fact, necessary. Isn't it a dead giveaway,
when all of her peers have descriptions (plus 3 previous cycles of Designers' descriptions
available for viewing at any time)? Ugh. Sorry about the tangent — I'm irritable after several
hours of judging. Anyway, her style and creativity stats took a huge hit, as the China-
Challenge-Curse strikes yet again. It should also be mentioned that this particular piece of
art is unique, in the sense that I actually find the scene to be the highlight of the image
rather than poor, face-hidden Ava. Oddly, what Nea showed us best wasn't even 'necessary'.
Princess Warfare — Summer: 70%
S:7 • C:7 • M:6 • D:8
Comments: By no means is it Princess' fault, but at this point, I'm
really sick of dragons, red & gold, and all of China as a whole. The design
is nice, I think she executed her horn-headdress goal elegantly, and the
description is well laid out for my personal tastes. Though, I am
very distracted by the amount of make-up used. It's laid on so thick, that
it looks like Summer's skin is a shade darker. Also, I'm not sold on
this particular colour scheme with Summer's traits. It feels like her traits
are battle the colours for supremacy. But I have to give Princess huge
props for being the first Designer who's use of a background enhanced
their design, rather than retracting from it. Seriously, I'm shocked at her skill.
Queentintin — Charmaine: 53%
S:5 • C:6 • M:7 • D:3 • Extra: +1, -1
Comments: It's not great, though I do give Queen props for being
the first Designer to post (+1). But aside from her base traits, she
only equipped five items, and the lavender colour she used sticks out as it's
not represented elsewhere. Lucky her chosen theme is very clear,
because her description is basically non-existent. Lastly, she forgot to add
her own name into the format (-1).
Self Respect — Elise: 55%
S:10 • C:8 • M:3 • D:2 • Extra: -1
Comments: ******** me! The last entry received, and, of course, it's the
bloody dragon. Ugh. I never want to see another Chinese dragon after today ...
Ugh. Anyway, I had to give Respect the lowest motif score, as the idea just isn't
fresh anymore. However, I will say that I absolutely love how she styled Elise
here. Putting aside the overused colour scheme, and focusing on the garment
itself, I admit that I'm absolutely in love with the androgynous appeal of it. Even
the heavy make-up works great, as it looks much like war paint. However, the
description sucks, and the eyes are changed, so I have to dock a point.
ShiroOkazaki — Aubrie: 73%
S:6 • C:7 • M:7 • D:9
Comments: Not gonna lie — Aubrie is my favourite Model, so I was
looking forward to this entry. And I can sum it up by saying 'close, but no
cigar'. It's ALMOST there ... it's right on the verge of greatness, but there are
just a few details that are off-putting. Like many entries, the background is
working as a camouflage, so we can't define her skirt or legs very well. And
then there's the colour scheme, which looks horribly unbalanced, despite
having colours that work with Aubrie's features. Plus, the pop of blue doesn't
work for me, nor do the leafy greens in the back. How did this happen?! It's as
though Shiro had all the right components, but the wrong instruction guide.
smol bab — Amren: 70%
S:6 • C:9 • M:7 • D:6
Comments: The concept for this one (while still valid), I would have to
consider as the most loose interpretations of all the entries — the reason being
that the Witches New Year is still fairly new (popularity rose in the 80's), and its
practices are nothing like the ancient Samhain rituals. That being said, I still love
the idea, and like how it's represented. I especially love the use of fire here, and
wish Smol had used more fire decor. The description let me down a bit, as all the
elaboration went into defending the concept instead of describing the items, which
would have been helpful. Cuz if we're addressing the elephant in the room, the
filter is so dark, that I'm sure many details are being lost in the cloud of smoke.
Ultrabord — Esther: 75%
S:9 • C:7 • M:9 • D:5
Comments: Right off the bat, Ultra shows their experience in
this competition by giving us a colour palette that looks stunning with
Esther's attributes! The pinky-beige of the dress are gorgeous with
Esther's skintone, while the white/brown/gold pair well with her hair
and face. What would have brought this outfit to a ten would have been
some more glowing/light aspects. As well, the description was a little lacking.
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Posted: Fri Jan 12, 2024 5:09 am
Auld Lang Design
Designers, for your first challenge, I want you to create a look inspired by
New Years! Feel free to draw inspiration from colour schemes, styles,
patterns, or items that reflect the beginning of a new year. You can even
develop your look around a motif (ex. current events, resolutions, etc),
though be sure not to delve too deep into the abstract.
BloodAngel95 — Bryce: 53%
Style:5 • Creativity:5 • Motif:5 • Description:6
Comments: ...meh. When I stop looking at this look, I almost immediately forget about it. The description talks about fireworks and being outside so they can be viewed, but then there were no fireworks. It's a bistro table with coffee/tea cups but it is supposed to be a new years dinner night and almost anything else on the table would make more sense. The confetti feels more birthday party than new years. I think there needed to be some kind of red included - especially on the floor - to connect with the hair.
clowniing — Rhiannon: 80%
Style:8 • Creativity:8 • Motif:8 • Description:8
Comments: I like that it is another different energy for the lunar new year inspo, clowniing made the right call to use the wine red and a more white gold versus bright red or a yellow gold, this color scheme is excellent for Rhiannon. This dragon tail is a lot better than some of the others, much more balanced. While the clouds give the airy benefit that was aimed for, I think I would have preferred the look without them.
cynicalsix — Maria: 63%
Style:7 • Creativity:8 • Motif:8 • Description:2
Comments: Description is far too short. Make up is a bit too dark, but eh. Little too much confetti, it gets distracting from the model - took me a bit to sort out where her arms were and the pose. And I really really love how Maria looks, how she's dressed. I like the color scheme and level of details, I really like the blue night sky background - so refreshing to see something different! - it is just a little messy.
Detrimentum — Helena: 77%
Style:6 • Creativity:7 • Motif:8 • Description:10
Comments: Where HELLPRIEST when for the embodiment of New Year's Dragon for Seren, I really like how Detrimentum went with festive vibe for Helena. Something is a little off with the face, and the background comes off as almost messy. If the dark lower portion was a distinct terrace or some such setting, I think it would fit a lot better. Or if the lanterns on the floor weren't there, maybe that would fix the feeling? I'm not sure. But I do like this take on things.
Dickjoke — Talia: 78%
Style:7 • Creativity:9 • Motif:8 • Description:7
Comments: Gonna be honest, the fact this entry is so different from the others really bumps up the scores. I love that Dickjoke opted to go for a resolution inspiration. I love that the look isn't at night, just every level of it is a great and refreshing choice. It's a little simple though.
Haji Demon — Maritza: 80%
Style:9 • Creativity:8 • Motif:8 • Description:7
Comments: This is a stunning avi. I think it is extremely flattering to Maritza, the framing and texturing of the edges and background is just so lovely. The make up choices are delicate and appropriate. Do I desperately wish this wasn't red and gold and thus didn't get lost among other designs? Yes. But this is beautiful enough that I do forgive it. The description isn't the greatest, or worst. But I love this, want this for my avi haha.
HELLPRIEST — Seren: 88%
Style:8 • Creativity:8 • Motif:9 • Description:10
Comments: This is a fabulous look. While the description could maybe be shorter, this is the kind of description I love. The name of the submission ties into the design and inspiration excellently, the colors are consistent. This is the way I think make up should be used for entries, although I do wish there was something that tied her blue eyes in more. Also think the tail is too small, either needed a larger tail or no tail and some other item to fill the space, but I really love this one.
ICLite — Lulu: 65%
Style:5 • Creativity:7 • Motif:6 • Description:8
Comments: The background is busy, but only because it is so concentrated, but it is the perfect type of busy. It is dynamic and perfect for the challenge. The makeup is a little meh. The light and airy colors don't really compliment Lulu, least not as they are. The top half of the image is dynamic and boldly colored, dark and vibrant and the bottom half is so light and bright and just the opposite. It needs to be better balanced.
Mini Black Velvet — Laurel: 85%
Style:6 • Creativity:9 • Motif:9 • Description:10
Comments: I love this idea. The description is fantastic, the color scheme is excellent, and I love the overall vibe and thought process. The drawback for me is just...some of the layering of items. I think something in the foreground should have been a little lighter to set it apart from the background a bit more. I think the glasses distort the eyes a little too much too. Is the dangling thing from book over the blanket supposed to be a bookmark? It is a little distracting.
mythological irony — Sumati: 78%
Style:8 • Creativity:7 • Motif:9 • Description:7
Comments: I think my biggest drawback on this look is the glare/shine that slashes diagonally across the front, it fades things out just a little too much - loses some detail on the face. But these colors are beautiful on Sumati, it's a fun take on the party countdown, and it is a full submission. Description runs a little long, and I would rather not hear about what has been decided against.
Neapolitangirl — Ava: 58%
Style:5 • Creativity:5 • Motif:5 • Description:8
Comments: This is not a great take on the Chinese year of the dragon that so many have gone with. I love that Ava is dancing and having fun, that she's in movement and that it is a different look than the other submissions thus far. I like the eyeliner/shadow and the description is good. But the white lanterns are too heavy handed in the look. The fan seems too dark, and gloves are too orange compared to the red and gold of the rest of the look. The gold horns come off as..white branches more than gold horns? Maybe because of the big white lanterns. And I do not understand the greenery at the bottom and what it brings to the look/setting the scene/anything.
Princess Warfare — Summer: 55%
Style:6 • Creativity:4 • Motif:6 • Description:6
Comments: The horns/headdress are amazing, I think it is one of the better choices from dragon inspiration and I think it suits the look well. I like the framing of the avatar and background, and I even like Summer sitting on a pile of gold. Feels like a feisty take on things. But I loathe the make up - I get why Princess wanted it/what she was going for, but still - we lose too much of her facial features, and I think the black legs stand out in a kind of negative way.
Queentintin — Charmaine: 53%
Style:5 • Creativity:7 • Motif:5 • Description:4
Comments: Simple, sweet, to the point. Idk what else to really say that hasn't been said already. While I absolutely prefer a shorter description to a longer one, this one was definitely a little to short. I don't want an essay, but I do want to know a little bit more of why this was chosen. There's also something lacking in the background of the avi especially? Mom with her newborn is a very real and practical decision, but the space feels more whimsical than the idea. Something just doesn't match.
Self Respect — Elise: 45%
Style:8 • Creativity:4 • Motif:5 • Description:1
Comments: There's really no excuse for another red and gold Chinese dragon that is the same thought and style as several others. There's nothing new here. Except for practically no description (this description feels like the equivalent of describing the old generic windows screensaver as the sky is blue and the grass is green). Oh, and changing the eyes of the model. War paint make up is a choice, and if the eyes hadn't been changed, I probably would have been more okay with it. Cause the avi itself looks great. But man. Been there, done that, didn't follow the rules all loses points. It is really well balanced, love the choice of dragon tail, color scheme is well matched and is flattering to Elise. But I'm annoyed.
ShiroOkazaki — Aubrie: 65%
Style:6 • Creativity:7 • Motif:5 • Description:8
Comments: This is not my favorite. Initial thought is burlesque, not new years, maybe because it looks like she's alone on a framed stage rather than at a party with other people? The color scheme does compliment Aubrie, but I think there's a little too much dark. Also think the like curtain framing it is just a bit too light. Just makes things feel a bit off and at odds with one another. The more I look I'm also acutely aware of Aubrie's red mouth. But I do like the sparkle between the eyebrows, and it was a good description.
smol bab — Amren: 73%
Style:7 • Creativity:8 • Motif:7 • Description:7
Comments: It does read Samhain, but it is a bit of a stretch to call that new years, but I do appreciate that they went outside the box. I think Amren's face is a little soft for the look? I love that she is with a bonfire and it fits the theme, but because of the night/dark grading over things it makes the fire look like it isn't shining on Amren, which takes me out for a moment. Just makes it hard to really see the details in general. Over all I'm really glad that smol bab ended up a part of the competition, and I hope to be able to see details better next time.
Ultrabord — Esther: 80%
Style:8 • Creativity:7 • Motif:9 • Description:8
Comments: Love a classic new year's party, though it could have been a bit more creative. Ultrabord is a seasoned competitor though, and it shows. Everything compliments Esther well, the description is short, sweet, to the point, though I would have liked a little bit more from it. I agree a little more sparkle of some kind would have been nice.
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Posted: Fri Jan 12, 2024 7:32 am
Challenge #1: Auld Lang Design
Designers, for your first challenge, I want you to create a look inspired by
New Years! Feel free to draw inspiration from colour schemes, styles,
patterns, or items that reflect the beginning of a new year. You can even
develop your look around a motif (ex. current events, resolutions, etc),
though be sure not to delve too deep into the abstract.
BloodAngel95 — Bryce (Total: 27 pts. // 67.5%)
Style:7 • Creativity:7 • Motif:6.5 • Description:6.5
Comments: For me, this reads more date night/anniversary rather than NYE. Needed to see the fireworks more, since they mentioned Bryce was watching them from afar. The gold + black dress is nice, but not anything that excites me. The bow didn't add anything to the look. Not a bad start for Angel.
clowniing — Rhiannon (Total: 30 pts. // 75%)
Style:7.5 • Creativity:7 • Motif:7.5 • Description:8
Comments: They're the 3rd person to do a Lunar New Year concept, which unfortunately, cuts off some points for clown. Wishing the background wasn't as busy as the outfit. Both elements can't be busy at the same time. I want to see the outfit more than the background. The skirt length needed to be longer, but other than that, the rest of the outfit + its colors looks good on Rhiannon.
cynicalsix — Maria (Total: 23 pts. // 57.5%)
Style:6 • Creativity:6 • Motif:7 • Description:4
Comments: I love that their entry screams celebration, which is very fun. But maybe take off some confetti items on the background, so this would've been less cluttered and all over the place. I'm not into the makeup. It takes away the softness that Maria has. The golds on the top and on the bottom of Maria's outfit don't match, IDK if that's on purpose, but I'm not really into it. The shade of gold on the top part of the outfit doesn't really fit Maria, but the bottom golds do. I prefer what's going on from the bottom part, rather than the top. Would've loved to hear their thought and creative process into the making of this outfit. Their description is almost as empty as Queentintin's.
Detrimentum — Helena (Total: 30 pts. // 75%)
Style:6 • Creativity:7 • Motif:8 • Description:9
Comments: Out of everyone that did Lunar New Year as their theme, Detri has the festive feels down to a T! Seeing as Helena's holding a lantern, wishing the lanterns on the floor weren't there. The hanging lanterns are enough as far as decorations. The outfit's fine. The black top isn't blending well with the reds, though. But the look is very festive and fun!
