ballerina'sclosetobsession

Summer Wardrobe by Audrey Stallington

2011-08-25T14:44:00.000-07:00

While the weather may not be that summery – your wardrobe can certainly be bright and summery.

This spring/summer there was one trend that stood out on the catwalks; color blocking. The stars have been championing the trend, with Michelle Obama, Cheryl Cole and Nicole Scherzinger all seen working the latest look.

The catwalks were full of bright zingy colors, from tangerine contrasted with cobalt at Prada, rainbow brights in an array of colors at Jill Sanders, jewel like tones (teamed with this season's must have accessory the Obi belt) at Gucci. Meanwhile Sonia Rykiel opted for zesty yellows, mixed with reds and purples and Christopher Kane went for fluorescent lace dresses.

The great thing about colour blocking is that you can really go to town and have fun with the look. When it comes to this trend anything goes, although tangerines, cobalt blues, purples and vivid pinks have been very popular. So you can really experiment and go wild with colour. It doesn't even matter if the two colours clash, that's the whole point of the look.

However, while you can go wild with color it is important to keep the rest of the outfit chic and simple, so avoid over the top frills and embellishment. Instead, go for clean lines so opt for simple shift dresses or skinny jeans and a plain top. If you add too many frills, the look will look cluttered and over the top.

If the thought of full on bright and clashing colour is too much for you then pair a bright piece with neutrals or black for a quick and easy way to update your current wardrobe. Or you could go for bright accessories, so stock up on bangles, bags and shoes in bright hues. You can visit sites like Very.co.uk to find some really cute shoes and boots. That way you can get the look without going for full on color and it also means that you don't have to completely replace your wardrobe.

At French Connection we have a range of clothes in rainbow bright colors from jumpsuits, tops and skirts to jewelry bags and shoes so you can really experiment with the look.

Back from the Grave, I Hope

2011-07-05T09:13:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! I'm hopefully back from the grave. I went through this blog tonight and read a little of what I've written the past year. I'm uncertain whether I'm still that girl; but one thing is ironclad sure: I still have a shopping tick.

I'm going to take things easy as I navigate these waters again and post pics which have been randomly taken by well meaning friends. I was a little bit worried about choreographing the usual funny shoot of my things and the accompanying jibber jabber about them so I'm just going to look for photos that can best capture their essence for you. I've had quite an addition to ze wardrobe, some are long-lusted-for things while most are crazy impulse purchases. Yes, I'm still quite the victim.

Thanks to old and new friends from my college days, I've been having fun with monthly mini-reunions where the girls share beauty secrets and the boys explain the "Men Are from Mars" concept more lucidly to the girls.

I love how the 60s look has blipped back into the radar. I've acquired quite a number of crocheted numbers which I so adore. This oh-so-white crocheted dress was made for me by one of my students' yayas who made it without measuring me. Amazing really. More amazing was the fact that she refused payment for it! I promptly gave her the replacement spools of thread that she used to make it with and a gift which I know is really not enough to match her talent and patience. She explained to me that she likes crocheting while waiting for her ward during ballet, singing, and acting lessons. I wish my own yaya was as creative with her time when I was young!

Oh, there was a problem with this dress in the beginning ... I couldn't wear it right away because it had no lining. Duh. I solved that by wearing a white camisole and shorts underneath it, from MNG.That really does the trick of a decent cover up. I just have to endure the strange stares which I can only translate to mean "What was she thinking?!" Well, dressing up is a self-expression thing, baby!

I was stoked to discover that I also had a black crocheted cardigan bought from MNG from ages ago. I brought it with me in case it got chilly (which it didn't ... the air-conditioning unit at the resto was not being efficient either that evening).

I wanted to mention deets about my bracelets here; but they're really too small in this pic for you to appreciate. They're quite lovely in person ... trust me!

These are my college friends. They're so REAL. When one gets to my age, one should be able to rely on those people who will tell one the God's honest truth. Butch, who is seen standing behind me, and whom I refer to as my "Honorary Fave Bro," has taken to calling me "Animé." He claims that I dress like Japanese Animé girls. I laughed at this at first, not fully knowing what it meant until I went home, googled it, and text messaged him with a "Buuuutch! Noooooo!" We laugh about it all the time now. He didn't let it go though and still persists on saying that I dress up like a cartoon character. Hmmm. Okay. He's entitled to his opinion. "Buuuuutch! Noooo!"

Taken outside of the resto. I finally got myself a Balenciaga Motorcycle Bag in mauve, of all colors. I went on a shopping trip to Hongkong with my sister-in-law a few months back and decided that the hubby had to give me this bag. I've dreamed of it long enough so I figured ... swipe ze card. (Don't worry, I said thank you very much when I got home!) Do you know that feeling when you go to a boutique, not needing anything; but having a strange, unbearable urge to get something? Well, that was what happened to me when I got this because I would've never gotten anything in mauve on my saner days, believe me. I'm very much taken with it nowadays though. It gives my neutral palleted outfits the zing that they need, right?

I'm still working on the shoe line that my baby bro and I began last year. This one was our R and D sample for the HoneyClog platforms, "Amanda." It still lacks the cubist ribbon trim here but the baby bro demanded that I road test it for comfort and safety for as much as I could. It's sky-high at 5" but nevertheless passed both requirements with flying colors. It's under production right now and should be available at our HoneyClog stand at the Sofa Retail Outlet at the Power Plant Mall. I shall attempt to post better pics of it as I go along.

The HoneyClogs are doing quite well, by the way ... a validation of my craziness and penchant for all things fun and chic. Yeah!

Ssssh! My Secret.

2010-07-05T22:27:00.000-07:00

I’m so sorry for being MIA lately. Been busy with my secret project. I’ve been at it since May actually; and now I can finally reveal all.

The family owns a great shoe making legacy which I’ve never really involved myself with 'til now. My Dad started it in the 70s, then for a variety of reasons, economic climate notwithstanding, it went on a hiatus. My Mom revived it a few years back and involved my brothers in the business. It’s actually a thriving enterprise with the brothers at the helm now.

A month after my Mom passed away, two brothers proposed that I “design” a totally different shoe line for them. I would have complete artistic control over EVERYTHING. Could I say no to that? I was also going to have the opportunity to work with my youngest brother (I have 5 brothers, total. Yup, it was an absolute riot growing up with 5 tyrannical males!) who I felt was ready to do something so out–of–the–box with me. I mean, they always used to laugh at ALL my outfits … now they’re going to trust me with an actual shoe line?!

We’ve been meeting every Saturday since. And well, out of the 6 initial design prototypes, I’ve finally approved 1 shoe for production. The “Anna 101:”

Basically, we’ve done a successful knock off of my Zara platforms, which had a host of stability issues. We changed the shape of the foot bed to use the business’ know how on orthopedic comfort. My brother also revised the shape of the platform so the wearer won’t feel like she was wading in water all the time. It’s now as steady and secure as the Bank of England.

I originally wanted croc leather; but thought against killing crocodiles so my baby bro suggested embossed leather which looks almost like the real thing. We also used Mahogany (I wanted it sturdy, remember?) for the wooden foot bed and heel which come from sustainable Mahogany farms. I mean, you would be able to pass on this shoe to your daughter!

The leather uppers are also shaped differently, just to fit more snuggly along your instep.

I’ve been road testing the “Anna 101” all week … to a corporate function …

to the theater …

to a friend’s anniversary dinner …

and last night, to a girl’s night out …

I've gotten quite a bit of interested queries!

and I’m so pleased to say that they're suuuper comfy! None of the stress from the usual wearing of high heels. And these babies are 5” tall!

My baby bro has given me authority to introduce the “Anna 101” here; AND I’m also allowed to take pre–orders. They’re priced at PhP6,950.00 for the Philippines, excluding shipping. We will be opening orders for foreign clients soon as our Paypal Account is set and ready. The equivalent would be roughly US$155.00, excluding shipping.

We are going to do a full launch in March 2011 so well, yes, this is as of now, Manila’s best kept secret.

Our shoe clog line is called “Honey” after my Mom, of course!

The Effervescent Anna dello Russo

2010-06-25T21:41:00.000-07:00

I was supposed to do an outfit post; but got sidetracked by a quotation cum advise by Anna dello Russo, fashion director at large of Vogue Nippon.

Anna dello Russo may be a name few women recognize. But she is quickly becoming a fearless fashion icon across the world. She gained immense popularity when Scott Schuman of The Sartorialist began noticing her. I particularly love how she thinks jewelry make an outfit personal … my sentiments exactly!

