Don't Call Moi Sir

Three Faces Who Should Win Bb. Pilipinas 2013 (Ms. Philippines) Crown

2013-04-12T04:28:00.001-04:00

Pageant-crazy Filipinos from all over the world, or the universe for that matter, are all agog over this Sunday's Bb. Pilipinas. Not only it's the pageant's 50th year of crowning the most beautiful Filipinas to send to international competitions, but also it's because the country is on its unprecedented winning streak in the Miss Universe contest.

This year 50 gorgeous young women have been plucked from the barrios and universities by beauty experts and handlers to compete for Miss Universe Philipines 2013 - undoubtedly the most coveted title at stake on Sunday, April 14, during the hours-long coronation night at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City - home of the Bb. Pilipinas since its inception in 1964. While three other titles are also at stake, it is the Miss U crown that has whipped such a feverish frenzy among fans and spectators.

Like them, I've been following this year's pageant like no other in recent memory. I don't remember being invested in Bb. Pilipinas with my precious time and effort like now although I worked once as a researcher and writer for ABS-CBN during the 1995 Bb. Pilipinas. I'm sure, not unlike every other fan out there, the main reason for such devotion is that we are all hoping this year will witness the crowning of the third Miss Universe from the Philippines. And that is after more than 40 years of near misses and losses.

Last December I was privileged to watch Miss Universe live in Las Vegas where Miss Philippines Janine Tugonon almost won the crown, placing runner up to USA's Olivia Culpo. Almost but not quite. This year could be our lucky year especially as we witness the toughest competition in the local pageant ever with the best batch of beauties vying for the prestigious crown.

There have been many words said, comments made, insults hurled, and fights ensued but in the end only one must be sent to the Miss Universe finals later this year. Who should it be? Amid the noise of buzz and drumbeat of fans and supporters, who among the 50 girls has the x-factor written all over her to finally win the third crown for the country?

Out of the 50, I only have three faces and names whom I expect to see and hear on stage come Sunday night: Binibini #1 Ria Rabajante, 23; Binibini #33 Parul Shah, 24; and Binibini #39 Mutya Johanna Datul, 20. The rest can just stand at the back and clap for these three. They should because I don't think they deserve to win as much as the holy trinity of the Bb. Pilipinas 2013. Let me explain why.

The three possess elegance, extraordinary personality, and undeniable beauty, especially Mutya who is bar none the most beautiful candidate in this batch or in recent years. Their looks are indelible and dare I say it unforgettable in that you know their faces stand out among hordes of other equally stunning beauty queens. They look refreshing and exciting with loads of sex appeal. They are definitely very Filipino in facial features who can out-face the glamazons of Europe and South America in the international arena.

From what I've seen they also have magnetic stage presence, exceptional runway skills, and the drive to excel and do more than what is expected from them. While the interview has been the Philippines' Achilles heels in pageants I have no doubt with proper training and confidence-boosting skills, these three can nail the questions thrown at them. Even Mutya with her thick regional accent and lack of English proficiency. After all, it was Janine who proclaimed to loud cheers and applause last December that you don't have to speak the English language to be Miss Universe.

So if I am right and the planets align and the lucky stars are with Ria, Parul, and Mutya, expect them to shine brightly and loudly this Sunday night. Wanna bet?

She Wasn't Robbed ...

2012-12-20T02:46:00.001-05:00

Miss Philippines ended up as runner-up to Miss USA in the just concluded Miss Universe 2012 held in Las Vegas.

It is yet another hometown victory which has wracked other pageants this year, including Miss World and Miss International.

Both Olivia Culpo of USA and Janine Tugonon of the Philippines did well during the two-hour extravaganza and were in my opinion neck and neck in the three categories running up to the crowning of Culpo. In the end, it was the choice of the judges and they thought Culpo would have been a good Miss Universe.

After all, the organization is still an enterprise and she's a great marketer. In this end, I don't think Janine was robbed of the crown.

More to come tomorrow.

It was in the final question that both really shone and made them stand outs among the other candidates in the top 5.

And the new Miss Universe is ...

2012-12-19T05:16:00.001-05:00

Predicting Miss Universe winners is like predicting the end of the world. You have a tiny chance of being correct. But of course, anyone can make a list and second-guess what the judges will pick as the most beautiful woman in the world.

In my list below, I have chosen the girls who have stood out among the 89 candidates this year - either during the preliminary competition or who could be Donald Trump's chosen ones. There is also one candidate who will be named in the top 16 through Internet voting.

The list, grouped by three and in random order:

1. Chile, Ecuador, and Jamaica: I won't be surprised if both Ecuador and Chile make it as semifinalists. Both have refreshing looks that are not typically Latina. Jamaica, on the other hand, has a strong stage presence.

2. Czech Republic, Croatia, and Paraguay: All gorgeous women who can take it all the way to top 5. Croatia particularly strikes me as the candidate to beat. The crown is all hers as long as she can shine on tonight's finale.

3. Australia, South Africa, and Georgia: These three are definitely going to be called in the top 16. A lot of pageant experts have predicted South Africa to win it all but I find her too polished that she seems to have lost a sense of surprise about her.

4. Venezuela, Mexico, and Puerto Rico: Three pageant powerhouses who almost always get called during the finals night or win the crown. But these three women failed to wow me. Yes they are all prepared and competitive but somehow they lack a certain oomph. I won't be surprised if Venezuela's or Mexico's names aren't in the top 16 tonight.

