Style and Soul

When I was younger, I really thought I was going to be a news anchor, reporter or a broadcast journalist right after college. Everything I imagined that I would be five years ago didn't turn out to be who I am now five years after.

Let me tell you, even if this has been my case, I'm glad I didn't become what I wanted to be. Right now, I'm thankful for turning into someone I'm meant to be (I really hope so, haha). 

Well I guess I'm probably not old enough or experienced enough to say this (wait I'm just in my early 20s, haha!) but with everything that has happened to me so far, I've come to realize that the most important thing in life is not necessarily what you want. Most of the time, the things that make you happy are the ones that are truly essential.

Hello Anonymous! I would've replied to your comment through the comment box but sadly, due to the length of my reply, I couldn't post it there and so, I'm doing it here.

P.S. I'll also take the opportunity to insert some outfit photos, just to minimize my backlogs, haha.

Let me start with your “If you really want to change, JUST DO IT” line. YOU DON’T KNOW ME -- AT ALL. You don’t know what I’ve done to change and what I’m still doing in my life to keep on changing. ALL OF US (including you) have something in us that we want to change, fix or improve. I'd like to ask you this, nakakasama mo ba ko araw-araw para malaman mo kung nagbago nga ba ako? HINDI. The people who truly know me are the ONLY ones who can "genuinely" tell me what changed or what hasn't and what's left for me to do.

The Topic of People Helping and "Announcing" It in Public 

If you think my first 3 paragraphs are “blah” and annoying, that’s okay. I get you, not everyone’s going to react positively to everything I say. Often, I also find myself really irritated by some people (not all) who keep on posting their charity works online because I also feel like all of those were empty “blahs.” As for me, I’d like to think I wrote those paragraphs with a purpose in mind.  We’ll get to that later. :)

You know, you’re right. In my head, those kind of people (again not all) are “probably” bragging (I left a little room for benefit of the doubt though). I share the same sentiment with Patty Laurel and Ms. Cecile (Chuvaness) because I believe people don’t need to tell other people that they’re helping. Let other people talk about your “good works” or let them find out through some other means but you don’t say (for example) “I just gave alms to a beggar on the way home and it felt good.” Or “Saw an old lady and helped her climb the stairs.” Why even say or post about it? So people will compliment how nice you are to do that? So you will “inspire” other people to do the same? If that’s the case, then you’re just helping for those wrong purposes then. So why do you REALLY help? Is it to help for the sake of helping or just so people will think you are encouraging and inspiring? The way I see things, “helping” is not about feeling good about yourself. It is about helping those in need EVEN IF no one’s looking or no one knows you did it.   

Sheer long robe c/o Closet Chic | Platforms Gold Dot | Snakeskin bag c/o SM Parisian

One of the reasons why I'm not that crazy with the neon trend is because I have dark skin. It's pretty evident in this photo how this neon tank top that I'm wearing made me look even darker than my actual skin color. Before any of you come up with a judgment, let me clarify, I'm a proud morena and I love my complexion. It's just that, neon is not the most flattering color for my kind of skin and this is why girls like us should keep in mind the colors that would best compliment our skin tone like pastel shades or warm hues. 

Welcome to the work force.

One of the most obvious signs that you have grown up is when you find a third clothing classification in your closet that's dedicated for work when you finally get a job after graduation. Whether you are an intern, a starting professional or simply a freelancer, you would need to start working on your business chic wardrobe essentials.
For freelancers who don't really work in an office (like me), there's an assumption that there's no actual need for office-appropriate outfits. Contrary to such presumptions, people who work for freelance always jump from one project to another. This just means that there will always be that first formal meeting with a possible employer where you just have to make that best first impression.

In every meeting where you need to present yourself, whether it is a job interview, an idea pitch, or a discussion of a possible collaboration or project; there's no getting around it. You will be definitely judged, at least partially, by the way you look.

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 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).

