THE QUEEN BEE SPEAKS

CLAIM YOUR FIFTIES

2011-10-16T19:14:00.002-07:00

Fashion does not choose any age.

Designer Michael Kors says “If you had great legs at twenty, you’ll have them at fifty.” He is so right. And aren’t you lucky, as this applies for just about any of your great features! Yay, you!

Your fifties are all about comfort and elegance. Contrary to many busy, sweatpanted moms and grandmoms, these two ideas can go hand in hand.

Fabrics like cashmere (okay you’ve earned it), merino wool (an inexpensive cousin to chashmere), and silks should be the holy trinity when looking for the cooler months. For instance,PL sweatpants can be so “plush”, so that they are comfy and flattering. Look for those made in velour at the very least, so when worn with sparky flats, you become a stylish host inside who can actually enjoy the party, or when out and about, your outfit actually deducts from your age.

This is the time to heel heights down, while keeping them sassy. Kitten and Sabrina heels should be the key words when asking for assistance in your favorite shoe store. But keep one killer hig-heeled pair for “anniversary nights”.

Know that your outfits should not look like they did twenty years ago, and neither should your face or hair. Celebrating who you are today is when the real arresting beauty shines through. This means going a touch shorter on the hair, giving it a sporty edge and increased manageability. Ease up on the make-up. The flaws that come from maturity tend to be highlighted when masked with heavy products that claim to cover and conceal. Let your sensuality reveal itself in your posture and ladylike carriage, not necessarily a skin-bearing top or skirt. Allow clothes to closely skim the body’s shape for the same effect.

Claim your fifties and feature style that best suits you, or pass along an age-empowering tip to a woman who really needs it – older or younger. Cheers!*

THE TOP FIVE FIFTY-SOMETHING STYLE ESSENTIALS

*A soft travel sweatsuit in a rich fabric
*Sassy flat (or low–heeled) shoes with sexy details
*Youthful but age-appropriate jeans (slightly lower at the waist)
*More skincare, less make-up
*A trench coat with color, mystery and glamour.

FRESH START TO BEAUTY

2011-10-16T19:14:00.000-07:00

“I will honor my skin and only apply what is good for it.”

Your skin is holding on to the last touches of your glow, the cooler “Christmas-y” weather inspires you to layer and accessorize – unlike those dauntingly hot days of summer when all you wanted to wear were three easy pieces. This time of the year is also when “a bit more make-up” can really unify a great sassy ensemble.

Most make-up has a shelf life – like other perishables. You may not know it from the packaging or the product itself – changing color and odor as old food would – but the dangers of germ life lurking beneath the surface can spread to your eyes, pores and mouth, sometimes causing infection.

Pull out every make-up you own. Try your best to recall when you purchased each item and eliminate the old according to the “freshness dates” below. If you cannot recall, look at how worn the packaging is for a bit of a hint. If that trick does not help your case, you may as well be on the safe side and simply toss it in the garbage bin. Sometimes, a lost five hundred peso eye pencil is better than 50,000 peso eye infection. Time to give your basic make up areas a face lift using this “Guideline for Disposal”:

PRODUCT LIFESPAN

Powder 8 months for a compact; 8 to 12 months for loose powder
Eyeliner 3 to 6 months for liquid; 6 to 12 months for pencil
Eye shadow 3 to 6 months for liquid; 6 to 12 months for powder and cream
Mascara 3 months
Concealer 4 to 6 months for water-based; 6 to 8 months for wax-based
Lipstick one year
Foundation 6 to 12 months

Make a fresh start to beauty by emptying your make-up drawer, tossing the expired products, and organizing what is still worthy of meeting your face. Stay pretty and safe, ladies!*

GO FOR HIGH GLAMOUR

2011-10-16T19:13:00.003-07:00

The smallest accessory can be the simplest style trick to turn your entire outfit around, making it appear more glamorous, fabulous and yes, an attempt to be more sophisticated.

Wear a quiet strand of pearls and make a little sheath dress speak louder than ever. Toss on a sparkly, vintage brooch with skinny jeans and a crisp ironed blazer and add a grown-up edge to a casual pairing. And greater than any of these, put on a pair of big, dark sunglasses (yes, I mean “artista shades”, darling) for that mysterious effect you have been craving for. Most celebrities wear them for a bit of privacy and anonymity (as they can get one bit). But they probably draw more attention to them than less. What a pair of hip shades can do is make you look stylish and become that true blue fashion icon.

Start sporting yours at this very moment with anything you plan on wearing today, the same way former first lady and style legend Jacqueline Onassis did. It was never about reserving them for glitzy outfits and fabulous events. She was known for simply walking into her post-first lady life as a book editor wearing a simple cashmere sweater, trousers, and her signature big dark sunglasses, which have come to be known as “Jackie O’s.” Those dark frames added a shot of unexpected elegance to her basic work clothes so she looked like a movie star.

If you are lucky enough to see a celebrity walking confidently past you in her well-appointed outfit boasting beautifully styled hair, a perfect handbag, and her own big, dark sunglasses, just drop yours slightly and give her a wink. She’ll be shocked to realize that you were not who she thought you were either.

So grab on to those glam shades and take just about any outfit to a high glamour!*

CRISPY WHITE

2011-10-16T19:13:00.001-07:00

Ah…the white shirt! Clean, fresh, dainty, and pure. It is a simple measure that makes a powerful style statement. A bright, solid white shirt, regardless of the material, is like a blank canvas – it offers limitless possibilities.

When you put on a white shirt, whether it’s luxurious silk blouse, a perfectly pressed combed cotton button-down, or the simplest short-sleeved T-shirt, you are creating a well-lit stage for your face and hair. White attracts light and gently reflects brightness onto whatever is nearby. It also transmits a gentle glow that makes you standout.\

There are no bounds when selecting the perfect bottom to complement the perfect white top. Keep a simple classic a la Katherine Hepburn, by matching it with finely tailored pants in any color. Or strike a more feminine note by wearing it with a knee-length back pencil skirt or camel-colored A-line skirt. Use a white shirt to top off a sexy pair of dark jeans and don’t forget to add a fun belt for a wink personality.

For an evening look with a chic, girly and “kikay” twist, take red carpet wonder Sharon Stone’s cue: pair a man-tailored white dress shirt, unbuttoned to your “sexy place” (but not too unbuttoned for the world to see), with a luxurious floor-length skirt that falls with dramatic and breezy flair. Now you are talking maximum impact with minimum effort! Yay!

Keep your white shirts impeccable by carefully following the cleaning instructions on the label. Yes, follow them strictly unless you want a “dirty white” version after the first use. And do not rely on just one or two to get you through. Invest in several quality versions in different styles so you can pluck one from your closet as effortlessly as a Kleenex at any moment to help you shine a little brighter!

Hence ladies, always make sure to build an outfit around a crisp white shirt for a clean and stately look all day long! Toodles!*

MEAN JEAN

2011-10-16T19:11:00.001-07:00

A perfectly fitted pair of jeans is to a modern woman’s casual wardrobe what a little black dress is to her cocktail attire – the style epicenter. Sexy, fitted jeans in a super-dark indigo rinse speak to women looking to turn up the heat. Some gals prefer a slouchy, square boyfriend-cut jean that looks as if she snatched them from the dryer before her man did – also very hot.

CHOOSE THE BEST

Now is the ideal time to find a pair of jeans that look made for you – traffic-stopping, head-turning, entrance-stealing denim that lifts you where you need it and minimizes areas where you need forgiveness!

Use today to assess your favorite jeans and make sure they are still your fail-safe casual basic that makes you shine whether just throwing them on with a tank or dressing them up with a lace blouse. If you don’t have this pair, it is time to go shopping so you are casually prepared for the cooler “ber” months ahead. As you probably know, the scavenger hunt called “jean shopping” can take all day if you do it right. But before you hit the sores, arduously looking though the hundreds of styles that always crop up this time of year, remember these ten rules so you can find your most fabulous fit without feeling frustrated:

* Stretch is best for curvy girls.
* Bring an honest girlfriend to tell you how you really look.
* Pronounced bleaching can create a spotlight where you need it (or don’t).
* Want more J.Lo, look for smaller back packets.
* Want less J.Lo, avoid puffy cargo pockets, especially on the rear.
* Petitite princesses should go for maximum length, and rarely capri styles.
* Make a day of jean shopping, take your time, and try on at least ten pairs.
* If you find a pair you love, grab it in a few different colors.
* You can always bring them back – buy them and try on again at home.
* Disregard the size; get the pair that flatters best.

AS IF YOU JUST STEPPED OUT OF THE RUNWAY

Individual fashion trends live and dire pretty quickly, but then resurface as if they are new. Low-slung pants that bare your private zones might be de rigueur today but so passé tomorrow. The cycle of fashion takes no prisoners, unless you are the type to save everything you’ve ever purchased.

One soon-to-be-classic fashion trend you should hold on to is the pairing of your head-turning blue jeans with an unexpected nighttime top or tailored jacket.

Most stylish women know that their jeans are the casual centerpiece of their wardrobes. When you find a pair that fits, it seems as if the heavens are opening right there in the dressing room and the choir is singing the Hallelujah chorus! Lifting your assets exactly where they could be, and grazing the floor precisely – calling for no alterations. This is the harmony that should inspire you to buy that very jean in every wash and color on the display.

This is also the jean that will welcome not only your sweet T-shirts and weekend sweatshirts but also your tailored tweed blazers in the fall, and your nipped-waist cotton jackets in the spring. The jeans that contrast so beautifully with the tops in your closet – you know the ones. Ladylike printed silk blouses, evening tanks adorned with shimmery little bugle beads, or that sleeveless red cashmere turtleneck that hugs your every curve. These are just the tops to create the sexy juxtaposition to pull this look off. *

Define your waist

2011-10-16T19:10:00.001-07:00

Bow-tied ribbons and super thick or ultrathin belts are great ways to mind your middle. The waistline is an overlooked area of a woman’s body, which can really add interest to an otherwise boring outfit on any given day – why not right now? Look down on your waistline – at a very different place for each and every woman – and hold it. Are you high waisted, have a long torso, or maybe even thick waisted? Guess what, the waist is still there. It is probably just time to give it some attention.

Do what so many high-fashion designers do from season to season: play with your waist area to create drama and add shape to a shapeless top, skirt, or dress. Using anything from hand-crafted leather belts to a yard of grosgrain ribbon from Iloilo’s local fabric and notions shops can has equally amazing results.

Here are some ways to pull it off, or in, for that matter:

HIGH WAIST GALS

The goal is to add more vertical balance to your frame when dressing up. Reach for thick belts (probably four inches up) that sling lower and close to your hips. The cinching action of a wide belt will add more length to your torso and even out your shape. Try one atop a tank and jeans, or even over a blousy peasant top.

LONG-TORSO GIRLS

You have it made girl, according to many women. Your best belts are slimmer and those that have excess dingle: handcrafter leather fringe, metal chain links and loops, or anything ornate that starts slim and keeps the eye going down. You can even create your own bow-tied ribbon belt with a strip of grosgrain ribbon.

THICK-WAIST CHICKS

Never despair, your (our) waist is there. It may need a bit of “unearthing” or illusionist tactics, but believe me your (our) mantra should be: It is there! Many women with thick waists have to go higher than normal when adding attention to an area that has little shape. Just beneath your bustline is as high as you should go. Empire-waist and tops are key and essential. Funky Bohemian silhouettes that gather and tie up above the navel, and then blouse out can do the trick as well.

Go ahead Ilongga Fashionista, don’t waste any more time making use of that waist! Toodles!*

Read more about Dress by iloilonewstoday.com

Investing in a perfect black dress

2011-10-16T19:09:00.000-07:00

There is no way around it. The perfect dress is by far the smartest style investment a woman can splurge on. My advice: Spend as much as you can afford, even close to P50, 000 to ensure that this dress might be the only one you ever need to invest in. And if this means 500 pesos for you, so be it. Just stretch financially a bit with this purchase, for if selected properly, the perfect black dress will stretch your wardrobe and personal style to the next level of chic.

You’ve seen it done knee-length for decades, from Audrey Hepburn’s definitive 1961 sleeveless, knee-length legend in Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Elizabeth Taylor’s more vampy version in Butterfield 8 just one year earlier, to real women today taking their cues for longer evening shapes from such style notables as Angelina Jolie, Jennifer Lopez, Julia Roberts and Susan Sarandon, who chose perfect black dresses for many a red-carpet affair, including the pinnacle, the Oscars.

When deciding on which silhouette to choose, consider maximum versatility. Opt for a dress that can take you from semi-formal all the way down to business-laced evening affairs. For this, choose a tailored style that fits your body with pronounced shape and fit, in a fabric that looks more elegant than casual.

Since you are splurging, throw caution to the wind and check out cashmere first, and work your way down to wool gabardine or crepe, or super-100s wool.

Think about a measured amount of sex appeal that you can either rev up or cool down when deciding on the cut. The sleeveless boatneck is a safe start for first try-ons, then plunging deeper in the front or back if you want to show more skin. The perfect sleeveless sheath for you may even be in lightweight viscose rayon for a chic, alluring, and elegant drape. Either way, go for a timeless straight hem, avoiding the froufrou.

If evening events are more of what you need your noir stunner for, look to slim, body conscious, flowing bias-cut silk charmeuse with a deep-V neckline and mirroring V-shaped back.

The experience of finding the perfect dress should be just that – a truly memorable experience, thus my somewhat limited guidelines. Make a day of it, as if you were searching for the single gal’s equivalent of a wedding dress, and try on loads of them.

You will know it when you see it, if it makes your eyes light up in a way they never have when gazing into a three-way mirror.

