Archive for February, 2009

THEA in Women’s Wear Daily!

Friday, February 27th, 2009

When Thea Jacinto was only 15 years old. her mother asked me if she could spend a summer in my studio and apprentice. Her mother Kitty is a dear friend of mine and I automatically agreed.  Even at that early age, Thea already showed such a strong sense of style that I could not help but get inspired by this young lady.

Today, she attends one of the most important art colleges in the US, the Rhode Island School of Design!  I received a lovely email today with message that Thea’s project landed in Women’s Wear Daily!!! FYI, this is like the newspaper of the entire fashion industry!  OMG!  I attached her letter and the photos of her project together with the column!

I could not help but swell up with pride!  Thea is like my own daughter!  I know that this is just the start of her wonderful love affair with fashion.  Congratulations, my darling Thea!  I am so very proud of you!

BIG HUGS!

RAJO!

I MADE WOMEN’S WEAR DAILY!!!!!!!

50 Students in my department were asked to re-imagine Gap sweaters.
Here is the message they sent us about the project:

The Gap is asking RISD to participate in a special GAP event for their NY Flagship store.  They are asking students to decorate or recreate GAP cardigan sweaters (in our special RISD creative way) to be showcased and sold on Feb. 11 in the new GAP NY store.

In return the Gap will make a sizable donation to RISD, and the event would get a lot of press highlighting RISD’s participation.
Given current financial situation at RISD (and the country), this would be an opportunity for you to contribute to RISD through your creativity.


My name is not on the article but I can still use it in my portfolio! I want to go to NY now to see the actual store. I am so kilig!

Love, Thea

Hello,
Thank you for participating in the Gap Sweater Project.  Attached please find a copy of the article about the GAP project in today’s WW Daily.  I have also attached a copy of pictures taken of your sweater.
Thanks again for helping make this such a huge success!
The Apparel Design Dept.
RISD

OSCARS Red Carpet Review!

Thursday, February 26th, 2009

I am a HUGE fan of the Academy Awards Night! If you’re anything close to a lover of fashion, you all know that the OSCARS is like our version of Christmas.  I actually skip work so that I can see it, and this year was no different.

My favorite part is the red carpet walk!  I have always done a review on my own for the dresses that are worn by the actresses, but this is the first time I will be reviewing it for many to see.  I actually was quite impressed with this year’s gowns, and the show itself was sensational!  I loved that the show took us on a journey on how movies are made. Hugh Jackman was just a stellar host!  Listed below are my rants and raves!

 This dress worn by Marissa Tomei was one of my favorites!  I love how modern the skirt is, its a novel version of how to do a book pleat technique. It was done by Atelier Versace which is the couture arm of the house.  The Silk satin Oganza was the perfect choice for the design as you can really see the drama of the pleating.

This dress, worn by Marissa Tomei, was one of my favorites! I love how modern the skirt is. It's a novel version of how to do a book pleat technique. It was done by Atelier Versace which is the couture arm of the house. The silk satin organza was the perfect choice for the design, as you can really see the drama of the pleating.

This woman is FIERCE!  I actually do not know Evan Rachel Wood or what she starred in but this gown by Ellie Saab is just Beautiful!  I love how the pale nude/blush peach chiffon just matches her dewy skin and red hair!  The draped bodice is just perfect!

This woman is FIERCE! I actually do not know Evan Rachel Wood or what she starred in, but this gown by Ellie Saab is just beautiful! I love how the pale nude/blush peach chiffon just matches her dewy skin and red hair! The draped bodice is just perfect!

 This dress was from Christian Dior couture spring 2009.  I loved that show, I thought that that collection was FABULOUS!  Actually several starts wore gowns from that collection to the oscars one such star is French Actress Marion Cotillard.  I love the 50's silhouette with the patent belt and the voluminous skirt.  The sheer skirt added some modernity to the classic shape.  She could have ditched the double necklace though as I thought that it was distracting.

This dress was from Christian Dior Couture Spring 2009. I loved that show; I thought that the collection was FABULOUS! Actually, several stars wore gowns from that collection to the Oscars. One such star is French actress Marion Cotillard. I love the '50s silhouette with the patent belt and the voluminous skirt. The sheer skirt added some modernity to the classic shape. She could have ditched the double necklace though, as I thought that it was distracting.

 She looks like a modern day GODDESS!  Anne Hathaway was stunning in this Armani Prive gown, I love the way the beadwork cascaded into bigger paillettes as it reached the hem, the color is so soothing,. I love a bare shoulder and I notice quite a number of strapless dresses that evening.

She looks like a modern day GODDESS! Anne Hathaway was stunning in this Armani Prive gown. I love the way the beadwork cascaded into bigger paillettes as it reached the hem, and the color is so soothing,. I love a bare shoulder and I noticed quite a number of strapless dresses that evening.

