WORLD PREMIERE: That Black Kaftan

I know, kaftans are supposed to be light in color and fabric, but I ran out of options when my neon+neutral dress-cum-coverup got quite messy after our difficult descent to the Merloquet Falls and the equally action-packed ascend back and the unexpected marang par-tey in between. This is one of those rare moments when recycling stuff is far from recommended. Either that or I'm being too maarte again, yes?

The answer to that question won't be settled here. So, let me just show you how this black, long-sleeved dress looked like a strange choice against the sunny backdrops in Zamboanga. Yes, the adventures in the batcave, Sta. Cruz Island and the nearby sandbar deserve separate entries! Just you wait.

Close-up of the neckline and cuff details

I admit this ukay ukay purchase felt too warm under the bright sun, but I felt somewhat justified knowing that Dolphy, the King of Comedy, was being laid to eternal rest that Sunday. Coincidentally, our guide, Kuya Richard, took us to the old graveyard of our Badjao brothers and sisters near the island. I suddenly felt...appropriately dressed.

Aaaaand I'm gonna conclude this pointless blog entry with back-to-back jump shots taken in the pinkish-white shores of Sta. Cruz Island.

Photos from Claire Madarang, Abby Mayuga and Phyll Miram.

WORLD PREMIERE: That Floral Kaftan

Somebody went shopping for resort wear in preparation for the -ber months. If you just tuned in, please be aware that this birthday girl tends to welcome her natal return all month long and, if her time and budget permit, spends it in close proximity to the soothing shores. This year, I got invited to attend Coco Beach Island Resort's 25th anniversary. Sweet November, it is!

As always, the much-deserved me-time begins at the beach. I decided to don my recent ukay ukay purchase as a cover-up for my swimwear. Floral designs don't usually get my attention, but I appreciate this green number for its light fabric and overall appeal. Very perfect for summer! My friend MJ was quick to remind me that I may also use in urban setting; just wear square pants with it and I'm ready to waltz away. I don't see it that way, but I'll probably give it a try in the future.

Little Ms. Sunshine!


Birthday wish: this hammock!

So I took this kaftan off, went for a swim and went sunbathing by the shores. My friend Joey decided to go swimming in the pool instead and we agreed to reunite later. When I retraced my steps to the main pool area, the boys insisted I get wet in the pool, too. They attempted to throw me to the pool and failed twice. As they say, three is a charm.

Doc and TJ in their initial attempt!




Uhm, can you please give me a moment to take off my kaftan?


Yes, it took 5 fit men to lift me up!


Nooooo!


Me and my wet kaftan!

Photos by Joey Saunar.