Steampunk is so interesting. The whole concept of steam-powered technology developing in a Jules Verne-type way throughout society (I explained it to my husband as “a society built upon 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea technology”). Online I found two definitions: (1) a subgenre of science fiction that incorporates retrofuturistic technology and aesthetics inspired by 19th-century industrial steam-powered machinery, and (2) a style of design and fashion that combines historical elements with anachronistic technological features inspired by science fiction. Years ago in SL (and I DO mean years; I’ve been inworld since 2007!!) steampunk was a definite subculture with themed residential areas, shops, and more. Then — as did many of the other subcultures like Gor and the elves — it waned, to the point where it was rare to come across an avatar without actually visiting a defined steampunk area of which only a few remained. As with other fantasy roleplaying communities, it appears to be undergoing a renaissance. One signal is that steampunk now has its own ongoing event, which I just recently learned is actually a blend of Steampunk/Aetherpunk/Dieselpunk (who knew about all these?!?). The Engine Room event has been running for a few years now, and based upon the crowds I’ve run across there appears to be gaining in popularity! Although mixing a fae into it might not be acceptable in some communities, I’ve seen some where it would be (sure, there are plenty of MECHANICAL wings, but natural? rare indeed). There was even a streaming series (Carnival Row) that blended the ideas of fantasy races with a steampunk like society, although it was way different than such a simple concept as that lol. Besides, the whole backstory to my avatar is that she is the product of a rebellious romantic union between lovers from different cultures who sometimes has to struggle to be accepted, so even though the mix may be different, the concept remains the same. In any case, visiting the world of steampunk is fun and interesting, full of “what if’s”. I especially love the submarines and the airships, and of course being me, I spent a lot of time playing with the fashion! I had so much fun with this… maybe you would too!
- Gown: Poet’s Heart – Beatrice. Bow tie & modesty blouse are optional. Ianthe comes in three “texture” packs of 16 colors each or a fatpack of all 51. Each color pack has a HUD to customize the main fabric, the secondary fabric, the tail (which can also be turned off entirely), the collar & cuffs, the modesty blouse (if worn), the buttons, & the bow tie (again if worn). She is sized only for Maitreya & Petite, though since she comes with an alpha she fit my Legacy body perfectly (with no deformers). The combinations are seemingly endless so that this one outfit can be worn multiple times & look totally different each time. EXCLUSIVELY at the Engine Room, open March 20th – April 20th. Demo available.
- Head & Ears: LeLUTKA – Gaia Head (EvoX)
- Body: LEGACY – Mesh Body Special Edition, Feminine
- Skin: Heaux – Mikaela
- Hair: KUNI – Minha
- Eyes: Samia – Lana
- Eyebrows: Nuve – Nadia Tintable Eyebrows
- Makeup: Loa – Nashwa Eyeshadows; Venge – Ear Blushing EvoX
- Horns: LOGO – Hellion Horns
- Wings: –FAS– Bento Faery Wings
- Shoes: Eudora3d – Steampunk Boots
- Pose: Diversion – Ice Maiden
- Location: Arcadia Asylum Library