And if P50,000 is, in fact, your price ceiling (which is too much), buy the dress that is P1,000-5,000 and save a cool C-note for masterful tailoring so that your off-the-rack stunner will look more like it is custom made. Voila, the perfect black dress!*

Fashionable and healthy selfishness

2011-10-16T19:06:00.000-07:00

We are all guilty of equating fashion to clothes, shoes and accessories. However, being fashionable also means something about our wellness, health, and lifestyle. Even with all the labels up your sleeve – from Armani, Prada, Gucci and LV – if you look like 80 when you are simply in your dynamic 20s and 30s, then how could you claim being fashionable? Style is all about the external and internal well-being of every self proclaimed fashionista. Here are two of no nonsense tips you can start with, without costing you an arm or a month’s worth of salary!

CATCH UP ON THE Zzzzzz’s Sleep.

Yes, this is an unlikely style tip. But at the core of every head-turning outfit is a woman’s posture and carriage, much of which can be enhanced by a good night’s sleep.

Your bed is where your body refreshes itself from life, and fashion is wear and tear. You may wear high heels for hours on end, which can add strain on the lower back, or wear stretch body shapers that suppress the flesh all day, creating tension and pressure, especially on the midsection. And working on your feet, specifically on floors without padding, can take a serious toll on your posture. This is why a full, restful night’s sleep is something to plan for and maximize.

Any given day is the perfect day to turn your mattress. Take a few minutes (with the help of an extra set of hands if necessary). Your normal sleeping position can create a body impression in your mattress that overtime can keep you from your best sleep. Most manufacturers say that every six months is fine, but you can also do it quarterly if you really want to be on top of things.

The mattress industry is heading toward nonflip mattresses, but most still need to be reversed occasionally. If you purchased your mattress and box spring before the turn of the new millennium, flip and rotate the mattress and rotate the box spring.

LUXURIATE IN A “POWER BATH”

Who has that kind of time? You do! Bathing in relaxed luxury, versus a pounding shower, is the first step to any stylish night on the town, or power day for that matter.

A recent study conducted at Pennsylvania State University found that most people take a shower for an average of nearly eighteen minutes. Imagine how much longer that feels in a warm bath filled with your favorite scented bath gel, natural sponge, and soothing music? Probabaly more like an hour!

Think about it. You have the bathtub. You keep passing by those bath salts and special soaps that have been wrapped in plastic since this time last year. Why not give them a quick whirl, using just about the exact same time you would to shower. This is how you can pull it off with or without children, a significant other, or a grand Jacuzzi bathtub.

The time it takes to close the drain, turn on the faucet, and add your product of choice is about thirty seconds more than turning on the shower. Do this step before handling another piece of typical preparation for the day, like putting on your coffee. Once you return, your liquid queendom awaits and your average eighteen minutes looks better than ever.

Shut off the phone and step in, knowing that the time spent bathing will help you to mentally unearth the outfit that got you all those compliments in the past. You can prioritize the three most important tasks you’d like to accomplish during the day ahead – and not a single task more. And unlike the dodging water spray of a shower, the gentle waters of your quiet bath caress your entire body all at once, almost doing some of the active legwork of washing for you – thus a little more energy reserved for your entire day.

Taking a shower will never be the same once you know the bath’s calming effect is just as easy to come by.

Another bonus: You don’t have to wear a shower cap.

LEARN A NEW FASHION TERM : "froufrou"

2011-08-18T03:36:00.000-07:00

I have always shared new terms in my past articles. And this week is a time to enhance our fashion vocabulary with these French terms that will become surefire instant one-liners during a shopping spree or in a simple fabulous conversation over a cup of coffee.

*FROUFROU ( froofroo): Fluffy trimmings such as ruffles, ribbons, and laces. Derived from French, “rustle” or “swish.” From the names of the play Froufrou written by Henri Meilhac and Ludovic Halevy in 1869.

Certain fashion descriptions can be pure onomatopoeias. Froufrou is hands down one of my favorites.

Can’t you just see hands flying around in circles as one describes a garment or the interior of one’s home as “froufrou”? You instantly see fussy fabrics, romantic and decorative details, and disproportionate embellishments that have no beginning and no seeming end.

There are times when froufrou is exactly what the style doctors ordered, such as gala events that call for a masquerade theme, like Mardi Gras celebrations, and of course, the garden party that requests a look that honors “southern elegance. ” And why not?

Froufrou is all about excess and excitement, fantasy and fashion escapism! Taking a step out of what is functional and minimal, and enjoying the romantic details of a ruffled gown that dusts the floor, a blouse that has lace, ribbons, beading, and bows – and that is only on the collar! The point is going all the way over the top, or leaving it alone.

Women who attempt the in-between are the ones who get into trouble when a stylish affair calls for froufrou or one of the aforementioned themes. Load it on ad nausea like a queen who wants to display her treasures. And when in doubt, add one more brooch to just be safe.

LEARN A NEW FASHION TERM: "haute couture"

2011-08-16T05:29:00.000-07:00

*HAUTE COUTURE (oht koo-toor) : A French term that applies to custom-made clothes by top designers. Der. French, “highest quality dressmaking.” Is used throughout the fashion industry to represent original styles, the ultimate in fine sewing and tailoring, made of expensive fabrics . The designs are shown in collection twice a year – spring/summer and fall/winter collections.

Simply put, haute couture is the legendary art of one-of-a-kind, made-to-order fashion (traditionally for the wealthiest of clientele) of the finest fabrics and masterful craftsmanship available – from numerous designer sketches, hours of fabric and trim research, multiple painstaking client fittings, expert sewing, hand-finishing, and masterful embellishment work (e.g., beading done one bead at a time by hand).

Most wealthy clients of the haute couture set are worldly women who will pay the tens of thousands of dollars for each garment for the security of not seeing any dress similar to theirs coming and going into a gala or society event. The designers they choose are usually selected members of a Parisian association called the Chambre Syndicate de la Couture Parisienne, which was founded in 1868 and regulates its members in regard to piracy of styles and various promotional activities.

Other European cities, particularly London, Rome, Florence, Zurich, and Madrid, have since developed their own couture industries, all of which have emulated the Paris haute couture system.

Lesson over. But one more thing: sorry ladies, but fun American labels such as Juicy Couture don’t hold beads here. Think more along the lines of Christian Dior Couture for the real deal when you are ready to wait about a month, and use what amounts to a house down-payment for that special night and a must-have dress.

FASHION TRICKS FOR EVERY FASHIONISTA

2011-08-08T21:53:00.000-07:00

Women love to dress up. Women are fashion conscious in one way or another. We are in general, fashion tip hungry and love every single way we can maximize our passion for passion. However, in our quest to prettify our fashion statements, we forget that the best of tricks are the simplest of them all, and more often than not, not given any attention. Here are a few tricks you can roll up your sleeve and see the difference, dahling!

INSTANT LONG LEGS

Every well-dressed woman needs a pair of nude, high-heeled dress shoes. Nude means that the color of the shoe should be strikingly close match to your particular skin tone. I proudly prescribe this look for women who want to add the illusion of length to their legs by wearing a shoe that doesn’t match an outfit to perfection or compete with an understated outfit.

Think about it: Sometimes a grass green dress and matching grass green shoes can leave you looking stumpy. And what are your options? Black shoes are too heavy. Metallics, yes, if they are in this season. Need I continue?

The look of a soft, natural nude shoe is, all at once, rich, organic, and elegant. Choose a traditional pump, a sexy sling-back, a strappy high-heeled sandal, or a Sabrina heel – the choice is yours. This nude or neutral approach is a surefire shoe that is great for travel because of its versatility. It allows you to wear and repeat, without the chance of looking like you are wearing those shoes again. You can pack a lighter bag with one great pair of shoes that will go just about anything, because they go with you. They almost disappear from your feet.

ADD A LADY-LIKE TWIST

It should really be called the A+ skirt! If I had to give one of the many skirt silhouettes a grade for being super versatile, classic, and figure-flattering – all in one – it would be the A-line skirt.

The early 1960s gave birth to the A-line skirt and smart women never let it go. The A-line skims the hips slightly, and flares out just in time to make them appear a bit smaller to the eye. Women lacking hips love its power to give shape where there is little to none.

Invest in a timeless, A-line in a solid color and year-round fabric. Working women should start with a dark color, where as those choosing versions just for play can opt for a light first-investment piece. Match it with fitted sweaters, untucked tailored blouses, and pretty tanks that are tastefully snug to bring out its best. With a skirt this together, the outfit combinations are almost limitless, from business with pumps, to weekends in playtime flats.

LIFTING IT UP A SMIDGE

2011-07-22T11:09:00.000-07:00

“Beauty is power; a smile is its sword” – Charles Reade, novelist

I’d like to offer a very personal piece of style advice that has helped me look better as a layman on the street facing hundreds of people every single day. It has likewise helped me face the corporate world with a “stand out” appeal just so it can distinguish me from other races. For women (and men), there is a small nuance of style that oftentimes goes forgotten because, unlike on-camera professionals, most average folk would never even think to focus on it. Let’s call it “facial posture”. That is, how you hold your face when unaware of any onlookers -like right at this very moment.

RELAX, RELAX, RELAX

Try relaxing your face as if you never read what is above, and take a look at yourself in a complete, natural, resting position. What do you see?

For me, my natural resting position is a frown of sorts. My eyes can pierce when I stare, my right eyebrow occasionally rises up a notch, the upper lip heads south and my cheeks stay in place. I don’t feel a bit angry, but if you were to pass me running errands, or going about my day, you would thing that I am about to extinguish somebody…err an insect.

“MAFIA-ISH”

From getting all these comments that I look so “mafia-ish” when busy, or just when I am so into something really important, I began to see my face in a resting position while awaiting a remark from my company’s CEO or in a meeting with colleagues , or simply being in a workshop on “How to Deal with Difficult Clients”. I looked like a mildly upset young woman who would perk up when speaking, only to return to the mad side.

I so learned how to hold my face and all the muscles in it pleasantly when not speaking, and sometimes even when speaking, to create a more inviting mug for my audience during my presentations, to really want to listen to. I found out that it made what I wore look better, and what I said translate a bit easier as those listening to me reacted to the sunnier look in my eyes.

TRY IT!

Take this idea and process it carefully. I am not sanctioning walking the streets with a huge lottery grin on your face all day long. Just a subtly more pleasant expression. To start, try thinking happier thoughts during your downtime. This exercise is about not allowing what you can control to subtract from all the hard work you are attempting to put into your personal style each and every day, without you even realizing it.

Just remember, put your facial posture in check by lifting it up a smidge. Watch it give a lift to your personal style in a way you could never imagine!

EVERYTHING YOU WEAR CANNOT SHINE

2011-07-19T20:48:00.000-07:00

Calling all gypsies! You know exactly who you are. You’ve got an arsenal of clothes and accessories that are your “favorites”. Sentimental brooches, retro-patterned scarves, dangling earrings-of-the-moment, ornate belts that wrap and twist, clever hats, funky hair bands, exotic necklaces, your eclectic watch, charm-filled bracelets, silky wraps, handbags large enough to fit a small country, and your never-leave-home without-them sunglasses are almost like your trusted friends in the morning. You pick from them lovingly to be at your side for special occasions. It is a pleasure to see them. They make you feel secure.

Following the philosophy created by designer Coco Chanel. I challenge you to leave one of those things behind before you walk out of the door today – just one. It may be difficult. Most women begin to feel an emotional attachment to what I deem “personality accessories” that they collect over the years, not realizing how many of them they are actually featuring at once, out of sheer habit and emotional attachment.

EXTRA PERSONALITY

Personality accessories are the fashion trimmings, which, overtime , come to define who you are or who you aspire to be. And each and every woman has her own personal reasons; a special cameo passed down from an aunt, those sweet little “huggy” earrings that fit your ear exactly the way they did on the first date with your husband, or a ten-year old neckerchief that is just so very soft – they’ve become a portable security blanket of sorts.

As special as these items may be, they have a tendency to gather toether, creating a cacophony of style statements that aren’t very easy on the eye – for they are all speaking at once – and not one gets heard clearly.

TODAY, PLEASE!

Use today as a testing ground to allow your favorite pantsuit to shine on its own by adding just a beautiful pair of tasteful heels and a sophisticated watch. Or let that party dress that takes ten pounds off you steal the attention when you walk in, avoiding the chance of your brooch, wrap, pinky ring, and hair clip elbowing in for first place. Save your boldest personality accessories for occasions when they can spruce up an easy T-shirt-and-jean combo, or add a smidgen of verve to a somber little black dress. This will give them the attention you feel they deserve.

Just always bear in mind, everything you wear cannot shine! Toodles!

A BIT OF QUICK AT-HOME TAILORING

2011-06-24T22:24:00.000-07:00

Over the years, countless women say this one phrase when looking at a garment that they seem to like, but are on the fence about: “Wow that would be perfect, if only ______.” It could be a fabric rosette attached to the lapel of the jacket, the big orange buttons affixed to a dark duster, or something as simple as the ‘too long’ or ‘too short’ length of capri pants.

This is no reason not to buy a new garment that you simply adore. Or worse yet, banish a perfectly good quality piece of clothing to the back of your closet, never to be seen again.

Although professional tailors are the best friends of the most stylish women on the planet, most busy women striving for improved style rarely have the time to visit them. Tailors are usually reserved for larger, more complex sewing tasks that require a seasoned craftsperson. This is when quick-at-home tailoring comes handy.

PLAYING EXPERT

Use this day to see what garments in your closet are out of rotation simply because of the details. Small particulars can be changed with a little needle and thread, a seam ripper, or some stitch witchery or fusion tape, that is applied with an iron.

