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hikennosabo · 1 year ago

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trimax volume 6 random thoughts

chapter 1:

oh, hey, it's the guy from the 98 anime!..... or not?!

i'm not keeping track of this TOO closely, so there may be other instances of this that i missed, but the guy from 98 episode 1 also showed up in trimax chapter 7. it makes me wonder if nightow provided character designs/ideas to the 98 team, or if it's the other way around and he decided to incorporate anime-original characters into the manga. either way: neat!

HAVE I MENTIONED I LOVE MERYL, BY THE WAY.

i love the bits of characterization we've been getting for her. she (and milly) are our tie to humanity, after all

i must say it is nice to have a goofy fight after... all that in volume 5. and before... the rest of volume 6.

chapter 2:

aaaand now we start the next chapter with wolfwood's nightmare/flashback! hurts just a little bit! (the trio IS kinda serving tho ngl... when you have a fashion show at 7 but need to terrorize the orphanage at 6)

^ completely and 100% unironically, they were in love here.

i just... ugh. this is such a vashwood chapter. the absolute trust and fighting together completely seamlessly, they are just. ugh. ughhhhh. this kind of trust just GETS to me.... sorry. i'm normal about them. i'm NORMALLLLLLaauughghghgh

ANYWAY. chekhov's table made me laugh

i am physically restraining myself from going crazy over vw again as i reread this chapter to write this post.

anyway anyway. ww calling himself "nicholas" is cute :)

just kidding one more vw comment as a treat

HE'S SO IN LOVE. FUUUUUCK.

chapter 3:

legato continues to be fascinating to me. i'm observing him like a bug in a jar. which is appropriate, considering...

WHEN I CALLED HIM A BAGWORM IN THAT ONE POST I WAS JOKINGGGGG I WAS JOKING!!! THIS MADE ME LAUGH FOR LIKE 10 MINUTES STRAIGHT WHY DID SHE HANG HIM FROM THE CEILINGGGG IT'S SO FUNNY

this is actually making me fucking cry.

...i got so distracted laughing at bagworm legato that i almost forgot to say literally anything else about the chapter, but anything else i have to say mostly boils down to "wow, legato is such a freak (affectionate)"

also, whenever something that was in tristamp is brought up i feel like the leonardo dicaprio pointing meme. like "oh hey, i know this!" going into this manga with prior knowledge from stampede is... an interesting experience. all that being said, i can't WAIT to see more of the manga version of double fang. oh nightow we're really in it now

chapter 4:

oh, finally, FINALLY!!! last volume i asked where the knives nuance was and now we're FINALLY getting some knuance, thank god. seeing knives react to just how badly humans treat plants is SO effective. and we're not even up to the juicy part yet. it makes me want to eat glass.

speaking of eating glass.

i thought something like this might've been the case, but still... this hurts to read.

i want to eat glass!!!! fuck!!! this reveal is so insane, it's like monkey's paw of "this is a way knives can be defeated, but by the same method, vash is closer to death than knives is." WE don't want vash to die, and neither does knives, and this chapter is the first (and possibly the only, idk) time the reader's feelings and knives's feelings are... well, aligned. at least in a sense.

chapter 5:

this chapter is really something, because it starts off almost seeming like another lighthearted "we're in a random town fighting a goofy enemy of the month" romp much like the early chapters were, heck like chapter 1 of this very volume. but it's just wearing the skin of that. which is, y'know. the thesis of this entire chapter. smiling to hide the pain and all that.

i don't think i can really... articulate anything of substance. the chapter just kind of... speaks for itself, i think.

although i DID laugh at ww trying to enjoy his noodles and failing, and also the phrase "needle-noggin-isms." thanks for providing some levity, we actually really do need it.

chapter 6:

ohhh boy we are REALLY in it now!!

i enjoy seeing knives ponder like this. legs crossed, arm slung over his face... i don't know. maybe it's because i myself sometimes lounge in this pose.

what exactly is he thinking about, i wonder. that in awakening/forcing vash to use his powers, he unintentionally pushed him closer to death? maybe? i don't know. either way it's very on-the-nose for what their relationship has been like.

and then of course we cut to this shot of vash, looking in a mirror created by knives's slice

this shot is making me think a lot and i'm reading too much into it, but- obviously the reflection puts vash's beauty mark on the opposite side, so there's the knives resemblance, so also, i suppose vash must see knives every time he looks in the mirror, right? also vash looking at his reflection featuring his own black hair- which we're all still thinking about... i dont know. i dont even know if this is anything LOL. i feel like i have the dots but i'm failing to articulate the connection. anyway

this made me laugh. thanks for the levity again, wolfwood :)

BECAUSE WE'RE GONNA NEED ALL THE COMIC RELIEF WE CAN GET, BABY!!!

maybe i'm just insane for this because it's Generic Party Imagery but the specific combination of rem flashback + party popper + funny glasses makes me think of the similar scene in 98 when the seeds crew celebrates finding planet gunsmoke. like is this another instance of nightow nabbing stuff from 98 or am i just making things up.

the twins are so cute and baby knives smiles so much, i want to microwave myself.

knives wants to believe in humanity. man. MAN!!!!!

what comes next... i'm absolutely carrying my prior stampede knowledge into this, but fuck, man. fuck. even then, i know that stampede didn't show everything, so i don't even fully know what to expect. which is fun! but i can't believe the volume ends right in the middle of the flashback, MAN!!!

#Having A Normal One #trigunbookclub #trigun talk #june speaks

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aikoiya · 8 months ago

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LoZxGoW - Ganondorf Meets Kratos

I just thought of something potentially terrifying & epic at the same time.

The hell would happen if Kratos found his way to Hyrule & met Ganondorf?

How would he react to the man's greed & envy?

How would Ganondorf react to learning that this large man was a literal god of war in 2 separate pantheons & has been instrumental in both their apocalypses. One not born into the role, but having taken it by killing a god with his own 2 hands? And not just one, but several. A literal Godslayer.

That sort of thing is something Ganondorf probably dreams of. Yet, the one who did it was this old man? One who'd gone to live in... peace in the frozen wilderness? To raise a family??

I don't think that the Gdorf would be able to compute that.

The most interesting thing is that they actually have something in common: a harsh upbringing. Though, the differences are that Ganondorf's was environmental, while Kratos' was societal. As well as the fact that while Kratos at least had his fellow soldiers (specifically other men) & later, his family (both of them), Ganondorf had been completely isolated from masculine fellowships practically from birth.

Interestingly, I also don't think that Gdorf really gets the sort of mountains that a man can move when he's got something more substantial than simple greed & ambition motivating him.

Despite what a lot of fans think, Gdorf isn't nearly as good of a king as they like to believe. The only thing that any of his incarnations has ever truly wanted revenge for were all motivated by pride & envy at their very core.

Not even WW. Remember, he was also post-timeskip OoTdorf, & in those 7 years, he didn't bring his people into Hyrule. Not a one! It wasn't for their own protection either, because all the soldiers from pre-timeskip were gone. What did the Gerudo have to fear!? And, we know that at least one of the Hyrulean Soldiers died due to the Dorf's betrayal. Also, keep in kind, WWdorf never said that he coveted Hyrule's winds for his people. All he said was that, "I coveted that wind..."

In fact, this is what he said in the English: "My country lay within the vast desert. When the sun rose into the sky, a burning wind punished my lands, searing the world. And when the moon climbed into the dark of night, a frigid gale pierced our homes. No matter when it came, the winds always carried the same thing... Death. But the winds that blew across the green fields of Hyrule brought something other than suffering & ruin. I coveted that wind, I suppose."

If he truly held any real desire to bring his people back, then it was likely due to having lost them. Because provided that Dorf knew about his mothers' dealings, he also knew that they had brainwashed Nabooru, one of his own people. Also, recall that Nabooru herself said, "He steals from women & children." Which suggests that these acts might've been considered cultural taboo for the Gerudo.

As such, I can't help but notice something he said. "And when the moon climbed into the dark of night, a frigid gale pierced our homes."

At least judging on what we see in OoT, this was a lie. Because they live in the Gerudo Fortress. Which was modeled after the Anasazi cliff dwellings in Mesa Verde. Which were designed to be cool in the summer & warm in the winter.

Regardless, the Dorfs have never had someone truly, intimately important to him that he legitimately cared about, taken from him in the way that Kratos has. At least, not anything that wasn't also himself in some form or fashion. OoT Gdorf didn't even mention the fact that Link had killed his mothers. (Sure, it's possible that he wasn't aware, but somehow I doubt it.)

Hell, Kratos wasn't some god-king born into a royalty where he was worshiped from his first breath. He was a child soldier with a wife & daughter who were both stolen from him by a bunch of overinflated hedonists looking for some entertainment. And then when he was finally beginning to live & be happy again, another old bearded fuckhead with an ego as big as his sadistic streak & paranoia combined decides to fuck around & find out with his son because they wouldn't let them just give his late wife a proper burial!

Seriously, both the bastards could've avoided practically everything that happened to them if they weren't such freaking dicks.

Yes, the G-man suffered. But he's no freaking clue how angry or powerful you can get when you have a family that you genuinely love & they've been taken from you by a bunch of sky bitches on a power trip for a chuckle.

It's just very interesting to think about.

LoZ General Masterlist

#loz #legend of zelda #ganondorf #god of war #gow #kratos

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pey-no-attention-to-me · 2 years ago

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All characters included are made and designed by pey-no-attention-to-me on tumblr

OAMAR WOOD

drawing also by pey on ibis paint x :) (click for better quality)

Background:

Oamar is a 21 year old Latino man, born in Saarland, Germany(1982). No specific birth date yet. No parent info. Has a sister that goes by the name Jackie.

Oamar and his sister flee from Germany to France(1988) due to rabid animals(animalistics). His sister takes care of him until she decides to join a man(no name) and his movement of stopping all animalistics, growing distant from Oamar. He follows in her foot steps and joins the boycott in attempts to grow closer to his only know relative, but no matter, he ends up only growing closer to his old friends anxiety and insanity.

After many years, until he is 21, he is still in this group, it growing bigger, stronger and violent over time. Oamar feels conflicted and that he can’t control himself after leading a young man to his death. Our main character, Junko Hirohiko teaches him a lesson on the realistic view of life, saving him from the bad group and helping him with recovery. Sadly, Oamar will never be able to get his nice sister back, her staying with the group and never speaking to him again.

Oamar is a very anxiety driven person, and can’t help himself. He needs other people to be his guide to life. Some of the things he enjoys in life are gardens, relish, and clothes shopping, he is a very fashionable person when he can afford it.

Animalistic:

A bat named Hands, in possession of Oamar Wood.

Can play the piano professionally, even with their small teensy weenie hands.

Their animalistic is where they bite someone, and blood comes out of their fangs into somebody’s blood steam. Kind of like a snake with venom but it puts blood in your bloodstream instead of venom. Can save people from dying of blood loss. Not very helpful because that rarely occurs..