5. China, the Philippines, and Malaysia: China isn't as stunning as last year's who became 4th runner-up but I have a feeling she will be called this time again. Malaysia sent its best candidate after last year who was favored to win in Brazil but didn't make the cut for some reason. In Las Vegas, they must call Malaysia in the top 16 as she's done as well and also to avenge the injustice.

Now Philippines, my sentimental favorite, has done really well and she will likely to continue the winning streak. I just hope she doesn't fuck up the question and answer and the crown is hers to lose.

6. USA, Brazil, and Guatemala: I love USA and she has a great chance of winning it all the way. Brazil could be the Internet winner and Guatemala will likely make the cut if China won't.

So there you have it. Anyone among these women will be named Miss Universe 2012. If the world does end on Friday, she will have the shortest reign ever in its history.

Ready for the Universe

2012-12-18T12:53:00.001-05:00

Las Vegas is ready and so is Planet Hollywood . Are you ready for Miss Universe?

Nearly 90 gorgeous women from around the world are competing for the much-coveted crown. Already, missosologists, pageant experts, beauty enthusiasts and fans have hedged their favorites and are betting on few of the girls.

Beauty empires and powerhouses such as Venezuela, Puerto Rico, South Africa, Mexico and the Philippines are favored to win the crown tomorrow night in Las Vegas.

Of course I have my favorites. I'll post my list tonight. In the meantime, I heard there's a last-minute arrival of a delegate who has shaken up the competition. Meet Dawn Selya representing Galapagos Islands. Will she be the new Miss Universe ? Tune in December 19 and find out.

Things I've bought that I love: Sheets

2012-12-01T15:10:00.001-05:00

We spend a third (or more) of our lives in bed so why not indulge and invest on your beddings?

Recently I came across the collaboration between Target and cult fave Patch NYC on home pieces. I got one of their duvet covers and got this wonderful tribal print in green. I love it! This is perfect for my
bedroom - and the Irish man who occasionally sleeps in my bed.

Carrie Bradshaw Had a Birthday Bash in Jersey

2012-11-29T13:53:00.000-05:00

A week of celebration

Small parties

For fans of Sex and the City (the HBO series, not the disappointing films that followed it), you may remember that at one point a realtor gave Carrie Bradshaw a dressing down and the possibility of moving into Weehawken, NJ while she was looking for an apartment to rent in Manhattan. So what if Carrie indeed move into the suburbs, what could have happened?

Well Carrie the pretender (that's moi!) had a birthday milestone (33 years old as if!) and as they say it was a blast without the bang. It was quiet, small, intimate and yet full of love and grace - quite a departure from my parties of yore.

So many cakes and candles to blow

It was a week of celebration, of surprises and joys. First, my two bestest co-workers Natt and Mint surprised me with a cake and a song from the crew of Joe Crab Shack on a Monday during my birthday week, a gas card from my family in Connecticut on Thanksgiving, two yummy cakes and a bouquet of flowers from my boss Rodgee on my birth date (Nov. 23), brunch with my bitches last Sunday, and a brunch and a movie with my Aleksandr just this Monday.

No my birthday wasn't all about gifts, presents, and dinners. It was all about feeling blessed and loved by the people who are in your life. I am humbled by y'all. Thank you for making my 33rd birthday yet another milestone. Carrie Bradshaw would have been bawled over by this, if you ask me.

Rocking Margiela

2012-11-25T19:26:00.001-05:00

Maison Martin Margiela x H&M is not an easy look to pull off especially if you are into effortless style. But a little tweaking goes a long way in wearing a piece from the latest designer collaboration.

Here I am wearing the trompe l'oeil evening dress ($99) with a leather jacket from Express, pumps from Arden B, aviator glasses from H&M, and quilted chain purse from DKNY.

The look is meant to evoke glam and edgy but appropriate for a brunch date with friends. Indeed an effortless style!

Maison Martin Margiela x H&M: A Postscript

2012-11-24T08:46:00.000-05:00

My ass shopping MMM

H&M window at Garden State Plaza

I forsook Black Friday shopping this year primarily because ~~I don't have a rich sugar daddy~~ I'm broke. I'm cash-strapped these days, as was the case in the last few years, because of that damn H&M designer collaboration which occurs around this time every year.

Yep, I proudly admit I'm a sucker for cheap high fashion-slash-haute couture-slash-designer label thrill. I live for fashion and hey, I'm a working girl with a secret fetish for luxury goods I can never afford. Don't begrudge me for fawning on so-called masstige trend. Besides they cost a fraction of the original although they are of less superior quality. Wait, would you rather I go to prison for stealing but nonetheless draped in Chanel or be free as a bird dressed in second-rate fabrics sold at H&M with a designer label on the garment tag?

My loot

The choice is/was clear. So I dragged my ass last week, precisely at the crack of dawn on Nov. 15, to the Garden State Plaza in Paramus, New Jersey to line up for the Maison Martin Margiela x H&M collaboration. There wasn't really a line because few showed up this time compared to the Lanvin or the Versace masstige and maybe because for the first time I decided to not be in Manhattan where lines are around the block and shoppers are crazier. So my shopping jaunt was less stressful with fewer shoppers to fight with over a clutch or a jacket.

