What's a Roxy Girl?

When I hear the brand Roxy, images of surfer chicks come to mind, add to that the movie Blue Crush starring Kate Bosworth. One weekend I was at Nuvali and checked out their newest branch, lo and behold - real surfer girls!



This is Roxy, who conveniently has the same name as the brand she manages. With her is Sprint Asia's Denisse.



Another au naturale beauty from the Roxy staff. I started to think, is fitness and beauty one of the credentials? Take note, all of them are either into surfing or wake boarding. Really cool.

Any lady who sees them will quickly consider to become active in sports if it will yield the same wonderful skin and physique like what these Roxy girls have. The store is complete with merchandise both functional and stylish.



The essentials of any Roxy girl will definitely include a rash guard and as I've added surfing to my long bucket list, I ended up getting a pink Roxy rash guard (and some other Roxy girl stuff). I mentioned this before, but rash guards are great swimming attire if you want to swim in peace and without worrying of nip/butt-slips what have you.

Roxy is not just about having an active lifestyle, according to Roxy (the cute brand manager). Roxy is all things fun, chic, and stylish too!



Here's a cropped tee I got from Roxy, as it was light and comfy it was perfect for a sunny day out with my one and only descendant. We DID have our own adventure :)

Aside from sports gear, Roxy houses a lot of comfy dresses in print, cropped shirts, bags, flipflops, and so much more. The items easily let you celebrate summer anytime at all - even if it rains cats and dogs.

Are you a Roxy girl? Check out their Facebook Page to know more about the brand and where to locate their stores.

SM Department Store Holiday Fashion

How many parties are you attending this season? One, two, perhaps your fingers are not enough to count. Holiday means reuniting with family and friends, frenemies included ;) So I am sure the big question is, what are you going to wear?



If you're smart you know you don't have to cut an arm and a leg to afford updated and chic cocktail dresses. And that's why I am sharing with you these ultra-chic pieces from (drumroll please) SM Department Store! Take note, most cost between Php 300-Php 1,000.



Gorgeous artistic prints will make you stand out instantly

And classic plain pieces is the perfect attire to wow. Match it with your favorite jewelry.

Below is perfect if you have "belofied" arms, I don't *yet*

I like this too, comfy and carefree look with the right pop of color

Which of the items above do you fancy? There's more inside the SM Department Store - I'd recommend the one in Southmall because it's newly refurbished. Last time I went, every ultra fasyon pieces were available :)

Shopping shopping shopping!

Fashion Bloggers at the Blogapalooza

I know I shouldn't be here anymore (especially I was wearing my Maria la del Barrio, peasant look) but it was great to see the new & improved breed of Manila fashion bloggers!

They're all so young, vibrant, and skinny. @diannedequina @paxieness @artsyava @anagon @thestyleandsoul @earthlingorgeous me: @lacellanora



My blogging friends, long time - no see.. And that's a full shot of my outfit.


Inspiration

On that note, I super love my fashion experiment that day. It's not what you wear but how you wear it. Perhaps I can get away with a trash bag next time? That's a joke.

Peasant Look: Maria la del Barrio's Skirts - vintage, worn, recycled.

I am hooked on this teleserye starring Erich Gonzales and I couldn't help notice how cute Maria la del Barrio's skirt is! Check this photo from their Facebook Page:



Actually there was one episode I am sure the skirt she was wearing appears to be old clothes sewn together. It was very unique and took the peasant look to a whole new level. Now that I am all about recycling and tree hugging, I can't wait to start my own DIY skirt from old clothing items.


image credit: Hibari

The result will be a playful, flirty piece similar to Besty Johnson's :) I also found this inspiration here. See the lady in the middle is working the look I am currently hitting on.




















These are my own vintage skirts though not made of old clothes but they came from my mom's :)

Fashion: So you wanna look like a celeb

Not just a celeb, but a celeb in New York, possibly who sidelines as a stylist like my mother Rachel Zoe. Obviously I've been watching too much of her and The Kardashians (got my eyes on Kim) while drinking Coke Zero. Feels like a very bad vice ain't it?

But here's my personal lowdown on how to put together a celebrity look.

1. Quality - there are a sea of clothes out there but quality stands out. Quality in terms of fabric, measurements, and design. Surely you've experienced finding a style that stands out but doesn't fit well. Check the tag, you're right - you get what you pay for.



There's a reason why branded clothes are expensive and that includes quality checks and hours spent to get the right fit per size.

