Friday, June 29, 2012

Panopio x Zalora Blog Raffle!


I have this delicate "C' pendant necklace from Panopio for Zalora that has become my everyday accessory. Unobtrusive as it looks, it still never fails to catch attention, and I just love how it is so simple and so elegant. 

This is the handiwork of Vicky and Bea Panopio, New York schooled sisters and the design-duo behind PANOPIO. They work with precious metals, diamonds, and colored stones to create exquisite pieces such as these:


They work out of their shop in The Manila Peninsula, and recently came out with an exclusive line with Zalora – Panopio for Zalora. My necklace, the Edwardian Script Initial Pendant, is the first of this line.


I am often asked if it is made from real gold. Actually, this is silver dipped in gold, and is really quite affordable at Php1,880 for the chain and pendant together. Panopio for Zalora pieces also come with a lifetime warranty on the color and shine (provided they are reasonably cared for by the owner of course), so no worries there if you are afraid that it will eventually tarnish. I often end up sleeping with my necklace on, and showering the next day with it, and so far, it hasn't lost its luster. It's really well made.

A Block Letter font will be released soon, as well as scripts with diamonds. And I can imagine these will all be as equally pretty as their debut product. 

Of course, I have got to share this great find with you. Panopio for Zalora is giving away 1 customized Edwardian Script Necklace to one lucky reader (meaning, choose your own initial hee!). Here's how:

1. The contest is open to all readers of MANILA FASHION OBSERVER with a local/Philippine address.
2. Contest period is from June 29 to July 13. Winner will be chosen via random pick and announced on July 15, 2012.
3. Join via Rafflecopter:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

NOTE: Participants MUST be a registered member of ZALORA. To register:

Step 1: Log on to www.ZALORA.com.ph

Step 2: On the upper right hand corner of the Home Page, Click on “Account” then Select “New Customer”.

Step 3: Fill in your Account information.


Step 4: Press Submit!

Bonus Step: Don’t forget you can get a free P250 Voucher when you sign up for the newsletter.


Want to shop for Panopio Jewelry now? Click HERE!


E. Murio SALE Starts TODAY: June 29-30, 2012


JUNE 29, Friday, 1-6 PM
JUNE 30, Saturday, 9-6 PM
Urdaneta Park, 26 Urdaneta Avenue, Urdaneta Village, Makati

Dear readers, come drop by and hope to see you there too!

Thursday, June 28, 2012

Greetings Earthlings


Speaking of Mothering Earthlings, over the weekend, I met Rone Valles Guerrero of Mothering Earthlings, which reminded me! OMG! I promised her back in November that I'd write about her online clothing store that specializes in children's clothes (she has pieces for babies and mamas too!). It's a site that just has to be shared because it's filled with pieces that's perfect for when you want to buy unique gifts for the little ones in your life.

A mom of two boys, Rone started Mothering Earthlings to encourage self-expression. You can find quirky children's clothing and ever reliable cloth diapers and accessories brands like Agoo, BumbleBear, Fin + MeGoogoo & GagaGreen Sproutlets, In The Crib, Proud Mama, Ines Moda Infantil, Spinkie, Next9, and Jelly Nelly in her shop. 

Every item in her shop has a lot of character. Cute, spunky and full of personality, like these:

Sunflower Power dress from googoo&gaga, Php750 

Butterfly pillow in Sea Camouflage from Spinkie, Php1,175

Erika dress from Ines Moda Infantil, Php650 

Kimono onesie from In The Crib, Php350

Future Azkals tee from Tot Couture, Php350

What sets Mothering Earthlings apart from most Filipino online shopping sites is that Mothering Earthlings has two online shops - one for the local market and one for the international market. After all, Rone and her family spent over a decade living in Spain, and is very much attuned to the fact that Filipinos based abroad have a hankering for all things Pinoy. 

The Philippine shop was launched mid February 2011. It has retail prices in pesos, payment options of Philippine Paypal, GCash or bank deposit.

The international shop was launched on August 2, 2011. The international shop has retail prices in US$ and accepts international Paypal payments and credit card options via Paypal. The international shop not only brings Filipino brands to the world but it is a place where Filipinos abroad can buy Filipino brands. A bonus too is that Filipinos based abroad can shop not only for themselves but also buy and send presents for their family and friends back home. 

Visit Mothering Earthlings via their:
Philippine Shop - www.motheringearthlings.com
International Shop - www.motheringearthlingsshop.shopify.com

For inquiries:  
Telephone - 217.6622
Mobile - 09178246432
Email - earthingsmama@gmail.com

For updates:
Like their Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/motheringearthlings

For a glimpse into the Earthlings life:
Vist Rone's blog - motheringearthlings.blogspot.com

Jelly Nelly


Jelly shoes and sandals are a fun alternative to flip flops, and tad bit more stylish of course.

