WORLD PREMIERE: That Bejeweled Skull Blouse + Crumpled Leggings

How I love this skull blouse that I found inside my closet one weekend! Turns out my mum had a successful trip to an ukay ukay shop (something she learned from me, yay!) and she found this top to be too loose for her. Who wouldn't be willing to take it, right?

When I was about to leave home for work yesterday, she gave me a disapproving look of my all-black ensemble and handed me a better pair of leggings from her own closet. I initially mistook it as curtains due to its crumpled fabric, but later on realized its feminine appeal gave a cool contrast to my punk rock-inspired top. 

Just like my mum, I felt it's kinda loose, lengthy and unflattering. But I really had to leave for work and I had no time to rummage for other outfits. To my surprise, I received a lot of compliments from my colleagues for this awesome look. Can't wait to wear it again!

What I enjoyed the most about this outfit? The fact that my mudra actually styled me. She stopped doing so since I went to college and I must admit I somehow missed it. Just a little bit. 

Wearing stuff from my mum's closet (except lace flats)

Outfit of the Day:

Bejeweled skull blouse from ukay ukay

Crumpled leggings from mum

Lace flats from Solemate (SM) 

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.

WORLD PREMIERE: That Luigi Costume / PINAY CURVIES EVENT: Spooky-Oke Night!

If you were born in the 80's just like me, you probably never experienced dressing up and going trick-or-treat around this time of the year. Our idea of Halloween involved watching real-life spooky stories on Magandang Gabi Bayan and visiting our loved ones in the cemetery. So when Mitch asked me for theme/s on how to celebrate Pinay Curvies' first bloggiversary, I was quick to suggest a Halloween costume party. Yes, psychologists call this compensation. Ha!

Since I've showed up as a cheshire cat last year, I daydreamed to level up this time. I initially planned to be Ginger Spice (I want this British Union Jack dress!) but my hectic schedule made me change plans and, thanks to this random stranger wearing a Super Mario Bros. shirt, I got an idea who I'll portray in the party. Of course, I asked Mitch to show up as Mario since our names start with M and L. Sadly, she can't see herself in jumpsuit and mustache. 

Finding this get-up wasn't as easy as I imagined. I thought I'll go with this denim jumper then I realized my latest ukay ukay purchase looks more appealing. I was relieved to hear that my friend can customize this mustache necklace and my friend referred me to Chikara Hats. I luuuurve my friends! 

However, I was unable to find a mushroom to complete the look. There's none in Clipper outlets in Eastwood, Gateway and Farmer's Plaza and I was told there's no Comic Alley in Glorietta (anymore?). Dear Kate Torralba, how can I order? Still waiting for your reply here.

L is for Lorna...and Luigi!

Outfit of the Day:

Mum's green top

Jumpsuit from ukay ukay

White gloves from SM

Green flats from Solemate (SM)

Luigi hat from Chikara Hats

Mustache necklace from Pepper Manila

***

The local curvy community I helped co-build is now one-year-old! Can you believe it? My daydreaming days felt just like yesterday and now I'm reminiscing about our little party to thank everyone for supporting our efforts to make it a smaller world for plus size Pinays worldwide. And so we dubbed it as #SpookyokeNight. Because singing is our national pasttime and we ain't celebrating until the fat ladies sing!

Spooky-oke Night!

The grateful faces behind Pinay Curvies

 How we partied, in photos

I don't think these photos can give justice to the amount of merriment we had last Saturday night and I don't think I can even articulate all my favorite moments. I'm super thankful that everyone showed up in fab costumes and everyone's game to croon and dance away. Mitch and I had a hard time choosing the best in costume and best singer, even! After much deliberation, we opted to have 2 winners per category. 

 Best in costumes: Janice as Kung Fu Hustle landlady & Lyn of ward88 as SnowWhite

Best Singers: Chiara as she-devil # 2 and Jo-anne as Insiduos black lady

 You're so sweet, Erzullie!

We made it to the news! Thanks, Candy!

See more #SpookyokeNight photos here. Photos by Cleopatra Mitch Leus.
Watch our own crazy rendition of Dynamite and Titanium on our YouTube channel. Mind you, we're not even drunk yet!

WORLD PREMIERE: That See-Through Miniskirt / Erzullie's First Look: Holiday 2013

After attending The Better Story Project's "Beauty Matters" workshop, I dashed to Eastwood for another empowering event. And when I say "dashed", I hiked up my long skirt to keep myself from tripping and hailed the first cab that came my way. I didn't realize how short this skirt can I get when I sit down before I left home (yeah, it pays to rehearse how it looks while sitting down) and it's a good thing I've set my mind to take cabs from one destination to another that day. 

I noticed that most people stare at my skirt and whisper something to their company and - worst - laugh about it - but I'm just grateful for this opportunity to apply what I learned from the workshop right away. I know that I am beautiful, whatever clothes I wear or whatever make up I apply on my face. If their idea of beautiful or fashionable doesn't resonate with mine, it's not a predicament I should worry about anymore. If there's anything, I was concerned if I were giving a peep show. Needless to say, I had to position my huge bag on my lap when I'm seated all evening.