Eventually gets turned into a human by Lizzu Sonny(17, 2010), but they still keep their animalistic.

Kind of an awkward little guy, but is very kind and sticks with the people he knows needs help.

Soul(I don’t really know what it is yet):

Named Laplaces Angel, after the WW song.

Reflects Oamar’s insanity and confusion. The bad part of his soul.

Stands in people’s room in the dead of night, or appears in darkness, other than that it doesn’t do much but follow Oamar around.

Inspiration:

All of these characters were inspired by the songwriter, artist, and human being Will Wood. I appreciate his work and will forever appreciate him even if he never returns to music career. He made many people lives better and we all thank him for it all.

Oamar & LA’s inspo.

Hands inspo.

(At 1:10)

#will make masterpost when I add more #Spotify #oamar wood #skelliont #skelloint #ocs #oc profile #oc #oc tag

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bomber2jacket · 2 years ago

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B3 Sheepskin Bomber Jacket

The B3 Sheepskin Bomber Jacket continues to be one of the most popular jackets around the globe. Expensive? You're not paying too much, but CockPitUSA makes one of the most popular bomber jackets in America today. Made in New Jersey by skilled New Jersey Union Workers, the shealing lambskin jacket has been one of the top-quality bomber jackets ever made!

Made from Class 1 sheepskin, this jacket harkens back at WW II, and the boys of B-17 and B-24 heavy bombarders that filled Europe's skies and helped so many to regain their freedom. The B3 Bomber Jacket is soft and warm. This jacket kept our pilots warm again from the extreme cold elements of high-altitude flying.

Each Shearling B3 Bomber Jacket is unique and looks exactly like the one worn by bomber crews. This is due to the sheepskin being turned inside-out. The varnish that is applied to the jacket gives it its color. Each blemish creates a unique look and is called pelt. It is the leather jacket worn by real men who challenged the skies and the enemy at high elevations, and helped win WW II. This jacket is the bomber jacket men need to be confident and courageous.

Since World War II, leather jackets made from leather have been very popular. They can be easily adapted to suit men's style in both design and fashion. The Original B3 bomber jacket has long been the standard jacket for formal and casual wear regardless of the weather.

Its military-inspired styling has made the sheepskin B3 bomber jacket for men a popular choice. They last many years and are very affordable.

CockPitUSA's WW II-era leather jackets include the B3 Bomber Jacket. This B3 Bomber Jacket in sheepskin has been synonymous with bravery and courage.

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hauntedstarfishbanana · 2 years ago

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15 Tips About producent skarpetek From Industry Experts

Africa is undergoing an unbelievable creative renaissance, it truly is mindblowing to witness. I not too long ago moved from the United kingdom to Ghana to knowledge Africa and its Inventive elevation mainly because it unfolds. In this post, I am intending to showcase a few of the most interesting Innovative makes to come out in the continent.™

Chale Socks

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OhYesLord

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Selly Raby Kane

Selly Raby Kane is usually a Senegalese trend designer who makes highly creative pieces. Her brand name was born from a enthusiasm for city African influenced design and style. Her parts display an uninhibited design and grace. The manufacturer can be described as high fashion satisfies edgy, urban Afro stylish.

My Experience Working With African Creative Brand names

I've labored with quite a few African Resourceful brands. I observed the passion, commitment to their craft along with the willpower to succeed in a continent in which alternatives are straightforward to spot but difficult to capitalise on. The talent in Africa is outstanding, inspiring, motivating. Once i touch down on African soil, my 1st believed is to build, learn, make. Africa pushes you in a way that I would have not considered attainable.

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Some time again I wrote and posting on this subject matter. Even so, Letterman suggests his socks are not white. Effectively, They give the impression of being white on my tv set. They need to look white to Other folks much too or why would he make the remark. I assume These are grey or mild blue or such. Who cares? Don't They appear foolish on a person inside a darkish Brooks Brothers accommodate?

I don white socks daily. When I place them on Sunday to head to Church my spouse goes ballistic. I notify her not to fret. I will just producent skarpet pull on my cowboy boots.

Listed here are the initial prime 10 causes I gave for Letterman's white socks:

one. He has jungle rot from WW II.

2. He hates to look for matching socks at midnight.

three. He isn't going to would like to ignore his "Region Pumpkin" roots.

4. His brother can be a male nurse with a substantial clothing allowance.

5. It helps him conceal in the cotton field through the revenuers, besides he is a Chicago White Sox admirer.

six. He is undoubtedly an avid Whitetail Deer hunter.

seven. He operates an evening position in the bakery.

eight. He thinks he's Frosty the Snowman.

9. His excellent grandmother wore white socks and that is how he remembers her.

As well as the 10th explanation that David Letterman wears white sox is:

10. He hopes to Check out for another Mickey-Mouse-kind Disney Character.

Here i will discuss 10 additional major explanations David Letterman wears white socks but this time We'll use Letterman's reverse order:

Variety 10. He is recognizing the demise from the Polar Bear.

Number nine. He will probably Perform from the snow together with his boy and he isn't going to want the neighbors to determine him.

Amount eight. It ruins the photographs with the paparazzi.

Quantity 7. He can find matching socks at nighttime without waking his son.

Amount six. The healthcare facility suggests white socks for recurring crisis bypass operation.

Amount five. He read that Napoleon most popular white socks.

Number four. He will not want to be chosen as the most beneficial Dressed Man with the Calendar year by People Magazine.

Number three. He will Bermuda proper following the demonstrate and will be shifting into his white match.

Selection two. Paul said he looks excellent dressed like a geek--

plus the Primary motive that Dave Letterman wears white sox is:

Number one. It is an element of his Clown Go well with!

Fly Aged Glory!

#Youtube

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ethelphantom · 5 years ago

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it’s a WONDERful day

Maribat March 2020, day 2: Training. Because we do not have enough WW & LB solidarity. Or friendship. Or fucking anything.

Ao3

This is Maribat -- don’t like; don’t read

__________________

“Aaahh, finally done. Never again. Chat, did you get the Peacock Miraculous? I need to get them to the Guardian,” Ladybug said, reaching out her open palm for Chat to give the pin to her. She already had the Butterfly in her other hand, so now as long as she got the Peacock from Chat, it would be great. He did hand it to her, after a moment.

“Do I— Do I have to give my ring away too?” he asked, hesitating. There was uncertainty and sadness in his voice, and it just broke Ladybug’s heart.

“I don’t know. I’m not taking it away from you, if that’s what you’re asking. If you do need to give it away, the Guardian will come to you and take it himself, just like he was the one to give it to you. I certainly hope he doesn’t want them back, I would hate to have to give Tikki back,” she replied. Ladybug put her hand on Chat’s shoulder and rubbed it with her finger. “But whatever happens, remember what we agreed on doing if we or one of us loses their Miraculous.”

Chat simply nodded before he took off, saluting to her and the woman standing behind her. Ladybug watched Chat go, a sad smile lingering on her face. Then she turned around to face the woman clad in red and blue armor, along with golden accents and a golden lasso. The woman smiled at her warmly.

“It’s wonderful to finally meet you, miss Ladybug,” she said and bowed to her. Ladybug was taken aback. She knew this woman was strong — after all, she had helped them defeat Papillon and Mayura, and she kept her emotions in check rather easily when Ladybug had told her how Papillon could and would use emotions against them, but she didn’t really know her. The woman continued speaking. “I am Wonder Woman, the champion of the Amazons, and the daughter of Queen Hippolyta, a previous—”

“Your mother was a Ladybug?”

Ladybug’s eyes were filled with fascination as they widened. Maybe there was a chance she could meet a previous Ladybug after all, if this woman indeed was Hippolyta’s daughter. She’d heard a lot about her from Tikki.

“Yes, yes she was, and when we heard there was a new Ladybug, we thought we would like to meet her. I was sent here to see how you were doing first, since the Ladybug is never brought to the world unless there is a great threat, and it seems I came at a good time. That man was your threat, wasn’t he?”

“Yeah. Papillon’s been a pain for too many months, but I’m pretty sure defeating him would have taken far longer had you not come and helped, so thank you for that!”

“It was no problem, I was happy to be able to help Ladybug. It seems you hadn’t managed to complete your training before being thrown into the war, so I would like to offer you a chance to train with my people. They are one the best warriors there are, so I am certain you would benefit of that,” Wonder Woman said and smiled at Ladybug.

Kwamii, the woman was gorgeous and she was offering her help, their help. There was absolutely no way she could say no.

Except, she was still barely 14 and had not finished school. Also, she was rather certain that they would not be here in Paris, so she would also have to come up with a reason to leave her parents, which was going to be much more difficult.

“I would love to do that, but… I’m not really sure I can? There’s school, my parents… I don’t think I know a way to avoid all that to be able to come,” she admitted, and Wonder Woman’s face hardened a little.

“Parents? School? Are you still in university?”

“No, I’m in middle school still. And I live with my parents — I’m not an adult yet.”

“You’re what? Were you put in the middle of war as a child?” The tone of her voice, while calm, radiated cold fury, but Ladybug got the idea that it wasn’t directed at her and rather at the person who’d chosen her — so Master Fu.

“Yes…?”

“I would certainly like to have a word with whoever your teacher is. They must have known that a child is not to be put to fight adults’ war, not when the evil you’re up against is far older than you are. You did wonderful considering that, though. Good job, I am proud of you.”

Wonder Woman was, for the lack of a better word, seething. She definitely wasn’t happy with Master Fu, but the reassurance she wasn’t angry with Ladybug (no, instead she was proud of her and said she’d done well!) brought a smile on her face. To be complimented by someone who certainly knew how to fight better than she did was an intoxicating feeling.

“Thank you!”

“Regardless, the offer of training stands. If it is a requirement, I live in the United States and know rather many influential people, so I could come up with something that would allow you to come with me. I understand revealing your identity is something you aren’t comfortable with, and shouldn’t be either, but that is likely necessary. If I know what you’re interested in, I could contact a person who could be responsible for you in your parents’ eyes while you trained with my people. Education would not be a problem either, that can and will be provided to you should you ask for it.”

Ladybug considered it. It was a wonderful opportunity and she didn’t want to miss it for the world. Besides, she had a feeling she could trust this woman. She was actually pretty certain that little voice in her ear telling her it was alright to have faith in her was Tikki.

“Alright, in that case, yes! Will you follow me so I can detransform somewhere safer? And if you could wear something more… civil, that would probably make things easier. My civilian self probably shouldn’t be seen near Wonder Woman,” Ladybug laughed nervously. She hoped it wasn’t too much to ask, but regardless she hurried to add, “it’s okay if you’re in a disguise even then, it’s just that I don’t want others to know my identity. My privacy is violated enough as it is.”

“Of course, Ladybug. Lead the way.”