 This gown is so Carrie Bradshaw!  LOL!  I mean sometimes I cant separate the character from the atctress.  This gown is by Christian Dior couture spring 2009.  This is a lesson to all the ladies out there if you find a silhouette that works for you...stick with it!  I have seen many version of this on Sarah Jessica Parker but it looks great on her so why change?  I love the fact that you can see the horse hair crinoline lining and the asymetric beadwork gives it that certain edge.

This gown is so Carrie Bradshaw! LOL! I mean sometimes I can't separate the character from the actress. This gown is by Christian Dior Couture Spring 2009. This is a lesson to all the ladies out there: if you find a silhouette that works for you...stick with it! I have seen many versions of this on Sarah Jessica Parker but it looks great on her, so why change it? I love the fact that you can see the horse hair crinoline lining and the asymmetric beadwork gives it that certain edge.

 Mrs Pitt was just flawless that evening!  This black chiffon Ellie Saab number seems simple but on closer inspection the draping is just genius!  I mean that hint of sheer leg is so darn HOT!  I also love the jewelry she had on, that large emerald ear drops and her cocktail ring added the right hint of color!  I am in love with Angelina!  LOL!

Mrs. Pitt was just flawless that evening! This black chiffon Ellie Saab number seems simple, but upon closer inspection, the draping is just genius! I mea,n that hint of sheer leg is so darn HOT! I also love the jewelry she had on. Those large emerald ear drops and her cocktail ring added the right hint of color! I am in love with Angelina! LOL!

 Penelope Cruz was definitely channeling her inner Audrey Hepburn that evening, what with the cropped bangs and the VIntage Balmain ( I read that the dress is 60 years old!!!) This is what I call OLD SCHOOL GLAMOUR!  Its a true classic, a lot of my gal pals voted this as the best dress that night. I could see why as its very feminine.

Penelope Cruz was definitely channeling her inner Audrey Hepburn that evening, what with the cropped bangs and the vintage Balmain (I read that the dress is 60 years old!!!). This is what I call OLD SCHOOL GLAMOUR! It's a true classic, and a lot of my gal pals voted this as the best dress that night. I could see why, as it's very feminine.

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 I have to say that I LOVE  Tilda Swindon!  She is one of my style ICONS!  I love this ensemble from LANVIN, I think its very very chic!  Ms Swindon has always been a directional dresser.  I love that this was just so easy and simple, I mean this is STYLE!  Its EFFORTLESS!

I have to say that I LOVE Tilda Swinton! She is one of my style ICONS! I love this ensemble from LANVIN. I think it's very, very chic! Ms, Swinton has always been a directional dresser. I love that this was just so easy and simple, I mean this is STYLE! It's EFFORTLESS!

 Kudos for Ms. Frida Pinto for wearing color! God knows the red carpet needed some bit of life, I mean everyone was in safe neutrals!  This gown is by John Galiano. I love the color but I am not so sure on the style, I mean Ms. Pinto is very petite, I think she must be under 5 feet 4.  So I found the style a bit overwhelming.  A huge trend that night was asymetry.  There were several ladies with skewed necklines.

Kudos for Ms. Freida Pinto for wearing color! God knows the red carpet needed some bit of life, I mean, everyone was in safe neutrals! This gown is by John Galliano. I love the color but I am not so sure about the style. I mean, Ms. Pinto is very petite, I think she must be under 5 feet 4. So I found the style a bit overwhelming. A huge trend that night was asymmetry. There were several ladies with skewed necklines.

 Meryl Streep is in a league all her own!  I mean if I ever met this woman I would probably faint! LOL!   I like the style of her gown but this Alberta Ferretti has some fitting issues.  I can live with the color but all that puckering would drive me insane!  Styling wise Ms. Streep looks gorgeous!

Meryl Streep is in a league all her own! I mean. if I ever met this woman I would probably faint! LOL! I like the style of her gown but this Alberta Ferretti has some fitting issues. I can live with the color but all that puckering would drive me insane! Styling wise, Ms. Streep looks gorgeous!

While watching the show I got a message asking how old Miley Cirus was?  I think she is 16 I answered.  Then she popped in on my TV looking like she was 30!  LOL!   I think the gown is OVER!  It reminds me of a gown from the SAGALAS in Santa Cruzan, maybe if it was worn on an older woman then perhaps in could work.  The fit and the design is OK  but it was worn by the wrong actress.

While watching the show I got a message asking how old Miley Cyrus was? I think she is 16, I answered. Then she popped in on my TV looking like she was 30! LOL! I think the gown is OVER! It reminds me of a gown from the SAGALAS in Santa Cruzan, maybe if it was worn by an older woman, then perhaps it could work. The fit and the design is OK, but it was worn by the wrong actress.

 That peek a boo back detail is killing me!

That peek-a-boo back detail is killing me!

