Interview with Aria Absinthe - Winner 2025 Ambassador LUXEParis - Mack Abbot Reporting

As a man, I know nothing about style or fashion but I know a lady who does.

Aria Absinthe was crowned 2025 Ambassador for LUXEParis at a star studded event on the 27th of July and I took a few minutes to discuss her win, her style and her inspirations.

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Mack: So First Off Well done again on your win, how do you feel?

Aria:  It hasn't really sunk in yet for me.  I am still I guess kind of in shock. lol  It's an absolute honour to be able to represent Luxe Paris.

Mack: So what made you want to enter in the first place?

Aria:   I have worked with the ladies of Luxe Paris on a few occasions as I was part of LQ for many years.  I think the team there is amazing.  Avalon Chrome first introduced me into the world of fashion shortly after she won Look of the year. I love what Luxe Paris stands for, and what they bring to the community here.

Mack:  So what extra qualities do you think you'll bring to LUXEParis and the community there?

Aria:   I feel I bring a passion to learn new things, I would love to design clothes some day.  I have an energy, I seem to put my whole heart into anything I decide to do.

Mack:  On the day, why did you pick the outfit you wore that won you the contest?

Aria: I was given Parisian Nights as my theme.  To me I first thought of Montmarte styles and instantly Moulin Rouge feels.  The dress I chose was bold, and seemed like it demanded attention.  A muse , mysterious and confident.  I live by the quote "Those who do not take risks never truly live." And I felt this look embodied that. 

Mack:  It was an excellent choice I must say, so who are your style icons?  Who would you like to have been in a past life?

Aria:  Coco Chanel. to me she is just the epitome of classic design and and elegance.  she was cutting edge to me.

Mack:  And the money would have come in handy too?

Aria:  Oh yes, but would it make you happy? Maybe, who knows for sure?

Mack:  So when it comes to personal fashion statements, what statements do you like to make?

Aria:   I usually with go for something a little more edgy. I love piecing different looks together, to make something brand new, something never seen.

Mack:  Does the look change with the seasons or do you have a go to look all year round?

Aria:  My look does change for the seasons.  I do love the classic holiday looks, Christmas and ballgowns for new years.  I tend to flop between edgy styles and then super classic styles .

Mack:  What's you must have accessory for any outfit?

Aria:  My must have accessory, would have to be the earrings.  The earrings can either dress a look up or down.  The style the size the length of the dangle all can have a major impact on the look of the outfit.  The earrings are also closest to the face, and play an important role in the overall look of the face as well.  If you go bold, or maybe bring out the colour in your eyes.

Mack:  Thank you for that, last question, what do you think is going to be in for the Autumn season?

Aria:   For the autumn season, I feel like more bold jewel tones will be in, more leathers, and wools,  browns, with bold mustards and burnt oranges.  It seems those are the things I have seen and grown to love about autumn.

Mack: Well thank you for your time, enjoy being the 2025 Ambassador for LUXEParis.

Aria:  My pleasure thank you.

FLICKR:  https://www.flickr.com/photos/191543316@N08/

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EROTIQUE BURLESQUE: A BOHEMIAN LIFE- Tuesday July 29th 6pm SLT

 EROTIQUE BURLESQUE: A BOHEMIAN LIFE-those who lived a freewheeling and unfettered lifestyle, making or appreciating music or art, outside the bounds of the convention of the day. Remember Woodstock? All you need is PEACE AND LOVE! Special Encore show Tues, July 29/2025 @ 6:00pm slt.tribute to our Helios. THEME: VIE DE BOHEME 🍸 Dress Code: Semi Formal or in theme 🍸 Bring Your Friends for a night of sexy fun! 🍸 Doors Open Early! Don't miss out if the sim gets full!

Hello our dear VIP's encore show will be a tribute to our beloved Helios. He is now with the angels and in God's arms. Helios will be greatly missed. His humor and style will never be forgotten.

Please come and enjoy the show in his name. Tues July 29/2025 at 6:00pm slt.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/French%20Soleil/117/135/28

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Eric Steffensen: Connecting with People thru Music in a Virtual World – Josh (Thomas1 Bellic) reporting

 

Soooo…I was attending what is fast becoming THE best event where you can hear up and coming musical talent in the SL Music Scene.  The monthly SL Enquirer Singer Songwriter Open Mic competition, right outside the SL Enquirer Offices: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Akamai/220/32/22.  The most recent winner, Eric Steffensen, beat out some stiff competition to take the award for the month of June, 2025.  Eric wowed the judges with his musical interpretation and creative skills as a performer.  I caught up with Eric after the contest, and he graciously agreed to chat with me about his journey as a musician.