(All photos of Anna are by Scott Schuman.)

And now for her quotation about what to wear and generally, how to behave during fashion week which had me howling in laughter (I haven’t howled in such a long time!) that I just had to do a re–post here:

"During the fashion week I have my rules to follow and I'm going to tell my top ten list for the FRONT–ROW:"

1) YOU MUST WEAR OUTFIT ONCE.

(This is a little bit difficult during the current recession but remember that she is a widely photographed personality. That is my defense for her!)

2) WEAR GOOD SHOES. DON'T BOTHER WITH A BAG CAUSE WHEN YOU PUT IT ON THE FLOOR IT COULD BE ANYONE.

(There’s a lot of standing around and chit chatting ala cocktail style. Hmm. But to not carry a bag will mean that one has to have gigantic pockets on one’s outfit!)

3) WEAR COAT AS A DRESS. ONE–SHOT IS BETTER.

(Someone explain this to me please?!)

4) DON'T WEAR SUNGLASSES, IF YOU NOT ARE VIP (VERY VERY IMPORTANT PERSON). IT'S IMPOLITE.

(I LOL–ed on this one! Spot on, as always, Anna!)

5) SOMEBODY WEARING YOUR SAME OUTFIT? WONDERFUL, YOU DID THE RIGHT CHOISE!

(Gosh, I am always so scared of this; but she takes it like a trooper. I’m never going to be afraid again.)

6) FLASHY JEWELS PERSONALIZE YOUR STYLE.

(Exactly … which reminds me … I reserved a really vivacious designer cuff for pick–up at the end of the month … Wish me luck! The goddess, Anna, beckons.)

7) NOTHING SUCCEEDS LIKE EXCESS!

(Yeah!)

8) DON'T PEEK INTO THE CLIPBOARD OF WHO IS SITTING NEXT.

(Feign disinterest even if you’re on pins and needles!)

9) DON'T SAY HELLO SHOWILY AND WARMLY AT WHO IS IN FRONT OF YOU.

(Gotcha!)

10) SHARE YOUR LOVE FOR THE SHOW ON TWITTER AS MUCH YOU CAN.

(Okiedokie, Anna!)

Anna, YOU are the absolute bomb!

Don’t you think so?!

Good Old Rock n' Roll

2010-06-18T21:29:00.000-07:00

Went to the theater. I was enthused by the works of the country’s leading contemporary dance choreographers. How they can translate weighty subject matters as breast cancer, racism, global warming, abuse, torture, domestic violence, and environmental pollution, to name a few; is truly inspiring.

I recently choreographed a piece about abortion and the millennial woman to music by Shivaree’s “Goodnight Moon” for a dance festival. Some were taken by it while others were frankly disturbed. Well, I thought, as long as the reaction is not indifference then I’m on the right track; and while social diseases plague our daily lives then there will always be choreographers like me to address them.

Soooo, my outfit to the theater was inspired by good old rock n’roll:

a black and white printed Tee by Topshop; (Yeeees, Topshop, again! I was drawn to this one in particular because it was a black and white vintage photo of music hall girls doing the "sinful" Cancan in the Montparnasse of the 1830s. I can imagine the sheer guts of those women wilst doing a dance that was then considered outrageous and devilish!);

(a close–up of the plucky can–can girls)

black sequinned leggings from Topshop, naturally (Would you believe that dozens upon dozens of these were placed on sale at 50% off? Had I known this, I would’ve simply waited as I had not worn them anyway ‘til much later on. Grr. This happens a lot to me!);

my Chanel–esque biker chic jacket from MNG (I love how it can dress up any outfit. Truly a great buy from ages ago!);

my black patent, Gucci platforms which I’m so loving right now (I was stoked to discover that both Jane Aldridge of Sea of Shoes and Karla Derass of Karla’s Closet own the exact pair in different colors.);

my black, embossed leather bag by Hugo Boss (Seriously, an old reliable.);

and the bling.

What would you wear to the theater? Gone are the days when one dresses to the hilt for it ... I miss those days.

LuShae Jewelry

2010-06-16T01:52:00.000-07:00

I would like to introduce all of you to my new friend, Sarah of LuShae Jewelry! You will probably spend countless hours, looking over her wonderful jewelry designs that are so now, yet so timeless.

LuShae Jewelry follows celebrity and fashion jewelry trends in authentic sterling silver with a wide array of precious and semi precious stones. There is a definite value for your money deal here!

It’s also such a shopper friendly website, complete with exacting descriptions, a sizing guide, and a quick jewelry handbook of sorts which takes you to jewelry basics, a history of jewelry, a gem stones and metals guide, a jewelry buying guide, as well as how to store and clean jewelry.

All items listed are in stock and currently shipping free of charge!

You know what a sucker I am for rings so off I went to the ring section. I found me some finger candy to lust over:

The ultra–modern and ultra–gorgeous Cobblestone Ring 2. It’s fabricated in White Gold Rhodium Bonding. (I learned something new today: Rhodium is a close cousin of platinum that costs three times as much. As I told you earlier … value for your money!)

I just love the art deco inspired design of the Matte Squares Ring. Super chic, ne c’est pas?!

The Believe Ring … What a strong message to wear on one’s finger! They also have rings that have “Faith,” “Hope, and “Love” engraved in rich, black enamel.

My absolute fave is the Dark Chocolate Decadence Ring. You know how I die for cocktail rings. The brown topaz looks perfect on the 14K Bonded Gold setting.

The The Pop Star 3 Ring reminds me of my Cartier Eternity engagement ring; only it's thrice more the fun. Anyone who gives you this is guaranteeing you a lifetime of romance!

The Bijoux Ring is THE trinket to have. Doesn’t it look like cathedral windows with the multi–colored and multi–shaped stones? Stunning, to say the least.

Who says you can’t be Lady Diana forever? The very whimsical Queen Royalty Eternity Ring makes you the queen of queens!

And wait ‘til you see Lushae Jewelry’s Promise Rings:

Nothing spells romance as perfectly as the Love Promise Ring in Black Enamel and White Gold Rhodium Bonding. What a flawless way to declare your feelings.

The elegant Heart Shaped Promise Ring is modern as much as it transcends the hands of time. Falling in love looks easy with this one.

I never thought a wreath could be worn as jewelry; yet here it is: the Wreath Pendant! Christmas all year long, the way we like it.

A touch of pink, anyone? Look and feel fabulous with the Popping Pink Emeralds Earrings!

The Amethyst Dew Drop Earrings will frame any face faultlessly, don’t you think?

And can you resist the Monrovia Bracelet at all?

There are lots and lots more!

Please hurry and visit LuShae Jewelry. Shipping is currently free to ALL destinations. They ship with registered U.S. post to all countries. U.S. customers can expect delivery of within 2–5 working days after placing the order, while international orders can take up to 14 working days depending on the country.

Happy shopping, everyone!

Seems Like a Lifetime

2010-06-13T01:04:00.000-07:00

My first blog after three months. Seems like a lifetime. I wasn’t sure about getting back but the pull of the blogosphere was emphatic AND strong. Whoever said that it was a “virtual world” was hugely mistaken. The friends I made here either posted inquiries or emailed me about when exactly I would be getting back. Thank you all sincerely from the bottom of my heart.

Losing a loved one brings about many strange behaviors. I found myself unable to go to events or if I did, people could be talking over my head and I was oblivious to the conversation. I would nod and say yes, not knowing what I had said yes to.

It took me a month to get back to teaching … my students were willing enough to give me more time off; but what kind of a role model would I be to them if I gave in to being crippled. I could not fathom the fact that the same thing could happen to them, and they would pull out that memory of me not being able to function. They could very well tell themselves that it was okay to wallow in misery because Teacher Nina did so once-upon-a-time. No, I could not let that happen.

I had TV serial marathons. Anything that kept me from thinking about my loss was welcome. Did I mention the compulsive eating? I’ve gained a whole 4 pounds just from all the neurotic snacking. Over processed food was a refuge from reality.

Oh, and the retail therapy. I think I broke the bank once or twice or God knows how many times. Not one item gave me that thrill of the find or the sense of acquisition that it usually did.

BUT … I woke up today feeling and catching a glimpse of who I was. I realized that this blog was already a part of my make-up and that my return was a journey to normalcy. I’ve been living each day one at a time for the past months. There are good days and bad days. I know the worse isn’t over; but at least, I’ve somehow become proactive about the healing process.