 I could not understand why a woman as sexy as Jessica Biel would wear something that makes her look fat and Frumpy!  I mean this heavy satin gown by Prada is just SOOOOOO wrong on so many levels that I am left baffled?  Sayang, she is so pretty pa naman.

I could not understand why a woman as sexy as Jessica Biel would wear something that makes her look fat and frumpy! I mean, this heavy satin gown by Prada is just SOOOOOO wrong on so many levels that I am left baffled. Sayang, she is so pretty pa naman.

OK!  I have to say that I have seen this Roland Mouret dress and I loved it!  It was really beautiful the origami pleating was genius.   However when It was worn by Heidi Klum it looked like a Project Runway disaster!  I think that she is just too big for the dress, it would be better suited for someone more lithe and waiflike not an AMAZONA like Ms. Klim.  The styling was also questionable? I mean this dress does not need that much bling, it looses the modernity when piled on with busy jewelry.

OK! I have to say that I have seen this Roland Mouret dress and I loved it! It was really beautiful and the origami pleating was genius. However, when it was worn by Heidi Klum, it looked like a Project Runway disaster! I think that she is just too big for the dress, so it would be better suited for someone more lithe and waiflike, not an AMAZONA like Ms. Klum. The styling was also questionable. I mean, this dress does not need that much bling, for it loses the modernity when piled on with busy jewelry.

 All I can say it YIKES?!!!  ms. Beyonce is such a beatiful woman I cant imagine why she put herself in major mishaps such as this dress from the house of Dereon?  Did your mother make you wear it?   I love this look from the neck up!  Two words...WOW MALI!!!!

All I can say it YIKES?!!! Ms. Beyonce is such a beautiful woman, so I can't imagine why she put herself in major mishaps such as this dress from the house of Dereon. Did your mother make you wear it? I love this look from the neck up! Two words...WOW MALI!!!!

 This Rodarte dresss worn by Nathalie Portman is BORING!!!!!  I love pink its my favorite color but somehow seeing this pepto bismol gown might make re think my fave color.

This Rodarte dresss worn by Natalie Portman is BORING!!!!! I love pink - it's my favorite color - but somehow seeing this Pepto Bismol gown might make me rethink my fave color.

 This is one SCARY outfit!  It is so painful to the eyes that I did not want to find out who did this dress for Whoopi Goldberg.  I would not wish this atrocity on my worst enemy!  It is just plain AWFUL!

This is one SCARY outfit! It is so painful to the eyes that I did not want to find out who did this dress for Whoopi Goldberg. I would not wish this atrocity on my worst enemy! It is just plain AWFUL!

I was not feeling the look and the vibe of Ms. Jennifer Anniston.  I thought that she was actually forgettable.  The gown was decent and her make up looked OK, maybe that was it?  She was just OK? I thought that she could have stepped up the anti a bit as her EX was there with Angelina!  DIba she could have done a style showdown?  LOL!

I was not feeling the look and the vibe of Ms. Jennifer Aniston. I thought that she was actually forgettable. The gown was decent and her makeup looked OK, so maybe that was it? She was just OK? I thought that she could have upped the ante a bit as her EX was there with Angelina! Diba she could have done a style showdown? LOL!

 Sophia Loren is one of the most sensual women on the planet!   I was just thinking does she need all those ruffles?  Mr. Armani was probably out to lunch when he was designing this dress because it sure needs some major editing!  She is still so beautiful....Goodness she must be in her mid 70's!

Sophia Loren is one of the most sensual women on the planet! I was just thinking, does she need all those ruffles? Mr. Armani was probably out to lunch when he was designing this dress because it sure needs some major editing! She is still so beautiful....Goodness, she must be in her mid 70's!

let begin with the good news... I love Kate Winslet and I loved her in the reader, I also love hair style!  I thought that she had the best hair that evening, I also like the gun metal grey color of her gown.. HOWEVER!  I did not like her gown by Stefanno Pilati for Yves Saint Laurent.  The gown looked like it was schizophrenic?  It looked like two very different gown being fused into one.

Let's begin with the good news... I love Kate Winslet and I loved her in The Reader. I also love her hair style! I thought that she had the best hair that evening. I also like the gunmetal gray color of her gown.. HOWEVER, I did not like her gown by Stefano Pilati for Yves Saint Laurent. The gown looked like it was schizophrenic, like two very different gowns being fused into one.

(Photos from style.com and oscars.com)

BIG HUGS!
RAJO!

Bora Bound!

Thursday, February 26th, 2009

I should take down notes from the way Malu Gamboa throws a party.  The very next day after her fabulous bash, we all flew to Boracay!  It was the absolutely the best time to go.  The sun was out and the wind was breezy, so it was hot but not humid.  The weather was just PERFECT!  We all stayed at the Discovery Shores!

I still believe that Discovery Shores has the BEST beds on the island.  If not for the fantastic weather, I would stay in bed the whole time. They also have the best service that I have ever ever tried!  Here are some photos from our chill out weekend!

