Style and Soul

I missed the last day and finale of the recent Philippine Fashion Week because I had a hosting job for Accessorize's All About Bags Event in partnership with Bloggers United. If only I can split myself in two, I would love to attend both events but work has to always come first (of course!). 

A few days ago, I've put up an announcement promoting Accessorize's All About Bags Sale and this intimate bloggers acquaintance party is the best kick off for the brand's month-long promo. For the record, this is not an "End of Season" type of sale wherein you'd get all the out-of-trend styles and designs. I know for a fact that this is definitely a treat because you may get as much as 50% off on new arrivals as well! This is Accessorize's way of thanking all of its shoppers who have showed tremendous support for the brand for the past three years.

For the event, I decided to put on something really feminine and dainty, which is appropriate to Accessorize's branding. If you regularly read this blog, you'd probably notice by now that I love wearing "something on something" ensembles like print on print, stripes on stripes, crochet on crochet, lace on lace and so on and so forth. 

That Sunday, I was dressed in a floral on floral (on polka, on animal print... haha) outfit which sort of strays away from my usual edgy style. I just hope the mix of prints, in addition of polka dots and zebra print, doesn't turn you off, haha. I wore everything on purpose because I wanted to showcase some gifted items from generous brands.

First stop: Closet Chic's zebra print sling bag. I'm not quite sure if you've noticed but I've been wearing Closet Chic in a lot of my outfit posts (here, here, here, here and here) because the brand has been very kind in sponsoring me with a lot of items. I can't thank Honey (the owner) enough for believing in my advertising skillzz, hahaha. Closet Chic doesn't only have affordable clothes (promise, no bullsh*t) ranging from Php 180 - Php 300+, it also has trendy bags like this. Just to prove you I'm not kidding, check out her online store and see for yourself.

Second stop: Shoe Etiquette's floral wedges. These shoes, along with my brown boots, were given by Ate Denise when she went here in Manila in preparation of her son's birthday plus a sudden dinner with blogger friends. Being a seller of shoes myself, doesn't stop me from promoting her online store. I really believe in healthy and friendly competition because everyone is doing their best to make a living here. So no conflict for me, haha! Plus, her shoe designs are different from what I sell and yet all are gorgeous as well! If I'm not heavily saving up, I'd buy a lot from her too!

Third stop: Accessorize necklace and bracelets. Of course, as the host of the event, I get to have these accessories for myself. I love my job, hahaha! Even though I'm more on the tough aesthetic, I still adore the brand's girly accessory line. They have pieces that I genuinely want for myself. Plus, having some trinkets of my own from the brand, I know their items don't just look pretty. They last long too and doesn't get worn out so easily. Aren't these cute?

Fourth stop: Something invisible from Prestige Brands Phils... my perfume! A few weeks ago, I got a bottle of Acqua Colonia fragrance which I will tell you more about, in my following posts. It was my first time to use it in this event and I got a lot of inquiries and compliments from fellow bloggers about this scent! It's more on the powdery side and so it's perfect for my all-floral blooming outfit.

So there, even though it's obvious that some of my items are sponsored, everything that I'm saying isn't contrived. When I say I like the items, I really do. It's not just a blab of praises just to get more items in the future. It's a personal opinion. And because it's personal, I deserve to be honest to myself at the very least. 

Will tell you more about the All About Bags Event when I get copies of the photos from the official photographer. The downside of being an events host is having... oh well, zero photos, haha! I'm so used to taking my blog photos kasi, haha!

My previous post (which was about some practical commuting-in-style tips) was well-received by a lot of readers and it somehow gave me the urge to either write the second half of it right away, or keep on publishing self-help entries whenever I can. I've been really trying to keep my blog updated even though I only do this as a hobby (sort-of-but-not-quite-anymore). It's because, the encouraging feedback that I get from other people (from you!) is fuel for me to continue with whatever it is that I'm doing here.

I used to be unsure about who I'm writing for. All I know is I've always wanted to be able to relate to someone like me, a budget fashionista who never lets any limitation get in the way of her passion for style an success. Thank you guys! I find it so sweet of you to comment, tweet and e-mail me about how much my Commuting In Style entry helped you a lot. Really, super aaww talaga!

Of course, as a fashionista commuter, I'm not always in bongga chic outfits. Its very helpful for me to know when to dress down naman. Good thing about my dress down days is that I have a couple of basics in my closet (should buy more actually!) and one of my favorites is this Giordano Lion Polo from Lloyda (Fashionista Fortune Cookie) who also works for the brand.