Josh (Thomas1 Bellic) (JB):     First off, let me congratulate you on your outstanding performance in the SL Enquirer Open Mike Songwriters Contest.  And thanks for agreeing to talk to our SL Enquirer readers about your experience.  So tell me, Eric, how did you get started as a musician, and when?

Ericsteffensten.mistwalker (EM):     I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t making music. My family didn’t just sing together—we harmonized like it was a team sport. I started guitar in college and was mentored by a close friend who wrote songs. In the late 90s I figured out how to record myself and started posting my music to mp3.com. Naturally, I found my way into SL’s music scene. It feels like home.  It’s a space where people truly show up for the music and for each other, and that kind of connection still amazes me.

JB:     What is your favorite Musical Genre?

EM:     Haha, this is a tough question because I perform music from a lot of genres. I just love music and don’t try to put myself in a box. But if my iPhone could talk, it would probably say, “Are you going through an emotional 90s alt-rock phase again?” The truth is, those songs still speak to me, and I love reimagining them for today’s audience.

JB:     How did you come to select your pieces for the Open Mic Songwriters competition?

EM:     I was doing my best to fit the chosen theme, which was LGBT pride. I had recently learned "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" by Queen and it instantly felt like the right fit. Freddie Mercury embodied both queer pride and rock brilliance, so it felt like the perfect tribute.

JB:     Do you perform in RL as well?

EM:     Yes, but not nearly as often as in SL. I’ve tried to start a few bands over the years. My brothers and I recently started one called Steffenwulf. We’re calling it Yacht Rock with fangs. It's still in the early stages, so check in with me in about a year.

JB:     What has been the most memorable performance of your career so far?

EM:     There have been a lot. I’ve been to several RL jams with SL performers and loved jamming in person with so many folks from our community. Played a few house concerts that were amazing. But the most memorable was a Facebook Live show during COVID. It was raw, honest, and strangely intimate—like we were all clinging to the music together.

JB:     Who were your musical idols, and have been the greatest influencers of your musical style?

EM:     So many. My musical DNA is a mix of Smashing Pumpkins, R.E.M., Weezer, Foo Fighters, Eric Clapton, James Taylor, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and my mentors—friends about 20 years older than me. If Cat Stevens and Stephen Page from Barenaked Ladies had a musical baby raised on 90s alt-rock… yeah, that’s probably me.

JB:     What has been your biggest challenge breaking into the Music Industry?

EM:     There’s a lot of competition out there, and most people default to something familiar. Helping them take a chance on something new—from a guy singing his heart out on an avatar stage—that’s the challenge. But when someone connects with a song I wrote? That’s the win I’m always chasing.

JB:     What advice would you give to any aspiring musicians out there today?

EM:     Never stop challenging yourself. There are so many ways to grow—singing, songwriting, performing, connecting, branding. There’s always something to work on. Also—tune your guitar before a show. Seriously. Learned that one live in front of 30 avatars.

JB:     So Eric.  Could you share with us some of the more interesting venues you have played recently?

EM:     One of the most interesting shows I’ve played recently was at the opening of an exhibit called Sea Swept at the HeArt & Soul Gallery. It features photography by SL artist Joanna Kitten and runs through July and August 2025. Her work captures soft coastal scenes and quiet, reflective moments—like postcards from dreams you almost remember. I performed surrounded by her images, and something about the space made it feel like the songs were echoing just a little more deeply.

Visit the Gallery here:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Durdane/204/205/78

And then there’s Etta’s—a welcoming, open-air venue were I play every other Friday. The crowd is relaxed but always dialed in, and I never know if the set will lean acoustic or turn into a punk singalong. That kind of unpredictability is part of the fun.

Check Etta’s out here:  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Playa%20Brava/22/227/27

JB:     Where else could our SL readers go who want to hear you live and in concert?

EM:     Look for my name in the SL event listings. You can also catch me at one of my regular shows—dad jokes included—playing everything from Cat Stevens to Tears for Fears:

·         Etta's every other Friday at 5pm

·         Guthries Folk Club every other Saturday at 12pm

·         The Merry Prankster every other Sunday at 6pm

·         Cuddles Live Music Beach every Wednesday at 5pm

·         Villa Lobos, second Tuesday of every month at 9pm

JB:     Do you have any Social Media Sites out there where readers can learn more about you?

EM:     Yes I do, as a matter of fact.  Please direct yoru attention to the links below:

·         https://www.youtube.com/ericsteffensen

·         https://www.facebook.com/ericsteffensensingersongwriter

JB:     Is there anything else you would like to share with our SL Enquirer Readers.