The huge garment tag

To be fair, Margiela doesn't have the same cache and aesthetic as the two previous guest designers. He's avant-garde for god's sake! I've known him or seen his designs over the years but I'd never in a million years think I can pull off his look. In short I'm not a fan. However, I do love some of the pieces they came up with in this collaboration because these are re-edition of the iconic designs that have endeared Margiela to the fashion set. Take a look at the items that ~~bled my Versace wallet dry~~ I came away with that morning vis-a-vis the original, high-end pieces.

Narrow shoulder jacket from H&M($99) and its S/S 1989 edition

The sold-out candy clutch ($59.95) in silver and the mirror ball leggings ($39.95) (above); the original candy clutch from 2010

Trompe l'oeil evening dress ($99) and the S/S 1996 edition

Unfortunately I didn't get to buy the oversize jeans because the Paramus store didn't carry it. I read NYC stores have sold out this item too, so are the clutches in both pink and silver. But many in the 104-piece collaboration are still available even a week after, unlike Lanvin and Versace whose items were sold out hours after they went on sale and were later priced four-fold on eBay.

To say MMM x HM is a big flop is an understatement but that doesn't take away the fact that this collaboration is more art than glam. Yes they are wearable but a few would dare wear them. I'm lucky to be among the daring ones even if it cost me an arm and a leg. Call me cheap, I don't really give a damn.

Thanksgiving, Birthday and an Apology

2012-11-23T14:06:00.000-05:00

Yesterday when I was younger than today

Thanks, but no thanks.

Since coming to America, I've had to share my birthday with the Thanksgiving celebration - and Black Friday too. I loathe that. It used to be I had all the spotlight to myself and now Dawn has to divvy up her special day to a freaking turkey - and the mayhem over discount shopping? Give moi a break!

Oh I'm whining and it's the whine of an aging T girl. A T girl needs all the attention to herself on her birthday and this is the only way I get yours amid the frenzy of mass hysteria in the malls and outlet stores. And I'm not done yet with my gripes, oh no no - especially now that I have added YET another year to my age.

I love you L'Oreal

Yesterday I had to color each strand of my hair to cover the grey which stubbornly shows up every three minutes, more often now, in bigger area than ever. Of course I hate dyeing my hair and such an act is anathema to being forever young. I know I could opt out to go bald or wear a wig but that would be anathema to staying fabulous, don't you think?

Seriously it took me an hour to finish the job, rinsing, drying and all. But when I viewed the result of the painstaking hair color process, the grey are still visible in small patches on top of my head which makes it look like the Indonesian archipelago. Well, I may need a root touch-up very soon to correct it - and there goes the cycle of my love affair with L'Oreal.

Thanksgiving: I like being surrounded by kids coz I feel young

Coloring my hair has been a ritual for me around my birthday for years now primarily because I need to look good for my fab party that I've been throwing for the past 10 years or so. Not this year, I mean no orgy or any party for me in 2012. Since I've become homeless for nearly a year now, I don't have a place to gather all my beautiful friends to have fun on my birthday. I called the Ritz Carlton and they told me they were booked way in advance for November 23. Madison Square Garden is too big a venue for us, right? So I think I'm just gonna have an intimate birthday dinner with few select friends - the Chosen Ones, so to speak, this weekend after the Black Friday panic. See and read what happens here in my blog.

Speaking of moi blog, I have to apologize to dear friends and fans for being away for so long. So sorry my jet setting life has lent this fabulous blog inactive for like forever and left such a huge hole in your humdrum lives. Or maybe I lead such a boring life that I've got nothing to write anymore? I so don't want to bore you readers with my trip to the grocery stores that I've chosen instead to keep this - my blog - idle.

However, Carrie Bradshaw has called and she ~~wants~~ begs me to carry on her legacy. Thus with a flip of my greying hair and the clanking of my Manolos, I've opted to make her happy. If I have one birthday each year, then certainly my blog can have a re-birth every now and then. Isn't that right?

Dawn at 33: moi through the years

Call me a liar but I'm sticking to my guns - whatever you've heard and caught up on in the rumor mill, I am REALLY 33 years old. By the way, I spent my Thanksgiving yesterday with a fabulous dinner at my younger brother's home in Connecticut who is 32 41 years old FYI. I sat in front of him in the dinner table with a wine glass in my hand, and this thought fogging my mind: how the hell did he out-age me? I couldn't help but wonder why is this happening when I used to be older than him. And then just like that, I realized it's because I'm that fabulous!

Yellow Fever

2012-06-06T13:23:00.000-04:00

Pride 2012 costumes

Joy, happiness, hope, cowardice, deceit - however you view your yellow, it will be sunshine and all for us come the Pride March celebration in New York. On June 24, Sunday, watch a group of fabulous Transpinays catwalk their way on Fifth Ave. in Manhattan in their glorious yellow costumes. It will be yet another memorable celebration for us.

This is the seventh year in a row that I have joined in the LGBT march - undeniably the biggest in the world. We've done almost all the colors of rainbow for our eye-catching costumes - gold in 2006, orange in 2007, green in 2008, purple in 2009, turquoise in 2010, and red last year.

As usual, our resident costume designer Vera Wang Wang i.e. Germaine is doing her best to make the most fabulous costumes during the parade. So get your yellow fever on, tie a yellow ribbon, or wear a yellow polka dot bikini and watch us march with pride on a sunshiny Sunday in the city. Mark your calendar: June 24, 2012.

