"One...Sheep...Two...Sheep...Three..."

"Welcome to the world of dreams..." - Luna

Luna is a tapir who runs the Dream Suite, a place where players can visit Dream Addresses of other players around the world. I'll admit that I didn't utilize this feature in New Leaf as much as I could have. I have visited a few Dream Towns and it was pretty fun, but I guess I have always been too self-conscious of my own town to share it with others.

Luna's character being a tapir is notable because in Japanese (and Chinese) folklore, tapirs are known to eat people's dreams. In Japan, this creature is called a baku. If a person wakes up from a nightmare, they can call out to the baku and ask that it eat their bad dream, allowing them to go back to sleep peacefully. However, a person should also use caution when calling upon the baku, because the legends state that if the baku finishes eating a nightmare and is still hungry, it will then eat the person's hopes and desires too.

However, I know that Luna has no malicious intentions in Animal Crossing. I did find it very interesting and fitting to use a tapir as the animal to represent the Dream Suite though.

Anyway, I wanted an outfit inspired by Luna to be light, effortless, and well...dreamy.

• Dress (Lulus): I liked this dress first because it is white like Luna's own dress, but I especially liked it for this outfit because it is light and flowy. I also think the sheer long sleeves with shoulder cutouts make it feel even dreamier. 
• Shoes (Steve Madden): I chose this pale pink color because it matches well to Luna's eyeshadow and dress details. I liked these shoes specifically for this outfit because the stitched detailing reminds me of a quilted blanket to snuggle up under and go to sleep.
• Purse (Kate Spade): The light blue color for this purse was meant to match the color of the dots on Luna's cheeks (would you call them freckles?). 
• Sunglasses (Meller): Sunglasses fit with this outfit because it brings attention to covering the wearer's eyes, like a sleep mask would do. And I chose light blue lenses here again to match the dots on Luna's cheeks. 
• Earrings (L: Michael Kors / R: Bloomingdale's): The rose quartz earrings match the light pink color of Luna's eyeshadow and dress detail, and the crescent moon earrings simply point to nighttime and going to sleep.
• Hair (unknown): I couldn't find the source for this image, so if someone knows where it is from, please let me know so I can credit it. Luna wears her hair in a high bun, so I knew I'd want a high bun for this outfit too. I wanted a slightly messier bun here though, like the wearer had bedhead. 
• Headband (Artbox Jewel): This turquoise beaded headband takes the place of Luna's white and blue floral one.
• Necklace (Lance James): A dreamcatcher necklace is also appropriate for this look for obvious reasons.
• Bracelets (L: Michael Kors / R: Kohls): These were mostly just final accessories that I liked with the outfit, and they are also in the same rose quartz color as the earrings and shoes. 
• Ring (Michael Kors): Haha, no real reason for this ring. I just liked how it looked with the full outfit.

"Oh my...Are you ready to wake up?"

Talk to you all soon!

"I am Called Saharah,"

"for that is my name. I come from faraway land." - Saharah


Just as she says, Saharah comes from a faraway land, and she makes her living by selling exotic wallpapers and carpets. Here's a fun fact: In the Japanese games, Saharah is actually male. In all the Western versions she is described as female though. Maybe it's because of the eyelashes? But Saharah isn't the only character whose gender got flipped from one version to the other. Gracie the giraffe is actually male in the Japanese games too.

I was looking forward to putting this outfit together because it was an excuse for me to have fun putting lots of colors and patterns together. Since Saharah gives the player a variety of wallpapers and carpets with all kinds of designs and themes, I was excited to try something similar here too.