 We all flew out of Manila at around 230 pm, the flight was only slightly delayed.  We did not mine we had the best company.  Leica, Nix, birthday girl Malu.  Malu's best buddy Dean Hee from NYC flew in to join the party and our good friend Bob.

We all flew out of Manila at around 2:30 pm. The flight was only slightly delayed. We did not mind, for we had the best company: Leica, Nix, birthday girl Malu. Malu's best buddy Dean Hee from NYC flew in to join the party and our good friend Bob.

 The gang is all here, we arrived a few hours before sun set so it was the perfect time for cocktail hour!  YAHOO!

The gang is all here: we arrived a few hours before sunset so it was the perfect time for cocktail hour! YAHOO!

 I love taking photos as the sun is setting as you get incredible light, having cocktails at the bar!  We were joined by another friend Johnny Francisco who now lives in San Francisco. ( Funny how its the boys in this photo who pouts with the attitude of the baddest supermao! LOL)

I love taking photos as the sun is setting since I get incredible light, like this shot of the gang having cocktails at the bar! We were joined by another friend, Johnny Francisco, who now lives in San Francisco. (Funny how it's the boys in this photo who pout with the attitude of the baddest supermao! LOL)

 Maja Gamboa show us how to be super chic in BORA, I love her contrabida hat and shades!  DIBA ANG CHIKA?!

Maja Gamboa show us how to be super chic in BORA. I love her contrabida hat and shades! DIBA ANG CHIKA?!

Got the chance to catch up with my fave workout buddy....Mandy Santos!  As usual she was SIZZLING HOT!

Got the chance to catch up with my fave workout buddy....Mandy Santos! As usual, she was SIZZLING HOT!

 AHHH....The beautiful sunset of Bora!  All I need and want is right here....This vista and a grey goose tonic!  HEAVEN!

AHHH....The beautiful sunset of Bora! All I need and want is right here....This vista and a Grey Goose tonic! HEAVEN!

 Malu's  nephew Emilio was also with us, providing all of us with the cutest antics and the best smile!

Malu's nephew Emilio was also with us, providing all of us with the cutest antics and the best smile!

More photos by the bar!

More photos by the bar!

 BFF'S for life!  Leica and Malu The best CHICKS in the planet!

BFF'S for life: Leica and Malu, the best CHICKS in the planet!

GRRRR!!!! Power!  Animals prints reigned supreme this season as worn by chic chicks Leah de Guzman and Mandy Santos!

GRRRR!!!! Power! Animals prints reigned supreme this season, as worn by chic chicks Leah de Guzman and Mandy Santos!

 We all wanted grilled sea food for dinner...so we checked out these beauties.

We all wanted grilled seafood for dinner...so we checked out these beauties.

My most fave moment was when it was time to blow Malu's cake the band started to play the happy birthday sound in a Banda Fiesta manner to a volume of an intensity 8 earth quake!  I swear that the they could here the birthday greeting all the way to KALIBO!  LOL!

My fave moment was when it was time to blow Malu's cake. The band started to play the Happy Birthday song in a Barrio Fiesta manner, with the volume of an intensity 8 earthquake! I swear that they could hear the birthday greeting all the way to KALIBO! LOL!

 The next day we all decided to do what we do best in BORA.  Lie in the sun and just chill!  Here Bob working on much needed sun as it's still grey and chilly in Shanghai.

The next day, we all decided to do what we do best in BORA: lie in the sun and just chill! Here is Bob working on a much needed suntan, as it's still gray and chilly in Shanghai.

 This was my view from where I was lying... I did not want to move!!!! EVER!!!!

This was my view from where I was lying... I did not want to move!!!! EVER!!!!

 Nix and Bob, I promised Nix that I would not put photo without a shirt on the blog but I could not resist...I  find my Nix soooo adorable!

Nix and Bob: I promised Nix that I would not put a photo of him without a shirt on the blog but I could not resist...I find my Nix soooo adorable!

 BIG HUGS TO NIX!!!!

BIG HUGS TO NIX!!!!

HUGS!
RAJO!

MALU’s Birthday!

Wednesday, February 25th, 2009

One of my most favorite people in the whole wide world celebrated her birthday a few days ago: none other than my “SUNSHINE,”  Ms. Malu Gamboa!   Malu is one of those people that automatically puts everyone at ease and has a ready smile to brighten up anyone’s day. We celebrated her birthday bash in her restaurant Circulo (Malu comes from the family that gave us Milky Way, Tsukiji and Azuthai).  Not that I am being biased, but she has the BEST restaurants in the city!  PROMISE!

It was a party that had all the perfect ingredients.  We had the best spread lovingly prepared by her genius of a brother Chef J Gamboa.  The restaurant was beautifully decorated by Anton Barretto, and we had our favorite band led by the son of Rico J. Puno.  FYI: I do not know the name of the band, but let me tell you, they are AMAZING!  They were so generous, as those of us who could carry a tune sounded like a PRO.  Next time you want a band, do call Rox Puno at +6392985966020.  I guarantee that you will have the most fun time.

