Monday, January 28, 2008

How Cool Is This



If you're getting the MacBook Air, you might as well get a new laptop sleeve, or rather, an AirMail MacBook Air sleeve configured to fit snugly around your new super thin laptop. It's now available for pre-order at $29.99 at manilamac.com.

The creators of AirMail, Jona Bechtolt and Claire L. Evans "excitedly came up with the AirMail idea minutes after watching Steve Jobs' keynote at Macworld". Talk about striking while the iron is HOT!!!

Oh hey, when you get it, just make sure it's labeled properly. You don't want your new notebook picked up by your messenger and sent out by mistake!

Heehee!

Sunday, January 27, 2008

Murphy's Law

This is the first thing that greets me the next day after my meltdown!!! Imagine that!!!



But I'm looking at a glass half full! I'm still happy I got this invite! So thanks for sending me this Celine!!! I'm taking this as a sign that I have fabulous things to look forward to!!!

So for those who want to shop for a cause, I'm spreading this blessing to you all!!! ;)

P.S.
Thank you so much to all my friends and online buddies for your wise advice and encouraging words of support. I appreciate that you let me know that I am not alone. With friends like you, it's so easy to disprove Murphy's Law - I haven't even reached rock bottom but I've been swiftly whisked back up. I just know there's no way to go but Happyville! I really feel blessed to have you as a "support group". I get this inkling that soon enough we'll be thinking happy thoughts again!

Cheesy as it sounds, I LOVE YOU ALL!!!

Saturday, January 26, 2008

Meltdown Moment

Can I just do a Britney and get a little bit loopy?

See, today marks the day that I vow not to buy anything related to fashion, be it clothes, shoes, bags, accessories, even books. That is, until I have a "real" job. I mean, I sort of do, I'm a blogger gosh darn it! But well, with major life plans for the next couple years (I'll tell you all about it soon enough!), my source of delight, my pick-me-upper will just have to take a backseat. Funds have to go straight to the bank beginning today. DH made it clear to me and I have to agree it really is the smart & sensible way to make sure that we could afford our goals without seeking parental support.

Honestly, I don't know how I'm going to do this. Is there a shopping rehab clinic out there? But jeez, that'll cost us if there was right? I feel like a bucket of cold water was poured over me, and all flighty thoughts have flown away. I hope this won't make me shriveled up and cranky, because shopping is the flame that lights up my being when I'm feeling dark and gloomy! I never turned to alcohol and drugs or slashed my wrists at my lowest points because family, friends and shopping were there for me!

Is this normal? To feel depressed when told that shopping is a no-no? I feel like crying honestly, and well I'm just pouring it all out to you since were all friends here right? I mean, it's not always gonna be good stuff, through thick and thin as they say. Am I boring you? I hope not, I need your moral support...although financial would be helpful, hehehe!

I beckon the Universe to make all our plans possible. With shopping allowance please (whether it be through income generating work or winning the lottery, or hey even both! That's not too much to ask)!!!

On a lighter note, a reader said the last outfit I shared with you was drab. Well, I have to admit, I am a shy person, so I don't have a thing for colors that draw unwanted attention. I like things understated, but of good quality. And I don't mind cheap, if were talking trendy. But I like it when people shake me out, because it gets me looking at things from a different perspective. So here's an attempt at adding color to my wardrobe...




What do you all think? Bring it on! =)

Thursday, January 24, 2008

Shrunken Blazers

Yup! No need to go the little boys section of Brooks Brothers!

Because the retail folks at Gap and UNIQLO listened and came out with shrunken blazers that will look so great with everything!

Gap $69.50



I must say, Gap's "Blue Redefined" campaign made me a believer once more! They had so many things that I want in my closet! The shrunken blazers of course, plus boyfriend cardigans in navy and grey, a couple shirt dresses, and a thin bright yellow belt that will put some needed color in my closet!

UNIQLO $99.50


It was great to re-discover UNIQLO. I first discovered it in Shanghai back in 2004. I knew there was a flagship store in New York City but didn't see it until DH and I were walking around downtown and stumbled upon it. So I'm pleased to know there's one in SOHO, on Broadway, when I feel like stocking up on affordable basics! Their cashmere sweaters and shawls are currently on sale, only $59.99, sooo tempting!

For those not familiar with UNIQLO, it's a Japanese label known for quality and value. Founded in 1984 in Hiroshima, Japan (the same place bombed by American planes in World War II), it has grown to over 760 stores worldwide and is household name in Japan. Think of it as the Japanese version of The Gap!