• Shirt (Inspyre Boutique): I chose to start this outfit with a light blue flowy top. It matches the color of the one piece of clothing Saharah wears, her vest. But more than that, it is a fairly basic top, and that allows all the bold colors and patterns coming up not seem too crazy.
• Bralette (Zimmermann Jasper): I thought this bralette added another interesting color to the look, and because it features a lace pattern, it will look cool next to the plain blue shirt.
• Pants (Style & Co): These bold patterned pants are comfortable and light. They are flowy and can be worn even in hot weather (like the faraway lands Saharah comes from).
• Shoes (Azbro): I loved the beaded ankle strap for these wedges. It stands out but matches surprisingly well with the scarf I will mention next.
• Scarf (Amara): The addition of a silk scarf after the cotton shirt, lacey bralette, and beaded shoes adds another texture and pattern to the overall look. 
• Ear Cuffs (BenittaMoko): I wanted to include some earrings with this look as well, and these ear cuffs are interesting and delicate at the same time.
• Earrings (Egan Rittenhouse): Peacock feather-inspired earrings made me think of how these types of feathers are referenced a great deal in art and decorating -- and that's just the kind of thing Saharah could appreciate.
• Head Chain (Knighthood): I also thought some more gold jewelry would look nice with this outfit, but there's not much room left for a necklace! Instead, a turquoise and gold head chain is cool and a little exotic.
• Backpack (Cooleather): An outfit inspired by Saharah wouldn't be complete without a backpack, because that is how she carries all her wallpapers and carpets! A canvas and leather bag brings another different material to go along with the many others in this look.
• Henna (unknown): I am unsure of the source for this image. I found it from favim.com user loren@, so I'm not sure if she is the original source or not. If anyone knows, please let me know and I will give credit where it is due. White henna is something else that makes this look feel exotic and interesting, and I think it's very beautiful. 

"It is done! Done like the past! Tomorrow is here!"


Talk to you all soon!

"Oh boy! Cousin!"

"When was the last time you were here? Well, I'm rather pleased to see ya back again!" - Redd

I know I said that otters were one of my favorite animals just a couple posts ago, but foxes are probably my FAVORITE animal. So Redd, even being a shady art dealer, has a place deep in my heart.

I'll try and keep the history lesson short here, but I think it's important to point out that the Japanese name for a fox is kitsune. Kitsune are mentioned in a lot of Japanese stories as mythical creatures that have the ability to shapeshift, and they often use their intelligence and cunning to trick others. For this reason, Redd's character being a kitsune makes a lot of sense. He is flattering yet sneaky, and enjoys tricking people out of their money.

I don't know about other people, but I enjoy going to Redd's Gallery in New Leaf when it is open. I like that the developers wanted players to pay close attention to some famous pieces of artwork, and thus learn a little more about those paintings and sculptures in the process.

So for this outfit, I wanted to focus on Redd's personality and how he doesn't care if a product is real or fake.

• Dress (Taiycyxgan): A dress featuring the image of a famous painting (Starry Night by Vincent van Gogh) seemed like an easy place to start for this outfit. Even if Redd is willing to sell paintings that aren't authentic, he must have some appreciation for the arts.
• Shoes (Christian Louboutin): I liked the idea of using some well-known designer brands in this look. A pair of Louboutins are recognizable and make a statement, but for someone with a personality like Redd's, these could very well be knock-offs.
• Purse (Hermes): Like the shoes, I used a luxe bag with the idea that this may be a real Hermes purse, but it could also be a fake.  
• Wallet (AliExpress): The fox detailing on this wallet was too cute to pass up! But this is also one of the few outfits where you'll see me list AliExpress as a resource. It's commonly accepted knowledge that websites like these send out misleading and poor quality products (I won't get into the ethics of what they do here, it's just not the place), but it interested me to think that the person who wore this outfit might shrug that off in exchange for a tiny price tag. 
• Phone Case (Foxercases): As with the dress, I liked the idea of using another famous piece of artwork within the outfit itself. This phone case features The Kiss by Gustav Klimt. 
• Ring (Amazon): This gold ring looks like a gingko leaf, which is the same type of leaf Redd has on his apron. 
• Earrings (AliExpress): These earrings are also from AliExpress for the same reasons as the wallet mentioned above. But I also liked these earrings because of their starburst design. During the Fireworks Festival in summer, Redd runs a cookie stand, so I wanted to reference the summer fireworks in this outfit too.
• Necklace (Freida Rothman): The necklace has a different starburst design, also in reference to the Fireworks Festival. 

