Elanthian Vogue/Lormesta 5119

This is a creative work set in the world of Elanthia, attributed to its original author(s). It does not necessarily represent the official lore of GemStone IV.

Title: Elanthian Vogue: Lormesta 5119

Author: The Looking Glass

This Month's Edition

Editor: The Editorial Team in the absence of Rohese Bayvel-Timsh'l

Editor's Thoughts

It’s around this time of year that people usually start thinking about self-improvement and change but it is usually loaded with the guilt-ridden feelings of shame, blame, and unreasonable expectation. Many of us aspire to be a “better” person whether that is by striving to achieve a personal goal like living a more glamorous lifestyle, mastering a new skill, being more fashion conscious, or simply just smiling more.

Happiness doesn’t tend to be found through an epiphanic process though; we’re changing and shifting all the time – constantly in flux as we learn through our experiences, make mistakes, and negotiate the world around us. There is something to be said for the potential of a new year, however. It is no coincidence that Lorminstra, the Goddess of Winter, is also the Goddess of Death and Rebirth. It is at this time of the year that the eleven stars of Lorminstra’s Gates glimmer in the ebon sky as a portent for new beginnings.

Maybe now is a good time to look back over the past year and work out what we can do differently in 5119 to make a fresh start and improve our lives or the lives of others. It doesn’t have to be the dramatic “change the world” stuff, either; it can be pretty easily achievable.

So, where to start? You could join an Order or Society whose purpose aligns with yours, find an organization that speaks to something you feel strongly about (try one of the Co-operative Houses of Elanthia or Meeting Hall Organizations), or get involved with a campaign that you feel invested in supporting such as fundraising or volunteering for a worthy cause.

Amplify your own voice as well. Why not consider running for mayor if you’re passionate about politics or attending one of the Landing Town Hall sessions. If you want to get creative, why not try poetry or songwriting. There are plenty of opportunities to perform during the year such as Bardfest - a long-running annual festival of the performing arts.

Finally, given that it’s the new year, why not treat yourself? Buy something gorgeous from your local boutique or citizen shop, smug in the knowledge that your silvers are supporting the local economy and you look glamorous in the process. Or treat someone else; donate your unwanted items to a worthy cause. After all, it is said that charity brings to life again those who are spiritually dead.

The most important thing to remember about all the possibilities of a new year - and a new you - is to make a difference.

As always, don't forget to send us your comments on any of the articles in this month's publication or suggestions for future editions.

Editorial Team

Lifestyle: Glamour!

The word "glamour" has its roots in spell-casting, sorcery and magical enchantment. Instant – albeit superficial - glamour can be achieved through the use of some unusual trinkets.

Glamour crystals are neck-worn items with the ability to cast a robed or knightly glamour that conceals your features and inventory from the onlooker. More recently, a different version became available through the infamous Duskruin Arena. The so-called MoonShard pendants act like the crystals whereby their metal dictates the color of the glamour haze and the addition of bloodrunes can alter the illusion’s appearance. It is also possible to achieve a magical glamour through the application of a very rare inky black sigil tattoo.

Being glamorous, however, is about feeling comfortable with yourself and your place in the world. Some consider the outward appearance, some consider their mind and intellect, others consider their sense of humor. They are all of equal importance. As far as aesthetics or visual appearances go, you should aim to create an illusion of fantasy and enticement. If this sounds appealing then you are well on your way to living a glamorous lifestyle.

Those who have frequented high society events over the years will be familiar with the famed beauty, Lady Corlyne Lancre Nalfein. We were fortunate enough recently to be invited into her boudoir in the Sylvanfair Manse where she gave us a glimpse into her glamorous lifestyle.

"I consider my life in Ta'Nalfein very much the definition of glamorous with innumerable social calls, celebrations, and balls, but outside of my home, I still find the same level of refinement and allure in everyday interactions.  As long as I'm properly clothed, with company I enjoy, and have a drink in hand, I consider this glamorous!"

Instantly put at our ease, it is clear that she is skilled at all forms of social engagement, having a sharp intellect, quick wit, and very beguiling smile. Her surroundings were elegant, yet comfortable, and no details were overlooked in her appearance despite assurances that she "hadn’t made a real effort."

You see Lady Corlyne Lancre Nalfein.
She appears to be an Elf.
She is tall in stature and has an hourglass figure.  She appears to be young.  She has ebon-haloed, vivid nephrite green eyes and faultless, soft alabaster skin.  She has long, roughly tousled burgundy hair loosely bound behind her left ear, the side-chignon pierced by a spear-like halo of thin banded onyx hairpins.  She has a small button nose and a healthy curvature to her hips.  She has blackened gold lacquer brushed onto her manicured fingernails.
She has an arc of inked silhouettes across the curve of her collarbone.
She is in good shape.
She is wearing an alabaster-scaled python lavaliere, a sable leather corset jacket buckled beneath the bust, a trio of finger-talons chained to a mesh handflower, a pair of ashen suede pants caught with a bustle of obsidian velvet, a thigh-buckled nubuck case, and some ankle-cut dark leather boots lofted on thin heels.