Monday, January 21, 2008

Kate Bosworth for US Vogue February 2008

I'm not surprised she made it to the cover of Vogue. The girl's got style, the effortless kind that does not rely on "look at me dresses" and "statement accessories"...



She had the makings of an icon early on. She made me and a million other girls want to be a surfer chick after watching her in Blue Crush. I'm pretty sure she was the envy of many when she hooked up with Orlando Bloom. Now she's not just a fashionista but a fashion muse. Not to mention, an in-demand actress with a line-up of new movies set to come out one after the other.

The girl who gave up a Princeton education to pursue acting full time is going places that's for sure. But in fashion, it looks like she's here to stay.

Sunday, January 20, 2008

NY Fashion Week: February 1 to 8, 2008

Ooohhh! It's gonna be busy busy busy again here in NYC, the Bryant Park Tents especially! Two weeks to go till Fashion Week for F/W 2008!!!

Here's the line-up from the MBFashionWeek website:

The Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week schedule begins with Nautica and is followed by The Heart Truth's Red Dress Collection 2008, Perry Ellis, Yigal Azrouël, Duckie Brown, Rubin Singer, BCBGMAXAZRIA, Yeohlee, Nicole Miller, Erin Fetherston, Project Runway Designer, Venexiana, Lacoste, Academy of Art University, Abaeté, Araks, Mara Hoffman, Alexandre Herchcovitch, Juan Carlos Obando, Z Zegna, Verrier, Sass & Bide, Rock & Republic, Akiko Ogawa., Lela Rose, Hervé Léger by Max Azria, DKNY, Twinkle by Wenlan, Tracy Reese, Diane Von Furstenberg, Y-3, Angel Sanchez, Tuleh, Miss Sixty, Terexov, Peter Som, Carolina Herrera, R. Scott French, Jill Stuart, Betsey Johnson, Luca Luca, Pamella Roland, MAX AZRIA, Ports 1961, Iodice, Tibi, Badgley Mischka, Monique Lhuillier, Cynthia Steffe, Dennis Basso, Diesel, Joanna Mastroianni, Vivienne Tam, Rosa Chá, Malan Breton, Nanette Lepore, Michael Kors, Milly by Michelle Smith, Carlos Miele, Anna Sui, Richard Chai, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Temperley London, Tony Cohen, Vera Wang, Naeem Khan, Rebecca Taylor, Bill Blass, Reem Acra, Calvin Klein, Chris Han, Tommy Hilfiger, Custo Barcelona, Zac Posen, Jayson Brunsdon, Project Runway, Ralph Lauren, Tadashi Shoji, Carmen Marc Valvo, Willow, Donna Karan Collection, Anne Bowen, Zang Toi and Sean John.

Note that the finalists from Project Runway will be presenting on the 8th! Maybe I can sneak a peek into the tents and spoil it all for you? Heehee! Just kidding!

In case, you're in NYC and can wangle an invite from the organizers or the designers' PR folks, here's the schedule from the MB FashionWeek website for your enjoyment (click on image to enlarge):

Saturday, January 19, 2008

Candy Colored Ferragamo Flats

While walking along 5th Avenue, I passed by the Ferragamo store and felt like a kid looking through the shop window of a candy store!



This style is called the Varina ballet flat (I suppose the younger, hotter version of our moms' Vara pumps), and I'm feeling a vibe these are going to be so hot for S/S 2008!



Friday, January 18, 2008

Sharing My Outfit Day

I definitely am sold on my new boots now. I originally wanted a black pair but in hindsight, I'm extremely glad that I ended up with brown ones instead. As knittymommy said, the color makes it stand out more, and that is just so true! I mean, check out my outfit and imagine if the boots were black...



It would have just been regular and boring right? But with brown boots, it just has more character. To add a pinch of pizazz to my outfit, I wore a colorful scarf...not bad me thinks!



Scarf: Missoni
Long sleeved tee (underneath tunic): Old Navy
Tunic dress: Target
Cardigan: Zara
Belt: Burberry
Tights (underneath leggings): Target
Leggings: Old Navy
Boots: Lanvin

Thursday, January 17, 2008

That LV Patina Issue

Here's a very interesting question from a reader who asked for tips on how to care for those tricky, if not high maintenance LV monogram canvas bags...



Hi-My question is out of topic. Can you provide me tips on how should I care for my LV with monogram canvas, so it would last longer and the patina can have an even color if it darkens? Thanks!