Ladybug led them to a quiet alley where she could let her transformation fall. It was relieving to feel Tikki slip out of her earrings, and her suspicions about it being Tikki whispering in her ear were confirmed when Tikki didn’t complain about revealing herself to someone and instead flew to Wonder Woman and happily greeted her. “Diana! It’s so great to see you again! How long has it already been, at least two millennia, right?”

Wonder Woman — Diana — smiled and offered her hand for Tikki to land on. She did. “Yes, it has certainly been far too long. Is it alright if I take your Soul to Themyscira? It seems she hasn’t completed her training yet, which is unacceptable for a Ladybug.”

“She never did get any training. We didn’t have time before Papillon appeared. But yes, if she wants that, it’s all good with me. After all, I’d love to see your mother again, and all the others as well, but you know. She was my holder at some point too. Also, how did you know?”

“She what? And do you really think I wouldn’t be able to sense who the Soul you created belonged to? Tikki, you underestimate me. I’m no longer a child — she’s clearly the Soul of Creation,” Diana laughed and flicked Tikki’s head gently. It was rather adorable, if you asked Marinette.

Except.

Wait.

The soul of creation?

“It means you’re the true holder of the Ladybug Miraculous, Marinette,” Tikki said, suddenly floating in front of her. “I created your soul — it seems it decided to be born as you in this time and this place. I didn’t know when you were to be born, just that you would, one day.”

Oh. She’d said that out loud.

Diana changed her appearance as well, and then they were ready to go.

It… It didn’t take too long to convince her parents. It worked even better since Diana found out she loved designing clothes because Diana herself owned a fashion company and knew a few people who she could create a collaboration with to give Marinette a chance to try her hand at creating an actual line. The fact Diana was going to be the one responsible also felt better since that meant she wouldn’t even need to lie to her parents, really. Diana would actually let her do it.

The flight to the States to first get to Diana’s boutique and to have one of her acquaintances in on her plan (Marinette was rather surprised how quick Bruce Wayne and Oliver Queen were to create a collaboration with her but Marinette decided she didn’t want to question it. She felt like there was a story behind both she wouldn’t be too happy to know), and then they left to find the Paradise Island, the new Themyscira. Diana advised her to transform into Ladybug because the Island could exist anywhere and anywhen, so being Ladybug when entering would make it much easier upon finding it.

The Amazons welcomed her warmly and gave her a small bow as well. This time Ladybug had been expecting it as Diana had explained that any Ladybug would be held high in their eyes as their Queen had been Ladybug once upon a time. It didn’t make it any less weird, though. It was wonderful to be welcomed so well, though. It made her happy (and maybe a bit teary-eyed but that was another thing.)

While Diana went off to talk with Queen Hippolyta, Tikki and Antiope who had come back just because she’d heard Ladybug was back, Marinette took it as a chance to get to know Artemis of Bana-Mighdall and Donna Troy, as well as one of the Honorary Amazons: Cassie Sandsmark. It was nice to have (relatively) younger company, and she ended up especially liking Cassie who was the closest to her age. They’d all come just to meet the new Ladybug as well, all having at least heard the stories of Hippolyta as an Amazon.

Artemis had taken another look at Marinette when she offhandedly mentioned school and just stared at her before speaking, slowly, as though she couldn’t comprehend it (Marinette doubted it was that — it was more like she was just as scandalised by it as Diana had been earlier), “Gods damn it, why is the new Ladybug a literal child? Considering you aren’t an Amazon, that is far too young to be actually fighting in a war with the strongest Miraculous there is. Please tell me the Cat was an adult so you had someone supervising you, at least.”

“Nope! Just me and Chat, who is of my age, fighting against Papillon and Mayura, both definitely adults.”

“You did get to at least start proper training before you started fighting, though, right?”

“Again, nope. I got my Miraculous maybe twenty minutes before I had to transform for the first time because Papillon had attacked Paris.”

Artemis had buried her head in her hands and groaned something that sounded like “kids aren’t supposed to be fighting adults’ wars, what the hell.” Marinette just shrugged. Then, just as Cassie was about to take her to a tour around the Island, Hippolyta turned to look at them.

“Are you actually telling me you have no training? And that you were thrown in the middle of war with absolutely no training by your teacher?“ Marinette nodded; Hippolyta sighed. “Alright, we’re most certainly going to give you a proper Amazonian training so you will never again be the inferior one in a fight. Any Ladybug deserves that much, especially one with the Soul of Creation. Cassie, take her to the tour because you already managed to promise it to her, but afterwards, we’ll start your training. Artemis, if you can stay for a while to train her as well, that would be wonderful, but if you have to get back to the Outlaws, go ahead.”

Artemis stayed.

And yes, Marinette got her training, from the Amazons, but also a few superheroes both Artemis and Diana were in contact with, namely the Red Hood and Batman, since neither of the two had superpowers and the Amazons thought it would be good she got some training from people who were only human, like her. Superman was roped into occasional training sessions as well. All of the training sessions with Superman, Red Hood and Batman always happened outside of Themyscira, though.

Needless to say, the next time anyone dared to rise against Paris and especially the new Ladybug, it didn’t take long to end it all and return the world to its natural balance.

______

@freshbark @maribat-march2020 @catsandfanfic @fertileleaf @kris-pines04 @thethirdwheelfriend @daminett4life @abrx2002 @persephonebutkore @eat0crow

#Maribat #maribatmarch2020 #ml x dc #dc x mlb #dc #ml #miraculous ladybug #fanfiction #fanfic #ethel's writing

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dreamindolls · 5 years ago

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Aaa so i know i haven't been active on here but its been hard to be excited to write for kny because of all the new chapter leaks every week so i think ill be starting to write for other fandoms instead ww

For now im gonna start with bnha cause ive been getting really into it lately!! Also i say im gonna do reader inserts but this ones actually with my oc cause i love the quirk i gave her and i wanna write for her really badly

Usui's Quirk: Anima

This Quirk allows her to have the ability of an animal she befriends! She can understand animals and communicate with them. She can only use up to 3 abilities at a time. Depending on her friendship with the animals depends on how long she can use her abilities for. If an animal dies of natural cause (I.e: dies of old age, sickness,etc) it can choose to give her full access to using it for any amount of time.

This has only happened once so far with her bird. She cant pick and choose what abilities the animals give her rather they choose what they want to give her.

Her ability takes up lots of stamina and can be difficult to discover what abilities were given and control them.

So!! Without further ado heres my oc x hawks!!! (ily hawks)

It was a pleasant evening on the rooftop of her building. Who knows how many stories high it was but definitely close to the clouds. She took a deep breath in and sighed before standing up and stretching as if getting ready to jump. As she was prepping she felt a tug on her tank top. She turned around only to find a red feather. She grabbed it only for it to struggle in her fingers before slipping away back to it's master.

"Not going to jump I hope?" Bright red wings overtook her vision for a second as he flaunted them spreading them wide into the sky as if showing off to no one. The stray feather reattached itself.

The girl smirked as she turned to face him. "And if I am? Will the great number two hero save me?" She pretended to swoon, sarcastically emphasizing the word great and putting a hand over her forehead as if she was going to faint, taking a step backwards closer to the edge which made Hawks reach out slightly.

He smirked back at her making his way closer to her and the edge. "And if I stop you?" He tried to sneakily put his arm around her before noticing two distinct holes in the back of her shirt. He was about to question it but she quickly did a small spin as if dancing away from him.

Her arms out to her sides as she spun she laughed. "Then I guess we'll just have to see if you can save me number two." She smiled softly at him before she spun again and took a step off the building and let herself fall.

Hawks only reaction was to jump after her to catch her but as he was about to grab her, he stopped. "Do you jump off buildings for a living, for fun, or to be saved by a handsome hero?" He said that striking a pose clearly referring to himself, as he fell with her, a feather on her slowing her fall along with him.

She had a feeling he'd put another feather on her so she picked it off as much as it tried to stay on her. "I can fly on my own so I guess it's for enjoyment." She stated simply and if he knew. And before he knew it she disappeared. He looked around before looking up and seeing she'd gone up and she had sprouted wings. It was hard to see but he could see a smirk forming on her lips as she flapped her wings and turned to fly up. That was an invitation for competition if he ever saw one and he flew to catch up to her.

She looked down trying to see him again but suddenly he'd appeared next to her. "You'll have to be faster than that to beat me" he shrugged at her almost stating matter of factly.

"Challenge accepted bird brain" she whispered to herself as she took off after him catching up to him and tapping his shoulder to get his attention. She mimed a yawn and stretch as she continued to fly farther and faster than him. Honestly it was a surprise how long this continued. At some point though she had a thought.

She started to slow down little by little and her wings started to flap less and less. And of course the number two hero noticed this. "Getting tired already dove?" Dove?? What a lame nickname… I guess he really is a bird brain.

She smiled tiredly. "Maybe just a little but doesn't mean I can't keep going Bird Boy!" She stuck her tongue out at him in a teasing manner as he stared at her entertained.

“Not a very good insult if you’re also a bird y’know.”

“Hmm~ I wonder if I am a bird though..” She tapped her chin in fake thought as her wings suddenly disappeared and started to fall again. Hawks couldn’t help but react again trying to catch her just like the first time, but this time he'd caught onto her.

She was smiling again. Just like when she fell the first time. He cocked an eyebrow and frowned at her. "This must be fun for you huh? Do you always play heroes like this?"

"Aww you caught on to me. I guess you aren't as much of a bird brain as I thought." She smirked again. She sprouted her wings again and pushed out of this grip and made her way back to the building she started at and landed. Her wings spreading themselves one last time in almost the same fashion Hawks did when he arrived before retracted into her back.

"What kind of Quirk do you have? I don't think I've ever seen someone hide a mutant type like that before." He stared at her back before she turned around eyeing the marks on her back and the obvious holes in her shirt, seemingly designed so she could sprout her wings.

"Hmm… Do I tell the Number two hero my secrets or do I let him wonder forever… What to do, what to do." She pondered sarcastically as she tapped her finger on her chin. "The least I can do is introduce myself I suppose!" She laughed before pulling a card out of her pocket and handing it to him. Hawks was shocked it didn't fall out of her pocket while they flew. "The names Usui Enma. I run this building here. I have a hero license so I can freely use my quirk when I want. You should come check out my building sometime! It's quite fun in here you know!" She stated before she clicked a button on one of the pillars of the building and a hole appeared on the rooftop.

A few birds came out from inside the building and flew around Usui and Hawks as he stared at her amazed for a second. Only a second… Ok it was more like a minute. When he finally snapped out of it he put on his usual smirk and asked her. "What do you own a zoo in here or something? An awful large building for a zoo."

Pfft– Usui burst out laughing as the birds perched themselves around the hole in the roof and looked curiously at her. "This isn't a zoo but there are animals here! They're my friends! Of course I have human friends too but animals are so much better. Come see what it is when you have a day off, this isn't the kind of place you can spend only a few minutes at!" She laughed a little bit more before signaling something to the birds which made them take off back into the building.