Thanks again so much for reading.

Talk to you all soon!

"Hi There, Sugar!"

"If you want a makeover, sit down in that chair in front of my machine." - Harriet


When building my towns in New Leaf, I try to make sure Shampoodle gets up and running as soon as possible. The salon is run by Harriet, a pink poodle. She gives the player new hairstyles, makeovers, or color contacts. Even though I've tried all kinds of hairstyles and colors in my hours playing the game, the one I always seem to default to is this:

Ooh la la!

So without further ado, today's outfit is inspired by Harriet, the poodle who loves to make my characters look their best.

• Shirt (Valentino): I have to say, this is one of my favorite outfits I've put together. Everything about it is so feminine and cute. Although I can't say that it'd be practical for someone while working at a salon, I could definitely imagine someone like Harriet wearing this outside of work while going on a date or to a party. I'm starting off with a soft pink blouse, about the same color as Harriet.
• Skirt (ChicWish): Harriet wears a purple dress while working at Shampoodle, and this purple lace skirt looks lovely against the colors of the blouse and accessories.
• Shoes (Jimmy Choo): Already obsessed with hairstyles and makeovers, I'm sure someone like Harriet loves other aspects of fashion and beauty too! These Jimmy Choo heels are bold and girly, and will stand out in the crowd. 
• Purse (Prada): A designer purse also follows the idea of loving all things beauty-related. I chose white as the color for this Prada handbag in order to reference her white hands and feet. 
• Bracelet (Like Buy Enjoy): I think that a delicate bracelet with scissors on it is a perfect accessory for a hairstylist.
• Nails (philglamournails): Freshly manicured nails also seem like an obvious choice when referencing someone who works in a salon. These almond-shaped nails match well with the rest of the look, and I love the slight edge they give to an otherwise very soft and feminine outfit.
• Makeup (Lorac): It is also no surprise that I wanted to include an eyeshadow palette with this look since Harriet loves to experiment with all kinds of beautiful styles.
• Brushes (Ularma): Lastly, I wanted the makeup brushes this individual uses to be just as girly and cute as the rest of the outfit!

"Ta-daaaa! Yep, you both look fabulous and totally different!"


Talk to you all soon!

"Today is Totally Righteous"

"We're all like snowflakes if you think about it. I mean, maaan, we're all different but we all still melt in lava." - Pascal

Otters are adorable. For me, they are one of the cutest animals. Oshawott is one of the cutest Pokémon. And Pascal is one of the cutest Animal Crossing characters.

Pascal is a laid-back hippie who loves to share his philosophies. Yeah, the ideas he shares are usually odd, but he's definitely an endearing part of the Animal Crossing franchise.

• Shirt (Alexander Wang): I wanted the shirt for this outfit to be as basic as possible since Pascal doesn't wear a shirt at all, so I chose a plain white v-neck t-shirt (it's on the bottom left in the picture...I'm realizing now how hard it is to see).
• Skirt (Thanth): I used this skater shirt because it is a feminine take on Pascal's blue jean shorts, and the waviness of it helps to show the beach wave vibes.
• Suspenders (Suspender Store): Simple enough, I added these suspenders because Pascal wears them too. I really like what they do for this outfit as a whole though!
• Shoes (Urban Country): Some strappy leather sandals keep with the hippie attitude that Pascal gives off.
• Hat (Coal): A slouchy beanie also goes with the laid-back style of this look.
• Bag (Seabags): The theme stays nautical with this starfish tote and I like that it has a rope handle. I imagine the person who wears this outfit will quickly fill it up with shells from the beach...and probably hold some snacks in there too.
• Necklace (Macy's): This scallop shell necklace was essential because it's the focal point of Pascal's character -- scallops are his favorite thing in the world!
• Rings (L: Bling Jewelry / R: Effy): The rings on the left are midi rings featuring a shell, seahorse, and palm tree, and the ring on the right has crystal-covered starfish. Overall I liked how they kept this outfit looking nautical and feminine.
• Bracelets (L: Tom Ford / R: Chan Luu): I liked how the bracelet on the left looks like rope, and the gold clasp even reminded me a tiny bit of an anchor, again keeping things ocean-related. The shell bracelet on the right is a perfect accessory because of Pascal's love of scallops. I'm sure he has quite the collection of shells!
• Bronzer (Beauty Treats): Lastly, I wanted the wearer of this outfit to have a bronzed, beachy glow. I think some shimmering bronzer while out in the sun completes the whole look.

