Section: Archived Columns

Hello Lippy lovers!

Wow, it’s been a while since I checked in with you! The first of the year always flies by, with our back to back trade shows, and with the bulk of them passed, I decided to take a much-needed vacation from our beloved Lippy Land! Of course, workaholic that I tend to be, instead of relaxing on a beach sipping margaritas I headed out on a tour with my band, Cold Blue Rebels, for a tour of the Pacific Northwest which spanned 3 states and equaled 9 shows in 10 days!

The tour was shared with SOCAL’s the Rocketz and started on St Patty’s day in Oxnard CA, then a stand out performance at the world-famous Gilman St. in Berkeley, where every punk band has played over the last 30 years. This place is an institution which is all ages, non-profit, and aims to help keep kids off the street with affordable great shows and movie nights during the week. The crowd had lots of 12-13 year olds, eager to dance, mixed in with every age up to grey haired old punkers! Oddly enough, it hailed 4 inches in about 30 minutes, which was bizarre for Berkeley, but did not discourage kids from coming out to play! Although sales for plaid bondage pants have slowed recently at Lip Service, it’s clear they will return to popularity – as all the classic punk styles eventually do – with many kids that night enjoying their ’77 punk styles, most likely for the first time! Ahh to be young and discovering punk rock!!

On to Redding (CA), Salem (OR), Corvallis (OR), and 1 night off to party in Portland! The gang headed out to Devils Point, the first truly punk rock strip club I have ever heard of!! If you’re ever in Portland, you must check it out; fire breathing dancers and great Burning man style performers, it seems more like a club then a strip bar, with an equal mix of guys and gals plus bands sharing the stage on the weekends!

A great show at Queen of Hearts Saloon in Portland, then on to a show at Green River collage in Auburn, WA hosted by KGRG 89.9 DJ “The Pope” form Zorch radio, who did a great job and took good care of both bands. Down to Johnny B’s in Medford, OR, a great little Rockabilly/Punk bar, and a long white-knuckle drive down to Trinidad, CA for a gig at the Cher-Ae Heights Casino. That drive should have taken 3 hrs, but took 5 1/2 due to 175 miles of winding through the redwood roads in bad rain and fog!! They gave us 5 star treatment, which was great after days of bad road food and sleeping on promoters floors! Let me tell ya folks, 9 shows in 10 days covering 2500 miles is not a picnic and easily separates the weak from the road warriors!! Rock n Roll don’t pay like it used to and all should respect anyone willing to tough it out, even for a couple weeks!

Of course my Lippy Stretch Fuckin’ jeans and Service Greaser fit jeans held up night after night suffering brutal abuse. Spilt beer and fake blood can’t stop em’!!! I only brought 2 pairs to save space and, though a bit crusty (fabreez is da key), they still made my ass look good every night, LOL!!!!

We ended in Sacramento and then home feeling beat up, sore, and shabby, but somehow full of life at the same time!! Back to work and reality but, I must say, feeling very ALIVE!!! If you haven’t taken a road trip recently or ever (god forbid), do yourself a favor and get out there and do some traveling. There’s no excuse, you can do it in a weekend or a few days. Who knows, we might all be gone in 2012 anyway!! It’s never too late and you can even do it on a broke-ass budget. with summer coming, it will only be easier to sleep in your car, camp on the beach, and hotel prices are dropping lower all the time!

We meet so many cool and fashionable people in some of the most unlikely places and, sure, they might not be up to our Hollywood standards of the latest fashion craze, but how the fuck says we’re so cool anyway?!?!? I meet people with more spirit, heart and lust for life than on any given weekend at “said hot spot” in LA, and found myself actually wanting to have conversations with perfect strangers … imagine that! I managed to visit some of my customers’ stores while traveling, too, and some came out to see our band. I found a couple of new store potentials and spread some catalogs around for future Lippy customers!

Looking forward to a visit from Amelia X of Angelspit this week, who contacted me in need of some clothes for touring, plus will be meeting with a stylist to supply outfits for band Simple Plan. So, with Spring upon us and passing quickly, I say bring it on and let’s get back to what we do best in LA … showing skin, skimpy sexy outfits, spiked heels, fetish parties, outdoor concerts, Bats Day at Disneyland, trios to Venice beach … ahh not to sound like one of those California commercials, but seriously, we do ROCK!!!

Until next time, remember
Fashion+Music=Life!!!!!!
Learn it Love it Live it!!!
Mickey Finn

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Rebel Revolution

Burning Circus

Hey everyone!

Sorry for the disappearing act. We have been SOOO busy getting the Fall line finished and preparing for trade shows, we had no time to fill you in. But, no worries, you’re about to get the behind the scenes info!

Our Summer and Fall lines have just been released and we are super excited to give you a sneak peak into some of the groups before we do the photo shoot.

Rebel Revolution : Road worrier fur with a black metal twist!! Check out these sick pants!!!!

Burning Circus: A tea stained twist on our old Psycho Circus.. This group is worn ,torn and on fire!!!

Step in Time: We have a new print this season that is a custom vintage map print ! We also collaborated with an super talented artist
named Martin Obakke, who, with his wife, run a fairy tale newspaper called the The Filigree … Check out his website and be sure to
Get one of these amazing shirts when they come out!

Step in Time

Fetish Alliance

Dead –Nation: More killer guys’ looks for all you hardcore industrial dudes!

Fetish Alliance: Millitary at it’s best.. This time we have two awesome color ways and be sure to pair it with the hat!!!

