Brands for Grabs

Let's Wear It Long

2012-01-26T17:42:00.003+08:00

Shirt:

Skirt: Bayo

Shoes: Shoebox and Me

Bag: Accessorize

Ring: Forever 21

Leather bracelets: SM Accessories

Watch: Timex
Necklace and wedding bands: My own

All photos taken by Ate Tata using an iPhone 4.

Beautiful Hats from Around the World

2012-01-24T09:28:00.001+08:00

Hats are not only a way hide your impending hair transplant; they have been worn for millennia by many cultures around the world. Hats can be both practical (keeps your head warm) and cultural (some hats denote cultural identity or group belonging). Here are some interesting hat styles from around the world.

Barretina

The barretina is a great example of a traditional hat style turned political. The red barretina used to be a traditional Catalan hat, but is now worn as a sign of Catalan identity. It’s also still used in traditional dances and festivals in the Catalan region of Spain. It’s worn with the top flopping down.

Fez

The fez is traditionally linked to Ottoman rule in parts of Europe and North Africa. In 1826, an Ottoman sultan decided that the fez would be become the official military hat, and eventually spreading it to the general population. At first a symbol of Arab modernity, the West turned it in an oriental symbol and still use it to identify Turks and other types of Arabs in movies and television shows: fezzes show up in Austin Powers, Doctor Who and Indiana Jones.

Pakul

The pakul (also known as pakol or khapol) is a traditional Pashtun hat (which is believed to actually have originated in Macedonia) worn throughout Pakistan, Afghanistan and other surrounding countries. The pakul is a round, flat hat that can either have a sewn brim (Chitrali style) or worn like a cap (Gilgiti style). It’s a hat
for colder temperatures because it’s made of wool, and can sometimes be decorated with peacock feathers.

Salakot

This traditional Filippino hat is a wide-brimmed hat often made of reeds or rattan. A salakot is actually part of the founding history of the Philippines. Filipinos wear it as symbol of their national identity. During the Spanish occupation, Filipinos started embellishing their salakots, often going to great lengths to add silver and gold decorations, tortoise shells and even precious stones. Some of them are even kept in museums.

Sombrero

We couldn’t talk about hats from around the world without mentioning the famous Mexican sombrero! This wide, saucer-shaped brim and conical crown hat is one of the most recognized symbol of Mexican identity. In the hot tropical temperature of Mexico, descendants of the Spanish developed their own version of the “sombra”, which means “shade”. Mexicans themselves don’t wear them much outside of traditional celebrations, and they make a lot of money selling them to tourists.

Montera

Speaking of Spanish hats, we could also mention the typical bullfighter hat, called “montera”. It’s a crocheted hat usually covered in fur and velvet. Now linked to bullfighting, it’s actually a simple folk hat worn by many Iberian cultures.

As you can see, hats have important cultural significance in many parts of the world. So the next time you put on a hat to hide the fact that you need hair replacement, think about how this hat may (or may not) define a certain cultural or national identity. Even the common baseball cap has symbolic meaning!

Battling the Blues

2012-01-23T13:31:00.003+08:00

Dress: Bayo, Glorietta

Shoes: Cole Vintage, The Ramp Crossings, Glorietta

Accessories and Watch, including wedding bands: all gifted

There are just times that I don't feel like getting out of bed and going to work. Times that I wish I could sink deeper under the sheets and dream away.

But responsibility never fails to rouse me. So during those lazy days, I would try to dress up a bit to get some inspiration. (LOL)

This is what I came up with that day.

All photos taken by Ate Tata using an iPhone 4.

Quick Ways to Refresh Your Hairstyle

2012-01-18T18:55:00.000+08:00

Are you like me who are not too adventurous when it comes to hairstyle?

Then TotalBeauty has good suggestions for you.

Here are quick ways to refresh your hairstyle.

Catch the ForMe Sale!

2012-01-17T09:36:00.000+08:00

Until January 31. In all branches.

Business Monday Look

2012-01-16T12:38:00.001+08:00

Dress: Bayo

Overcoat: Flea Market

Shoes: Janeo

Belt: Cinderella, Glorietta

Necklace: The Landmark

Mondays we are to wear any business attire. I decided on wearing a dress today and to break the rather dark color of gray and black combination, I wore a necklace with fuchsia feather and gold chain.

All photos taken by Ate Tata using an iPhone 4.

Casual Friday Work Wear

2012-01-13T19:16:00.005+08:00

Top: idx, The Landmark

Jeans: August Jeans, The Landmark

Ballet leopard flats: Schu

Tote: Parfois

Accessories: Flea Markets (except for the wedding ring)

Lesson for this casual Friday work wear: You don't have to wear expensive brands to look good. ;)

And oh, the red car is a Mazda 2. Photos taken by Ate Tata using an iPhone 4.