Uncouple/Couple

2012-06-05T12:08:00.000-04:00

Single and fabulous! Or is it?

The thing is if I were to become a sex columnist here in moi blog, then I need to come clean regarding my relationship status. It's, in Facebook parlance, complicated.

In nearly 10 months since the breakup of my relationship with my Aleksandr Petrovsky, I have gone out on dates on few occasions but none of them seriously. I've met a lot of men, made out with some, gone to bed with a handful. In short my social-slash-sex life has been in full gear but my heart, my fragile heart, remains cold. After the trauma of my 31/2-year fairy tale, I've shut myself off from the possibility of another commitment.

So a single T girl I shall remain at least in the next five years. What's not to like being single if it's my choice? I get to do whatever I want, go out on a trip whenever I get the itch, and I never have to ask any one's permission or apologize for my single behavior. It's the kind of life I secretly wished when I was with my Aleksandr.

And Aleksandr? He was and, admittedly, is still a part of my life. Weeks after I left his home, he did try to win me back. He asked for a reconciliation but I stood my ground. Dawn is single and fabulous! - I'd tell him. We had our breakup sex when I came to retrieve my stuff on October last year on his birthday (!). It was bittersweet, sort of a closure.

The best part of that encounter was saying goodbye properly for the last time. Little did I know it would keep the flames alive. Communications never actually stopped. Phone calls, text messages, a few nocturnal visits every now and then. It was like we were back together, just not living together. He'd tell me it reminded him of when we were first dating back in 2007. Then I thought Holy crap! What have I done?

So that's where I am or where we are barely three months before the anniversary of the uncoupling. But I must be clear with this, we are not a couple. In fairness to me, I've made it known to him in no uncertain terms that we are not back together. And in fairness to him, I've said that he is the last man I loved.

How do you make of this relationship? We are the best of friends, we enjoy the company of one another, we have great sex, we sleep over in each other's place, we go out, and we plan to go on a trip soon. Someone has said to me that Aleksandr and I are definitely getting back together. Are we really?

The thing is I'm not willing to give up my independence any moment now. And I'm afraid a committed relationship is going to fuck it all up. If I were to make a choice, I'd certainly pick being single without hesitation. Is there a better option than that when you are having the best of time free from any kind of relationship drama?

Single and fabulous? Definitely. And mind you with an exclamation point.

Wonder Woman of the Day: Olivia Culpo

2012-06-04T13:54:00.003-04:00

Olivia Culpo, 20, USA! I can just hear her scream these words during the 2012 Miss Universe pageant later this year. Last night, the self-confessed Rhode Island nerd was crowned Miss USA beating 50 other states in a glittery show held in Las Vegas.

In truth, she wasn't my bet nor anyone of the missosologists. After all, she isn't your typical pageant queen. Shorter than most of the more gorgeous girls on the stage, she made up for her lack of height with sensible answer to a tough question during the final minutes of the competition.

Q: "Would you feel it would be fair that a transgender woman wins the Miss USA title over a natural-born woman?"

A: "I do think that that would be fair but I can understand that people would be a little apprehensive to take that road because there is a tradition of natural-born women, but today where there are so many surgeries and so many people out there who have a need to change for a happier life, I do accept that because I believe it's a free country."

The audience erupted in cheers. Right then I knew she got the crown in the bag. The answer, devoid of moral judgment and religious self-righteousness, nailed it. Of course, T girls like me watching her defending our right ~~to be beauty queens~~ for equality and acceptance in front of pageant-loving audience teared up and made her our instant Wonder Woman.

Contrast Olivia's honesty with that of a former beauty queen - Miriam Quiambao of the Philippines. Let her series of tweets speak for themselves and how she is as a person. Miriam placed 1st runner-up during the Miss Universe pageant in 1999, a crown she almost won had she not clammed up during the final question and answer. And here she is at it again:

Hate the sin. Love the sinner. We have all sinned... Forgiveness comes from God. Grace comes to those who believe. Peace!

Miriam Quiambao

a month ago

Reply Retweet
Homosexuality is not a sin but it is a lie from the devil. Do not be deceived. God loves gays and wants them to know the truth.

Miriam Quiambao

a month ago

Reply Retweet
LGBT or straight, man or woman, young or old, we all deserve love, respect and acceptance. We all need a savior on Jesus Christ. God loves u

Miriam Quiambao

I admit I was a fan when Miriam almost took home the third Miss U crown for my beloved country. She was for a time a role model and inspiration as I had started my career then as a beauty queen. She was elegance and class personified with a hint of assertiveness. I don't know what has happened to her ever since. Religion, perhaps. The kind of extremism not unlike of what Muslim terrorists have espoused to justify their acts? I don't know. I'm no saint.

Olivia is 20. Miriam is 37. Both are Christians. So what has made the difference? One is a Wonder Woman, and the other is a Catwoman, maybe. The former will save the day for you and the latter will make it like hell. Thank you Olivia for standing up for us! May you win the mother of all crowns in December - Miss Universe.

A Fresh Start

2012-06-04T12:10:00.002-04:00

Everyone deserves another chance and everything deserves a fresh start. So on this note, I'm relaunching my long-dormant blog Don't Call Moi Sir with a new look, a more dynamic layout, bolder perspectives, and with fresh vigor and more determination than ever.