This party was the start of how people should celebrate. The day after we all flew to Boracay to continue the festivities. I will post about that soon, but in the meantime, please enjoy the photos of Malu’s birthday bash!

Malu ( with the Champagne glass, NACH!) with Charlie Carmona, Bob Mccubbing ( who flew all the way from Shanghai)  Teenee Chan, Me and NIx.  Celebrating the night away.

Malu ( with the Champagne glass, NACH!) with Charlie Carmona, Bob McCubbing ( who flew all the way from Shanghai) Teenee Chan, Me and Nix. Celebrating the night away.

 More party peeps.  Pepper, Tessa A., Marissa, Boompee, Maly , Anton, Kitty Jacinto....who  is  looking absolutely gorgeous and Junie!

More party peeps: Pepper, Tessa A., Marissa, Boompee, Maly , Anton, Kitty Jacinto, who is looking absolutely gorgeous, and Junie!

 Bob and Teenee. (Teenee by the way has the most  beautiful voice!!! )

Bob and Teenee. (Teenee, by the way, has the most beautiful voice!!! )

 Super stylish...Marissa Lopa who was in the slickest patent leggings!  EYELAHVET!

Super stylish...Marissa Lopa who was in the slickest patent leggings! EYELAHVET!

The Parents of Malu...Tito Nards and Tita Julie Gamboa.

The Parents of Malu...Tito Nards and Tita Julie Gamboa.

 Prize for the star of the night goes to Chari Mercado flanked by Malu and Her hubby Lito.  ( The theme of the party was Madonna nights but it was only Chari who complied!  LOL! Gotta send some love to her as she changed pa for this party, we were together in another event and she was not in this outfit, that is what I call LOVE!)

Prize for the star of the night goes to Chari Mercado, flanked by Malu and her hubby Lito. ( The theme of the party was Madonna Nights, but it was only Chari who complied! LOL! Gotta send some love to her, as she changed pa for this party. We were together in another event and she was not in this outfit, so that is what I call LOVE!)

 More Joy all around!  Most specially when Tessa arrived!

More Joy all around! Most specially when Tessa arrived!

 Rox Puno and Adonis!  Rocked the night away!

Rox Puno and Adonis rocked the night away!

 LOVELY couple Elena Andaya and My other fave person Martin Arnaldo.

LOVELY couple Elena Andaya and my other fave person Martin Arnaldo.

 Leah Puyat startst he Rockaoke party!

Leah Puyat starts the Rockeoke party!

 This was DELISH!  Slow oven roasted beef ribs cooked to perfection!

This was DELISH! Slow oven-roasted beef ribs cooked to perfection!

 My plate....before it disappeared in like 3 minutes! LOL!

My plate....before it disappeared in like 3 minutes! LOL!

 Three of the best people in the planet!  Nix+Malu+BOb= PARTY!

Three of the best people in the planet! Nix+Malu+BOb= PARTY!

The dancing went all night!  Forever gorgeous Lulu Tan Gan with Angelette ( Feel na feel) Calero and Marissa ( Game na game) Lopa, shows everyone how GROOVE Is done!

The dancing went all night! Forever gorgeous Lulu Tan Gan with Angelette (Feel na feel) Calero and Marissa (Game na game) Lopa, shows everyone how GROOVE is done!

 Lovely ladies!  Susie Ann Go and birthday girl. Malu.

Lovely ladies: Susie Ann Go and birthday girl Malu.

 If bodies could kill these two would be the most vicious assassins!  Leica and BOY TOY of the evening Jon-Jon Rufino!

If bodies could kill, these two would be the most vicious assassins! Leica and BOY TOY of the evening, Jon-Jon Rufino!

HUGS!
RAJO!

Oscars Extravaganza!

Sunday, February 22nd, 2009

My mind right now is racing with about a thousand positive adjectives….I just came from one amazing photo exhibit!  As a tribute to the upcoming Academy Awards (on Feb. 22 and will be shown on Velvet TV on the 23rd at like 9 am), the country’s finest photographers and stylists joined forces to create an homage to the greatest films ever made! I was left with the chills, as the images were just mind blowing!  The whole evening was just FANTASTIC!  It was everything I loved….Film, Photography, Fashion!  I wish that they could extend the exhibit longer as I know it was for one night only.  I know that you will really enjoy these pictures!

 This iconic image is obviously from the movie the Godfather.  What is absolutely amazing is that the guy in the photo is non other than DIETHER OCAMPO!  OMG!  This blew me away!  This photo was shot by Paolo Pineda and styled by Bea Constantino.

This iconic image is obviously from the movie, "The Godfather." What is absolutely amazing is that the guy in the photo is none other than DIETHER OCAMPO! OMG! This blew me away! This photo was shot by Paolo Pineda and styled by Bea Constantino.