Dickjoke — Talia (Total: 34 pts // 85%)
Style:8 • Creativity:9 • Motif:8 • Description:9
Comments: Wow! Dickjoke's the only one to actually do a resolution concept. Much like our resolutions that we wish to do at every new years, we tend to overlook and not do them, though this wasn't the case for Talia! So plus points for the creativity, and on the motif, considering this is about their resolution. Their concept of doing their resolution was well thought out and executed good. The description is sublime! Without it, I probably wouldn't have guessed this being a new years resolution personified on the first guess. Talia's features fit the gym wear well. Very athletic and chic. The neon + pastel combo is nice to see. If I had to look at negatives here, the shorts are a little too short for my liking, but even then, I don't mind it for Talia. For me, this entry is setting the bar high. Well done!
Haji Demon — Maritza (Total: 28 pts. // 70%)
Style:6.5 • Creativity:7 • Motif:6.5 • Description:8
Comments: I love that each color on their outfit represents a meaning that ties within the challenge. Having Maritza as a goddess of New Year is a nice idea. Haji's description definitely helped them with their entry. I wish they didn't use a filter item, though. I wanted to enjoy the colors unfiltered. They added so much items, and some of them I can't even see. It'd be nice if they edited their entries next time. That aside, this is a beautiful entry.
HELLPRIEST — Seren (Total: 31 pts. // 77.5%)
Style:6.5 • Creativity:8 • Motif:7.5 • Description:9
Comments: The first person to submit their entry, and the first to do a Lunar New Year look, so plus points for that. Style-wise, I love the outfit. The gradience of the colors, and the silhouette of it is reading Chinese-inspired. For the accessories, the heart necklace doesn't belong with the outfit in my opinion. Maybe a different necklace, or no necklace at all would've been nice. The elf ears takes me to more of a fairy, as opposed to a dragon, and the tail should be bigger and more apparent to enhance the dragon image further. The horns do read dragon, though. I love that the moon fits within the circle frame in the background. However, given that this challenge is meant to celebrate a holiday, I wish they would've added more festive elements on the background to give more fun to the look. In terms of description, HELLPRIEST's description is straight to the point, which I'm very into. I love that they're the only one doing theirs in bullets, which I appreciate. So plus points for them on that.
ICLite — Lulu (Total: 28 pts. // 70%)
Style:6.5 • Creativity:8 • Motif:7.5 • Description:6
Comments: I love that they went with the new years kisses trend. Very current. The vibrant fireworks + clock background is really nice to see. Very fitting of the New Years challenge. As for the outfit, the color choices is good. I can see Lulu and the background separately, they're not blending with each other, which I love. However, the outfit itself is heavy. I know that they wanted weight on it, but it reads a little too heavy, for me, especially on the skirt. The corset part of the dress doesn't seem like it fits Lulu, and the fur added more weight to the dress. Given that IC's concept was "new years kisses", having a male companion would've been nice to see with Lulu. But I do like the addition of the kiss mark on Lulu's cheek, which somewhat compensates for the lack of partner. Just a few less weight on the dress, and this would've been close to perfection. Good job, nonetheless.
Mini Black Velvet — Laurel (Total: 34 pts // 85%)
Style:7 • Creativity:9 • Motif:9 • Description:9
Comments: I love that Velvet went in this challenge through the POV of an introverted bookworm! Them having Laurel stay at home is realistic, given the introvert vibes I'm getting with their entry. Style-wise, I'm not giving it a higher score, only because I want more colors to break off the blacks and reds that's all throughout the outfit and give variety to it, color-wise. I got that the fabric on Laurel's bottom is a blanket, but had it been a different color, maybe it would've read better as a blanket. The fireworks background in the distance + windows helped significantly pushed further the concept of Laurel staying at home. The description was the cherry on top, further enhancing the vision. This was a good entry!
mythological irony — Sumati (Total: 24 pts. // 60%)
Style:6 • Creativity:6 • Motif:7 • Description:5
Comments: In terms of style, I love the simplicity of the look. Very chic. That shade of purple with the sparkles is lovely on Sumati. Wishing irony paired the dress with stockings or bare legs instead, and maybe different colored shoes. Nude or same colors as the dress would be nice. The earrings are a nice subtle touch. The party hat is fun and quirky, and with the year written on it, it does read New Year party hat, but given that this is a design competition, maybe having that same hat with matching colors of the dress or no party hat at all would've been better. However, without it, the look would've just read as an evening gown, as opposed to a New Year's Eve party. So with that said, I'm not exactly mad with the hat. The setting does read New Year, with the clock to pulling it in within theme. Wishing irony dug deeper with the description, in terms of the symbolism. It doesn't excite me, but it's not a bad entry.
Neapolitangirl — Ava (Total: 28 pts. // 70%)
Style:7 • Creativity:7 • Motif:7 • Description:7
Comments: The outfit has so much movement and life, and Nea's description made me love the concept behind it even more. It is another Lunar New Year themed entry, but what I like about it is Nea focused more on Ava dancing and having movement. The accessories are cute, but not the most exciting for me. The top and belt isn't the best choice to pair with the skirt, considering the rest of the outfit doesn't have enough whites or oranges to match them, but I do love this take.
Princess Warfare — Summer (Total: 29.5 pts. // 73.75%)
Style:7.5 • Creativity:7 • Motif:8 • Description:7
Comments: The 4th entry with a Lunar New Year theme. What I'm loving about this is the fact that there's so much detail into it, but it's not overwhelming to look at. It's extra, in the best way possible. The ornate horns are definitely the highlight of this outfit. I wasn't sure with the make-up at first, but the more I look at it, the more I love it. The outfit itself is pretty chic. The background is so beautiful. There's so much detail to it, but it doesn't distract from Summer, in fact, it highlights her more. I did have to look up who LongMu is, so it'd be nice if they provided an image on who they were paying homage to, hence I'm taking away points from their score for description. That said, this entry is beautiful.
Queentintin — Charmaine (Total: 21 pts. // 52.5%)
Style:5 • Creativity:6 • Motif:7 • Description:3
Comments: First and foremost, the description is there. Their name, the model, and the title for their outfit is also there. It did take me some time to find where is what. I wish they'd follow the examples on how to create an entry. We have an entire archive, filled with 3 cycles for reference, yet she Queen did... this. I would've gone past the fact that they didn't have labels, if they had more body with their description. I wanted a thought process on how they ended up with the end product, the minor setback(s) that they might've encountered during the making of the outfit, and their thoughts and feelings. This just looks like a description of an item that I can find when I look up old items in Marketplace. Description aside, they did execute what they're going for pretty well. Would've been nice to see more added into the actual look, given that Queen just plopped on a dress for Charmaine. The banners add a festive feel to the look, and the teddy bears and pillows are a nice touch. Very fitting for what they're going for. Comparatively, Queen has the worst description by far out of everyone, but what somewhat saved them is the execution of the look that they're going for. I just want more.
Self Respect — Elise (Total: 26 pts // 65%)
Style:9 • Creativity:6 • Motif:8 • Description:3
Comments: Creativity would've been a 7, had they realized sooner they weren't the only one that did Lunar New Year, and changed their theme considering how many Lunar New Year entries there are before this. And their description lacked the thought and creative process that I want in a description, therefore, their description score is so low, which is unfortunate because out of all the Lunar New Year themed entries, they had the best out of the bunch. It reads dragon, it pays homage to the Chinese culture, and it's very fashion. But the description is similar to Queen's and cynical's; empty.
ShiroOkazaki — Aubrie (Total: 22.5 pts // 56.25%)
Style:6.5 • Creativity:6 • Motif:5 • Description:5
Comments: The outfit reads more burlesque-ish with the feathers, than New Year's Eve party. Given that Shiro created an indoor setting for their look, I wish she chose a different background to show that Aubrie is actually inside a NYE party. As for the outfit, I liked that Shiro mixed two different color schemes together. Both the "Reserved" and "Purified" color schemes look great on Aubrie. But I wish she added in more blue to tie in the accessories more. The dress itself is beautiful, but it doesn't necessarily read NYE. For the description, it would be nice to see how they ended up with the concept for their outfit. And I'm not really sold on Aubrie ready to meet Mr. Right. This entry leaves a lot to be desired, but I look forward to what they do next.
smol bab — Amren (Total: 29.5 pts. // 73.75%)
Style:6.5 • Creativity:9 • Motif:7 • Description:7
Comments: Concept-wise, they chose an unusual New Year celebration to theme their entry on, but I admire that they took the risk. It definitely reads Samhain, and they honored the holiday well. Outfit-wise, I can't seem to evaluate the details of the outfit, because it's dark that I can't see much. But I like what I can see. The red white flowers are just distributed well, the dress itself reads witchy, and the animal skull adds to the witchy. The creativity of it is what really sold me, and I'm excited to see more of this.
Ultrabord — Esther (Total: 28 pts. // 70%)
Style:7 • Creativity:7 • Motif:7 • Description:7
Comments: My Cycle 1 sister! Her experience is definitely showing with this entry. It's a classic choice to go with a NYE party. That gold and white dress is beautiful. Though I am a bit bothered by the length of the skirt of the dress. However, consider what they were going for, I'm giving it a pass, but the bustle that Ultra paired the dress with is stunning. The gold on the hair the jewelry, the gold fabric on the arms, and the champagne was a nice touch to the dress. Maybe more festive decorations would've enhanced the fun that Ultra was going for, given that it is a part to celebrate the end of the year. The colors itself match Esther really well. Would've wanted more body with the description, but they did get their point across. With that said, well done.
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Posted: Sun Jan 21, 2024 12:11 am
Challenge #2: Lisa, It's Your Birthday! Happy Birthday, Lisa!Designers, it's The_Slytherin_Goddess' birthday this week, and she's
demanded that you celebrate her day by paying homage to her old avatars
from 2006 — 2008! It's simple, really. All you have to do is pick one of the six
super stylish outfits she rocked back in the olden days, and re-imagine it for
today's world of Gaia. Though, keep in mind, she's not looking for clones.
Rather, she wants to see how each of you can honour her particular flavour
through colour schemes, motif, and creativity. Due Date: Jan 27thBloodAngel95 — Bryce: 73%
S:6 • C:7 • M:8 • D:8
Comments: I like this outfit quite a bit, actually. The different shades of
purple really do work well together, which has much to do with the gradient of the
background. The motif is clear, albeit predictable, and I feel Angel did their best
regarding the description, though it runs a bit long for my tastes. Also, kudos for
using the mask, ears, and boots to match 1. However, my issues arise when it
comes to putting this particular design on Bryce, as it clashes significantly with
her hair. Additions of red could have been made to try and offset this problem,
but an even smarter idea would have been to pick a different image to work off of.
clowniing — Rhiannon: 80%
S:7 • C:9 • M:6 • D:10
Comments: First, I have to commend Clown on their brilliant description,
as it was honestly a joy to read. But the colours are so light, that Rhiannon's
natural features don't 'stand out', so much as they 'stick out'. And while I
appreciate seeing the description's setting fully realized, the garment and
background appear compounded. Lastly, the motif strays quite a bit from 2's
original hippie theme, as Clown's entire inspiration was taken from the outfit
title (of which, my process for assigning names to outfits is ambiguous at best).
cynicalsix — Maria: 78%
S:7 • C:8 • M:7 • D:9
Comments: This submission has a lot of elements I like, and as a
standalone outfit, it would carry more favour with me. However, without the
checkered hat, I'd have had no idea what this was referencing. I love that
Cynic traded silver for gold accents and expanded upon the red, but the
lower half of Maria desperately needs more white to balance it out. Also, I'd
also appreciate more separation between the background and foreground
here. The description was a big step up from last challenge, though.
Detrimentum — Helena: 70%
S:8 • C:8 • M:6 • D:6
Comments: Once again, we have a beautiful entry, though it's real only
association with 5 is derived from the title. My original inspiration for 5 was to show
off a pink/purple/blue pallet in a fun, quirky kind of way. I DO love how Detri used
the cloud theme to substitute for the wig, and while it's done nicely, I can't help but
wish she'd explored some more colour. The description is okay, though lacking.
Dickjoke — Talia: 75%
S:7 • C:8 • M:8 • D:7
Comments: This is a good interpretation of 4, and I appreciate the liberties d**k
took with the changes. In short, it's a solid entry. Where our differences clearly lie is
with the style, which isn't really my cup of tea, but I can give credit for the imaginative
ways the look was updated. I was pleased to see that d**k chose a better background
this time as well. The description was great, though a bit long for my taste.
Haji Demon — Maritza: 73%
S:7 • C:7 • M:7 • D:8
Comments: I adore the little poem, however, I would have liked to hear more
about the design process. The outfit itself is very cute, but it's not not ringing true to
2. For the umpteenth time, a Designer has based their look on the title, rather than
the image — That outfit was solely named for the amount of green in it! And though
this does sport many shades of green, I wish there had been some black accents to
punch the OG colour scheme through. Also, it needs to be mentioned that the
background appears to look so busy, it makes the actual garb look especially plain.
HELLPRIEST — Seren: 85%
S:8 • C:7 • M:10 • D:9
Comments: This design captures 6's motif most brilliantly. The use of
balloons, confetti, and sparkles to add depth was the perfect way to round
out the image. And kudos for including a headpiece and glasses. Style-wise,
I'm not digging Seren's bottom half. The legs look a bit wonky ... like they're
a size S, but on a M-sized body. Also, I too, have noticed the flood of pastels
lately, so I docked a couple points from creativity. But overall, it's excellent.
ICLite — Lulu: 85%
S:10 • C:8 • M:9 • D:7
Comments: Bravo! Not only is the design gorgeous, but Lite was the first to
show a look built upon 4. Plus, I believe Lite is the first Designer I've seen that's
picked a reference outfit based on the needs of her Model, rather than personally
preferred subject matter. The use of B&W really does compliment Lulu's beautiful
attributes, though most notably Lulu's hair. It was also a very smart choice to use
a background with a lower contrast, so that the garment could be more clearly
visible. My only real criticism is the description, which could have used
more attention in the content and format. Try zhuzhing it up a little.
Mini Black Velvet — Laurel: 75%
S:7 • C:9 • M:5 • D:9
Comments: This is another stylish look that I feel misses the mark
of the challenge. This superstar interpretation has little to do with 1,
which was styled to be Burtonesque-inspired. That being said, kudos to
the glasses and Mini's creative version of the parasol. As well, the
colour scheme is alright, but could have benefited from a little less white.
mythological irony — Sumati: 83%
S:9 • C:7 • M:8 • D:9
Comments: Honestly, it's probably a good thing that I can't remember
the original submission Myth made, because this is a gorgeous design, and
it probably wouldn't have been to her favour if I'd compared it to the first
one. I love the fresh take on 1, keeping the parasol, make-up mask, and
ears. The colours are balanced nicely, and compliment Sumati nicely. As
well, the choice to go without a background is one that I applaud, as it DOES
represent my style. Though I must admit that this style looks simple in a way.