I cannot thank you enough for all the support that you have sent my way. I do not wish the same thing to happen to anyone; but I hope to do the same for you when life comes crashing down.

A white, cotton Tee by Hanes (I really like wearing them big nowadays. Hides the flaws!);

studded brown belt by Topshop (My sister calls Topshop my church. How spot on can she get!);

light grey, cuffed linen shorts from Topshop (the place of worship!);

the Heschung shoes by Commes des Garcons (I lusted over this pair for two years perhaps, only to find it at some remote shop on an unplanned shopping trip. I think it was my Mom, trying to cheer me up somehow?!);

the Louis Vuitton that almost spelled bankruptcy for me (I was ordering an LV Doctor's Bag; but this was the only one available that I liked so home it went with me.);

the necklaces: a scapular medal in white gold (an old gift from the hubby); a gold scapular medal (This was my Mom's. I was so happy that my sister decided to let me have it as my Mom was such a devotee of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and wore this everyday of her life. It feels like having her around still.); Tiffany key and padlock (a gift from the hubby. Too many necklaces all at once, you think? I guess I felt like Madonna in her "Papa Don't Preach" days.);

and the rest of the bling.

I will get back to all of you, I promise.

Kisses!

My Mom, "Honey," 1937-2010

2010-04-07T18:35:00.000-07:00

There are no words.

My Mom, "Honey," passed away just last Saturday. She joined my Dad who went to the great divide 13 years before her. They are at last happy at their long awaited reunion; but I grieve the loss.

She suffered in the hospital, all the while assuring me that she would make it through this "trial" and that she still had so many things left undone. She did so like a typical mother to a petrified child who was afraid of the dark.

How does one articulate such an event in one's life? It seemed untenable in the past and yet, here it is. I am faced with a future without parents. Losing my Dad years back is still very fresh in my mind and then this blow. It is nothing but utterly, utterly crippling.

Please embrace your Mom the very next time you see her? Think of me when you do this and perhaps, by some chance, my own mother will get that hug as well from me. My Mom was so old school and had only just learned to say "I love you" and to embrace us without any of the self-consciousness that belonged to those borne of the wartime era. I miss her hugs which truly made me feel loved and safe.

Pray that I survive this?

Costumes

2010-03-30T16:59:00.000-07:00

So sorry for being MIA lately. My big school show was the main concern and everything else about it. All the effort paid off though and things could not have gone smoother ...

Finally, I birthed my new baby. This is Pointe to Point, the magazine that accompanies all my theater based shows. It features the students of École de Ballet Manille and their thoughts on all dance-related issues. This kept me up many nights.

Costumes for a show are also a big preoccupation. I find myself turning into a wannabe designer. The highlight of the recital was a narrated ballet d'action or a story ballet entitled "The Search for a Real Princess," the storyline of which follows an abridged version of the classic fairy tale, "The Princess and the Pea," writen by moi. I had to design costumes for the characters therein. Here are some of them which I thought turned out quite well:

my "Spiders Parisienne" ...

the "Lumpy Peas" ...

the "Counting Sheep" ...

the "Golden Nuggets" ...

the "Teacups" ...

"Castle-Wall-Covered-with-Slime" ...

the "Spinster Ladies-in-Waiting" ...

the "Nightingales of Lalaland" ...

the "Red Fire Engine Ants" ...

the "Tumbling Mattreses" ...

and the lead characters, Queen Cruella, Princess Charmaine, Prince Smarty-Pants and his Two Sidekicks.

Designing costumes has never been an easy task for me but one which I have to do aside from wearing the many hats of artistic director, faculty advisor, teacher, and choreographer. It's either that or get stuck with costumes designed by someone else whose aesthetic does not match mine or the choreography at hand.

As you can see, although I don't have too much color in my own closet, I do love to use a rainbow of them for costumes made for any of my school endeavors. I guess, that's where I find the release?! I shall upload the costumes for the other sections of the show in my next post just to prove to you how crazy busy I've been the past weeks.

Unlike designing costumes, blogging is high up on my fave to-do list. I shall get back to you all tonight! 'Til then, my dear gorgeous blogger friends!

A Wobbly Walk and the Sunshine Award

2010-03-18T19:41:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to try my new platform clogs from Zara.

I was just browsing through the new Zara deliveries, not intending to get anything; but when I saw these ... you know the drill?! The funny thing is, although I was told that these platforms were not manufactured in my size (Discrimination?!); I hardly grappled with my shopping conscience and still made a beeline for the cashier's desk. They're a full size larger which did not bother me ... I was going to do the Tim Gunn thing and "make it work!" They were just too Balenciaga-esque and Chanel-esque for me to just leave them behind!

Hmmm. There is a valuable lesson in all of this. All that space inside the shoes threw me off! I was wobbly going down the steps of my home and into the car. Wobbly again getting off and into the foyer of the building. I was a horrid, unstable mess! But ... I made it work. I tightened it a notch so they could wrap around my ankles more securely (Truthfully, it was more like I suffocated ze poor ankles ... ouch!) and used my abdominal muscles to carry me through from my center ... a skill I only use for dancing and well now, it's de rigueur whenever I wear this pair of shoes!

Wore my trusty, cotton voile, long sleeved marvel from MNG (I've worn this a million times here. They're just so reliable.);

an A-line denim skirt from Topshop (I've had this for ages. It's one of those items that I wear with comfort when I'm feeling bloated after too much sushi and soy sauce the night before! We all have those crucial items in our closets, right? And ... I'm a sucker for A-line skirts. I think they just adorn the hips wonderfully!);

the logo embossed, leather bag by Hugo Boss (the current flavor of the month);

my Tiger's Eye cocktail ring (I never used to like that stone. I used to think it was too out there; but one changes one's mind when one gets older, I guess ... Nothing remains static ... thank goodness!);

and paired with the everyday bling!

I was given the Sunshine Award by the lovely Vera of Jewel In The Sand and stunning Vinda of Fashion Atelier. I highly recommend visits to their blogsites! You will probably make them your daily stopover, the way I do!

Vera of Jewel In The Sand lives for fashion, adores kids, and is optimistic about life ... a perfect combo for a fantastic blogger and all around fashion maven like all of you!

I've been a follower of Vinda's Fashion Atelier from when she first started it and let me just say that it has transformed into a source of editorialized fashion images worthy of magazine spreads! Vinda is also quite an accomplished illustrator and poet. You may spend many days just sifting through her wonderful blog ...

Merci beaucoup Vera and Vinda for this Sunshine Award! And now for the fun part, I would like to pass this on to the following bloggers who are rays of sunshine themselves:

1. Mia of Pink Pecan

2. Kookie B. of Death by Platforms

3. Sarah of Pandora's Box

4. Jodes of Seamstress for the Band

5. Rachel of Attempting Style

6. Castor Pollux

7. Style Changes

8. Jade of Jade Purple Brown

9. Jen of A Little Bird Told Me

10. Sher of Beneath the Crystal Stars

Please pass on the award to 10 other great bloggers as yourselves?!

Kisses!

It's My Time Global Casting Competition and Frolic Bikinis

2010-03-15T02:44:00.000-07:00

Eva of It's: My: Time asked me to share with you a very worthwhile casting competition organized by Benetton!

IT’S MY TIME is a Global Casting Competition:

It's not about catwalk cliches and model attitude. We’re looking for natural beauty and fresh faces. Build your profile and vote for the finalists. The 100 highest voted entries get featured in our new book on global style and win 200 euro to spend in Benetton. From these, 20 will be selected and flown to New York to be in the Benetton 2010 Fall/Winter campaign. We don't care where you're from, only where you can go.

Now IT'S MY TIME.

For more information, please click here.

No outfit post today.

Instead, I'm very proud to introduce to you "Frolic," a new swimwear line by three aspiring swimwear designers, Ashley, Grace, and Myr (who happen to be three amazing ballet students of mine!).

Yup, this one they named after me! Thank you, girls!

"Frolic" Bikinis retail from PhP1,000.00 to PhP1,200.00 (roughly US$20.00 to US$25.00) and are currently available only in the Philippines. Sizes are Small / Medium / Large. Interested parties may call Ashley at 0917-5380186 or Grace at 0917-5200123.

Hello Summer, indeed!