This photo was inspired by the film Million dollar Baby.  This photo was styled by Franco Saycon and shot by Milo Sogueco.  What I love about this image is the movement that it captured even if its quite violent there is a sensual elegance in its composition.

This photo was inspired by the film "Million Dollar Baby." This photo was styled by Franco Saycon and shot by Milo Sogueco. What I love about this image is the movement that it captured. Even if it's quite violent, there is a sensual elegance in its composition.

 Bianca Valerio  kisses her photo!

Bianca Valerio kisses her photo!

 Pinky Tobiano was transformed into Cleopatra for the photo shoot!

Pinky Tobiano was transformed into Cleopatra for the photo shoot!

 This photo was one of my favorites!  Its an homage to the movie the Duchess.  What I loved about this image is that its not a literal take on the movie but a stylish interpretation.  Karylle plays the lead role in the photo and I love her soulful gaze.  This was shot by Noelle Hernandez and expertly styled by Rex Atienza.

This photo was one of my favorites! It's an homage to the movie "The Duchess." What I loved about this image is that it's not a literal take on the movie but a stylish interpretation. Karylle plays the lead role in the photo and I love her soulful gaze. This was shot by Noelle Hernandez and expertly styled by Rex Atienza.

 Divine lee as Velma in the movie Chicago!  I love that Divine captured the persona of Velma to a T!   Shot by Pat Dy and styled by Bibay Gaisano.

Divine Lee as Velma in the movie "Chicago!" I love that Divine captured the persona of Velma to a T! Shot by Pat Dy and styled by Bibay Gaisano.

Edward Scissor hands is one of my all time favorite movies!  I was so moved when I saw the photo of Niccolo Cosme and Stylist Lotho.  They really transformed Christian Bautista into the character.  It was incredible down to the minute detail.

"Edward Scissorhands" is one of my all-time favorite movies! I was so moved when I saw the photo of Niccolo Cosme and Stylist Lotho. They really transformed Christian Bautista into the character. It was incredible, down to the minute detail.

 some pictures behind the scenes.

Some behind-the-scenes pictures.

 Christian Hamming it up in front of his photo.

Christian Hamming it up in front of his photo.

Bianca Araneta-Elizalde in the image from the movie Shakespeare in love, this was shot by Dix Perez and Kat Cruz.

Bianca Araneta-Elizalde in the image from the movie "Shakespeare in Love," shot by Dix Perez and styled by Kat Cruz.

 This was the most fun photo of the evening!  The image of Eric Cua as John Travolta in the movie Saturday night fever left me in stiches!  I love the dedication to the pose!  Parang Vietnamese disco god! LOL!    This photo was shot by Frank Hoefsmit and styled to perfection by Charmaine Palermo.

This was the most fun photo of the evening! The image of Eric Cua as John Travolta in the movie "Saturday Night Fever" left me in stitches! I love the dedication to the pose! Parang Vietnamese disco god! LOL! This photo was shot by Frank Hoefsmit and styled to perfection by Charmaine Palermo.

 I heard that the photo shoot of the coverboys in the movie platoon was the most fun!  I can just imagine photographer Raymund Isaac and talented stylist Sydney Yap having a ball with these beautiful specimens of manhoood!  I also heard that this photo was being auctioned off for charity?  HMMM....Whats the starting bid! LOL!

I heard that the photo shoot of The Coverboys in the movie "Platoon" was the most fun! I can just imagine photographer Raymund Isaac and talented stylist Sydney Yap having a ball with these beautiful specimens of manhoood! I also heard that this photo was being auctioned off for charity? HMMM....What's the starting bid!? LOL!

 Enchong Dee as Luke Sky Walker in the film Star wars.  This image was styled by Tina Daniac and shot by Jeffrey Sonora.

Enchong Dee as Luke Skywalker in Star Wars. This image was styled by Tina Daniac and shot by Jeffrey Sonora.

 Marc Abaya as the Joker in the movie Batman.  This was picture was taken by Jake Versoza and styled by Erica Paredes.  I love the bias plaide pants!

Marc Abaya as the Joker in Batman. This was picture was taken by Jake Versoza and styled by Erica Paredes. I love the bias plaid pants!

This shot inspired by the movie Flash dance had the entire sound track blaring as photographer Erik Liongoren was shooting away, I wonder if stylist Shahani Gania was the one pouring water all over Tweetie De leon?

This shot was inspired by the movie "Flashdance." They had the entire soundtrack blaring as photographer Erik Liongoren was shooting away. I wonder if stylist Shahani Gania was the one pouring water all over Tweetie De leon?

 My girl Leica as Marie Antoinette!  This was shoot was styled by Anne Bella and Shot by Kai Huang.  I heard that the chair was like a zillion pesos!  I love Leica's McQueen boots!