Neapolitangirl — Ava: 80%
S:8 • C:8 • M:6 • D:10
Comments: This was a big step up from last challenge, and I commend
Neo for putting more effort into this entry. It's clear that 5 was her inspiration
with the creative head and leg decor (though I could have done without the
bow). I also really appreciate the nod to my colour scheme that was used in
the background. It was a smart choice to showcase Ava in all white.
Princess Warfare — Summer: 63%
S:7 • C:5 • M:5 • D:8
Comments: Okay, right off the bat, I'm gonna say this entry is eerily
similar to Hell's. They're both portraying 6, same colour scheme, comparable
background decor, related stylizing, and even a synonymous title! I'm sorry
guys, but I simply cannot overlook its resemblance controversies — I'm
docking Princess a point in each criterion. Less important notes: The overall
appeal is nice, the eyebrows look terrible, I like the goggles substitution, the
narrative highlights greatly enhanced the description.
Queentintin — Charmaine: 55%
S:4 • C:11 • M:3 • D:4
Comments: Seriously ... What tf did I just read? ... Huh? I swear
Queen's theme was actually inspired while on vacation in Chibi-Land (which,
fortunately for us, was tentacle-free). Seriously, I'm having a hard time finding
any correlation between 6 and Queen's entry. ... How? Literally nowhere in
her hentai fanfic does it mention a corroborating interpretation of her
reference design ... Why?!! In closing, I think this submission could go down
in PC history as the cringiest entry ever submitted for judging. And for earning
that title, it's only fair to bestow Queen full+ marks in the creativity criterion; I'm
confident when I say that the innovation here likely won't be seen again ...
ShiroOkazaki — Aubrie: 75%
S:5 • C:7 • M:10 • D:8
Comments: Okay, so this interpretation of 6 is simply phenomenal, in my
opinion. Truthfully, my original design was about loud, bright colours, and Shiro's
refined 'rave' idea is an easy transition. The description was great, and would've
been a 10 if it had included a few more points describing the design process. But
however awesome the concept and description, I just don't like the design. Kudos to
the head decor and glasses, but the rest failed in translation. It could have been more
effective with a more discernible colour scheme, and the use of more neon items.
smol bab — Amren: 63%
S:6 • C:7 • M:6 • D:6
Comments: Evidently, I should have added a disclaimer in the challenge
description not to take the outfit titles literally ... Ugh! 2 isn't supposed to be a fairy!
However, I am happy that at the very least, Smol used a green colour scheme with
black accents. The outfit is cute, though perhaps a wee bit busy. There's a lot
happening with both the garb and the background, though I will give props for
excellent colour balance. Though they share the same colour scheme, Amren is
still distinguishable from the background. I wish they'd elaborated on their aesthetic
more in the description, cuz it's not really my style, nor did they sell me on it.
Ultrabord — Esther: 73%
S:7 • C:7 • M:6 • D:10 • Extra: -1
Comments: This is a good design, that I feel slightly strays from 3 a bit.
The motif is clear, and Ultra shows her love for it well, but I don't see how it
ties into the original. Kudos for using a headpiece, glasses, flower and
jacket, but even with the similar pieces, it's still a bit too different. Additionally,
the green in the pants is a weird loner colour, and the background isn't doing
much for Esther. However, I loved Ultra's description, which provided me with
everything I wanted to hear. Point removed for Esther's lips.
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Posted: Sun Jan 21, 2024 7:13 am
Lisa, It's Your Birthday! Happy Birthday, Lisa!
Designers, it's The_Slytherin_Goddess' birthday this week, and she's
demanded that you celebrate her day by paying homage to her old avatars
from 2006 — 2008! It's simple, really. All you have to do is pick one of the six
super stylish outfits she rocked back in the olden days, and re-imagine it for
today's world of Gaia. Though, keep in mind, she's not looking for clones.
Rather, she wants to see how each of you can honour her particular flavour
through colour schemes, motif, and creativity. Due Date: Jan 27th
BloodAngel95 — Bryce: 68%
Style:8 • Creativity:6 • Motif: 7 Description:6
Comments: I think damn near any other design would have been more flattering to Bryce. Any of the designs with green would be nice. This is a good enough look, but it just isn't right for Bryce. I also don't like the mask.
clowniing — Rhiannon: 75%
Style:8 • Creativity:7 • Motif:7 • Description:8
Comments: It's called The Green Fairy. It wears green. There..is like no green in this look. I had NO idea this was supposed to be The Green Fairy without reading the description, which is the first big issue. The description is great though, and aside from the prompt, this avatar is really good. I just think it is too light for Rhiannon.
cynicalsix — Maria: 73%
Style:5 • Creativity:8 • Motif:8 • Description:8
Comments: Mouth is changed and doesn't add anything to the look either, which just like...double pisses me off. But ********, this look is good. It was good otherwise. I think she could and should have just kept the damn mouth she isn't supposed to change.
Detrimentum — Helena: 80%
Style:9 • Creativity:8 • Motif:8 • Description:7
Comments: The description lost a point because they titled the look Pearlescent Symphony. I know it's all about the pearls, but pearlescent is a color scheme on Gaia, and not one they used. It is a color scheme I like, and frankly I think would have been good on this, and now I'm just disappointed haha. But that aside, this is another solid entry. I could tell what it was immediately. I love the idea of just covering this material girl in pearls and jewelry. The spirit of it stays the same, and this is the first that really feels like a reimagining rather than just updated.
Dickjoke — Talia: 98%
Style:10 • Creativity:10 • Motif:10 • Description:9
Comments: This is really just...damn perfect. So many amazing decisions. Description could be better, but really, this is just everything I've wanted to see for this challenge. I especially love that Dickjoke listened to feedback.
Haji Demon — Maritza: 83%
Style:9 • Creativity:7 • Motif:8 • Description:9
Comments: Cudos to making a look that said exactly what it was without a word being spoken. I think the red flower hat might be a little heavy handed? But I do like it. Love the way Haji layered things to extend the dress - though it does do a slightly odd thing with her legs, the balance and fullness of the look. There are so many little things that keep catching my eye, and I just really love it. However, this is truly just inspired by the name, rather than the avatar.
HELLPRIEST — Seren: 80%
Style:8 • Creativity:7 • Motif:9 • Description:8
Comments: I really loved this look. I knew immediately which look they were inspired by, which is great because I can't say that for all the looks. I docked some points in creativity because it felt almost too inspired by the look? Like directly updated for today rather than reimagined. But I think it is balanced well, maybe a little top heavy - the little legs don't help. But this is another strong entry from HELLPRIEST.
ICLite — Lulu: 80%
Style:8 • Creativity:9 • Motif:8 • Description:7
Comments: Something is off with the face. Eyelash make up choice maybe, or the eye patch, I don't know. Something doesn't look right. But I do like this look, I see where the inspiration and update is, and I wish there was a touch of purple. It is a good look, a dynamic and layered look.
Mini Black Velvet — Laurel: 75%
Style:8 • Creativity:7 • Motif:7 • Description:8
Comments: First to actually post their entry, not just reserve a post. Very quick, day one. I think they should have taken some more time. The idea of this is good, and it lives up to the Mistress of Night name. But over all, I feel like it is inspired by the name more than it was by the outfit. I would like to see some purple somewhere in the look, like a purple tinted black would have still worked with the red but had just that one more element of the original.
mythological irony — Sumati: 85%
Style:10 • Creativity:7 • Motif:8 • Description:9
Comments: While I liked the first entry, I'm glad they reverted back to their initial instinct and changed it up. I hope in the next challenge they'll stand by their instincts and not worry about what others will do as much. I love this avatar, it is very much my style, and I am loving their make up choice. This kind of choice shows how you can absolutely have make up without changing the face. Still just looks like Sumati. Where this lost some points for me was similar to HELLPRIEST, I'm not sure it feels reimagined quite as much as updated.
Neapolitangirl — Ava: 68%
Style:7 • Creativity:7 • Motif:6 • Description:7
Comments: While I understand the filter gives it the video vibe, I don't like the lines it puts across things. It just kind of distracts. The hanging things right behind the head are also kind of distracting. Are they hanging or attached to the head? I dunno. But I do like the look overall, and I like the thought behind putting so much white on the head. This is a decent update of Material Girl. Though damn, the wings are..so small.
Princess Warfare — Summer: 70%
Style:8 • Creativity:7 • Motif:7 • Description:6
Comments: Make up and eyebrows are...wrong. This is nicely balanced, colors are flattering. I like the idea of Summer having a bad side, but don't think this actually..fits? IDK. I like this. Don't think I like the description.
Queentintin — Charmaine: 28%
Style:3 • Creativity:5 • Motif:3 • Description:0
Comments: Did I know what she was inspired by just by looking at it? Sure. The hearts give it away. But the hearts (and the wings) are the only connection. And I love those two elements. I like the entire avi actually, but maybe it's because she used every element from a single item so it was designed to go together, plus a couple other neko things. I'm glad Queen has had fun, and that she made her neko fairy slave girl (who aside from the description saying is she is one you can't tell) and that's that. This description gives me nothing I need. I..yeah. It is a cute look, but there was no creativity in creating that, and it is just so so wrong for this challenge. Love ya Queenie, and glad you had fun.
ShiroOkazaki — Aubrie: 77%
Style:5 • Creativity:8 • Motif:9 • Description:9
Comments: I love everything but the look itself. The idea is a great, just the execution is lacking. I think the glasses are the really big drawback for me? They're too big and shapeless I think. I dunno. Great idea, love that, just..meh. This is especially rough judging it after dear Queenie's.
smol bab — Amren: 83%
Style:8 • Creativity:9 • Motif:9 • Description:7
Comments: I love this. While it is clearly strongly guided by the name, I also feel like it is also still tied to the look. The layering of all items, skirt over pants, it all matches nicely. I wish smol hadn't posted every angle and look because the backside shots all look wrong. But this was a strong, satisfying final entry.
Ultrabord — Esther: 75%
Style:7 • Creativity:8 • Motif:7 • Description:8
Comments: I really like the lip color, it feels like lipstick, but it is different. This might be a good place for another element of make up permissions. I like this look a lot, but without the description, I didn't know what it was. I would have liked a couple more witchy elements.
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Posted: Sun Jan 21, 2024 7:54 am
Challenge #2: Lisa, It's Your Birthday! Happy Birthday, Lisa!
Designers, it's The_Slytherin_Goddess' birthday this week, and she's
demanded that you celebrate her day by paying homage to her old avatars
from 2006 — 2008! It's simple, really. All you have to do is pick one of the six
super stylish outfits she rocked back in the olden days, and re-imagine it for
today's world of Gaia. Though, keep in mind, she's not looking for clones.
Rather, she wants to see how each of you can honour her particular flavour
through colour schemes, motif, and creativity.
ShiroOkazaki — Aubrie (Total Score: 28 pts. // 70%)
Style:5 • Creativity:7.5 • Motif:8.5 • Description:7
Comments: The concept was a fun idea. It's different from the original, but it doesn't stray too much from the inspiration. The use of neon is really cool to see with the background, along with what Shiro's going for, but I wish there was more neon to the look. There are so many shades of purple, red and blue that the entirety just looks randomized. Great concept, wished it would've been executed better.
Dickjoke — Talia (Total Score: 38 pts. // 95%)
Style:9 • Creativity:10 • Motif:9 • Description:10
Comments: This is a pretty solid revision of "Kiss Me Kill Me". The elements of the original are still there, but is presented in a different way. Maybe a little too different, but I'm not mad at it. With the concept Dickjoke's going for, and how they executed the look, I'm mesmerized! They did a good job with the Victorian-inspired take on the original look. I appreciate they took our critiques to heart, and showed instant improvement with this entry. The background looks great, and the description helped amp up their entry.
Queentintin — Charmaine (Total Score: 14 pts. // 35%)
Style:3 • Creativity:5 • Motif:5 • Description:1
Comments: Let's start off with positives. I like the Discord kitten + emo vibes I'm getting with the outfit. All the elements suit Charmaine well. "My Curse" was the perfect choice for Charmaine. That said, it is simple. No innovations or personal touches added onto the look. Onto the negatives, WTF is up with the description?! I am confusion... IDK where she got all of that with her rather simple outfit. The connection isn't even gone, it's not there to begin with. I wish her creativity with her description was put into her designs more. And I refuse to believe that she didn't follow proper ways to create a submission, even after having a Mentor helping.
Haji Demon — Maritza (Total Score: 34 pts. // 85%)
Style:8 • Creativity:9 • Motif:10 • Description:7
Comments: The color choices made look great with Maritza. The "Green Fairy" was a good choice for her. I love the red and pink flowers to break off some of the green, which is so nice to look at. The entirety of the outfit screams green fairy, and I love the spring theme to it. Maritza's pose works well with the scenery. My only negative to this is that there's so much flowers and sparkle effects around Maritza that it's a little hard to see her, so it would've been nice to take an item or two so that I can see Maritza better.
Neapolitangirl — Ava (Total Score: 29.5 pts. // 73.75%)
Style:6.5 • Creativity:8 • Motif:7 • Description:8
Comments: This is a cute interpretation of "Material Girl". It does somewhat feel too different from the original look, though. But the Winx club concept is nice to see. The overall vibes gives me Techna, the Fairy of Technology from Winx club with the digital text surrounding Ava. Wishing there would've been more blue added to the outfit, since white is such a hard color to pull off, and all that white washes Ava away. Also, there could've been more accessories to the look, since it would've fit more with the original look and the Winx concept Nea's going for.
clowniing — Rhiannon (Total Score: 33.5 pts. // 83.75%)
Style:7.5 • Creativity:9 • Motif:8 • Description:9
Comments: The overall vibes of their look is so calming. The color choices clown chooses always hit. The mint green, pale yellow and white is so beautiful. The kerchief with the sleeves are cute together. However, the dress with the sleeves don't match. By themselves, are nice, but it could've done a different sleeve. I like the sleeves, but it does weigh Rhiannon, which strays off from the lightness that fairies typically exude. And the wings read more moth than it does butterfly. All in all, a few changes here and there, and this would've been the one entry to beat.
HELLPRIEST — Seren (Total Score: 28 pts. // 70%)
Style:6 • Creativity:7 • Motif:8 • Description:7
Comments: This entry is so fun to look at. The balloons + bubbles background combo really made it joyous, and the description explaining that they're to celebrate Slytherin's birthday is so sweet. All of the elements of the original look are present with their recreation. I admire their attention to details. Though, they could lose the sash, since it's bulking up Seren. Also, the outfit's leaning more towards being a clone to the "My Curse" look. With HELL incorporating all the details of the original and not changing up or adding their personal flair to the look, their entry is reading more as a copy, rather than a revision.
Princess Warfare — Summer (Total Score: 29 pts. // 72.5%)
Style:7 • Creativity:5 • Motif:8 • Description:9
Comments: Though I see similarities between Princess' and HELL's, I'll move past it. But I will still strip off points for creativity because HELL submitted first. As for the look, the pastels suit Summer. The elements are there, but it doesn't read as a copy of the original, which is good. The description definitely helped with pulling the look together, making all the elements of the party items on top and the summoning circle on the bottom make sense. The eyebrows can go, though. But, overall, a solid entry.
