Archive for January, 2009

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Cool Find: Dad’s Blazer

Wednesday, January 28th, 2009

I actually have a habit of robbing my father’s closet. It’s filled with fun things like old school leather belts, vintage suits from the ’70s, and pina barongs he doesn’t use anymore.

My recent find: a beige blazer, complete with boxy shoulder pads.

I think it comes with a pair of flared trousers but I have yet to try those on. I’ve worn it with a cute onesie and fishnets and again with a long tux shirt, khaki shorts, and pumps. (Father said I looked like I had no pants on. Haha!)

I got the idea from http://karlascloset.blogspot.com

Her blog is widely followed, so much so that American Apparel tapped her to do a campaign for them. (Click here to see.)

Anyhow, in this entry she talks about a Lanvin blazer she originally purchased for her father. It turned out to be too small for him and she found herself the proud new owner of the jacket. I like how she’s paired it with a minidress and heels making it both sexy and feminine. (And so 80s!)

The blazer, or in this case the boyfriend blazer, is also a hot trend for Spring/Summer 2009. (You all really should have a look at the Trend Report that comes gratis with the January-February 2009 issue of Preview)

Father has been telling everyone from family to co-workers about how I found his old suit and I’ve taken to wearing it. “I’m still trying to figure out if I was that small (in build) when I was younger or if you’re just big,” he says.

Gee, thanks dad!

Isha.

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I Know I Could Be So Lucky.

Wednesday, January 28th, 2009

Priorities, priorities: prolonging my newly-acquired beach tan (okay, okay, “beach beige”) unfortunately took precedent over blog updates… surely thoust empathize. Before it becomes an itchy, hot mess, however–as it is wont to do after a few scrubbings–I plan to extend its lifespan for as long as humanly possible.

Body lotion is my least favorite beauty chore but these little inedible spreadables, I must say, make the whole process a little more exciting. And since slathering on the stuff is necessary to keep my bronze from, well, molting, I embrace the tediousness with open arms. Oh, to indulge in such sweet-scented, maximum-moisturizing goodness; woe is me. Body Butter from The Body Shop, let us continue this love affair we’ve had since back in the day, when you had only one boring smell.

I’m a huge fan of the Strawberry range, but somehow their new Peach flavor (simply dee-vine) takes me to my happy place.

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Stephen Sprouse at Louis Vuitton

Tuesday, January 27th, 2009

Sigh.

That’s literally the sound that emanated from Pauline and I (or was it a soft pitched oooooh!) when we walked by Louis Vuitton in Greenbelt 4 the other day. The graffiti roses on that Keepall just called out to us.

Keepall 50 Roses

That’s right, the tribute to Stephen Sprouse collection is currently in store. Look at the pretty graffiti roses! It’s like they’re glowing! (Day-Glo and neon accents are a big thing for Spring ’09. Have you gotten a copy of Preview’s Trend Report yet? It comes free with the January-February 2009 issue.)

Also available:

Rose pumps in suede goat leather beside the Neverfull MM Roses.

Accessory Pouch Roses

Rose Stole

Graffiti Gym Set

I figured the Speedy would get the most attention (the wait list is already THIS long), so i took the liberty of taking photos at varying angles for all of you who are curious. Special thanks to the nice folks at Louis Vuitton for letting me take photos. (FYI: It’s pricier than the usual with a tag of about P69,000.)

Speedy 30 Roses

From the side.

At an angle.

Graffiti Bag Accessory.

Doesn’t the bag charm just seal the look? They have bangles and pins with the graffiti logo too, for those who are fond of those sort of trinkets. Personally, I’m one for subtlety and discretion when it comes to branding but I think in this case, my fetish for roses on accessories won.

In other news, did you know that you could have your Speedy or Keepall personalized?

You can choose the color combination and stripe pattern and have your initials painted on as well. The idea is a tad Goyard, yes? But I suppose it all boils down to your purse preference.

We ran into Juana Manahan-Yupangco browsing through the possible options (note the handy album in her hands). Just browsing for now.

So do you think you’ll get a Sprouse? I have to admit, it’s sorely tempting.

Day-Glo roses!

Sigh.

Isha.

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Party Style: At The Manor

Wednesday, January 21st, 2009

We’ve been invited to the grand opening of Manor, the newest club in Eastwood City.

A grand staircase makes you feel like you’re walking up to a palatial Penthouse.

The club area upstairs also has a small open-air terrace that lets you take in the view of Eastwood’s inner courtyard.

The invitation specifies that it’s a pajama party. How very With Honors! Visions of Moira Kelly in her little slipdress reeling in a plaid clad Brendan Frasier are coming to mind. Haha.

So what would one wear to said party? I’ve been poring over sleepwear-inspired looks that are club worthy but not trashy. A bit of a challenge considering the choices span from slinky satins to fugly flannel.

The Sleep Shirt

Holly Golightly looked great in that oversized tux shirt in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Of course she was wearing it to sleep in the confines of her apartment so that was pretty appropriate.