Notice how the outer, longer skirt contradicts the casual, cottony feel of the gray miniskirt?I love the contrast! The lace details at the bottom of the skirt made me bring out my equally lacey flats. You know me, I love bringing black and red together. But don't we all?

Next time, I'll pair this skirt with something casual like t-shirt and Chuck Taylor sneakers. Let's see how it'll look. *winks*

Outfit of the Day:

Black bejeweled top from Nine West (overrun)

See-through skirt from ukay ukay shop

Red lacey flats from Solemate

***

After I had my vegetarian dinner, I headed to Erzullie's First Look: Holiday 2013 gathering to become one of its welcoming commitee. Being "too" early had its perks (to be detailed later). Knowing the inspiration behind this year's collection, I was even more excited to see the new designs. Plus the fact that I was looking for a dress to wear to 1 of the 3 weddings I'll be attending this coming November. 

My favorite part: socials-slash-pictorial!

Photos from Erzullie and Monica

Pinay Curvies came to support Erzullie!

Photo from Mitch

Our outfits look familiar, yes? That's because we squeezed in a little pictorial for this feature. Thanks for helping us spread the word about our vision, Erzullie!

Everybody's favorite!

Photos from Erzullie and Monica

Yes, I've found a dainty dress for an upcoming fairy tale wedding! I adore the peplum details and the charming floral design. I normally fit in 1L, but the chest area proved to be tighter than usual. So I ended up putting on the one in 3L. (Thanks for the assistance, Monica!) Little did I know that the designers only made 2 dresses per size, so imagine the horror in my face when models Loren and Vera asked for this dress in 3L! Like a mad woman, I told designer Berna I'll buy the one I tried, offered to pay right away and I'll leave the tug-of-war action between the models. We later on learned that Loren will get her own during this pictorial scheduled the following weekend. No need to panic at all! Phew!

As always, it was a fun to see one of our local brands continue to produce lovely designs and meet fellow plus size Pinays in the process. Mabuhay kayo, Erzullie!

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

WORLD PREMIERE: That Pastel Pink Pants / Color Blocking

Being unable to climb back to the Prayer Mountain for the Holy Week just like I did last year, I committed to serve during the Resurrection Sunday instead. I assumed the organizers would ask us, volunteer ushers/usherettes, to wear something preppy or formal, just like last year. Imagine my shock when they announced that females should wear colored denim pants. Something summer-y and casual. Wow!

Of course I panicked. It's my first time to serve and I refuse to disappoint the elders and my small group leader. I'm more of a skirt girl and I only have 2 pairs of denim pants rotting inside my closet. The first thing that crossed my mind was to raid my mum's closet, as always. But I found my tired feet take me to an ukay ukay shop near my parents' home in Bacoor. (I was wearing this when it happened, by the way.) I typically go the distance whenever I go secondhand shopping (ex. Kamias, Ortigas, Cubao Makati. Las Piñas City would have to be the closest). 

Guess what I found in this small ukay ukay shop in City of Bacoor (yep, Mayor Strike Revilla wants it City of Bacoor vs. Bacoor City)? A pair of pastel pink sort-of slacks! I call it "sort-of slacks" since it kinda looks deceivingly formal but it's actually cottony and comfy. It's not denim, as required, but this pair sure looks casual enough. It must be the bitin look, I guess.

So I have found my pants. What else to wear? I immediately thought of my overused purple flats (you first met 'em here) in my mind and racked my brains for the fitting top to wear. Out of nowhere, the concept of color blocking came to mind.

So I paired my pastel pink pants with blue top and purple flats...

In the informal survey (naks!) I conducted via BBM, this combination was just the runner-up choice and most respondents prefer this top instead.  But I found it too long; it will make me look shorter. If you wanna see the other options (Exhibits A-E), I can send it via BBM. Ha!

For the first time, I didn't take off my ID for yesterday's photo opps. So, how do you find this outfit?

What my ID says...

Guide to Color Blocking

Obtained from Maita Atienza Makeup's fanpage

Outfit of the Day:

Blue v-neck top with loose sleeve from Landmark

Pastel pink pants from ukay ukay shop

Purple flats from Sassy Girl 

Cultured pearl earrings from Zamboanga

WORLD PREMIERE: That Printed Purple Jacket

A week before our long-awaited trek to the highlands of Baguio, I was told by friends that it was super cold. Hence, I packed my colorful muffler and my new jacket, plus my old hooded jacket and bonnet for my boyfriend Waldo in preparation for this trip. Wait, I just re-read the prior sentence and something feels off. My new jacket? Technically, it’s somebody else’s old jacket. I need to clear that out. (Were you thinking something hand-me-down for Waldo, something spanking new for me? Nah. Haha!)

Like I’ve mentioned here, ukay ukay shops had always been my source of fab finds; they always have something kikay for me and my big bust, something that makes me express my inner boho better and something that other women won’t likely buy elsewhere. Since they offer second-hand items from countries abroad, they manage to attract buyers for winter jackets, coats, boots and other thermal stuff for less. Imagine branded jackets that range from PhP100-500 and I can already imagine you panic-buying for stuff we don’t really need in a tropical country like ours. So why did I purchase this printed jacket I’m about to show you? Well, I decided to scour for winter clothes in hopes to attend my best friend’s winter wedding in Australia early this year. Turned out I can’t fly there and stand as a witness. Not yet!