There are many more … check back next month for a new preorder section in the main website!!!

In other fun news, Michelle has just returned from the “London Edge” trade show  in London. This was her first time out the
country and here are a few thoughts on her experience …

D&D: First of all Congratulations on going to London!!! That must have been so exciting.

So..how did the trade show go?
The trades show was great! We were able to spend time with our repeat clients and opened some new accounts as well!

Did you get to meet lots of interesting customers and what was that like?
There are lots of interesting people in attendance, customers and vendors alike! There’s also a few great fashion shows and awesome performances throughout the 3 days we were there, it was definitely very inspirational to see some of the outfits being worn! It’s definitely a must-have experience for a designer to meet with actual customers and find out what they like, or don’t like about the clothes, and get input about what they would like to see from us. We are here to make clothes for the customers, and it’s a good idea for designers to get informed about who their customers really are.

Dead-Nation

What were the most popular Lip Service groups/Pieces? Dead Nation was the top seller for Europe, they have good taste for quality and mature looks. Steampunk is also very popular around the world, now. Vinyl and fetish is also very big in Europe!

Last but not least where did you shop in London in your spare time!!!
We went to Camden and it is a must-see! There are hundreds, if not thousands, of independent shops there with really interesting looks, vinyl, lolita, you can find a lot of unique pieces! Also, cyberdog is a really awesome store, it’s got 3 levels and the inside is like the inside of a club with strobe lights, loud music, there’s even a huge equalizer built into the wall! All the employees dress up and dance around the store, its really amazing! I also went to All Saints, which is a retro inspired contemporary store, but they have a lot of really original clothing in there!

We also went to Oxford Street and went to Top Shop, River Island, Urban Outfitters, and another All Saints! I just love all their dresses and stuff, even though some of them are super expensive. They also have an entire basement that is sale stuff, so you can find super quality for a little less.

After that, we wandered off into this alley which led to a smaller district that had independent shops, restaurants and vintage stores. It was very inspiring to browse the stores and meet the owners!!

We would also like to announce a new  addition to the Lip Service Attic  “Lippy’s Trim & Fabric Frenzy”! Where you can find trims such as buttons, zippers, buckles, lace, etc, fabric (especially custom lip service fabric you won’t find anywhere else), plus props … fun stuff leftover from photo shoots!!  Keep your eyes peeled and get ready for some D.I.Y Lippy action.

Finally, we are now taking requests for groups to be made for Spring 2012!!!! YOU tell us what you want, what you love, what you need!!!! We would love to hear from you guys!!

‘Til Later,
The Design Team

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This month’s featured Denizen of the Dark is none other than Pierre Ordinaire, founder and mastermind of the Goth/Industrial live multimedia project known as Moodorgan.

Pierre exemplifies the transcendent Piscean spirit in his metaphysical and philosophical perspective. If you’ve seen the live Moodorgan show, you know it is a total immersion experience in which timeless archetypes are brought vividly into the present tense in living, breathing energy. Arthur C. Clarke once said, “Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.” The inventive spirit that infuses all aspects of this audio/visual artistry is the work of a modern-day alchemist of the highest order.

Pierre provides us with a glimpse into the central theme of “alive-ness” that distinguishes Moodorgan among the vast range of contemporary Goth/Industrial artists …

“ … important is the idea that a live performance should indeed be live. In an age of seemingly ubiquitous ‘just press play’ electronic bands Moodorgan’s creative manifesto demands that everyone on stage be playing real (and plugged-in) instruments and that computers and sequencers should be under the live control of humans, not the other way around.”

Creative, minds that are hungry for sophisticated and inspiring music are in for the ride of their lives. The only way to really know what Moodorgan is all about is to experience the show, first-hand. Catch them at The Good Hurt in West LA on Friday, March 25th.

moodorgan.com

Aries

Keep checking your blind spot because the unexpected is going to be hitting you from every angle, throughout the springtime. Practical and legal issues are more likely to come up in the first half of March but, they’ll be resolved with success and efficiency. On a more personal note, you’ll be renegotiating the terms of your relationships and that‘s a far more delicate matter. If you want things to be equitable between you and the people you care about, pay particular attention to what is fair. Might does not make right. It’s all too easy for you to steamroll someone into a raw deal and have them come back later saying “Dude, what the fuck?”

Taurus

If you are willing to go through the tedious preparation, sift through the data and break some bad habits this month, then April promises to breathe new life into your entire earthly experience. The scary little undercurrent of instability that crept into your life at the end of January could finally give way to a much more supportive situation in June. But, it all depends on how you play the game, right now. Set an intention and stick to it like only a Taurean can. This is the perfect time to start a business plan or a fitness program. Go ahead and buy the jeans that are one size too small, today. With a little tough love, your ass is going to look stellar in them by summertime.

Gemini

The second week of March feels like someone slipped nitrous in your gas tank while you weren‘t looking. New information hits you like a bolt from the blue and it will very likely change everything. You feel galvanized and inspired but, also somewhat overwhelmed. Toward the middle of the month, your new-found confidence and drive may steer you right into hand-to-hand combat with The System. Get your facts straight. Put everything in writing and be prepared for a serious showdown so that when it’s time to present your case, you stand more than just a fighting chance. You may actually succeed in sticking it to The Man. Don’t be too surprised, however, if you find that you are The Man.