During our chat, we couldn’t fail to notice the Eoantos edition of Elanthian Vogue close at hand on the side table. It was the perfect opportunity to seek her views on the articles within, particularly those concerning cigars, whiskey and, of course, men.

"Elanthia is a wonderful world full of unique personalities, but it is difficult to find a gentleman who elevates you and leaves you better to have known him."

It is no secret that Corlyne enjoys an aged whiskey alongside a perfectly rolled cigar but she is quick to add that – as with fashion – one must always be sure to complement the drink with a tobacco flavor that enhances and elevates it, thereby creating a memorable experience for all concerned. When it comes gentlemen, she is also quite clear on her expectations.

"A gentleman, in my opinion, is similar to a lady in court: a diverse wealth of knowledge, a lively conversationalist, and a suave charmer.  He is capable of capturing the attention of the room, but only does so when he feels that the occasion calls for it.  He has an impeccable attention to detail, but does not boast about his accomplishments."

Rarely declining invitations, Corlyne considers it an honor to be invited to any event as she deems it an opportunity to meet new people. She will, however, politely decline if she has business elsewhere or obligations that would not allow her to travel - no doubt making use of the neat stack of stationery and notecards sitting alongside her copy of Elanthian Vogue.

"Living a life of leisure has translated into a passion for all things fashion, and the ability to have my designs created in the hands of able tailors and seamstresses is a dream come true."

Turning to her sense of style and choice of attire, she admitted to preferring lighter fabrics and hemlines for early morning and afternoon events. Her outfits extend to both dresses and skirts but she acknowledged a particular fondness for trousers and corsets with simple, yet intricate jewelry, or flower for her hair as an accent. For evening events, however, her preference is for "going all out” and she is often seen in opulent gowns, furs, and heavily jeweled items.

"Evenings skew towards a more robust event, and as such, I take great pleasure in draping myself in the best of the best."

Having delved into the delightful depths of her wardrobe and shared a glass (or three) of a very fine wine, our conversation turns to her routine and it soon becomes clear that her typical day isn’t mundane by most people’s standards.

Following a late evening out, which we’ve learned is fairly typical, her midday begins with a quiet study of the city's - typically Ta'Illistim - goings on from local sources, followed by matters concerning her House and other organizations that benefit from her patronage. With a cup of coffee – or, more likely, a glass of champagne - she turns her attention to sketches and fabric swatches for future designs. This usually involves communication with her favorite seamstress (we were unable to glean who that might be for the coming season but I’m sure the name will be synonymous with glamour before the year is out). Thoughts then turn to her outfit for the day and notes often made in a folio for future inspiration.

The rest of the afternoon is spent visiting friends, or occasionally, as she admits with a wry smile, a bit of exercise in an attempt to complete a bounty for Jarivyth. A light meal or glass of whiskey is consumed at some point, again shared with a wry smile and mischievous glint in her eye, followed by a long bath and an outfit change depending on her evening plans. If the evening out ends sooner than planned, she enjoys dabbling in the arts whether that is attempting to paint, learning a new instrument, or simply reading.

Many of you may now be asking, how can I be more glamorous? Quite simply, it can be achieved by following a few simple guidelines.

• Maintain your appearance: stay clean and tidy with neatly manicured nails and the right hairstyle for the occasion.

• Coordinate and plan your outfits: opt for fine fabrics like silk, satin, velvet, lace, or cameline, and keep colors matching by using a limited palette – nothing says “glamour” like being “put together.”

• Act confidently and keep your emotions level: never create a scene, yell at people who upset you, or generally get extremely sensitive about something that’s going on. Think before you speak, making sure not to offend anyone or show you lack knowledge.

• Being glamorous is about creating a great first impression, make sure to use your manners, especially when meeting someone for the first time.

In closing, Corlyne shared her thoughts:

"Find something that you are truly passionate about and learn all you can from it.  Take pleasure in the luxuries of life, even if it's something small.  Memorize how it looks, how it feels, how it tastes or smells, and how it makes you feel and embrace it."

It is important to remember that, above all, glamour is a state of mind: be unapologetic in your approach.

Off the Shelf: Glamour!

The Style Team at Elanthian Vogue have been busy putting together another couple of outfits for those with limited resources. As before, all the items selected were purchased from established outfits and we hope they go some way to making you feel more glamorous!

Nothing says stately and glamorous like purple, black and gold.

STATELY

She has beautifully smoke-outlined eyes.
She is wearing some elbow-length sheer black lace gloves, an aubergine organza gown trailing a ruffled fishtail train, and some dark satin shoes perched on gilt-inset heels.