But not all jelly shoes and sandals are made the same. I remember wearing cheap jelly glitter sandals from Marks & Spencer, which I would step out in, back in college during rainy days. I had them as flats (my then five year old sister had the same pair, we bought our jellies in the children's section of M&S haha) and another pair was heeled. Remember these? 90s flashback!


I have the pricier but yummy smelling Melissa sandals which come in the brightest colors and now I have Jelly Nelly Dani sandals, which are so comfy that the plastic doesn't rub into the feet at all. Plus they come in hues like clear, gray and turquoise.


Plus, its made out of Eco Jelly - "the latest technology in material composition that follows the safest and strictest standards, making sure it does not cause harm to the environment."


It's really cute, and beach perfect. Especially if you're not the aqua socks wearing type and want something more feminine. It goes with everything too, shorts, tunic dresses, even jeans if you wear a pair in the city.


The thing with Eco Jelly though, and I don't know if other Jelly Nelly owners have the same experience, is that it kind of starts to smell funky when not exposed to air. When I got my Jelly Nelly sandals, I kept them inside the plastic packaging and stored them in my closet. A couple of weeks later, when I took them out to wear, it sort of smelled, and I know it's not my feet because it's a brand new pair no! Heehee. Other than that, I have no complaints! They're affordable (only Php845/pair) and cute, so what's not to like!

Plus, they have little girl sizes so your Mini Me can wear the same pair as yours (although little girl sizes come in prettier colors like light blue, lavender and pink)!


Jelly Nelly is available at select boutiques in Metro Manila, Bacolod, Cebu and online via Mothering Earthlings. For the complete list of physical stores, click HERE!

For updates and to learn more about the Jelly Nelly brand, visit their website (www.jellynelly.com) and like them on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/jellynellysandals).

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

J.Crew Looks I Love: S/S 2012


I love espadrilles with shorts, the striped button down shirt, bright yellow pants and the pointy nude flats. Those printed trousers.


The striped dress with pointy orange flats, the unexpected twist of an embroidered dress and snakeskin flats, and the freshness of a white dress with gold "sandelles"(as Berry would say)


These looks make me want to wear a cropped jacket. The one in the middle is my fave.

Monday, June 25, 2012

Because Breaking In is Hard to Do

I really invest in shoes, because I know that I need to take care of my feet. For me, a great pair of shoes will last me a long time, and it's often a bonus that they are so well made, that there's no need to break in a pair, at all. So sulit na din, because I can wear them always, forever and ever.

But of course, there are days when even my most trusted brands don't come up to par. And as much as I have tried and tested a brand, there are times when a break-in for a new pair is still required.

A few months ago, I bought a pair of nude flats and found that after just an hour in them while doing groceries at S&R, I got blisters! Which seriously, I haven't gotten in a long time. It was a good thing I had a stash of Neat Feat products sent for me to road test:


I used the Gel Slingback Shields, which was just the right size to cover the area around the back part of the shoe that was rubbing against the back of my heel. And just like that! The shoe was comfortable as could be! A wonder product really!


So, if you are looking for a way to address your foot and shoe issues, Neat Feat could be the answer!

Neat Feat is a relatively affordable, complete line of foot care products from New Zealand, and unlike other brands in the market that only aim to provide foot comfort, Neat Feat takes it a step further (literally!) by providing cushioning and comfort for foot problems (i.e. athlete’s foot, flat foot, bunions). 

Neat Feat's Orthotics and Gel range is especially targeted towards athletes and runners, not only women who are particular about ensuring that their feet are comfy, cushioned and well-supported. 

Incidentally, Neat isn't only just for the feet. Neat also created 3B Facesaver, which is perfect for athletes who don’t want sweat disturbing their line of sight.

For more on Neat Feat, like them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NeatFeatPhilippines and Follow @neatfeat_PH on Twitter!

In the Philippines, Neat Feet is available at Watson's and ROX on Bonifacio High Street.

L'Occitane Angelica Giveaway

To celebrate L'Occitane Angelica line's first year anniversary here in the Philippines, there's a fun guessing game over at the Rustan's Facebook Page! Participants who guess correctly will stand a chance to win a prize - The Angelica Face Mist from L'Occitane and Rustan's! 

Join L'Occitane's FACEBOOK QUIZ by clicking on this LINK!


PLEASE NOTE: Your answers should be posted as a comment on the Facebook game page.