EM:     Honestly, I just feel lucky. I get to show up, crack some weird jokes, play music I love, and somehow… people keep coming back. I don’t know if that says more about you or me, but I’m grateful either way. So if you ever need a place to laugh, listen, or just hang out with good music—you know where to find me.

So there you have it, folks.  Eric brings his unique skills as a musician to a venue near you.  Sheck out his schedule and be sure to catch this man’s performance.  You’ll be glad you did.  And when you do, tell ‘em Josh sent ya.

Be there!  Aloha!

v/r  JB

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LUXE Paris LOOK of the YEAR THE BRUNCH OF THE JUDGES

The LUXE Paris fashion house held its traditional LOOK of the YEAR Jury Brunch on the first Sunday of July. At the main table were the finalists vying for the position of LUXE Paris ambassador and the generous prize of L$50,000.

Americans Aria Absinthe, Athena Firehart, Kitty Dark Rage, Mike Moretto, and Varda Sedia-Havoc; Spaniards Claudia Fosse and Larida Andel; Canadian Jenny Starling; Australian Laycie Pearl; and Italian Lorez Aichi all looked very elegant as they took the stage to give short speeches, demonstrating their credentials as ambassadors.

A photo report by Ale Chun

And yes, you're not dreaming! For the second year in a row, the contest was also open to men, and two of them, Lorez and Mike, made it to the finals, a novelty that adds excitement to the contest, which is celebrating its tenth anniversary.

American finalist Sylver Vendetta couldn't attend the brunch, as her real-life house flooded half an hour before the event! However, with her feet in the water and her heart pounding, she managed to send her speech to the judges with the help of a friend, earning a warm ovation.

10th anniversary of the competition

"For a decade now, the LUXE Paris LOOK of the YEAR competition has celebrated the joy of fashion and chosen our ambassadors," exclaimed Mika Palmyra, co-founder of the LUXE Paris brand, established in Second Life since 2012.

"Over the course of this decade, a true dynasty of ambassadors has been created, extraordinary ambassadors who never leave us, even once their mission is accomplished," added the other co-founder, Parisian Skytower.

In fact, three LOOK of the YEAR winners were present at the brunch. Naar Absinthe, the 2017 winner, has been a member of the LOOK of the YEAR jury ever since, while her modeling academy, In-Nova, mentors the finalists. Avalon Chrome, LOOK of the YEAR 2020, has also been a jury member and mentor since her selection, in addition to being part of the LUXE Paris design team.

And, of course, VanessaJane, current LUXE Paris ambassador, who also became designer for LUXE Paris, was also there as a judge and a mentor.

A diverse and experienced jury

"The jury is also part of the larger LUXE Paris family, and most of its members are LOOK of the YEAR competition veterans," continued Mika Palmyra. 

"They know the LUXE Paris spirit perfectly."

"And they've never made a mistake in choosing our ambassador!"

The LOOK of the YEAR jury is also very diverse, ensuring a rigorous and thorough review of the candidates. In addition to the three LOOK of the YEAR winners and the LUXE Paris founders, it includes Zuri Rayna, the competition's official jeweler, represented that day by the director of her blog, Arual; Mila Blauvelt, designer of My Bags; Ponchituti Boucher, Lali Arbizu, and Diana Balhaus of One On One, the agency that produces the LOOK of the YEAR finals and oversees the mentoring; Hyaecinte, communications director of LUXE Paris and a certified real-life stylist, who was represented at the Brunch by TwinkieBean, first runner-up in LOOK of the YEAR 2024; Adonis Lubomir, founder of the prestigious Swank Event and owner of the renowned groups Womenstuff and Menstuff; Chemak Kamala and Lanai Jarrico, respectively editors of SL Confidencial magazine and The SL Enquirer news website; Mitsuko Kytori, of the beautiful Hayabusa gardens; Blueyes Bonetto, owner of the Latin Quarters music sim, the site of the grand finale; and Javi Gearz, a fashion videographer.

Much more than a beauty contest

This wide variety of judges led to a vibrant Q&A period, but all the finalists performed admirably. In short, the traditional Judges' Brunch achieved its goal: to highlight the finalists' personalities and ambassadorial qualities. The quality of their participation in classes and rehearsals will also be taken into account for the finals.

It's worth remembering that LUXE Paris is looking for a worthy representative of its brand, and therefore the LOOK of the YEAR competition is not a simple beauty pageant.

That said, the welcoming, family-like spirit of the fashion house and its team of mentors will allow all finalists to experience an extraordinary, rewarding, and enriching adventure,

regardless of the final result.

"You will see that this competition is unique," Parisian emphasized to the finalists. 