Detrimentum — Helena (Total Score: 35 pts. // 87.5%)
Style:9 • Creativity:9 • Motif:9 • Description:8
Comments: Detri going ham with accessories on their take on "Material Girl" is clever. The color scheme looks great on Helena. The background is amazing. The jewelry is what really draws me in with this entry. It doesn't swallow Helen despite how much jewels are on her. Though, they could've kept more elements of the original look into their interpretation, because it does stray off the inspiration a tad bit, but, for me, this is a solid take on "Material Girl".
cynicalsix — Maria (Total Score: 31.5 pts. // 78.75%)
Style:7.5 • Creativity:8 • Motif:8 • Description:8
Comments: I'm loving the fashion references cynical is pulling to their revision of "Kiss Me Kill Me". The changes they made with their revision doesn't stray too far nor is it too different from the original look. Maybe less effects/filters and a different background would've amped up the look better. And remove the shadow and boot the mouth mod, because it's not a good look for Maria. Her sticking out her tongue is not helping with the look. I get the references.
Mini Black Velvet — Laurel (Total Score: 31 pts. // 77.5%)
Style:7.5 • Creativity:9 • Motif:8 • Description:6.5
Comments: The entire aesthetic is giving me Chang'e, from Over The Moon, in B&W + red, ready for the red carpet, and I live for it. The colors look nice on Laurel. The elements of the outfit paying homage to the original design are presented beautifully, and different from the original. Maybe some elements are too different, but it is nice nonetheless. My only gripe with this entry is they didn't explain much as to why Velvet added goddess-like elements to the look. As much as I like it, tell me why you went there.
smol bab — Amren (Total Score: 35 pts. // 87.5%)
Style:9.5 • Creativity:9 • Motif:9 • Description:7.5
Comments: This is such an ethereal take on the "Green Fairy", and I love it so much! I resonate with the vibes of it so much. The melon + tea green with the golds, offblack and white accents is so nice on Amren. I can see all the elements of the original, but their take on it is beautifully presented. This is something I personally I probably would've made had it been me, so I'm very into this entry! If I had to nitpick, maybe a different shoe would've worked better with the dress. But all in all, a really great take on "Green Fairy"
mythological irony — Sumati (Total Score: 24 pts. // 60%)
Style:5 • Creativity:5 • Motif:7 • Description:7
Comments: Off the bat, I am disappointed that she didn't stand up to her first entry. In accordance to the rules, they can technically still change it, but I'm a firm believer in not changing your entry once it's sent. Atleast not completely entirely. Therefore, I'm stripping off points, right out of the gate. Onto the outfit, the elements of the original is present. The moon was a nice nod to the night in "Mistress of the Night", and the line over the face makeup as the mask was witty. But it doesn't excite me in the slightest. I preferred irony's "Witching Hour!" because it had an original touch thrown in it. Their "Mistress of the Night" is a similar case to HELL's where nothing new or different was added into the making of the outfit.
ICLite — Lulu (Total Score: 40 pts. // 100%)
Style:10 • Creativity:10 • Motif:10 • Description:10
Comments: This look is so badass by itself, but the concept behind it is genius. Having "Kiss Me, Kill Me" as their inspiration was already a perfect fit for Lulu, but having the name of the outfit also being their inspiration made it even better. The outfit itself gives me "Kill Bill" + "The Matrix" + dominatrix, and I'm obsessed! And the chessboard as a replacement of the checkered hat? So good! Adding chess pieces to the background, as well as a crown on Lulu's head helped the pieces tie in more with the outfit. Overall, this is a really great entry! I am gagged! It's not often I have no bad things to say to an entry, and this is one of those cases. I'm just that amazed!
BloodAngel95 — Bryce (Total Score: 25 pts. // 62.5%)
Style:5 • Creativity:7 • Motif:6 • Description:7
Comments: By itself, the outfit is pretty. But Angel telling us that this look was inspired by look #1, it doesn't do it for me. Personally, the one iconic piece of the "Mistress of the Night" is the umbrella, and Angel deciding to not incorporate an umbrella is a huge loss on their part. The dress by itself is a nice revision of the original, and the shades of purple does help highlight Bryce more from the background, but the lack of umbrella wasn't the best move. And the witch hat makes the look read more "Witching Hour!" in purple.
Ultrabord — Esther (Total Score: 37 pts. // 92.5%)
Style:10 • Creativity:9 • Motif:9 • Description:9
Comments: A Slytherin witch-themed outfit, in honor of The_Slytherin_Goddess' "Witching Hour!" look? Chef's kiss! The outfit itself is giving non-gender conforming, and I'm in love. The muted colors look great on Esther. All the fashion choices Ultra made this challenge are so correct. The elements of the original look are there, from the items, to the colors, but with how Ultra styled Esther, it doesn't read as being a copy whatsoever. Not gonna lie, I had a hard time seeing a negative on Ultra's entry, maybe except the background and filter, but given their concept, it makes sense, so I'm not mad at it. Overall, I'm at awe with this entry!
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Posted: Mon Feb 05, 2024 6:46 am
Challenge #3: Just the Two of Us
Designers, it's come to our attention that your Models are feeling lonely! And to
remedy this, it'll be your job to set them up with an equipable Valentine's date! You can
go casual, formal, or just plain crazy with your style choices, so long as you can explain
their on-going relationship or meet-cute scenario. Feel free to use men, women,
androgynous peoples, and human hybrids as your Model's date.
ShiroOkazaki — Aubrie (Total Score: 33 pts. // 82.5%)
Style:7 • Creativity:8 • Motif:10 • Description:8
Comments: The description helped so much with the outfit. The storyline makes sense with the look. For the look itself, I like the comfy fit Shiro styled Aubrie in, and the colors look good on her. Would've preferred if Aubrie had an item or two with the same shade of green as their partner's to make them more cohesive together. I know they want Aubrie to stand out more, but it wouldn't hurt to add or replace items with that shade of green their partner has. Would've also loved if Shiro told us how they ended up with their outfit.
Dickjoke — Talia (Total Score: 37 pts. // 92.5%)
Style:9 • Creativity:9 • Motif:10 • Description:9
Comments: I'm in love with the storyline of this, and the execution of the concept they're going for was superb. As for the look, the punk rock derby look fits Talia like a dream. The contrast of styles between her and her partner is so cute to see, and seeing queer love representation is so beautiful to see. If I were to nitpick, maybe add more accessories to push the punk rock feel further would've been nice to see, but otherwise, this is another strong entry from Dickjoke.
Haji Demon — Maritza (Total Score: 35 pts. // 87.5%)
Style:8.5 • Creativity:9 • Motif:8.5 • Description:9
Comments: I'm living for the colors Haji chose for Maritza, and the theme they went for fits her so well. Date night at the beach is really cute to see, and Maritza and her partner looks great together. Onto the negatives, the ray of light reads more sunlight than it does a fluorescent light, and the skirt looks somewhat bulky and busy compared to the lightness of the other items that Maritza has on.
Neapolitangirl — Ava (Total Score: 35 pts. // 87.5%)
Style:8 • Creativity:9 • Motif:8 • Description:10
Comments: I adore the wholesomeness that this design exudes. Both Ava and her partner looks cute. Another queer love, but it's presented adorably. I'm sold on the cohesion between Ava and their partner. Pink and blue always look good together. To top it off, Ava in a boyish fit really suit her. One thing I will say is that I would've preferred if they added a touch more romance to the look. As much as I love the cuteness between the two, I would want to see that chemistry more, but other than that, this is the best entry I've seen Nea submitted so far. I live!
clowniing — Rhiannon (Total Score: 40 pts. // 100%)
Style:10 • Creativity:10 • Motif:10 • Description:10
Comments: I am gagged! Damn! The dark take on Valentine's, and executed this flawlessly?! Wooooow. The entire ensemble is so scenic and emotional. The goth fit on Rhiannon, the colors, the coffin, flowers, candles, and Rhiannon dancing with her lover's skeleton. All of it works wonderfully and harmoniously. Rhiannon's motion + the dress' movement is so good! I could go on and on with all the things I love about this, but to sum it up; 10's, 10's, 10's across the board!
HELLPRIEST — Seren (Total Score: 33 pts. // 82.5%)
Style:7 • Creativity:8 • Motif:8 • Description:10
Comments: I love how animated the entire ensemble feels, with how much movement there is. Seren fits being an angel so much. Their motif came through, and it looks great. That said, given how still Seren is looking compared to her surroundings, I would've preferred it if Seren had more going on in terms of poses and movements to match, and I'm not sure where Seren's wings are, with how much items there are behind her.
Princess Warfare — Summer (Total Score: 35 pts. // 87.5%)
Style:9 • Creativity:8 • Motif:8 • Description:10
Comments: Right off the bat, I love how the entirety of the entry looks. It feels very scenic and alive. I also love how their partner is interacting with their surroundings. The colors that Princess chose were perfect for Summer and with her partner. One gripe I have with this entry is that given how similar both Summer and Elaine's features look, they read more as sisters than they do lovers. But, who says you can't have your sibling as a Valentine? The holiday isn't just for intimate romance, Valentines celebrates all forms of love, including familial love. But considering what they're going for, it is not a helping case for Princess, but a very beautiful entry, nonetheless.
Detrimentum — Helena (Total Score: 38 pts. // 95%)
Style:10 • Creativity:10 • Motif:10 • Description:8
Comments: The title, with the concept is pure genius. The outfit is no exception. The colors work great with Helena, and I love the cohesion with the black and white + gold between Helena and her partner. Once again, queer love representation, which we always love to see. It was a smart move for Detri to add the image of Helena without her companion, given that she's almost covered by her partner. The outfit itself is very much my style, and I'm living! The cherry on top is the dark blue space background to highlight the model more. Overall, this is a great week for Detri.
cynicalsix — Maria (Total Score: 37 pts. // 92.5%)
Style:7 • Creativity:10 • Motif:10 • Description:10
Comments: I'm very into the fact that cynical chose to theme her entry around her IRL love life. The description helped so much explain the ensemble, and it made me appreciate the attention to details that cynical has. I didn't expect Maria to look good in a geeky and somewhat masculine fit, but it works. That said, I would've preferred for Maria to have a different top, as her shirt somewhat reads short dress with how flared it's looking, and maybe a yellow item on the head would've made the yellow more consistent.
Mini Black Velvet — Laurel (Total Score: 27 pts. // 67.5%)
Style:6 • Creativity:7 • Motif:8 • Description:6
Comments: There's so much fruit puns thrown in the description, and I only see one or two fruit item. Maybe the color scheme is fruit-named? IDK. That aside, the outfit itself is pretty cute. I love that yellow on Laurel, but I'm not sure if the entire color scheme work well on her. I would've preferred if Velvet chose the same companion in a different but matching colors. I'm not really into the companion's color 100% matching Laurel's outfit. And the description needs to have a styling journey. Less puns, more in-depth process into the making of their design.
smol bab — Amren (Total Score: 36.5 pts. // 91.25%)
Style:8 • Creativity:8.5 • Motif:10 • Description:10
Comments: Another cute-themed date. I love the concept behind the storyline, and the scenery of it looks good. This color scheme on Amren looks nice on her. The outfit itself is giving very chic date fit, and the shell hairclip with the aquarium setting was witty. I love that Amren's date looks like he's holding her hand, looking at the camera, ready for a selfie. That said, I find the couple somewhat looking too young, and the jacket that Amren has a bit too flashy for a first date? That's personal preference, but regardless, this is another solid entry from smol.
mythological irony — Sumati (Total Score: 32 pts. // 80%)
Style:7.5 • Creativity:7.5 • Motif:8 • Description:9
Comments: The outfit itself has a nice silhouette going on. It's giving oriental, which I like. And with the colors, the overall image Sumati's exuding is folklore demon energy, and I love it. The shadow on the face can go, though. It's not really adding much to the look. And I would've preferred irony to add more romantic touches to the look, given that that's the main challenge. The companion holding flowers for Sumati is nice to see, but I want more romance into it. Maybe a change of setting would've helped.
ICLite — Lulu (Total Score: 32 pts. // 80%)
Style:6.5 • Creativity:8 • Motif:10 • Description:7.5
Comments: I love the proposing theme on this. The setting works great with the concept. Onto Lulu, I'm not really sold on the make-up. Maybe it's the random circles everywhere that's throwing me off? IDK. For the outfit, I like the entirety of it, but I'm not totally sold on the idea of her and her partner having the same dress. I love the dress, but it should be either one of them wearing it, and not both at the same time, because it does look like Lulu's upstaging her lover by wearing the same thing.
BloodAngel95 — Bryce (Total Score: 39 pts. // 97.5%)
Style:9 • Creativity:10 • Motif:10 • Description:10
Comments: I appreciate Angel listening to our feedback and incorporating what we gave them into their entry. The color scheme looks so good with Bryce. The dress being white, and the accessories red and gold was a good choice, and the princess theme translated through well. The movement between Bryce and her prince is perfect. It looks like the prince is about to kiss Bryce's hand. Everything in their entry really hits. I can see Angel's improvement this week, and she definitely came through this time around.
Ultrabord — Esther (Total Score: 40 pts. // 100%)
Style:10 • Creativity:10 • Motif:10 • Description:10
Comments: Another queer love representation! This time, in "damsel in distress + lady knight in shining armor" font. My jaw is on the floor with this entry. This is perfect! Wow! I'm at awe with how Esther looks. The armor doesn't feel to bulky or heavy on her. The gold and white works great with her features, as it should. But the storyline and how the companion looks with Esther is what's really getting me in my good feels. And the beautiful rose garden background to finish off the look? Absolutely yes! It's not often do I have nothing negative to say to an entry, but this is one of the few cases. I'm amazed and impressed!
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Posted: Thu Feb 08, 2024 9:37 am
Challenge #3: Just the Two of Us
Designers, it's come to our attention that your Models are feeling lonely! And to
remedy this, it'll be your job to set them up with an equipable Valentine's date! You can
go casual, formal, or just plain crazy with your style choices, so long as you can explain
their on-going relationship or meet-cute scenario. Feel free to use men, women,
androgynous peoples, and human hybrids as your Model's date. Due Date: Feb 10th
BloodAngel95 — Bryce: 80%
S:7 • C:6 • M:10 • D:9
Comments: Honestly, this is a big step up from Blood's previous entries.
Even without having read the description, I knew she had listened to her
critiques. Her shoutout to historical romance was funny, as I was totally getting
'Rose from Titanic' vibes, while she was thinking of Merida! Haha ... Oh, so close!
While I am happy she incorporated some reds, it wasn't beneficial everywhere.