Cancer

March finds you at a personal crossroads. You can feel, at a deep, resonant level, the gravity of this situation and the lasting impact that your choices will have on the next several years of your life. Massive potential energy floods your solar house of long-term career goals. Your greatest asset right now is your intuition. Don’t send the brain to do the instinct’s job. Just feel through this and leave the calculating to your accountant. In the meantime, close relationships deepen and courtship graduates to the plane of intimacy. Take a good look at the face of the one you’re flirting with. You could be looking at that face for quite a long time.

Leo

The very idea of shifting your life from Me-centric to We-centric is a fascinating little concept. So far, the experiment has been most entertaining, to be sure. But, what happens when it comes time to start actually sharing, compromising and … dare I say it … putting someone else first?! But, seriously folks, it is important to strike the right balance between the needs of any partnership and the needs of each individual, therein. This month brings a unique opportunity in which, with some skillful negotiation, it really is possible for everyone to get what they need. You don’t have to give up being the star, dearest Leo. You just have to consider the possibility of a binary star system.

Virgo

Stop panicking about your money, already! No, you do not need that second luxury vehicle and no, you do not need to keep buying the highest grade, organic, gourmet dog food for your Chihuahua. Tightening the belt does not make you a failure; it makes you a reasonable human being. This is the Universe’s way of deconstructing your personal value system so that you can reconstruct it in a healthier and more relevant form. Yes, things will be less financially precarious in June. Until then, spend some time looking at what really matters and re-evaluating your non-material assets. Several of your hidden skills and talents are ready to re-surface once you’ve given them some space.

Libra

Sudden flashes of inspiration make for a playful and creative start to the month. These are followed up by support, guidance and maybe even some funding, courtesy of friends in high places. These are people who clearly recognize the potential mutual benefit and have a vested interest in your success but, it’s still a good idea to send a thank you card. Mid-month there are practical concerns to attend to regarding your living situation and day-to-day routine. Tap your Libran knack for negotiation and hammer out a new schedule that works for everyone. If you play your cards right, you’ll have cause for much celebration right around the 26th.

Scorpio

How do you tear down a fortress? From the inside. But, that’s not the end of the revolution. Once you’ve done the wreckin’ you need to build something new; put something in the place of the old, outmoded system that needed to die. If you just leave it empty, it’s likely to fill up with something that looks suspiciously like that same old, outmoded system. You’ll notice a general sense of comfort and well-being supports you through this month but, don’t let that lull you to sleep. It’s there to keep you up and moving. This is no time to become complacent. All the talking, planning and dreaming you’ve done for months is about to bear fruit.

Sagittarius

You know that cliché where the fortune teller says you’ll meet a tall, dark stranger? Well, I don’t know about tall and dark but, strangers will definitely be an abundant source of surprisingly engaging conversation, this month. They may even help to illuminate some shadowy facets of your personal philosophy. Around the 24th and 25th the moon will pass through your sign and make a supportive aspect to your ruler, Jupiter. What the hell does that mean? Glad you asked. It’s one of those windows of opportunity through which we might access greater wisdom. Being the true seeker that you are, I have no doubt that your eyes will be peeled for signs from above … or below.

Capricorn

I hope you made good use of your bonus charisma points, last month because now they are moving on into your solar second house and that could mean money! A bit of a financial cushion will prove quite handy as your home and family situation meets with some sudden, unexpected circumstances around March 11th. There is some assertive discussion regarding what is Mine versus Yours versus Ours, followed by a once-in-a-lifetime chance to completely redefine each of those terms. The key is to be flexible. Go back and review your Tao Teh Ching so that when true happiness arrives in a form you do not recognize, you don’t mistakenly dismiss it as wrong.

Aquarius

Friends and loved ones will be especially generous with their support, this month as long as you aren’t too busy pontificating to notice. Yours is the sign voted most likely to be completely oblivious of other people’s attention. Maybe you should schedule a lunch date with a Leo and get a few pointers. Expect an epiphany or two around March 9th. There will be an ongoing dialogue (the greater part of which is likely to occur in your head) regarding the dynamic nature of human interaction: Me versus We. Can true Freedom be sustained in the context of Partnership? Well, probably. But, it might be necessary to reinvent your definitions of both Freedom and Partnership.

Pisces

Like charging a battery, you are building up huge stores of potential energy throughout the month. By the time you are ready to fire it off around the 25th it will have reached pretty epic proportions and you will grab a lot of people‘s attention. In the process, you may become acutely aware of the sources from which all that power really comes. Your deeper drives and motivations become increasingly obvious, to the point where no one around – not even you – can deny their true nature. Upon the realization that the Emperor has no clothes, does it cost you more to continue perpetuating your personal mythology or to put some fucking pants on?

About Forest

Forest is available by appointment for personal astrology and tarot readings by visiting her website: NuiCobalt.com

Isn't it romantic?

Closet check!!

Well, the new year is off and running and it’s a good time to get a head start on spring cleaning. I know … UGH!!!

But, if you’re at all like me, your closet and every available drawer is overflowing with clothes you just can’t seem to part with. Look at it this way, anything you have not worn for the last 6 months is probably old news and there’s no point waiting for that rare moment when you might wear them again. Set them free and rid yourself of the ties that bind you!!

Whatever … it’s the best excuse to shop for new clothes!! I know money is tight for all of us, but getting yourself motivated to get out there and live life starts with looking good. Ever notice how when you go buy something new to wear, it’s the first thing that pops into your head when you wake up? Your outlook for that day, on your way to work, is nothing short of amazing!

Lippy invades Houston for the Halloween & Party Expo

So, just do it then!! And, here’s a great way to start!