It has been five years since I first began (May, 2007) this journal-writing online which I've always considered a matter of self-discovery through words. And since then, I have transformed myself from an awkward, highly-insecure ugly boy to a self-assured, confident and fabulous T girl. I've come a long way, baby - from a love-obsessed Carrie Bradshaw wanna-be to a highly independent, self-supporting working girl and, with high hopes in the near future, to a Gloria Steinem-like T girl activist minus the bra burning.

I don't know about you but despite the changes, I have remained the same pea-brained, grammar-challenged person with a penchant for drama, for a dose of wit, even a dash of glamour, and most significantly for loads of fun with people who have come in and out of my life. You've read my 883 posts (written since 2007) - well not every single of them of course unless you have nothing much better to do. You know very well what has gone right and wrong in my life so far or what has succeeded and failed. I'm proud to say I'm not ashamed of them.

What I am ashamed of, however, is letting this blog inactive for the past few months. Believe me when I say so much things - heck, exciting ones! - have happened in my life in all those months when I was always tempted to write down my thoughts and feelings here for all of you to read and mock. I do regret my shortcomings - to my loyal readers and to you my friends and lovers who await with bated breath every single entry I post here. Isn't it ironic that when my life is actually happening I've turned tongue-tied for the first time?

Well, those days are gone, fingers crossed and tongue untied. I've resolved to write down my thoughts, feelings, and experiences once again. I promise from now on to share them with you the moment they happen, a bit embellished maybe but as always uncut and uncensored. This a fresh start yet again and I truly deserve one, don't I? Please welcome moi back!

Trans FTS: Beautiful Killers

2012-04-11T01:45:00.000-04:00

Royalty: Beautiful Killers

Absolutely no excuse! That's all I'm gonna say - a month after I last posted something or anything in moi blog. And this latest post, thank God for giving me the time to write one at least, is all about Jing's birthday soiree that happened more than three weeks ago. Yes, it's late and as they say it's better late than never. Don't you agree with me mystery guy who lives on 42nd st and 7th ave.?

So the bitches of New York turned heads once again when they came and conquered Carmine's on Times Square. Pinned, stuck and strapped on their pretty big heads were killer hats and hairpieces that could rival the snooty guests to royal weddings, Ascot affairs, Kentucky Derby, or dare I say Downton Abbey. Habitues and diners at the tourists-filled restaurants were startled to see these gorgeous ladies parading up the staircase in their beautiful outfits and head fashion.

Since it was also St. Patrick's Day, they were probably not surprised anymore since anything could happen on this revered Irish holiday. In celebration of which, our birthday girl went green all the way, including a headpiece that featured butterflies and flowers. There were also ribbons, lace, tulle, and feathers that adorned the heads of the rest of the party.

Scroll down and see for yourself. Then pick your Star Style Headpiece Edition and vote in the box on the upper right hand corner. Please show me your love and vote, vote, vote. I want to keep writing but I need you to motivate me. I know I've been bad - but that's just moi being lazy, if you ask me.

Jing

dress by Versace, shoes by Giuseppe Zanotti

headdress with butterflies and feathers

Belle

dress by Spanx, shoes by Jessica Simpson

headdress given by an Irish guy from the parade earlier

Mya

dress by Ashley Stewart, boots by Zappos

headdress made of tulle and feathers

Joyce

Top and skirt by Bebe, shoes by Prada

headpiece made of tulle and feathers

Apple

Floral dress by DVF, shoes by Brian Atwood

headpiece made of tulle and feathers

Boots

dress haute couture, shoes by Prada

fiery headpiece made of feathers (and I can see that beautiful pointy nose - nice profile!)

Leah

color blocking! my best dressed of the night! top and skinny jeans by 7 for All Mankind

glittery headpiece made of tulle and feathers

Katrina

pantsuit by Banana Republic, shoes by Sam Edelman

a little hat with pearls, ribbons and brooch

Naima

bandage dress by Herve Leger, shoes by Christian Louboutin

headpiece made of tulle and ribbon

Germaine

dress by Chanel, shoes by Payless

headpiece made of tulle and ribbons

Dawn

Channeling Victoria Beckham, pants and suit byGucci, purse by Roberto Cavalli, and pumps by Manolo Blahnik

headpiece made of tulle and ostrich feathers

So who is your Star Style Headpiece Edition? Make your voice heard and vote now!

B-Day Song

2012-03-11T14:11:00.002-04:00

The blue bloods are invading Times Square ... and on St. Patrick's Day! Gird your loins boys as the cast of Downton Abbey or the outcast of British royalty - queens, princesses, empresses, duchesses, are coming to Carmines to celebrate my BFF Jing's birthday. Indeed, a gorgeous girl deserves a fabulous ... and royal party! See you March 17 ...

Oscars! Oscars!

2012-02-26T11:15:00.000-05:00

For movie lovers and awards freak like me, tonight is our Super Bowl - the Oscars! I may not be an Academy voter but I sure do cast my votes by watching the most-buzzed films with my own hard-earned money.

I've enjoyed many of the films that got nominated this year. Front-runner The Artist is a joy to watch, an uplifting homage to silent films. Hugo is also of the same vein, a film that pays tribute to old style filmmaking. Although Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close didn't get much love from critics and audiences, it touched my heart and made me wept like a child. See it on DVD.