How to make it work?

photo from http://www2.victoriassecret.com/

So let’s start with a cute night shirt like this one from Victoria’s Secret. (It would be spicier in a darker shade or a simple white though) Then let’s add a pair of glossy leggings…

Click here to see the Trendspotting article on Eel Leggings.

…like these with gladiator heels or slick black pumps or even sandal booties. That could look hot.

The Silky Robe

This was from Rosanna Ocampo’s collection for Fabric presented in July last year. It’s like a bedroom robe but the prints make it fun enough for a night on the town.

The kimono dress from the same collection gives the same feel as a robe and can be worn over a bodycon dress. It’s a nice, steady option.

The Lacy Nightie

I really think the lingerie-inspired looks of Blumarine’s Spring/Summer 2008 collection would be the hottest choice.

photos from www.style.com

It’s so chic with the cropped jacket and a belt resting on the hips. Of course I’d wear another slip or camisole underneath or slip on a pair of Kate’s lace tights to keep from feeling too bare. (The air’s still chilly, after all!)

photo from www.style.com

Or you could do a Stella McCartney (Fall ’07) and wear a sexy oversized sweater over a slip. It’s a little cozy for clubbing though.

I guess I’ll wait to see what the mood strikes me that night. Can’t wait to see what everyone else will be wearing. Stay tuned for the party pics.

Isha.

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Urban Renewal Programs

Wednesday, January 21st, 2009

I bet almost everyone is locked and loaded for their upcoming beach trips. If you’re as gung-ho about the summer sojourns as I am, you might want to trek to Azta Urban Salon‘s branches in Katipunan, Robinson’s Metroeast and Alabang Town Center for some crucial preptime. A 50% discount (half-off, woot woot) on ALL waxing services—from the back to the crack–awaits their peach-fuzzed clientele. No word as to when this godsend of a deal ends, so make the most of it ahora mismo.

 

They’ve also got goodies for those not Boracay-bound: from January 16-April 20, they’re giving you and three of your friends a 20% discount on hair and makeup packages (perfect for Spring/Summer garden weddings, debuts and other such seasonal fêtes that are all about the pretty). Oh, and check out their handy-dandy style menu—putting together your own “pre-paid style subscriptions” guarantees lower rates at the counter. Both promos are also available at their Eastwood and Metrowalk branches, in addition to those above.

(Click on the pic to see the menu.)

Like a fone plan, but for (gasp) beauty! Ridonkulously practical! Why didn’t they think of this sooner?

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Opinion: Liquid Leggings

Tuesday, January 20th, 2009

I’ve been collecting people’s reactions towards my current favorite item in my wardrobe.

photo from www.topshop.com

“It’s too shiny. It doesn’t flatter your legs. Don’t ever wear it again.”

(Meaning it takes the thighs up a size)

–Mummy

“But they’re so fab!”

–Beauty Editor (aka Eunice) who also has a pair. And most other fashion-savvy women seem to share this sentiment.

“Are those leather?”

(Accompanied by the faintest look of disbelief)

–Said he who was home from abroad and had me shop for a capsule wardrobe for him. This only goes to show the amount of faith he has in my taste.

“Are these by Kate?”

–Inquiry from man present at Fabric: Kate Torralba. (Note: I was wearing them that night, and I did have a fraternal doppelganger of sorts somewhere else in the crowd. Click here to see the party gallery.)

“No! They’re black.”

–Responds she who designs lacy and colorful tights for City Lady. (aka Kate Torralba)

“Damn! That’s all I can say. Damn!”

(Cringe.)

–Man who is best ignored.

End note: (this anecdote was passed on to me and I thought it was too funny not to share it)

Fashionista A wore liquid leggings to the family festivities last New Year’s Day. Husband A decided to play with some firecrackers (aka watusi) a little too near her.

“Hubby! My leggings!” she exclaimed indignantly when a spark came a little too close.

Husband laughed saying “You’re more concerned about your leggings than your legs?”

Fashion priorities seem to be in order :)

I still think they’re awesome and I’m wearing them out while they’re still on-trend. How do you wear your pair?

Isha.

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Fallen Angels

Monday, January 19th, 2009

‘Cause she just turned 35, because grunge is on a revisit and mostly because I just love the blissful melancholy of seeing them try to work it out with other people (Vanessa who?). Deep down, JnK, I know you know you’re completely MFEO. Or, at least, pretend to be and give some hope for angsty children of the ’90s like me.

Here’s to gnarly hair, star-cross’d lovers and perhaps the sexiest couple Of All Time.

Happy birthday, Kate!

Photo creds: ggpht.com, photobucket.com

P.S. I really think the grooviest thing about having a blog is making no apologies for the number of Kate Moss posts I write. First love, people. You understand.

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Fashion Bites: A Stylin’ Soltera

Monday, January 19th, 2009

Cousin dearest will be getting married early next month and her Despedida de Soltera last Saturday was a fun little preview of how great her wedding’s going to be. (More eating, more drinking, some dancing, and a ton of silliness in store.)