Click

The hole started to close again. She saluted to him as she walked forward and plummeted into the now closed hole.

That was…. A lot more strange than Hawks had anticipated. He couldn't even react to what she was saying. He looked at the card again. Usui Enma… Quirk House..? What does that mean??

I guess he could find out now–

Ah. I guess not. That's Endeavor calling him for a job. Maybe another day soon he could see what this place is all about.

#bnha #bnha imagines #bnha hawks #bnha oc #bnha x reader #hawks x reader #my hero academia hawks #Hawks x oc #pls don't steal this Quirk it took me a while to work it out #and yes I have her drawn out n everything #ps I say tank top in this but it's like those sleeveless turtlenecks #you know the ones

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lesbeet · 4 years ago

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Christian Siriano is pretty cool. Do you think the world of HP has runway shows? What would they be like? Maybe Draco took Harry to one. Harry's never struck me as much of a clotheshorse.

this is...certainly an ask ksdfsldjf

god idk. honestly ive never been a fan of wizarding attire? like i get the appeal of a nice flowy cape or whatever but bleh

another thing is like. i know a million little details about the series and i still can’t tell you what most of them wear under their robes. i just looked it up and nobody else knows either

i came across this thing on pottermore that doesnt actually make a lot of sense but the gist of it was that muggle fashion is becoming more and more popular, even amongst purebloods who are firmly anti-muggle, but that formal occasions “such as christenings, weddings, and funerals” (do not even get me started with the weird inconsistencies of how jkr tries to shove christianity into this series just don’t) call for traditional robes or whatever

but even in the series like hermione wore a dress to the yule ball, and ginny wore a bridesmaid’s dress at bill and fleur’s wedding, and anyone who plans to interact at all with the muggle world by law has to own up-to-date muggle clothing so as not to call attention to themselves, so why can’t they just wear muggle clothes??

the pottermore thing also said that it’s a cultural point of pride for wizards or whatever + that it’s mostly those who are anti-muggle that refuse to wear muggle clothes (yes i know that’s pretty much a direct contradiction to what i just said...take it up w miss joanne transmisogynist rowling; she wrote the article)

so i really feel like in the aftermath of the war a general public shift to muggle clothing except for particular circumstances (like formal occasions or in certain professions, like the wizengamot, bc even in the real world judges have to wear special robes n stuff) makes a lot of sense. so in that case i do think fashion could become more of a Thing in the WW, which could allow for runway shows and such, even tho i dont think it’s really a huge thing in the time the series takes place. like i dont remember any famous wizarding designers or anything...i can name 2 or 3 robes shops but i always saw them as pretty generic + more for tailoring than design

i can also see draco very purposely embracing muggle clothing as a means of separating himself from his past and his family—i really can’t imagine a universe where he and harry can be together if he hasn’t distanced himself from his parents, whether or not that means cutting off contact completely. plus...we all know he grew up secretly admiring muggle fashion and deep down wishing he could try some of it. but i think he would also have an appreciation for traditional wizardwear, both bc he was raised to and bc he would like it aesthetically

i can’t see him successfully dragging harry to a fashion show out of nowhere, but i CAN see harry being invited bc he’s harry potter, him not wanting to go, and draco making him go anyway so he can be harry’s plus-one

but no i dont think harry has ever or will ever care about fashion. every time i write him i have him in jeans and t-shirt or sweater lmao [to be fair i have most of them in muggle clothes bc i again i dont like robes and dont feel like trying to describe them, but for harry it’s a conscious choice]

#anonymous #answered

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comicteaparty · 4 years ago

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June 22nd-June 28th, 2020 CTP Archive

The archive for the Comic Tea Party week long chat that occurred from June 22nd, 2020 to June 28th, 2020. The chat focused on The Stoop-Gallants by MJ Alexander and WW Rose.

Featured Comment:

Chat:

Comic Tea Party

BOOK CLUB START!

Hello and welcome everyone to Comic Tea Party’s Book Club~! This week we’ll be focusing on The Stoop-Gallants by MJ Alexander and WW Rose~! (http://www.thestoopgallants.com/site/)

You are free to read and comment about the comic all week at your own pace until June 28th, so stop on by whenever it suits your schedule! Discussions are freeform, but we do offer discussion prompts in the pins for those who’d like to have them. Additionally, remember that while constructive criticism is allowed, our focus is to have fun and appreciate the comic! Whether you finish the comic or can only read a few pages, everyone is welcome to join and chat with us!

DISCUSSION PROMPTS – PART 1

1. What did you like about the beginning of the comic?

2. What has been your favorite moment in the comic (so far)?

3. Who is your favorite character?

4. Which characters do like seeing interact the most?

5. What is something you like about the art? If you have a favorite illustration, please share it!

6. What is a theme you like that the comic explores?

7. What do you like about the comic’s story or overall related content?

8. Overall, what do you think the comic’s strengths are?

Don’t feel inspired by the prompts? Feel free to discuss anything else that interested you!

keii’ii (Heart of Keol)

I need to reread/catch up to answer the prompts, but I gotta say this comic absolutely excels at what it does.

Nutty (Court of Roses)

I've been meaning to read this one too, I'll try and set aside some time to!

Delphina

Stoop-Gallants has so much adorable humor and sass, Predictably, Alta is my favorite character; seeing her extremely awkward yet sweet relationship with Mica is my favorite.

Flea is also a sweetheart and I love seeing them learning more about their unpredictable magic and coming to be comfortable with it after avoiding it so long. This page in particular where they finally internalize that they're not a mistake and they're not alone made me tear up a little bit. T_T http://www.thestoopgallants.com/site/tsg/page-547/

RebelVampire

What I like about the beginning of the comic is that it basically opens with accidental necromancy. I think it really just kind of paints the entire tone of the comic, sets the right expectations, and is honestly, just hilariously convoluted. My favorite moment in the comic so far was actually probably the accidental necromancy as well. I love necromancy, and just the way this happens is so hilarious. Plus, I like a lot of the other scenes it ties into, like Maxwell getting mocked for not being able to do any sort of necromancy. In the theme of this trend, my favorite character is Ru. Ru is just adorable and tries his best. I like his overall kind of boyish charms sometimes mixed with his honesty and honestly, just a great friend to everyone. As for characters interacting the most, I probably enjoy seeing Marigold and Alta the most. I really like how their relationship is kind of equal trust and equal wanting to punch the other person in the face. And yet, despite all this, Marigold really sticks by Alta and helps out in the ways only Marigold can. So I just find it to be such an interesting but wholesome relationship. What I like about the art is probably the character designs. I love that there's so many different body shapes, and in particular the heights. I love that some of the characters just basically tower over the others, cause I think that's something people neglect when it comes to fantasy settings in that you can really play around a lot more with those sorts of proportions. So I appreciate seeing it here.

For themes, I like the comic explores what to do when you have a natural talent at something but you don't like that something. I feel this is something we see with Flea, Alta, and Ru. And yet, all three handle it so differently, with Alta accepting, Flea reluctantly dealing with it after fleeing, and Ru going "Nah bro I don't want this." And I really like we get to explore whether our natural talents and destiny can be run from, or if we should just accept it. For the comic's overall story, I like the balance of character conflict vs. world conflict. This is a very character driven comic, but I never feel like the world is being neglected. Like the situation with the king, now the elves. The world is built slowly, but still at a place where you get a feel for where the characters live and how the world they live in affects them. As for the comic's overall strengths, likeable characters. Even when the characters are jerks, there's still something about them where you're like, "Ok I get it." And in turn, you're invested in all their goals, even when those goals are not necessarily something that fit together.

Comic Tea Party

DISCUSSION PROMPTS – PART 2

9. How do you think Mica and Alta’s relationship will progress throughout the story? Will the two continue to blunder through everything, or will things continue to go smoothly? Also, how might Alta’s personal feelings about her career affect them?

10. Do you think Flea will successfully learn to control their magic? If so, how will this change them as a person? All in all, what do you think Flea’s story has to teach us about identity, destiny, and self-acceptance?

11. Will Ru be able to solve his necromancy problem? If so, do you think he’ll be happy about it? How does this all compare to Flea’s tale? Lastly, how will the events of Ru’s story affect Cymonee solving her problem?

12. How will the Consortium’s plans surrounding the king affect the main characters? Will they do something to stop it to achieve their own ends? Additionally, what role do you think Maxwell will play, whether as a “good” guy or “bad” guy?

Don’t feel inspired by the prompts? Feel free to discuss anything else that interested you!

Delphina

@RebelVampire I think this is a really good way of putting it! I also like that Ru's been gradually having to come to terms with the fact that he did what he did and grow from someone who's trying desperately to shed the consequences of the drunken magical mistake he made, and into maybe accepting he's responsible for it and should stand up for the zombie he's affected. I'm so curious to see if the elf kingdom in the current arc is going to have a solution, and if so, if it's a solution he wants to go through with.(edited)

The cast is very big and while I would love to see more Alta and Mica, I think they've gotten some of their big stuff out of the way and can move on with a relatively normal relationship. If the story does revisit them in a more dedicated arc, I would love to see some exploration of Alta's extreme savior complex and how that clashes with her perception of Mica's disability.

Erin Ptah (BICP | Leif & Thorn)

Did a reread recently -- this comic is so good, funny and genre-savvy with smart writing and lovable characters. Can't wait for the Volume 2 Kickstarter.

From the early chapters, I really liked Mica's and Maxwell's weird bond. Seems like they're going to be in different settings following unrelated storylines for a while, but I'm looking forward to when their paths cross again...mostly for Mica's reaction once she gets caught up on the progress of Maxwell's secret-magical-figurehead-coup gambit.

Erin Ptah (BICP | Leif & Thorn)

Also, the whole sequence where Maxwell has to explain "ugh, this stuff depends on an otherwise-useless narrow and restricted concept of 'virginity'". (And Ru has to unpack why he still qualifies...) I think that's the first point where you really feel the contrast between "a fantasy setting with lots of these traditional tropes and formalities" and "characters who feel and react like real people." ...without spoiling anything too specific, Rekhet's whole aesthetic (their fashion sense, their interior design) is the pinnacle of this. It is hard to pick a favorite character, but boy did they shoot waaay up the list almost immediately after their introduction.

Erin Ptah (BICP | Leif & Thorn)

I feel like the first solution Ru gets is gonna be something like "don't worry, we can incinerate your problem into a pile of ash that'll blow away on the wind!" -- and he's going to balk, because he's gotten attached enough that he wants the denizen free, not destroyed. No idea what he's ultimately going to settle on -- I think it'll be something weird and offbeat, not this easy to predict. In the meantime, Denny's antics are great. Especially when there's something plot-relevant or serious going on and it's just bopping around doing its own thing in the background. (And that one scene where they all got into fancy dress, and somebody gave the denizen a bowtie -- priceless. If it started getting a new themed accessory for every scene, I would not complain.)