Pack up a bag of “has been’s” and head down to Buffalo Exchange or some thrift store and cash that junk in!! Then, take the cash and buy something new. Remember, the more you let go, the better your shopping spree can be!! If you’re in L.A., (not be be favoritist or anything, but …) Lippy’s Bargain Basement is a great place (or www.lip-service.com if you’re not). Or head out to that store in your area you love to hit but seldom do because not having the cash to get something makes you too sad (because, this time, you’ll have a nice wad to play with).

Trust me on this you wont regret or miss the pack rat stuff at all!!

Lippy land has been crazy the past couple weeks, with a trip to Houston for the Halloween & Party Expo. We now have over 50 packaged costumes in our 2011 line and are set to represent our scene to the rest of the costume world in a major way this year and years to come. (There are a few more photos below with sneak peeks at more new costumes!)

The hottest Lippy look of the night winner. Congrats!

January 15th, we descended on Bar Sinister for a celebration of my band, Cold Blue Rebels, record release party with giveaways courtesy of Lip Service all night!! A best look contest was held, with the Lippy staff cruising the club unnoticed throughout the night. to select a winner presented onstage with a $100.00 gift certificate for the Lip Service  retail website, or at the Bargain Basement store. Blood Guts and Rock n Roll was the theme for the night and CBR delivered one of our best performances, ever. Big thanks to Tricia La Belle and the Bar Sin crew for making the night a big success!

This week it’s crunch time, once again, with the design team working feverishly to complete details for our big trade shows in London followed my Magic in Las Vegas, then the International Lingerie show back in Vegas again. All before the end of March … Yikes!!!

Well, it is painted on the wall of our Original Cult warehouse, “It’s not just a job, it’s an adventure”.
True, and an adventure ain’t always a vacation! But its always a trip!!
Until next time………….Fashion+Music+Life
Mickey Finn

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This month’s featured star is Eric Schreeck!
He is an Aquarian in the truest sense of the word and the Master of Ceremonies at the single greatest karaoke night in all of Los Angeles, Ground Control Karaoke at Jewel‘s Catch One. It’s one of the many places where his role as the Water Bearer is very much expressed.
“Andrew [GC’s promoter] calls me the ‘conscience of Ground Control,’ says Eric. “It may seem to an outsider that I all I do is announce singers’ names and tell people to keep drinking, but there is actually a bit more going on than that. Besides having worked out a organization system over the years that actually works … even if I’m blind drunk, I have to ‘feel’ out the room and balance my role as Master Of Ceremonies with dollops of other personalities. Sometimes I can get away with being a fool and some nights I have to be a bit of a schoolmaster. If things are really getting out of hand, I’m a dictatorial zookeeper but that rarely happens, at least for long.“
When he’s not wrangling the Ground Control herd, Eric performs with two amazing bands, each of which has graced the Los Angeles underground club scene.
“To paraphrase something The Edge, of the band U2, said about Bono, “I’m a nice bunch of guys”. As far as my current bands, I’d say I’m a bit of a crazed vaudevillian cabaret Expressionist mixed with a revival tent preacher when I sing for Unextraordinary Gentlemen, and a post-apocalyptic rock-and-roll survivor prone to fits of violence and delusions of twisted charm when I’m fronting BloodPenny. Which doesn’t actually answer your question at all, does it?”
Actually, it did. But, then I’m an Aquarian, too.

GroundControlKaraoke.com

And now for the ‘Scopes, Folks!

Aries

Your career gets a powerful jolt, early in the month. Long-term plans had better become flexible so that you can cash in on some of that outrageous fortune, now. If you’re too attached to your own version of what should be, then you may fail to recognize better opportunities before they’ve passed out of reach. Stay on target during the later part of February, as there will be lots of sparkly things attempting to distract you from taking out the proverbial garbage. Just because it doesn’t stink yet doesn’t mean you should keep it around. You know it has to go so, lose it.

Taurus

February sends an electrical current through your belief system and puts unusually keen focus on your personal philosophy. Where you’d normally find yourself drawn to calm and peaceful pastures, you can’t seem to shake the sense of wonder tempting you away from what‘s familiar and into the throes of wanderlust. It’s a classic Hero’s Journey waiting to happen. New insight could propel you onto a brand new course of travel, study or even a reinvented career path. It’s time to exhume the childhood hopes and dreams you’ve kept long buried in the interest of practicality. Dream bigger!

Gemini

Trust issues flare up early in the month, calling into question the terms and agreements of your relationships. You’ll want to come back to the negotiation table to redefine your wants and needs in light of new developments. You grow and change, so why shouldn’t your desires do the same? Unexpected (and not entirely logical) career developments show up later in the month. Let go and ride the momentum of growth before you know your precise direction and you’ll find you’re on a better track than the one you had in mind.

Cancer

Eruptive energies crack the foundations of your close relationships. Now, before you start screaming at me, take a good look at the relationships in question. Are they healthy, functional and balanced as they are, or could they use a makeover? Are you participating in them as an agent of harmony or of discord? Either way, you’re getting evicted from your comfort zone because said zone is under construction until mid-June. In the area of spiritual and philosophical growth, you have a unique opportunity to expand beyond anything you’ve ever seen. Solitude and introspection are just the thing to illuminate your perspective.

Leo

Schedule a lot of extra time to compensate for the unexpected suck that will attempt to disrupt your regularly scheduled activities. Be extra careful with that sexy body, too as your customary super strength is likely to get hit with a bit of the ol’ Kyptonite, early in the month. You are not alone; if you let people help you, things will ease up considerably mid-month. When you decide to trust someone, you are not losing your independence, you are practicing the fine art of delegation. It’s all about getting the job done and flexing your creative muscles to invent new and effective ways to tackle the myriad projects to which you have over-committed. Again. Have you considered a personal assistant?