Anything close to her hair, like the jacket/robe thing, and the hair accessories is
swallowed by the big, red bush. Creativity suffered a little bit, just because I've
seen that background a million times, as well as Bryce's Prince Humphrey.
clowniing — Rhiannon: 88%
S:10 • C:9 • M:8 • D:8
Comments: I may just have a kink for Designers who thoroughly read our
announcements and sticky updates. And in Clown's case, I'd say they really
internalized today's announcements to their benefit. Aesthetically, this is flippin'
gorgeous!! I seriously have no negative comments on the stylizing. The colour
scheme beautifully highlights Rhiannon, it's well balanced, and it's interesting. I
especially love the shadow touches to her face and legs. The only negatives I have
are for the long description and Rhiannon's deadbeat dance partner, Stanley Stoner.
While it's creative, the motif does stray a bit, with Stan being hardly humanoid.
cynicalsix — Maria: 88%
S:7 • C:9 • M:10 • D:9
Comments: This is an interesting take on the challenge that I feel was
executed nicely. This is also a very different style than Cynic usually shows
us, so she gets some props for that (even if I enjoy her usual aesthetic more).
I also think Martha Butts and Maria just simply look good together. The
description was great, but would have benefited from a bit of consolidation. It
wasn't redundant, but it was still long. Regarding the style, I'm not really
buying that Maria's outfit is masculine in any way. It feels neutral-safe, when
she could have gained a lot more favour if she'd gone full-on dyke.
Detrimentum — Helena: 95%
S:10 • C:10 • M:10 • D:8
Comments: Two words: Simply stunning. Like, seriously ... Holy s**t! Helena has
never looked, and likely will never look more beautiful than she does here. The concept
is solid, and communicated brilliantly with the gold particles spread throughout the
image. And it's clear from a glance that these two women share a sexually charged AND
emotionally reciprocal relationship, built upon a deep bond. The way Mavis Lipschitz is
touching Helena almost makes me believe in love again. Colours, phenomenal. Style,
inspiring. Description? ... Well, that's the ONE thing preventing this entry as a sweep.
Especially with how gorgeous this design is, I had been looking forward to learning
about Detri's reasons for going with this idea, the process from where the design began
and ended, and what they connected with so deeply from the masterpiece they gave us.
Dickjoke — Talia: 80%
S:8 • C:7 • M:10 • D:7
Comments: I knew Talia was a raging lesbian!! ... Well, I did! ... I could feel it in
my gut ... But all joking aside, I'm seriously thrilled that d**k chose to give Talia a
lesbian partner. Talia's features tend to lean androgynous, and as we've seen in
the other two entries, she wears 'gender fluidity' well. This entry does have some
sexual ambiguity, but I would have loved seeing Talia in full-on dapper-dyke. A black
suit would have gone a lot further than those hideous blue shorts, and it would
have complimented Blair's dress more. And lastly ... the description was too long.
Haji Demon — Maritza: 80%
S:7 • C:8 • M:10 • D:7
Comments: Overall, the image is cute, realistic, and perhaps even relatable.
I also love how Cornelius Wieners II blends into the background a bit (just like a
man to drag his feet while his woman shops!). While I would have liked a more
cohesive colour scheme, I can also appreciate the realism of the scene because
of its exclusion. I'm glad Haji steered away from red this challenge, because pink
and white are way more on brand for Maritza's dark, gentle features.
HELLPRIEST — Seren: 83%
S:8 • C:7 • M:10 • D:8
Comments: You all know what my biggest complaint is going to be — The
description is nearly twice as long as I'd like it to be! It's a shame, because Hell makes
an awesome case for their inspiration, technique, and style choices, but we have to
sift through a lot of excess info to get it. But I will say that this is a surprisingly fresh
take on a very overused motif, despite the fact that I'd call a handful of the equippable
items a bit pedestrian. The balance here is nice, and I love the way the pink, purple,
and blue accents blend together. Anurla and Seren mirror a beautiful yin-yang.
ICLite — Lulu: 75%
S:8 • C:7 • M:8 • D:7
Comments: Lite is so right about Lulu slaying in red ... I swear every red swatch
in Gaia history would compliment the red in Lulu's hair. And of course, the red, quaffed
hair and pale skin are staples of burlesque, so it was the smartest styling move Lite
could have made here! ... Wait, it's not burlesque? But why? What do you mean it's a
restaurant and not a tavern? Then why is Georgina Wiggins humping her lesbian
lover, Lulu's leg?! Okay, fantastic alliteration skills aside, I did feel a disconnect
between the image after reading the description because it described something
different than what I'd initially seen, and I swear it was a missed opportunity to pursue.
Mini Black Velvet — Laurel: 76%
S:6 • C:8 • M:10 • D:7
Comments: Once again, I find myself a little disappointed with the
description. The length is perfect, but the ratio between story/design process
is off. Yes, I absolutely want to know about Laurel's date with Prudence
Peabody, but it shouldn't exceed 1/4 of the script. But moving on, this is very
cute. The picture Velvet painted is fun, realistic, and scenic. I would have liked
a stronger colour scheme, however. Using as much white as she did on Laurel,
when Prue is devoid of light colours, makes the couple look disjointed. Having
mid/dark tones on Laurel would have improved the entire look, otherwise, she
should've added white petal rain or something, so Prue could join in the light.
mythological irony — Sumati: 75%
S:6 • C:8 • M:9 • D:7
Comments: I can't say that I'm a fan of this entry. Maybe I'm just
ignorant, because I'm too lazy to google 'husk', but this comes across as
disjointed. From the neck up, the demon theme is beautiful and very clear,
but from the torso down. all I'm getting are Bollywood vibes. And on top of
that, Sumati's date, Ingrid Stankey-Smith has a completely different gothic
lolita thing going on. It's basically three ideas smushed into one, and they
aren't even connected by a discernible colour scheme. The second part
of the description was awesome, but her little meet-cute story was ... lame.
Neapolitangirl — Ava: 75%
S:6 • C:9 • M:7 • D:8
Comments: Not enough liberties were taken with the description. The
challenge asked for an explanation of the portrayed relationship, and if Nea
had added another two sentences describing their date, it could have been
a perfect description score. I really do love the colour scheme, though it
could have been balanced a little better. And I like how Ava's date, Gertrude
fits into the scenery, though does come across as a last minute addition.
Princess Warfare — Summer: 85%
S:8 • C:8 • M:8 • D:10
Comments: Last, but not least: I'd say that this entry was well worth the wait,
and I'm glad Princess survived last week's elimination to show it off. This is the first
instance, where I feel as though Princess put Summer's style needs above her own
preferences, which gives me hope that she's beginning to understand her Model's
strengths. The light pastel colours compliment the muted darker colours of the
background superbly. However, Elaine and Summer give off sister vibes more than
anything. It might have been difficult, but more could have been done to showcase
a sexual attraction, such as an armmod that would've allowed for physical touch
between the women. Or easier yet, using a different date altogether.
ShiroOkazaki — Aubrie: 83%
S:7 • C:8 • M:10 • D:8
Comments: This is bloody adorable, and I totally believe this is Aubrie's partner ...
L'il Bobby-Boy Barnes! Despite wearing different colour schemes, they blend beautifully,
with the white and green present in both. That being said, I'm not totally sold on the peach
colour. I feel it's a little abrasive, and would be served better with less of it on the top half,
or at least a paler hue. Also, I wanted a little more design journey from the description.
smol bab — Amren: 80%
S:6 • C:6 • M:10 • D:10
Comments: First, I give much props to the description, as Smol effectively
sold me on her design, despite the fact that I don't particularly love it. Plus, I think
it also conveys her future potential. The outfit may not be great, but her thought
process is sound — She's on the right track. I think my biggest bug with this entry
is the simplicity of it. There are probably 4,920 other backgrounds that would've
worked better, such as an Autumn theme, which can unite the colour schemes
between Amren and Eggbert. The bright blue just doesn't look right to me.
Ultrabord — Esther: 95%
S:9 • C:10 • M:10 • D:9
Comments: Of course, Ultra is going to win favour with me by using
Reggie Roach, the 'non-binary' bridegroom, and talking about defying
gender roles, but this piece is also a beautiful work of art. Despite using
armoured bits of garb, the message and motif speak of vulnerability and an
openness that is inspiring.The two things preventing this from being a
sweep: One, I wish there were more grayscale and/or blush accents to
create a stronger separation from the abundance of white, and secondly, the
description focused a bit too much on the 'what', and not enough on 'why'.
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Posted: Sat Feb 10, 2024 7:13 pm
Challenge #3: Just the Two of Us
BloodAngel95 — Bryce: 81%
Style:7.5 • Creativity:7 • Motif:10 • Description:8
Comments: Easily the best entry from Blood yet, she is listening and improving and I love it. I'm so proud of her. The use of red makes such a positive difference, and while there should be a bit more at the bottom, it isn't...too bad. I would have also liked to see less red in the head piece. I also took points for the background that we've already seen used before.
clowniing — Rhiannon: 97.5%
Style:10 • Creativity:10 • Motif:10 • Description:9
Comments: Description is a little long, but it's also clear what really needs to be read and what doesn't, and I appreciate that. I respect aesthetic flare in it. Other than that - and that's really just splitting hairs - this is perfect. It is absolutely beautiful, creative to have a dead lover, wonderfully balanced. Perfect color palette choice for Rhiannon just...everything. I ******** love it so much.
cynicalsix — Maria: 80%
Style:6 • Creativity:8 • Motif:9 • Description:9
Comments: Description is running a little long, and the background is a bit too busy, and since the goal was to make it fade a bit more it just doesn't really work out. I love that this was inspired by her real relationship, sooooo cute. The idea of drawing from the companion's color scheme is smart, I just think there should be more of that. I don't think enough was drawn over. The hair clip doesn't look right in the face forward shots, it cuts through her hair wrong. Just doesn't work.
Detrimentum — Helena: 95%
Style:10 • Creativity:10 • Motif:10 • Description:8
Comments: I would have liked a little more from the description, a little bit more on why they went this way and things that were chosen. But I absolutely love this. This is nearly flawless. Detrimentum has just set the bar so high for herself moving forward.
Dickjoke — Talia: 72.5%
Style:6 • Creativity:8 • Motif:8 • Description:7
Comments: I'm simply not reading all the description, too much at too small a font and I'm an old lady who just isn't gonna do it. I love having more queer rep (GIVE ME ALL THE QUEERS) and Talia lends herself so well to this kind of look. I love the setting and the lighting. And while I love the idea of like crash meet cute...idk. I don't think this is the right companion. Especially when there's so much detail in why Talia is in her outfit to be able to skate easily, why pick a companion in a full dress? I think Princess used this companion better.
Haji Demon — Maritza: 85%
Style:7 • Creativity:8 • Motif:10 • Description:9
Comments: I love so much of this. Haji did such a great job of piecing the background together, and this may be the best Maritza has ever looked. Idea of a date night in a market? Love it. But I don't love that the companion is hidden behind her, especially with the glare of light in front of them both, it just hides him even more. The glare paired with the bright and lovely colors makes the look read as a daytime look rather than nighttime.
HELLPRIEST — Seren: 73.75%
Style:7 • Creativity:7.5 • Motif:8 • Description:7
Comments: I did not read the entire description. Too much. I love the idea and the vibe, but, it feels familiar. I feel like I've seen it before. I love the play of demon and angel, of forbidden love. But I keep losing details and it feels messy. I don't like the makeup.
ICLite — Lulu: 75%
Style:7 • Creativity:8 • Motif:7 • Description:8
Comments: I do not like the makeup. Love the idea of a proposal (and more lesbians) and the use of stars. Like the red. But I would have liked something to break things up a bit more, kind of just ends of blending too much when it's all this red. It also would have been nice if it was a different companion, or a different color scheme. Feels like she's on her knees for dirty reasons.
Mini Black Velvet — Laurel: 77.5%
Style:8 • Creativity:6 • Motif:9 • Description:8
Comments: My very first initial was meh. But the more I looked, the more I started to like it. I'm not sure why her date is kind of grey (like why she chose this companion when he looks grey compared to her) but I love the dress Laurel was dressed in and how it nods to him. I like the balance of red and framing of the couple with the background and floating hearts. They give me a good cozy feeling. I love the fruit puns.
mythological irony — Sumati: 83.75%
Style:7.5 • Creativity:8 • Motif:9 • Description:9
Comments: Could have done without the shadowing on the face. I appreciate all the work that goes into the layering - especially on the face - but I'd like to see something a little different. A little more simple. I think especially since the companion's face is so plain and soft, it just really emphasizes her own face in a not great way for me. But I do really love the idea. Again though, with the face so dark, it leaves the bottom of Sumati looking almost too light.
Neapolitangirl — Ava: 75%
Style:7 • Creativity:7 • Motif:8 • Description:8
Comments: Lesbians emotion_rainbow emotion_kiss
I like the idea, the flowers, the general vibes. BUT, it...is rough. I don't get couple/romance/date from them. There is nothing to really connect them, something is odd about the lighting. I don't know. This simply doesn't work for me, I'm underwhelmed, even if the ideas are good.
Princess Warfare — Summer: 85%
Style:8 • Creativity:9 • Motif:9 • Description:8
Comments: GIVE ME MORE LESBIANS!!!! Ahem. Love it. I wish there was something to differentiate Summer and her companion a little more, they're a little too similar and could be sisters as easily as lovers. But I am so proud of Princess for listening to us, working with Clot, just.. yeah. Good job Princess.
ShiroOkazaki — Aubrie: 82.5%
Style:8 • Creativity:7 • Motif:9 • Description:9
Comments: This is kind of a mundane take on things, but that isn't a bad thing. It is like a cute and cozy little closed door romance. Gives the fluffy feelings, makes you smile, not a lot of substance. I think it is well composed, every time I look I appreciate more little details and it makes me happier. I would have liked if an item or two for Aubrie had a sharper color/lining that matched the guy a little more.
smol bab — Amren: 82.5%
Style:7 • Creativity:7 • Motif:9 • Description:10
Comments: This is adorable. Another mundane, cute and casual look, it is just...too simple. At the end of the day, just too simple. Amren looks great, I love this look over all, it makes me smile. But for this competition it is just a little too simple and plain.
Ultrabord — Esther: 92.5%
Style:9 • Creativity:10 • Motif:9 • Description:9
Comments: This is one of my favorite looks. It is a perfect use of companion, it is a complete look, everything. Where this lost some points for me is that it was just a little too white. Have to work a bit to see all the details. I wish some other colors were used on Esther to make her stand out a little more against her nonbinary love. Also, before reading the description, this read as more angelic than wedding. But man, it's just splitting hairs.
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Posted: Fri Feb 16, 2024 4:44 pm
Challenge #4: Bohemian Rhapsody
Designers, it's time for boho! ... Or as my dad calls it: 'tolerable hobo-wear'!
