"SKYE": TOP & SKIRT by ASTERIA - Designer: JHENIFFER

Beyond the Avatar: The Art and Soul of Being a Second Life Model

When someone hears “model in Second Life,” they probably picture an avatar walking down a virtual runway dressed in digital haute couture. But those of us who have spent years in this virtual world know that being a model in Second Life goes far beyond that image. It’s about commitment, artistry, technique—and above all, identity. Because behind every step we take on that runway lies hours of preparation, a passion for aesthetics, and a deep desire to express something more than just fashion.

My avatar is not just a pretty figure—it’s an extension of my creativity, my ideas, my vision, my voice.and what I want to express. The modeling industry helped me discover and define who I am within the SL

universe. From the style I choose to the projects I take part in, everything is part of an identity I’ve built step by step, fashion show after fashion show, complemented by classes and mentoring by the best people SL gave me as a gift in my modeling journey. And when we realize that SL is a space where we can be whoever we want to be, choosing to become a model is both an aesthetic and emotional decision. It’s a way of saying, “this is who I am, and this is what I want to show the world.”

Second Life models are required to have more professional training and skill  than Real Life models.We must master tools, understand the language of virtual fashion, stay updated with technical developments (bodies, heads, BOM, poses, etc.), understand trends, maintain a committed attitude and show up with grace and precision every time. There is no improvisation—it’s rehearsal, dedication, long hours of work, and a constant desire to improve. You need to walk in a perfect straight line, manage timing, attend fittings, styling checks, rehearsals, castings… and do it all without ever losing elegance,  confidence, attitude, and humility.

But unlike real-life models, we don’t have a backstage team. No one’s dressing us, doing our makeup, styling our hair or prepping the scene. We do it all. We choose every piece, every hairstyle, every accessory, every layer of makeup and every pose. We are stylists, makeup artists, trend analysts, and technical experts—all at once. That’s why being a model in SL also means being a multidisciplinary professional, someone who understands every part of the process, masters every detail, and brings it all together to showcase a designer’s creation in the best possible way. Because in SL, the outfit doesn’t make us look amazing—we make the outfit look amazing. And that is a responsibility we proudly embrace.

Every styling is a statement. Every photo shoot, a narrative. Every pose tells a story. Every runway show is a full production. We don’t model just to show clothes—we model to evoke emotion. It’s a language beyond words, crossing screens and pixels, connecting hearts from all over the world

Over time, I’ve learned that being a model also means paving the way for others. As a director of an academy and agency, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring so many aspiring models—watching them find their strength, define their style, discover their voice. I’ve learned that sharing knowledge and encouraging others to never settle for less than perfection—guiding them on their path to the top and watching them succeed—is my greatest reward. In a career that can sometimes be very competitive, I believe the true legacy lies in inspiring others, in lifting one another and building networks. Because shared success makes us shine much brighter.

Being a model in SL isn’t just about looking good—it’s about building a story, leaving a mark, and inspiring others. Beyond the avatar, we are artists, communicators, creators. And that’s something worth telling... and living. Because every step we take on a virtual runway carries more than just technique and style—it carries a piece of who we are.

Being a model in SL is not just a role—it’s a gift. A genuine offering of our true self, not just from the virtual but from the real. A way to show the world who is behind the avatar… and always do it with beauty, passion, and truth.

With love…

Ponchituti Boucher