"You will discover a strong family spirit, as well as all the tools necessary to stand out."

We remind you that the grand finale, open to the public, will take place on Sunday, July 27th at 9:00 a.m. SLT. Your limousine will be waiting for you at the LUXE Paris flagship store, located at Bao/56/72/26.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELASE: Black Purrl Fiji Air Show, Saturday 19th July 11AM SLT

 

Come see dazzling aerial displays as the pilots of Black Purrl Airlines and Heavy Metal Aviation take to the skies over Fiji Island Airport.  Peruse the aviation exhibits, watch the amazing aerial maneuvers, and top it off with a Pink Floyd The Wall Tribute concert.   

  

   11:00 AM Grand Opening and Flyover by Miss Karlie, 

 11:10 Exhibitions and Meet & Greet with our staff,  

 11:20 Stunt exhibition over Fiji Isle by Admiral Kitty, 

 11:30 Wing Dancing Display, 

 11:35 Experience Flights 

 12-1:30 PM  CLOSING PARTY FULL PERFORMANCE of Pink Floyd's The Wall, complete with collapsing wall, lasers,  light show, and live action throughout! Billed best Live Show in 2015 Second Life,  Black Purrl is bringing ML back  to the stage to close our show at Haven Woods

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Bancs%20Providence/37/98/30

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EROTIQUE BURLESQUE: A BOHEMIAN LIFE-those who lived a freewheeling and unfettered lifestyle, making or appreciating music or art, outside the bounds of the convention. Encore show Sunday July 20/2025 @ 12:30pm slt.

 

EROTIQUE BURLESQUE: A BOHEMIAN LIFE-those who lived a freewheeling and unfettered lifestyle, making or appreciating music or art, outside the bounds of the convention of the day. Remember Woodstock? All you need is PEACE AND LOVE! Encore show Sunday, July 20/2025 @ 12:30pm slt.

THEME: VIE DE BOHEME

🍸 Dress Code: Semi Formal or in theme

🍸 Bring Your Friends for a night of sexy fun!

🍸 Doors Open Early! Don't miss out if the sim gets full!

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/French%20Soleil/117/135/28

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🎤 SL Enquirer Open Mic Songwriter Auditions – Wednesday, July 23rd!

 Featuring Wolfie Starfire | L$5000 Grand Prize | Sponsored by SecondLife.music 

 Get ready to bring the heat and light up the stage! The SL Enquirer Open Mic Songwriter Auditions return on Wednesday, July 23rd from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM SLT — and this time, we’re dialing the energy all the way up.

Whether you're a powerhouse vocalist, a lyrical genius, or a soul-stirring instrumentalist, this is your chance to shine in front of a live crowd, wow the judges, and compete for L$5000 in prize money plus a spotlight feature in the SL Enquirer.

 From chart-topping covers to original anthems, the stage is open to all styles and genres. This isn’t just an open mic — it’s a full-on celebration of creativity, passion, and the talent that fuels the Second Life music scene.

 Your Hosts for the Night:
Get ready for an unforgettable show, led by the legendary Ninja Antwoord, a virtual music icon with a sharp ear for talent, and the sensational Wolfie Starfire, whose powerhouse vocals and vibrant spirit will keep the energy soaring all night long.

️ Powered by SecondLife.music, the rising force in virtual entertainment, this event is your ticket to the spotlight. Whether you're an emerging artist or a returning favorite, this is your moment to grab the mic and make it count.

 One lucky performer will walk away with L$5000 and an exclusive feature in the SL Enquirer — but everyone who takes the stage walks away with new fans, new friends, and an unforgettable experience.

 So tune up that guitar, warm up those vocals, and get ready to give it everything you’ve got. This night is about raw talent, bold performances, and unforgettable music moments.

 Don’t miss it — Wednesday, July 23rd | 5–8 PM SLT
 The crowd is waiting. The lights are on. And the stage is yours.

 Step up. Sound off. Show out. Let’s make this a night to remember! 

____________________________________________________
With over 20 years of experience reporting virtual world news and participating in numerous charities, events and sponsorships across the grid, the SL Enquirer is the longest running media source in SL. We love working with our fans!

Contact: Ninja, SLE Events Coordinator (ninjaantwoord resident)

About Ninja Antwoord:

Ninja Antwoord is a passionate and dynamic host in the Second Life music scene. Known for his love of live music and his ability to bring people together, Ninja continues to make waves by creating fun and engaging events for all music lovers.