Virgo

Other people’s crises are your specialty. You could deliver a supermodel’s baby in the back of a speeding limousine being chased by paparazzi and never break a sweat. That’s good, because there will be some intense moments early in the month that require your unparalleled gift for structure and time management. It seems everyone else has lost touch with reality. All around people have been drinking the proverbial kool-aid and pragmatic concerns have been altogether abandoned. Just remember that not every problem is *your* problem. Save who you can and trust the rest to sink or swim on their own.

Libra

It’s the thought that counts, right? …right? Not if that’s all there is. If words and ideas aren’t backed up with action, after a while it’s hard to take them very seriously. Saturn’s retrograde in your sign is bringing up matters of honor and integrity that will likely affect all of your interpersonal dealings through mid-June. In the short term, you just might resurrect some deeply buried desires for an intense, intimate encounter around February 9th. After the 17th, deadlines at work get a lot more flexible and the office vibe is unusually laid back. If you have projects that need to get done on time, do them early and enjoy the break.

Scorpio

Your creative energies are running very high and artistic self-expression could become a uniquely powerful, even spiritual experience. Or, maybe you’re just drunk. Either way, you’re getting a lot of attention, this month. Prepare to handle top secret information that could blow a hole right through your current perceptions, especially as it relates to friends and lovers. This is a pretty uncommon occurrence, given your penchant for sleuthing so, be willing to hear outside opinions regarding your personal life. Some pivotal matters of the heart may escape your notice but be very obvious to everyone else.

Sagittarius

Your financial situation is likely to change suddenly – and perhaps unexpectedly – in the first half of the month. Truth be told, you probably saw this coming. Dial down the spending for a week or two so that you have a bit of a cushion, just in case it‘s a bad change. It seems the emotional chaos that’s impacting so many of the people around you is somehow having a positive effect on your life, individually. Near the end of the month, you’ll feel a bit impatient with the dreamy, laid back pace but, the extra drive and motivation can launch you far ahead of the pack long before the slackers get their shit together.

Capricorn

Gaaaaahhh! No, just kidding. It’s not that bad. Venus will meet up with Pluto in your sign on February 9th, bringing old relationship issues to the surface in a rather eruptive way. With that retrograde Saturn in Libra, it seems like everyone is having to deal with love issues to one degree or another so, at least you’re not alone. We are in Valentine’s season, after all. In your professional life, it is time to unveil the secret weapon you’ve been building in the garage since mid-July of 2010. The public may not instantly bend to your mighty will but, they’ll certainly think twice before fucking with you.

Aquarius

Happy Birthday, brainiac! Perhaps you might descend from your ivory tower and have some cake with us here, in the material world? Mars in your sign means a whole lot of enthusiastic thinking, talking and planning but, not much actual doing. This is not such a bad thing, in the short term. You’ll need the time to perfect your strategy for reinvention before you tear down the old structure. An intense spiritual awakening occurs unexpectedly in the early part of February, followed by several weeks of exploring the cosmos and not a whole lot of pragmatic productivity. Make an extra effort to stay on top of your finances.

Pisces

You may change your opinions, this month about how you fit into the bigger picture. The motivation that kicked in last month gains momentum as people continue shift their focus to you. It’s all a bit confusing. With all of this attention and collective conversation, it’s easy to miss some of the information being discussed. On Friday, the 25th there is a perfect conjunction of Mercury and the Sun in your sign so, you’re likely to get caught up on whatever went previously over your head. Don’t take any support for granted; people are far more accommodating if they don’t feel their help is expected.

About Forest

Forest is available by appointment for personal astrology and tarot readings. To make an appointment, visit her website: NuiCobalt.com or call 818-906-8263.

The Cold Blue Rebels’ “Blood, Guts N’ Rock & Roll” is finally available! You can pick up a copy at Amazon or download through iTunes.

Of course, there ‘s a killer party in the works. The guys are cooking up a frick’n insane night of Blood, Guts (REALLY … have you SEEN the live show?!?) and plenty of ass-kicking Rock n Roll! If you’re anywhere near LA on the 15th, you really want to make it to Bar Sinister for a sexy, gory night of psychobilly rock madness. Oh, and did I also mention, they’ll be giving out some choice Lippy swag, as well as a gift certificate for the webstore to the best Lip Service look of the night. So come on out, check out a badass rock show, do some rocking of your own in your hot Lippy gear. You might just find yourself with a nice little prezzie of more Lippy on the way home!

If you want to get a quick preview (plus a little something from Wednesday 13 of Murderdolls), you can download the first single, “Drenched in Black” at Box.net.
Preorder Blood, Gits & Rock N Roll

See you on the 15th!

This month’s featured denizen of the Dark is Laurel Noelle! She’s a former Lippy model and a quintessential Capricorn.

Laurel is a self-styled natural born leader and inherently stubborn. “Once I decide to do something, one way or another, it gets done. Whether that means doing it all myself, or delegating most of it…that would be me. I am a bit of a mother hen on top of it all, with my son, with my friends, with animals also, so it stands to reason that I often feel like I need to run things.

It doesn’t hurt to be stubborn most of the time. It works well with the aspects of myself that like to be in charge. It only hurts when it infringes on my ability to reason, communicate or love, which it has in the past and has required time and patience to sort out.”