Removing large or dated buttons from jackets and pants and replacing them with chic updates can be done while watching your favorite thirty-minute soap opera or game show and can be quite cathartic. Old long pats can be instantly made into fresher, younger capri pants by taking up the length and hot pressing in a new one, in about the same time it takes to iron them for work. And you would be shocked to see what a cheap seam ripper can remove – from the horrific 1980s shoulder epaulets to ruffles attached to a summer dress. Enter a cleaner, simpler garment that is now timeless.

OUT WITH THE OLD , IN WITH THE REVIVED

Give the woman in your mirror some support. You can’t possibly expect her to make sure you’re perfect in your presentation all by herself. She can’t see you the way others see you because, among other reasons, she’s too close.

After your revisions of the looks of the haunted past, choose a few friends who have a taste that has always impressed you. Ask them to form an honesty alliance. Think Destiny’s Child or Pussycat Dolls! I bet they all used this tip to keep one another looking ready for the world stage. Let them know of how you want to revive the old and give it a modern twist!

Whip out your sewing kit, no matter how small. Attack just one garment for starters, and see what comes out of it. Don’t be scared. The worst that could happen is that it returns to the glomy rear of your wardrobe. Just call yourself “Miss Tailor”, but without the baggage of seven husbands!

THE RIGHT WHITE

2011-06-16T02:18:00.000-07:00

White is the absence of all colors. For me it is clean, dainty, pure, and exquisite. For a person on the “heavier” side, white is usually avoided as it allegedly expands more than what is already “enlarged”. White also means elegance, in that an ample amount of care is needed against stains, spots, or anything that will disturb its beauty. Its being high-maintenance has actually increased its face value. However, there are two things every fashioinista must have in white and here they are:

BRIGHTEN THOSE PEARLY WHITES

Gritting teeth for anger, showing all of your teeth for extreme joy, and closing top to bottom for a classic “eek!” when alarmed. Do your teeth speak for you? Are they saying what you want?

A bright fresh smile can make a simple shirt and casual pants appear a bit fresher. Some dentists also believe that shifting your tooth color closer to white can create an illusion to the eye of onlookers, where your skin actually looks a bit warmer, thus a free little tan without ever packing a bag. And young people usually have teeth that are naturally whiter, for they haven’t experienced the ills of adult life, from coffee to cocktails with cranberry juice and every evil in between. So you may look a bit younger by whitening your smile, kiddo!

Do yourself a mini-makeover favor, without ever buying a stitch of clothing, visiting a salon, or stepping foot in a gym. Research a professional tooth whitening service and get an estimate and consultation. Run it past your dentist to make sure it is safe for your teeth, and ask him or her for other, less expensive, over-the-counter options they might recommend. See what fits your budget, and go for it.

Trust that you will instantly feel lighter and refreshed, and getting dresses may not be such a hassle, in a gorgeous, bright smile can really make any little thing you toss on look a bit newer.

Be careful not to overdo it, as many of our Hollywood sisters do, not realizing that teeth have a smidge of color. Remember, only Chiclets gum should be blindingly bleached white and perfectly rectangular. Not a good look on a real woman. A naturally white look is best, as if you have been brushing and flossing after every meal since you first learned how. Hey, who’s to say you haven’t? Don’t ask, don’t tell!

THE PHENOMENAL WHITE JEANS

If I had the power of a billionaire, I would ship a pair of white jeans to every woman alive. She could be a svelte young lady with 24-inch waist line or a curvy woman (ahem) proudly wearing XL and beyond – everybody gets a pair of jeans!

If fitted properly – which mean enough room in the seat for bending and walking without any panty lines, and ample leg room so no one mistakes them for stirrups – a classic, five-pocket, bleach white jean is the common style denominator of fresh outfits for all seasons, occasions , and reasons! From super casual to dress casual, they will serve you as loyalty as your favorite tan khakis, blue jeans, or dark trousers. The difference is, they stand alone and go with almost anything, year round.

White jeans bring pure, blank, and bright burst to a head-to-toe-look, and unlike other casual bottoms, don’t equate into the color relation with any separate you pair them with. They’re close to universal as you can get, next to your natural bare legs.

You will see that they are mentioned throughout the book in outfit ideas from January to December, for I truly believe that the white jean is just that fun, powerful, and versatile. Hopefully, by year’s end you will feel the same.

BE ADVENTUROUS: Looks every fashionista must try

2011-06-13T04:55:00.000-07:00

There are so many ways to be creative in terms of style and fashion. A splash of glitter and bright colors will do the trick when done right. While everyone else go sport the “boring” looks in beige and gray, divert to the path of boldness and surely you’ll become an instant hit!

VINTAGE CLOTHING: A Blast From The Past

Have you ever noticed that some women look as if they’ve stepped right out of a fashion magazine? Their look is perfectly appointed in shape and color, cleverly fitted in areas that most women don’t give much attention to anymore, and boasts a certain elegance that speaks to a true lady like air. It might be a portrait-collar jacket in grassy green reminiscent of Jacqueline Kennedy in the 1960s – except this version is paired with jeans and beaded clutch.

When you are stopped in your tracks by a garment that is like nothing you have ever seen, it may, in fact e a classic vintage garment, or a new version that is inspired by an original created decades ago. Fashion designers of every ilk, look to the past when they set out to create what they want their customers to wear. From vintage stores and consignment shops, to thrift shops and swap meets, vintage clothes offer both professional tastemakers and real women the option of having a unique stamp and original edge to their

creations and personal style.

For you, it may simply be a whimsical 1960s Pucci print silk neck scarf that you nabbed from your mother’s closet. Today, you may wear it as a sash belt with dark tailored pants and a denim jacket. If you don’t own anything vintage, today is the day. You may choose a pair of 1940s stovepipe pants with four-inch cuffs, reminiscent of Joan Crawford. The idea is to dress in the times gone by without looking like you’re wearing a costume.

SPLASH OF ASIA: Departing From Stereotypes

Asian prints seem to patiently wait their turn to come “in” and “out” of fashion with a Zenlike confidence, knowing that, for the most stylish women, they are always “in” heavy rotation. Whether opting for signature Chinese prints that take cues from the country’s traditional paintings and interior design embroideries, often featuring swirly dragons, artful lanterns, and soothing clouds atop scenic mountains, your visual journey is almost limitless. Silk fabrics with black or dark grounds are probably the most recognizable,

but brighter colors like lie and coral look just as good, even this time of year.

A Chinese cheongsam, the simple, straight-lined dress with a mandarin collar closing diagonally at the side ( and daringly high side slits) is an amazing party dress. You can also consider just a pair of embroidered Chinese slippers for the nights entertaining at home. And how about a Japanese kimono with your white jeans instead of that expected blazer?

STYLE IS PERSONAL

It’s always a challenge to be stylish when we try too hard. In fact, it could be a lot of fun when we know how to play with what is best within our limits. May it be a blast from the past by going vintage, or embracing rich cultures and traditions by mixing them with the modern chic, style is always personal and you have no one to impress but you!

GETTING INKED: Is a tattoo really for you?

2011-06-06T02:50:00.000-07:00

More and more stylish, sophisticated celebrities are adding fuel to the tattoo revolution. It makes the skin art form even more alluring when you witness such unassuming and seemingly elegant starlets going under the needle. Oscar-winning actress Angelina Jolie has a tribal dragon tattoo . TV star Alyssa Milano has a reported seven different markings in places that rarely see daylight. Producer and actress Drew Barrymore has a butterfly tattoo just beneath her navel. Hollywood sex goddess Pamela Anderson sports a tough, barbed-wire armband tattoo. Sweet Sarah Michelle Gellar has a Tao symbol near her ankle. And this list would not be complete without a mention of the ever controversial Britney Spear’s lower back fairy tattoo. Seemingly elegance at its best!

WHY YOU SHOULD

Memories

Of all the tattoos I’ve seen, this is probably one of the most common categories of inspiration. Whether it be a small “R.I.P.” piece on your arm for a cousin that died before his time or the name of your ancestors, these are the kinds of things that are begging to be the basis of a tattoo design.

But another facet of the “memories” idea that is often overlooked would be things that you really loved at one point in life. I feel these are just as viable as tattoo design ideas as departed loved ones, personally. It always makes me smile when I hear somebody talk about how they’re not sure they want a certain tattoo because “well, it’s going to be there forever so I’d better love it forever”. Because it’s a memory, something that helped define who you are must be the very basis of the tattoo (even though it may not have manifested itself in immediately apparent ways).

Tributes

While these may look and smell very similar to memories, there’s an important distinction: tributes are the kinds of things you’d get tattoos for that haven’t yet “ceased”. For example, you have tattoos for your children and your wife .

There’s always the possibility that your relationship could end (one way or another), so you need to weigh that before taking the “I (heart) Regina” plunge. But if you’re pretty sure the relationship is going to go the distance , then I say go for it. You’re only going to get one pass at this “life” thing, after all.

Passions

If you’ve been going to see some sports team play for years and years and it’s something you’re truly passionate about, then go ahead and get that team logo tattoo you’ve been secretly dreaming of. If anybody voices disagreement with your design, you could kindly retort with something about their mother and how it was a good thing they didn’t get that particular tattoo.

Personal passions are fairly few and far between, in my experience. If there’s something you truly love, then a tattoo is a great way to show off how you feel. And if you’re not quite so into that thing a few years down the road, then you can count it as a memory!

WHY YOU SHOULD NOT

Risk of Infection

Tattoos increase risk of contracting infections or STD’s. Once contracted, they can require months or years of treatment, and still may not be curable. The risk is minimized if you go to a fully registered and licensed tattoo parlor, but it is still possible to contract a serious infection from a "safe" location. Even at fully vetted tattoo parlors, inking needles may have seen multiple customers before coming near you.

Risk of Death

It may sound melodramatic, but for people with serious medical conditions, tattoos can present a very real risk to health and life. People with heart conditions, epilepsy, diabetes, hemophilia, and allergies should not get tattoos. The list also includes those who have had organ transplants, anyone on blood thinners, and those who are pregnant or nursing. Both the conditions and the medications for them can affect the body’s ability to survive tattooing. It is not only the risk of infection from inking needles that should be considered. Sometimes the ink itself can lead to serious health complications by interfering with medications. In the case of pregnant or nursing women, the chances of passing infection or toxic chemicals from the tattoo to the baby are great.

Stigma

In many societies, tattoos are thought to signify low or dangerous character. Those with tattoos have been known to be mistaken for gang members by both "respectable" people and people who are really in gangs (the latter of which can be dangerously territorial). There is also the chance others might take the tattoo to represent loose morals. Especially for women, this can attract an unpleasant group of unwanted suitors.

Permanence

You loved someone so much you put his (or her) name on your skin. Now you are no longer with that person and you want to forget all about them. Your tattoo proves your gang loyalty, but you got out of that life ages ago. Your awesome foreign-language tattoo doesn’t mean what you thought it meant; it’s actually something quite embarrassing about your personal habits. The design looked great on paper and is a mess on your body. You need to get rid of it fast!

There are tattoo removal services. However, these work only if you are not in a hurry and have plenty of money to spare. Removal services can cost several thousand pesos and take months to fully erase even small images.

THE CHOICE IS YOURS

The choice is yours, but is a tattoo what you really want to do to express yourself? Take a breather and think before getting inked. Although the look may feel sexy at the moment, and look cool for a few years, your life and style will evolve. Consider that the area you may choose to paint may not always be as firm as it is today. And you may be working at a firm that has a very different outlook than you do today.

If you are thinking of getting a tattoo, keep in mind the risks to your future – physical, social, and financial – before going ahead with it.

“YOU’RE HIRED!” : Job interview what not’s and must-do’s

2011-05-31T07:34:00.000-07:00

“ I don’t easily get impressed. ”

It was around 9:00 o ‘clock in the morning in one of the tallest buildings in the business and commercial district of Eastwood City, Libis when a young lady fresh from the portals of her dear blue and white alma matter made this “winning statement” (according to the boss) and nailed her one of her first jobs. She was in a tan colored business suit with black pinstripes, black pointy-toed sling-back heels and a freshly blow dried coif. With a sprinkle of eloquence, finesse and pinch of confidence her “performance” was a sure fire hit! Yes, that young lady was me.

I can still hear my former boss say “Ms. Espinosa, you’re hired!” I never felt like the best candidate for the job I was interviewed for, but with preparation and inner composition, I knew that I will not flunk or fail to impress hiring managers, back then. The position required me to, among others, interview new hires. It was not a call center and hiring was not as massive, but I pretty much had at least one person to interview on a daily basis on top of all my other tasks. I was the second to the last person to approve an applicant’s employment or internship and my recommendation was more often than not, likewise the “last say” of the boss. I can likewise right there and then, “reject” an applicant.

If only I could make a video out of the “interview boo-boo’s”, it can top even that of American Idol’s disaster auditions. From wrong grammar, catastrophic pronunciations, overly confident remarks, lost in translation answers, and even to the “shameless attires”, name it, and I have surely heard or seen it.

READY, GET SET, GO!

It is a common mistake of the job seeker to believe that interviewers possess some kind of clairvoyance. They think that they really don’t have to go out of their way to present a certain image because an interviewer is going to just magically pick up on their sterling qualities. Oh no, the pyramids of Egypt were not built overnight and neither will you instantly get hired. The cold, hard reality is you do have to put forth an effort and present some behaviors that your interviewer will respond to. Here are a few interviewing mistakes I have occasionally encountered during my HR stint, which potential candidates make and how to avoid such a career fiasco. Learn from them and please job hunter, DO NOT COMMIT THE SAME MISTAKE!

YOU HAVE NOTHING TO BE AFRAID OF WHEN YOU ARE PREPARED

Prepare. Prepare. Prepare. Did I mention prepare?

Going to a job interview and seriously not knowing anything about the company, the position, and most especially NOT dressing up well ( or at least decently and appropriately ), is an almost certainty that your resume will be up next for the shredder to devour. The only exception is when you miraculously have a deaf interviewer.