Erin Ptah (BICP | Leif & Thorn)

Mica seems like she has lots of plans and interests and desires, but hasn't had the time/money/resources to pursue anything more than "reading about them." Meanwhile, Alta is well-traveled, practiced and competent at lots of things, and has the resources to go around offering her services pro bono...but doesn't really like or care about her job, it's just something she fell into because she was good at it. Point being, I hope they'll get into a setup where Mica picks some dreams to follow, and Alta focuses on giving her the support/backing to do it, and then gets to share in Mica's actual enjoyment. And maybe Alta figures out she likes one of these things for its own sake, so they decide to settle down and pursue it together? Or maybe they just keep exploring indefinitely, and it turns out Alta's really into "being the devoted protector while someone else is in charge."

RebelVampire

@Delphina He named the Denizen. Once you name something, there is no going back.

RebelVampire

I feel like even though things are going good between Mica and Alta, that right now were in that happy passionate phase before real issues start to heat and they start to realize theyre kind of two different ppl. So I really think that they're going to increasingly face more and more challenges in that regards. I also think Alta is about to rethink careers, and that will probably make her defocus from building the relationship. I do think Flea will successfully learn magic, and I think in so doing Flea will gain newfound confidence but also just an entire new perspective on who they are and life in general. And I think Flea teaches us that if we continue to reject parts of ourselves, even if we dont like that, that we're just gonna wind up hurting ourselves until we explode and hurt everyone else around us. I also think Flea teaches us that identity is also fluid and that you can, will, and should change and that just cause you change, doesn't mean you aren't who you are. I think Ru will find a solution, but I don't think Ru will act on it. I reiterate in this chat again, once you name something, there is no going back. However, I don't think Ru's choice will help Cymonee. I do think Ru will find other ways to help as a sort of payback for Cymonee sticking with him. However, what I'm most interested here is the comparison so far with Flea. Flea is embracing powers, while Ru isn't. And I find this contrasting journey to be interesting. I mean Ru didn't get no Alta speech about self-acceptance, so I'm wondering how that alone paved the course of events. I feel like the Consortium's plans is what will bring the main cast together again, since they'll either stop the Consortium, or clean up their mess. Since places without a ruling head of government usually don't do so hot. I think Maxwell will serve as the person who tattles in the hopes he can come out on top.

Comic Tea Party

DISCUSSION PROMPTS – PART 3

13. What are you most looking forward to seeing in regards to the comic?

14. Any final words of encouragement for the comic?

Don’t feel inspired by the prompts? Feel free to discuss anything else that interested you!

RebelVampire

I am most looking forward to seeing more of Ru's story, cause I really want to know if he's gonna start self-accepting those necromancy powers of if he really will just react them for all time. As for final words, this a comic with some fantastic characters, has a really unique humor with how the characters conduct themselves,, and all around is definitely a comic that deserves some praise.

snuffysam (Super Galaxy Knights)

I hope that if Ru does choose to accept these necromancy powers, it's because he wants to, not because he has to. Like, I'm hoping he finds a solution to his problem, but he chooses not to go through with it. One thing I'm loving about the current two arcs is that it's given us a chance to go more in depth with these characters. I loved the parts where the whole gang was together as a group, but this just gives us a chance to see these relationships flourish. Though, I do hope we see more Marigold soon, plus some other side characters like Maxwell. All in all, I really love this comic, and I can't wait to see where it goes next!

Comic Tea Party

BOOK CLUB END!

Thank you everyone so much for reading and chatting about The Stoop-Gallants this week! Please also give a special thank you to MJ Alexander and WW Rose for volunteering the comic and creating it! If you liked The Stoop-Gallants, make sure to continue to support it via some of the links below!

Read and Comment: http://www.thestoopgallants.com/site/

The Stoop-Gallants’ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/snartha

The Stoop-Gallants’ Store: https://www.redbubble.com/people/snartha/shop

The Stoop-Gallants’ Twitter: https://twitter.com/snartha

#ctparchive #comics #webcomics #indie comics #comic chat #comic discussion #book club #bookclub #webcomic book club #webcomic bookclub #comic tea party #ctp #the stoop gallants #the stoop-gallants #mj alexander #ww rose

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cooperhewitt · 6 years ago

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Surtout de Table: Sustenance of Political Power

(Fig. 1)

Surtout de Table (Table centerpiece), France, ca. 1810 Pierre-Philippe Thomire (French, 1751–1843) Cast and gilded bronze with hand engraving, cut glass, silvered mirrored glass Bequest of the Reverend Alfred Duane Pell, 1991-31-1-a/ww

The changing fashions in dining, ranging from the time of day of the main meal, to its location, who was included, and how people entertained all contributed to the creation of a vast array of vessels and table decorations from the late seventeenth through the nineteenth centuries. In the seventeenth century, a large house normally would have a great hall with a long refectory table. The social hierarchy of the household and guests determined who ate where, with the house owner or lord sitting at one end and the staff either at the other end or at another table in the same hall. Entertaining was usually in the form of a dessert banquet, where sugar sculptures and other fancy sweets were arranged in elaborate patterns on the banqueting table, generally a long, straight table. Royalty dined at such tables, facing people who were invited to observe them.

After the death of Louis XIV in France in 1715, the younger court of the Regency period and Louis XV spent far more time in the more intimate spaces of Paris than in Versailles. With the increased emphasis on privacy and smaller domestic spaces in the early eighteenth century came the dining room, with smaller, often oval, tables. The objects that sat on these tables would have featured dishes of arranged food for the main course as the primary decoration along with possible sugar or porcelain figurines; silver, brass, or porcelain candlesticks or candelabra; flatware; and glasses.

With the French Revolution of 1789, dining changed again. The intimacy of the private dining room became negatively associated with the frivolity of lifestyle attributed to the ancien régime. Once again, longer rectangular tables came back into fashion. By this time, the idea of eating in staggered courses, known as service à la russe, was coming into fashion, enabling the table to have more room for inedible display objects and lighting. The most elaborate of table display objects was the surtout de table, which was a large centerpiece with mirrored plateaus and numerous candelabra and other possible display pieces on top, all to reflect and give more light and sparkle to an important occasion.

(Fig. 2) Painting, The Wedding Banquet of Napoleon I and Marie-Louise in the Grand Salon of the Tuileries Palace, 2 April 1810, 1812, Alexandre-Benoit-Jean Dufay, Casanova, Musée National du Château de Fontainebleau

In a painting of the sumptuous wedding of Napoleon and his second wife Marie-Louise in 1812 (Fig. 2), the surtout de table is arranged much as the one in Cooper Hewitt’s collection (Fig. 1). This not only gives an idea of how this object was used, but the level of the commission. Indeed, the history that was passed down from the donor is that this surtout was a present from Napoleon to his stepson Eugène de Beauharnais. This is a plausible story, not only because Pierre-Philippe Thomire, the designer and maker of this gilt-bronze work,[1] became “Gilt bronze maker to the Emperor” in 1809, but because he is responsible for several similar examples made for Napoleon to give to his mother, sisters, and a few of his marshals.[2] Recent examinations of Eugène’s inventories have revealed more than one surtout among his possessions.[3] In 1816 house accounts under “extraordinary and unexpected expenses” are costs for moving two large “surtouts de table” to his house in Munich. The surtouts had been sent to Thomire Duterme and Ciev from Eugène’s house in Paris for re-gilding, missing pieces, and other furnishings including artificial flowers at a cost of 2816 Francs.[4]

Although Thomire learned his bronze-working skills from his father in the foundry and his chasing and gilding from Louis XVI’s chief bronze maker Pierre Gouthière (1732–1813), he survived the change in patronage caused by the French Revolution by allying himself with both furniture makers for whom he made mounts in the neoclassical style favored by Napoleon and by purchasing a decorating firm that was a supplier to Napoleon’s palaces. The motifs used appear elsewhere in Napoleonic interiors as well as in other fashionable articles. The Three Graces, seen holding a basket for fruit (Fig. 3), are adapted from ancient Greek models or Roman interpretations of them. These comparisons to antiquity greatly appealed to Napoleon as he looked for models to compare himself with the emperors and rulers of ancient eras.

(Fig. 3) Detail of the Three Graces

Detail of surtout de table

Sarah Coffin is the former curator and head of Product Design and Decorative Arts at Cooper Hewitt. This essay was originally publish in Making Design, the handbook to the collection of Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum.

Footnotes

[1] D. H. Cohen, “Pierre Thomire-Unternehmer und Künstler,” Vergoldete Bronzen, II, Hans Ottomeyer (München: Klinkhardt & Biermann, 1986).

[2] Sir Pierson Dixon, “French Empire Clocks in the British Embassy at Paris,” Connoisseur Vol. 150 (January 1968): 2–9. The embassy was formerly the house of Napoleon’s sister, Pauline Borghese, from whom the Duke of Wellington arranged to purchase the house and contents for the British as an embassy in 1814 after the abdication of Napoleon. The one made for her remained there.

[3] I am indebted to Ulrich Leben for this information, as I am for the citation in endnote 4.

[4] (0643/B 120) Maison du Prince Eugène, Eugène de Beauharnais papers, Firestone Library, Princeton University.

from Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum https://ift.tt/2oHBfLV via IFTTT

#cooper hewitt #design conversations

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24hourchampagnediet-blog1 · 5 years ago

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Hello Fresh vs. Blue Apron

New Post has been published on https://bestrawfoodrecipes.com/hello-fresh-vs-blue-apron/

Hello Fresh vs. Blue Apron

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Fresh N’ Lean will send you a week’s worth of organic meals every Friday. Or, choose a one-time order to test it out. Meal plans are centered around different eating styles: keto, plant-based, paleo, low carb, and high protein; all produce is organic, and all meat is grass-fed or sustainably sourced.

Note: If you’re going the organic route for environmental reasons, it’s worth noting that all of these deliveries require way more packaging than regular ol’ cooking does; something to keep in mind if you’re trying to reduce your carbon footprint.

Tester says: “The portions are on the smaller side, so I wouldn’t count on just one of these after a long run, but they’re a great way to fuel beforehand without feeling weighed down. You’ll need to add your own spices if you like a little kick.”

Best for Athletes: Kettlebell Kitchen

Kettlebell Kickboxing

Cooking required: no Average time needed: 2 to 4 minutes in the microwave, 6 to 8 minutes in the oven Price: $8.95 per meal

Choose from ten different meal plans, including one specifically designed for endurance athletes. You can get hyper personal with your meal plan, too: Include your weight-loss goals, calorie targets, exercise of choice, and frequency of exercise, then the nutritionist-driven algorithm spits out options you can edit based on your taste preferences.

Tester says: “The meals were more filling than similar ones from other companies, and there was a lot to choose from on the site. I definitely suggest adding a side of sweet potato mash to your cart.” Another tester loved the added flavor of the pre-portioned sauces (think: chimichurri and pesto) and found the meals to taste as close to home-cooked as you can get from a microwaveable meal.