When describing her introduction to the Los Angeles Goth/Industrial scene, Laurel says, “It started out at Sin-a-matic. As far as my personal style, I am a thrift store shopping … tiny boutique kinda gal, and while I used to wear mostly black, these days I like color a lot more, and I like what I wear to have a personal touch whether it be a flounce, or a pin, or something in or about my hair, to set myself apart from the norm. Though I must say I am very excited about the new steampunk items from Lip Service!”

I promise I didn’t make her say that last bit. *smirk*

And now, for your ‘Scopes!

Aries

You’ll have an uncharacteristically quiet month until around the 13th, when your ruling planet, Mars brings you helpful interactions with powerful people on the way out of his exaltation in Capricorn. It would be wise of you to exercise some patience. Ha! Try to listen carefully to the teachings and preachings of those who are older and wiser than yourself. It could mean getting away scot-free with a few of your past misdeeds but, don‘t get cocky. That get-out-of-jail-free card does not extend to serious Karmic douchebaggery.

Taurus

While you do excel at playing the role of the Lovely Assistant, January calls you to step up and be the one in charge. You have very strong support behind you but, it is almost entirely unseen. Yours is the only face in the spotlight. Just trust that someone (or something) very influential has got your back. The solar eclipse will bring your focus to your personal belief system, your world view and inspire you to reinvent it by learning more than you might want to know.

Gemini

Having shaken off the dust of his retrograde in Sagittarius, your ruling planet, Mercury speeds steadily forward, again. Carefully check your diary pages from around December 13th, 2010 so that you have a heads-up as to a potential repeat performance around January 17th, 2011. The good news is you’ll be prepared, this time. The bad news is it could look a lot like last time. Your ace in the hole is your talent for clear, precise and quick thinking especially when you are in familiar territory.

Cancer

You are caught in a tug of war between the idealistic theories to which you tightly adhere and the real world applications thereof. Some things are just better on paper than they are in practice. Your relationships – both with friends and with lovers – will continue to go through some growing pains as your ideas about how they should be repeatedly clash with what is. From the 14th to the 16th, you may even feel a bit picked on. Flex your muscles and get aggressive if you need to. Some people will find it refreshing.

Leo

Tap your personal creativity, this month. In the long, dark night of the soul it is possible to find an inner spark. You are finishing up a very trying time. I know you’ve had more than enough but, the worst is almost over. In the meantime, your inner artist is fired-up and ready to get … expressive. Also, the day-to-day routine goes through a major overhaul so, keep an eye on your health as you adjust. You who burn so brightly are least likely to realize when you are close to burning out.

Virgo

Your reputation for being a hard-ass is well earned, this month. Without you nothing would get done at all! Everyone else is lazy, hung over and unmotivated so, what else is the Great Fixer of Things to do? First, define a plan of action. Then, account for all of the random things that will undoubtedly get in the way. The solar eclipse will hit you right where you live … in some cases, literally. Get a handle on your home life before other people’s negligence becomes more than you are willing to clean up.

Libra

You’ll have to take matters into your own hands when it just takes too damn long to get permission from someone else. Go ahead and ruffle a few feathers; it’s not going to kill you. So what if some authority figures come down on you a bit hard. Haven’t you ever gotten in trouble, before? Even the Powers That Be put their pants on one leg at a time. Stop cowering in their presence and speak up, already. It’s a once in a lifetime chance to see for yourself that you are just as mighty as the almighty They.

Scorpio

Enough of this pussy-footing around and being nice! Down and dirty is very much the name of your game, his month. Venus has been camping out (mostly) in your sign since way back in September of ‘10 and it’s high time you had your digs back to yourself. After the 16th, theoretical discussions with people render new and exiting long-term plans. Your usual preference for less talk and more action seems temporarily replaced by a penchant for chattiness. Just as long as you’re talking dirty.

Sagittarius

It’s a power-packed month for all you Archers. Venus steps into your sign on the 7th, making everything a whole lot prettier, with or without the use of hallucinogens. The temptation may be to take your customary optimism to an irrational extreme. Hope is great. Just temper it with a bit of pragmatism. After the 22nd, you’ll notice you’re feeling less inclined to bliss out Zen style and more inclined to bust out the crazy Kung Fu mastery. Why fight it? Flex those new superpowers!

Capricorn

Sea-Goats have played host to some serious astrological craziness, as of late. January kicks off with a solar eclipse in your sign as well as another conjunction of Mercury and Pluto. The pen is truly mightier than the sword. The most valuable commodity is information and those who have it are calling all the shots. Debates, negotiations, even full-on arguments are where you really shine, this month. Get what you want by flexing your voice in front of as broad an audience as possible.

Aquarius

Shortly after the sun enters your sign near the end of January, your traditional ruler, Saturn begins a five month retrograde through Libra. You’ll notice less attention placed on the rules, rigors and structure of the outside world but way more on those of the inner life. Personal discipline, responsibility and fundamental principles of behavior as well as thought have you deeply engaged in the process of reinventing yourself. Trust yourself. There’s no one else in charge.

Pisces

You haven’t had this much drive and ambition since June of ’10. That was the last time your ruler, Jupiter moved into Aries. After the 22nd of this month you are focused on your task and enthusiastic about seeing it through. Ideas come at a rapid-fire pace and every one of them is in high definition. You are, in a word, unstoppable. The disapproving glares you will get from others will have little or no effect, except possibly to amuse you.