Work Outfit and the Beautiful Blogger Award

2010-03-10T18:21:00.000-08:00

Had a mall show last Sunday. I staged all the numbers that I thought my girls should shake the old nerves away with. Naturally, this meant I was again ze old stage hand and could wear nothing but comfy, easy-to-move clothes in:

Wearing a grey, graphic Tee from MNG;

studded, black belt from Salsa;

cuffed, light grey, cotton shorts from Chocolate & Company (Have you ever bought something that you knew was not your size and yet, you bought it anyway because it simply called out your name? Well, this is one of those items for me! I just had it adjusted by the seamstress who by the way asked me why I never buy things that are just right for me! I laughed so hard because she had "crazy eyes" when she spoke to me about it. Chocolate & Company is a garment brand from Australia that makes so many lovely, summery items that are hard to resist!);

matte gold ballerina flats from Topshop (I've been looking for this matte gold hue for years! I finally found them in Topshop but not without trouble ... the kind sales clerk, Karen, had them transferred to the branch of my choice and I had to wait a week before finally getting them. I remember skipping back to the car when they were safely in my possession!);

the oversized aviator shades from Rayban (which I'm so loving right now!);

the logo embossed bag from Hugo Boss (which I'm currently abusing!);

and the bling.

Joei of Definitely, Maybe passed on the Beautiful Blogger Award to me. Please do visit Joei! She covers the whole gamut of easy, no stress living: fashion and beauty, travel and leisure, homes and gardens, health and fitness, food and drinks, TV and movies, and science and technology. It's a one stop shop to anything you may be wondering about! Maraming, maraming salamat, mahal kong Joei!

I now have to state 7 facts about myself. If you are so inclined, you may read them here.

I wish I can pass this award to more than 7 people but for now, I'm passing this Beautiful Blogger Award to:

1. Panda of Stud Muffin
2. Vera of Jewel in the Sand
3. Nathalie of Accessory Pirate
4. CL of Chai, Cinnamon, and Couture
5. A Daisy Chain Dream
6. Deep in Vogue
7. Brianne Lee

I know I've been MIA lately; but I'm really swamped nowadays. I need more than the 24 hours given us in a day. I'm hoping to get more things done so I can get back to blogging properly. Boo!

I miss you all!

Virgin Mary or Mary Magdalene ... and the Fashion Blogger Award

2010-03-07T04:25:00.000-08:00

One of the most difficult occasions for me to dress up for is Sunday Mass. You all know why ... the devil inside of me won't let me follow dress codes to the letter. BUT I've been quite the docile girl lately:

I wore a maxi-dress from MNG (I was inspired by a dance colleague who wore a maxi-dress to the theater a few months ago. She just seemed to walk like a goddess amidst Philistines ... I was one of those Philistines, of course.);

a white bandeau from MNG underneath (Well, the neckline plunged right to there so before the hubby could say halt, I already did what I should.);

oversized aviator shades by Rayban (Got this during a christmas shopping trip with the hubby. He didn't want to get them for me at first. He thought they were too large for my face, making me look like a demented bumble bee. I assured him that I was going to work it so he forked the money over. I so love the hubby!);

metallic gold sandals from Charles & Keith (This is such a fashion forward footwear brand from Singapore. They do very good copies of Bally, Gucci, and Prada. This one is a Gucci knock-off without the faux diamond stones on the front lapel. I had to snap them up, right?);

the green alligator skinned bag by Fino;

and the bling, of course.

The church ladies smiled at me for the first time too ... and why not, I was covered like the Virgin Mary (Forgive me?!) or well, Mary Magdalene ... the things that run into my head during service. I must convert and become a good girl ... seriously!

The lovely Djhanq of Tattoo and Tees gave me the Fashion Blogger Award! Thanks so much, Djhanq! Please do visit her blogsite. She is quite the REAL Gossip Girl protagonist with her sense of style and Tim Burton movie genre proclivities! She's probably the next Taylor Momsen as we know it!

I would like to pass on this wonderful award to:

1. Leah

2. The Owl's Closet

3. Gleen of Creative Fashion

4. El_Martina

5. I Am Khatu

6. Noble Beeyotch of Not Fashionista ... Call Me Stylista

Please pass the Fashion Blogger Award to 6 other fashion dolls as yourselves!

Hugs!

The Winner of My First Giveaway and My First eBay Purchase

2010-03-01T21:42:00.000-08:00

Yey! There is a winner for my first giveaway ... it's No. 06 entry: Vinda Sonata of Fashion Atelier! I will send it to you, dear Vinda, as soon as I get your mailing details!

I'm planning another giveaway soon. So please stay tuned?! I've had so much fun doing this one that I wanted to do a repeat. There's nothing like spreading the joy all around!

Had a wonderful dinner with the in-laws hosted by a former ambassador to the Vatican (Hmm. Friends in high places; but connections one must never use!?).

Wore this dress by Topshop (I know, AGAIN, right? I bought it thinking it was an easy-to-wear thingy; but when I got home, I didn't have a clue on how to wing it as it was way too sheer to just use the old underpants underneath. I tried it on with my other chemise like shirts but they were just bulking the already bulky outline of the dress ... it's structured with generous folds from the neckline going down. It had to sit awhile in ze closet before I found a solution that I could live with ...);

finally wore skimpy, black, linen shorts from MNG under the dress (I've had these shorts for a whole year, I think. I came home only to realize that it was way too short for the hubby to ever allow me out with it. Voila, it has now found its calling! It still gets to be an armor for the privates after all.);

my oh-so lovely Mary Janes by Balenciaga (My first eBay puchase EVER! They just arrived last Sunday via my sister-in-law's luggage from California. Yey! They are quite exquisite in person and can you believe it, are also comfy to boot? No wonder the Olsen twins are so enamoured with Balenciaga footwear?! I am stalking Balenciaga from now on ... I swear it!);

the bling (I wore two large cocktail rings for the very first time. I didn't feel overdone and just decided to commit to piling-on-the-bling!);

and the lemon colored, super tiny, purse by Kate Spade.

This has been my longest hiatus between posts. Been so busy doing a million and one things. You are all forever in my head, though. I will get back to all you, my fab blogger friends, during my owl time ...

Kisses!

The Grotesque but Hilarious Tee Plus the Happy 101 Award

2010-02-25T20:29:00.000-08:00

Remember my current obsession with printed Tees? Well, I wore a really fun one last weekend for a lunch date with the famille:

a tee I got from Topman which features a vampire ...

and the rest of the kooky message, "Save water ... drink blood," which I found hilarious and grotesque at the same time. I had to get it, right?

Denim jeggings from Topshop (Oh, Topshop, I'm your slave, don'tcha know? My hard earned income goes straight to you. Boo!);

black, Croc loafers from Ferragamo (Got these from a long time ago, back when I was wearing endless loafers and flats and nursing a nasty knee injury. I never thought I'd ever get my bum knee strong enough to ever wear heels again. But sheer willpower was the driving force behind my physical therapy laden itinerary in the past ... the opportunity to wear heels and walking properly, of course! Sadly though, these loafers are not easy to wear ... I now have unsightly blisters because of them?! How could I have forgotten that problem! It's probably why I had relegated them to the topmost, unreachable shoe shelf. Ouch!);

the logo embossed leather bag from Hugo Boss (which I'm loving very much nowadays, by the way);

the cocktail ring (This one is really one of my faves.);

and the rest of the bling.

I feel so blessed to have gotten the Happy 101 Award from Lorena of In Vogue 1 Day. Please do visit her blog! Lorena is a talented fashion illustrator whose work is amazing as well as it is unique. I do wish she continues illustrating. She really has a strong point of view when it comes to fashion. Merci beaucoup, dear Lorena!

To officially receive the abovementioned, I'll have to list 10 things that make me happy. If you are so inclined, you can read my 10 things here.

I now pass on the Happy 101 Award to 10 bloggers, who make the blogosphere a very happy place to be in:

1. Lexi Colby of Chicsheek

2. Lilee of Zebra and Meerkat

3. Tara of Pink Positive

4. Sharon of Eli Sharon

5. Heart Charlie

6. Fleur of Fashion Nutty

7. Erica of Girl from the North Country

8. From Donuts to Delirium

9. Kristin of Bon Bon Rose Girls

10. Lue of The F Word Online

What a great way to start the weekend!

I would also like to invite everyone again to join my giveaway contest which runs 'til this Sunday, February 28. I currently counted 102 official entries. Yey! I will wait 'til the very last minute before picking a winner. Last minute joiners may hop on the bandwagon here.

For the non-winners, please do not worry ... I will be holding another giveaway soon after!

Kisses!