That's right — for this challenge, we're delving into the bohemian trend niche; A
popular style of dress that largely appeals to vagrants, artists, and free-spirited
peoples. Explore the earthy and organic textures contained in fabrics like burlap,
hemp, etc. Or perhaps you'd prefer delving into simple arrangements of colourful
floral patterns. It's up to you to make your Model hippie-chic. Due Date: Feb 24th
BloodAngel95 — Bryce: 68%
S:7 • C:5 • M:8 • D:7
Comments: First, I'll give props to Angel for using a background in a way
that I don't loathe. Surprisingly, it pairs well with the motif, and somehow doesn't
swallow Bryce. And I'll give Angel additional kudos for constructing an outfit that
looks quite authentic, though perhaps predictable. In truth, there are many great
individual aspects of this outfit, however as a whole, it seems kinda basic. Angel
seems like a total weirdo (come on ... cowboy hat and boots?), but she's not
letting us see her freak fly. I want to see risks in her designs, and I want the 'why'
answered in her description. I want her to sell us on her particular brand of weird!
clowniing — Rhiannon: 75%
S:6 • C:8 • M:7 • D:9
Comments: I want to commend Clown on their choice to keep the
clothing simple, and explore boho through accessories, even if they're
not perfect. Personally, I would have liked more colour cohesion —
either changing the colour of the headdress, or adding some brown/gold
into the necklaces. And I think I would have traded the shawl in for an
arm pose that had bangles. Also, I think the glasses would have served
better had they been tinted. The biggest detraction from the overall
image is the background, which I find too busy, and barely relevant.
cynicalsix — Maria: 75%
S:8 • C:7 • M:7 • D:8
Comments: This is adorable, and suits Maria well. However, my biggest issue
came from it being turned in late. A week is more than enough time to get something in.
Detrimentum — Helena: 65%
S:6 • C:7 • M:6 • D:7
Comments: I love the way Helena looks from the waist up. The flush of her
face really makes her hair adornments stand out in a beautiful way, and the light
tone of the sleeves really makes her pop against the backdrop. However, her bottom
half struggles to be discernible from the background, as the dark, earthy tones
kinda blend together. For me, both the description and design lack a 'wow' factor.
Dickjoke — Talia: 85%
S:8 • C:8 • M:10 • D:8
Comments: Okay, so I only barely know what Coachella is ... But
whatever — this look is serving it! Without even reading the description, it's
clear that Talia isn't a cultural/economical bohemian as much as she is an
aesthetic one (sustainability be damned!). d**k took a risk by choosing a
subculture of boho that's rarely used in pleasant context, but the description
really solidified their motive. Everything on Talia is perfect, and the teal sash
is *chef's kiss*. What I could have used was more background decor.
Perhaps some general beach clutter would have elevated the design.
Haji Demon — Maritza: 65%
S:5 • C:7 • M:6 • D:8
Comments: I appreciated the candidness in Haji's description, which
benefited their creativity score a bit, but I think it's clear that there was minimal
inspiration for this look. It's not actually a bad look at all, but it's clearly wrong
on Maritza, whose dark features look a little washed out. I love the overlay
addition, but I do feel that it clashes with the background too much.
HELLPRIEST — Seren: 75%
S:6 • C:8 • M:7 • D:9
Comments: This design really has me split, because I literally cannot find
anything mediocre about it - I either love, or hate aspects of it. For the things I love,
we have the concept, the colour scheme, the hat, jewellery detail, and the
silhouette. For the things I hate, there's the background, the basket, and those
hideous glasses. I think a different background would have served better, or at least
some decor, to be less boring. Then, I would have also liked to see some darker
browns incorporated in the clothing, and ... I just can't even with those glasses.
ICLite — Lulu: 70%
S:6 • C:8 • M:7 • D:7
Comments: I get the image in its entirety, and it's a beautiful and simple design.
For me, I wish it were a little more fantastical, rather than realistic, but that being said,
I really enjoy the natural colour scheme that was chosen. The soft colours work for
me, and the little pops of pink are enough to tie in Lulu's vibrant hair colour. In regards
to the dog, I'm not sure it was necessary, but I DO love dogs, so I'm not mad at its
addition. Lastly, I loved what we got from the description, but I could have used more.
mythological irony — Sumati: 70%
S:5 • C:7 • M:8 • D:8
Comments: Honestly, when I think of boho style, this is the kind of look, I
immediately drift towards: cute, retro, fun, and simple. But it's just a little too simple
for my tastes. I really do admire the work Myth put into layering the clothing to get
her desired appeal, but that's kinda where my recognition ends. I'm not a fan of the
colours or make-up on Sumati, not big on the background, or the flower border arch,
and I absolutely despise those shoes. The sitting photo was the far better pose.
Neapolitangirl — Ava: 68%
S:6 • C:6 • M:7 • D:8
Comments: I think this is Nea's best entry to date, and the most
natural Ava has appeared before us. The concept is there, and I feel the
connections when I read the description (though I'd have liked a bit more
reasoning for certain item choices). The less colourful hue scheme was
refreshing, though I would have liked to see more white and pink worked
into the skirt. This is a cute entry; Solid from what Nea's given us in the past.
Princess Warfare — Summer: 65%
S:5 • C:7 • M:5 • D:9
Comments: The description was lovely, and really was the saving grace of this
entry for me. At first glance, the simplicity of the garb didn't inspire me to feel much, but
after reading the description, I took some pity on her creative process. The look isn't
poorly made, to be honest, but it also doesn't scream 'boho' for me. Summer just looks
like a cute blonde, enjoying some nice weather or something. This entry feels too safe.
ShiroOkazaki — Aubrie: 76%
S:6 • C:7 • M:8 • D:10
Comments: The description gave me everything I wanted, even if the
outfit didn't quite match up. The motif was cute and elegantly explained, which
gave a little boost to the score. The hat and guitar are really fun additions,
but nothing beats how much I love those bare toesies! My first big negative is
that the dark clothing makes it hard to see details like the guitar. And the
background is ... posh-looking — a weird juxtaposition for this hippie Model.
smol bab — Amren: 68%
S:5 • C:7 • M:7 • D:8
Comments: The concept is there, the initiative is there, the elements
are there ... and 638 items are piled on there, too; Which, of course,
means it's too much to take in. The entire entry is very busy, and could use
some serious editing — all the way from the chunky layers of attire, to the
description's story, that we could have lived without. Bab's thought process
is clear, and makes sense, so it's a little worrisome that it didn't translate to
the image. Where's the colour scheme? Where's the style? Where's the
Stevie Nicks influence? Bab understood 'free-spirit' and ran with it.
Ultrabord — Esther: 85%
S:9 • C:8 • M:8 • D:9
Comments: This is the first entry I've judged so far that's been memorable
in all the right ways — It's simply stunning!! I even gave Ultra an extra creativity
mark for subverting my expectations! On account of Esther's more punk-rock
aesthetic, I surely thought that Ultra would've leaned into the chunky/dark side
of boho, rather than the natural/light side of it, but they absolutely did not. They
took the harder route, and nailed it. In the future, I'd prefer a better story/
process ratio in the description, and perhaps a limited-angle photo.
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Posted: Fri Feb 16, 2024 8:30 pm
Challenge #4: Bohemian Rhapsody
Designers, it's time for boho! ... Or as my dad calls it: 'tolerable hobo-wear'!
That's right — for this challenge, we're delving into the bohemian trend niche; A
popular style of dress that largely appeals to vagrants, artists, and free-spirited
peoples. Explore the earthy and organic textures contained in fabrics like burlap,
hemp, etc. Or perhaps you'd prefer delving into simple arrangements of colourful
floral patterns. It's up to you to make your Model hippie-chic.
ShiroOkazaki — Aubrie (Total Score: 28 pts. // 70%)
Style:5.5 • Creativity:6.5 • Motif:6 • Description:10
Comments: I was 50/50 about the indoor take on boho chic, but I like how Shiro executed their concept. Aubrie in this blue, is nice. The guitar helped amp up the boho-ness of the look. That being said, the look itself doesn't read 100% boho. I get that it's raining, but it's too bundled up to be boho. The background reads more as winter than it does rainy. As good as it looks, and how beautiful Aubrie is sitting on it, the chair needed to go. It looks somewhat out of place with the background. I would've preferred it if Aubrie was sitting on the window nook.
Dickjoke — Talia (Total Score: 35.5 pts. // 88.75%)
Style:7.5 • Creativity:8 • Motif:10 • Description:10
Comments: Talia's look is something I'd definitely see someone wearing at Coachella circa 2010's. The film filter that Dickjoke added pushed that Instagram influencer vibe further that I'm already getting from Talia. Again, this is something that I was waiting to see at this challenge, and Dickjoke nailed this concept. I would've preferred a different hat, seeing as though the hat that Talia has doesn't look like it's actually on her head. And a different shade of blue on the denim shorts, given how demure the colors of the rest of the outfit looks.
Haji Demon — Maritza (Total Score: 32 pts. // 80%)
Style:7 • Creativity:7 • Motif:8 • Description:10
Comments: That yellow dress with the blue accessories looks gorgeous on Maritza. Though the blue accessories read a tad too bright for my liking. I am getting almost Grecian goddess with the tiara. Maybe a different headscarf would've worked better, since the headscarf somewhat reads "maiden" to me. And also a different colored boots. Same boots, different color, since it's reading a tad too bright compared to the other parts of the outfit. Lack of concept or storyline aside, for someone who's not so familiar with boho, Haji delivered a decent entry.
Neapolitangirl — Ava (Total Score: 35 pts. // 87.5%)
Style:8 • Creativity:8.5 • Motif:10 • Description:8.5
Comments: Choosing to do an outfit inspired by a designer that focuses on boho is a smart move on Nea's part. I see the reference, and I'm into it. I love that Nea chose this hippie bohemiam number on Ava. This is the most conceptual entry I've seen Nea made. The colors look pretty on Ava, and the ensemble itself is very flowy and lovely. Maybe a different glasses would've worked better to amp up the boho look further. I fail to see anything witchy on the entry. I get that Ava wasn't meant to be an actual witch, but I would've preferred to describe her model differently.
clowniing — Rhiannon (Total Score: 32 pts. // 80%)
Style:6 • Creativity:8 • Motif:8 • Description:10
Comments: From the waist up, I'm in love with. Waist down, I'm 50/50. I love the pants, and I love the sarong. But it took me a minute to see the sarong, and the combo of it with the pants doesn't really pair well. The plants on the roof reads more wilting and wet than it does just wet. With how cool toned everything is around Rhiannon, I wished clown chose to do warmer-toned colors to somewhat contrast the background. I do love the colors chosen on Rhiannon, but it would've been nice to see her in warmer colors.
HELLPRIEST — Seren (Total Score: 33 pts. // 82.5%)
Style:8 • Creativity:8 • Motif:8 • Description:9
Comments: I say this in a complimentary tone when I say this looks like someone's stylish aunt glammed up for summer. Something about this entry feels realistic, like I feel like I've seen this person walking around the beach shoreline somewhere. The outfit is reading a bit more "beachy" than it does boho, but boho and beach looks are somewhat synonymous, and the color scheme is a tad too bright for my taste when it comes to boho, but I have seen boho outfits in bright colors, so I'll forgive it. This is the cleanest entry I've seen of HELL, and I'm glad they came through this week.
Princess Warfare — Summer (Total Score: 32 pts. // 80%)
Style:8 • Creativity:8 • Motif:8 • Description:8
Comments: The colors chosen work so beautifully on Summer. You can never go wrong with pink on a blondie. Summer looks great in summertime boho chic. The pink isn't too overwhelming, and the greenery around her compliments the outfit. This is similar to HELL, where it reads more "beach" than it does boho, but like I've said about HELL's, boho and beachy are similar, so I give it a pass. I enjoyed Princess' entry this week.
Detrimentum — Helena (Total Score: 30 pts. // 75%)
Style:6 • Creativity:8 • Motif:6 • Description:10
Comments: It's almost giving cottagecore meets villagecore. Helena looks great, and the color combo is giving me boho the house down boots. Though the colors came through as boho, the actual outfit doesn't really read the same, but I still like it regardless. I'm very into the different textures throughout the outfit. I would've preferred it if Detri chose plants with varying colors to separate the crown from the fauna in the background. And as much as I love the indoor setting, this would've pushed it to the next level, atleast for me, if Helena was on an outside setting.
cynicalsix — Maria (Total Score: 26 pts. // 65%)
Style:5 • Creativity:7 • Motif:6 • Description:8
Comments: This color scheme looks so perfect on Maria. And the challenge is Maria's theme, for sure. My main issue lies with how I can barely see what Maria's wearing. Similar to Ultra's case with the grass patch, this case is much worse because I can't see the bottom half of the model. I do like what I can see on Maria, but I want to see all of it. Boot the grass away. Onto the actual outfit (that I can barely see), from the head up, another case of being beachy than it does boho, and the flower clip, beautiful as it is, didn't make it more boho. That and the dress. Maybe the silhouette of it is not something I've seen as boho chic or bohemian. I'm just overall peeved with how I can't see majority of the outfit...
smol bab — Amren (Total Score: 29 pts. // 72.5%)
Style:8 • Creativity:5 • Motif:10 • Description:6
Comments: This is another look that I expected to see on this challenge, and I like this look on Amren. The amount of accessories is just enough that it doesn't look too much, and the flow and movement of the sleeves and skirt is lovely to see. My issues lie in the description and the background. Though I love a good read, the description felt a tad too long for my liking. Also, given that both smol and Angel used the same background, and the fact that Angel utilized the background better, smol got upstaged and overshadowed in the background department.
mythological irony — Sumati (Total Score: 32 pts. // 80%)
Style:7 • Creativity:6 • Motif:9 • Description:10
Comments: This is what I was expecting of the boho challenge, and myth's entry this week hit for me. Something about the simplicity of the outfit is really effective. The white does somewhat wash out Sumati. Maybe a different colored shawl would've worked better. And, I would've wanted more on the head. Maybe a hat would've made it less empty on the neck up. It is reading a little too simple, maybe a touch of extra would've been nice to add, but other than that, this is a rather effective entry.
ICLite — Lulu (Total Score: 30 pts. // 75%)
Style:7 • Creativity:8 • Motif:6 • Description:9
Comments: Lulu looks calm and serene here. Loved that Lite chose to embrace Lulu's natural features because her model looks great. It does read more May Day than it does boho, but I love Lulu with this outfit. They're the first one to do pants for boho, so plus points for Lite on that. The spring motif came through and it looks nice. As much as I enjoy the headscarf on Lulu, maybe a different head accessory would've helped the look read more boho.
BloodAngel95 — Bryce (Total Score: 36 pts. // 90%)
Style:9 • Creativity:8 • Motif:10 • Description:9
Comments: Another Coachella fit, which I love to see. What I love about this take, is that, similar to HELL's, where I feel like I've seen someone in this look somewhere around a farmer's market, but in a good way. What pushed this look further, for me, is that the entirety of the entry is exactly what I wanted to see on this challenge. Bryce looks really good in this outfit. This is the best entry I've seen of Angel.
