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18 September 2011

Green Products at #Blogapalooza

More than 50 presenters were in attendance at the recent Blogapalooza but what got my attention are these brands who've injected green in their operations. I am a fan of free trade goods but always seek to patronize local brands made within the country. These products do not travel miles to get here, that means less carbon footprints while providing jobs for the Filipinos.



1. Human heart Nature - their products are 100% Pro-Philippines, Pro-Poor, and Pro-Environment. All their raw materials are thoroughly researched to ensure that they are naturally derived, are not processed using environmentally toxic processes and do not become toxic when released into the environment. They also use recyclable bottles in their packaging to minimize our contribution to the country’s overburdened landfills. Natural is good for you, so I am thrilled to have these Human heart Nature lip balm and sanitary spray. As always, only buy what you need.



2. Tree Hugger - Can you remember how many pens you've lost? The barrels made of plastic end up feeding the landfill and no matter how cheap these ballpens cost, the expense it tolls the environment is huge. Enter Tree Hugger pens - quality pens and highlighters out of recycled cartons and biodegradable plastic, and pencils made out of old newspapers. They are a growing trend and are available at National Bookstore.

They also partnered with the HARIBON FOUNDATION so that every pen and pencil you buy not only decreases plastic wastes and saves trees through the use of recycled paper and of biodegradable materials; you also contribute to the reforestation of our country through the GIVE A GIFT TREE DRIVE.




3. Healthy First - is a refreshments and foods manufacturer that use carrots and other local crops for their products. I personally tasted the carrot juice in four seasons flavor and it was delish! They come in plastic bottles though but are a healthier alternative to just drinking water. We need the betacarotene to ward off toxic. My husband also received a carrot loaf from Healthy First and I cannot wait to try it. Using available vegetables and incorporating them into pastries is my way to reduce food waste. I've baked dozens of banana bread and loaves to save bananas from spoilage and become healthier.



4. Oryspa - is a spa products supplier, their products are made from rice bran oil - so there's natural for you. Our swag included Oryspa natural baby powder and a balm with a minty eucalyptus scent. It's also 100% Filipino under Kutitap Aromatherapy Crafts, a reputable manufacturer of candles and a training institution of home-based alternative crafting.



5. Easy Phamax Wheat Grass - literally green, I am a wheat grass afficionado and there's no other way for me but to buy the Honey Wheat Grass powder from Easy Phamax. It makes me feel good instantly, especially after gorging up empty calories. To save the earth from sachets, buy them by the bulk. I buy a tub of Honey Wheat Grass (made of carton and tin) and send the empty tubs to the recycler.

Why don't you give these green products a try the next time you run out of beauty products, pens, and healthy drinks? :) You can also check out websites like Ethical Ocean for educating blogs about being green.


Fashion Bloggers at the Blogapalooza

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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

P9178333

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

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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.



12 September 2011

Fashion Armageddon? Buy less and only what you need

Last week, Patagonia challenged other fashion retailers with their Common Threads Initiative with eBay. "This program first asks customers to not buy something if they don't need it."



"If they do need it, we ask that they buy what will last a long time -- and to repair what breaks, reuse or resell whatever they don't wear any more. And, finally, recycle whatever's truly worn out." - says Yvon Chouinard, Patagonia's founder and owner.

I think times are changing, this is a radical campaign by Patagonia but one they can afford as they've been around for many years. We can no longer ignore how shallow it is to be killing animals, cutting trees, and polluting the environment just to wear the latest fashion.

With the financial crisis too, would you rather have your money in your closet or in your pocket?

My sister told me Marithé + Francois Girbaud once offered claiming back old jeans to exchange with new ones for customers. I am interested to know, and surely you will too - about other fashion brands who are changing the way things are.

Blogger's note: I am aware this blog is changing course and I'll just let it naturally :)


08 September 2011

Event: The Ultimate Taste Test at Rockwell

It's that one event anticipated by all foodies and fans of Mr. Awesome Planet every year and for the first time, the Ultimate Taste Test was held inside the Rockwell Tent. Bigger and much more accessible, personally speaking.





I came prepared with the Foodie Guide written by Anton himself, it's not everyday you can play the role of a food critic - armed with a score sheet as if you were judging in Master Chef. I won't keep this post long, so here are some of the winners in my list:



#17- Luigi's Muhlach and not because his mom, Janice de Belen was there but for the savory Chicken cordon bleu with a choice of aligue mayo, cream cheese or wasabi sauce, Phillychanga



#30- Spring by Ha Yuan
I discovered how Lychee can offer a crunchy element to KaPao. KaPao: Pulled pork, Braised short rib, Lychee and Sesame crusted Teriyaki tofu.



#27-Joy's Fuzion Kitchen (JFK) we seem to have the same recipe of Fried Chicken wings!

And there are loads of desserts like pastries, cheesecakes, and frozen yoghurt. My choice for the ultimate ice cream is Merry Moo! They are inventive with their Brown Bread artisan ice cream.



For cupcakes, these definitely stand out in both presentation, quality, and flavor:



Cupcake Boutique by Klar Joseph. The green tea/matcha cupcake is my favorite because it looks like a contradiction of a sinful bite and a healthy treat.