About Forest

Forest is available by appointment for personal astrology and tarot readings by visiting her website: NuiCobalt.com

The new Cold Blue Rebels album is just about ready to go! It’s set for release on Jan. 11, with a badass party to celebrate at Bar Sinister on the 15th!

You can make sure you get your hot little hands on a copy ASAP by placing a preorder with Amazon now. Preorder Blood, Gits & Rock N Roll

Until then, you’ll just need to satisfy yourself with the treat Mickey gave us for you … Enjoy!

The video for “Cold, Blue, and Beautiful” (by Plastic Hassle):

Cold Blue Rebels – Cold Blue & Beautiful from DesignerJim on Vimeo.

Well, December is here and, whether it brings you joy or gives you the blues, we all have to get through it to get to the biggest party of the year, the 31st! Although I have gone through years of bah humbug and anti Xmas days, I somehow or another have grown to be all good with the holiday season and all the sentimental memories it arouses in me. We all know times are tough, but most of us also have something to be thankful for. Be it family, friends, that special someone, or a new pair of Lip Service jeans, giving thanks for another year of life is something we all need to take the time to do.

That said, here’s a quick rehash of the last few weeks.

The LS design team has been busy completing our line for next year’s Summer and Fall seasons, as well as 25 new packaged costumes, which are on display at the International Halloween Show in New York City this week. Keep in mind, the LS retail website is the place for your one-stop shopping, with plenty of great deals and speedy shipping options to get you your gifts quicker than Santa!

November came and went with a calming trend in business here at LS as well as my music, with my band taking a few weekends after non-stop shows almost every weekend this year! The mandatory turkey was cooked, the hot cherry pie baked, and many cervezas helped ensure the food coma would sink us deeply into the couch for a long winter’s nap.

Not to be idle too long, the day after Thanksgiving found us on our way to Sin City for a gig at the notorious Double Down bar, celebrating 18 years being more punk than you! We stayed at the Hard Rock Hotel and, much to my delight, in the entrance they had a new display featuring Shawn White, Olympic gold medalist, from his Rolling Stone magazine cover shoot lighting his snowboard on fire while wearing his American flag Kill City Jeans, courtesy of The Original Cult!

Our show rocked, the rest of the weekend was complete debauchery, and the traffic heading home on Sunday was brutal, logging 8 hours but all worth it, as we had plenty of fun stories to exchange on our way home. Finishing the year for the Cold Blue Rebels, we have this Friday in Bakersfield, next Friday Fresno, and a benefit 12/18 for the Rocketz, who totaled their van on tour, with everyone walking away …  literally! They need new wheels! Then we will take a break until our record release party at Bar Sinister on 1/11/2011, which will be a fun party complete with Lip Service giveaways!

This week we have welcomed to our endorsement family the hard working Koffin Kats, hailing form Michigan. These guys tour constantly and, after playing a few shows with them, I can say they deliver a fun show every night! Enjoy the clothes, guys, and don’t stop ’til you’re in the grave!

Well that’s all for now. Enjoy the holiday season, be thankful for what you have, and remember … a little kindness can be the best gift to someone in need, as well as yourself!

Have a happy one and please drink responsibly and remember …
Fashion+Music=life
Mickey Finn

[Show as slideshow]

This month’s featured Sagittarian is Ty a.k.a. Drown Rat.

Five years ago I saw a man in dreds and a kilt tearing up a Los Angeles Goth/Industrial dance floor and was completely spellbound. Now, keep in mind, I’ve been dancing professionally for a good long time. Blew out more than my share of pointe shoes, taught some tango classes … I even went and got an MA in Dance, once upon a time. But, I could honestly say this man had something going on kinesthetically I had never seen. He is known as Ty a.k.a. Drown Rat. He’s a Sagittarian and I’ve been looking forward to writing about him for quite a while …



His self-description exemplifies many of the commonly recognized Sagittarian traits … “an irrepressible sense of fun and an inspiring spiritual side … the sense of being in a state of divine grace, at one with the universe. We have a positive outlook on life, full of enterprise, energy, versatility, adventurousness and eagerness to extend the experience as much as possible. We enjoy traveling and exploration. We are honorable, honest, trustworthy, truthful, generous and sincere with a passion of justice to a fault.”

So, I asked, what were the Sagittarian stereotypes which did not apply to him?

“I don’t fear responsibility. I’m not self-indulgent, a fanatic or refuse to grow up. I live through my friends who are better at doing certain things, such as being a gifted pyschic, being in a band, etc.”

Ty’s natural curiosity and wanderlust brought him to the Goth/Industrial scene when he was stationed in Germany …



“The story goes like this: I was bored with the music I had and wanted something new so I borrowed a cassette, which provided me with very restless sleep and foreshadowing of what was to come. It’s interesting how music can influence you one way or another. It allows your psyche to wander and experience things that are alien and yet so familiar. Skip forward several years, and many many clubs later you find me as I am now.”
“The best way to describe my fashion style would be as celtic-rivet. Truth be told, I only wear pants or shorts [as opposed to a kilt] to work, because of the business-casual dress code … it allows the strange “normal” people to feel at ease, knowing that a regimental half-scott isn’t walking around.”
So, while he may not be the only guy in a Goth/Industrial club who is wearing a kilt, it’s still very easy to spot Ty. Just look for the guy who’s dancing like gravity is optional. The one who is simultaneously inspiring and intimidating.

I’ll be the small brunette somewhere nearby trying very hard to keep up with him. And now … your ‘scopes.