The job description is usually in line with your past experience, your being a fresh graduate or your educational attainment. You send out your resume, receive an interview request and you think you will surely get the “offer” so you do not even bother to “get ready” for an interview.

Wrong!

Before an interview, may it be your first job or your nth, always read the job description. Compare your past employment duties with the responsibilities set for your potential position. You can always get ready by thinking about possible questions a hiring manager may ask you and of course, prepare your answers.

Organize mentally and talk about your achievements, as well as career expectations. Look at your resume and refresh your memory with details you might have forgotten. This is the best time to “sell” yourself!

BLABBER MOUTHS AND PSEUDO-MUTES ARE TURN-OFFS

There is a huge difference between giving emphasis to your answers and blurting out answers without even thinking!

An interview is a bit like a minefield and your every step counts. Take your time. Think twice before you answer as you are constantly scrutinized and judged in one of the longest hours of your career. Even an innocent question may result in an answer that will disqualify you immediately. I once asked what the favorite color of a fresh graduate was just to break the ice, and the interviewee already gave a lecture on the difference among blue, purple, and periwinkle.

Do not tell them that you could not stand working with your boss or colleagues. This is not the time to patronize your interviewer as this reflects on what kind of employee you used to be and will be. Do not admit you have missed your bus stop to get off at the office building because you were reading a celebrity magazine, tweeting or worse wore the wrong pair of shoes.

If you’re coasting into minute number 31 in your answer to one seemingly basic question, and the interviewer is starting to fidget or yawn, wind it up. On the other hand, if the interviewer pauses after you answer a question, then that may mean he was expecting more. Speak up!

NEVER LET THE “NON-VERBAL CUES” GO BAD

I know it’s a cliché, but a firm handshake and good eye contact really make a good impression. Now, of course, you can make an exception on the handshake if you have a physical condition that prevents it. Otherwise, do try to give it your best. I can’t explain the psychology behind it, but people tend to equate a limp handshake with weakness. And, unless weakness is a job prerequisite, you’re out of luck.

It is perhaps this aspect of an interview that would benefit most from a high emotional intelligence or your ability to read unspoken cues from other people. Watch the interviewer’s eyes. I know I will hear from lots of people who’ll say they’re so shy they can’t make eye contact. I understand that, but, right or wrong, be prepared for an interviewer to take that as a sign that you won’t be able to stand up for yourself at work, and judge you accordingly.

Sit up straight. As a manager, if I’m interviewing someone who is slumped down in the chair, I’m going to assume disinterest in the job. My assumption may not be correct, but it’s the one I’ll make.

GRACE UNDER PRESSURE = WORK ETHICS

Employers always look for employees who can multitask and perhaps eat stress for breakfast. The traffic of tasks can sometimes be unreasonable and it is an extreme plus if you can still smile at the end of the day as if you just had a walk in the park.

Once you have lost your composure, do not stress. Interviewers prepare their questions to eliminate the candidates not fit for the job. They expect candidates to be nervous but they also expect them to show commitment and interest in the position. Once you have stumbled on the answer, do not think all is lost because then you will look disengaged and disinterested in the position.

Forget about your small mistakes, clear your mind and start afresh. Maintain eye contact with interviewers and show your engagement. Answer with zeal and enthusiasm and ask questions in return. It is best if you manage to invite interviewers to a discussion so that your interview feels like a conversation. The hiring decision is made not only based on your experience but also on your ability to bond with your potential supervisors and team members. Failure to establish such relation is always a failure to get the offer.

Keep up your enthusiasm for the position and your conviction that you are the best candidate. Focus on issues that are relevant for the hiring managers and ooze confidence - this will help to elevate you above all other candidates and help you secure the job.

GO AHEAD , “ASK”

In my fair share of job interviews, I too always hated the part where an interviewer asks if I have any questions. Sometimes you can’t possibly know enough just from an interview to be able to form any decent and non-repetitive questions. Sometimes the interviewer has been so thorough in his descriptions of the job and company that there doesn’t seem to be any more to ask. Therefore, the best questions to ask are those that pertain directly to something the interviewer has said during the interview. Make clarifications if you must.

It shows you’ve been listening.

HEADS UP!

Hired or not, always see criticism as an opportunity to improve yourself, craft, and work. Expect challenging tasks. Be honest. Keep your eyes and mind on creating the best career for you. Focus on what you’ve got
and celebrate your originality. Forge on, fly higher and get the job done!

SHOES SHINE!

2011-05-26T18:31:00.000-07:00

Telling a woman’s station in life is easy. Look at her shoes and you will instantly know her whole story – or at least the story she wants you to know.

Is she a pampered princess who travels by car and a driver? Is she someone who is on her feet all day long, and then runs for the bus or jeepney home? Maybe she’s the CEO of a multinational company who trots from her carpeted corner office to fancy lunch meetings all week. One look at her shoes will give you a clue as to which road she’s been traveling – or one day hopes to travel.

While most women tend to worry more about the style of their shoes or how they match a particular outfit, the actual condition and appearance of their shoe of choice gets kicked to the curb. The visuals are at once sad and funny: puppy-nibbled heels, “witchy” curled toes, cat-scratched leather surfaces, and the classic super stretched opening a la Minnie Mouse. There attributes can make even the most expensive pair of designer shoes look like hand-me-down. Maximize your shoes potential and love the feet you’re in!

THE GOOD WOOD AND WHERE THE RUBBER MEETS THE ROAD

Take a moment and commit to caring for new shoes and revitalizing your existing shoe collection in a way that will make you shine from the bottom up. I have two simple things you can do to ensure that your shoes remain ready for their close-up for years to come.

First, when looking at the price of new shoes, automatically add an additional 500 to 1000 pesos to the price tag. This will get you in the habit of factoring in the cost of cedar shoe trees for each and every pair of dress shoes. Choose cedar over plastic for their ability to absorb moisture, maintain the shoes’ original shape, and naturally iron out creases caused by walking and toe-flexing.

Second, have rubber soles applied to the bottoms of your new and old shoes. You can even find ultrathin versions to keep your stilettos looking sleek, while adding a layer of protection between you and hard-paved surfaces. When they wear down, you simply replace them – not your shoes.

GO FOR OPEN-TOE

Think of your best evening events in the next few months. You arrive on the red carpet, if only in your mind, stepping straight from a fabulous car into a heated venue. Is a sometimes, heavy, close-toe pump really necessary? Especially with that flowing gown that is just screaming for an elegant set of perfectly polished toes to peek out and complete the look.

I wouldn’t recommend open-toe shoes for any other time but glamorous evening events in the cooler months to come. Wearing shoes that expose the feet, whether a peep-toe pump or a strappy sandal that bares all, is a way to increase an outfit’s softness and femininity. And unlike closing the feet once the weather goes colder or wetter, it is now okay to reveal the lady in you, if only by night, all year long. Girls just gotta look far more fashionable in the process!

INVEST IN A PAIR OF “BLACK SWAN” FLATS

There’s one thing that can save an outfit and your attitude better than any other: comfortable shoes. Women usually know how long they can wear a particular shoe – from eight-hour low heels that get you through the day, to the three-hour high heels that help you make a great entrance. But some days you can be caught off guard! You leave for the day, not anticipating a spontaneous evening outing, which leaves you and our aching feet wearing a three-hour shoe for eight hours or more.

Spend on a pair of quality leather or satin ballerina flats ( a half size larger maybe to accommodate swollen feet). Choose a basic, neutral, or dark color that will marry well to almost anything you are wearing. The best choices: black satin or flesh-tone leather or vice versa.

Many stores will carry ballerina flats in the 500 pesos and up range, in which case I recommend grabbing a few pairs in different colors for different seasons. Sometimes a bright pink pair can look fun and whimsical, taking the onus off you for not wearing heels. They add a quirky vibe that removes the feeling of what people expect you to be in – namely heels!

Stash a pair in your office or in your car. They’re compact enough to store in a tote bag. Sneakers can run the risk of ruining a dressier outfit, but a pair of ballet flats can work with anything from a business suit to a full skirt and sweater to a ball gown skirt (in a pinch) – and you’ll garner glares of envy from women suffering through hours being stabbed in their heels. Oh well.

Go ahead, Ilongga fashionista, grab your best shoes and shine!

GO FOR MORE

2011-05-11T17:21:00.000-07:00

Upsize drink, Go large fries, bottomless iced tea, buy one take one, free extra rice – these are all what we call “ADD-ONS” or perhaps upgrades. When we take a step higher, the convention is we get something “better” out of it. In a sense, fast food promos may be applied in fashion, only that it can sometimes make or break the look of the day.

Putting something “extra” to your ensemble may be difficult when you don’t know how to start, however that “little something extra” in your attire may just do the trick.

PRO-“PRINTS & PATTERNS”

Prints, plaids, and stripes are a stylish option for all women no matter what your size. So why, you might be asking yourself, has it been such a long-held belief that patterns only flatter tall and/or slender women and take fashion points away from fuller (ahem) or shorter figures?

The key to looking fabulous in that floral-patterned-patterned garment or checkered jacket is balanced proportions and an overall look that does not overshadow your personality. Leave the solids in the drawer for a change.

Try a horizontal striped T-shirt under a tailored blazer with your favorite jeans. Try a muted-plaid skirt with a knee boot to give your look some energy in the dead of the cold or rainy season. If you are larger (ahem x2) or smaller than the average woman, avoid extremes such as teeny prints, microflorals, or, on the opposite end, large checks or patters in bright colors. Moderation applies well here. When in doubt, go for the medium-size prints that make a chic style statement without screaming for attention.

HOT FOR HATS

When Faye Dunaway’s portrayal of the infamous Bonnie Parker in the 1967 movie Bonnie and Clyde had her wearing a sleek, simple beret, hat sales of the same style shot up almost instantly around the globe. Primarily because she looked just as powerful as her male counterparts – even in her fitted pencil skirts and bold lipstick. And as the 1970s approached, what woman didn’t want a little more power? So female fans of the now-classic style flick sat up and took notice.

As we look around at women on the street today, the business of hats as stylish accessories is virtually dead, when in fact, wearing a hat is one of the simplest ways to add a smidge of verve to a basic coat, cool-weather pantsuit, or your favorite jeans and turtleneck sweater, especially if you want to look more original than the next woman on the street.

Whether a beret, a fedora, a floppy brim, or a newsboy, build your entire outfit around how it makes you feel. Take a wool newsboy or beret and give a menswear twist to a blazer and trouser combo. Hark back to the 1970s with a felt of floppy-brimmed hat a la Diana Ross in Mahogany, which can bring a shirtdress up to runway standards. Or go “gangster” with a stingy-brimmed fedora tilted to one side – just like one of the many signature looks of Sophia Loren in the 1960s.

Wouldn’t you just love to feel the joy today that Mary Tyler Moore did as she flung up her beret in the opening sequence of her legendary hit television show? Word of precaution though, when wearing hats make sure you are not trying to pull a Lady Gaga or a royal wedding stint, otherwise people might pick you up and bring you straight to “Pototan” or worse, “Mandaluyong”. Well, you’ve got to toss one on before you can toss it up! You go girl!

LIFE PALETTES & STYLE FILES

2011-05-08T20:11:00.000-07:00

Sometimes we just need a little “me-time”. Our initial thoughts will lead us to quick fixes like a shopping splurge, spa treatments, a night with friends, or perhaps hitting the gym. These are great ways to “have fun”, but here are a few more things you can do for “YOU” everyday without costing a penny. Yay!

IDENTIFYING YOUR “LIFE PALETTE”

Most people have a favorite color or several colors that they prefer and viscerally respond to. I refer those colors as a “life palette.”

Take a close look at your closet, your bedroom, your makeup drawer, or shelf of nail polish. You will no doubt see that you probably have a particular color pattern within each. It might be mostly neutrals in your closet, with bold pastel accents throughout. Your makeup might be all warm tones with dusty, burnished finishes. And your nail colors might be all sheer pastels with a hint of shimmer.

We sometimes unconsciously select the colors we like and create a continuum of this grouping in all that we do, yet often we do not trust it to guide us – especially when shopping. Sometimes we look at a mannequin and want to purchase the entire outfit – or wonder if we should instead just buy the red skirt we adore. Trusting the latter choice allows you to learn on the palette of what you already own, knowing that this new addition (in a color from your life palette) will unconditionally complement many of the items already in your closet – thus saving you money and space.

Embrace the colors you instinctively love, and your wardrobe will eventually fall into place as if a designer dressed you.

MAKE YOUR OWN TIME-SAVING “STYLE FILE”

Actresses do it. Professional stylists do it, Even your favorite top designers do it. They all call it “inspiration.” I call it a “style file.” A style file is the way to a better style in less time and with less stress. It is simple, eliminates clutter (you’ll be tossing out magazine pages upon that will never matter again), and keeps you feeling new.

The next time you flip through a magazine and see a look that really makes you swoon, and see a look that really makes you swoon, look a little closer at what the women in the images are wearing and break the outfits down into pieces. You can glean a fashion idea from just about any image if you take the time to really see the clothing elements and not get distracted by who is wearing it, her size, hair, and the exotic location – we call this the fantasy. It is what sells the clothes, but it can also give you the road map to a great outfit. You will wonder why you had not done this sooner since it is virtually free when you stop to think about the time you save versus the cost of a fashion magazine.

Tear out what you like, even if it is just a shot of a belt buckle. Keep the pages in a binder or folder and divide them by daytime, nighttime, intimates, shoes – whatever works for you. There’s just one rule: Run to it if you are ever short on time or new outfit ideas, which happens to even the most stylish women. But not you, right after the very first rrrrrrrrrip!