The Help is the only film among the 9 Best Picture nominees that became box-office hits. I'm not surprised as it tackles history very relevant in American society. It is emotionally cathartic and the ensemble performances are topnotch. War Horse is classic Steven Spielberg as it tugs at your heart.

Also, Midnight in Paris is classic Woody Allen with sharp dialogue and fantastical premise. Moneyball, the Brad Pitt movie, I didn't care that much. The Tree of Life, on the other hand, took me a while to absorb its theme. In the end, it is a philosophical film that tries to dissect the meaning of life.

But if there is one film that is my favorite among the nominees, it is The Descendants. George Clooney is so good in the film that I'm hoping he wins for Best Actor tonight. It is a character-driven film without the pizazz of The Artist, a film which I think, good or bad, will dominate the Oscars. So on this note, let me handicap tonight's ceremony.

Best Picture: The Artist will win/ The Descendants should win
Best Director: Michel Hazanavicius (The Artist)/ Martin Scorsese (Hugo)
Best Actor: Jean Dujardin (The Artist)/ George Clooney (The Descendants)
Best Actress: Viola Davis (The Help)/ Meryl Streep (The Iron Lady)
Best Supporting Actor: Christopher Plummer (Beginners)/ Christopher Plummer (Beginners)
Best Supporting Actress: Octavia Spencer (The Help)/ Octavia Spencer (The Help)

Meryl Streep deserves to win her third Oscar for playing Margaret Thatcher but I doubt she could pull it off as Viola Davis, very moving in The Help, has gained momentum after winning the Screen Actors Guild Awards. The only two sure winners in the acting categories are Christopher Plummer and Octavia Spencer who have won all the major awards leading up to the Oscars.

For the other categories, here are my predictions:

Adapted Screenplay: The Descendants
Original Screenplay: The Artist
Animated Feature Film: Rango
Foreign Language Film: A Separation (Iran)

Documentary (Feature): Pina
Documentary (Short): The Tsunami and the Cherry Blossom
Short Film (Animated): Wild Life
Short Film (Live Action): Pentecost
Art Direction: Hugo
Cinematography: The Artist
Costume Design: Hugo
Film Editing: The Artist
Makeup: The Iron Lady
Music (Original Score): The Artist
Music (Original Song): The Muppets
Sound Editing: The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
Sound Mixing: Hugo
Visual Effects: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2

A Supermodel Portfolio

2012-02-25T16:15:00.000-05:00

Like any other mortal, I have always dreamed of becoming another Kate Moss. Although I have yet to achieve a supermodel status, I won't stop posing in pictures just like her or any of her ilk.

Say what you want, last I heard this is a free country and I can do whatever I want, right? So if you don't wanna be exposed to the apex of my vanity, stop right here. Otherwise you can proceed. Don't tell me I didn't warn you, ok?

So last weekend we went on a trip to Long Island, NY for an R and R - some wine trail, and then a search for lighthouse just off the Long Island Sound. It was a good thing that as dusk set in, we were there to capture the beauty of nature - and most importantly, of moi.

I didn't even have to use a digital camera, just an iPhone would suffice so I thought. Thank God for the Instagram app, I manipulated the color and texture of the photos. And excuse me, there was no airbrushing or photoshopping involved. It was just me, my iPhone, and nature. A perfect trifecta, isn't it?

Take a look and marvel. I'm just hoping someone out there would stumble upon these photos and make me a supermodel. Take that, Kate Moss!

Supermodel Portfolio 2012

Moi's Five Prettiest: Music

2012-02-11T02:23:00.000-05:00

Music makes the people come together yeah - so Madonna sang on her hit song Music which she performed recently at the Super Bowl. But this post is not about her, it's all about the music that came and went in 2011.

In honor of the Grammy Awards which will be given out this Sunday, I'm now about to reveal five hits and five misses in the music field the past year. This list maybe supermegalate but as they say better late than never. These are the singles and/or albums that moved me over the last 12 months. One important footnote though: this is by no means exhaustive and all inclusive. After all, I only have two ears and I can only listen so much.

Hits

1. 21 - Adele - Who could escape the ubiquitous Adele in 2011? Not only that she has dominated the charts since last year but she also has ruled the airwaves with the soulful sophomore album simply called 21. From the angry Rolling in the Deep to the searing ballad Someone Like You, everyone I bet has an Adele story to tell. Here's one: she helped me get over my breakup. And for that, she deserves to win the Grammys and all the accolades.

2. Moves Like Jagger - Maroon 5 featuring Christina Aguilera - The swagger and charm of Adam Levine coupled with the soaring voice of Xtina have made everyone forget that the song is about Mick Jagger. A thumping dance beat can help you move just like the Rolling Stone lead singer.

3. S&M/We Found Love - Rihanna - These two top hits and club anthems from Rihanna proved that despite her tragic romance the singer is out to conquer everything, including love.

4. Nothing But the Beat - David Guetta - Music doesn't only make the people come together, it also can make you dance. And nothing stood out last year as prominent as DJ David Guetta who collaborated with a host of stars and singers to come up with fresh beats on this high-energy album. Nothing feels as good as a collection of dance smashes on a bad day.

5. On The Floor - Jennifer Lopez - I admit even I fell for this club hit which resurrected the moribund career of a once Latina superstar and made her hot again at least for American Idol producers. Sadly this is the only single worth the money in her album called Love?. Question mark!