Entries are accepted until July 19, 2012. I will be choosing one winner who is able to guess correctly. Winner will be announced on July 20, 2012 and may claim the prize at the L'Occitane boutique in Rustans Makati.

Enjoy and Happy Guessing!

Friday, June 22, 2012

Itsie-Bitsie's End of Season Sale


Ladies! Spring sale at Itsie-Bitsie started June 8 and ends on June 29, 2012! Sale prices up to 50% OFF! ;)

Thursday, June 21, 2012

Find Me on AVA


I was invited by Oliver Segovia of AVA.ph and Kat Holigores of AVA.zine to be part of AVA's Idea-Listers and found myself in the company of people whose work I only read about. So yes, I was like, "What am I doing here?" Haha. So a huge thanks to Oliver and Kat for thinking of me and believing in my work too! :)

Of course, being an idea-lister requires that I pick out something from AVA each month. Just so you all get an idea of how I'd curate this month's selection. And hopefully, get you to discover the treasures in store at AVA. Here are my top picks for this month: 


It was seriously hard to whittle my list to just six items, seriously. But each item above is definitely something I'd want for myself or already have, so you know it's not just random pickings.

Oh! And of course, I do contribute to AVA.zine as well. It's like the magazine version of AVA, filled with nuggets of valuable information covering everything from art, to fashion and lifestyle. Yes, there are a lot of interesting reads there that pick at your mind and encourage you to look beyond just product launches and what people are wearing. Although of course, that's my guilty pleasure too. Hee!

Here's my list of the 5 Books on Style, which I shared over at Ava.zine and I think every girl should have these on her night table. Read here: http://ava.ph/avazine/archives/220

5 books on style, currently on my bedside table

Enjoy and see you over at AVA.ph!

Daphne Home Scents at Bench & Dimensione

When I got home, I just had to open the package right away and use my Daphne Home Scent in mint jasmine

You know how sometimes finding a hostess gift can be such a chore? That's how I feel sometimes when I am pressured to come up with something for a friend who invites us to their home. We often end up bringing a bottle of wine or some yummy specially ordered dessert. But food & wine, they don't really last long enough to make an impression. The fun in it can be fleeting, if not forgettable. 

That's why when Daphne Osena-Paez launched her line of home scents at Dimensione on Bonifacio High Street, I knew I found myself a winner. Because scents don't just linger, they leave memories too.


The scents, which come in lavender, mint jasmine and homemade lemon tart simply smell divine, are prettily packaged (reminds me of Jo Malone scents, in that simple but striking clear glass bottle with a black cap) and are special and thoughtful enough to give to hosts as gifts for housewarmings, play dates, or as a little something extra during pot lucks. I think these make great presents for our children's teachers and tutors too, or for colleagues at work!


While you can never really go wrong with any of these three scents "or flavors" as Berry calls it, if you are worried about choosing the right scent as a present, my suggestion is - simply get all three! At Php348 a bottle, you've got something that will surely please, at just a little over Php1000.

Meanwhile, for all of us especially, who read Daphne's blog, you may be well aware that she started her eponymous furniture line sometime back. Her first piece, which also debuted at Dimensione, is a range of chairs fashioned from farmed mahogany wood. Considered her signature piece, the Daphne chair is "whimsical yet rooted in practicality".


Apart from the red, white and blue you see above, the Daphne chair comes in an array of ice cream colors, like yellow, pink and lavender, as well basic black.


Daphne Home Scents retail at Php348 each and are available at Dimensione stores and selected Bench stores nationwide. Daphne chairs are available at Dimensione.

Missoni ♥ Havaianas 2012

My Missoni ♥ Havaianas from 2011, with my silver Sperry Topsiders (among my many pregnancy faves, hee!)

I love Havaianas and have been wearing them since they first came to Manila years ago. But admittedly, ever since Havaianas came out with a collection with Missoni last year, I have practically stopped wearing my other flip flops but the ones above. They're super cute plus I mean hello, I had to seek this pair out in Singapore (found these at TYAN in ION Orchard after searching online and making calls) because I knew they were limited edition. I know, such an effort for a pair of chinelas. 

So of course, I was thrilled when I found out that Missoni ♥ Havaianas was doing a round 2 this year! When I received the invite to the launch in Adora, I just had to go and check out the new designs in person. 


And this year's collection did not disappoint. While Missoni ♥ Havaianas limited edition pairs costs Php3,295 each, I still think its worth it. Because we are worth it! ;)

Missoni ♥ Havaianas Slim Rachel in Lemon (my must-have!)