The feminine, near-black gown is available to loyal customers from the backroom of Caelyna's Boutique in Solhaven. To complete this stately outfit, why not add a pair of gold earrings (available from any good jewelers) or a smoke black-on-gold jacquard bag from the same retailer as the shoes, the Ta'Vaalor, Women's Clothier.

Long evening gloves are back in vogue and the same classic black pair has been used in both outfits. They are available from Elaraeyn's Boutique in Wehnimer's Landing - as is the makeup. Don’t be afraid to adorn them with sparkling jewelry, like the extraordinary orange-gold ring from Hervina's Baubles in Zul Logoth, for maximum drama.

CLASSIC

She has a shimmer of gold on her eyelids.
She is wearing a brushed reddish gold fox fur shawl, some elbow-length sheer black lace gloves, a tangerine quartz-inset ring, a garnet-sheened stygian velvet column gown, and some dark satin shoes perched on gilt-inset heels.

Classically elegant, a slender-fitting black velvet gown is a "must-have" in any glamorous wardrobe. The example on display here can be purchased from the aforementioned Ta'Vaalor, Women's Clothier. Nothing signifies luxury quite like fur and the sumptuous shawl is the perfect addition to any evening outfit. It can be found in Flashfeet's Fine Fashions, in Icemule Trace.

A Cut Above

Our inner self may be silently questioning, “How is it 5119 already? Where does the time go?” but our outer, more fashionable self is probably saying, “Time for new hair!” A new year brings with it a whole host of new trends just waiting to be experimented with and there’s no reason why this shouldn’t include your hairstyle.

Whether it's the return of haircombs and barrettes, or working with this year's most outrageous hair colors - pink is so hot right now - the new year brings with it the perfect opportunity to test out a new hairstyle and we know just the right place to go and get it.

Featured in the Lumnea edition, Shear Delight is a beauty salon on Mist Harbor. The front of the shop sells make-up and hair accessories, but there are talented stylists down the hallway and through the arch that offer a range of fabulous colors, textures, and styles.

He has haphazardly cut, spiked onyx black hair with white-blonde tips

She has chin-length, silky seashell pink hair with delicate layering in the back.

The more basic "New Look" Pavilions are available in most towns. The attendants are less skilled (often causing a minor injury) and they are more limited in their styling options.

He has very short, glossy steel grey hair shaved at the temples.

She has very long, wavy titian hair worn in a ponytail.

Festivals have been known to sell bottles of temporary hair dye that can add highlights, lowlights or even change the color completely. Lasting for about 4 hours, they are perfect for making an impression at a social engagement without resorting to a drastic permanent change. Temporary hair dyes can almost be made by a skilled alchemist.

For those of you that are not willing to go that far, there’s always the option of a wig. Just make sure to keep some wig powder on you to relieve that pesky itch.

He has shortish, vivid copper red hair side-shaved in angular sharp-crested waves.
(Previously available from Best Tressed)

She has flowing, softly waved azalea pink hair worked into a delicate half-twist 
(Previously available from Wigged Out)

Sweet Charity

People give to charity on a regular basis to support causes they believe in, as well as for the positive effect it has on their own lives. Donating is uplifting and rewarding. The knowledge that you're helping others is hugely empowering and, in turn, can make you feel happier and more fulfilled; it really is far better to give than to receive. Having the power to improve the lives of others is, to many people, a privilege, and one that comes with its own sense of obligation. Acting on these powerful feelings of responsibility is a great way to reinforce our own personal values and feel like we’re living in a way that is true to our own ethical beliefs.

There are several ways to "give." Look out for announcements of fundraising events or opportunities to volunteer for worthy causes such as the recent rebuilding of the Ta'Vaalor bridges over the Mistydeep River, the continued relief efforts for the displaced and Talador refugee programme, the Wellington Home for orphans, and the Shanty Town development project in Wehnimer's Landing.

If you would prefer your charity to be more low-key then consider donating your unwanted items to others. Clothing can be placed on the cloak rack in Dari's Clothiers (Wehnimer’s Landing), handed to Coleesta in the Ta’Vaalor’s Legendary Rest or Saphrie in the Triage Station. Ghaerdish, the fortress’ furrier, will also accept your old boots and shoes. Alternatively, donations bins for all sorts of items, including weapons and armor, can be found in the various Silverwood Manor courtyards across Elanthia.

Useful contacts:

• Order of the Lorekeepers - just ring the bell!
• Wellington Home for orphans - Headmistress Surofee and her assistant, Sycira
• Shanty Town development project - Maylan
• Relief efforts for the displaced/Talador refugee programme - Puptilian, Rohese Bayvel-Timsh'l, Nihrvanah Tarsonath

Start giving today and make a difference!