Grocery Shopping and a Giveaway Win!

2010-02-22T19:14:00.000-08:00

Grocery shopping is the kind of shopping I do not enjoy doing at all. The hubby used to do it for the household; but since he's gotten über busy, the task fell on my lap, au naturellement. I try to do it as quickly as possible as the temperature inside the supermarket is uncomfortable. Brr! So here is the grocery shopping outfit from yesterday:

A cotton voile top by Zara (I've used this blouse before. What I failed to omit the last time was that it had to undergo several adjustments by the seamstress before it fit me just right. I've hit a snag buying items at Zara in that sense. None of their tops fit me perfectly. I've pegged it down to having a weird body, so there.);

denim shorts by XOXO (These are one of my go-to items when I don't really want to spend time thinking about what to wear. I've worn them everywhere including to a funeral wake once! I just donned a more formal top and voila, I'm ready to bereave. Do you have trouble thinking about what to wear for those sad occasions? I do! It's such a depressing scenario to dress up for; but one where there is still no escaping from.);

grey Mary Janes by Kate Spade (I don't know about you; but I just love Mary Janes. They're just so girly. I think, Kate Spade has managed to cross them over from school girl charm to glamazonic. But I just discovered other brands that have done this to perfection as well. I've recently made my first eBay purchase a week ago and yes, they're Mary Janes! My dear sister-in-law from SF is bringing my babies back to me by next week. I'm beyond excited to see them in person. If everything goes according to plan, then eBay will probably become a shopping mecca to me. Thank you to stunning Ally of Fancy Kazoo for encouraging me to do this!)

the logo embossed, leather bag by Hugo Boss (You guessed it, I haven't moved my stuff from this bag to another yet ...);

and the bling.

Speaking of bling ... I won the valentine's giveaway of Denise of Denise Katipunera.

I could not believe my luck as I've never won a raffle prize in my life! It was so nice to receive the surprise in my mailbox. Thank you so much again, Denise! I'm still thinking of how to style it as it's got to be the focal point of the outfit. My fourteen year old son remarked, "You've got some nice blogger friends, Mama." Indeed, I do! Please do visit her blogsite?! You won't regret it!

I would also like to invite everyone again to join my giveaway contest which runs 'til February 28. Details on how to join here.

The Fun of a Printed Tee and the You're A Doll Award

2010-02-19T06:53:00.000-08:00

We hosted a lunch for the in-laws last Sunday. The hubby's brother from Philly is back for a visit as well, and so it was quite a good Valentine's, Kung Hei Fat Choi, and Welcome Back celebration rolled into one.

I'm unsure whether I told any of you that I've only just started to wear printed Tees. I guess I just didn't know how to treat them, clothing ensemble wise. But since I decided to just let go and follow my instincts, I've been having some fun wearing them:

Wearing a printed Tee from Topshop (Yeeees, Topshop, again! I was drawn to this one in particular because it was a black and white vintage photo of music hall girls doing the "sinful" Cancan in the Montparnasse of the 1830s. I can imagine the sheer guts of those women wilst doing a dance that was then considered outrageous and devilish!);

black studded leggings from Topshop as well (too bad the black studs are hardly visible in the picture?!);

black, satin Louboutin wannabes by Aldo;

a logo embossed, leather bag by Hugo Boss (My answer to everyone's obsession to have the LV Speedy. It's the perfect size too! Ooooh, this is one of those purchases that I had to close my eyes as the poor credit card was swiped. You know, I couldn't afford it; but went ahead and just got it. Why do we do that? Insane.);

agate and green jade cocktail ring (a closer view. I don't have too many greens in my closet. This is one of the few.);

and the rest of the bling (I love Coco Chanel's addiction to piling the sparkly things up. I had a business meeting today and was told that I was one of those naughty girls who get away with piling on the bling. I laughed and replied that accessorizing was a purely intuitive thing. You either FEEL it or you don't. I know you all so get me!).

And Yey! The You're A Doll award to pass on!

I was given the You're A Doll Award by 3 of the most bonafide, certified, rarified dolls in the blogosphere:

the beautiful Diane of Diane, who dreams of becoming famous and fabulous; but IS already! Thank you so much, Diane!

gorgeous Rachel of Inspiration in Italy, who shares her daily inspirations as she is surrounded by the bountiful art scenery that is Rome. Mille grazie, Rachel!

Imogen of Tia Cherie, a beautiful 20 year old law student who has a knack for creating amazing outfits for her multifaceted life in Sydney, Australia. Merci beaucoup, dear Imogen!

Please take time to visit their blogs? You won't regret it!

I must now pass this award along to 7 dolls:

1. Couture Carrie

2. Tabitha of Fashion Therapist

3. Fabulocity in Amish Country

4. Welcome to Fashion Court ... The Verdict Is In

5. RiaTii of Zipper - Pepper

6. Meraldia of Meraldia

7. Diana of Smiles Go With Everything

Please pass the You're A Doll Award to 7 other dolls!

My goddaughter is turning 1 tomorrow. What does one wear to a baby birthday party?!

Valentine's Day and the Happy 101 Award

2010-02-15T06:46:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day is always a day I look forward to as I've got the most romantic hubby ever! (We celebrated it on Saturday though, February 13th. We always reserve Sundays for family things and so we didn't think it that it was very amorous to celebrate the day of the hearts on a practical Sunday!)

Although it was quite a hectic day for us (we had separate appointments during the day), we still went ahead and had a continental dinner at the Tower Club, an exclusive business club in the heart of Manila's financial district.

Except for the faux fur jacket, all closet items are from many years ago: a sheer, ruffled blouse from MNG (I've had this for ages. I just couldn't figure out how to wear it 'til that morning, before I left the house. The A-line structure was putting a crimp on the slim line of the stirrup leggings. It just made more sense when I tucked it partially, right?);

black stirrup leggings from Topshop which I've had since forever (I got them originally for my traveling wardrobe; but I figured that it can be a mainstream, everyday, go-to item. Don't we all live and breathe in leggings nowadays?);

a faux fur jacket from Zara (one of the hubby's anniversary gifts to moi);

studded, leather platforms by Aldo (a christmas gift to myself. The Valentine's dinner was the stage for their debut. Although they look super amazing, I'm afraid they almost killed my feet. I have to figure out how to add cushioning somewhere!);

a super small purse by Kate Spade (Hmmm. This isn't the smallest purse yet from my small-purse-collection. Looking back, "What was I thinking?" It only housed my cellular phone and a handkerchief; nothing else could fit!);

the bling ... I say pile it on!

I am beyond fortunate to have received the Happy 101 Award from three dynamic bloggers:

One was from the effervescent Novita Ristiana. She is such a darling girl who has a fabulous penchant for colors. Please visit her blogsite; you will be amazed at her joie de vivre. It's so palpable in her pictures! Thanks again, Novita Ristiana!

Another was from the stunning Pixie Dust, whose blog is a virtual fashion journal of all of her outfit ensembles and artistic impulses. She recently egged me to do a DIY nail polishing project! Maraming, maraming salamat (meaning thank you very, very much in Filipino), Pixie Dust!

And yet another was from my new friend, Raisa aka Cameraholic of Style Fool, who gives us wizened fashion tips as well as her uncommon insights on life and anything else under the sun! Merci beaucoup, dear Raisa!

To officially receive the abovementioned, I'll have to list 10 things that make me happy. If you are so inclined, you can read my 10 things here.

I now pass on the Happy 101 Award to 10 bloggers, who make the blogosphere a very happy place to be in:

1. Jennifer Fabulous of I Know, Right?

2. Anna Jane of Pixelated Blonde

3. Style, Substance, & Sutton

4. Vintage Vixen

5. Noomie Doodles Fashion

6. Fade to Black

7. Marz of Insights

8. A Diary of a Mom and Son

9. Ces of Mom - Daughter Style

10. Viva La Fashion

I love receiving awards because it means I get to pass them along. In memory of the fashion industry's l'enfant terrible, Alexander McQueen, this is such a great way to channel positive, fashionable energy around the world!

XOXO

Acid Wash and Patent Shoes and the Princess Award

2010-02-12T06:56:00.000-08:00

We had Roey's cousins and grandmother over for a small lunch at Roey's fave Japanese resto last Sunday. It was such a happy affair ... I must say, the scrumptious Japanese food buffet put everyone in a very good mood!