"...Consider yourself truthed."

Talk to you all soon!

"My Sister Has Told Me About You!"

"Your secretary, Isabelle, is actually my twin sister!" - Digby

 

Isabelle's twin brother Digby was introduced to the Animal Crossing franchise in New Leaf, and he is in charge of the Happy Home Showcase.

 

Digby works for Nook's Homes in Happy Home Designer, and notably wears the same uniform as his co-workers Lyle and Lottie. I will talk about those other two characters in future posts, and will show the differences I came up with for each outfit based on their individual personalities.

 

As a laid back and friendly character, I wanted an outfit inspired by Digby to have a relaxed vibe.

 

 

• Shirt (Ralph Lauren): I thought a polo would be a nice place to start. Instead of something as formal as the yellow tie he wears in the game, I liked the idea of a comfortable yet nice-looking shirt in the same color.
• Jacket (Toggi): A windbreaker is a great substitute to represent Digby's suit coat. In New Leaf, Digby works outside all the time, so a jacket that will keep the wearer safe from the elements is a perfect way to imitate him.
• Pants (Daisy): I wanted to keep with the relaxed personality of Digby here too, and a pair of cuffed jeans seemed to fit his personality a lot more than professional slacks.
• Belt (Jil Sander): At this point in the outfit, I knew I wanted to include more brown accessories because well, Digby is a brown dog. A brown belt starts it off.
• Shoes (Miss Dora): Next, going with Digby's brown feet, I chose some light brown suede oxford wedges.
• Earrings (Kate Spade): These pink earrings were inspired by the pink freckles on Digby's cheeks, and I thought they were a nice extra pop of color for the look.
• Bag (ClaireChase): A bag for someone who is outside all the time will probably be at least a little worn out, so I liked this distressed laptop backpack that is both casual and functional.
• Hair (bella_tlf): And last, as a nod to his dog ears, these pigtail braids finish off the look.

 Thanks again so much for reading!

Talk to you all soon!

 

"Whaddaya Buyin'?"

ohwaitwronggame


Timmy and Tommy Nook are the adorable nephew characters from the Animal Crossing series. In New Leaf, Tom Nook has shifted the responsibility of managing his retail store to Timmy and Tommy.


The inspiration for today's outfit comes from the twins' long-term goal of having a nice superstore (T&T Emporium!). This look is fairly professional for a retail space and I think it reflects the excellent customer service that the brothers always strive to provide.

• Shirt (LE3NO): A white button-up shirt is a staple in many uniforms, so I figured it'd be a good starting point for this outfit too.
• Sweater (American Eagle): This blue cardigan jacket mimics the color of Timmy's apron, which is the original uniform he wears in the New Leaf game.
• Pants (Dickies): Non-denim pants are another requirement in many uniforms, so I wanted to include them here as well. I think these khaki-colored pants are appropriate for this type of look but they are still youthful and not too drab.
• Belt (Ralph Lauren): I chose a black belt with a gold buckle for this outfit to match well with the shoes.
• Shoes (Salvatore Ferragamo): I liked these shoes for this look because they don't have a high heel, so hopefully they will be comfortable for a person who is on their feet a lot. Working in a retail space means a lot of standing and walking, so I hoped that these shoes would be ones that the wearer could enjoy having on all day.
• Purse (Etsy - LaLisette): Like Tom Nook, Timmy and Tommy are technically tanuki in the original Japanese games, but they are described as raccoons in the western versions. Because of that, I thought a raccoon purse would be really cute!
• Earrings (Infinity & Co): I am conflicted as to whether or not I actually like double-sided earrings like this. I think we can all admit that at the very least they look sort of weird. Regardless of that, I wore a pair like these to the office once and they seemed to be pretty unpractical for that type of job. I couldn't hold my desk phone to my ear without it sliding all over the place and I definitely dropped the handset entirely while on the phone with a customer. Holding a telephone at your shoulder while trying to type just doesn't work out when some huge balls are sticking out of each side of your earlobe.........Anyway, I liked the way they looked with this outfit, so they are staying! 
• Hair Clip (With Chic): I knew a gold leaf-shaped  hair clip would be perfect for this outfit. The final upgrade for the store Timmy and Tommy run, T&T Emporium, has a sign featuring gold leaves in the same style as the New Leaf logo. A gold hair clip to reference that was too cute to skip. 
• Watch (Tory Burch): Working in retail means keeping an eye on the clock and knowing exactly when it's time to open shop and close down for the night. This gold and navy watch ties in with the rest of the outfit and is a perfect accessory to finish the look off.