Read the rest of this blog entry here.

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

WORLD PREMIERE: That Pinstriped Blazer / Trend of The Month Challenge: Colorful Blazer

I've been imagining how I'd look like in custard green or neon pink blazer with a low-cut tank top and silver shorts for months now.  This obsession with colorful blazers was temporarily appeased during my recent ukay ukay shopping. Upon unearthing this pinstriped blazer, I vowed to scour for the perfect pair of shorts next. However, this trend-of-the-month challenge's deadline made me rummage my apartment closet for something else. Fast! With the typically toxic workload during quarter-ends and my ongoing attempts to practice work-life balance, I can only afford to do the pictorial during office hours. And there's no way our security will allow me to enter the premises donning short shorts. Sighs. Ladies and gents, meet my bandage skirt again (you've seen it here, there and everywhere!).

Anyway, I like how this blazer's stripes serve as clue for which pair of shoes to wear for the day. I was initially attracted to bring out my t-strapped teal flats but changed my mind. In spite of the rain that greeted me this morning, I opted for the mint moccasin flats (world premiered here) for some instant sunshine this manic Monday.

 

 Colorful chick against the models in monochrome. Ha!

 Closer look of the stripes I've earned

Stripes + mint flats = fabness!

Do NOT try this...in the office! Haha!

If you just tuned in, let me inform you that I rarely go for the corporate attire. Collars and long sleeves lead to discomfort, I'm not fond of slacks and I'm far from being prim and proper. Haha! Anyway, this is one deviation that will absolutely have a repeat until I finally score my desired neon pink and/or custard green blazer and silver shorts. And THAT world premiere will definitely take place anywhere but in the workplace. Can't wait!

Outfit of the Day:

Pinstriped blazer from ukay ukay

Dark brown top

Bandage skirt

Mint moccasin flats from Fancy Flats

Photos by Elaine Elquiero and Sheryl Matucad.

Collage by Winifred Layug

WORLD PREMIERE: Long-sleeved Mint Blouse + Coral Top + Black Capri Pants + Mint Moccasin Flats / Bloggers Do Mint + Coral Better

When I first stumbled upon the Bloggers Do Mint + Coral Better challenge, I was immediately reminded to bring out this patent leather moccasins out of my closet. Pronto! But what else to wear? I have a polka dotted dress with tiny mint dots and a new pinstriped blazer with mint stripes from my recent ukay ukay shopping, but they're both far from being coral.

My search brought me back to my closet in my parents' home in Cavite. I hesitatantly took home an old thrifted purchase which I never had the courage to wear outside my bedroom. This light-blue-and-orange top generously provided coverage for my arms yet plunged too low and promised an abundant view of the valley between Mt. Suzy and Mt. Geno. I don't even know why I bought it in the first place. Needless to say, this top still doesn't qualify me to make a mint + coral entry. What now?

So I did a half-hearted rummage in the mall after the Sunday service. Coral doesn't seem like a popular shade, but I'm thankful to have found this loose top. However, I realize I can't wear this sleeveless top as is since the current length of my auxillary hair is something I find too hideous, but my new waxer will only dismiss as too short still. So why not put it on top of my long-sleeved top and use it as shield against catcalls, right? I pondered hard as I never ventured into layering. In my estimation, it only looks awesome on skinny people. But the risktaker in me whispered encouraging spiels and I listened. It just might look good on extra seksi women like me, too.

All right, enough back story and let's proceed to the main event! The world premiere begins in 5, 4, 3, 2...

Ta-da!

Check out the contrast!

Detail left unseen. At least for today.

It was also my first time to wear this capri pants with these cuuuute gold buttons. During my bedroom rehearsal, I tucked this coral top to ensure these buttons get their share of limelight, too. However, I feel more comfy when this top is flowing free. More exposure for these golden girls next time! Pinkie promise!

  My mint moccasins from Fancy Flats. One size smaller!

***

Lipstick of the Day: Human <3 Nature's Island Kiss tinted lip balm + Sweet Nectar hydrating lipstick + Coral Beach mineral lip gloss

Did somebody say coral? Wait, let me take out my coral lip balm and coral lip gloss!

If you just tuned in, I find pussy red lipsticks fitting for daily use. However, for today's attempt to be the rainbow during and after the rain, it may seem like an overkill to go for an equally loud hue for my lips. Or maybe not. Please allow me to deviate and show you what I've saved for the rainy days.

Human <3 Nature's all-natural lip products: Island Kiss tinted lip balm,  Sweet Nectar hydrating lipstick and Coral Beach mineral lip gloss.

Coral galore on my lips!

My apologies for these pictures hardly give justice to the layers of coral and neutral shades that I smothered my lips today. Perhaps I should have gone for the Coral Kiss hydrating lipstick instead. But, hey, I truly like how this pastel polish looked against my eye-catching (I think) mint + coral ensemble.

Photos by Elaine Elquiero and Sheryl Matucad.