My girl Leica as Marie Antoinette! This shoot was styled by Anne Bella and shot by Kai Huang. I heard that the chair was like a zillion pesos! I love Leica's McQueen boots!

 The Last photo is from the movie the Last emperor modeled by Kim Atienza, this was taken by Wesley Villarica and styled by Vanina Dy.

The last photo is from the movie "The Last Emperor," modeled by Kim Atienza. This was taken by Wesley Villarica and styled by Vanina Dy.

BIG HUGS!
RAJO!

No Reservations!

Sunday, February 22nd, 2009

Around November of last year, there was a huge buzz going around the foodie circles that the famous chef/author and TV host Anthony Bourdain was in the Philippines.  I was so happy as this was the perfect opportunity for us to show this man and the rest of the world how fabulously good our food is!

I am happy to announce that his Philippine episode just came out this week with glowing reviews!  You can check it out on you tube, but it’s not very clear.  I have read his blog though, and he declared that we have…..THE BEST PORK DISH IN THE ENTIRE WORLD!  No other than CEBU’S LECHON! YAHOOOOOOO!!!!!    We Filipinos have always known that Cebu’s Lechon is the best in the land but in the world?  Who knew?  I am just so excited about this news!   This is a reason to celebrate!  I just may have lechon for dinner tonight!  LOL!
Big Hugs!
RAJO!

Velvet’s Oscars Party!

Saturday, February 21st, 2009

I am a HUGE OSCAR FAN!  I mean, it’s one of those rare occasions that I actually skip work, stay in bed  and have a full-on relationship with my TV!  LOL!  So you can all imagine my delight when I got an invitation to Velvet’s OSCARS party! I have been privy to the concept of the party and I loved the idea!  I am soooooooo excited to share with you the photos, which were AMAZING!  Before that though, I want to show you who was at the party because it was really a fun night!

 BFF'S!  For life!  Chris Lopez and Anton Barretto!

BFF'S! For life! Chris Lopez and Anton Barretto!

 the great minds behind the event!  Anton, Chris and Raul Manzano!  Excellent Job guys!

The great minds behind the event: Anton, Chris and Raul Manzano! Excellent job, guys!

 Me with the gang!  check out my super fierce LIECA in her Herve'!  HOMAYGASSS!

Me with the gang! check out my super fierce LEICA in her Herve! HOMAYGASSS!

I only know a few ladies who can get away with a dress like this and boy did Leica work it!  LOVE YOU TO BITS!

I only know a few ladies who can get away with a dress like this, and boy did Leica work it! LOVE YOU TO BITS!

 Sibling chic!!!  These two are the coolest brother and sister team I know!  Stacey and Junie Rodriquez!

Sibling chic!!! These two are the coolest brother and sister team I know! Stacey and Junie Rodriquez!

 GLAMOUR GIRLS!  Leah Puyat, Marissa Buenaventura and Angelette Calero in the house!

GLAMOUR GIRLS: Leah Puyat, Marissa Buenaventura and Angelette Calero in the house!

Leah Puyat was instrumental in organizing the photo shoots for the evening and I really think she was in her zone!  I mean the woman was BEAMING!  I love the fact that she is wearing her fathers suit that evening!  She showed me the jacket and the coolest lining!  This woman is so FUN!  I love her energy!  Love the fact that she is doing something that she really LOVES!  Good job girl!

Leah Puyat was instrumental in organizing the photo shoots for the evening, and I really think she was in her zone! I mean, the woman was BEAMING! I love the fact that she was wearing her father's suit that evening! She showed me the jacket and the coolest lining! This woman is so FUN! I love her energy! Love the fact that she is doing something that she really LOVES! Good job, girl!

 Mrs Fe Rodriguez is one of the most stylish woman in the PLANET!!!  I loved her Celestina necklace that evening!  Here she is with Anton. ( Anton is going to kill me as I just overexposed him in my blog...LOL!)

Mrs. Fe Rodriguez is one of the most stylish women on the PLANET!!! I loved her Celestina necklace that evening! Here she is with Anton. ( Anton is going to kill me, as I just overexposed him on my blog...LOL!)

Cool couple!  My vote for the coolest cats that evening goes to Jay Sarmiento and Rex Atienza!

Cool couple: my vote for the coolest cats that evening goes to Jay Sarmiento and Rex Atienza!

The Divine miss Lee!  I want that purse!!!  For me that would be the best passport/travel document holder!!!

The Divine miss Lee! I want that purse!!! For me, that would be the best passport/travel document holder.

Fave couple of mine, Neil and Grace!

Fave couple of mine, Neil and Grace!

Looking younger and younger each time I see him is Raymund Isaac!  I think he has like a Dorian Grey portrait somewhere he does not AGE!

Looking younger and younger each time I see him is Raymund Isaac! I think he has like a Dorian Grey portrait somewhere. He does not AGE!