Above are some bcbg pieces I found on Bluefly.com who retails designer and branded clothes online. They also have bcbg shoes like below:





2. Stand out on heels and platforms - rarely do I find celebs wearing flats, indeed they need to literally stand out and tall in a sea of normal human beings. Boots are natural love for me but closed shoes are also flexible and more comfortable than open toe stilettos/platforms.




3. Accessorize with drama - huge Jackie O shades, glasses, statement necklaces
and cocktail rings are never out of fashion. Clothes are just clothes until you personalize them with your own jewelry.

Turquoise is tricky to wear but adds a classic/goddess effect everytime. Gold links add weight to light fabric and anything with pearls is a great contrast to dark pieces.

Shop for these pieces at Bluefly.com, they have international shipping so checkout the FAQs depending on which country you are in. DHL and UPS are their shipping options, superb :)

Fashion: Capes for the Rainy Days

My fashionable alter ego gets excited every time it rains. Layering, boots, and capes! Other cities have been there caped that but in Manila, seldom do I see femme fatales getting comfy in trench and twill.

I think their sweet and perfect, don't you? If you watched Little Red Riding Hood, plus points for you.


Capes from Diane Von Furstenberg, Sacai, and Nordstorm.

My international friends who study in Online Colleges can't live without these, they are fashionable staples in winter. Above is an attempt (yet again) to make a set in Polyvore, I just can't work it and wish I was signed up for online degree programs in graphic design.

Going back, these pieces are great with boots. Now don't be tempted to purchase cheap boots from the flea market (the truth hurts) and used clothing shops. First, they are not worth the investment and boots need to be sturdy, reliable, and comfy. Most I've seen are synthetic leather which can peel off during an inconvenient time. Embarrassing.

Wear the capes + boots with skinny jeans, faux leather tights otherwise it will be too warm, or even shorts + dark leggings. Now who wouldn't enjoy the rainy days when you are fashionably geared up?

Some stores worth checking out and might have these goods: Zara, Mango, Terranova, and Nine West for the boots.

On a side note, this post reminds me of opportunities in finding an education abroad where there are actually four seasons! You may want to check out http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/ for some information on student aid.

Nike Sportswear x Sandwich Rocks the Perfect Summer Style

Someone just nailed the perfect summer attire, I am not a fan, but it is Sandwich who recently collaborated with Nike.



The laid back, flowing, and rocker lifestyle fashion maintained funkiness and functionality. Just look at Myrene (whom I recall as my daily NU 107 DJ) sporting a simple loose shirt with white shorts, and a pair of sneakers.

This style is much like what I wear nowadays, who has time to work complicated clothes and dresses right? Or maybe I am just stressed but thank you Nike for declaring this as a summer style that rocks!



Enjoy the rest of the Nike Sportswear 2011 lookbook :)

Fashion: My Readers Rock Red Box | Ongoing Promo

Only 4 more days to go until the end of our Red Box Rock, Dine, and Roll promo! Here are the latest entries from my fantastic readers:



Tiffany Sy sent her photo from a rock band battle event

I remember I had rock band shirts when in College that I loved pairing with denim skirts. My sister Joni also had a rocker phase and she almost completed all shirts from Metallica and Bush. I love 90's rock music :)



and Rhodora Valdez sent her photo wearing her favorite rocker shirt

If you join this promo and win, you will be treated like a billionaire rock star and sing with Travis McCoy and Bruno Mars, plus all the other hit makers while enjoying delicious food from Red Box!

Again, one winner will win this package while 9 more winners will receive a free head charge from Red Box. I can't wait to rock, dine, and roll myself and treat my family and friends with yummy dishes like the must-try california maki rolls, and my favorite buffalo wings!

Whenever I am at Red Box, I can't help but focus on the food and the free WiFi. So hard to pick a song to sing, especially when I don't have time to listen to the radio. I'd stick with old rock songs then :) What are you singing if you win?

Rock and Roll!

Fashion: Swimwear Features Tattoo Art! Freeway Summer Collection

Nothing translates summer like than Freeway’s chic and trendy summer collection. In this year’s edition, Freeway once again collaborated with designer Twinkle Ferraren for its hand-painted Tattoo Swimwear Summer 2011 Collection.



The most loved and everlasting form of art and expression is reinvented into something more wearable. Freeway’s Tattoo-Inspired Collection is striking and definitely hot!



Tattoo lovers can take their passion for the ink to the waves or just casually lounge pool side while looking stylish. The collection inspired by tribal and tropical tattoos includes mix of strong with vibrant colored statement, sporty, functional and active-wear inspired pieces and cover-ups.