What I wore: an aquamarine colored Tee from Topshop;

black-ish, acid wash leggings from Zara (I got this from "Lefties," the Zara outlet shop in Barcelona. I totally went crazy there. Don't you just find the name "Lefties," so perfect? They're selling all the items that were "leftover" from past collections. I love how we can all wear leggings cum jeggings as honest-to-goodness trousers. They're slimming and so easy on the body in terms of fit and comfort.);

black Tuxedo shoes by Cole Haan (I got these like gadzillion years ago and used them perhaps a total of 5 times only. They're so elegant. Their patent sheen somehow softened the harsh acid wash on the leggings.);

the bling;

the studded leather bag from Juicy Couture (Truthfully, I've been using this all the time because I was just too lazy to move my stuff over to another bag. Does that happen to you? Do you do that too? So I simply built my outfit around the bag itself. Loonytunes, I know...)

Yey, the Princess Award!

This lovely award was passed on to me by the stunning Mary Jane of Mary Jane Girl. Please visit her blogsite!? You won't regret it! Mary Jane lives and breathes fashion in Athens; and thinks she doesn't have gorgeous hair when she totally does!

To officially receive this award, I've got to do the following:

Give thanks to the one who has passed it on to you: Merci beaucoup, dear Mary Jane!

Name an author whom you love: Hands down, it's Gabriel Garcia Marquez.

If applicable, name an author who highlights: I have no idea what this means. If you do, please enlighten me?!

Books you love: Top of my head, "100 Years of Solitude" and "Love in the Time of Cholera" both by Gabriel Garcia Marquez, "Like Water for Chocolate" by Laura Esquivel, and "The Little Black Book of Style" by Nina Garcia.

Something that always excites you: Definitely, a great bargain from a signature shop (Hellooooo, Prada and Balenciaga!), a fantastic rehearsal, a new choreography, and brilliant classical ballet music.

Something that you hate: Insincerity, lies, and global climate change. Boo!

I now pass on this award to 7 Princesses:

1. Erika of Cafe Fashionista, who lives for New York City, cafes, cocktail rings, coffee, ballerina flats, and Gossip Girl. She also loves anything with sequins and has contributed to my many closet wishlists thus far.

2. Dream Sequins, who covers independent fashion designers and beauty brands, with the occasional foray into street style, personal style, and travel photography.

3. Denise of Denise Katipunera, who, despite living in tropical Manila, loves layering, jackets, boots, tights, and scarves. Her blogsite is a virtual mini travel channel of all of the Philippines' best tourist spots! I recently won a beautiful "heart" trinket from her in celebration of Valentine's Day ... Can't wait to get it, Denise!

4. kpeach of On the Fringe of Fashion, who, like many of us, has been fixated on fashion since forever. She says that we all discover our style through intrinsic creativity and self-exploration. How spot on is she!

5. Rachel of Inspiration in Italy. Rachel shares her daily fashion inspirations against a background of Italy's high art and captivating scenery.

6. Jen of A Little Bird Told Me, who claims to have a serious shopping habit (don't we all?!). She creates fiendish outfits with very amazing details!

7. The Style Crusader, who scrutinizes the world around her with her very meticulous and sophisticated eyes.

I'm so happy about passing on awards because there are so many here in the blogosphere who deserve more recognition for their fashion sensibilities than I.

You are all infinitely inspiring!

I would also like to invite everyone again to join my giveaway contest which runs 'til February 28. Details on how to join here.

Birthday Fun and the Kreativ Blogger Award

2010-02-09T20:58:00.000-08:00

So sorry for the long overdue post; but I've been pouring through hundreds of photos and editing articles that I'm convinced my eyes have grown more myopic by a 100 degrees! I've missed blogging and catching up with all of you. Aside from the magazine, I've been attempting to finish choreographies for my big school show next month as well as preparing for my son's 14th birthday party celebration last Saturday.

Every year since he turned 8, Roey's had a birthday tradition of sorts. He invites a small group of friends over for a whole afternoon of fun at the club; swimming, bowling, wall climbing, and whatever else they may want to do together. He's had virtually the same boys over every year.

And so every year, I am the designated coordinator (overall events facilitator, invitations designer, and loot bag organizer) for the occasion; which translates to the task being that of a glorified yaya (governess) who watches over their every whim and movement of the day! Naturally, I had to wear something über comfy:

No planning, so did the unfailing black and white combo.

A flower accessory from H&M pinned on the freebie Tee from KLM;

a mini skirt from the money pit, Topshop (I think I've had this for 8 months without having an occasion to wear it for. A-line skirts always make any movement possible!);

super cute mary janes from Topshop as well (They're a whole size larger; but did I care about that? I had to have them, as I remember correctly!);

the studded leather bag by Juicy Couture;

my Tiger's Eye cocktail ring;

and the general bling.

The other kind ladies (Mom Chelo on the left and Aunt Annie on the right) who spent the afternoon with me, watching our rowdy boys. Of course, they got loot bags too!

All in all, what a great day to turn 14!

I received the Kreativ Blogger Award from the very lovely Imogen of Tia Cherie. Please visit her blogsite; I highly recommend it! Imogen is a beautiful 20 year old law student who has a knack for creating amazing outfits for her multifaceted life in Sydney, Australia.

Thank you sooooo much, Imogen! Please keep on being my inspiration for always looking red carpet ready without breaking the bank!

I'm then asked to list seven interesting things about myself (Hmm. I'm unsure I'm even interesting?!) and pass on the Kreativ Blogger Award to seven "Kreativ" bloggers.

Here goes:

1. All my ballet lesson plans and their accompanying class music tracks are listed down on penmanship notebooks. Naturally, I have soft copies saved in two other disk drives. Due to my PC crashing on several occasions, I've learned to have a back-up for the back-up!

2. I still plan my son's outfits to somehow match my own. I wonder if he gets that?

3. My giftwrapping supply is arranged by color and material in my home office.

4. I do my son's special school projects. I can't help it. He's not a crafty sort of guy.

5. I'm addicted to the TV series, "Grey's Anatomy," "Desperate Housewives," and "Dirt." There are others; but generally, I watch them late at night to lull myself to sleep.

6. I've been using Oil of Olay and Ponds cream interchangeably since forever.

7. I named our pet Cockatiel, "Louise," after the hubby's long time girlfriend. There was just a week when I heard her being referred to for some inane reason or the other, by various unrelated people. I then thought, "Well, you're a bird now!" I thought I would hate it; but I love "Louise," and take her to her veterinarian for her monthly check up.

Boring!

I now pass on the award to 7 ultra-creative bloggers:

1. Vinda Sonata of Fashion Atelier

2. Betz of Her Armoire

3. My Strawberry Cocktail

4. F of The Very Subjective

5. Jaime of La Vie ... Jaime

6. Diane

7. Lenka of Chronique de Mode

These bloggers are all sooooo inspirational!

I would also like to invite everyone again to join my giveaway contest which runs 'til February 28. Details on how to join here.

Here's to (hopefully) no more breaks to blogging!

An Unsuccessful Shopping Ban (Boo!) and The One Lovely Blog Award

2010-02-05T08:23:00.000-08:00

So sorry for being MIA! My nose has been submerged into getting my school magazine done. It's really a tedious process; but one that gives me immense satisfaction afterwards especially when my students read it from cover to cover and discuss its contents!

Anyway, I'm posting another outfit. I used it to go visit my Mom at the hospital. I do so pray for her perfect healing. We have somehow reached that point in our relationship where she gets me and I her. At least, I think we do. I wish for all your mothers to be in perfect health and that they continue to love and nurture you the way only mothers can.

I have a secret. These two next items are the reason why I was unsuccessful at my shopping ban:

A super cute Tee (the cocky Brittish flag got me at "Hello!") and velvet grey leggings, both from Topshop (The girls at topshop kept both in my stash and since the buy-one-take-one sale would end way before my shopping ban lifted ... I had to get them ... Yes, shopping is truly my weakness ... I wish I could apply the discipline I employ in other areas of my life onto my shopping binges ... I really think that I'm out of control sometimes ... please don't ask me what else I got?! I should really be a major stockholder at Topshop. Seriously.);

the neck pieces;

a band jacket from Zara (I was a little peeved that this went up on the recent Zara sale when I got it at full retail price a few months back. I hate it when that happens. I always think, "I better get it. It's too nice not to be snatched up by everyone immediately." And voila, loads are on display at the sale rack. I don't get it. I swear, it's soooo amazing and don't let me get started at the fit ... it's perfect!);

my (when in doubt) go-to shoes: the Gucci loafers (It refuses to go out of style! They remind me so much of Jude Law's footwear in the remake of the movie, "Alfie.");

a studded leather bag by Juicy Couture;

all the everyday bling plus my very blue cocktail ring from Barcelona, citrine beads from the hubby, and my I.D. bracelet, the close-up of which comes on next.

