Win These Bags from CATHY! CLOSED

Three CATHY bags to WIN! From top to bottom: SIENNA Wood bead bag in Yellow, LAETITIA Tinalak and Sabutan Clutch in Red, LAETITIA Tinalak and Sabutan Clutch in Purple

CATHY and yours truly are giving away three bags to three winners, who will win one bag each! Fun stuff huh?!

Please use the Rafflecopter widget below to join. You can do so simply by:

- Liking CATHY on Facebook (MANDATORY)

To earn extra points:

- Tell us what you like about CATHY's Bags on your Facebook wall, and tagging CATHY on your post

- Leave a comment on this blog post, telling us which bag you'd like to win & why

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Contest is open to all with a Philippine address. I will close the contest on June 5, 2012 and will announce all three (3) winners on June 7, 2012. Prizes will be raffled off randomly. Good luck dear readers!

Get up to 50% Off on Germ Killer at Ensogo

Take advantage of this Germ Killer deal at Ensogo starting tomorrow until this Saturday. From May 29 to June 2, get up to 50% off on all Germ Killer products!

To shop, click HERE!

Summer at Catalogue63

Have you checked out Catalogue63 lately? Catalogue63.com’s in-house brand And Apparel recently launched its Summer 2012 Collection featuring dresses, tops and bottoms that are easy and ultra-flattering, and tropical weather appropriate - be it rain or shine.

All easy, breezy pieces that you can wear alone when the sun is at its peak, or worn under your favorite jacket or rain coat.

To see the complete collection, please visit www.catalogue63.com or like Catalogue 63 Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/catalogue63.

Too Sexy for My Shirt

Here's Mary Kate Olsen wearing a deep V-neck shirt from LnA with a maxi skirt, and she sure looks chic. But to spend $60 on a cotton shirt? Hmmm...

Thankfully, local label Sexy White Shirt has something for us ladies without billionaire budgets. They sent me this shirt in white, and also in black a few months back, and they do look adorbs, and dare I say, sexy?! Even with my bulging belly. Now, imagine how much better it will look on you!

Me at 31 Weeks, wearing a Sexy White Shirt, Current/Elliott cut-off shorts, Salt-Water sandals

I asked Melissa & Katrina, the ladies behind Sexy White Shirt to tell us more about their shirts and Melissa happily obliged:

MFO: Tell us how it all started!

Melissa: Sexy White Shirt is all about redefining the value of the basic white shirt by giving it greater versatility through a sexier and more modern feel.

A lot of fancy tops and tees are now present in the market, but when I wanted to buy a good basic shirt that would go with both my basic and fancier bottoms, I couldn't find any!!! So, I decided to design and make one instead.

However, since the minimum given to by the sewer was 50 pieces (which was too many for my personal use), I decided to keep 8 shirts for myself and hopefully discard the remaining 42 shirts by selling them at the Rockwell Bazaar last March 2010.

Even though I like fashion, I'm definitely not a designer by any means, so I had no idea whether I'd be able to sell the rest or not. I decided that I'd be happy if I sold half, and just give the remaining half as presents or giveaways to friends and family.

The three-day bazaar opened at 12 noon on a Friday, and I was so shocked when I realized I sold all 42 shirts by 6:43pm! I had to take pre-orders for the rest of Friday evening, Saturday, and Sunday.

Sexy White Shirt is definitely an unexpected blessing that I would always, always be thankful for.

What kind of shirts do you sell and what makes them unique?

We sell basic shirts made from top material and upgraded cuts.

We've brought the necklines and length a little more down south to give it an urban spin, and use 100% organic cotton to incorporate a luxurious feel on a basic wardrobe item.

We want our clients to be able to pair our shirts with anything from their wardrobe, whether it's their favorite pair of denim jeans, a bodycon skirt, or wide leg pants.

Grateful for the warm welcome we have received from the market over the past two years, we have also expanded our collection to other basic colors such a black, dark gray, and navy blue.

What's the price range of your merchandise?

All of our shirts are priced at Php 395 each.

In your opinion, what are the must-have pieces in your collection?

Our best-seller is still our pioneer product, which is the Plain White V Neck. For the darker colors, a lot of people still choose black, since they can pair it with more formal pieces and go for a more polished look.

We have also recently launched our first "seasonal" limited edition collection for Spring/Summer 2012.

The Sexy White Shirt, including their latest colors for Spring/Summer 2012, are available online via http://www.sexywhiteshirt.com/. For orders, please fill in this ORDER FORM.