FOR “ME”

Staying organized and focused on the weeks, months and days ahead is never passé. Start a new revolution within you, trust your taste, and simply dress to express, because by then all others will just be impressed! Toodles!

WRITING IN STYLE

2011-04-25T01:24:00.000-07:00

“A girl should be two things: CLASSY and FABULOUS”- Coco Chanel

It’s not always all about the Birkin bag, the Manolos, the Louboutins, the LVs, or Ms. Coco. Sometimes being a fashionista, let alone a fashion icon can be epitomized in the “little things”. The “little things” matter, and sometimes could make or break your entire statement. Just so to give you a heads up on why the little things matter, here’s one way to “prettify”your get-up.

THE PEN IS MIGHTIER THAN YOU THINK

Your ten-peso writing pen might be stealing you fashion edge in moments that really count. Sure, it probably makes no difference to you when writing a check behind closed doors, since the recipient will never know. But when you have a stylish, quality pen in your hand out in the open, even the most mundane use gets a first-class upgrade.

WISDOM OF THE AGES

It wasn’t until the 1940s that a woman would pull out a ballpoint pen to write in private or in public. A proper lady used a fountain pen, as did just about everyone else for that matter. The heavy and sometimes messy metal fountain pens that most of us see as special or fancy were standard in the handbag of a woman, with or without notable style. Today, choosing to write with a quality, design-forward writing pen, be it fountain pen or not, versus a disposable, plastic ballpoint, is a decision that can punctuate your entire look.

Think about it. Your every commonplace action leading up to you pen has your attention; why stop? Your blouse of silk is a favorite and it fits perfectly, your watch or bracelet says a bit about who you are. Your gorgeous ring is a symbol of something important. You spent 200 pesos on that perfect manicure and expensive lotion that leave your hands supple. And out comes a chewed-up, plastic pen with clotted ink in the tube’s chamber.

IN THE MOMENT

Use this moment to look at what you are pulling out to write with. Maybe you have a few pens. Discard the weakest and keep the one that looks the best. If that pen is still not commensurate with your taste level when it is time to seal the deal, or just write a monthly bill, it’s time to treat yourself to one that is. No need to send me a hand-written thank-you either, although with a new pen, I’m sure you will want to.

LEARN A NEW FASHION TERM : "jacquard"

2011-04-20T00:11:00.000-07:00

Prada Velluto Jacquard Tote

JACQUARD (jack-card): Elaborate woven or knitted pattern made on a Jacquard loom, invented by Joseph Marie Jacquard in France in 1801. Fabrics may have a background of plain, rib, satin, weave with the design usually in sati weave. Some fabrics have specific names such as brocade, damask, and tapestry. Also may be knitted, and then it’s called Jacquard knit.

A fabric process most commonly used for men’s neckties, Jacquards can be found just as readily in your own closet – if you look closely. Take a look at that satin skirt you love, with the subtle floral print or polka dots that shimmer and become visible when the light hits just right. Or even the lining of a blazer that has a little more whimsy and character than just plain black satin. These pieces are most likely created on a jacquard loom.

WORK IT!

2011-04-19T04:13:00.000-07:00

Was your 2011 resolution to go to the gym? How long did you keep up with your promise? More often than not, losing weight and keeping fit is just oh-so-hard to do. One of the ways to keep this, let alone make it a habit, is to wear workout clothes that will inspire us to keep it moving.

Motivating yourself to exercise is tough whether you’re working out to a program on DVD in the privacy of your home or in a public or co-ed space. You know the scene at the gym – some members – the gym bunnies – are in better shape than others and hop around letting everyone know it. Others – maybe you (and mois!) slink around trying to draw as little attention as possible.

Give yourself a self-esteem boost. Wear workout clothes that make you look and feel good – own two or three outfits that are simple, comfortable, and fit well. Try a tank in bright color, paired with a darker drawstring yoga pants and your cleanest sneakers, athletic shoes, or even ballet slippers, depending on the activity. Or, invest in a supple velour sweat suit in a dark neutral with a bright-colored shoe.

The cut of your workout gear should cover enough of you so that you never feel exposed, yet not large enough to make you feel like you are under a tarp. For instance, swap the XXL giveaway T0shirts for lightweight, zip-front track jackets that can be opened to reveal more, as your body takes on the new shape. And instead of oversized men’s sweatpants, opt for ultrathin, drawstring lounge pants that offer the full coverage of a pajama pant without the think, visual-pound-adding bulk of traditional sweats.

No need to go to great expense by buying brand-named athletic gear, and definitely avoid working out in heavy makeup or high-maintenance coiffed hair (though a subtle energizing scent could be nice). The idea is that when you look good, you feel better about doing anything - even if it’s an activity you dread. High style can inspire you to high performance and results that stick. Every Ilongga fashionista deserves to work it! Toodles!

LEARN A NEW FASHION TERM : "pique"

2011-04-17T19:18:00.000-07:00

PIQUE (pee-kay): Group of durable fabrics characterized by corded effects either warp-wise or filling-wise, most notably created with a waffle texture similar to that of a honeycomb weave. Bird’s-eye pique has a diamond-shaped woven-in dobby pattern. Pique is used for dresses, blouses, pants, sportswear, handbags, and neckwear.

Just as the best cooks speak the language of the culinary world – that is, the difference between soufflé and pudding – a fashion-savvy woman knows the vocabulary of the fashion world.

The flirty tennis skirt, the timeless men’s short-sleeve polo shirt, and even a classic but common dish towel have something in common: they are usually made of a cotton pique fabric. Some garments feature pique that feels a bit like a microcorduroy, usually garments from England.

For me, pique signals the start of the warmer seasons, although you can pretty much find it in shirtings year-round. You can feel the texture of a miniature waffle pattern in your hands when you smooth fingers across it, and it has a soft yet firm posture that quietly asks, “Tennis, anyone?”

There is something about a woman in a crisp, white pique blouse that you will never forget. It speak of authority without looking like you borrowed a shirt from your man’s closet. When worn beneath a blazer or suit, a pique dress shirt’s recognizable texture whispers taste and quality in an ever-so-subtle way without if you screaming it. Either way you spin it, if you want to make a visual statement that speaks of sophistication with a smidge of dressy, it beats plain, combed cotton any day.

LEARN A NEW FASHION TERM : "ruching"

2011-04-14T23:36:00.000-07:00

RUCHING (roo-shing): Trimming made by pleating a strip of lace, ribbon, net, fine muslin, or silk so that it ruffles on both sides. Made by stitching through the center of pleating. Also spelled rouche, ruch.

Women who want their midsection to look svelte should know the power of ruching , a trimming effect that creates a visual tension, almost as if gathered fabric is being obviously pulled to one direction. You will find ruching on everything from swimsuits to evening gowns. The look of a tensely ruched garment can create a slimming illusion to the eye and actually minimize a “questionable” area.

When shopping for the perfect top that is both elegant and functional, be sure to ask the most seasoned sales representative you can find if there are any tops that have ruched details. If they aren’t certain what you mean, simply say “the gathered sections of fabric on a top.”

The look can also bring to mind the 1940s, when women delighted in a sexy fit that was still sophisticated and left something to the imagination. Think of Betty Garble, the original bombshell swimsuit pinup girl who regularly offered curves yet revealed little to nothing, thanks to the power of ruching.

CLAIMING THE REST OF THE YEAR

2011-04-14T10:55:00.000-07:00

To have style is to give shape to the way you carry yourself. My focus here is primarily on the way we dress, but the truth is that every way in which you present yourself to the world is important.

Set a tone for the year ahead rather than commit to the long forgotten resolutions - which most of us break in two weeks time (or less). Think of adding or practicing good habits, as opposed to denying yourself. If you're in the habit of wearing black, commit to adding some color. If you're accustomed to loose garments, try more tailored or form- fitting ones. Start one at a time.

Embrace a positive evolution. Claim the rest of the year as your most stylish ever. Make a pact with yourself to explore new ideas, break bad habits, and be open to change.

STOCK UP ON SUMMER

2011-04-12T02:12:00.000-07:00

It’s summertime and the livin’ is easy, especially if you are fully stocked with warm-weather requisites. You want low maintenance, high style. Swipe on lip gloss versus a regimen of lipstick. You can pull your hair back, glide on a little sunscreen, and hop into any convertible faster than you put down the phone from which the invite came(ok, any car will do).

With summer arriving this very day, pull the emergency brake on grabbing your multiple layers of cold-weather armor and think about limiting the number of pieces you can wear to a maximum o three. By starting now, you will be perfectly conditioned when the phone rings with an invitation for that spontaneous beach day. You’ll save more summertime and grab-an-go like you’ve been doing it all year long. So here are two major summer styles the fearless Ilongga fashionista must willingly flaunt this season of the ‘halo-halo’.

NO DUNKIN DONUT: JUMP INTO AN ORANGE AND HOT PINK ENSEMBLE

Juicy, irreverent, and almost shocking! Marrying hot pink and orange takes its cues from the look and feel of French Rivera and the classic exteriors of buildings on Caribbean islands or Bermuda (okay, Boracay will do) where seeing two bold saturated colors such as these right beside each other is actually quite normal.

Think of the brighter umbrellas that line the beaches of Nice, or the chapels and storefronts that line cobblestone Caribbean streets, that make you feel as if you are passing an array of juicy popsicles (okay, I should stop daydreaming)!

Mixing your boldest pinks and most saturated oranges should infuse this feeling into your bones on a day where the sun is just not shining or even on a starry summer night. Add a splash of bright white or tan accessories to cool down this combo if it’s too shocking for you. Go ahead, take the plunge as this might be the only season when no one would dare mistake you for that world famous donut.

AKIN TO FLORES DE MAYO: GO FLORAL

In my years of reading fashion magazines, I came across though an idiom that has always stuck in my head: Unflattering prints were called “flowered” prints while the gorgeous counterpart was called a ”floral” print.

Look at your floral in a three-way mirror, or create a two-way mirror in any room by holding up a compact reviewing the back. Notice exactly where your poppies pose, your posies rise, and your roses bloom. If any of these lovely garden varieties hit you where “the Good Lord split you” or any other modest are, it may be time to remove them from your backyard.

Gorgeous floral prints should welcome the summer with a burst of ladylike femininity and fun! Pair a pastel floral top with pale pants and a shoe in a color from your print’s petals, or wear a jewel-toned flirty floral skirt with white a sleeveless tank top to let the world know what time it is. Keep it fun, and not funny, as the giggle might be at your expense if the flowers are signaling unwanted attention. Flower your world, Ilongga fashionista, for it is the season to show some skin, tan lines and those prints from your garden!

DESTINATION: BO-RA-CAY (Ahhhhh!)

2011-04-11T20:52:00.000-07:00

White sand, oh white sand!

Summertime = BORACAY.

Well, at least for me and every Ilongga with wanderlust, summer is not complete without taking time to visit the place where I am allowed to flaunt even my bulges without piercing eyes straight into the problem area(s). Boohoo! The slim versus chubby issue is not what makes a true fashionista,anyway.

“Nobody cares” in Boracay. Everyone is there to have a great time. This is the time to flaunt the beach bod, de-stress, and perfectly enjoy the blue margaritas on the beach. Definitely, this is the season for hot, fierce and sizzling styles! No matter what size you are in, every Ilongga should (or is even obligated to) have a passion for fashion.

No, I am not gonna tell you how “perfect” every experience in Boracay should be, could be or must be. We already know that. Before you take that trip this “Bora” season, here are some fashion tips you might consider just so to distinguish you from the rest! Yipee!

GO AHEAD, WEAR STRIPES WITH PLAIDS

What a boring world would it be if this, of all fashion myths, were in fact a style truth? Just picture it, streets full of pedestrians and beach front of tourists wearing nothing but safe patterns, cautiously paired with coordinating solids and expected textures. Snore. Zzzzzzz.

When in the land of the white sands, we could all wave goodbye to such wonderful designers as Christian Lacroix and his quirky, bold plaids worn in a stylish cacophony with traditional ticking stripes. And no longer would we need the services of Brooks Brothers, who are heralded globally for their signature summer patchwork plaids and striped shirt/plaid tie combinations. Farewell to runway and real way versions (at least for this season).

There is one simple rule to keep in mind for women and the men they dress: when choosing bigger, brazen plaids, balance out the pairing of a stripe by choosing smaller, finer lines. And the rule works back-to-front – the more pronounced the stripe (think awning stripes), the more precious the plaid should be.

RAWR! : GO AFRICAN

The cradle of civilization, Africa, offers a unique and distinct influence on high fashion. The power is in its textiles, which have little to no trend boundaries.

There was a time when African prints were only worn by Africans or people of African descent for traditional ceremonies and rituals. You’ve seen the majesty of the flowing cloths from the various African countries, wrapped with dignity on the heads of women, or draped sculpturally over the shoulders of proud men. From Ghana’s colorfully festive Kente cloth that took the late 1980’s by storm to Zaire’s brown-and-harvest-toned Kuba cloth that has a story in each imperfect stitch, you can almost tour the entire continent’s moods by just studying the cloths indigenous to each region.

Rich, organic, African fabrics and prints can also add interest to your look and fashion mood when worn juxtaposed with more modern silhouettes. Not trying to look regal is the trick. Glean a nuance from the beloved country and let in shine brighter alongside your Boracay basics. Rawr!

HIPPY CHICK, EH?

Oh yes, I am a hippy chick. My hips are just over the top! Thanks to my grandmama’s genes, the curves are just so not easy to hide. For “hippy chicks’ like me, try a swimsuit with “high cut’ legs.

Swimsuit should now be on standby. Another trick is looking for suits that have a gradient color treatment (fading from one color to another). Select the version that has a darker tone on the bottom. (Bonus tip: Sarongs don’t hide as much as you may think. If anything, a big wrap can bring more attention to all we’re trying to camouflage.