Best for Convenience: Luvo

Luvo

Cooking required: no Average time needed: less than 5 minutes Price: $4.49 per meal

Many meal delivery services send food portioned out for couples or families, but Luvo makes it easy to order as many single meals as you (or your family’s) heart desires. They’re also sold in Target and Wegmans (plus Walmart this August) if you forget to place your order online and just. can’t. wait. The most popular meals include: Roasted Cauliflower Mac and ’Cheese, Orange Mango Chicken Bowl, and Chicken Meatballs in Tomato Basil Sauce with Penne.

Tester says: “The four-minute meals really came in handy during a stressful week at work. I especially loved the Mediterranean Kale Gnocchi, which gave me the carbs my stress levels needed—without the crash.”

Best for Weight Loss: Blue Apron x WW

Blue Apron

Cooking required: yes Average time needed: 30 minutes Price: $9.99 per serving plus shipping

Blue Apron teamed up with WW (formally known as Weight Watchers) for a meal kit that truly takes the guesswork out of healthy eating. Meals range from zero to 15 points in the WW SmartPoints system, and they’re all developed with input from registered dietitians.

Tester says: “I didn’t love the excess packaging, but I could tell the fish was high quality, the serving size was decent (and I’m a 165-pound guy who had just gotten back from a fast 20-mile bike ride), and the spice mix made the meal flavorful.”

Best for Vegetarians/Vegans: Purple Carrot

Purple Carrot

Cooking required: yes Average time needed: 30 minutes Price: $72 for two servings for three nights a week

Purple Carrot is for those who love plants as much as they love variety. The company is committed to never repeating a recipe the entire year and every single one is vegan. Popular meals include a vegan twist on the lobster roll (made with hearts of palm) and a “Philly cheesesteak” made with seitan and vegan mozzarella.

Tester says: “I liked trying new plant-based recipes—like beet tacos, which I somehow never thought to make before!—but the lunches made me feel a little lazy. I don’t quite need every sandwich ingredient, including two slices of bread, sent directly to my door when I can just whip up a sandwich on the fly using whatever’s in my fridge. IMO, that’s the beauty of a sandwich!”

Best for Families: HelloFresh

HelloFresh

Cooking required: yes Average time needed: 30 – 60 minutes Price: $14.99 per meal

Lots of meal kits are made for two, but HelloFresh has a family option that makes it easy to whip up healthy meals for the whole household (kits feed two to four people).

Of course, like Blue Apron and Purple Carrot, there is cooking involved. So, if you find that you enjoy spending time in the kitchen, you may soon graduate to cooking the old-fashioned way—with a recipe, a grocery store run, and a prayer. When that happens, try their recipe database for DIY ideas.

Tester says: “Some of the meals took more time than my usual dinner would (wontons!), but they were generally worth it (again: wontons!), and the easy-to-follow recipes made me feel a little more confident in the kitchen.”

Best for Keto Devotees: Green Chef

Green Chef

Cooking required: yes Average time needed: 30 to 40 minutes Price: $10.99 per meal

You don’t need us to tell you that following a keto plan can be difficult, but Green Chef (HelloFresh’s more diet-driven sister company) makes it easy with meal plans made for high-fat, low-carb dieters (there are pescatarian, paleo, and gluten-free options, too, plus family plans similar to those of HelloFresh).

Tester says: “Tasty sides, like couscous and chopped beets, made each meal feel well-rounded and not-at-all depriving. Big fan of the salmon.”

Kiera Carter Kiera is a writer, editor, and digital strategist, focusing primarily on women’s issues, travel, fitness, food, beauty, and relationships.

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fuckyeahtattoogirls-blog1 · 5 years ago

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Hello Fresh vs. Blue Apron

New Post has been published on https://bestrawfoodrecipes.com/hello-fresh-vs-blue-apron/

Hello Fresh vs. Blue Apron

Best for Organic Food: Fresh N’ Lean

Fresh N’ Lean

Cooking required: no Average time needed: 4 minutes in the microwave Price: $9.33 per meal

Best for Athletes: Kettlebell Kitchen

Kettlebell Kickboxing

Cooking required: no Average time needed: 2 to 4 minutes in the microwave, 6 to 8 minutes in the oven Price: $8.95 per meal

Best for Convenience: Luvo

Luvo

Cooking required: no Average time needed: less than 5 minutes Price: $4.49 per meal

Best for Weight Loss: Blue Apron x WW

Blue Apron

Cooking required: yes Average time needed: 30 minutes Price: $9.99 per serving plus shipping

Best for Vegetarians/Vegans: Purple Carrot

Purple Carrot

Cooking required: yes Average time needed: 30 minutes Price: $72 for two servings for three nights a week

Best for Families: HelloFresh

HelloFresh

Cooking required: yes Average time needed: 30 – 60 minutes Price: $14.99 per meal

Lots of meal kits are made for two, but HelloFresh has a family option that makes it easy to whip up healthy meals for the whole household (kits feed two to four people).

Best for Keto Devotees: Green Chef

Green Chef

Cooking required: yes Average time needed: 30 to 40 minutes Price: $10.99 per meal

Tester says: “Tasty sides, like couscous and chopped beets, made each meal feel well-rounded and not-at-all depriving. Big fan of the salmon.”

Kiera Carter Kiera is a writer, editor, and digital strategist, focusing primarily on women’s issues, travel, fitness, food, beauty, and relationships.

Source link Keto Diet Dinner Ideas

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ladystylestores · 4 years ago

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Unpacking How Karl Lagerfeld’s 2004 H&M Collaboration Changed Fashion – WWD

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“It would have been super easy for Karl to say ‘no.’ The surprise was that he said ‘yes,’” Caroline Lebar, the late Karl Lagerfeld’s longtime communications director, marveled this week, recalling that day in 2004 when the designer agreed to design a one-off collection for low-cost Swedish fashion chain H&M.

“Cheap” had a real sting then, and Lagerfeld silenced it, making the incredulity of a collaboration between one of the world’s most acclaimed couturiers and a mass-market chain a leitmotif of an unforgettable advertising video. “Is it true?” a plump, indignant man shouted to Lagerfeld across a crowded restaurant when he learns of the tie-up. “Of course it’s true,” Lagerfeld shoots back. “But it’s cheap,” the man implores. “What a depressing word. It’s all about taste,” Lagerfeld replies dryly. “If you’re cheap, nothing helps.”

The chance to buy $49 blouses and $129 sequined tuxedo jackets from one of the most famous designers on the planet not only unleashed retail pandemonium — it had a seismic effect on the entire fashion system: breaking down barriers between luxury and mass; democratizing design in a new way, and foreshadowing an era of rampant collaborations, drops and pop-up concepts.

It would also catapult the image of H&M, creating a new annual selling bonanza that endures still, and it would ultimately inspire the template for Lagerfeld to relaunch his brand in 2012 in the then-burgeoning “masstige” zone, convinced his sweet spot was affordable clothing for a wide audience.

The big bang that the Lagerfeld for H&M project unleashed is also a reminder that instinct and daring should not be underestimated — or discarded in an era of influencer marketing, big data and AI.

Lebar said Lagerfeld kept an eye on everything, was always open-minded and rarely said “no” by reflex. While he had never visited an H&M store himself, the designer noticed young people in his studio wearing its clothes, and he knew it eclipsed all other fashion brands in terms of its mighty distribution network, then numbering about 1,000 stores in 19 countries.

“The surprise at that time came from a fast-fashion brand, so we should be very careful about what could be next,” she mused.

Lebar stressed that H&M was a “personal project” not associated with Lagerfeld’s signature fashion business, then operating under the Lagerfeld Gallery moniker with an ultra-exclusive, rarefied approach to ready-to-wear headquartered at one boutique on Rue de Seine in Paris.

Yet the designer reasoned that a sketch for a Chanel couture dress, Fendi fur coat, Lagerfeld Gallery blazer or H&M shirt involved the same process, cost and effort — the design component being the most important. He proved “that fast-fashion can also be creative,” Lebar said.

“Karl had never done mass market — and he loved a challenge,” recalled Eric Pfrunder, who worked closely with Lagerfeld on all his photography and collaborations. “He proved he could do an elegant line, but less expensive. I still have the shirts he made for H&M.”

The H&M project magnified Lagerfeld’s fame, as he based the coed range on his emphatic and graphic personal style, hinged on high-collared shirts and lean black tailoring. H&M even included his fingerless driving gloves and a T-shirt bearing a sketch of his face.

A t-shirt part of the collection Courtesy of H&M

Margareta van den Bosch, creative adviser at H&M and Lagerfeld’s key contact there, said the collaboration with the designer replaced what was typically an underwear campaign for November.

“It was something really new. Karl understood that, and he was the first one,” she said in an interview this week. “We learned a lot from this collaboration.”

Van den Bosch said the teaser campaign, including billboards featuring Lagerfeld and model Erin Wasson, was an innovative element that propelled swift sellouts.

Not only did H&M learn that it was best to launch such designer capsules in fewer stores, it ultimately gave the chain the confidence to flex its own design muscles, launching its own Studio and Conscious collections, the former with big Paris runway shows, alongside the high-profile collaborations.

“Now we have different price levels in our stores,” van den Bosch said. Meanwhile, H&M soldiers on with its annual holiday collaboration and will reveal its 2020 one soon.

Margareta van den Bosch and Karl Lagerfeld Courtesy of H&M

“The press is maybe a little tired of it. The customer is not. Nobody wants it to stop,” she said.

A lesser known, yet pivotal figure in the groundbreaking collaboration was art director Donald Schneider, who now runs his own creative agency in Berlin. Here, his account of the project, and how it changed the fashion world:

WWD: Can you recount how it all happened?

Donald Schneider: I still remember it all very clearly — those adrenaline-pumping nine months in 2004, working day and night with Karl and H&M helping to give birth to that legendary first designer collaboration.

At that time my creative agency, Donald Schneider Studio, was based in Paris and H&M was one of our clients for whom I was regularly art directing campaigns. I liked what they stood for, always thinking so big and modern, and their inspiring legacy of outstanding campaigns.

So one day in late 2003 I was in Stockholm again for meetings with H&M, having lunch with the-then marketing director Jörgen Andersson and the-then creative director Janne Nord. They were mentioning that this same morning they had received the results of an extensive survey on H&M by a respected consulting firm and that its conclusion was that H&M should surprise with a big new idea.

That challenge instantly tickled my mind and I spontaneously came up with an idea: How about inviting a high-fashion designer to design a special collection for H&M and create a surprising campaign around that? That would generate a buzz around a collection in a totally new way by putting the big name behind that, instead of H&M’s regular supermodel-in-the-campaign approach. They were completely surprised by this idea. Back then it was unthinkable to mix these two completely separate worlds — high fashion and retail.