Thursday Work Wear Comfort

2012-01-12T10:10:00.004+08:00

Top: Pupe, The Landmark

Bottoms: Chic, Flea Market

Shoes: Janeo

Tote: Parfois

Watch: Qmax, gifted

Accessories: Shing (Handcrafted Fashion Accessories)
Vehicle: Isuzu Dmax

This is what I wore to work today; my first attempt at taking photos of my daily work wear. This was taken using an iPhone 4, and thanks to Ate Tata for taking a good photo of me.

I strive for comfort every day at work. It's definitely one way of coping with a stressful situation any time.

Oops, can you see my wizheart-driver-sweet-lover waiting for me to get done? He must be thinking that he's getting late for work. (LOL)

What did you wear for work today?

Kate Middleton's Fashion Evolution

2012-01-10T14:34:00.000+08:00

Image Source

Kate Middleton for me is now the new epitome of class and elegance. When she steps out into the public, everything in her is just so in place and well, perfect for her stature and even age.

Time Online recently run a feature on her, titled Kate Middleton's Amazing Fashion Evolution. Indeed, she is amazing.

Check it out here!

Brands that Will Cost More or Less in 2012

2012-01-09T22:49:00.001+08:00

As I was trying to get into the groove and put together a new post for this blog, I came across this article on CBS Money Watch: Products that will cost more, and less, in 2012. It's rare, but sometimes you can find coupons for in-demand tech gadgets.

I'm sharing this with you now, because I find the article interesting. It gives us a glimpse of how brands are going to evolve in the coming months and how buyers will respond to them.

For example, the article talks about how the refurbished MacBook Air models will fare this year or the iPad versus the Kindle Fire.

Read the article and see what I mean. :)

Help Sendong Victims with Your Used Clothing

2011-12-21T23:32:00.000+08:00

Typhoon Sendong (International name: Washi) hit my hometown, Iligan City over the weekend. While all of us are looking forward to Christmas and getting new clothes, shoes, Sendong took away the clothing, shoes, houses and lives away from us. Oh, how Sendong hit Iligan City!

Tonight, I was folding used clothing to donate to Sendong victims. The overwhelming support from all over the world has helped us and fellow Iliganons cope with the loss and the tragedy of it all.

Well, you too can extend help by donating your used clothing. It's almost the end of 2011, and this is usually the time that we clean out our closets of clothes and shoes that we don't use anymore. You see that piece of shirt or polo peeking at you from that deep corner of your closet? It's time to let it see some light. Get if from the hangers and donate it.

Here's how you can help Sendong victims:

ONE FOR ILIGAN - DONATION DROP OFF POINTS:

Makati City: 3553 Durango St., Palanan, Makati City 1235. Contact Migz @ 09065777812 or 09227130006 OR 6-D Cypress Gardens Condo 112 VA Rufino St. Makati City c/o Meikah Delid

Quezon City: Berkeley Residences, Katipunan Avenue, Quezon City. Contact Jamie Steffani Mijares @ 09157744244

Manila/Taft Avenue: Madison Square Condominium, Taft Avenue, Manila, Right infront of De La Salle University, Right beside Kenny Rogers . Contact Roden Lim @ 09164198655

CASH DEPOSITS
Iliganons sa Manila, Inc.
BDO Checking Acct 5308004019 Asia-Tower Paseo Branch

PAYPAL: ma.merdekah@gmail.com

You can also send donations through Iliganon Bloggers HERE.

Rustan's Launches Their Website

2011-12-21T09:16:00.000+08:00

Rustan's new website is your ultimate beauty source with over 4,000 products

Not sure about the beauty products you want to buy?
Need help achieving certain looks?
Having trouble finding beauty products that best suit you?

The company that defines the innovative science of retailing in the Philippines has launched a brand new website to answer all your
makeup and skincare worries!

Rustan's The Beauty Source (www.rustans-thebeautysource.com)
provides you a comprehensive and easy way to find products for
skincare, makeup, fragrances, hair, bath & body and more from your
favorite elite brands.

Find what you're looking for, start your own beauty regimen, and
achieve your desired look by visiting Rustan's The Beauty Source now atwww.rustans-thebeautysource.com!

Source: Summit Media PR

GT: Where'd My Money Go?

2011-12-15T13:31:00.003+08:00

Taking a shot here with my iPhone 4, my biggest extravagance :D
Top: Gap
Jeans: Mossimo
Sandals: Margay
Accessories: SM Accessories

My biggest extravagance this year is the iPhone 4.

The rest of the year, my money went to:

kids' allowance
kid's food
kid's toys - this part is becoming expensive as they grow older
kid's school bus service
kid's education

These are goods investments though, don't you think? :)

Click here for more Girls Talk!