So to my hippy gurls out there, cheers to more sun, and less self-conscious!

TOUCH OF FRESHNESS

Add a fresh flower to your hair instead of a typical hair accessory and celebrate the glory of Boracay with all its romantic possibilities.

Thin back to the silver screen glamour goddess of the 1930s and 1940s. The most notable flowered icon is jazz legend Billie Holiday. Her signature gardenia, always placed at her left ear, created a feminine look that made her a strange standout whether appearing at a smoky jazz club or making her ground-breaking debut at New York’s Carnegie Hall. You can also fast-forward to today and see Hollywood darling Niecy Nash wearing what has become her signature as well, a row of moist fresh flowers of different types to complement her many different style moods.

You can take this theme into your life today by choosing a fresh flower that speaks to your mood and outfit. Flowers not only represent countries, they also have a nonverbal language and certain aroma-therapeutic qualities that may send both an outward cue and bit of inward therapy.

If you are in need of balance or love, choose a red rose or a red chrysanthemum for your hair. On the days you might be in a bikini, any classic white flower is the perfect accent of flora. And don’t forget to rev up hot nights with the help of the exotic ylang-ylang flower or a traditional carnation, which are said to be aphrodisiacs. Boracay is arguably the sexiest destination this summer, anyway.

The one flower you don’t want in your hair for any reason is an artificial one, unless, ofcourse, you are on a date with a sexy mannequin.

SUMMER OH, SUMMER

There are no hard and fast rules for the summer style that is best for you. Just make sure that you exude the confidence every Ilongga fashionista should have in this season of the “skin’! As some of my sexiest girls have already strut their stuff in the white, wet, and wild shores, grab your bags, darlings and I’ll see you in Boracay!

ON RESET: STYLE IS NO APRIL FOOL

2011-04-08T02:33:00.000-07:00

Don’t be left in the dark – whether in your clothes or in your life! The month ahead welcomes one of my favorite times of the year, the beginning of “Daylight Saving Time”. It usually kicks off on the first Sunday of April, giving you two or more weeks of extended daylight to stress over your taxes, which the Republic of the Philippines will expect in his treasure trove on the fifteenth! Oh, what a joy! Hmmmpft!

Not to fret, though, this is a perfect day to get out of the dark and tackle all things undone, for the darkness and dreariness of the cold and shivery season can assist you in hiding so much. For some women it is a few late-night comfort- food (chips,ice cream, cake, and all that junk) pounds shrouded under layers of dark clothes (ahem!). For other rituals, it might simply be putting pretty clothes and feminine beauty rituals on a shelf until the world brightens up and completely defrosts altogether. Well, guess what today is the day to start shedding the weight gain and unearthing the allure of your “inner girl”.

OUT WITH THE OLD

Beach lover Cristina Jamerlan shares, “I will put the cold dark nights behind me by embracing clothes and a lifestyle that I feel good about in the light. Our summer is definitely here. It’s the season for tan lines! ”

It is not about starting a binge diet or pulling out your sweet candy-flavored lip glosses and free-flowing floral-print dresses; it is about being a bit more conscious of what you eat – and maybe choosing a top in color – over instinctively reaching for your safe, secure black clothes. If you can do this and take April days in toddler steps, all thirty of them, you will see a cumulative result that will be more than obvious come what may, in the merry month of May.

FIRST DAY

View the first day of April as a “reset” button for the warmer months ahead. Daylight will soon be extended, so use the weeks ahead to get ready for your time in the spotlight.

If all else fails, one of my favorite looks on all women this summer, regardless of age or size is a long itchy burlap wrap skirt, worn with a sheer white tank top, a few sizes too small, and men’s dirty work boots and matching orange belt with purple fringe. April fool! Got ya!

NEW ME, NEW YOU

2011-04-04T10:31:00.001-07:00

I love this job! Yes, I am probably one of the few who can honestly say I truly love what I do- write, communicate, debate. As a fashion columnist, I basically go clothing shopping for a living. And with the help of the print media, I can assist every Ilongga fashionsta in looking and feeling better each and every day using what I find or encounter. A blessing,indeed.

STYLE UP!

Style has become the new motivational genre for women and men. When getting on and off airplanes and in an out of automobiles, I have witnessed so many real women (not fashion models) going about their day in the most unflattering clothing. And it makes me so sad. Mostly because on each of these women there was at least one redeeming outfit area that could have been played up, but they consciously or unconsciously chose to play it down. Many times, I just wanted to reach out and politely whisper a tiny little anonymous tip: “Go one size larger on your bra, miss.” Or, “Add a cuff to those pants for maximum glamour.” I would have been slapped or security would have been called. So I chose to keep my mouth shut.

The artist in me has always been fascinated with the way many women dress-from images of celebrities on the big and small screens, to real women who would never imagine that a young man was noticing their shoes and lipstick. I think it began with my second-grade teacher – she had the most beautiful lip color and that suck together just in the corners of her mouth when she spoke. You never saw her reapply as the day went on. It was just always perfectly in place atop her full lips.

LITTLE GROWTHS

My older Espinosa cousins were walking supermodels to me as I was growing up. I distinctly remember feeling so secure holding their hands on the way to preschool – yes, that early – and noticing the jingle of the stacks of thin sterling-silver bracelets on their wrists, and the sound of their slim frames made as they walked across the gravel parking lot in their stacked wedge shoes. I would always try to walk very hard to make the same noise, and would always work (at least for me), since my chubby body was just heavy enough to pull it off.

I am always amazed by how much pain women put up with when there are so many more comfortable solutions that are just as stylish. From shoes to undergarments, there is a world of possibilities so many women rush by to get to their old standbys.

Kind of like sleeping on the remote, you usually wake up on some channel that scares you in the middle of the night. This is what happens when you just start getting dressed each day and not dressing well. To do this, sometimes all you need is a little pearl of inspiration to set you on your way.

YOUR STYLE, YOUR CALL

Whether we realize it or not, when most women give a thumbs-up to a red carpet star or magazine page, they are saying that they’d love to look like that one day, one night. It may seem like an insurmountable task, though. This is why a little growth each day is the best way to get there. Sometimes life can seem like one big to-do list and most women forget to put themselves at the very top.

You will come to find that having style is like riding a bike. You will know it when you have it, and so will every woman who passes you by. You’ve witnessed this before, and know it right away. And just like you respond to other women with great style, you’ll begin to get same reactions. Sometimes it is simple as a locked glance, but those who know, will know.

So jump into the fashion wagon and glam up your style. Never be scared to embrace a new era of your being fabulous! Cheers to a new me everyday and I’m raising my glass to a new you, Ilongga fashionista!

FLAT FOOTED

2011-04-04T10:28:00.001-07:00

I must admit, women generally look sexy in heels! They make us look taller and our legs are leaner than ever. Heels provide us with the instant gratification of goddess-like appeal! However, high heels just like any other indulgence have drawbacks that cause pain in the ass (or better yet, the feet!).

A whole new light is shed to the word ‘sexy feet’ in the form of what is generally known as “flats”. This type of shoes looks comfortable to wear due to the shape of a flat or short set of heels. Overall, they almost look like ballet shoes with slightly rounded or pointed tip, but still looks very sexy. Many of these type of shoes are used by women to perform various activities. For your trendy appearance but bored with high heels, you can try flat shoes and these shoes will beautify your style.

MAKING A CHOICE

I am a fan of flats in as much as I am a fan of high heels. In my experience, I choose flat shoes made from material that really make me comfortable to avoid problems on my feet, such as cramping or fatigue when walking. The many options of style and color are limitless, and now the appearances of flat shoes are very diverse and enriched by the presence of beautiful detail applications such as tape or corsage. The materials are also very varied, ranging from velvet, suede to satin in a variety of attractive colors. Flat shoes on wide insoles can become a more solid choice, because it is usually able to handle the weight of your body.

Feel free to mix and match flat shoes with a variety fashion. You may try capri pants, jeans, mini-skirts, or even knee-length dresses with empire-cut. You can get more performance-look, chic and girly. Also you can wear flat shoes wherever you go. But if you want to adjust to attend the event, you should choose the appropriate model of flat shoes with the type of material and color choices to match.

HOW TO GRAB THE PERFECT PAIR

It’s not just about how cute it is on display. Sometimes, pretty-looking pairs don’t really match the size let alone the shape and contours of your feet. Other pairs of flats on the other hand may look like a drab on display cases, but when worn, could actually turn your feet into an instant hit.

Not all pairs of shoes are best suited for everyone - not even flats. So the question is, how will I choose the right pair for me? Writer and fashion expert Lisa Kovalovich of Ladies’ Home Journal has the following tips on how to grab the perfect pair for each fashionista our there:

1) Do choose current styles. For late summer, you can't go wrong with pointy-toed styles in patent or pretty-colored leathers; flats with metal details, such as buckles and grommets; delicate slingbacks; and feminine ballet styles with bows.

2) Don't go grandma style, wearing shapeless flats with rubber soles in dreary colors -- go for black or brown flats only if they're on the trendy side!

3) Do pair flats with the right skirt length. Flats look best when worn with a shorter skirt (think an inch or more above the knee), since having no heel can make legs look shorter. Showing a bit more leg, then, gains that length back. Look for a skirt with the slightest flare, which adds a modern touch to the look.

4) Don't wear flats with long skirts. Wearing no-heeled shoes with a skirt that falls below the knee is a big mistake -- you achieve a frumpy silhouette.

5) Do choose your pants wisely. Flats are perfect for summer because they look so great with cropped pants and capris. That flash of bare skin between your shoe and hemline looks chic in a Jackie O. sort of way! Go for pants that are either straight-legged or have a tiny flare for the jauntiest effect.

6) Don't go too long or tight with pants. Pants whose hems fall over the back of your shoe look sloppy with flats (but can be just right with heels). Be sure to hem your slacks so they just hit the top of your foot if you prefer your pants on the long side. And avoid very tight pants like leggings; the combination of flats and leggings went out with the '80s!

7) And a final do: Do feel free to fudge the flats trend by choosing a pair with a half-inch heel. Even the tiniest bit of height will make legs look longer and leaner, but still tap into the flats trend.

Go ahead Ilongga fashionista, grab your perfect pair of flats today. A woman cannot have too many shoes anyway and flat shoes can be a girl’s best friend too! Toodles!

POMELO LIFESTYLE: A FASHION REVOLUTION

2011-04-04T10:27:00.003-07:00

Historically, entrepreneurship has been a male-dominated pursuit, but many of today's most memorable and inspirational entrepreneurs are women. And sometimes, they are VERY YOUNG WOMEN.

Retail fashion is a solid business, with constant demand for new clothing products created by fashion designers and the ever-changing whims of celebrities. And boutiques are chic - people value the personalized service and attention they receive, the cozy ambiance, and the unique merchandise that only a boutique can offer.

Though the economic crisis has been affecting everybody today, there are still many who need to stay fashionable at all times. This is why the clothing businesses never run out of customers. It is one business that will never fade out in the trend.

After graduating from De La Salle – College of St. Benilde with a degree in Business Management in 2006, Janice Anne Ong Jardiolin-Lo, owner of booming business Pomelo, knew she had to work hard, in fact harder than anyone else at that time. She was 25 then, mother to a 6 year old (now 11 year old Kiara Nicole) and wife to Wesley Lo. She surmised that companies would least prefer applicants like her, but she was more than determined to try.

POMELO, SAY WHAT?

For the omnipresent, the question that will always come up is, what’s in the name ‘Pomelo”? Every curious customer will ask this ultimate question and the answer is always shared by a laugh or two. Janice shares, “My siblings and I grew up in Pavia in a baranggay called Cabugao Sur. We all agree that it is not the best name for an address. While some of my friends wrote their addresses with names of prestigious subdivisions, we wrote ours with a heavy heart: ‘Cabugao Sur’. When my brother was in high school (without us having to agree how stinky-sounding our address is) he filled up his school forms with ‘No. 1 South Pomelo, Pavia’. We didn't know how long he put up with it until we noticed. That's how the name came about. It then became ‘significant’ for my family.”

ALL DOLLED UP

After graduating from high school, Janice’s mom was persistently asking her to take up medicine but her heart just wasn't in it. She wanted to be in the arts, in any way possible. She shares , “My mom was a fine arts graduate so she knew very well that it wasn't a lucrative course. Despite and in spite of all the stigma that goes with it, she wasn't able to deter my fascination for the arts. So when people ask me, why sell clothes – it’s part of the institution that I love. It's art.”

The idea of a boutique or specialty store was not a silver spoon on the platter for Janice. She wasn’t a fashion major and did not have the initial capital for the business. “My dad was not 100% sure of what I’m getting myself into. He was asking how can I survive with clothes? I told him about the richest man in Spain, which happens to be the owner of Zara, and of course our very own Ben Chan. Still, he wasn't convinced. By September of 2006, we took a small space from our existing gun store to sell some clothes. It’s a crazy mix, I know”, says Janice.

ZOOMING UP UP AND AWAY

The transfer to SM City, did not come in a snap. It was a major milestone for Janice and decisions had to be made fast. In business, time is money, and every biting second had to be spent very well. “ It was “the” option since our location in Marymart Mall is now surrounded by cheaper clothes, ukay-ukay and the likes. My professor back in college kept telling me that the keys to a successful business are location, location and location – and that was a big slap on my face. Although our first 2 years were amazing, I knew for a fact that I have only reached a minuscule of my target market. In 2008 I tried applying for a space with the major malls in the city, but at that time they were not accepting local brands. It was a different kind of blessin though, so my next option was to think of other places to expand, and it just didn't limit me to Iloilo. Our next branch was at "The Ramp" in Shangri-la Plaza and I was set to open small stores like that around Metro Manila for 2010 when a call from a major mall in Iloilo stirred me back home.” shares Janice.