Ladies, Meet CATHY

When you want to break free from the covetous claws that consume you when luxury designer bags come into the picture, remember there are a host of local labels to support instead. You may already be familiar with Aranaz, Celestina, and Bea Valdes, including the socio-eco chic that is Rags2Riches, and if so, here's another brand you might want to add to your repertoire: CATHY.

Cathy is an eponymous label named after its designer, Cathy de Leon-Pamandanan, who found her calling while still in college. Sensing that there weren't enough fun, reasonably priced bags for students like her, she took it upon herself to dream up the bags she wanted, and fortunately found a bag manufacturer who could bring her  designs to life.

Years later, after her initial steps into bag design, she continues to churn out the most adorable pieces that don't break the bank. Check out these bags from her latest collection.

JOSIE Wood Bead Ruffle Clutches P1,200 each

LEIGH Tinalak and Bamboo Patchwork Clutch P1,200 & ALEJANDRA Silk Ikat Clutch P1,600

MARINA Tinalak and Leather Tote P1,800 & REBECCA Tricolor Tote P1,600

DENISE iPad Case (Black/Neon Yellow) P800

Leopard print Ball Purse with Turquoise and Agate stones P3,800 & Multicolor Embellished Ball Purse with Agate stones and resin cabochons P5,500

As you may have noticed, Cathy's bags, clutches, purses and gadget cases incorporate hand-woven tinalak made by tribes in Mindanao, carefully inlaid shell components sourced from Cebu, and woven sabutan mats from Aurora. While everything is truly Filipino, the designs are contemporary and I can actually see Josie, Leigh, Alejandra and Marina in the pages of InStyle or Lucky Magazine. Made from traditional, rustic materials, yes. But very very "of the moment", very "now". 

CATHY is available online through http://cathysbags.com  as well as Preview Magazine’s virtual mall, www.themall.ph, at CABANA, a showroom/boutique in Legaspi Village, Makati, and at FIRMA in Greenbelt 3.

For inquiries or orders, you may also contact Cathy directly at:
Email - cathyhandbags@gmail.com
Mobile Number - 0917-835-8346  

Say it with Sunnies

A couple of weeks ago, Eileen Marquez of BLI invited me again into their showroom so I can take a look at their Spring/Summer 2012 Collection of sunglasses and lenses from luxury eyewear brands like Prada, Bulgari, Tiffany & Co. and Dolce & Gabbana. 

Last time, the Prada Baroque sunnies caught my eye, and this season, I am loving the whimsical frames from Dolce & Gabbana! Although actually, there's a great mix of sunnies to suit every personality this season.

Here's a taste of what to you'll see at Adora in Greenbelt and LS Pascual Optical in Rockwell & Shangri-la Mall when you drop by these days:

European playboy sunnies from Dolce & Gabbana, which I would actually wear! I love the oversized aviator frames!

Fun printed frames, also from Dolce & Gabbana. Frames pa lang, summer na summer na! But the shape is a classic that can withstand seasons.

How cute are the stars on the arms of this one? 

Polka dots or leopard print frames? Take your pick!

The metal plaque logos on the sides are pretty discreet, you can really just let the printed frames work their attention-grabbing magic. 

Meanwhile, Burberry is all about understated elegance with these two frames above. Now that I think about it, I want the light colored frames above. So chic.

Meanwhile, Bulgari is totally blinged-out! This season again, it will continue to please Lola Glamorosa. 

This one is more subdued. I am getting some sort of Western vibe on this one.

The collection of lenses for Spring/Summer 2012 are quite interesting too, and have loads of character. Take for instance the three oddly shaped frames on the upper left, very librarian cool. Or the studiously classic tortoise shell frames right at the middle. The white frames are something I wouldn't dare wear, but would actually look perfect on some creative type. The clear frames on the right side (third from upper right), tell me, who can get away with those? 

Again, Dolce & Gabbana has great eyeglass frames this season. I really really like these two below. There's a geeky, thoughtful Albert Maysles feel to these: 

And did you know there are eyeglass versions of the souped-up Bulgari frames as well?

Check this out! Slip off the sunnies, and put on these babies! They make a great matchy-matchy, signature look! If you are into fancy frames that is.

Btw, for those who missed out on Prada Baroques last season, expect for these to make a comeback soon, but this time around, they come in square-ish frames! Excited yet? I personally want to see those in person too!

Floral Fever at SM Fashion Forum

Floral Dresses from London Times, available now at SM Fashion Forum

Get these pretty floral dresses at SM Fashion Forum for you, or better yet for Mom (and then just borrow if you are lucky enough to be the same size!) for Mother's Day!

But why not get something special for you both? Or get a full outfit with the perfect pair of heels, because, when you spend Php10,000 in a single receipt, you get 20% OFF on your purchase! 