Misses

1. Born This Way - Lady Gaga - Crucify me now for not liking this latest album from Lady Gaga. The actual product unfortunately didn't live up to the hype. She also copied Madonna. After declaring it herself as the greatest album of the century, it turned out the songs paled in comparison to a less polished The Fame which was a lot more fun and more honest, don't you think?

2. I Remember Me - Jennifer Hudson - After losing a million pounds, it seems Jennifer Hudson has lost her voice too. This album is just boring. Bring back the fat Hudson please. Not!

3. 4 - Beyonce - What's happening to our divas? Simply this latest from Beyonce is just bad. Four her!

4. American Idol - You're 15 minute is up. Time to go away - now! And also take with you The Voice and X-Factor. Remember Adele went to a performing arts high school to hone her craft and didn't join a vote-driven singing contest to make her mark.

5. Internet leaks - Stop please you are ruining the pleasure of discovering new music without hearing demo versions of a song in progress.

Madonna at the Super Bowl: How Dare She!

2012-02-10T06:07:00.000-05:00

She pranced, posed, pompom-ed, and prayed her tiny, lithe frame at the giant Super Bowl last Sunday. She vogued, cartwheeled, and undulated in front of millions, or possibly billions worldwide, of people watching her 12-minute performance at halftime. Viewers were 1) awed; 2) disgusted; 3) amazed; 4) aghast; 5) entertained; or simply 6) bored by this act. Fans were thrilled obviously but haters, well, were angry. How dare her?, they asked.

Much has been said or written about Madonna's halftime show. Like her, the performance proved to be polarizing. The reviews were mixed to say the least. Well, I really don't care about what the critics and viewers thought of it. Because no matter what they say about Madonna - good or bad - I was, am, and will always be a die-hard fan. For me, loyalty is an important virtue and I'm a damn loyal fan, in good and in bad times, from her Virgin heydays through Erotica daze, to Swept Away fiasco to Confessions blitz.

I'm no longer surprised that the Queen of Pop would stage such a spectacle in a grand scale. After watching her four last concert tours live, I expect nothing less from her. The dramatic entrance atop a golden throne in a sea of lights and hunky gladiators is vintage Madonna. Even the arrangement of the songs - Vogue, Music, Like A Prayer and her latest single Give Me All Your Luvin - is unmistakably her. For a casual non-fan steeped in either old rock or today's auto tune music, this is just unappetizing. How dare her?, they asked.

At 53, Madonna is old enough to be a grandmother. If she wasn't as ambitious and driven, she could have stayed in the Midwest where she was born and could have given births instead like a rabbit once she turned 18. For ageists, seeing her making those moves with Nicki Minaj and M.I.A. was utterly unwatchable. They said she should rather retire and leave the dancing to nymphets, and the performing to imitators like Lady Gaga and Britney Spears. How dare her?, they asked.

Indeed, how dare Madonna skew the conventions, challenge the norms and even defy gravity? How dare her to keep working so hard when she has billions stashed somewhere? How dare her maintain her fame after nearly 30 years when stars like Lindsay Lohan flame out in two years? And how dare her spit on non-fans' faces so to speak and at Super Bowl at that?

With a hot single climbing the top of the charts, a new album MDNA set for release next month, a film she directed and financed in theaters right now as we speak, and a world tour simply called The Madonna Tour scheduled to begin in May, Madonna's fame and bank account are expected to rise even higher. There's no rest for the aging queen whether you like it or not. Now, who's laughing all the way to the bank? How dare her, indeed!

Mea Culpa

2012-02-10T05:20:00.001-05:00

Sorry. I have been remiss in my duty. I just can't find the inspiration to blab in moi blog. Hence the absence of any new post for nearly a month. Just like any writer worth his or her salt, I do find writing a bit of a drag, a task rather than a source of joy. Forgive me.

But this doesn't mean my life is boring. In fact for the past weeks I've been living my life exactly the way I want it - away from Internet or online. I've rediscovered the joys of simply being out there exploring and taking a journey to places I never even knew existed. And that's literally and figuratively.

Well, my hibernation is all water under the bridge. I'm here again in front of my laptop typing and sharing you the stories of my life. The bitch is back and she's going to be just nastier! Just you wait ...

Trans FTS: Madame T

2012-01-14T23:56:00.000-05:00

She was once an infamous woman known for her slutty ways. She was ahead of her times and has outlived her infamy through the Portrait Madame X, a work of art hanging at the Metropolitan Museum.

Madame X by John Singer Sargent

But this post is not about her, but about T girls who channel her style. Meet Madame T - or a bunch of pretenders to her notorious throne. Whereas Madame X was pale in the portrait and posing in a black satin dress with jeweled straps, "a dress that reveals and hides at the same time," our pretenders let it all out. Why be demure when you can be haughty?

So take a look at our Madame T and find out who among them embodies the essence of the infamous Madame X ...

Madame T #1: Germaine dons a corset and tight pants

Madame T #2: A see-thru dress fits Dawn to a T as it doesn't hide anything at all

Madame T #2: Ever alluring, Belle strikes a mysterious pose in a tube dress

Star Style on Christmas Eve is ...

2012-01-11T02:26:00.001-05:00

And the winner is ... not one of them!

