WORLD PREMIERE: That Striped Dress / PINAY CURVIES EVENT: #StartingOverAgain Movie Date / Erzullie's Showroom-warming Party

What an action-packed weekend! I started the day with this much-awaited movie date with beautiful strangers Avon and Miss Annie and long-time sister in fashion, Loren. Sadly, my partner Mitch can't make it due to a family affair in Batangas. So I felt the pressure to be doubly madahldahl to compensate for her absence. 

Did I succeed? As always, I need not to fret. Any Pinay Curvies gathering always felt like a reunion of sort; the moment we strangers recognized one another, we instantly hit it off. In fact, I was quick to initiate a bet: "Kung sinong unang iiyak while watching Starting Over Again..." I didn't get to finish my sentence as they admitted they're crybabies just like me. But I think I was the first to sniff and wipe my eyes dry. How competitive, huh?

"Lumaklak kami ng realidad" and discussed how we can relate...over food!

Since we can all relate to film, we decided to talk about this reel-life sob story and our own real-life (un)love stories! Inasmuch as I would like to share our golden realizations, I doubt they'll allow me. So whatever revelations that transpired that afternoon in Glorietta 5, stays there! I can talk about mine, but that probably calls for a separate blog entry. Ha!

Something sweet and colorful from the generous Miss Annie!

To our surprise, Miss Annie (she used to sell plus size clothes on eBay way back in 2005! Isa syang institusyon!) gifted us with jelly beans! It was an astounding sight as I've been wondering where I can find Mason jars here in the Philippines. Plus, I discovered that Avon happens to be a Caviteña, too! And she's met Loren in one of the many go-sees before. All together now ---♫♪♪ it's a small world after all! ♪♫♫

Class picture!

What I enjoyed about this meet-up? We were already making plans on our next chikahan even before we decided to part ways. Actually, Avon and Miss Annie would like to continue the gabfest over coffee, but Loren and I had to decline due to another event we can't afford to miss. Off to Pasig we went!

Finding Erzullie's showroom wasn't hard at all. All we had to do was follow the contagious gales of laughter from the hallway and we're home. As always, it was a fun-filled evening with these body-positive ladies!

Meet the Erzullie Icons we got to hang out with: Jayrea, Loren and Kat

Painting the showroom's wall with love, love, love!

***

For this month's Pinay Curvies Swag challenge, I intended to bring out this striped dress from my Orocan baul (my mum took it upon herself to re-arrange my clothes again depending on frequent usage) and pair it with my ankle boots that I world premiered back in high school (circa 1995-1999). Why this dress? Well, you've heard me acknowledge hand-me-downs in my prior posts, so why not talk about a somewhat forgotten ukay ukay find? 

Unfortunately, I was unable to unearth the mentioned boots which kinda broke my heart since I wore them for the Christmas station ID shoot a couple of months ago. Where did they go? They can't possibly walk out on me, right? As a result, I was unable to join the blog link-up. Sighs. But, hey, make sure to check out these outfits with interesting back stories from Nina, Katee, Keevee and Caroline!

Anyway, I like how this cottony, casual fabric blended well with the sheer fabric that covered my chest and arms. Its contrast pretty much reminded me of this see-through miniskirt... or whatever's the proper way to describe it. How about you, do you think these white flats looked better than the black ankle boots for this striped dress? Let me know what you think. 

Erzullie Icon...NOT!

Outfit of the Day:

Striped dress from ukay ukay

White lacey flats from Solemate

Moonstone crystals from Crystal Empress

WORLD PREMIERE: That 1920s Look / Pinay Curvies Swag Challenge: Little Black Dress

How time flies! Once upon a time, I was just co-hosting my favorite twins' 7th birthday. Imagine my shock after I viewed this save-the-date for their 18th natal return! If I may quote a renowned commercial, these babies are now ladies! Ladies who, to be specific, wanted their guests to channel the characters from the film The Great Gatsby! I was initially intimidated by the idea, but I later on realized it was a cute excuse to keep a fringed frock in my closet. Wee!

This obsession, however, led me nowhere. This fringe dress from Suiteblanco won't fit and, worse, PlumpClothing's quote was beyond my budget. Thanks to this month's Pinay Curvies Swag challenge, I got reminded of that sexy black dress I bought from an ukay ukay shop recently. Then I almost changed my mind when I saw how the invitation practically presented my desired look on that night. Should I go back to my plan to look for a fringed frock? Somebody made me realize I can stick to the plain black dress and rummage for flashy accessories instead. Good point!

Ate Lorna & the adorable twins Bea & Tin Tin! 

Take a closer look at my fascinator!

Of course, it ain't me if there's no hilarious outfit moment to report. Before the party started, I realized my smart phone doesn't recognize my gloved fingers. There were moments I had to take off my right glove to take photos properly...so I dread to see the official photos, particularly if they reveal this "continuity" mishap. I recall posing next to Tito Eddie, the debutantes' father, and concealing my gloved forearm behind him. I hope it worked. Haha!