Ultrabord — Esther (Total Score: 32 pts. // 80%)
Style:6.5 • Creativity:8 • Motif:7.5 • Description:10
Comments: This entry is really ethereal and fairy-like for a boho challenge, but I'm into it. This gives me very Midsommar if it was a fantasy genre, with the flowers, background and the white dress that Esther has on. Esther looks pretty. My gripes would have to be that bird head skeleton and the mini skeleton head on the head and dress don't fit the lively theme of the entry. And maybe remove that patches of grass and flowers infront of Esther because it is somewhat blocking the focal point of the entry, which is the model and their outfit.
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Posted: Mon Feb 26, 2024 7:07 pm
Challenge #4: Bohemian Rhapsody
Designers, it's time for boho! ... Or as my dad calls it: 'tolerable hobo-wear'!
That's right — for this challenge, we're delving into the bohemian trend niche; A
popular style of dress that largely appeals to vagrants, artists, and free-spirited
peoples. Explore the earthy and organic textures contained in fabrics like burlap,
hemp, etc. Or perhaps you'd prefer delving into simple arrangements of colourful
floral patterns. It's up to you to make your Model hippie-chic.
BloodAngel95 — Bryce: 80%
Style:9 • Creativity:7 • Motif:8 • Description:8
Comments: I'm surprised how many designers struggled with boho and thinking of what to do. Angel pulled it off though. The outfit is pretty stereotypical, which again lost some creativity, but it is a great look. The background is just a little busy for me, and I wish the sunglasses weren't totally blacked out. If we could see a hint of her eyes it would have been so much better.
clowniing — Rhiannon: 75%
Style:8 • Creativity:7 • Motif:7 • Description:8
Comments: I love the over all vibe and the head dress especially immediately says boho to me. And the shawl? Love. BUT the legs are just too light, something about them doesn't work, especially in the sitting pose. But there isn't enough definition. I didn't notice the hat until I read the description, and also didn't even notice the sarong/belt until I read Flame's commentary. The arms also come off at the wrong color. I know they aren't, but it still looks like it, so I would have liked to see a different arm pose or item.
cynicalsix — Maria: 70%
Style:5 • Creativity:8 • Motif:7 • Description:8
Comments: This had good creativity, good over all colors and balance (love to see another van), this is the perfect challenge for Maria and she looks great. What I can see of her. I'm almost irrationally annoyed by the damn grass. I can't understand why cynical would include that. Over all it's a great avatar, the grass adds something to the avatar, but this is a fashion competition and we can't see the fashion. Maria looks like she's squatting down when she's standing because of it too, proportions are all off.
Detrimentum — Helena: 67.5%
Style:6 • Creativity:7 • Motif:8 • Description:6
Comments: When I first saw this, I planned on giving it an 8 style score, but then the more I looked at it the more it just started to fall apart. The general idea and like..the key points of the look are there for boho. Flower crown, perfect shawl item (does anyone know what that item is?), skirt with texture. But it is just too dark and I lose some details. Something about it is lifeless. I expect better from Detri.
Dickjoke — Talia: 90%
Style:9 • Creativity:8 • Motif:9 • Description:10
Comments: Taking Talia to a festival was a fantastic idea. With d**k specifically mentioning Coachella I would have liked to see some kind of body glitter/sparkle/shimmer element somewhere in the look cause that is very much part of the Coachella look. Boho, but make it shine. But that's just nitpicking. It is well balanced and I like the chosen colors. It's simple but not in a terrible way. Again, I think adding something with glitter would have added that one missing element to the look and just blown be away. As it is this is one of the looks I remember without having to look at it again.
Haji Demon — Maritza: 71.25%
Style:7.5 • Creativity:6 • Motif:7 • Description:8
Comments: Maritza is beautiful, but this feels like it is boho adjacent. I don't think both the forehead chain and the hair bandana were needed, one or the other would have suited things just fine. The layering of clothing on the body just loses too many details for me. And the bright orange shoes - again due to how they're colored - just stand out from everything else in the look. The earring or hair clip just looks like a poorly layered item. Idk. This just...exists for me.
HELLPRIEST — Seren: 81.25%
Style:8 • Creativity:7.5 • Motif:7 • Description:10
Comments: This is another entry that really is just fine for me, but it had a bit more oomph than some of the others. It's almost too matchy, and the color scheme is kind of an odd choice for boho, but I really rather like it on Seren. Seen the background/bridge item before this competition which makes it kind of meh. I'd hang out with this auntie Seren on a boho beach day though.
ICLite — Lulu: 76.25%
Style:5.5 • Creativity:9 • Motif:7 • Description:9
Comments: Again. I can't see the outfit very well. But this is the least offensive of those for me, so I'll let it slide. I like the idea of pants and barefeet again, love the inspiration of the maypole and the personal note tying in the blue ribbon. This is an excellent look. But I do not think it belongs on Lulu. Something needed to be done to incorporate the hair cause it just stands out so much, and Lulu just ends up looking like she's playing dress up more than anything. Trying to hide and blend in with a crowd but failing cause she doesn't belong. Love getting to see a doggo though, 10/10 good boy. It seems like there is a red version of that dog though, and even that would have helped anchor Lulu's hair I think.
mythological irony — Sumati: 81.25%
Style:9.5 • Creativity:7 • Motif:8 • Description:8
Comments: This is quintessential boho in my mind, and while I love it, it did lose points in creativity. But this is a strong entry. Could have used an ounce more saturation in the skirt, and while the black shoes balance the hair, I think they're just too dark. A shade off brown would have suited boho better. But this is one of the best entries of the weak, I'm just being picky.
Neapolitangirl — Ava: 70%
Style:7 • Creativity:8 • Motif:7 • Description:6
Comments: I don't think this really suits Ava. I love that Nea wanted to be creative and do something new, but I just think Ava would have benefited from a more classic boho look. Something to give some edge. Again there's something about this look that just isn't boho. Maybe it's the fact the dress is like a ballgown. Maybe it is having nothing on the head, and truly a very simple outfit. The flowers up top and the skirt create a nice frame for Ava's face, but there's nothing to really see. More vibrance and variety of plant would help.
Princess Warfare — Summer: 72.5%
Style:8 • Creativity:6 • Motif:8 • Description:7
Comments: Hi boho, Barbie! I absolutely love that she put a van in the background, it immediately sells the hippie idea to me. And I really love this over all look, like a lot. But it just isn't...really boho. It's like..quasi boho beach barbie. The pinks are great on Summer, she looks stellar, but there needs to be more definition between Summer and the background. Description ran long, but I loved hearing about the crop top cutter, that was a smart idea and use of things.
ShiroOkazaki — Aubrie: 80%
Style:7 • Creativity:6 • Motif:9 • Description:10
Comments: I really like this idea for boho, and over all I like the outfit. The choice to keep her feet bare made me SO HAPPY. Like that little detail over anything is just perfect to me. But much like clown, I think the hands and feet are colored and shaded differently than the base skin which just gives things a disconnect. It's also a little dark for boho. I'd like the chair and background to be different colors than those featured in the outfit to ensure Aubrie stands out.
smol bab — Amren: 72.5%
Style:8 • Creativity:6 • Motif:7 • Description:8
Comments: This is another entry I like less the more I look at it. But it is boho. It is fine. Just...fine. The torso gets lost for me because there is just so much going on, and there isn't enough definition to really appreciate it. The boots stand out a little oddly. Too much on the head, I think I would have lost the shining forehead piece. There appear to be feathers behind the head, I think attached to the headband? But it's hard to tell so they are just kind of distracting. I wish there was a pose in movement, wish Amren had been dancing with a shawl. That would have given more Stevie Nicks.
Ultrabord — Esther: 85%
Style:7.5 • Creativity:9 • Motif:8 • Description:9
Comments: I really like this, and I love that Ultra did something unexpected for Esther. But there is too much s**t blowing around. I feel an allergy attack just looking at it, for the love of god, take one thing out of the air. And I'd like Ultra to just submit one outfit angle, especially since having every angle like this highlights the fact I can't see the complete outfit at any angle. If whatever the flower item at the forefront is was gone, this may have been a perfect entry cause the vibes and colors are all there, the description is so good. But I can't see enough of the outfit.
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Posted: Wed Mar 06, 2024 4:22 am
Challenge #5: Is This a Form of Torture?
Designers, have you ever seen a piece of clothing so ugly you wondered how
anyone could wear it? The Judges were looking through old Gaia items and came
across one that made us wonder that very question. Now we want to see what you
can do with it! Everyone will be building a look around the same item. Meet the 'Pine
Peacoat'. Love it or hate it, we can't wait to see what you do with it!
ShiroOkazaki — Aubrie (Total Score: 26 pts. // 65%)
Style:5 • Creativity:5.5 • Motif:7.5 • Description:8
Comments: This another case of "good idea, so-so execution" for Shiro. The colors they went with matched the peacoat. It would've helped to neutralize the gaudy colors of that coat had they added more Suika colors. The look doesn't scream "Mad Hatter" or Alice in Wonderland-inspired. From the waist down, screamed Christmas more than anything, with the green and red striped socks. Mad Hatter would definitely add more to his hat, so that was a missed opportunity for Shiro. The overall image doesn't scream garden tea party. Tea party with no tea party set-up? Garden party on a place with little plants to see and appreciate under such fog?
Dickjoke — Talia (Total Score: 30 pts. // 75%)
Style:6 • Creativity:7 • Motif:8 • Description:9
Comments: Another school girl concept. Compared to the other designers with similar concept as Dickjoke, this is not the most inventive or creative way of doing this challenge. I am underwhelmed, especially with how well Dickjoke's been doing the past few challenges, and their entry this week isn't at the same or even similar level to match. It's not ugly or bad, by any means. In fact, it is cute, but it's not giving me life. It's a somewhat solid entry, however, I wish Dickjoke would've added more into their entry.
Haji Demon — Maritza (Total Score: 36 pts. // 90%)
Style:8 • Creativity:9 • Motif:9 • Description:10
Comments: With how Haji styled this coat, it doesn't read coat at all. It looks like an army jacket that your grandpa once wore. I mean that in a good way. Very oriental (slighty traumatized, given Challenge #1). The book cover concept they went for is executed well. I see the reference. I liked that Haji didn't match the coat's colors with anything, yet everything somehow fits with it. My gripe on this would be the fact that they mentioned they had a matching that that we can't see. If we can't see it, remove it. Otherwise, this is a cool entry from Haji.
Neapolitangirl — Ava (Total Score: 28 pts. // 70%)
Style:5 • Creativity:5 • Motif:8 • Description:10
Comments: In a nutshell, this entry is giving "Little Women", in a bad way. That movie had bad styling, and I can somewhat say the same to Nea's styling of Ava with this. They did somewhat match the colors, so that's nice. I can't say the same to the overall look. Another Christmas-esque concept, nothing that we haven't seen from other designers, and this isn't on the higher end either. I just feel bad saying negatives, because the description is exquisite. I wish Ava put as much time, creativity and effort to her outfit as she did with her description.
clowniing — Rhiannon (Total Score: 34 pts. // 85%)
Style:8 • Creativity:7 • Motif:9 • Description:10
Comments: A solid performance for clown this week. This is what I was expecting with how the designers approach this challenge. They're the first to do a Christmas concept. Wouldn't say the most creative concept, but clown did it first, and did it with style. I'm impressed with the layering and color-matching of the items to the peacoat. All in all, easy concept, but a cute and nice styling of the coat.
HELLPRIEST — Seren (Total Score: 33.5 pts. // 83.75%)
Style:6.5 • Creativity:8 • Motif:9 • Description:10
Comments: I wasn't on Gaia that much around this era of style to appreciate this look completely. But I like what I see. This type of look is something I'd see a popular Gaian on Rally in the early Gaian days would wear. The look is nostalgic and fun. Adding that Grunny was a good choice because it helped make the coat not feel Christmassy. Maybe more Grunnies would've amped the look more, given that HELL titled their look "Grun(ny)ge".
Princess Warfare — Summer (Total Score: 17 pts. // 42.5%)
Style:3 • Creativity:5 • Motif:9 • Description:0
Comments: Oh my. It's either Princess did not know the deadline, or she forgot to finish, or she gave up midway, or she got held back by an IRL situation. Lots of reasons I can think of as to why she didn't finish, but nothing she can do about it now. I would've loved to see the finished product + description, because I do like what I see so far. Too bad they weren't done. Time management is important in the competition, and time is Princess' saboteur this challenge.
Detrimentum — Helena (Total Score: 35 pts. // 87.5%)
Style:9 • Creativity:6 • Motif:10 • Description:10
Comments: Talk about a transformation! Detri is coming for blood with this look. As they should though, considering their performance last week. Detri altered this peacoat to a babydoll dress. I'm very into it. Love the bows on bows on bows, giving Christmas coquette. This isn't the most inventive concept to go for with the peacoat, but Detri did this predictable concept justice!
smol bab — Amren (Total Score: 32 pts. // 80%)
Style:7 • Creativity:7 • Motif:9 • Description:9
Comments: Simple concept, somewhat solid execution. I like that smol went "watermelon" looking at the peacoat, as opposed to Christmas, like some of their colleagues. The styling is pretty cozy and cute. Color-matching seems pretty solid. It doesn't really read "waiting for my date", rather a girl on the go with her breakfast in hand. But it's a safe, yet stylish look. Nothing to gag over, but it's not terrible by any means.
mythological irony — Sumati (Total Score: 27 pts. // 67.5%)
Style:6.5 • Creativity:6 • Motif:9 • Description:5.5
Comments: I like this look for what it is. Simple yet chic. Not everything has to have a very out there type of concept, so I'm kinda into this. That being said, I personally find to be somewhat lackluster. Maybe it's because the description was lacking that I'm not sold on the look. I do like that they added a collar to make the peacoat pop more, and the colors of the other items do somewhat match. I fail to see the thought process behind the title due to the lack of "why's".
ICLite — Lulu (Total Score: 31 pts. // 77.5%)
Style:7.5 • Creativity:7 • Motif:8 • Description:8.5
Comments: Another rainy day concept. But what I love about this is the child concept of it. I love that Lite chose to add more to the coat, as opposed to concealing it, making the peacoat look like a kid's raincoat. This entry looks fun to look at, and Lulu looks cute playing in the rain. The hair does still stick out like a sore thumb, similar to last entry, but it doesn't totally distract from the cuteness of the look. I would've preferred to lose the star earrings, since it doesn't add to that child look that Lite's going for, and also add more elements in the background. Maybe a playground set-up or friends for Lulu to add more to that kiddy feel.