For coffee, I only tried El Kapitan and their Spiced Chai was refreshing indeed.


Oh man ~

I was defeated by all the 55 stalls, never completed my score sheet and resorted to a stroll inside Powerplant Mall to burn all the calorific goodness from the Ultimate Taste Test. This occasion is definitely a memorable one to all food lovers and cook. See you all again next year!



Congratulations folks!


05 September 2011

Krispy Kreme opening day at Filinvest Mall

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On Friday night, the Krispy Kreme Hotlight lit up the South as it opened its doors to doughnut hungry customers for the first time at Alabang Festival Mall. It rained Krispy Kreme doughnuts and coffee to the kids and adults delight.



Of course, me and Ash were present. Our ultimate favorite is the Original Glazed.



Since the store is inside Filinvest Mall, we also had a blast strolling kiddie leisure spots inside. In between doughnut bites :) We promised to come back on a weekend.



Proud and fresh staff of the 24th Krispy Kreme branch in the Philippines.

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We trooped home with half dozen of our favorite Krispy Kreme and another Krispy Kreme experience :)

"Krispy Kreme is a brand that Filipinos know well and love.. We are very happy to finally open our first store in the SOuth with the intent of sharing the delectable Krispy Kreme experience across the nation" - Mark Gamboa, Marketing Manager of Krispy Kreme Philippines.


27 August 2011

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:

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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.

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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.

vintage skirtsvintage skirt


















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


18 August 2011

Shopping: Forever 21 SM Makati goes on Sale

The best time to get a new wardrobe is during a SALE.

One of the best places to get them is Forever 21.

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Aug 19 10AM-12nn:
10% off on regular priced items when you use your SM Advantage Card/BDO Rewards/SM Prestige Card

20% off on regular priced items when you use both your F21 Mastercard and SM Advantage Card/BDO Rewards/SM Prestige Card, with min purchase of P5K net of discounts

Aug 19-21: 10% off on regular priced items when you use your F21 Mastercard, with min purchase of P5K net of discounts

Aug 19-21: 5% rebate when you use any BDO credit card, with min purchase of P5K net of discounts

Forever 21 Mastercard holders can get in as early as 8:30am. Just present 1 valid I.D. to enter. One entry per card.



17 August 2011

Beauty: Zit Busters

I just feel like sharing products I am and only using at the moment.
I wish I am using more actually but oddly, these two work well to make zits go bust.
It's funny how it came down to 2 products when I used to have an arsenal of skin stuff.

1. Pond's Clear Solutions (I loved the Pond's White Beauty Naturals too, then I ran out).

http://www.cosmo.ph/images/articles/article/Star_Style/000andipondsmain.jpg
Cool mommy-to-be Andi Eigenmann endorses it.

2. Lacticare Lotion - this thing belongs to my 1 yo son and whenever I get red patches or bumps, I just steal some of it.

SAM_0728

This one endorsed by the pediatrician.

I should definitely get back on my regular regimen but for now, this duo works just fine.



No new clothes or fancy shoes, just life.



Get offline, start living.


You can start in Nuvali at Sta. Rosa Laguna.
Although there's more to life than shopping, you may fancy a stroll in Solenad 2 where stores like Nine West, Hush Puppies, and Payless Shoe Store can be found.

Find peace and quiet at Indulgence Spa.
I recommend their P250 chair massage.




02 August 2011

SM Accessories| City Safari by WWW

When it's raining, we wish it's summer. We wish we are not stuck indoors and can brave the city jungle. So what would you wear? Take a cue from the latest collections available from SM Accessories. Rawr.

I've taken the liberty to mark all the items I LIKE from their poster.

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I just realized how cool it is to be able to pick out items from a poster, that should save us time browsing at SM. Worry not because 99% of the time, all items in their ads are really available on the racks. Take it from me, your Department Store insider ;)

Animal print headband - is a Hollywood staple. Here's how Ms. Hilton works it:

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And it reminds me of you guessed it, Rachel Zoe.

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It really brings attention to the face, so before putting it on make sure you have the right hair and makeup. Tie your hair back for a slimming effect unless you have really good hair like Paris. Prints are explosive and does not go well with Einstein hair. Keep it sleek and clean.


Lace's Bib Necklace from SM Accessories, WWW PHP 299

Bib Necklaces - I hereby declare them as classic pieces because they were once a trend and has managed to stay on. In my wardrobe at least. I've written many many times how a P199 bib necklace (most of my collection came from SM) can make old ensembles shout fasyon! in an instant.

In fact, I love how my necklace (photo shown above) I bought from SM Accessories enliven an old outfit last week.

Cocktail Rings - are great for casual wear, I feel like royalty when I am wearing one. Save for it's quiet hard to work and write with them. Definitely for fun and non-working days.



Now here's your assignment, which do you like from this other poster from SM Accessories' Q3 collection?

They also have an ongoing promotion because hey, it's Women's Month! :) Get a free shower caddy for every P 1,000 purchase at SM Accessories.

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/284431_10150251611766727_291083781726_7932340_6668433_n.jpg

Only from August 1 to 31, 2011. Happy shopping readers! :)