A few days later Andersson called me and said that he very much liked my idea and that H&M wants to go for it. This was amazing news! In order to create a bombshell, I proposed we should try to get the king of high fashion, Karl Lagerfeld. Jörgen agreed. So I called Karl and asked him if he knows H&M — “Of course, all my assistants are wearing it!” Lagerfeld reported — and if he would be interested in designing a special collection for them. “Yes!,” Karl said. “The future will only be about high and low. Everything else in between will disappear. The high I already have with Chanel and this would be perfect to get the low.“ That was it! Karl instinctively went for it. He only had one question: “Have you asked somebody else for this, too, or am I the first one?“ “You’re the first one,” I told him. And Karl said, “OK, then let’s do it!”

A backstage image of Karl Lagerfeld shooting the campaign Courtesy of H&M

WWD: Was there a particular business imperative from H&M that this project fulfilled?

D.S.: H&M had a stellar success in the Eighties and Nineties. They were the hottest fashion retailer. But by the late Nineties competitors had caught up. So H&M needed some sort of a big bang to further establish its leading position. And this first designer collaboration with Karl Lagerfeld in 2004 did that magic.

Of course going into this, there was no precedent to follow, no blueprint. We had to invent everything on this project while doing it. For example, up until then campaigns had always launched simultaneously with when the products became available in the stores. So we instead invented a countdown strategy for actually building up hype before, putting the campaign out in the days and weeks before. Even actually launching the collection on the same day in all countries was an almost impossible logistic stumbling block. But we did it, it was incredible teamwork, H&M fearlessly believing in it and throwing all its weight behind it.

WWD: Describe the context at the time. How popular were collaborations then?

D.S.: There maybe had been some small local collaborations before, I don’t know. But for sure nobody had ever taken it to this massive scale. And don’t forget, this was before the rise of e-commerce and social media. The phrase “capsule collection” was not common yet, neither putting an X between two names.

Also, Karl had just completely reinvented his persona, just completed his diet to fit into Hedi Slimane’s skinny Dior suits, started wearing lots of Chrome Heart jewelry, several rings on every finger — Karl the rock star! It was the perfect moment to have Karl himself starring in our campaign, I thought. But I knew he doesn’t like to be photographed, so I asked him to be the photographer himself and to shoot the campaign images as self-portraits, him wearing the men’s looks and standing next to model Erin Wasson in the women’s looks. For inspiration I showed him some sketches and mood photos, also some from an old Richard Avedon self portrait-shooting, him together with Marilyn Monroe. Karl loved this direction.

WWD: Did he have to get the permission of Chanel and Fendi to proceed? Or anyone else?

D.S.: No, he didn’t have to ask anybody for permission. Karl said that he has a contract for life with Chanel and can do whatever he wants in his own name.

WWD: The ad campaign played off the incredulity of a luxury name meeting cheap chic. Were you expecting some resistance in the marketplace to this new concept?

D.S.: We wanted to surprise and astonish — doing what nobody had dared before, mixing high and low, making luxury fashion available to everybody. Don’t forget in 2004 it was simply unthinkable that fashion could become democratized one day, the word “collaboration“ was not yet part of fashion’s everyday language. It was clear to us that not everybody would be pleased with this. As you can imagine there was lots of resistance and skepticism from all different sides, also from some journalists. I also remember when I let my Parisian agent into our secret, he was in shock and completely disapproved of it. He thought that this will destroy fashion.

Karl Lagerfeld’s sketches for the collection Courtesy of H&M

WWD: Was there any nervousness on the H&M side? The Karl side? How risky was it?

D.S.: During the whole project, while working in total secrecy, we could feel that we’re on to something very big. But of course we all had our moments of doubts, even Karl. The morning of the launch, Nov. 12, 2004, 4 a.m. his time in Paris, he called me on my portable. It was 10 p.m. in New York where I was for another shooting. And he was very nervous: “What will we do if nobody shows up today at the stores?“

WWD: Karl liked to be first with things. Why do you think that was so important to him?

D.S.: Karl loved to surprise. He immediately grasped that this is the opportunity to catapult him into the forefront of everything. To break down the borders between luxury fashion and retail. To make him the designer who proved that looking chic is no longer a question of money. After all, it was Karl Lagerfeld for H&M that made Karl into the absolute superstar!

WWD: In what way or ways did it change fashion? How did it affect notions of brand elasticity?

D.S.: This one bang pushed open the door to what’s still thriving in fashion today. Just think of Virgil Abloh at Louis Vuitton, coming from streetwear being nabbed by high luxury and his own penchant for collaborating at all levels, from Ikea to diamond jewelry. Or think of Moncler Genius and its extremely successful serial collaborations.

WWD: What can we learn from this today?

D.S.: The origin of every big shift is a creative idea. Today I too often hear, “We need to find out what the customer wants, follow data, algorithm, consulting firms, Excel sheets.” But come on. If back then in 2004 we would have done a customer survey, no customer would have wished for a Karl Lagerfeld-designed collection from H&M. Therefore my callout for today: Let’s give more empowerment to creative ideas and visions; let’s surprise and dare.

See More from WWD:

Karl Lagerfeld Changed the Fashion Industry Forever

Karl Was the Ultimate Industry Role Model

Video: Remembering Karl Lagerfeld’s Prolific Fashion Career

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dippedanddripped · 5 years ago

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Vashtie is one of those creatives you can’t help but envy — rather than talking about the things she’s going to do, she goes out and does them. When she looked around in the early 2000s and didn’t see the world she wanted to see, she went out and created it for herself.

Growing up, her older brother would share with her his wild stories about ’90s New York. So when she finally moved there, she had some high expectations. Unfortunately, the culture she found was very different from what his stories had espoused. So, she she took things into her own hands; she started her own party, launched a clothing line and made a series of music videos — effectively shaping the community to match her early vision.

Back then sneaker culture wasn’t as pervasive with girls as it is now. However Vashtie, an OG Jordan-wearing tomboy, had the foresight to make her clothing line, VIOLETTE unisex at a time when such a thing was still rather alien. She was also the first girl to design a Jordan, an honor she still holds dear.

These days, she’s deejaying top-billed parties and keeping it 100 with her blog. WW caught up with this nightlife darling to discuss all her accomplishments, and how she manages to balance so much creative energy in a changing world.

Tell me about your style. You were a pioneer of women appreciating streetwear. I was always into streetwear and sneakers at a time when that wasn’t very common. The streetwear world was much smaller than it is now. Girls didn’t commonly wear sneakers or Jordans going anywhere; being a tomboy was really not okay — especially in New York City. I was always sort of dressed that way and so I stood out. I worked at Stussy, which was owned by James Jebbia (who started Supreme). So I was in that world — wearing Supreme in ’99.

I can’t even imagine no one wearing that stuff today! You have so many creative outlets; how did you get into all these different things? It’s a long story; I came to New York in 1999 to study film at the School of Visual Arts, specifically directing and cinematography. When I graduated school I was shopping around my reel looking for directing work, so I did a lot of smaller jobs here and there. Then I got asked to be Creative Director at Island Def Jam, did that for a year, but ultimately left because I wanted to pursue other personal projects. In 2007, I started directing more videos — I directed Justin Bieber’s first video, I worked with Kendrick Lamar, Solange.

You worked with a lot of people who later did very well for themselves. I was friends with a lot of people who were unknown at the time but are now big names. Around 2008 I was also writing for my blog, which was a fun way for me to connect with people. I was friends with Cudi, who was also unknown to the world at that time. On my blog I would just share random going-out stories and things like that. Then in 2010, I became the first girl to design a Jordan, again because I was sort of known as the girl who loved Jordans and wore Jordans. I started doing my own party in 2006 called 1992. It was featured in i-D and New York Times; we were flown to Paris and Amsterdam to do the party. A Tribe Called Quest asked me to help him with his party, and then we started doing this party every Friday night at Santa’s. Drake actually shouted me out recently on his song, “Walk It Like I Talk It.” He says, “With Vashtie at Santa’s,” because he used to come to that party. I’ve had collaborations with Puma, I did two collections of footwear and apparel; I did a G-Shock collaboration; I’ve deejayed for Madonna, Drake, Chance the Rapper, Dior.

I’m interested in this party, 1992. Tell me more about it. We started it in 2006. At the time New York City had kind of adopted this VIP, dress-code thing, whereas in the ’90s it wasn’t necessarily that way. Club culture went from being fun and creative to something else. I was too young to really experience the ’90s, but club-kid culture was something I was drooling over. So when I finally got to New York and wanted to go to a fun club, the club was VIP; there was a dress code and bottle service. So 1992 was sort of against that, wanting to create a space that was in celebration of the ’90s, but also welcoming to everyone who came.

Where are you from? Albany, New York — upstate.

So you were really close to all of it and knew about it. My brother was also eight years older than me, gay and into voguing and club-kid culture. He would go to New York on the weekends and tell me all the stories about Michael Alig, the Limelight and that really had an influence on me.

It seems like the ’90s was the last time when there was really an iconic place that everybody went to go dancing, and now it’s turned into parties. You must have seen New York change quite a bit. How do you feel about nightlife in NYC now? You know, I’ve grown to be a more positive person, so the way I see it now, I’m really accepting of how it is now. For a long time I was really sad. I think that we’re getting somehow a little closer to what New York was like in the ’90s; back then it wasn’t all so segregated, I knew straight boys who would go to gay clubs because they liked the music or whatever. It wasn’t this weird thing where it was like, you can’t go there because those people go there. I grew up when there was a stigma about being a person of color in the wrong place or LGBTQ. Whereas now I’ll talk to people who will just show up for a rock show or a young person who doesn’t necessarily identify with the queer community is like, “What’s the big deal if I hang out here?” You know? In that essence, I feel like right now it’s inclusive in a very positive way. As far as club culture goes, it’s now a money-making machine; there’s not that fun aspect anymore. Even if there is a fun party, they have to travel around. There isn’t a home base club that represents that wonderland of sorts. Santa’s is the last place I can think of; it was close to the Financial District. It was just a fun place; you could go for a reggae party, a house party, always something different.

Nightlife has such an interesting place in the creative industries, how do you feel about that? What is your take on nightlife’s connection to other creative fields? I always wanted to be an artist when I was a kid, and I think that even when I looked back on it — and I’ve never really thought about this until now — but the artists I always loved were intertwined with nightlife, like Andy Warhol and Madonna. I remember seeing artists like that on MTV when I was a kid. I knew Andy Warhol would go to Studio 54 or Madonna would go to Webster Hall and had her Bedtime Stories release party there — I remember MTV broadcasting that. Also, I find that artists are usually nocturnal. So there’s this connection too where you can meet with other creatives. There’s a lot of collaboration. I’ve met a lot of artists in a nightclub that I ended up working with or just making connections with in business. Nightlife is a relief in a way. It’s a judgment-free zone. It’s where you go to dance and have fun.