Remember when "Sex in the City" was all the rage and our fave IT girl, SJP, brought her I.D. necklace to the forefront of all things chic? Well, I was enamoured by that trend but I couldn't find an I.D. anything that I really, really loved. So of course (ouch to the bank account again) I had my own I.D. bracelet commissioned in white gold and tiny diamonds which not only spelled my name, but the hubby's,

and the son's name too!

So, I now call this my family bracelet! Sorry about all the scratches though, it's been years. Come to think of it, scratches and dents are like memories, they just lend our things the oomph that they need. What do you think?

Aha ... for some fun. I've been holding on to this 'til I had time to post it properly. Colin of Sexy Legs and Body passed on the "One Lovely Blog" Award to me. Thank you so much, dear Colin. Please visit his blog!

Naughty but nice Colin's blogging pursuit is to prove that just about every lady can look stunning if she puts her mind to it. Naturellement, Colin! Please keep on blogging!

I now pass on this award to:

1. The Style Crusader

2. Alexi Prieto of Steam Punk Dolls

3. Kirafashion

4. Barry of Life in Quotations

5. On The Fringe Of Fashion

6. Liya of My Glittering Creation

7. Fika of Sweet Escape

8. Spoiled Rotten

9. Confessions of a Drama Queen

10. and Toni of Perfumed Red Shoes

Please pass on this award to 10 dynamic bloggers as yourselves!

I would also like to invite everyone to join my giveaway contest which runs 'til February 28. Details on how to join here.

I didn't expect that holding giveaways would be so much fun. In fact, I'm already planning my next one for all of you!

Hugs!

The Animal Print and the International Bloggers Community Tag

2010-02-01T07:03:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday was a hectic day for me ... it was my whole day pictorial for my school's upcoming ballet recital in March. I produce a magazine called "Pointe to Point" which accompanies this show instead of the usual souvenir program. The last "Pointe to Point" Mag:

I know, shooting, laying it out, and writing the articles for a magazine endeavor are a tall order and one that I have to take a deep breath for before I actually get into the groove of it; but one thing I'll have to confess to you all is that I like doing things that challenge me. Yup, I'm a nut case.

Anyway, the pictorial took almost the whole day and my whole soul, as a matter of fact. So at the end, I was quite relieved that it was all done.

Several firsts too ... I finally wore an honest to goodness animal print and in a larger per square inch area too!

Surprise, surprise! The animal print leggings were custom made for me by my school's costume maker! She really did a good job, ne ces't pas?

The white Tee was a freebie from KLM when we got stranded in Amsterdam last October. The airline provided us with the de rigueur toiletries and this Tee which I used as a nightgown. I remember not feeling disappointed about the lay-over; but instantly making a beeline for the Red Light District?! Our first time there ever!

Another first is my wearing the rubber shoes by Adidas. You may have well noticed by now that I'm not a rubber shoe kinda gal. But I did have to put them on for this occasion. I did a lot of kneeling, jumping, running around, and yikes, sweating!

The neck pieces. I must say, I'm falling in love with the Tiffany and Company key pendants more and more. Both are gifts from the hubby on our last trip to Hongkong in August 2009.

My first cocktail ring. The hubby bought it for me during our trip to Istanbul in October of 2008. I instantly fell in love with it moreso when the jeweler explained that it was a repro from a certain 17th century Maharajah. The stone is citrine and is supposed to bring the wearer much wealth. I have yet to witness this as all I've been doing since is shopping to death?!

And now, in the spirit of the recent Grammy's:

I was tagged for membership into the "International Bloggers Community" by the very original Putri Estiani of Quirk It Out, who wears a lovely bob to perfection and dreams of becoming a fashion journalist and going to Paris. I see her doing these things in no time. Please visit her blogsite, you won't regret it!

Thank you soooo much, Putri Estiani. I am beyond thrilled!

Here are the rules to joining the International Bloggers Community:

1. Link the person who tagged you.

2. Copy the image above, the rules, and questionnaire in this post.

3. Post this in one or all of your blogs.

4. Answer the four questions following these rules.

5. Recruit at least seven (7) friends on your Blog Roll by sharing this with them.

6. Go back to Bloggist Info Corner (PLEASE DO NOT CHANGE THIS LINK) at http://bloggistame.blogspot.com/ and leave your name and URL in order for your Blog to be added to the Master List.

7. Have Fun!

Questionnaire:

1. The person who tagged me : Putri Estiani

2. His/her site's title and url: http://quirkitout.blogspot.com/

3. Date when I was tagged: 24 January 2010

4. Tag 7 persons:

1. Michelle of Glisters and Blisters

2. Fhen of Little Miss Fhenny

3. Susu Paris Chic

4. Sharon of My Passport to Style

5. Tabitha

6. Julia of The Thank You Project

7. and last but certainly not the least, Elaine of Clothed Much

Please tag 7 other equally wonderful bloggers and expand our bloggers' community!

I would also like to invite everyone to join my giveaway contest which runs 'til February 28. Details on how to join here.

XOXO

My First Giveaway and The You're A Doll Award!

2010-01-28T18:53:00.000-08:00

To celebrate having reached a hundred followers, I'm hosting a giveaway. Yey!

As you know, I'm a weak-in-the-knees kinda girl when it comes to cocktail rings. I think they just give any outfit, a definitive in-your-face sort of vibe. Soooo yes, the giveaway is a cocktail ring!

A lovely turquoise stone (I think the proper term is cabochon, a convex cut for gemstones.) is set on a filigreed design made of silver. The workmanship hails from Vietnam and it is assuredly much better looking in person than it is in these photos. (Sorry about that. My lighting is off, as usual.) It covers over the first digit of your index finger which should give you an idea of it's actual size. It also has an adjustable band at the back; but I will also include a ring guard in case the winner happens to have teeny, tiny fingers.

What to do to win this beauty:

1. Please become a follower of ballerina'sclosetobsession for one entry and indicate that you have done so in your comment.

2. If you are already a follower, please let me know why you would like to have this ring. This will entitle you to one entry.

3. Please link this giveaway in a blog post for another entry and send me a message that you have done so.

4. Please include your email addy in your comment/s.

Good luck to everyone!

(A reminder: this ring is really gorgeous. My pics sadly do not do it any justice.)

I will be sending this to the winner by registered mail as soon as I get his/her mailing address.

Entries to this particular giveaway will be accepted until 28 February 2010.

And for those who do not win this sparkle, I say, don't worry, I've already got another idea for my next giveaway. I'm just currently configuring the logistics of it.

And now for some fun!

I've been given the "You're A Doll award" by Dena of Pretty Little Things, who has such a fashionable aesthetic; it's crazy that it's all jammed into one lovely person! Please visit her blogsite ... You won't regret it!

Merci beaucoup a million times, Dena!

I now pass on this award to 6 certifiable dolls of the blogosphere:

1. The Style Artisan, a savvy thrifter who creates drool worthy outfits that cost a tenth of their original price!

2. Kirstyb of Fashion Champagne. She is truly THE hautest girl in town!

3. Wonderfelle of A Wonderfelle World, who takes you to the most wonderful vacay destinations and gives you advise on which fantastic outfits to take with you as well.

4. Ibyang of A Wife's Charmed Life, a recent immigrant to Australia, who does a terrific balancing act of being a wife, homemaker, and all around fashionable girl!

5. Treacle of Confessions of a Lingerie Addict, who is my guru on all things lingerie! Those of you who are illiterate about this area of the closet, like me, will find her blogsite both educational and fun!

6. and Marissa of Chaos Kontrolowany, a teenaged fashion prodigy who is rockin' outfits for the snow!

Please pass on the "You're A Doll Award" to 6 other dolls you know?!

Slave Attire and The Over The Top Award (Hurrah!)

2010-01-25T23:20:00.000-08:00

I thankfully had an unproblematic (all things considered) performance last Sunday. It was a fundraising event to keep a public school up and running. It was quite successful. The proceeds ensured that the children would still have a school to speak of in the next few months. I was also glad that my own students (who come from more fortunate backgrounds), were able to see that their efforts could sustain relevant causes other than just the odd class or show.