Happy to know you found the right pair of boots. :)


I'm happy I finally found my boots too! And, thanks for your question! I'm sure that this a common concern among LV monogram canvas bag owners, especially those who are anal about keeping their bags in pristine condition. Now I actually don't have an LV monogram canvas bag because I can't trust myself to take care of it! Go Damier! Hehehe! But I am more than happy to help out!

First of all, I would suggest that you CLICK HERE. I have just linked you to a very informative website on how to obtain an even colored patina. The tips found in that website is absolutely spectacular as they've got it practically down to a science. As much as I'd want to share it with you here, I think I'd be better off just directing you to the site as it has a very threatening copyright notice...

Nothing short of telling you to wear gloves when using your bag, some recommend it best that you just carry it on your wrist (or shoulder if it's a Noe, Batignolle, Neverfull or a Papillon...), rather than wrapping your palms around the handles, especially for those with a tendency to have sweaty palms.

Now once you've achieved that even patina, I suggest that you use Ingrid G./The BagHag's highly recommended leather care product of choice in caring for your LV bag...



You may order it online or you may buy it in Manila at Tresorie, which is located at the 2nd Floor, Doña Consolacion Bldg, 122 Jupiter Street Makati City. Tel. (632) 890-0037.

Now remember, avoid using your bag even at the slightest hint of rain. And when you're not using your bag, store it properly in its dustbag and keep it away from dusty or damp spots.

If you follow all these suggestions, I think you'll end up with a gorgeous patina that will be a testament to the extreme care you've given your bags!

P.S.
If any of you dear readers have tried and tested tips in caring for your LV monogram canvas bags and have been successful in achieving that even patina, your suggestions are most welcome! =)

(Photo credits: eluxury.com, leatherstuff.com)

Wednesday, January 16, 2008

The Search Is Over!

Yes! The search is over! I finally found my winter boots!

Flat? Check!
Comfortable? Check!
Black? No!

But I'm very happy with these...




brown ones...




Prayers and faith saved the day for me! The Secret works!!!

It wasn't the exact pair I was looking for, as these have more of a square toe (the good kind, like that of ballet toe shoes/Repetto Bardos and yeah, Lanvin square toe ballet flats). But well, you know how you think your crush is the most perfect thing in the world. and then you get to talk and you realize he isn't all that you thought he would be? Well, that's how I felt with the round toe ones when I finally got to try on a pair (in patent though, blech!).

Tell you all about it later!!! Woohoo!!!

Monday, January 14, 2008

S/S Trends 2008 Part I: The Gladiator Sandal


If there's a particular piece I'm really gung-ho about for S/S 2008, it's the gladiator sandal! Although it has been around for ages (and I mean ages!) it again only came into our realm of consciousness back in 2005, with Kate Moss of course blazing the way...



...and Alexander McQueen coming out with sandals fit for a Warrior Queen!


For S/S 2008, gladiators have gone beyond the blacks and browns and have become way more colorful! As if celebrating a victory over neutrals! Check out these Balenciaga beauties...




Now if only we have great gams to pull it off...hahaha!

But for those who want to go the Greek classics route and get authentic sandals that would make any Greek warrior proud, order these surprisingly affordable sandals from the sandalmaker/poet Stavros Melissinos' son, Pantelis. If you have it shipped to the US, it will cost you only about $40!



There are tons more of gladiator sandals out there that would suit the fashion warrior in you. Seek out the one that calls your name and gear up, it pays to be prepared for battle!

(Photos courtesy of whowhatweardaily.com, theceleblife.com, style.com, melissinos-art.com)

Friday, January 11, 2008

Isabel Marant Avela Boots in Black On Sale!!!

Here's a public service message to those with size 37 feet!!! These "to-die-for" (well ok not really, but you get my drift) Isabel Marant Avela boots in black are now down to $455 from $650 at Impulse Seattle!




Hurry up and get your ass to their store. Otherwise, call them if you're nowhere near and make arrangements to have these gorgeous boots sent to you ASAP! These are going to be closet staples guaranteed and are worth every bit of your hard-earned $$$!

(Crossing my fingers that good karma will come to me for sharing -- may the perfect black boots in my size come to me!!!)

Wednesday, January 09, 2008

Anthropologie Home

One of my favorite places to window shop at is Anthropologie. I can spend a whole afternoon there just browsing through the pieces on display. And I am not even talking about clothes here!