Some people used to think that my boyfriend and I are such an unlikely pair. But despite all our differences, I can't ask for anything more because I already have someone I love who's always been caring, supportive, loving, faithful, smart, hilarious and interesting. I feel sooo blessed!

On our 40th month, JR and I went on a date at Stacy's in Capitol Hills, QC. I instantly fell in love with  this quaint, vintage-inspired restaurant after discovering it on Gela's blog. The best thing about it is that, you get to enjoy an all-day breakfast, home-cooked comfort food goodness in this must-try dining destination. 

For this date, I wanted to be more feminine so I decide to go with this button-up top with fancy lace details courtesy of Closet Chic and my floral 50s-inspired high-waist full skirt. For a modern twist, I paired it with my F-STOP lego heels instead of the usual baby doll shoes or pumps.

The interior is quite charming in delightful shades of pastel colors with quirky decorations. It may be too dainty for some male customers but it's homey ambiance and not to mention, deliciously filling meals, will definitely win them over!

Smiling faces will greet you once you enter Stacy's. And even before you receive your order, first-timers (like us) will be surprised with free popcorn, floral mallows and strawberry pretzels! 

The biggest surprise for me was the French Connection. At first, I didn't like the idea of a french toast with cream cheese and ham to be dipped in strawberry jam. I was really puzzled at how it would taste like. But seriously, you have to try it! The flavors all came together in a delightful way. 

When we were asked to sign a comment card for comments and suggestions, we realized that Stacy's is just missing two more things and it would be the perfect all-day breakfast resto - pancakes and waffles!

After this sweet shabby-chic dinner, I can't wait to get back at Stacy's, hopefully on a day time so I could take more lovely photos. I also plan to bring in my friends because I'm very sure they'd love it and you would too!

P.S. To my loving boyfriend who always reads my blog, I love you and between you and me, I'm still the luckier one. 

Bloggers United has been keeping me the busiest these days. Although I still have a couple of other projects on the side, Bloggers United is on my top, urgent list of things to focus on. It's only a few days away before the event and we're scrambling to find more sponsors (apart from what we already have) because we are really trying to look for more funds so we could give more to our chosen charity, GMA Kapuso Foundation.

I'm meeting brands and companies (with Aisa and Ana) here and there and how I wish I could blog about it all. But for this entry, we had another appointment with our event partner Muliply Philippines to further discuss and finalize the details of our partnership. Multiply has been really, really supportive of bloggers nowadays and we're so thankful because having them on board for this event is such a blessing! 

And so for this, I've put on another top courtesy of Closet Chic, some cool tie-up jeans and cut-out heels sponsored by Trunkshow. For three blog entries in a row, I've been advertising and wearing my Closet Chic items so you guys would be familiar with the brand. My sister's friend owns it and it would really mean a lot to both of them if I help in my own way of promoting it.

Some people find it ironic that I strongly promote other online shops when in fact, I have an online fashion boutique as well. You know, I believe competition shouldn't be about pulling others down. Do you remember buzz about an online shop owner that was caught (screen capped) bashing another online shop owned by a very famous blogger and brand ambassador? That was really disappointing and, well... sad to look at. And although everyone has moved passed it and the issue is over, it is also an example where people should learn from because it only shows that unhealthy competition really backfires. 

I created my Shop Support segment (a year ago) simply because I know how it feels (I've been there) to have a hard time in marketing and promotions during the time when F-STOP (Fashion Stop) was merely starting from scratch and I didn't know anyone to help me out. What the segment really aims is for me to help other online shops as part of my advocacy to a healthy competition and fellowship in the online selling industry. And hopefully, get most of you guys (fellow online sellers) to do the same!

In line with this "fellowship" that I'm talking about, I'm calling all multiply sellers and shoppers! Let's all get together and go the the Multiply Shopping Party! When we went to Multiply's head quarters last Monday for the meeting, I also had the chance to grab an invite. The Bloggers United team will be there for sure and we will get to see their other amazing guests! Don't miss it! See you everyone!

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