This Mother's Day offer starts today, May 10 and ends on May 14, 2012 at all Fashion Forum boutiques at SM Department stores!

Lots of fresh, new arrivals from Maggy London, Adrianna Papell, London Times, Arturo Chiang and Donna Morgan to shop from too! For sure you'll find something perfect for Mom, promise! ;)

Deals and Thrills for Citibank Cardholders!

Citibank is slashing off 15% on your office wardrobe at Dorothy Perkins and Warehouse, as a special offer to all working women for the whole month of May. 

To enjoy this exclusive treat, just use any Citibank Credit Card and present a valid company ID when shopping at Dorothy Perkins and Warehouse in Robinsons Galleria and SM Mall of Asia. Avail of the markdown also at Warehouse outlets in Shangri-La Plaza and Greenbelt 5. 

Citibank cardmembers can also get the price cut at Dorothy Perkins branches in Robinsons Place Manila, Power Plant Mall, Glorietta 3, TriNoma, Eastwood Mall, The Podium and Abreeza Mall in Davao. 

During the promotion from May 1 to 31, 2012, shoppers get 10% off when they present a valid company ID at these stores. But why settle for 10% when you can get a 15% preferential discount when paying with a Citibank Credit Card?

Meanwhile, NEW Citibank Mercury Drug cardholders get a summer spa treat for 2 at Nurture Spa in Tagaytay.

When you apply and get subsequently approved for a Mercury Drug Citibank Card, simply have a minimum spend of P2,000, in single or accumulated transaction slips, using your Mercury Drug Citibank and enjoy a Nurture Spa package for 2 worth Php5,000 as a welcome gift. 

The Nature Spa Package for 2 includes a four (4) hour stay at the Garden View Room, a one (1) hour spa treatment (choice of Full Body Massage, Natural Facial or Hele Foot Spa) per person, and one (1) Amu’ln reward product. 

The Mercury Drug Citibank Card lets cardholders enjoy the best rebates on purchases at any Mercury Drug store, at accredited health institutions, and even on everyday purchases. It also offers exclusive discounts and privileges at partner hospitals, medical clinics and wellness centers such as Healthway, The Medical City, Makati Medical Center, Clarity, Fitness First, Asian Eye Institute, Aqualogic Swim Co, and Gymboree. 

To apply, simply visit www.citibank.com.ph/mercury. or call 423-3000. New applicants must completely fill-out a Mercury Drug Citibank Card application form and submit all the required documents. Promotion is offered until May 31, 2012. Complete terms and conditions available in website. 

Per DTI-NCR Permit No. 2600, Series of 2012.  

Enjoy many rewarding experiences such as these with Citibank. For more information, call the 24-Hour CitiPhone at 995-9999 or visit www.citibank.com.ph.

Germ Killer Giveaway! CLOSED

Germ KiIller and yours truly are giving away this entire set of Germ Killer products and Arix home cleaning implements you see above.

Please use the Rafflecopter widget below to join. You can do so simply by:

- Liking Germ Killer Philippines on Facebook
- Posting a cleaning tip on your Facebook wall, and tagging Germ Killer Philippines on your post

You may earn more entries by
- Following Germ Killer PH on Twitter, @GermKillerPH
- Following me on Twitter, @cd_mfo
- Tweeting about the contest and tweeting just once everyday.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Contest is open to all with a Philippine address. I will close the contest on May 18, 2012 and will announce the winner on May 21, 2012.

Good luck to everyone! And to the winner, you'll have a grand time cleaning your entire home once you get this package! Hee!

UPDATE: Congratulations Keene Slither! Please expect an email from me so we can coordinate shipment of your prize!

Heima New Collection + Design Discussions this Saturday!

All Happening this Saturday! Join in on the fun!

Oh Hi, Summertime! ( Of Outdoor Stories, Secret Stars & A Paper Universe )

A collection of summer hues and outdoor stories, Heima will unveil its 5th collection with a series of events that showcases rising stars and new discoveries. Familiar feelings along with new adventures, the series of events will take you on a summer adventure of our design and inspiration. Heima dwells on analog and paper, new tones and nature patterns for summer. Carefree themes of friendships and union, touched by vintage textures and fresh sounds. Soft and smooth scents, gentle strokes, sailing through slow afternoons on fields of amber, tangerine tones and lush greens, on ombre skies and a sea of teal sprinkled with sun and droplets of neon colors. Handmade with love on a canvas of dreams, Heima brings you a collection of renewed inspiration and flare. 