And so VOILA! SM City Iloilo, here comes Pomelo!

BRAINCHILD BRAND

Pomelo’s success is not just because of (re)selling clothes from any other source. Unlike other boutiques that buy wholesale from God knows where and sell them back in retail, Janice has a different stake on such idea. She says, “I am very particular with quality. With the onset of online shopping, I have heard of horror stories of people ordering a nice dress online and had big disappointments when they receive the items. I don’t want that to happen to Pomelo. I want it otherwise. We're not here just to (re)sell clothes. We're here to establish a brand.”

Janice acknowledges that Pomelo was just a brainchild- an idea that sprung from other people’s recognition of her knack for the arts and fashion. After a few years of hard work and pure dedication, now its feet are taking baby steps. “It has a long way to go and grow. Pomelo used to be a one-man team. I’m the purchasing department, the finance division, the delivery girl, the marketing team, and even the one who puts on the tags. My daughter grew up seeing me do these and she loves helping. I even upload the pictures I post in the website, change the mannequin and take pictures at the same time! I love doing all these myself. I’m very particular with details and in a sense, very OC.”, Janice shares with a smile.

PASSION FOR FASHION

“Pomelo” means home to us. I want to share this to my children and so I pray for sustainability and longevity. After all, we didn't go into business thinking that it’s just for the heck of it.”, she shares.

Janice points out that for those wanting to be in the business, they must not rush into any just because for the time being it is swarmed by the buying public. In her experience she emphasizes that first, budding entrepreneurs must do their homework and study the industry they are about to get themselves into. They also have to learn about the market they want to reach, and ask the question “Is the market ready for what you want to offer?. There are many things that have to be considered. Second, the question to be asked is - are you willing to sacrifice?; are you willing to work hard for it? “Going into business won't come like a breeze. It won't mean that just because you have a "business" you can sit in a comfortable chair and place a placard with your name on that says: businessman or business woman. It means getting your hands dirty or maybe lift a 10 kilo box ,which I do.” says Janice. Third, Janice expresses that you have to be passionate about your craft - “It's hard enough that you love what you do, what more if you don't? “

FOR THE LOVE OF POMELO

As she turns thirty this year, Janice Anne Ong Jardiolin-Lo knows that nothing compares to the fun and financial rewards of having her own boutique. Customers are eager to snap up her latest selections and show them off to all their friends. Boutique / specialty store owners like her are insiders to fashion trends long before the general public. They have an opportunity to use their creativity every day, from creating window displays to putting together a knock-out ensemble for customers who value their expert advice.

At the end of the day, the lesson we can get from very young and successful entrepreneurs like her is not to allow anything to get in the way of fulfilling our plans and reaching our goals. No matter what life throws at us, we have to keep our eyes on the plan and persevere.

Go ahead, join the Pomelo lifestyle! Indeed, it is one fashion revolution!

THE SHOPPING BIBLE(s)

2011-04-04T10:26:00.001-07:00

Imagine if you will a character with the shoe-shopping fervor of Imelda Marcos, the trendy fashion sense of a British Carrie Bradshaw (Sex and the City) and the meager budget of, I don't know, say, Marge Simpson. Who am I describing? Rebecca Bloomwood, Sophie Kinsella's endearing main character in CONFESSIONS OF A SHOPAHOLIC. Yeah sure there’s the movie but sad to say it isn’t even a mile close to the books. Boo!

I can’t get my hands off Kinsella’s Shopaholic books. I can relate to the character and it is always prepared to give you giggles. This is the best chic literature I ever had my eyes on. These are my feel good-reads after a very stressful day.

WHO’S THAT GIRL?

Becky Bloomwood is the personification of the expression "living beyond one’s means." Becky craves the good stuff: Prada, Ravel, Dior and Chanel, but she lives off the wages of a low-on-the-totem-pole financial writer for Successful Savings, a low-on-the-totem-pole financial rag.

Hounded by debt and seemingly incapable of controlling her urge to purchase, Becky concocts excuse after excuse and scheme after scheme for not paying up. From glandular fever to broken legs, from flinding God to fending off imaginary stalkers, Becky pens hilarious explanatory missives to the only true stalkers in her life --- Visa and the bank.

So desperate is Becky at one point that she decides the lottery is the answer to all her problems. "I wouldn't aim to win the jackpot of course --- that's completely unlikely. But one of those minor prizes. There seem to be heaps of those going around. Say L100,000. That would do. I could pay off all my debts, buy a car, buy a flat ... Actually better make it L200,000. Or a quarter of a million. Or, even better, one of those shared Jackpots. 'The five winners will each receive L1.3Million.' ... One point three million should see me straight?"

When the lottery doesn't pan out (what were the odds?), she takes Dad's suggestion: frugality. Becky buys a book called CONTROLLING YOUR CASH, the answer to her prayers. She begins by cutting out expensive lunches (meaning an hour of shopping, followed by a quick overpriced cappuccino and biscotti). She packs a cheese sandwich and bottled juice, devours them in five minutes at her desk come lunchtime, and then desperate to find a way to fill the remaining 55 minutes of her break "a brilliant thought" occurs to her: she needs a cookbook in order to do some homecooking, doesn't she. So off to the shops she goes. Ahhhh, she sighs.

REDEMPTION BLAH BLAH

With every failed attempt to save, make money or marry the 15th most eligible bachelor in London, she consoles herself with another expensive but oh-so-fabulous trinket --- perpetuating her habit and her troubles. At each turn, Becky sinks deeper and deeper into debt and dishonesty. And just when she has sunk as low as she can, Kinsella resurrects and redeems her. Becky uncovers a headline-making financial story, makes a name for herself, and ... well, I don't want to spoil it for you. I'll just say there's a multimillionaire involved who could give Prince Charming a run for his money.

CONFESSIONS OF A SHOPAHOLIC is bound to make you a Sophie-holic. Every Ilonggo fashionista should invest in this one, and then accessorize with the others in the series: SHOPAHOLIC TAKES MANHATTAN, SHOPAHOLIC TIES THE KNOT, SHOPAHOLIC AND SISTER, SHOPAHOLIC and BABY, and the one I haven’t read yet, MINI-SHOPPAHOLIC. Giggles!

BANANE or BIRKIN?

2011-03-02T21:50:00.000-08:00

I know what you’re thinking. Nope, these aren’t actual Birkins from Hermes. But it is probably the next best thing to owning one, without costing an arm and a leg. It’s Taiwan’s pride, the Banane.

The Banane handbag is actually made of eco-friendly canvas and comes with the photo of the famous luxury bag on it. These are hand-made from Taiwan and would be very convenient and fashionable to have for the summer. According to the Banane site, the hand-made process is tedious and very detailed that the bags aren’t mass produced (they only produce 6 bags every hour).

INSTANT HIT!

The Banane Taipei started as a sassy take on the craze for designer bags, but over the past months, the canvas tote has garnered its own celebrity following, cult status and , yes, a waiting list.

Printed with an image of a satchel that resembles the Hermes Birkin bag, the Banane Taipei seems to parody status bags. Its creators insist, however, that it is meant as an “affectionate tribute” and not an imitation. The tote was created as the first product of Banana International, a fledgling lifestyle brand that plans to manufacture all its products in small Taiwanese factories.

The four sides of the bag, which was created as a reusable shopping tote, are printed with images of a leather satchel to create a trompe l’oeil effect. While the satchel resembles a Hermes Birkin, it is actually a photo composite of other bags and leather textures. The result is an image so realistic that you want to reach out and touch the gold buckle to make sure it isn’t three-dimensional.Yay!

The Banane Taipei joined a cluster of inexpensive cotton totes that pay tribute to (or parody, depending on who you ask) designer bags. Before the Banane Taipei was released, Japanese brand TATA Baby came out with a purse shaped like the Hermes Birkin, but sewn entirely from printed canvas. Spanish indie designer Nosideup has sold bags with black-and-white drawings of bags by various designers since 2009. Just a few months back, New York City brand Thursday Friday came out with a tote, the Together Bag, whose near-exact similarity to the Banane Taipei was noted by readers on several fashion sites, including the New York Times T Magazine blog.

BANANAS AND PATRIOTISM

The company decided to concentrate on creating environmentally friendly products while using their previous marketing experience to promote Taiwanese industries. The company’s name honors the fruit that was once one of Taiwan’s most important agricultural imports.

The current waiting time for a Banane Taipei is more or less a month, but says that the company is not purposely trying to make the bag hard to get. The Banane Taipei is produced at small factories in New Taipei City and Greater Taichung. Quality control inspectors are told to make sure all lines of stitching are unbroken and that there are no flecks or smudges in the printing. Banana International’s main goal is to ensure that customers develop a positive image of its domestically manufactured products so that they can compete with imports. For the sake of patriotism, the company really wants people to think highly of “Made in Taiwan” products, and that the customers are really getting something special.

If you think getting a Birkin can cost you your month’s, year’s, or even lifetime’s savings, stop whining and go get your Banane Taipei handbag. It’s the closest you’ll get to own the ones Sharon Cuneta or Gretchen Barreto are carrying! Give me some Banane!

MY BLUE QUILL

2011-02-25T05:00:00.000-08:00

THE TABOO OF CULTS

2011-02-25T04:46:00.000-08:00

SAY the word "cult" and certain dark, sinister images come to mind: secret rituals conducted in sacred lairs hidden in the mountains and forests, peculiar signs and objects resembling talismans that render the wearer invincible, people in cassocks forming a circle around a fire and mouthing incomprehensible chants.

Perhaps they may be different in reality, but the images conjured are the result of the popular influence of fictional books, movies, and sometimes even sensationalized news reports. However, despite, or even because of the negative connotation usually associated with cults, they have always fascinated people. These cults-diverse and intriguing to outsiders-are scattered all over the country, occasionally making their presence felt through outrageous acts.

Shocking facts and acts

For instance, 16 cultists died a few years ago in a clash of gunfire against lawmen, believing they were invulnerable against bullets. Alfredo Obsioma, leader of the Catholic God's Spirit cult, claimed that their magical powers did not work because many of them were sinners. The former army soldier declared that amulets made of paper scribbled with Latin prayers would be enough to make his followers invincible to bullets.

Another instance was the arrest of the Philippine Benevolent Missionaries Association leader Ruben Ecleo Jr. of Cebu that has ignited a new conflagration of controversy. The PBMA claims to have more than 10,000 followers, most of whom are also practicing Catholics. The difference is that they worship Ecleo, their "divine master" whom they believe to be the living incarnation of Jesus Christ. At the moment, Ecleo is being detained in Manila with charges of murdering his wife and use of illegal drugs. But this did not stop legions of his followers to flock to the prisons to pay homage to him.

Do cults pose as a threat, or are they harmless and their threat merely exaggerated?

A cult is a relatively small group compared to the rest of society, which has broken away from the normal ways of living. They have their own "religion," which may have similarities with the religion of the majority. However, they live in such a way that they would clearly see themselves as apart from the larger group.

Some cults are extremely violent, earning reputations for chilling murders like the notorious Tadtad (Chop-Chop) cult, a fanatical Christian group, so named for its practice of hacking its victims to death and having its members pose for photographs together with the severed heads of the victims. The vigilantes comprising the said group often carry magical amulets they believe could ward off bullets. Their rituals are sometimes even performed to the accompaniment of heavy metal music.

Nationalism to the extreme

While head-chopping, brain-eating cults grab the headlines and arouse public interest, it must not be thought that all cults are violent. The cults worshiping Marcos and Rizal may be deemed as a bunch of eccentric by outsiders, but they are very peaceful groups. As Rizalista societies mushroomed in the 20th century, Rizal came to be viewed as a Filipino Christ-the second Son of God and the reincarnation of Christ. A part of their doctrine was that Rizal would be resurrected and would liberate the Filipino nation.

Likewise, while Marcos was vilified by many as a ruthless dictator, to some, he is literally a saint. Hundreds of cult followers dressed in white flowing robes pay homage to Marcos in the mountains of Abra province. They meet in a chapel with the picture of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a symbol of God's mercy, in the altar. The alarming difference, however, is that the face is replaced with that of Ferdinand Marcos, a man reviled by many others for his ruthlessness and crimes against the country. Moreover, Philippine flags flank the altar during worship services. When the cult members pray, they raise their
right hand to their chest-as when singing the national anthem-in respect to the flag, instead of making the sign of the cross.

According to Philippine anthropologist Landa Jocano, the rise of cults worshipping Rizal and Marcos are rooted in the Filipino's struggle against Spain. As guerillas revolted against the Spaniards, some Filipino priests broke free from the church and created a group of their own, injecting it with nationalism.

Normal or eccentric?

Certain rituals and recruiting techniques used by cultists have earned them the label "dangerous." Some opponents call cults "evil" while others have stereotyped them as bizarre.

Not everyone agrees, though. There are those that argue that cults are only deemed as "bizarre" by outsiders who do not practice it. For the cult members, however, their ways feel only natural. There's nothing unusual with a religion having cults. Cults in general are normal. The very nature of religion centers around worship and ritual.

Certain rituals of the Catholic Church have received their own share of criticism. A closer look at the Catholic Church would reveal elements similar to cults. The Church, too, harbors secret rituals and utilizes signs and objects resembling talismans. And although they do not claim divinity for their leaders, they do claim to be the voices through which God speaks.

For outsiders who do not practice the Christian faith, they may also regard the rituals of the Catholic Church as unusual, like the celebration of the Eucharist where Christians take in the body and blood of Christ.

The problem is the way people use the word cults. There is already a negative derived meaning," To say that all cults are wrong would be stretching the term. However, not all cults are acceptable, particularly those that threaten the integrity of human beings.