My cousin Mitzi and her maid of honor, Celine.

Mitzi, Celine, my other fab cuz Catrina, and I all went to Vietnam a few months ago to do a little fabric shopping for the wedding. (Click here to see my entry Shop Saigon.) We found the prettiest pale pink embroidered tulle for her soltera dress which Joey (Samson) turned into a simple shift.

He used the scalloped edges to highlight the neck and hemline. Pretty velvet straps held everything in place. The neckline dipped into a deeper V at the back, with the scalloped edging making it look incredibly romantic.

Patty Morato-Roa is and has been one of my cousin’s best friends since high-school. She’s designing the dresses for the entourage, which we fit that morning. I’m so excited to post about the gown I’ll be wearing, with it’s fluffy ball skirt (My crinoline dreams have come true!), and Jackie O. neckline. Doesn’t Patty look amazing? You can’t even tell she’s pregnant.

Here’s a preview of my niece Solana wearing her magenta flower girl dress. Note: the flower applique she’s holding in her hands is from the fabric we bought in Saigon. Patty will be using it as an accent piece on the gowns. (Click here to see my entry Shop Saigon.)

Back to the soltera…stylish friends present: a sleepy Bianca Gonzales and Louis Vuitton’s Pam Picazo. Don’t you love Pam’s asymmetric dress? Bianca’s dress was loads of fun with a peek-a-boo at the back.

Here I am switching scene modes on my camera, trying to do a Jeurgen Teller. L-R: Celine’s dress is from F&H. What a cool find! I’m really loving Jett’s black bustier. It has pockets! Any dress with pockets is a winner in my book. I’m all about form and function.

And to end…a quick shot of the happy couple. Congratulations Mitz and Hen! Looking forward to the big day ;)

Isha.

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DIY: Alexander Wang 2009

Saturday, January 17th, 2009

This isn’t actually my spur of genius, rather I stumbled upon it on a day when I got drunk on Chictopia (read: couldn’t stop clicking).

Anyhow, my other favorite thing to do besides bargain hunt is figure out how to do-it-myself. I seem to derive more pleasure in figuring out how to make a beautiful dress, accessory, what have you, than actually purchasing the item. (It’s my inner Sylar, gasp!)

So it started because I liked her style. Then I saw her DIY: Alexander Wang tutorials. Fun!

(All photos from http://theseams.blogspot.com/)

A runway photo from Alexander Wang’s Fall ’09 collection.

A photo of the young blogger in her own version of the sweater.

She made a tank top version too! Click here to see her tutorial.

I’m thinking of trying it myself save for the lack of a heavy cable knit sweater. I wonder if it will work on some other type of sweatshirt.

I suppose if there’s anyone to cop right now it would be Alexander Wang. The CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund has got the whole 80s meets punk look down pat. Plus he and BFF, model-stylist Erin Wasson have become such paparazzi and editorial fodder that it comes as no surprise that his collection’s getting the same lusty looks that Balmain has for a while now.

Imitation is the best form of flattery. Or so they say.

Maybe I’ll call it being creatively budget-friendly.

Isha.

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Fashion Bites: Fabric featuring Kate Torralba

Friday, January 16th, 2009

I was a little disappointed with the turnout last night. I thought the place would be packed. Nonetheless, it was a fun evening (as would be expected from an event with Kate). So for those of you who couldn’t make it, here are my highlights.

Kate with her team. Check out her store manager, Nice Buenaventura. She’s totally channeling Agyness Deyn with her hat, glasses, and eclectic style.

Jun Poblador gave her a limited edition Bob Mackie Barbie doll. He said, “Check out the gown on this doll. When I saw it I thought of Kate right away.”

She performed three songs before the fashion show (very Tori Amos). She’s actually releasing an album soon so stay tuned. Here’s the gig sched I pulled off Facebook if you’d like to hear her sing live.

Jan 16 (Fri) – West Grand Boulevard Tour, Mag:Net High Street, The Fort 1030pm
Jan 23 (Fri) – Cafe Saguijo, San Antonio Village, Makati 10pm
Jan 28 (Wed) – The POP Shoppe, Gweilos, C. Palanca St., Makati 10pm
Jan 30 (Fri) – Anabel Bosch Fundraiser, Mag:Net High Street, The Fort 10pm

Backstage, we stalked the models a bit to see the tights better. Can you guess which legs belong to which model? Sanya, Bianca, Ornusa, Mia, and Raya are somewhere in this photo. I like the light gray lacey tights with a paisley-ish pattern.

I also thought this was cool.

Styling Tip: Layer a pair of textured tights over a pair of opaque ones for an interesting contrast. This blue and black combination was interesting. It’ll look great with either a simple LBD or a dominantly dark dress with textured fabric or pleating.

This is my favorite dress from the collection. I like the play of textures. I also went through a pink + brown phase a while back. This would have been perfect.

My favorite part of the night was all the dancing and random picture taking that came after the show. It’s been awhile. Haha! Must stick to my resolution to be more fun this year. This was a nice way to kickstart things.

Isha.

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