Collection 5 Furniture 

This exciting collection provides us glimpses of summertime, with outdoor-inspired furniture and actual furniture that can be used outdoors. Again, we try to step a little out of our comfort zones while blending what we do best--an eclectic mix of color, patterns, and forms. The theme may seem like a challenge, but the design team has translated this overall theme and concept into real life practical designs. Among the key items of this collection is a love seat and an arm chair with curves inspired by a couple's embrace and union, wrapped in Ikat or floral patterns to celebrate summer and nature. More curves are explored in a form of a chair lightly inspired by waves, contoured to blend with the user, just a touch of cushion and consistent turning for legs across the several pieces. A few more complimenting pieces are also showcased, like an Ottoman bench with a new twist of color and floral patterns. These pieces can also be ordered in custom fabric choices and size adjustments. 

Collaborations and Exhibits 

Hello Sailor by illustrators Soleil Ignacio and Tokwa Salazar Penaflorida ( at Heima Cubao X ) Southern Stories by film photographers Aleyn Comprendio and Charles Buenconsejo ( at Heima LRI Makati ) Both exhibit seems to be influenced by similar themes of outdoor memories, summertime escapes and dreamlike adventure. We view them as secret stars, gems yet to be discovered by the mainstream. 

An additional Collaboration with Pper Heads, a paper installation art group allowed us to make our showroom a dreamlike feel of nature that compliments the outdoor theme, Also to be unveiled is a wall paper wall using a collaborative design by Tokwa Penaflorida and Soleil Ignacio, printed on wallpaper by Brushstrokes Creatives. 

Wall Art and Prints

New themes for the season, of celebrations and fresh positive outlooks. Fresh in-house designs with watercolor splashes, gradients and paper cutout as inspirations. Mixture of pastel to bright colors allow Heima to pick up from past designs yet continuing to release a seemingly fresh line. A collaboration with a former employee, Andrea Cervantes ( Berunagirl.net ) using her talent in doing actual paper cutout art has been channeled to vector based graphics for various applications. 

Decor and Accessories

New line of cushions, custom printed fabrics, words, typography and bold patterns are in the works. New design for bone china lamps and decors will also be unveiled. 

Paper Club

The launch of new stock and colors of MT Tapes (washi tapes) that are currently booming in the craft scene. New sets of Design Books and Issues of Frankie and Anthology Magazine, and also new designs of badges/ pins, Oh Hi tote bags, refreshed tags and branding. 

Apartment Life

The launch of Lomokino Cameras, Lucky Film (the one used for making the Southern Stories video), instax Wide Cameras and films, new Vinyl players and vinyl titles from Laneway bands are also available. The Tarsius vinyl LP which is going to be distributed by Heima will be available for order ans reservation soon.

Design Discussions (FREE but please register by email to joana@heimastore.com)

Four artists and additionally Pper Heads will participate in the third design talk called Design Discussions. The outdoor and surf oriented group that is also design centric - Coast Thru Life are also invited to speak on the said event. The group includes several architects, interior designers and Jericho Rosales as core members. The Heima Design Discussions 3 will be also on May 5 at 2 PM to 6 PM. Registration starts at 1 PM.

27 Weeks: Back to Grunge

My mom and Dada don't particularly like it when I wear these tattered jeans, but they are just so comfy! My mom says this is something to wear to the market, or Divisoria daw. AKA as the haggling outfit, haha!

But I still often wear it out to run errands. This is the easiest outfit to throw on ever, plus this is one of two pairs of jeans I have, that still fit me. Wore this to lunch with Karrots at Basil:

grey shirt from Daley, Super Loved Destroyed boyfriend jeans from Current/Elliott, black Converse x Play Comme des Garçons sneakers

This is how I look like from the side:

I think Xavi is going to be much bigger than Berry. I was on 30+ weeks with Berry na when my belly was this size. Then again, as they say, first babies are smaller and succeeding babies are bigger. Plus with Xavi, I have a teenage boy's appetite and I am hungry every hour. Yes, up to now.

26 Weeks: Prints Please

Suddenly, I seem to have somehow started accumulating printed dresses. From graphic to ethnic, my wardrobe of mostly solids, checks and plaids has been infiltrated with loud prints. I only started with at most two printed dresses, and now I have like, five. Ehehe! Of course, I am still staying true to my vow of keeping a capsule wardrobe.

Here's what I wore at 26 weeks:

Marni x H&M dress with Marni platforms and accessories from J.Crew, Fenton/Fallon and Alexis Bittar, when Rissa & I attended the MEGA event with the theme "Global chic"...

Ran errands in this t-shirt jersey dress from Twenty8Twelve (this was my breastfeeding dress for Berry because it has snaps on the shoulder, so easy to remove hehe), Repetto BB flats and accessories from J.Crew and Fenton/Fallon