StyleFeeder's Recommended Party Essentials

2011-12-15T09:05:00.000+08:00

Clockwise:

House of Harlo 1960 clutch

Vince Camuto footwear

Dannijo cato ring

Kenneth Jay Lane CZ stone earrings

Michael Kors Michael T-strap pumps

Kate Spade pearl statement necklace

How to Choose Appliances to Suit Your Lifestyle

2011-12-14T09:47:00.000+08:00

When buying appliances you need to buy the right ones to suit your lifestyle. If you have a large family it is no good buying a small washing machine. You will only fit a small load of clothes in and have to many washes to get all the clothes clean. Same with buying a Westinghouse fridge. If you have children or entertainment often you are better buying a fridge to cope with the larger amount of food that you will need to store. It is always a good idea to look after your appliances and if they stop working or start causing sparks you will need to call your electrician.

Buy the right size

There is no point buying a large dishwasher if there is only two of you living in the house and you eat out a lot. By the time you filled the dishwasher it would be smelly and you would have long run out of clean dishes. A larger dishwasher is just not practical. For a couple or single person a dishwasher with split drawers is a perfect solution. At the other end of the scale, if you have a large family or like to entertain often then you are better off buying a decent size machine so you can fit all your dirty dishes in and get it all clean in one load. This goes for all your appliances, including your fridge, your washing machine, the dryer and even your toaster.

Get the products you will use

Appliances, even small ones, can cost a lot of money, and they usually take up a lot of space in cupboards. There are appliances that are essential, such as a fridge and a washing machine that every household needs, but you don't necessary need to buy a dishwasher or dryer. These appliances do make your life a lot easier but if you can't quite afford them yet or don't want to buy them you can still run your household without any problems. Having a dishwasher will save you a lot of time and also help you save water, as apparently washing dishes by hand uses more water. Dryers can be great during winter when it is harder to get clothes clean but they do use a lot of energy and it is better for the environment to hang your clothes on the line. There is no point buying smaller appliances like hot dog machines and doughnut makers if you are only going to use them once or twice. They take up space in your cupboards and end up being a waste of money. You may however get a lot of use from appliances like these and use things like your espresso machine, the ice cream maker, the bread maker and the popcorn machine all the time.

Make your life easier

Choose appliances that are going to make your life easier. Once you have had a dishwasher you can't do without them and every household needs a fridge and washing machine. Other appliances that can make your life easier might be an electric fry pan, a slow cooker, a bread maker and a chest freezer.

Keep your budget in mind

You will also need to keep your budget in mind when you go shopping for appliances. The are many brands and models of most appliances so you should not have any trouble finding the right appliance to suit your budget.

RT: WAGW Red Scarf for Christmas

2011-12-13T11:09:00.002+08:00

Burgundy fringed scarf: WAGW

Navy and white striped shirtdress: Beltza

Leopard print ballet flat with rosette: Celine

Source

It's Christmas time, and this is the look that I want to achieve for Christmas.

Click here for more Ruby Tuesday.

Celine Denim Wedges

2011-12-12T09:27:00.002+08:00

I got these pair of CLN canvas-denim open-toe wedges from Celine, SM Bicutan about a year ago. I like them because they are perfect for casual denim days, and the studs make them a bit edgy. They're comfy, too! :)

Click here for Celine store locations.

GT: Something Old

2011-12-08T13:26:00.000+08:00

Dress: Tomato, Glorietta Center Makati

I love antique stuff. Here I was seated on an antique wooden seat made of narra. It's definitely something old, yet still elegant. This reminds me of my grandparents' bed.

This photo was taken at Balay Indang in Cavite. The place is quaint and beautiful, you should check it out.

One day, when I can afford it, I'd be an antique collector. (lol)

Click here for more GT.

Hot Holiday Gift Ideas

2011-12-08T13:05:00.000+08:00

Clockwise:

Juicy Couture Stardust Glitter iPad case - view it here

Arhaus twin leaves ring - view it here

Guerlain 'Ecrin 6 Couleurs' Eyeshadow Palette - view it here

Steven - Madee-R Footwear - view it here

Rebecca Minkoff SWEETIE Bow Clutch in Cameo - view it here

Inhabit Chunky-knit wool-blend sweater - view it here

Source: StyleFeeder.com

50% Off on Fit in the Clouds Ballet Flats

2011-12-07T22:51:00.000+08:00

Fit in the Clouds are stylish, practical and portable ballet flats. And the good news is that you can get a pair for 50% off the rack.