Thanks again so much for reading!


Talk to you all soon!

Investing in the Stalk Market

"I've been selling turnips here on Sunday morns for 'bout 60 years now. Maybe even more!" - Joan

 

Joan the boar is one of the characters in Animal Crossing who truly embodies uncomplicated country life. She is happy with her routine and I find her character to be very sweet. I'll be honest, I've never spent much time trading turnips at the "stalk market" in the game, but I know a lot of people do and I still think it's a really cute concept.

 

For this outfit I wanted to show a simple country look that someone like Joan would be happy in. I needed the outfit to be comfortable and durable, but still cute.

 

 

 

• Shirt (Royal Robbins): A lightweight shirt with cuffed sleeves is perfect for someone like Joan. The rolled sleeves will make it easier when working in the garden, and the lightweight fabric of the shirt will keep the wearer cool while also protecting them from the sun. I chose a blue shirt and shorts for this outfit to match the color of Joan's own clothes.
• Shorts (Tokyo Laundry): These long denim shorts are appropriate and functional for someone who enjoys the outdoors like Joan. 
• Shoes (Steve Madden): I think if someone is going to be spending day after day working in a garden or trekking in and out of town, some long-lasting shoes are going to be necessary. These boots can be laced to the top in order to protect the wearer's ankles from getting scraped, or they can be laced lower in order to free up the their shins from getting too warm or uncomfortable when walking.
• Socks (H&M): Because I was still thinking about this person being active outdoors, some heavy-duty socks seemed like an obvious choice for both comfort and further foot protection during long walks.
• Hat (Columbia): A hat to protect from the sun was an important component for me. Joan seems like the kind of character to understand that while the outdoors is wonderful, the sun is still damaging. A hat with a neck strap makes it easy to take on and off and keeps the sun off of the wearer's head and neck.
• Necklace (Bling Jewelry): I chose a dragonfly necklace for this outfit for a couple reasons. For one, I don't see someone like Joan wearing a lot of jewelry -- she is too active and it would most likely get in the way. But a dragonfly pendant could be important symbolically. In Japan, dragonflies can be seen as a symbol of victory, strength, and more importantly, good luck and a good harvest. As someone like Joan who relies on her crops to grow strong, a little pendant for good luck seemed like a nice extra touch.
• Watch (Minilujia): Besides the obvious reasons for me liking this watch, like how it matches well with the shoes and brings the whole outfit together, clocks are important for characters like Joan and the for Animal Crossing series in general. In the games, turnips purchased from Joan do in fact go bad. If a player waits too long to sell them or "time travels" by changing the clock in-game, they may just lose their chance to sell their turnips. For that reason, a watch seemed very fitting.
• Backpack (Kaufmann Mercantile): This backpack is really a fruit-picking basket, and it looks very similar to the one Joan herself carries.
• Sunblock (Sun Bum): Finally, as with the hat mentioned above, sunblock is something that is extremely important for someone who spends so much time outdoors. I couldn't imagine an outfit like this without keeping in mind the dangers of excessive sun exposure. Sorry if I sound like your mom, but it's very important!

 

Thanks so much for reading!

 

Talk to you all soon!