"The Governess"

A guy friend from college messaged his appreciation when I made the above photo (without the leg part) my profile picture on Facebook. According to him, I give off an impression that I know exactly what would drive men nuts. Aaand behind that mysterious smile and pa-demure arm pose lies this strong desire to be sexually dominant. Thus, he dubbed me "The Governess". Gasp!

As usual, he shared stuff about history I had no clue about. Some affluent women back in the days used to hire photographers in secret to have them captured looking fab and seductive. Since it was taboo back then, it was a secret fantasy to pose like THAT and to be perceived desirable in bed in spite of their prim and proper image. Wow.

Ok, before we all get too distracted, let's go back to the outfit. Haha! It's not really my style to pile up on accessories, but I contradicted myself this time to comply to the 1920s theme. Normally, I go for statement outfit (the slit would do, in this case) and dangling earrings or bracelet. Boring, I know. 

But I'm not saying I didn't enjoy dressing up that night. It was cool to feel like British royalty with my fascinator, pearl necklaces and white gloves. I just hope I can get to wear them again. Like, in the office! Why not?

Outfit of the Day:

Little black dress from ukay ukay (P120)

Flashy fascinator from Carolina's, Glorietta (P500)

Pearl earrings from Carolina's, Glorietta (P90 each)

White gloves from Buttons & Wrap, SM Makati (P250)

Snakeskin clutch bag from Suiteblanco (gift)

Bronze platforms from Payless (forgot how much)

***

There's no way I will conclude this entry without gushing about my favorite twins. I saw them evolve from carefree little girls into stylish, studious young women. Too bad I don't have throwback photos to support that statement. I used to know who's who, simply because Tin Tin was chubbier and more talkative.

Fast forward today, I can hardly tell them apart anymore! They've grown figure-conscious, I see, and I trust they're doing it the right way since Bea is pursuing Nursing while Tin Tin is taking up Physical Therapy. I pray they believe in their own beauty and NOT fall slave the society's standards of beauty and sexy. 

In conclusion, I had a grand time! I luuuurve their 1920s outfits and I feel happy that there was so much familial love in the air. I feel so grateful to be invited to witness all that. Again, happy, happy birthday, Bea and Tin Tin! 

#BeaTinXVIII

Photos by DJ San Jose.

Pinay Curvies Swag Challenge: Denim Jeans

This month's challenge is probably the easiest one to date. However, if you've been visiting this side of the world wide web, you'd notice that denim jeans are my least favorite. I prefer skirts and shorts since they are presko to be in, especially during that time of the month. Aside from that, denims take up too much space in my traveling bag. I'm no light traveler, but leaving my jeans at home is my usual approach to keep things lighter. 

Yes, I'm rarely in jeans that my colleagues usually do a double-take when they see me wearing one. And then they'll announce to the entire office: "Himala! Naka-jeans si Lorna!"

That being said, it was an easy decision as to which pair of jeans to show you. I only have 2 pairs in my closet when Mitch decided we'll go for denims (yeah, I went looking for new pairs in an ukay ukay shop recently) and only 1 of them is bloggable enough. Haha!

When I was still in college (1999-2002), I remember being a fan of jeans in dark wash. When I became a working girl (2003-2004), I gravitated towards beige hipster or low-rise jeans. When I juggled graduate school, graveyard shift and online business (2005-2008), I tend to don denim capri pants. And I want them wider from the knees downwards (how 70's!). When skinny jeans (2008?), jeggings (2010?), printed denims (2011?), colored denims (2011?) and other trends took center stage, I was already reduced to a mere spectator.

Last year, my colleagues and I went on ukay ukay shopping in Ortigas. I was already satisfied with my finds, but they won't quit trying on branded jeans after jeans. So I got intrigued and they found this drop waist boot cut jeans from Giordano for me. The moment I saw my reflection in the mirror, I got convinced it was meant for me. It's a nice deviation from my usual dark and flare denims! And it's cheeeeap! (I completely forgot how much, though).

Ube macapuno!

Outfit of the Day:

Boho blouse from ukay ukay

Giordano denim jeans from ukay ukay

Mum's big bag

Lacey flats from SM Parisian

P.S. I met my family after work and my brother Lec was surprised to see me in jeans. Perhaps I should take heed to Ehms and Fao to wear jeans more often. According to them, jeans make me look taller. Hmmm...

Photos by Bendell Timtim.

Pinay Curvies Swag Challenge: Pinay Style Icon

Once upon a time (I'm guessing 2007 or 2008), I decided to wear my latest ukay ukay purchase for the first day of second semester in graduate school. I don't recall getting any manic reactions for it. After class, I dashed to the call center I was employed at the time for another episode of graveyard stress. To my surprise, my peers greeted me with whoas and double-takes. They find my striped pants too...loose and ethnic. And so some of them started calling me Grace Nono. 

I have great respect for this woman. I'd say she's known for her musicality more than her fashion statement, more than anything. And I was actually flattered to be compared to her, if only for what I was wearing that evening. So for this month's Pinay Curvies Swag challenge, I decided to rummage for this particular article of clothing and show my constant need for comfort and bright colors. As you can probably tell here and there, I luuuurve the laidback and ethnic look! Now watch me channel Grace Nono below.

Tight top, loose silhouettes & barefoot

Accessorize!