There was no budget for a technical director so I had to step in as Stage Manager and overall slave of the endeavor. This meant another non fuss work outfit:

the graphic skeleton Tee from Topman (This is fast becoming a fave.);

black opaque tights underneath grey colored lace ones by Kate Torralba for City Lady, to effect leggings (The layers bring about a lovely texture to my otherwise fake or nonexistent leggings.);

my stalwart ankle boots from Gucci;

neck pieces piled one on top of the other, including my rosary from Lourdes (We Catholics are not taught to wear our rosaries around the neck. I have no idea why. This is the first time I've tried it, as a matter of fact; and well, what can be more iconic than Jesus?! He totally rocked n' rolled the outfit, don't you think?);

the bling;

and the ubiquitous alligator green bag from Fino (I love how the green pops against a monochromatic background.).

I am deliriously happy to say that I've been given the "Over The Top" Award by both Style Artisan and Jennifer of I know, Right? Please do visit both their blogsites?!

The fact that Style Artisan espouses that "personal style has no age and that self-expression through fashion should be a life long adventure," makes going to her site a worthwhile stopover. She is also such a savvy thrifter and creates drool worthy outfits that cost a tenth of their original price!

Jennifer of I Know, Right? is a talented writer who began her blog as another outlet for her creative writing propensities. She not only writes about fashion's newest escapades but also shares with us her insights on life and the working woman's many challenges.

A million thanks to the both of you for passing on this award to me. There are truly more deserving bloggers than I but the beauty of these awards is that they are in essence, passed on, and so will reach the people that they are meant to be given to, eventually.

This award comes with the following questionnaire which must be answered using (hopefully) one word replies. Here goes:

1. Where is your cell phone? Table.

2. Your hair? Black.

3. Your mother? Home.

4. Your father? Cary-Grant-Incarnate.

5. Your favorite food? Sushi.

6. Your dream last night? I forget.

7. Your favorite drink? Water.

8. Your dream/goal? Reach my potential as a teacher and artistic director.

9. What room are you in? Home office.

10. Your hobby? Blogging and designing dance costumes.

11. Your fear? An early death. (My son is too young to lose a mother.)

12. What do you want to be in 6 years? Successfully running my two schools by remote control.

13. Where were you last night? Home.

14. Something you aren't? Selfish.

15. Muffins? I don't eat them.

16. Wish list item? Balenciaga platforms.

17. Where did you grow up? Manila

18. Last thing you did? Got costume supplies.

19. What are you wearing? Topshop Tee and XOXO shorts.

20. Your TV? Upstairs.

21. Your pets? Louise, the Cockatiel.

22. Your friends? Perfect.

23. Your life? Busy.

24. Your mood? Anxious about another show.

25. Missing someone? Dad.

26. Vehicle? Van.

27. Something you're not wearing? Make-up.

28. Your favorite store? Topshop.

29. Your favorite color? Navy blue.

30. When was the last time you laughed? Sunday.

31. Last time you cried? New Year's Day 2008.

32. Your best friend? Indispensible.

33. One place where I go over and over again? Ballet studio.

34. One person who emails me regularly? Friends.

35. Favorite place to eat? Nishijin.

Phew. That was long. I would like to pass on this award to 10 of my fave bloggers:

1. the effervescent Novita Ristiana. She is such a darling girl with a fabulous penchant for colors.

2. naughty Colin of Sexy Legs and Body whose blogging pursuit is to prove that just about every lady can look stunning if she puts her mind to it. Yes, to Colin!

3. the lovely Pixie Dust whose blog is a virtual fashion journal of all of her outfit ensembles and artistic impulses. She recently egged me to do a DIY nail polishing project!

4. unique Putri Estiani of Quirk It Out who dreams of becoming a fashion journalist and going to Paris. I can see her doing both in no time!

5. stylish Dena of Pretty Little Things who has such a fashionable aesthetic; it's crazy that it's all jammed into one lovely person!

6. Diana of Color Dye Mode who loves vintage clothing with a passion and mixes it up with her 90s punk rock inclinations.

7. Graham of Suck My Savvy, who is I believe, one of the best dressed men in the blogosphere. He also has a spot on feel for proportions which I think all males should refer to when stuck with the what-to-buy-and-what-not-to buy clothing mode.

8. the very creative Style Bird who composes the winning-est teenage outfits ever!

9. Corie of My Taste Indeed, a super Mom who lives life the way she thinks is right and the outfits to go with it.

10. Simply Chic, a shoe buyer who happens to be way more into clothes than shoes. And yes, she is simply chic!

Kindly accept this award, answer the questionnaire, and pass it on to 10 other amazing bloggers like yourselves?!

Kisses, everyone!

Anniversary Blast and the Princess Award

2010-01-22T22:56:00.000-08:00

We had such a blast with our closest friends at our 15th anniversary party last night.

This was before everyone else arrived at the appointed middle Eastern cuisine resto in Makati (Manila's business district) ...

People quickly trickling in ...

Trying to make the night last longer ...

I cannot describe to you what a heartwarming affair it was. We were surrounded by people whom we loved and genuinely loved us back. What greater gift can we have for our anniversary? (Ooooh ... the hubby surprised me with yet a second gift ... a gorgeous ring set in black and white diamonds ... can't wait to show you! Hmmm. The first gift was one that I had bought earlier for myself and he had paid for ... 2 faux fur jackets from Zara!)

Wore the trustworthy long sleeved, cotton voile shirt from MNG (I know I've worn this like a million times. They're just so versatile. Truth be told, I love this so much that I got replicas of it from MNG's subsequent collections ... you know, in case this one gives up on me for some reason?!);

a distressed, denim mini-skirt from Topshop (I've had this since forever; the A-line structure of it falls so perfectly on the hips!);

thigh high stockings from Japan;

platforms from Michael Kors (I've always wanted to do animal print; but each time I attempted to, it always seemed to engulf me. And so I thought, the only solution to the mind and gut blockage is to do it in baby steps. Voila ... animal print in my platforms. I felt totally myself ... neither over or underwhelmed! Perhaps next time, I can try doing a larger area of animal print? My fingers AND toes are crossed. Roar!);

a logo bag from Gucci (I remember getting this as a prize to myself after I had successfully organized the first ballet ensemble competition in the country in 2008. Of course, I didn't do it singlehandedly. I had some help; but chairing the affair was so stressful that I decided some form of motivation was in order ... hence the bag purchase above!);

and the "Hope Diamond" on my finger! (NOT! Just a fun cocktail ring the hubby got for me on a business trip to Singapore last year.)

And now for the best part! I was given the "Princess" Award by Jasna of Fashion Jazz. Please visit her blogsite; you won't regret it! Jasna lives the life we dream about! She maintains a column in Style Scoop and has regular invis to all the best fashion events in Cape Town. She is in the hub, mon amis!

To officially receive this award, I've got to do the following:

Give thanks to the one who has passed it on to you: Merci beaucoup, dear Jasna!

Name an author whom you love: Hands down, it's Gabriel Garcia Marquez.

If applicable, name an author who highlights: I have no idea what this means. If you do, please enlighten me?!

Something that always excites you: Definitely, a great bargain from a signature shop, a fantastic rehearsal, a new choreography, and brilliant classical ballet music.

Something that you hate: Insincerity, lies, and global climate change. Boo!

I now pass on this award to 7 lovely bloggers:
1. Erika of Cafe Fashionista, who lives for New York City, cafes, cocktail rings, coffee, ballerina flats, and Gossip Girl. She also loves anything with sequins and has contributed to my many closet wishlists thus far.
2. Fleur of Fashion Nutty, who regales us with her wizened insights on fashion, magic, Harry Potter, music, chocolate, and lots of H&M! Like you and I, she loves the incomparable Gabrielle Chanel.
3. Patty Ann of Alphabetachic, my inspiration for the animal print, although I've done mine in a teeny weeny dosage.
4. B a la Moda, a ferocious fashion fiend from Spain.
5. Sher of Beneath the Crystal Stars, who creates some of the most stunning street looks ever.
6. Dream Sequins, who covers independent fashion designers and beauty brands, with the occasional foray into street style, personal style, and travel photography.
7. Leia of Hi Fashion, who has got to be one of the best dressed girls London has ever seen.

I'm so happy about passing on other awards because there are so many here in the blogosphere who deserve more recognition for their fashion sensibilities than I.

Thank you to everyone for your anniversary greetings! It can't get any better than receiving warm wishes from wonderful bloggers from all over the world!