Medical techonologist Patricia Bolivar believes that cults are not taboo. She says that everyone is entitled to find answers to their needs if they feel that their current religion fails to give them fulfillment. According to Patricia, if cults help meet the needs and desires of the person, then so be it.

Wake-up call

True enough, for many cultists, the cults are where they meet their social, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs. Cult followers are often the poor, the dislocated, and those who feel alienated from the Catholic Church. During political or economic crises, people sometimes lose their sense of security in the "normal" established religious tradition. Due to this, cults may arise in order to fill spiritual needs not met by the former.

Sadly, in order to rediscover their faith], some people resort to cults, which more often than not are dubious in character. Either they are led by mad men or con men.

The incredible number of people in cults indicates the inability of the Church to answer the needs of its people and to strengthen the faith of its followers without looking to cults for guidance and solace. The need for action on the part of the Church is indeed a call that it should heed.

SINGLEBLESSEDNESS

2011-02-25T04:39:00.000-08:00

I am actually looking for some of my previous articles that were published way back when. I am happy that strangers repost them in their blogs and review sites. Since I no longer have a copy of my past creations, I am now going to hunt for them and share them to the world. For all you know, you will find my thoughts "appealing".
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SINGLEBLESSEDNESS ( written&published: circa 2008)

WHAT'S wrong with being single? A whole lot if you go by what you see around you. Whether you visit a bookstore or a library, watch television, go to the movies, listen to friends and family, adopt the values of society, or read the newspaper, messages about couplehood prevail. Little is spoken about being single, except as a condition to avoid like the plague. In the dawn of a new millennium, it's time to say what being single is really all about.

Visit any bookstore and you'll find dozens of books about relationships; how to keep them together, how to grieve the loss of a loved one, how to find and keep the "perfect" mate, how to satisfy your lover sexually, and the list goes on and on. Rarely will you find books on being single unless they relate to healing some aspect of yourself in preparation for a relationship.

Or, to take time alone to discover why you're scaring people away. The majority of movies, soap operas, daytime talk shows and television dramas revolve around love relationships. Boy meets girl, boy beats up bad guys to save girl, boy marries girl and lives happily ever after are all stock images served up by Hollywood. Even action films try to sneak in sexual tension between the protagonists. Sexless soap operas do not exist. There's so much steam, it's pornographic. Every talk show has a weekly episode that examines relationships. Jerry Springer is renowned for sensationalizing combating couples while Oprah prefers to concentrate on deepening existing relationships.

Even newspapers, whose primary purpose is to inform citizens of world events include a personals section with want-ads of lonely singles desperately seeking a mate. Cities are littered with singles clubs and discotheques that aim to pair people up, even if it's just for a one-night stand. Society expects every man and woman to wed, preferably before the age of 30, and to have at least one child (two is perfect). Even though the term "old maid" is no longer politically correct, many still respond with surprise if an older woman remains unhitched. Single women are supposed to date regularly. If not, friends, family, and coworkers love to set singles up with blind dates (and we all know how satisfying those are). The message couldn't be clearer. It's not okay to be alone. Sometimes, singles are excluded from "couples" nights or activities or they're advised to "bring a friend."

Being in a loving relationship has its benefits, no doubt about it. Someone to talk to at any given moment, someone to rub your sore shoulders after a hard day's work, someone to do things with, someone to keep you warm at night, someone to buy you gifts at Christmas time and Valentine's Day, someone to make you feel special, and someone to whisper "sweet nothings" in your ear. And don't forget, someone to satisfy those pervasive sexual desires. Financially, couples are better off than individuals, and child-rearing is a lot easier with two parents. Also, being in a relationship helps us feel "normal." You don't have to worry about playing the dating game or trying to figure yourself out (maybe); you're okay because someone else says you are. Right?

Is there anything wrong with being in a relationship? Of course not, if both parties feel the same way towards one another and share the same commitment, values, and goals. A relationship can be terrific if both people are in touch with who they and their partners are and are okay with being alone. A dyad is great if both people share honestly with each other and are relatively healthy (for who of us is totally healthy 100% of the time?). Couplehood can be marvelous as long as there is mutual respect and some communication and conflict- management skills. Unfortunately, few relationships share all of these points leaving many people dissatisfied. What about being single? Typically, society views it as being out of our control. If we're single, it's because someone left us or doesn't want us. Seldom seen as a choice, loneliness is more often seen as boring, depressing, sad, negative, and something to remain in for only a short period of time or to be altogether avoided if possible.

Socially inept recluses isolated in dimly lit rooms devoid of furniture and warmth, lacking friends and family, hating their jobs and life in general are the usual way in which single people are portrayed. Or, single people (typically men) are seen as bar flies, squandering money, buying outlandish gifts for themselves (to make up for dwindling self-confidence), and engaging in meaningless acts of sex with strangers. Either way, singles lack a positive image.

However, being single can be a life-saving, rejuvenating experience. In fact, one can't truly be successful in a relationship without being single for a time. Being single allows us to do what we want, when we want, and with whom we want without having to answer to anyone. Being single allows us to take full responsibility for paying our bills, cleaning and decorating, cooking our meals, planning our activities, and entertaining ourselves. It allows us the time to sit in quiet solitude, to run naked around the living room, to belch as loud as we want, and secretly watch shows that no one else would actually ever admit to watching. This is because we have more time on our hands and are not avoiding looking at ourselves by focusing our energies on someone else.

Basically, being single affords each of us the opportunity to discover who we are, what we do and don't like, how we deal with things, what we want out of life, what our expectations are, what our potentials and limitations are, what energizes and empowers us, and what discourages and disappoints us. The goal of being alone should not be to prepare us for couplehood. Rather, the goal of being single should be to learn to fulfill ourselves, to meet our needs, and to develop as a human being regardless of whether or not we choose to enter into a relationship. By learning to love and care for ourselves, we diminish the risk of starving for someone else to fill the void within our souls; a void that only we can truly fill. The purpose of entering into a relationship should be to share oneself with another person as opposed to trying to get from someone what is lacking in ourselves. Expecting someone else to fill in the gaps usually results in grave disappointments , a sense of failure, and endless resentment.

Being in an unhealthy relationship is no more admirable than being alone and isolated. However, choosing to be single can be just as satisfying (if not more so) than thriving in a healthy relationship. With the advent of increased divorces, delayed marriages, fewer births, and growing female independence, more and more people will find themselves single. So, why not make the most of it? Sit back, have a soda, and try belching as loud as you can! You'll never know what you can accomplish until you try!

HURT MY HEELS NOT

2011-02-24T22:36:00.000-08:00

“WALKABLE HEELS”: Well, here's my theory: If heels are really cute, they are going to hurt after a while. If you have comfy heels, they're probably ugly. Every time I hear a woman say, "These shoes are so comfortable," I look down at her feet and what do I see? Fugly heels. Of course I'll just nod and say, "Good for you!"

One of my best friends and fellow shoe advocate, Diadem Vilches has this view, “If the shoes hurt, that means the shoes are super cheap. I love my feet, so I'd invest on expensive comfy pretty sexy heels.”

I would venture that the greatest disservice ever done to fashionable women everywhere is the sight of Carrie Bradshaw picking up her dry cleaning, buying flowers, and sipping lattes in sky high heels. Again, no. I know no women personally who wear shoes like that while toodling around the streets of her neighborhood, and the ones who don high, high heels do not dally — they drive their cars, or take cabs, hither and yon.

WHICH WORLD DO YOU PREFER?

In my own experience, there are shoes that have interesting details, and little touches of whimsy — and there are shoes that are comfortable. Every once in a while I find a pair born from the magical co-mingling of comfort and artful femininity, but usually I settle for sexy shoes that make me hobble (and how sexy is that?) or plain jane comfort.

Women have very different views when it comes to the age old battle of style against comfort. The opinions are different as the girls, ladies and women of today have different lifestyles, needs, and priorities. Fifteen year-old Ria Vilches shares, “I’m not risking any blisters on my feet so I'd rather wear those fugly, comfortable shoes.” Young professional Jackie Ariston says, “The higher the heels, the closer to God, but never compromise comfort for vanity except if the latter turns into a necessity”

On the other hand, young lawyer Atty. Merielle Silla quips, “ The higher the heels, the better. Blisters, what?” While law student and entrepreneur Danya Jacomille adds, “BASTA PAGWAPA, AGWANTA!!! I would wear sexy pretty heels that hurt than the latter (fugly comfortable shoes).”

On a more neutral note, UP Visayas Guidance Counselor Monique Espinosa has a different stake on such topic. She shares, “It depends. If a lady is young, she looks great in high heels, with a good posture effect. But, if the lady is 50 years, and up (mostly hypertensive) it is best to wear flat, comfy shoes for health reasons . So the question is - where do you belong?” Lawyer Atty. Gail Hernaez shares, “If the occasion is short and brief and heels match the dress, then sexy heels. If its a no nonsense day with no one to impress, then ugly comfy shoes will do.” One thing is for sure, our choice in footwear, really depends on what the day to day routine, fashion sense, and not to mention budget constraints (or the lack thereof) of us ladies.

HOW NOT TO HURT

Without a doubt, women are in a silent war between their feet and high heeled shoes. Rather than abandon our love affair with stilettos and strappy sandals, we endure pain and discomfort for the sake of beauty. However, finding a pair of high heels that don’t hurt your feet is not as complicated as you think. Apply these foot-loving tips to your next shoe shopping excursion, and free your feet from the bondage of ill-fitting high heels:

Find a shoe store that has a tool that measures foot size. Measure each foot separately to determine the right measurements for your shoes.

Know your feet. All feet are not created equal. Because all shoes do not fit all types of feet, determine if you have flat feet, high arches, narrow feet or wide feet. Study the high heels currently in your closet that are pain free.

Buy high heels in the afternoon only. Feet have the tendency to swell throughout the day. If you buy a pair of high heels in the morning, chances are they will not fit your feet properly at 3:00 p.m.

Wear leather soled shoes only. Man made soles are the enemy of your feet. Synthetic soles are not pliable. When you are walking in high heels you need shoes that mold to your feet, not fight against them.

High heeled stilettos are almost always accompanied by a pointy toe. This offender is known to cause pain and anguish to veteran high heel wearers. Go up a half a size when wearing pointy toed shoes to give your toes a little room to breathe.

Every Ilongga fashionista must always be fashion forward and fearless with her everyday look. High heels can make or break our entire get-up. So go ahead, love your feet and feel sexy!

FEDORA FANCY

2011-02-24T22:12:00.000-08:00

When a modern business man prepares himself for the day, his routine remains relatively unchanged from that of his father, or grandfather, or even further back. He must still select his suit, shirt, tie, etc., don them, and head out the door. However, looking back on men’s fashion trends over the last 100 years, there is one item that has become conspicuously extinct as an accessory; the hat, and more specifically, the fedora.

Fedora hats for men (and of course, women) are very sleek and look absolutely awesome when worn. If you are looking for a way to spruce up your look, fedora hats need to be added to your wardrobe. Simply add one of these hats to your outfit when you go out this weekend and you will instantly improve your style. These are the hats that look good when they are worn with a pair of jeans or with a fancy dress shirt. No matter what you decide to wear this hat with, you will look absolutely fantastic!

LOOKING BACK

Oddly enough, the fedora was originally a woman’s accessory at the beginning of the 20th century. It was not until around 1919 that it became popular in men’s fashion, eventually eclipsing such giants as the ‘homburg hat’ and the ‘bowler hat’ as the most popular men’s hat.

Traditionally they are made of felted wool with a wide round brim, and a crown that is creased down the middle and pinched at the frontal area on either side so as to form a ‘handle’ of sorts to grip the hat. There are several style options for the fedora: The raw-edged brim, finished with sewn-on over, underwelt, decorated with a grosgrain ribbon, or finished with a self-felted cavanagh edge. Further, the fedora also features a grosgrain ribbon that extends around the crown, just above the brim, complete with a bow on one side. Often, this ribbon is the same color as the hat, but a darker shade. This is not always the case, however, and the ribbon may be the same color as the body of the hat, or a completely different but complimentary color. In that sense, the fedora is much like a tie, in that there are seemingly endless variations on one theme; patterns, colors, textures, etc. However, unlike a tie, where a man might own tens or even hundreds of styles, a guy generally only has one or perhaps two fedoras.

HOW FITTING

The implications are plain; where shirts, jackets, and cufflinks are meant to be interchangeable, a man’s hat is a man’s hat, and probably says more about his distinctive personality than any other single accessory. It defines him, and everything else must follow. So, if you chose a brown hat for yourself, you have a brown hat, and all your other fashion choices must be considered to match and remain in step with your brown hat. In this sense, a fedora might be one of the few fashion accessories that dictate the suit, and not the other way around.

REVIVAL OF SORTS

The disappearance of the fedora as a serious fashion consideration did not happen all at once. Instead, like any other style trend, there were a variety of factors that came into play. The fedora was consistently stylish until around the late 1950’s, when its popularity began to wane, especially on the West coast with its more casual dress attitudes. Some theories point to the trend in the early 1960’s from wider to skinny ties and hat brims. By the early 1970’s, the fedora, and indeed men’s hats in general, was considered a dead fashion.

However, in recent times there has been a fedora revival of sorts. Many pop stars, as well as actors and other media personalities have donned the hat for its retro appeal, and when worn as an ironic fashion statement, the fedora’s image can definitely descent into kitsch. However, this should not stop you from trying a fedora on for size in your fashion world. When taken as a serious men’s (and women’s) accessory, the fedora can, and will, do what it was originally designed to do; be an extremely distinctive and stylish accessory that will distinguish you as a man who takes his appearance seriously.

So, yes, having confidence in your appearance, and a willingness to set trends, is always stylish and relevant. Have a fancy fedora weekend!