Public Landmark:

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Akamai/214/23/22

Website:

http://www.slenquirer.com/

Social Media:

https://www.facebook.com/TheSLEnquirer/

https://twitter.com/LanaiJarrico/

_______________________________________________

Performer Website:

https://wolfiestarfire.com/

https://www.facebook.com/wolfie.starfire/

About Wolfie Starfire:

Wolfie Starfire is a soulful singer-songwriter with a powerful voice and a unique style. Her heartfelt lyrics and captivating performances have earned her a loyal following. With her warm presence, Wolfie is the perfect co-host to bring an extra spark of magic to this love-themed edition of the auditions.

____________________________________________
About SecondLife.music

SecondLife.music is the go-to platform for virtual live music bookings, singer/songwriter showcases, and special event promotion within Second Life. Whether you're a musician seeking to perform, a venue looking for fresh talent, or an event organizer hoping to make a splash, SecondLife.music connects all the key players in the world of virtual live music.

Media Contact:

Ninja Antwoord (ninjaantwoord resident)
Founder/Owner, SecondLife.music
Email: ninjaantwoord@secondlife.music
Website: https://www.secondlife.music
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573566731384
Discord: https://discord.com/invite/RW9TdBpN5y

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EROTIQUE BURLESQUE: A BOHEMIAN LIFE-those who lived a freewheeling and unfettered lifestyle, making or appreciating music or art, outside the bounds of the convention of the day. July 11/2025 @ 7:15pm slt.

 EROTIQUE BURLESQUE: A BOHEMIAN LIFE-those who lived a freewheeling and unfettered lifestyle, making or appreciating music or art, outside the bounds of the convention of the day. Remember Woodstock? All you need is PEACE AND LOVE! July 11/2025 @ 7:15pm slt.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/French%20Soleil/117/135/28

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELASE: Black Purrl Airlines in Conjunction with SL22B and Travel & Adventure, is proud to announce

 Black Purrl has a presence at SL22B on the Enchant sim showcasing the different ways people can travel across the Grid other than teleporting. We are also the only provider approved to make powered flights over the SL22B sims, and will be flying from our display until July 20th. Flights will be announced in conjunction with the Travel & Adventure group. Come and join us for a leisurely tour over the SecondLife Birthday exhibition in one of our Airships or Helicopters. Black Purrl. Going Places.

Black Purrl SL22B: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/SLB%20Enchant/112/93/21        

   Travel & Adventure Group: secondlife:///app/group/5eed6fa3-6ea1-cdb5-16c6-9b5d312ed131/about 

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UPDATED: SL's TOP MODELS COME TOGETHER AS ONE!

 

Forty of Second Life's top models put on a breathtaking show for SL's 22nd anniversary celebration. Titled "WE ARE THE WORLD" after the legendary song, the show celebrated the beauty and power of diversity.

Dressed by LUXE Paris, the models created looks inspired by different cultures around the world, often evoking mythical gods, in keeping with SL's 22nd anniversary theme.

A PHOTOGRAPHIC REPORT

BY CHARLOTTE CHILSOM

Amazing in creativity and color, the show featured the greatest hits for a better world, while hosts Margot LaSalle and Theta Starlight described the inspiration behind the various looks created by the models.

The world is much better in all colors, proclaimed this grand fashion happening, brilliantly produced by LUXE Paris ambassador VanessaJane, in collaboration with show coordinator Monica Querrien.

The set, created in twisted prims by Vanessa, was round and multicolored like the earth and its diverse peoples.

In the room, the spectators were captivated, applauding fervently in a great wave of solidarity.

Did you miss this great moment of fashion and universality? A second performance will take place on Sunday, July 13th at 11 a.m. at the LUXE Paris exhibition site in SLB Blissful/40/140.

You can also get a landmark at the LUXE Paris main store at

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Bao/56/72/26

Updated 7/7/25

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Coming soon "WE ARE THE WORLD" Super Fashion Show!

Mark your calendars! LUXE Paris fashion house is celebrating Second Life's 22nd anniversary with a spectacular runway show featuring 40 models from around the world!

Just like that memorable evening of 1985 when 46 famous musicians came together to sing for the benefit of starving Africa, Second Life's top models will come together, this time to promote the beauty and power of diversity!

Led by LUXE Paris ambassador VanessaJane, these runway stars will take us on a world tour on the wings of fashion! Let us unite to applaud them and show the world that our planet comes in all colors!  Doesn't the Earth really need these multicultural vibrations of love when war is looming on the horizon?

The event, which promises to be historic, will take place on the main stage of SL's 22nd anniversary celebrations on Sunday, June 29th at 11:30 AM SLT.

You will find a teleport at LUXE Paris main store at http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Bao/56/72/26

The WE ARE THE WORLD show will also be broadcast live at https://www.youtube.com/@javimismis/streams

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