Aries

It’s just so damn inconvenient with all these people and their petty needs cramping your style. Don’t they know you’re working toward world domination? The wise response to the delay is to utilize the extra time on your hands and revise your master plan. December 13th features a three planet pile-up involving Pluto, a retrograde Mercury and Mars, your planetary ruler. That means it’s a crucial time to re-establish ties with your allies and agents, especially the villainous ones. Don’t forget to kick them a nice holiday bonus.

Taurus

The month ahead has all of the passion and intrigue of classic Film Noir. Don’t underestimate the power of the Dark Side. It’s a source of great support for you, right now. While you customarily dwell in the placid fields of the familiar, it’s getting close to the time when risk is no longer avoidable. Consult with those who have danced on the edge and lived to tell the tale. With a bit of practice, you just might find you develop a taste for living dangerously, too. If you have your eye on a particularly tasty prize, the perfect time to strike is Wednesday, the 8th.

Gemini

Moments of clarity are consistently inconsistent for you, this month. But, when they do show up, they smack you right upside the head. Mercury, your ruling planet, goes retrograde in Capricorn on the morning of December 10th. You may find life’s pace becomes frustratingly slow for about the next three weeks. But, this is a rare opportunity to get a frame-by-frame look at the proverbial Big Picture. That big brain of yours will love having exclusive access to secret information. Be judicious in your subsequent conversations, as it will be oh so tempting to show off everything you know.

Cancer

Maybe it’s all that “home for the holidays” stuff that’s got you in a good mood, this month. Or, maybe it’s just the proliferation of comfort food. Either way, love and support are all around you, especially from unexpected sources. People genuinely want to help you out and they have the resources to do so. Don’t ask why the powers that be are so obviously on your side. Just appreciate it. Enjoy the felicity and pay it forward … preferably in cookies. Oatmeal raisin. Thanks.

Leo

Cold, hard reality doesn’t seem so cold and hard, this month. Okay, maybe it’s hard but, only when it gets excited. The rules actually work for you instead of against you, just as long as your gift for owning the spotlight is put into service for the people in charge. You’ll be asked to engage in a bit of propaganda, but it just might be the kind of hype you can really get behind. Make your own choices and the crowd will follow. You get the benefit of the doubt because you have already cultivated a stellar reputation. *cough*slut*cough*

Virgo

You spend a good part of the month feeling torn between doing what is practical and what is optimal. Usually, if anyone is equipped to bring these things into a useful synthesis, it’s you. But, during the Mercury retrograde, the best possible result can only be reached if you look at things from a less conventional perspective than your own. Consult with your local mad scientist or witch doctor. You know … someone who’s really fucking nuts. It will be just the shake-up you need to clear the cobwebs and see things for what they really are.

Libra

Your usually dynamic social fluttering is a bit slowed-down, this month. Of course, there are some logical reasons for that, given the holiday season and its concurrent schedule changes. But, it also seems people are in less of a light, party mood and more of a deep, intense bonding mood. You’ll find you’re very well positioned to play the role of the therapist to several of the people you may not have considered among your closest friends. Get through the discomfort, listen and let the conversation get more real. It will be as much a benefit to you as it is to them.

Scorpio

And you thought your birthday was good! Wait ‘til you see how things shake out, this month. It’s a perfect blend of naughty fun and intrigue with an extra dash of danger. For most people, that’s all a bit too risky but, it’s just right spice for the scorpionic super-ninja! Mid-month, your ability to navigate the seedy underworld comes in very handy and other people will be asking for your input. Mars, Mercury and Pluto meet up for a nefarious power-summit that makes a supportive aspect to your sign, in the middle of the month. The “bad guys” aren’t so bad when they’re on your side.

Sagittarius

The pace of your life is speeding up, considerably, and it’s important for you to maintain some additional structure if you‘re going to manage. Double-check your appointment book … okay, first you have to get an appointment book. Hell, you might just want to bite the bullet and hire a personal assistant. You’re far more likely this month to get caught unawares, so tighten it up. If you do, there’s increased financial flow readily available by January. If not, you can just have your new assistant kick your ass for missing out.

Capricorn

It’s certainly not going to be a boring month. Mercury makes, not one, but two conjunctions with Pluto in your sign in the span of about a week. What does that mean in English? Changes. Big ones, and they’ve been a long time coming. The 5th brings communication which foreshadows these events so, listen up. By the 15th, you’ll bear witness to some serious Karmic justice. It could be a boon or a bitch-slap but, it sure as hell won’t be subtle. Finally, when the sun enters your sign on the 21st, you’ll see how this all impacts your life, directly. Yeah. Good luck with that.

Aquarius

This is the month to do some serious Feng Shui, both literally and metaphorically. Give away old clothes, re-arrange your furniture and give yourself a clean slate. That may include cutting ties with some of the people from whom you’ve found yourself drifting apart. If you make room in your life by removing the stale and the stagnant, you’ll be a walking electromagnet for fresh, new energy. Figure out what you want and declare your needs in the affirmative. If you play your cards right, significant personal and financial changes can be seen as early as December 7th.

Pisces

Your personal philosophy is getting a makeover. You find yourself strangely attracted to some of the concepts and principles you’ve never considered to be all that important, before now. Just go with it. Explore a new perspective. Even if you decide it’s not going to become your new religion, it’s a great way to shoehorn yourself out of a rut. The end of the month breathes new life into your personal dreams, goals and ambitions, grounding them in reality rather than letting them wither away in the realm of insubstantial theory.

About Forest

Forest is available by appointment for personal astrology and tarot readings by calling 818-906-8263. You can also visit her website: NuiCobalt.com