Dance your way through all those holiday parties with portable, foldable ballet flats from Fit in Clouds. They make perfect stocking stuffers for the woman in your life who appreciates style AND comfort. The next best thing to slippers, Fit in Clouds flats are chic enough to complement even the most formal gown. Whether you’re dancing the night away, dining with friends, or hailing a taxi after the party, they’ll be your comfy companion. Each pair comes with a matching drawstring pouch for elegant portability and easy gifting.

You have 5 days to avail yourself of the discount. Check them out now!

RT: The Mommy Look!

2011-12-03T16:51:00.003+08:00

Dress: Meg

Sandals: Crocs

Bag: Accessorize

Necklace and leather bracelet: Accessorize

Earrings: freshwater pearls, Greenhills Shopping Center

Bangle: a gift

Watch: Timex

Today was my son's First Holy Communication. This is what I wore. :D I just love wearing this all-white dress of mine. It's an old one, but I consider it timeless.

I've decided to link this entry to the Ruby Tuesday as well. Spot the ruby in these pictures! :D

Click here for more Ruby Tuesday.

Let the Christmas Shopping Begin

2011-12-03T12:08:00.003+08:00

I think for some of us, Christmas shopping begins every Black Friday and Cyber Monday, that 2 shopping frenzy days after the US Thanksgiving.

If you heard about those horrifying stories of shoppers spraying and stumbling over other shoppers during last Black Friday, you wouldn't wish to be in the middle of it. Although I know for the super discounted prices of gadgets, some people would grab and brave anything.

But for the less adventurous me, I'd rather check out online clothing stores (I love shopping for clothes!). Since the era of online shopping began, there are plenty of online stores that I can choose from.

One of my favorites is the Byron Bay Threads. It's a one-stop online shop carrying almost everything I need. Byron Bay has children's clothing from sleepwear to school wear. For women's clothing, I can choose from coats and knitwears to shorts, to dresses and skirts, to tops and pants. The choices are really perfect for a working mom like me.

I know many are hesitant to get online clothing, because often they feel that they need to fit them. But for Byron Bay they provide a sizing chart, with international sizing conversion, to guide us choose which size would fit us best.

More importantly, the clothing is reasonably priced.

I'm sharing with you a video, which highlights the products of Byron Bay Threads:

GT: My NEW Mango Sunnies

2011-12-01T08:30:00.002+08:00

The theme of this week's Girls Talk is Something New.

Let me start with my new Mango sunnies. My niece gave it to me. ;))

Now, I'm trying to recall all the something new and I've never... that I've had the past months.

I've never had hair highlights or color my hair til this year.
I've never watched a live and world-class football game. I watched all of the Azkals game this year, except the one on Saturday because tickets are way too expensive! :D
I've never watched a Pacquiao fight live coverage on TV because I would get anxious. I would watch only the replays. But I did watch his match with Marquez last November 12th, and well to my disappointment, it was not Pacquaio's best fight.

For more Girls Talk, visit Beauty Queen Gene.

TOMS Give Fair: Create Your Own TOMS

2011-11-30T10:19:00.003+08:00

Let's all get together for the TOMS GIVE FAIR on December 4, Sunday at 10am-4pm at the Trinoma Park, 4th Level,Trinoma Mall. Do some Holiday shopping at the first-ever TOMS Pop-Store in the country and, treat yourself to all the wonderful activities TOMS has lined up for you to enjoy a fun-filled family friendly day. It's their way of saying thank you and getting everyone into the Holiday Giving Spirit. Give Joy, Give TOMS.

For participation, please RSVP:

ONLINE

or thru GeiserMaclang c/o:

Alma Buenviaje

Mobile: 09188344624,

E-mail at events@geisermaclang.com

You may also want to Like their Facebook page.

My Accessorize Bag

2011-11-30T09:56:00.002+08:00

With Mr. Tatoy of Tatoy's at Villa Beach, Iloilo City

Bag: Accessorize

Meeting the unassuming Mr. Tatoy during the Pacquaio-Marquez match was better than the fight.

Necklace: Forever 21

Leather Bracelet: The Ramp Crossings

Early this month, my family went home to Iloilo to celebrate the 98th birthday of my mother-in-law. Prior to the trip, I was looking for that perfect body bag, which is unique, not too big nor small, just enough to carry my wallet and other bag organizers.

I found the bag I was looking for at Accessorize, Glorietta 3. Just look at the photos above, and see what I mean. ;)

Incidentally, I know Accessorize is selling some of their selected bags up to 50% this season. Check out their stores now!

Festival Supermall
Alabang Town Centre
SM Southmall
SM Mall of Asia
Greenbelt 5
Glorietta 3
Edsa Shangri-La
Robinson's Place Ermita
Robinson's Galleria
Trinoma
Marquee Mall Pamapanga
SM Pampanga
SM Davao
SM Cebu
Ayala Cebu
Robinson's Dumaguete
SM Cagayan de Oro
Abreeza Mall