Their home ware section is absolutely delightful! From quaint ceramic knobs to pretty aprons, from antique inspired glasses to quirky salt and pepper shakers and measuring spoons, they have it all! I keep forgetting this is the best place to shop for housewarming gifts because the pieces here really are special.



I find it hard to walk away without buying anything from Anthropologie, but I do. Because no matter how cute the items are, really, how many plates and glasses does one really need in the cupboard? I still keep on coming back to tease myself though, because I get a weird sort of high just imagining how my kitchen and dining room would be like if I had such pretty house things! These are the sort of pieces that put a smile to your face as you sip your tea or nibble on a cookie because inanimate as they are, it just spouts personality!

Maybe I'll give in one of these days, who knows! But for now, I'll just practice self-control. Sigh!

Saturday, January 05, 2008

Chloë Sevigny for Opening Ceremony

Dear Hubby and I spend our weekends walking around NYC. This weekend, as we were on Howard Street on our way to Broadway Avenue, we walked past by Opening Ceremony, the hip LA/NYC boutique...



...which happens to carry an exclusive 40 piece collection designed by actress/fashion icon Chloë Sevigny. Check out a couple of her pieces below scanned from the pages of the February 2008 issue of Teen Vogue...



But because I am on saving mode these days, and have vowed to limit my spending this year (if only for a few key pieces), I try to avoid going inside shops. First to resist temptation, second to stay away from shop sales! I know it's so hard to walk away from a super good deal, but then I realized, a couple of pieces on sale, even at 80% off adds up to a whole lot, I should have just saved for one really timeless accessory or article of clothing! So sorry dearies, I have not seen the collection for myself! It did not even cross my mind to go into the store. But if your style hovers around the preppy and/or skater chick genre, then it's worth a peek, because just might find something that will pique your interest! ;)

Friday, January 04, 2008

Body Forms by Alessa



If getting organized is topping your list of resolutions for 2008, then I suggest that you start with your accessories. Why accessories? Well because these body forms as accessory holders by Alessa de Rivera are just too cute to resist!

Made out of metal and paper mache, not only are they works of art, they serve a practical purpose too! According to Alessa, "I've always wanted to have something that could hold my accessories...There's a lot of jewelry designers coming in and out right? It's like everyday there's a new bling being introduced, but we can't find anything in the market that serves to hold those blings. So i figured why not make one?"

She explains that she got into body forms since their family business makes these for export. What makes her body forms different from their export pieces is that, "I guess most of our body form items are for visuals and not much for function". With that in mind, she married the two, and the result was not only visually appealing, but highly functional too!


"Alexise"
Item code: 7TB-FBE
Description: 12"H TABLE TOP FULL BODY FORM, BLACK SILVER
Material: METAL & PAPER MACHE
Price: P195.00


"Mabelle"
Item code: 7TB-FAL
Description: 19"H TABLE TOP FULL BODY FORM, WHITE BLUE
Material: METAL & PAPER MACHE
Price: P275.00


"Suzette"
Item code: 7TB-FWM
Description: 21"H TABLE TOP FULL BODY FORM, WHITE W/ DRESS
Material: METAL & PAPER MACHE
Price: P350.00


"Vanessa"
Item code: 7TB-FBQ
Description: 28"H TABLE TOP FULL BODY FORM, BLACK
Material: METAL & PAPER MACHE
Price: P475.00


"Margaux"
Item code: 7TB-RPM
Description: 22"H TABLE TOP BODY FORM, ROSE PINK W/ SCREEN
Material: METAL & PAPER MACHE
Price: P575.00


"Angela"
Item code: 7TB-SGM
Description: 22"H TABLE TOP BODY FORM, SWIRL GOLD
Material: METAL & PAPER MACHE
Price: P550.00


"Althea"
Item code: 7TB-SBM
Description: 22"H TABLE TOP BODY FORM, SWIRL BLACK W/ SCREEN
Material: METAL & PAPER MACHE
Price: P600.00

Alessa explains further, "My Cinderella Series (Margaux, Angela, and Althea) can hold a lot of earrings, bracelets and necklaces. The skirt itself can hold a lot of your stud earrings and dangling ones. The edge of the skirt has loops where in you can hang those earrings. My tallest piece is Vanessa while the smallest (and the most ideal for a small dresser) is Alexise.

For more photos of her designs, check out her multiply site. To buy or order for yourself or your friends, visit their factory store (238 Sta. Monica St. Bo. Kapitolyo, Pasig) or contact Alessa at 0917-5256729, alessa@alriver.com.ph

P.S. She accepts orders and revisions, depending on the volume!
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