Missoni ♥ Havaianas Top Patchwork in Black

Missoni ♥ Havaianas Top Fiammato

More than just a collaboration between iconic fashion brands, the Missoni ♥ Havaianas 2012 collection is designed using residual rubber pieces from the manufacturing process. The multi-colored Havaianas leftovers are mixed to create the signature Missoni zigzag patterns. Stylish and socially responsible at that!

I also noticed that the Slim Rachel and Fiammato styles come in teeny tiny sizes too (which is good news for adults with really small feet). Really, more like the size of kids, 7 and above! So you can get a matching pair for the little girl or little man in your life!

Of course, every flip-flop comes in a special packaging made of recyclable material featuring the famous zigzag pattern, and in a Missoni knit bag.


Now I am not entirely sure if this style will be coming in as well, because I spotted this in a US-based website. But this style is pretty cute and very purple-y!


The Missoni ♥ Havaianas 2012 collection is NOW available and exclusively retailed at Adora, Greenbelt 5. Hurry to Adora before these get sold out!

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Scotch Naturals for Maarte Pregnant Mommies

Scotch Naturals in Flying Scotsman 

To be honest, it wasn't until I got pregnant with Xavi that I realized how much I like putting on polish. I mean, yeah, I do collect Chanel polishes and I really do watch out for new colors to add to my collection each season, but when I was pregnant with Berry, going to the salon was the last thing on my mind. Salon services are so expensive abroad, I accepted the fact that it was an indulgence I could do without.

Not here in Manila.

I could get a manicure with polish for Php220, even if it meant bringing my own polish. Which I don't mind. Because I do have my own color and brand preferences. Especially now that I need something safe for pregnancy. I started off using Berry's Hopscotch Kids, but then I realized I wanted sophisticated, more "adult" colors.

Enter the grown-up counterpart of Hopscotch Kids: Scotch Naturals

Scotch Naturals in Troya 

Like Hopscotch Kids, the line is water-based. It is in fact "the premier non-toxic, eco-friendly alternative to conventional solvent-based nail polish. Their revolutionary water-based formula conditions nails and delivers long-lasting, salon-quality color." 

It contains no toluene, dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde, acetone, or heavy metals. But since it is water-based, it kind of chips easily, especially if you have "working hands". Surprisingly, I find that the polish lasts longer on my feet. With barely a chip towards the third week.

WEEK 1: Bright, shiny lacquered and cheery (paired with sandals from See by Chloe)

WEEK 2: Still looking good! (paired with Saltwater sandals)

WEEK 3: A bit dull, but still barely chipped! (paired with Anthology's Hudsons)

In fact, when I took off the polish after several weeks, using the accompanying Soy Polish Remover from Scotch Naturals, it was a bit of a struggle taking it out. The polish really is strong and lasts long! And what's best, my toe nails still looked pinkish and healthy, when it would have turned yellow with the standard nail polish brands in the market.

Whether you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or you just prefer using water-based, harsh-chemicals free polish as a lifestyle choice, Scotch Naturals is your best bet. I swear by it! And best of all, it's available in the Philippines. From the prettiest pastel shades, to classic neutrals like gray, olive green, and beige as well as bright juicy colors like orange and red.

Check out the full line composed of the base coat, top coat, polish remover and yummy colors available online via www.Ava.ph! When you do get the polish, I suggest you get the base coat and top coat as well. The base coat protects your nails, while the top coat strengthens the polish like no other. 


Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Snippets of Pregnancy Outfits

It has been so hectic the past few weeks that I haven't been able to really take photos of how I've been dressing my belly as Xavi grows. So here are snippets instead, just to document my old reliables, i.e. the comfortable but still (hopefully) stylish clothes and shoes that still make me feel good, even as I get bigger throughout this pregnancy, hehe :)

Boyfriend denims from Current/Elliott, Boyfriend shirt from Equipment France, Lanvin flats

Denim boyfriend shirt from Old Navy, cut-off shorts from Current/Elliott, Gray TOMS

H&M dress

Red flats with snakeskin cap toe detail from Lupe Saenz

Mango tank, Lauren Conrad blush blazer, J Brand jeans, Lanvin flats

Men's striped shirt from A.P.C., Current/Elliott cut-offs, Play x CDG Converse sneakers

A.P.C. dress, Lanvin flats

Dada's old button down shirt, Topshop leggings, Repetto BBs

Yup, I am about to turn 36 weeks this week, and for those like me who don't want to spend on maternity clothes, it can be done. You can survive without shopping! I just use loose tops, dresses, leggings and boyfriend jeans and wear a lot of flats. 

But I have to admit, the story would be different if you work in a corporate setting. In that case, just wear wrap-around dresses, as well as blazers over maternity tops/tanks with trousers. Maybe best to wear kitten heel pumps. And don't forget to accessorize! 
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