Lion Polo c/o Giordano | Pants Thrifted | Boots c/o Shoe Etiquette

I love red striped back of Giordano Lion Polo's collar

Comfy boots from Shoe Etiquette

I've worn this polo shirt so many times already during my errands, casual meetings and lazy days. However, it never graced my blog yet because it's either I forget to take photos or I'm too haggard to take an outfit shot na! Buti nalang I had a chill meeting over dinner with my production teammates Kim and Ilsa for The Mutual. THE MUTUAL is a production team founded by Kim, Ilsa and me. After college, all of us have been working freelance and we shared our rakets (commissioned projects) together especially when it entails film and video production.

Now, we finally decided to stop working as individuals who "contact friends that will tag along in each of our projects." Now, we concentrate on working as one team who offers clients a full production team package. Hire us for your shoot or events (coverage) and we will take care of everything - from organizing the shoot, to the equipment to use, the skills and talent on photography and videography, creative direction, concept, editing, sound and musical scoring.

For this group, what I bring to the table is my experience in marketing communication, production managment and  production design. Other than that, I also do styling, second/third unit photography and videography. Ilsa and Kim do best at photography, videography and editing. Meanwhile, conceptualization and creative direction are being handled by the three of us as well. You might think it's just the tree of us, but actually (as a team) we're not alone in this because depending on how big the project is, we also have other people on board who specialize in musical scoring, graphics, lighting design etc.

Literally, it's a package. You won't have to worry and outsource a different photographer, a different videographer, a separate editor and stylist and even production manager because we will take care of that  here in THE MUTUAL. The only thing you should think about is your budget. We don't price ourselves too low because we will give you a quality output. I can assure you though that the price is never too high because our rates would always tailor-fit your needs and budget.

Two of my readers have sent me an e-mail inquiring about our package and prices for their upcoming debuts and parties after seeing this viral video of Claire Unabia of America's Next Top Model (BTS of her Manila Bulletin shoot styled by Aisa Ipac & Jear De Mccuttac). I feel really great about this and I hope you can support us and refer us to your family and friends! ^__^

P.S. For photography, film and video production services of The Mutual, contact me as of now melanie_entuna@yahoo.com. Visit our site (under construction), http://flavors.me/the_mutual.


Outfit photos by: Ilsa Malsi

My good friend and blog sister Aisa declared last October 18, 2011 as the National Day of Events for bloggers. Of course, that pronouncement was one of her many benta jokes. However, we (her fellow bloggers) couldn’t agree more. 

I’m not sure what was so special about that particular date but for some reason, it was the same day when the following events were scheduled: MTV Exit Press Conference, Canon Pixma Launch, Freeway X Manansala Special Tribute, Multiply Shopping Party and MEGA’s Fashion Crew Grand Finale Event.

It’s pretty practical to just choose one event among the bunch but on the contrary, it is ideal to attend everything on the list. I can picture you guys reading this and asking in your heads the big WHY with me throwing back a “WHY NOT?” at you.

But before I continue with what I have to say, (this is me having a disclaimer now, haha) you would probably judge that I’m such a hypocrite whenever I would go on and tell you about how tiring it is to be present to almost every event that I get invited to. Honestly, going to events (almost every day) really wears me out.

But being a freelancer, jumping from one project to another, my schedule is pretty much unpredictable because I don’t do an eight-hour routine job. My socially mobile nature subconsciously drives me to go whenever my planner tells me I can pretty much squeeze it in.

My income as a free agent depends on how many projects I book (some months doing so great, and some doing just okay) and gracing events gives me an advantage that helps me network, meet people and build contacts. Most importantly, I personally believe that attending (as long as I’m free) is a form of “courtesy” to the brands and PR agencies who have given my blog opportunities and exposure that I’m truly thankful for.

Taking into mind all these reasons, I knew that I couldn’t just choose one. And so, I went with the latter three. Realistically speaking, I’m not paid to go to any of these events and so, it was a practical move to keep myself busy with work during the day and have some fun later in the evening.

For this event-hoping night, I admit, I was pretty conscious of what my outfit would be. Being a “fashion blogger” there’s a certain pressure to keep up with what everyone would probably be wearing just so I would somehow “blend in” (to stand out is another option) in a sea of fasyon people.

Cardigan Vivienne Westwood | Bodycon dress Closet Chic | Boots Shoe Etiquette

But unlike a good number of fashion bloggers who can wear basically anything because they have their own cars, a fashionista commuter like me has always been in a constant struggle deciding on what I really want to wear without the fear of getting mugged in the (let’s be honest) not-so-safe streets of Manila.