Swimwears are mixed with mesh materials and tattoos printed on the suit, perfect for those who love to try new sports and activities in the beach. Twinkle describes the collection as “a modern and female version of the Pintados and tribes”.

Fashion: Red Box Rockstars | Ongoing Promo

And here are our latest rock stars! Remember, the Red Box Rock, Dine, and Roll promo is ongoing and there are 10 prizes to be given away which includes a free rock star package at Red Box complete with head charge and buffet for you and your friends.



John Carlo Gertes says "Rockstar is in my blood. I love listening to rock songs and sing them with my whole heart".



And Ria Hazel with her Cindi Lauper outfit!

"I was dressed here just like Cyndi Lauper (with all the colorful embellishments) because she's the ultimate girl rockstar during her time. Oh and I agree that "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun, so if I'd win, I can treat my girlfriends for a Rockstar Party! :)"

Thanks for joining guys! So far I only got 4 entries and I have TEN prizes to giveaway! Read the contest mechanics here. Rock on :D

Fashion: Ensembles Sultry Summer interview with Carmina Villaroel | Muñiz Shoe Designer

Here is the latest one on one interview with Ensembles celebrity endorser and ultra fashionista, Carmina Villaroel. I didn't know she was a shoe designer until that local TV commercial revealed. Carmina has and successfully, blossomed into a fashion icon that can give any model a run for their money.


Carmina models for her own shoe line

Personally, I love her sophisticated, high-fashion, and age-appropriate style. Admittedly, I was never a fan of Ensembles only until Carmina became their endorser.

What was the experience like for your photoshoot for Ensembles Summer 2011 Campaign? Are you enjoying your new tanned look? As always, I had fun during the shoot. I always look forward to our photo shoots. I love working with my dream team- Mark Nicdao, Robbie P. and Pam Quinones. I love what Pam did to me for the summer look. Fab tan!


Ensembles Sultry Summer Collection

Since you have very fair skin, has it been hard to maintain your skin and keep it healthy-looking during summer? Oh yes, I always take good care of my skin and try to have that sun-kissed look but with my skin tone, it can be difficult to maintain a tan. Back in high school, I attempted to get a tan when I went to Boracay but I failed. I just looked like a lobster. My skin turned red and got sun burned.



What are your thoughts on Ensembles Sultry Summer 2011 collection? I’m a big fan of vibrant, bold colors! I love the entire collection. My super fave is the one-shouldered coral dress I wore during our shoot.


What are your personal styles and favorite outfits during summer season? During summer I love wearing shorts, comfy shirts, tank top, sun dress, flowing skirts, sandals and flip flops.


What are your summer plans for this year? Hopefully, to go on vacation with my whole family either here to Cebu or Bohol or travel overseas.


We keep getting good feedbacks on the Muñiz Shoes! How is it working with Ensembles for your Muñiz shoe line? And what was the experience like for you to personally visit each store to arrange the shoe display? I was so thrilled when Ensembles agreed to put my shoes at their store. I was so excited to fix and arrange my shoes. It’s a dream come true for me to see my shoes finally at the mall. I'm thankful to those who bought my shoes already. My Ensembles family was so supportive of my business-Muñiz shoes. I appreciate all the help they have provided.


Do you plan to make your shoes available to more Ensembles stores? Yes. I will definitely make Muñiz shoes available to other Ensembles stores. Due to a lot of requests, we will also showcase them at Robinson’s Ermita and SM Megamall.

Fashion: Girly Flats for Summer | What to Wear them With

Summer is the best time to be girly with floral prints and bright sundress, but have you considered flats yet? Give your tootsies a break from wedges because summer means fun care-free fashion. I've took it upon me to give you the latest summer flats in stores now (perfect for summer flirting!):



Penshoppe P599

Pink pinstripe flats to make any feet look slim. Peep toes are sexy if your feet is neat, so make sure you go have a pedicure first :)

Best worn with: a subtle top and denim shorts.



Penshoppe P599

Floral peep toes add an instant romance to any outfit. Match this pair with bright red nail polish (try Revlon's Fire and Ice) and be the summer envy :)

Best worn with: your white sundress and a floral summer hat.



Check out this printed summer hat by  Ted Baker <3

Lastly, if you are on the practical side you can grab this pair of white flats with subtle floral prints. They are more flexible and can be worn easily with any of your summer outfits.