BloodAngel95 — Bryce (Total Score: 34 pts. // 85%)
Style:8 • Creativity:8 • Motif:9 • Description:9
Comments: This coat + Bryce's hair was a match made in heaven. I know that they were forced with the coat, but come on now. The concept they went for is pretty realistic and relatable. It does give a tad bit Christmas, with the colors of the items they chose, but the execution of this is pretty cute. Once again, Blood snapped with the background. It helped with the storyline of the outfit. Maybe some slight description editing would've amped this entry more, but I'm not totally mad at it. Overall, Bryce looks youthful and cute.
Ultrabord — Esther (Total Score: 33 pts. // 82.5%)
Style:8.5 • Creativity:9 • Motif:9 • Description:6.5
Comments: The first person to do a rainy concept (I believe Ultra's the first to finish their entry with the concept), and I must say this is a pretty solid entry. The colors does scream X-Mas without being X-Mas, but I forgive it given how well-executed the rainwear is made. Using the default arm motions + the gloves gives it a feel that it doesn't read default arm motion. Though the bag doesn't match the outfit, I love that it matches the cute doggo. I don't get the hanging ghosts, though. It is cute, but can someone tell me the purpose for those? Am I missing something?
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Posted: Wed Mar 06, 2024 7:46 pm
Challenge #5: Is This a Form of Torture?
Designers, have you ever seen a piece of clothing so ugly you wondered how
anyone could wear it? The Judges were looking through old Gaia items and came
across one that made us wonder that very question. Now we want to see what you
can do with it! Everyone will be building a look around the same item. Meet the 'Pine
Peacoat'. Love it or hate it, we can't wait to see what you do with it!
BloodAngel95 — Bryce: 77.5%
Style:8 • Creativity:7 • Motif:7 • Description:9
Comments: This is...perfectly fine. That's really all I have. I don't think I like that she kept the rain in the house? Even if I understand it. The white stockings might be a little too white? Even if they balance things. There are a lot of smart things, like the kind of discolored background making Bryce really pop. I think the rose bush is the biggest thing that just..confuses me.
clowniing — Rhiannon: 75%
Style:9 • Creativity:5 • Motif:8 • Description:8
Comments: Clown is right, the color of the jacket screams Christmas, so this isn't the most creative look that a designer could present. But I do really like this Christmas look. I think the skirt chosen flows from the coat nicely, and with the bulky scarf and hat it balances things and doesn't make Rhi look bulky. Makes her look bundled up. Background and frame are excellent, legs are a good choice but since everything else is so bulky and covered up they look a little too small. Sparkles on the cheek are excellent.
Detrimentum — Helena: 65%
Style:8 • Creativity:5 • Motif:7 • Description:6
Comments: I really like this look over all, and so it has a high style mark cause this is a good and fashionable look. I like going for a Christmas inspiration but specifically Cindy Lou Who, though I would have liked more Who. The nod to Max was smart. That's about where the good things end. For the color of the coat - and size of it - Christmas isn't the most creative inspiration. And I'm rather annoyed that so much of the coat was hidden, it not only feels like it kind of defeats the challenge, but just...kind of lazy. Why work with it when you could just cover it? This makes clowniing's entry look better because while also Christmas, the jacket is bold.
Dickjoke — Talia: 82.5%
Style:7 • Creativity:7 • Motif:9 • Description:10
Comments: Over all this is another rather meh look. But when I look closer at it there is more I enjoy. The description is as good as I could ever ask for. Love that d**k thought to work with plaid, and I like the general idea behind the look. It's just..idk. Simple.
Haji Demon — Maritza: 97.5%
Style:9 • Creativity:10 • Motif:10 • Description:10
Comments: ******** YES! This is the s**t I've been waiting to see, especially from Haji. I knew they could do this. Martiza has never looked better. This is just...god. This better than I could have hoped for from this challenge. So dang smart to use the coat like this. I have nothing bad to say about this, other than this is setting a very high standard.
HELLPRIEST — Seren: 85%
Style:7 • Creativity:8 • Motif:10 • Description:9
Comments: Is this the greatest design I've ever seen? No. Not by a long shot even. But this 1000000% delivers on everything that HELLPRIEST was aiming for. I was delighted the moment I saw the Grunny, I was thrown back to good memories of the old days. Nostalgia with this look is off the charts, and I admire the hell out of Hell for making a plan and sticking to it. And it isn't a bad look! I think maybe more grunnies, or less music aspects, or..something might have amped it up. But I'm not mad.
ICLite — Lulu: 85%
Style:8 • Creativity:8 • Motif:9 • Description:9
Comments: I like this look. When I first looked at it, I didn't really care for it. But the longer I look - and especially after reading the description - I really came around on it. Love the idea of treating Lulu like a kid, with the bandaids and keeping things oversized. I'm not sure we needed oversized hat and an umbrella. The earrings could be bigger. And I think the hat should be a different color. But that is just nitpicking.
mythological irony — Sumati: 80%
Style:8 • Creativity:7 • Motif:8 • Description:9
Comments: I really like this design. Not sure I love the make up, but at the same time, I do kind of like it and how the white liner ties in to things. Love the thought process to add to the jacket with the collar so it didn't cover the jacket but just enhanced it. Especially in a challenge where everyone is using the same item, that kind of thought process is very smart. It also ties into the headband. It's a weird little look and I wish the description came up with some kind of reason why? But I don't hate any of this.
Neapolitangirl — Ava: 80%
Style:6 • Creativity:7 • Motif:9 • Description:10
Comments: I love the description, and I think Nea nailed the motif she was going for. I...don't...like this though. Like..at all really. Some of that is personal preference, and some of it is that despite how much she tried to match colors and things it just...meh. The skirt is too dark and long, the scarf and hat are colored in the same sharp way that jacket and skirt aren't which is..weird? But also kind of works? Idk. This is the second week in a row where the submission for Ava just...kind of exists for me.
Princess Warfare — Summer: 40%
Style:4 • Creativity:5 • Motif:7 • Description:0
Comments: This is a great example of why I kind of hate when contestants have in progress posts, and even reserve them. Because I think it is really easy to get up a reserve post, or an in progress post, and just...forget that it isn't finished. And I'm so disappointed, cause I was really impressed with the skills Princess was showing. And I really like the direction this was going! It was posted cause the legs are funny, and they are funny. In another situation maybe even in a positive way. I love that the coat is front and center, love that she was tying in green and red to the hair and the background, doing what she could to incorporate it. I think this had potential.
ShiroOkazaki — Aubrie: 67.5%
Style:5 • Creativity:7 • Motif:7 • Description:8
Comments: Love that the description gave us a why for the odd outfit, but man oh man, I wish Shiro had taken things farther. If you tell me Aubrie is going to a Mad Hatter Wonderland Tea Party, I want to see her going ALL OUT. I want to see a more wild and creative look. It almost matches too much. But at the same time, not at all. I do appreciate that she listened to our feedback and the background doesn't compete.
smol bab — Amren: 95%
Style:9 • Creativity:9 • Motif:10 • Description:10
Comments: This is another entry that is so close to perfect, I'm impressed by smol and so pleased with how Amren looks. The background is a little odd in the foliage. The boots are a little too crisp compared to everything else. But I love that Amren is in a pose with her arms up, that there is movement and thought. Watermelon?? Ingenius.
Ultrabord — Esther: 73%
Style:8 • Creativity:7 • Motif:8 • Description:6
Comments: I like the outfit, and the dog, and the idea of bundling up to go for a fun walk in the rain. Esther looks cute! The bag is a cute little option, the kind of thing I'd expect someone to wear if they wear this coat. The rainboots stand out a little, but it isn't terrible. Description is meh. I'm puzzled by the ghosts.
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Posted: Sat Mar 09, 2024 7:13 am
Challenge #5: Is This a Form of Torture?
Designers, have you ever seen a piece of clothing so ugly you wondered how
anyone could wear it? The Judges were looking through old Gaia items and came
across one that made us wonder that very question. Now we want to see what you
can do with it! Everyone will be building a look around the same item. Meet the 'Pine
Peacoat'. Love it or hate it, we can't wait to see what you do with it! Due Date: Mar 9th
BloodAngel95 — Bryce: 73%
S:6 • C:5 • M:10 • D:8
Comments: This isn't bad, but it's not Bryce's best look, either. I personally feel
as though Angel missed a big opportunity here to go all out, seeing as the bright
red in the Pine Peacoat matches Bryce's hair perfectly. Angel could have gone in so
many other directions to set her entry apart from the mundane settings of the other
Designers, but didn't. The Pine Peacoat, paired with the beanie, headphones,
guitar, and music notes could have set up a killer motif for a music/rave scene.
clowniing — Rhiannon: 83%
S:6 • C:8 • M:10 • D:9
Comments: This is a cohesive design, that I feel Clown executed well.
It's not exactly my aesthetic, but they were clear in their description what their
motive was, and I believe it to be achieved. I really love the background and
frame that was chosen, as well as the dainty, little legs on Rhiannon. Though,
I must admit that I'm not digging the dress, as its bulkiness doesn't do much
for Rhiannon's silhouette. Nor do I think the headband elevates the look.
Detrimentum — Helena: 63%
S:6 • C:5 • M:7 • D:7
Comments: So this is one of only two submissions that failed to achieve a 10 for
motif, and like the other, it's because the Pine Peacoat is barely visible ... Like, at all!
This is by far the worst offender for trying to cover up the hideous jacket. Also, it's a
Christmas theme, and it's been done. Also also, the description is once again lacking
in Detri's thought process (an ongoing critique now). The style isn't horrible, but a
smaller, cuter skirt would have gone a long way in giving Helena a nice silhouette.
Dickjoke — Talia: 70%
S:4 • C:5 • M:9 • D:10
Comments: Ugh ... This is the first score I've given d**k that hasn't been
met with an upward trajectory (70, 75, 80, 85, 70). Maybe because they got the
win last challenge, they phoned it in this week, because this submission is rather
boring, and a bit ugly, to be honest. It comes across as a simple assembly, with
no real colour scheme or strong theme. The nicest thing about this entry is the
setting, and everyone knows I hate backgrounds. The redeeming part of the
entry is obviously the description, which was an informative read.
Haji Demon — Maritza: 90%
S:8 • C:10 • M:10 • D:8
Comments: Dude, how did Haji pull this off?!! Just ... wow! It's so good that I
don't even mind that it's this cycle's 4,023rd dragon theme. This is hands down my
favourite Maritza entry thus far. Seriously, this colour scheme is way outta left field,
and it works majestically! And then paired with the overcoat, that nasty Pine
Peacoat comes across like it's beautiful armour. And on top of all that, our
mandatory equipable is displayed prominently. Jesus Crust, this is gorgeous. My
biggest critiques are that I would have liked the description to explore her style
choices more fully, and I don't like the make-up ... again. Maybe skintone D is
harder to colour-match, or maybe Haji hasn't found Maritza's colour palette yet, but
I am getting really sick of Maritza's face always flushed a deep, wine-red colour.
HELLPRIEST — Seren: 76%
S:6 • C:6 • M:10 • D:9
Comments: Priest was going for grunny vibes and Y2K vibes. And to their
credit, I can absolutely see it ... But I'm also getting electric-circus vibes, alien vibes,
robot DJ vibes and Xmas 2124 vibes — And I honestly can't decide whether that's
good or bad. It's both coherent and all over the place at the same time. Then also, I
don't really love the styling, but I can't help appreciating Priest's guts in using
mostly older Gaian items. They were right: It does, indeed, make me feel nostalgic.
ICLite — Lulu: 80%
S:7 • C:8 • M:10 • D:7
Comments: I really do love entries that forego wall-to-wall backgrounds.
It's so refreshing to be able to concentrate on the garment when there's less
background noise. So this is a really cute entry. And while I'm normally not a
fan of entries that ignore colour scheme, I totally get it in this instance, and
think it was well done. The mismatch of colours look fun and deliberately
placed. I could buy this as Little Lulu, jumping around in Springtime puddles.
However, I'm not sold on the face bandaids, nor am I totally sold on the style of
hat, and the description could have argued these choices, were it not lacking.
mythological irony — Sumati: 80%
S:7 • C:9 • M:8 • D:8
Comments: The Pine Peacoat is barely visible in this entry, which is why
the motif criterion weren't granted a ten in this submission. I should have
liked to see Myth work with the ugly garment, rather than battle it. That being
said, I really do like the overall appeal, including the background, which sets
Sumati in a dream-like, ethereal setting. Where the style loses me is in the
face shadow, and make-up layers. It's an odd choice, given the setting, and
I'd have liked it if Myth had explained those choices in her description.
Neapolitangirl — Ava: 76%
S:5 • C:6 • M:10 • D:10
Comments: What this outfit lacks in style, it very much makes up for it in
creativity, and written word. Every other Designer needs to take a good look
at Neo's description, and give us this. There was a cute anecdote about the
colour confusion, she argues the case for the style being 'childlike' (which
bumped her creativity score), and then she describes the scene for which
Ava poses. I get the scene, and I get the style choices ... I just don't like it.
The spring/fall flowing skirt just doesn't mesh with the Pine Peacoat. And the
lighter green tones in the hat aren't seen anywhere else on her body. I can't
be positive, but I think Nea might be struggling with Ava for her Model.
Princess Warfare — Summer: 40%
S:3 • C:3 • M:10 • D:0
Comments: Disappointing. The only positive note here is that Summer
is dressed in the Pine Peacoat, and it is promptly visible!! And sadly, the
negatives are comprised of everything else: The goofy boots, the clumsy
background decor, the lack of everything, including an outfit title. The points I
gave her for style and creativity are largely just pity points. Such a shame ...
ShiroOkazaki — Aubrie: 83%
S:7 • C:7 • M:10 • D:9
Comments: Shiro's got a hell of a motif here, and awesome
inspiration to draw from, but that hat? ... Sorry, but that's NOT the hat!
Despite introducing the light green colour into the scarf and skirt, the
colour still clashes with the pine peacoat. The stockings are adorable,
and balance out the darker reds and greens nicely, but that hat is awful. It
would've looked much better if the hat/skirt/scarf were made red or white.
smol bab — Amren: 90%
S:7 • C:9 • M:10 • D:10
Comments: Colour me impressed! Smol really stepped up her game this
round, and I think this is the best Amren has looked yet. First off, the
description was perfect (despite a lack of paragraphs), and her motif was
clearly started, and executed wonderfully. The watermelon theme is a fun and
interesting interpretation for the Pine Peacoat, and I'm glad she didn't opt for
different colours, as I think these choices fit Amren's natural features beautifully.
Small style choices I would have made would be to ditch the red fringe skirt, and
swap out the green boots for red, to balance the colours a bit more.
Ultrabord — Esther: 80%
S:8 • C:8 • M:10 • D:6
Comments: I hate doing this to Ultra, but I'm going to go ahead and call this
description lacklustre. The information that IS there isn't bad at all, but it's
incredibly lacking, even compared to Ultra's other entries. However, the motif and
style are really on point here. The colours are very well balanced, and most of
the details fit. The one choice I can't comprehend are the hanging ghosts. Why?
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