Without a shadow of a doubt, music and fashion are key elements in our scene. Think of the songs that come to mind upon the sight of the many indie designers within our scene and how one influences the other. As we coast through the cooler months, I thought I’d offer up a contest for the most celebrated topics of our subculture, and see our readers’ interpretations of music.

Below are three songs available for your listening via mp3 stream. Listen to each one and create a fashion illustration, male or female, for each song, based on however the music inspires you.

Song 1 – Amber by Ashengrace (from the album, Sandstorm)

Song 2 – Whore Money by The Brides (from their self-titled 2004 release)

Song 3 – Footfalls by Null Device (from the album, Sublimation)

Entries can be submitted via email or snail mail. Emailed entries should be between 500x500 to 900x900 pixels, at 72 dpi, saved as a high quality JPEG. You can send them to mistress at morbidoutlook.com with “Painted Melodies” in the title.

Snail mail entries should be no larger than an 8.5" x 11" piece of paper, and should be mailed flat, not folded. If you wish to have your illustrations returned, be sure to include an SASE. Send your work to:

Do not forget to include your name, snail mail and email address with your designs! This contest is open to all of our readers, from the U.S. and beyond!

Only one entry (containing the three fashion design illustrations) permitted per person. Please label each entry clearly, so we know which song goes with which illustration. All entries must be received by December 1, 2005 for consideration for the contest. There will be a winner and a runner-up announced in the December issue of Morbid Outlook.

Special thanks to our sponsors, who will be providing some fantastic prizes:

• Middle Pillar/Hell’s Hundred Records
• Devil and Mouse
• Grave Images
• Pushin Daisies
• Arsenic Fashions

Feel free to write in with any questions and good luck!