It is indeed a tough act to juggle fashion, safety and comfort altogether. But I get by because I’ve been commuting all my life (mostly riding jeepneys, buses, trycicyles and trains) and it has opened my eyes to all the social realities out there.

1. Safety Always Comes FIRST. 

No matter where you’re going or what the occasion is, safety should always be your priority. You can’t always have someone else to accompany you and even riding a taxi doesn’t guarantee security.

When I pick out an item in my closet, I keep in mind my chances of attracting attention – good and bad. If possible, I prefer to remain unnoticed during my whole commuting period. My paranoia starts kicking in when people stare at me. There’s no way for me to know what each person is thinking. Who knows, I could be a target (yikes).

P.S. If it will be too dangerous for you to commute to an evening event, then don't go. I'm sure the person who invited you would understand. 

2. Never Forget Your Flats

No matter how comfortable you say your heels or wedges are, I strongly suggest you give your feet much love and wear flats first.

Commuting requires you to be quick on your feet. You need to be on the look out when you cross the streets and most of all, be alert for any danger. In my experience, heels can slow down your pace and can keep you distracted especially when you start to feel pain or when all you can think about is how to walk on them without slipping or falling flat on your face.

With a pair of comfy flats, you'll be able to walk so much faster and move with ease when you do long walks and climb the stairs (when crossing foot bridges or overpass). Just make sure these are the lightweight ones or the roll-in flats that come in a convenient packaging.

Thena killer boots courtesy of Shoe Etiqutte

3. Don't Get Your Bling On Yet

Fashion isn't worth any danger and so I try to maintain a really low profile bordering on wanting to be invisible when I commute. I pack all my accessories in a kit and wear them before I get to be seen in the event. 

Chunky necklaces, stack of bangles, statement rings - all these give your outfits that pow, umpf, whatever x-factor you call it. Wearing all these during travel will (let's face it) draw unnecessary attention. There will be a lot of avenues for you to express your creativity in your style. The jeepney, or the bus, the train, or the sidewalk is not the place for it though.

Printed bangle from Tomato, Tiger ring from SM Accessories, the rest from F-STOP

I would have to stop here for now and save a few other tips for another entry. After realizing how long this entry has been, I've convinced myself that some of you are either bored or tired by now reading this lengthy article. Anyway, the next set of tips and tricks, I can share some other time but these four are on the top of my list.

Don't forget the order: safety, comfort, fashion. Thinking of your safety is not an option; it's a mind-set. I couldn't stress that any further. Ever since my older brother (at the age of 22) who went to a party with his friends, unexpectedly passed away a few years ago, I've never ever stopped thinking about how precious (and short) life is. I would never risk it for anything, especially if it's just fashion. 

Stay safe everyone!

P.S. I used to hate writing tips about any topic because I feel like people might judge me, thinking I'm pretending to know better than any one else. I don't, really. But if there's anything you appreciate or dissent about my blog entries, feel free to comment or send me an e-mail (melanie_entuna@yahoo.com).

If you're a regular reader of my blog, then you probably know by now how frugal I am. I'm a certified Ms. Kuripot to the highest level. But like you, I know how much shopping can make us girls happy or even make our day or relieve our stresses. And if we can spare a couple of pesos for pretty finds, why not right?

And since we can't seem to have enough shoes, I'm introducing you to a new shoe store in the web. One of the bloggers that I really admire, Ate Denise of Denise Katipunera owns a massive collection of lovely shoes, most of them from the US. Because she gets a lot of inquiries about them, she decided to bring them here in the Philippines and sell them for affordable prices - all brand new and on hand from Shoe Etiquette.

You know I sell shoes too, but these are all from Korea. Some products from US can be a little pricey than those outsourced from Asia but you can definitely count more on the quality as well. She has two lovely designs released for the opening, Dahlia and Sandie and I hope you buy both. Haha. But if I have to pick just one, Dahlia had me at black, biased I know, hihi.

I remember when I first opened F-STOP, I got a bit depressed because there weren't a lot of customers and I didn't know anyone in the blogging world who can help me spread the word. My immediate friends and family were my first clients. But now that blogging has been very helpful in promoting businesses, it is my pleasure to help promote fellow online entrepreneurs. I know it wouldn't be a waste of your time visiting Shoe Etiquette here. And if you're broke or in a shopping ban, it's worth the lift and worth the savings.