We've all opened our Christmas gifts, dragged our fresh pine trees onto the curbside, and taken down all the holiday trimmings and decorations but we have yet to declare our one other shining star (beside Baby Jesus, of course) last December 24. The poll ended on New Year's Eve, and here we are on the eve of Chinese New Year we still have to name the stylish winner.

You've all made your choice, picked your winner, and voted for our Star Style on Christmas Eve. And she is no other than ... (fanfare please) ... Jing Valmorida!

Jing's Star Style billboard in New York

All wrapped up in red in a stunning cape dress designed by Donatella Versace, our perennial Star Style pick and consistent fashion plate has proven once again that you either have it or you're born with it or none at all - a line that wouldn't sit well with Ms. Belle Bandalan.

Her winning style and smile

Unfortunately the people have spoken and have given Ms. Valmorida an overwhelming 37.5% out of the five million votes tallied for this poll. Dawn, a perennial bridesmaid, placed second with 29.17%. Katrina is third with 12.5% while both Belle and Germaine are tied for fourth place with over 8% each.

All losers: Belle, 4th; Katrina, 3rd; and Dawn, 2nd

As our latest Star Style recipient and the last for 2011, you will receive a 20-foot tall fresh Douglas Fir tree for Christmas 2012 as well as 12 wreaths decorated by the one and only Martha Stewart and a ton of Christmas balls and garlands.

The grand prize which will be redeemed only in December 2012 is a chance to be the live angel on top of the giant Christmas tree at the Rockefeller Center which will be unveiled during the traditional lighting ceremony telecast live all over the world. To guarantee your safety from potential electrocution, we will insure you for $1 million with the MetLife whose beneficiaries will be the runners-up. And now they all think it's not that bad being losers...

How do you like to be on top of the giant tree, Jing?

Congratulations to you Jing and to all your runners-up!

As usual we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the fabulous ladies especially to the two who got zero vote. We know your hands are all tied in the back being used as a pawn for this travesty. (We know you want it!) Thank you also to our readers who keep voting not knowing this poll could be rigged. Just kidding!

Remember, each vote counts. And to all of you, winners, losers and fans, without you, this blog is dead.

Bitch Stole My Look!

2012-01-07T04:52:00.000-05:00

Left Bitch Dawn vs Right Bitch Jing - who wore it best?

Pardon moi Fashion Police of E! channel, I must steal your idea and transplant it into this blog if you don't mind.

I just can't fathom that two of our fashionable girls (or fashion victims?) wore the same dress designed by Donatella Versace for H&M. And that's just one week apart!

The Left Bitch is Dawn who donned the red cape dress (sold out!) for New Year's Eve parties in New York while the Right Bitch is Jing who sashayed in the same outfit during their Christmas Eve dinner. Who gave the stunning dress justice?

Now it's your chance to vote on the bitch who ran away with the hottest look. Click on your choice - and start bitchin' ala Joan Rivers!

Trans FTS: Twenty-Twelve Look

2012-01-07T04:09:00.000-05:00

Was it Yves Saint Laurent who once said that a good model can advance fashion by ten years? But what if the model is a T girl with a keen sense of style? And it's 2012 instead of 2022? Is it considered still fashion forward?

So many questions, so little time to respond. Yes, the new year has been with us since a week ago - unless of course you are waiting for the Chinese New Year. Fashion arbiters and trendsetters have hedged their bets and predicted the hottest looks of Twenty-Twelve. How do our fabulous posse of T girls face the fashion challenge of the new year?

Let's take a look at how five of the best models (oh please don't you dare say otherwise), each of whom has her personal style and individual preference, advance fashion by weeks, months or years. If YSL were to judge us if he was still alive, would he consider us in or out? Your guess as they say is as good as mine. After all fashion is subjective and is ever evolving process.

The Icon
Legendary Germaine in haute couture evoking the fashion trends of the past

The Nymph
Youthful, fresh, and ready to go, sexually desirable Cheska seduces in her New Year style

The Chic
Leggy Jing knows how to turn it up in any style - sexy, confident, and chic

The Bombshell
Elusive Myra still surprises - alluring, seductive, and beguiling which are the hallmarks of a bombshell

The Goddess
Dawn thinks she is while others disagree. Being one is a state of mind that can be manifested through personal style, right?

Spotted: New Year's Eve Divas @ the Waldorf

2012-01-02T04:50:00.000-05:00

At the Waldorf Astoria lobby

A trio of fabulous T girls were spotted welcoming 2012 in style at the swank Waldorf Astoria Hotel on Park Avenue in New York as they joined hundreds of other revelers at a posh party countdown into the new year.

As they say out with the old and in with the new - that is, new style, new look, and new attitude. Jing, Cheska, and fashionably late Dawn rang in the new year wearing the latest trends in fashion. They were seen partying with some of the stylish New Yorkers, sipping champagne, and toasting 2012 like it was the end of the world.

A brighter year ahead for the divas

Cheska looks so young and fresh

Jing poses for paparazzi at the steps

Dawn faces the new year in fiery red

More paparazzi shots with Dawn and Cheska

Jing and Cheska are friends forever

Blue, black and red for the two divas

The weather on NYE in NYC was unseasonably warm and our girls sizzled in their dazzling party outfits, baring their legs and slender frame. Sexy was in last year and in 2012, sexy goes even sexier as seen here in their post-party pictures. Here's hoping for a fabulous year ahead for all of us!