 Lovely Bride to be...Isabel Roces..who was RAVISHING that evening!

Lovely Bride-to-be...Isabel Roces..who was RAVISHING that evening!

The super beautiful and talented Sarah Meier!

The super beautiful and talented Sarah Meier!

 Divine and Nix strike a pose!

Divine and Nix strike a pose!

One of the most creative people I know: Melvin Mojica.

One of the most creative people I know: Melvin Mojica.

 Everyone is talking about....BB Gandanghari!  You have to love her!

Everyone is talking about....BB Gandanghari! You have to love her!

BB and Lotho were on the same wavelength that evening!!!

BB and Lotho were on the same wavelength that evening!

Everyone wanted to have a photo with Ms. BB!  I had the camera the entire time, sayang wala akong photo tuloy...next time.

Everyone wanted to have a photo with Ms. BB! I had the camera the entire time. Sayang wala akong photo tuloy...next time.

 It was wonderful to see Tita Diday that evening, she is the Mom of Anton.  It brought back so many good memories.

It was wonderful to see Tita Diday, the Mom of Anton, that evening. It brought back so many good memories.

BIG HUGS!
RAJO!

BB Makes us Proud!

Wednesday, February 18th, 2009

Bryan Boy makes me sooooooooooooo proud!  I  found out last night that he is in NYC for fashion week!  I also heard that he is doing a documentary for MARC JACOBS!   How awesome is that!?  I am soooooooooooooo happy for him!

It just proves to you that dreams do come true! I am sure that he will spill the beans on all the good things that is happening to him soon, but in the meantime, he is teasing us with these sweet photos from his blog. Proud of you Bryan!  GALING MO!!!

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I love the smile on his face in the photo with Marc Jacobs, for you can really feel that he is so KILIG!  I got so insanely JEALOUS when I saw his photo with Carine Roitfeld, (editor in chief of French Vogue). I mean, the woman is like a GODDESS to me!!!!   I can just see Bryan now, so happy and in his element!!!
See you all soon!

HUGS!

RAJO!

Love…MANDY!

Tuesday, February 17th, 2009

I love how when something in my mind translates seamlessly from thought, to paper, and to when the actual product comes alive.  It helps a great deal if the person you’re making the dress for is as flawless as Mandy Santos!  I mean you have to love this woman…she just ooozes style!  I mean, it’s effortless!  I am working on this dress that she will be wearing this weekend and I love the way it looks on her. It’s like a modern-day Glamazon!  LOL!

 I wanted something relaxed...Mandy is going to use it for a Boracay wedding.

I wanted something relaxed...Mandy is going to use it for a Boracay wedding.

 I wanted to play on suspension and knotting.  This were my rough sketches.

I wanted to play on suspension and knotting. This were my rough sketches.

 Then we fitted it on Mandy!  I was shrieking with delight!

Then we fitted it on Mandy! I was shrieking with delight!

 She looks AMAZING!

She looks AMAZING!

 The back detail that I need to adjust to make it a wee bit lower.

The back detail that I need to adjust to make it a wee bit lower.

This really made my day!  Thanks Mandy!
HUGS!
RAJO!

Valentine Dim-sum!

Monday, February 16th, 2009

I am not a big fan of Valentine’s, never was and perhaps never will. I even had a F—K  Valentine’s party once!  LOL!  I think that we should show love everyday, not just express it more on that one day of the year.  Anyhoo…  I liked how I spent Valentine’s this year.  I had a fabulous Dim-sum brunch!!!

I was invited by my friend Eddie Fung (who I met 4 years ago) for brunch.  I really like Eddie, as he is so sweet and very chic!  In the lunch were the same cast in the gay summit in Bangkok.  LOL!  (Do you remember that?  We had tea and cake in this Secret Garden called Agalico?)

 Eddie c.s. Fung!  Thank you for the Valentine's brunch!

Eddie c.s. Fung! Thank you for the Valentine's brunch!

 The gang is all here, Foster, Bob, Roj and Ziggy!

The gang is all here: Foster, Bob, Roj and Ziggy!

We all were picked up by Eddie and brought over to his family’s clubhouse.  Eddie’s Mummy was there and she was lovely!  I had quite a chuckle because she was so the typical Chinese Mom!  I mean, she just kept on feeding us and doting on all of us!  She even had a ready iPhone charger in her purse if we needed it!  LOL!

 Look at all that  food!  It was all soooooo good!

Look at all that food! It was all soooooo good!

 Posing with Mrs. Fung and her Valentine Posse!

Posing with Mrs. Fung and her Valentine Posse!

After brunch, we all did what we do best in Hong Kong……SHOP!  This town is built for that, and we did a 6-hour shopping marathon!  A really good way to burn the carbs (NOT!) and the credit cards!

A rest from all the shopping!

A rest from all the shopping!

I hope your V-day was as fun!
BIg hugs!
RAJO!