Outfit of the Day:

Black camise (nope, it's not a tank top) from Chubbly

Wide belt from Forever 21

Striped pants from ukay ukay

Wooden choker from a shop in Camiguin

Yakan earrings from a shop in Basilan

Bracelet made by Mangyan in Mindoro

Anklet

NOTE: Yakan is the indigenous group in Basilan; Mangyan in Mindoro

Photos by Kuya Jay Arcenal

Pinay Curvies Swag Challenge: Boots Up!

Even before Mitch and I finally agreed on the Pinay Curvies Swag challenge this month, I was already developing an obsession on boots, particularly this kind of rain boots. With the bipolar weather lately, it was just right to invest in such pair. Besides, the last time I wore boots was back in high school. [Aside from Citizen Army Training (CAT) boots, of course!] This recollection prompted me to ask my mother two weeks ago if my brown mid-calf and black ankle boots were still alive. To my surprise, she confirmed they're gathering dust in our shoe cabinet. Unbelievable, I have instant footwear for the boots-up challenge!

Coincidentally, I will meet the Puff Mafia again that coming weekend for some archery adventure. What an excellent opportunity to channel my inner Yellow 4 Katniss Everdeen. Chos! 

Outfit Of The Day

T-shirt from Penshoppe (my brother's. Now loose in the chest area hahaha)

Leggings (my mum's)

Recycled leather band from Clinton Aniversario

My old mid-calf boots (Papa's pasalubong eons ago)

***

Among the members of the Fellowship of the Ring, I can easily say that Legolas had me at hello. He's a charmer and his flying arrows had a lot to do with it. I've always wanted to give archery a try back in college. So when the girls told me they'll go for it, they didn't have to ask me again if I'm interested. It's a big YES!

Katniss Everdeen is in the house!

They call me "the neighbor" and "the long ranger"

It wasn't easy as it looks. We had to get our stance right and aim for the target. In an hour, I had my share of going beyond 18 meters (Naks, pang-long range ako!), unintentionally vandalizing somebody else's target (It's your friendly neighbor asking for your wi-fi password!) and, worse, making the arrow turn to me! Scary, right?

Bull's eye...NOT!

If you're also interested to give it a try, visit Gandiva Archery for more details. The great news is, their cafe serves vegetarian food! 

Photos from DJ San Jose & Sheila del Mundo.

Pinay Curvies Swag Challenge: All White! / WORLD PREMIERE: That White Fringe Top, White Denim Miniskirt and White Lace Flats

Once upon a time, my best friend Djoanna suddenly blurted out, "Para kang si Carrie Bradshaw!" I was completely stunned; it was enough to make me cease eating. I'm the only living female who didn't follow the series Sex and The City (I only got to watch about 3 episodes, AFTER the show was canceled) but I've heard how her character was praised for being a fashion chameleon. Towering shoes, flower pins, big curls, everything! Where did that comment come from? To answer my questioning eyes, Djoanna pointed her finger to the huge stain on my white shirt and proceeded to explain how Carrie Bradshaw loathes white outfits. She's too clumsy to remain clean. And I responded with a huge "Ooooooh!"

When Mitch decided we'll go with All White for our first blog link-up challenge, I was immediately worried how I'll pull it off. Aside from being too malikot, my closet is mainly composed of colorful, summery stuff and my favorite neutrals are black and grey. That probably explains why I ended up making white purchases during the recently concluded Fierce+Flaunt Plus Size Shopping Event. When I got home, I realized how I've been neglecting this white micro miniskirt I got from ward88 during the swap meet. It's the perfect opportunity to take it out! Now where to look for white sandals to go with it? I've wanted something like this in white, but I was unable to find it. Then one fine Sunday, my shoes took me to a familiar territory for another success story. All set? Not yet! I was in the mood for accessories! I found a hippie headband in Landmark and bought matching moonstone bracelets and earrings from Crystal Empress (I heard moonstone crystals can help insomniacs like me. Plus, it can help regulate menstrual cycle, among others!). 

White on white!

This photo is inspired by too many when-are-you-getting-married inquiries lately!

My casual approach to all-white

Closer look

I can imagine wearing this ensemble when I'm on travel, say, in a beach resort. I admit I don't have the courage to wear that micro miniskirt on its own. As a commuter, I could use leggings to go with it. I'm sure most of you will agree with me. Haha!

Outfit of the Day:

Sando with fringe from Chubbly

Micro miniskirt from ward88

Lacey flats from SM Parisian

Hippie headband from Landmark Makati

Moonstone crystals from Crystal Empress

***

Now allow me to conclude this entry with proper acknowledgements. See, this is my first serious pictorial for a blog entry. With my best friend DJ and her college friends (they all took up Film), no less! Back in 2001, I used to tag along in their shoots even non-school-related gatherings that they eventually accepted me in their gang (right, guys?). I feel so honoured to be invited for their June get-together to celebrate DJ's birthday. 

I'm super grateful we were able to squeeze in time for a pictorial between burger party, videoke night and supposed World War Z date. And the least that I can do is to introduce my supportive crew. 

Meet the Puff Mafia!

BIG thank you!