Tell me more about VIOLETTE. The brand really started from me being a tomboy and wanting to see clothes that I would wear. I would always be wearing men’s clothing. I wanted to create a brand that was unisex. I was designing the shirts myself, printing them and shipping them myself. There weren’t many representing my style at the time. Then through that I did the Jordan collaboration. It’s evolved in a really nice way.

I’m kind of confused about what it actually means to be a deejay. How would you describe the art of deejaying, other than just picking songs? Let me just clarify, there are a lot of deejays, and a lot of not-so-experienced deejays. I won’t say good or bad because I don’t like those terms, but there are all kinds of deejays. There are deejays who just randomly pick songs and play them, there are those who will hit play and are not actually deejaying. A real deejay is someone who knows how to mix from song to song, who can read the psychology of the room. If I go to a hip-hop club I know I should play hip hop, which is an easy gig. Most up-and-coming deejays know that playing trap music is the easiest thing of all time, but to play a crowd takes more. I recently did a Tommy Hilfiger fashion week event where there were so many different kinds of people in the room, including the people from the company, and a lot of them. You know, like Tommy Hilfiger himself was there. And they have said that they love rock music and classics. So if you’re in a room with Nicki Minaj and Tommy Hilfiger, what do you play? You want to satisfy everyone. For me, I love music. I have a deep connection with music, but also I know a lot of music, so I know that I can play Fleetwood Mac. I can also play Tom Petty, along with a lot of other things that will satisfy the room. So for me it’s about knowing music, knowing how to blend music. A lot of deejays don’t blend, they just go from song to song and disrupt the crowd. There’s also tech that you need to know within deejaying. Ultimately my job is to make the crowd feel good and get people dancing.

#vashtie #tomboy fashion #VIOLETTE.#djs #streetwear blog #fashion blog #urban fashion blog #urbanwear blog #womens streetwear

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makemoneyonlineprofit-blog · 6 years ago

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Store Floor Plans 101: How to Create a Winning Retail Layout for Your Shop

https://120profit.com/?p=1466&utm_source=SocialAutoPoster&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=Tumblr A well-designed and properly executed store plan can encourage product discovery, create a wonderful experience, and ultimately generate more sales. That’s why if you haven’t reviewed or refreshed your retail layout or floor plan in a while, you should seriously consider doing so, particularly as we approach the new year. Follow the pointers and best practices below to ensure that your store’s floor plan showcases your products in the best possible light: 1. Use the right type of retail floor plan for your store First things first. What exactly are kinds of floor plans you can have? To help answer that, here’s a rundown of some of the common ones in retail: Straight floor plan The straight floor plan positions your shelves or racks in straight lines, creating aisles that shoppers on which can move. This type of floor plan favors function over beauty. It’s used to hold products on shelves and make them easy to find, as opposed to encouraging “discovery” or showcasing the latest trends. The straight floor plan is also one of the most economical store layouts and is mostly used in supermarkets and in stores that primarily use shelving to showcase their merchandise. Racetrack or loop plan When using a racetrack or loop plan, you position your fixtures and merchandise in such a way that they create a path to guide shoppers around your shop. The racetrack or loop floor plan is a good option if you have a small store and/or you want to encourage shoppers to take a particular path when browsing your shop. For example, if you want to “lead” customers around your space, vs having them move in various directions, then you can use a racetrack store layout to encourage that behavior. Angular floor plan This floor plan uses curves and angles to give off a sophisticated vibe. According to the Houston Chronicle, the angular floor plan is usually adopted by high-end retailers and it “reduces the amount of display area you have but focuses instead on fewer, more popular lines.” This layout is ideal if you sell a lot of unique and attractive merchandise. As such, the angular floor plan for drawing attention to individual products. If your store sells a few, curated pieces, then this floor plan could be the best way to go. Geometric floor plan The geometric floor plan utilizes racks and fixtures to showcase products, which makes it popular among retailers that sell apparel and accessories. Go with this layout if you need to use racks, shelves, and other fixtures to showcase your merchandise. This is quite popular with apparel and accessories retailers. Free flow plan Don’t want to limit yourself to a specific floor plan? A free flow layout affords you the most creativity. You’re not restricted to floor patterns or shelves that have to be placed at certain angles. And unlike the other layouts, you’re not prodding people to use a path around your store; instead, shoppers are encouraged to browse and go in any direction. Now that you have an idea of the best type of floor plan for your business, let’s move on to tips that can help you make the most out of your store’s layout. 2. Plan your layout based on how shoppers move and behave Fact: people have a natural tendency to turn either left or right when entering a retail store. Studies suggest that the predisposition on which direction to turn depends on the country’s vehicle driving patterns. This means that shoppers who drive on the left side of the road (i.e., Japan, the UK, Australia, etc.) would typically turn left when entering a store, while consumers in the countries that drive on the right side of the (such as the US) have a stronger tendency to turn right and move in a counter-clockwise direction. For this reason, it’s important that you consider which direction your shoppers turn when they walk into your shop, so you can design your store accordingly. For instance, if you know that your customers have a tendency to turn right, then you’ll want to display your best products or new arrivals on the front-right part of your store. Take a look around your existing layout and ask yourself: is it optimized for your customers’ natural tendencies? Do they see your freshest and most noteworthy merchandise when they walk in? If not, then it’s time to make a change. 3. Map your store Mapping out your store — i.e., literally creating a map — enables you to see what your store would look like on paper, so you can have a better idea of how traffic would flow and where products should go. Not to mention, it’s a lot easier to make changes and move stuff around when your ideas are still on paper, versus physically executing them in-store. And fortunately for you, it’s a lot easier these days to map out your store. Floor plan tools such as SmartDraw and Smartsheet are just a few examples of solutions that give you floor plan creation tools at affordable prices. (SmartDraw’s prices start at $5.95 per month, while Smartsheet has prices as low as $14 per month.) And if you’re looking for inspiration, a quick search on Pinterest will give numerous results. Here are few noteworthy ones that we’ve found: Here’s a Diesel floor plan which maps out where shelves and fixtures would go and how they should be positioned: And here’s another floor plan example, this time for kids’ store. In addition to showing the positioning of the racks and fixtures, it also gives us a clear idea of which products would go where. 4. Keep your decompression zone clear We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: don’t put your key merchandise in your decompression zone. In case you don’t already know, your decompression zone is the first few feet of your store, right after your entrance. This the area of the store where people coming from outside would “decompress” and adjust to their new surroundings. Because of this, shoppers are typically distracted when they’re in this zone and will likely overlook any products you place here. Retail experts Rich Kizer and Georganne Bender recommend that you keep this space open and uncluttered. “Floor signs, baskets, class schedules, etc. belong just beyond your Decompression Zone where shoppers are more likely to see them.” 5. Put a healthy amount of space between merchandise and fixtures It’s important that you put ample space between the different elements of your store (i.e., products, shelves, and other fixtures) so that people can move around with ease. From a design perspective, having a good amount of space in your store makes it look more attractive. Plus, since space equals luxury in retail, putting ample space between the elements of your shop increases the perceived value of your products. Now, if you’re catering to budget consumers then you can certainly get away with having relatively crowded shelves. Just make your store too crowded. You want to have enough space in your store so that customers can pass by without bumping into each other. Otherwise, you could subject them to the dreaded “butt-brush effect,” an occurrence where shoppers would abandon a display or product after being bumped once or twice from behind. Paco Underhill, author of the book “Why We Buy,” described an experiment that shows the butt-brush effect in action. He wrote: While reviewing the tape to study how shoppers negotiated the doorway during busy times, we began to notice something weird about the tie rack. Shoppers would approach it, stop and shop until they were bumped once or twice by people heading into or out of the store. After a few such jostles, most of the shoppers would move out of the way, abandoning their search for neckwear. We watched this over and over until it seemed clear that shoppers — women especially, though it was also true of men to a lesser extent — don’t like being brushed or touched from behind. They’ll even move away from merchandise they’re interested in to avoid it. 6. Create speed bumps As the term clearly states, speed bumps curtail the speed of shoppers as they move around your store. They encourage people to slow down and check out products on and around these bumps. Speed bumps can come in the form of tabletop displays that contain unique products. During the holiday season, for example, Target set up speed bump displays throughout the store which showcased popular gift items. These displays did a great job in slowing down shoppers as they navigated between departments. Speed bumps can also be displays or setups that encourage people to use their hands. Aerie, for example, once installed a bouquet making station in its store at the Cerritos mall. Whatever type of speed bump you create, keep the following best practices in mind: Use great lighting. A speed bump is meant to slow down customers, but it won’t do a good job of that if it’s displayed under dull or unflattering light. Accent lighting is recommended. Accordingto retail enthusiast Karen WW, it’s best to use display stands with lockable wheels. According to her, this will “make it easier for you to move things around frequently without a lot of effort.” She also echoes Nicole Reyhle and Jason Prescott’s advice in Retail 101 where they recommend having “about 5 speeds bumps for every 500 square feet of retail space.” 7. Go beyond your merchandise… think about the experience! When designing your store, you go beyond simply thinking about where and how products should be displayed; be sure make room for experiences. You could, for example, dedicate a space for product testing. Skincare retailer Aesop, does this extremely well in their stores. Most (if not all) of Aesop’s locations have special areas where people can test their different products. Meanwhile, the Gymboree store at the Del Amo Fashion Center created a coloring station for kids, to keep the little ones busy while parents pick out clothes or pay for their orders. Other shops have spaces specifically for community events or face to face interactions. Windfall Natural, a health, beauty, and wellness retailer in the UK for instance, recently moved to a flexible retail location in London. According to @retailfocus, Windfall Natural’s new store paves the way for “an extended product range, more storytelling, and regular events.” Check out the table that they’ve set up towards the front of the store, and notice the sign that inviting people to talk to their staff if they need advice. What about you? Does your store encourage experiences or is it all about the products? If it’s the latter, then consider adopting a more experiential strategy — here’s how! Further Reading If you enjoyed this post, be sure to check out Vend’s guide to increasing sales. This handy resource offers 10 proven tactics for boosting retail sales and improving your bottom line. Specifically, you will: Discover how to turn savvy shoppers into loyal customers Learn how to add real and perceived value to each sale Discover the most effective ways to set yourself apart from your competitorsLearn More Have you optimized your retail store’s floor plan yet? As the year draws to a close, now is a great time to think about how you’re going to transform your business in 2019. Part of doing that could be revamping your floor plan to promote product discovery and wonderful experiences. About Francesca NicasioFrancesca Nicasio is Vend's Retail Expert and Content Strategist. She writes about trends, tips, and other cool things that enable retailers to increase sales, serve customers better, and be more awesome overall. She's also the author of Retail Survival of the Fittest, a free eBook to help retailers future-proof their stores. Connect with her on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Google+. 120profit.com - https://120profit.com/?p=1466&utm_source=SocialAutoPoster&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=Tumblr

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