Penshoppe P599

These peep toe summer flats from Penshoppe instantly let you step into girly mode and that's what we love about fashion! :)

P.S. You may now find me (your wicked fashion blogger) on Facebook.

Fashion: Be Bikini Wise! Bikini Solutions for Summer Bikini Problems

This blog is full of summer and the only thing missing is an actual sun tan spot on my skin! I am sure we're all excited to hit the sand and inhale the ocean scenery. Though many of us dread the thought of wearing a swimsuit.

It could be that you are conservative or have forgotten to slim down, hence the tummy rolls and arm shingles. Skin problems also take the limelight every summer, like stretch marks, back acne, etc.

Before you get frustrated, inhale and know that there are several swimwear solutions to every problem I mentioned above!

Bikini solution #1 : Rashguard

Sassa, Php 599.75 available in S-XL sizes

Wear this if you are conservative or want to hide imperfections. Most common are body acne, rashes, and even dark armpits. Embarrassing but these are real life scenarios which must be addressed! A rash guard will make you carefree and comfy to enjoy summer without any concern.

Perfect for moms swimming with their children too, avoid bikini malfunctions and peek-a-boos with this piece.

Bikini Solution #2: One Piece Swimsuit

Sassa, P649.75 available in S-L sizes

The scenario: tummy stretchmarks and note that not only mothers get them! This design also gives you a sexier and slimmer silhouette.

Bikini Solution #3: Bright Colors

Sassa, Php 599.75 available in S-XL sizes

If you find yourself every summer wearing dark colors in an attempt to look small, you MUST try brights this year. Not only will you pop on the beach but for sure, your summer photos will be worthy to be posted on your FB wall.

Bright swimwear with the right patterns will help you look more radiant and distract attention from areas of concern (read: giant thighs). It also looks a lot more fun which gives you the license to bask on the beach carefree!

Bikini Solution #4 - Mix and Match


Penshoppe, P499 each

In terms of size, rarely do our torso/bust match the size of our bums. Like me, my top would usually be M or L, but my bum would always score an XL. Thanks to Penshoppe, you can mix and match bikinis of any color and any size, saving you from splurging on a bikin that won't fit you right.

Thank me later! :)

Fashion: For Work and Play

In the new world I've created, most tasks are done online or via phone. Hence I seldom have to dress up unless I have to be physically present like last week. I can't hide how excited I am to let myself out of my home office (still work-related though), I even bought a new red dress - for luck.



What do you think? Salamat doc for giving me back my pre-pregnancy armpits, I've rediscovered no sleeves. Dress from Folded & Hung.

I visited Penshoppe in Megamall too, they've lots of new items for summer like this hat.



And these classic flats. I got a pink pair for just Php 500 +. They remind me of my Steve Madden shoes, only Penshoppe's are a lot more affordable! I got too excited though and after an hour walking, I realized the size I got were smaller than my feet.

Now if only the human body does not require sleep, I'd be the happiest person on earth! More time please :)

Fashion: Fearless Forecast on What Dresses to Buy Right Now

Our metro lifestyle keeps us moving from one place to the next without time to spare for an outfit change. A simple shirt and a pair of trusty jeans is great for the weekend, but I've seen women in distress simply because they weren't' dressed' to the occasion, and usually what is required is a literally a 'dress'. It could be for an impromptu meeting with the bosses, clients, or a cocktail event you forgot about.


Bottega Veneta from resort wear 2011

My personal solution to this is find a middle ground type of dress that can pass as both casual and formal piece of clothing. I seldom encounter bookings that need a strict formal attire, rather, most occasions nowadays appreciate semi-formal or cocktail wear.

Right this moment I am observing sleeveless knee-length dresses with subtle folded overlays, tulle trim, or ruffles. Compared to the previous year's ruffles and oversized big bang, the keyword this 2011 is 'subtlety' (in my opinion). 2010 was inspired very well by big details, Lady Gaga fashion that it is no longer exceptional.


Calvin Klein from spring 2011

I am starting to think that beige is the silent colour of the year, a far contrast from the previous black mega trend. Though my advice is to add color to your closet this year, check out the above photo of the Calvin Klein dress in red. Yummy!

Slender arms are still in and so is thin. So continue reading on a fitness blog to get a dose of fashion and weight loss. They are twins. I must work on my diet and so should you. No excuses or no fashionable dresses ;)

Some stores where you can find dresses like these on the local scene: Penshoppe, Folded and Hung, Plains & Prints, or try both SM and Robinsons Department Stores - surely you will find your IT dress from them all.