Erzullie's First Look: Holiday 2012

A good start like this truly deserves a repeat. Needless to say, I was bursting with anticipation upon receiving the previte for the new collection's launch. I immediately forwarded the email to my long-time-no-see chum Rush and never-met-before soul sistahs Mitch and Leslie and crossed my fingers that they'll be available to attend, too. Since I was unable to make new friends last time, I was determined to chat with the fierce and fun femmes during and possibly after the gathering.

The designers Aries de Guzman and Berna Cuevas were portraits of pride and gratitude as they welcomed us guests that rainy Saturday evening. Aside from Berna who presented her designs this season, Krave Minerale Cosmeceuticals and Butter's Closet were also there to promote their merchandise. Truly an open invitation for retail therapy!

Berna talks about her designs

Shopping starts NOW!

Erzullie Icon and that evening's host, Loren Mae Monares, and the cool stuff for sale*

That's me in action! 

I've mentioned about wanting my own peplum soon in this wishlist in my fanpage (Click it! Like it!) and I've been toying with the idea of having my own mullet skirt. Imagine my delight to see that Berna came up with such for this season!

Mia (Mitch's sister) tried the dark mullet skirt; I tried the lighter counterpart
Mia figured out it could also work as an asymmetrical skirt!

Look at how their peplum skirt gave us hips!

I was momentarily tempted to take home the mullet skirt, but like I mentioned in this entry, I should really turn down purple items. Also, I prefer something that is longer in the back. Something that would make me feel as if I were wearing a traje de boda. CHOS! As for the peplum, I'd really like a full dress and I'd really swoon if it were in neon pink or custard green or electric blue. Thankfully, Berna and Aries were receptive to my feedback.

Organic personal care from Krave and kikay items from Butter's Closet*

Guess who took home that night cream and ombré-dyed tassel earrings?

Aside from shopping spree, it was also about establishing bonds. It was my first time to meet Loren in the flesh. She was as bubbly and confident as I imagined. Then there's Azza who happened to be a make-up artist and pole dancer. She was encouraging me to take my daydreams to the next level. Aaaaaand there's Mitch whom I initially met through blog-hopping. I felt this rush of pride when other plus size women approached her to gush about her curls and dub her as Gabi Fresh. We were each other's "fans" and, after that night, we became supporters.

Chikahan with Berna and Mitch

L-R: Moi, blogger Monica, Berna and Mitch

With Aries de Guzman

Photo opp with Christine from Krave Minerals and sisters Maddy and Manelle of Butter’s Closet

Seksi backs!

Concluding the night with Mitch

My outfit? Oh, you've seen that before. Remember how I donned this as a kaftan in Zamboanga? I just added a wide belt to create curves, black wedges and red tote bag to complete the look. Yay or nay?

OoTD:

Black dress from ukay ukay

Big black belt from Forever 21

Black wedges from VNC

Dangling earrings from a bazaar

Red tote bag (gift)

* - Photos from Loren

The rest were photos by Mitch Leus. Check out her album here and her blog entry about this event here.
Additional effects by Winifred Layug