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EVENT: Best Cebu Blogs 2014 Awards
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OUTFIT: Sanuk Sundays
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OUTFIT: Pajama Trousers
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OUTFIT: Summer Crush
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5 Ways to Refresh Your Wardrobe for Spring
Out with the Old
The first step to a wardrobe overhaul is getting rid of anything you no longer want, need, or wear on a regular basis. A good rule of thumb to go by is if you haven’t worn an article of clothing in a year, it’s time to toss it. As Oprah.com suggests in this post, a handy trick for identifying those garments you haven’t worn in a while is doing the following: First, turn all the clothes hanging in your closet so the hangers face away from you (the “wrong” way); then, after you wear an article of clothing, hang it back up facing the correct way. After six months or a year, check your hangers—anything that is still turned the wrong way should be considered as good as gone.
Invest in Timeless Staples
Some styles go in and out with each season while others stand the test of time. Make sure your wardrobe strikes a balance between the two for ultimate versatility. Look for quality staples like collared button-ups, a sleek blazer, neutral trousers, a little black dress (or two), an all-season coat, and dark-wash denim. These pieces will last you through the years, and each season. That’s not to say you can’t (or shouldn’t!) shop the latest trends, because pairing what’s in now with timeless pieces is an easy way to keep your outfits looking fresh and in step with current fashion.
Wear the Right Undergarments
Undergarments act as the foundation to every outfit you wear. When they fit correctly, the clothing on top gets an instant boost, creating a more flattering shape and overall look. Unfortunately, the opposite is also true, as any woman who has owned an ill-fitting bra can attest to. As Adam & Eve notes in this guide, there are three factors that contribute to the perfect bra fit: the band, cup, and straps. In some cases, it can be helpful to visit a lingerie store for a professional fitting, but if you’re in a pinch, think about your bra size in terms of fruit. For instance, if your girls are about the size of plums, you’re likely an AA or smaller. Lemons are an A, oranges a B, grapefruit a C, and melons a D. Once you’re wearing the right bra and other undergarments, the rest of your outfit will fall into place.
Take Care of Your Clothes
No matter how much money you spend on your outfits, if you don’t care for your clothing properly, it will show. When in doubt about how to wash an article of clothing, look to the laundering instructions usually found on the tag. Now, this is where it can get tricky. If the tag is all words—no symbols—you’re in luck! Proceed to wash and dry (or dry clean) as stated. The symbols, on the other hand, are often indecipherable for the average person, complicating the laundering process immensely. Use this laundry guide from Textile Affairs for a headache free approach to clean clothes.
Accent with Accessories
Sometimes, a shopping spree is simply out of the question. If you’re on a tight budget when revamping your wardrobe, accessories can provide the boost you need without breaking the bank. Layer necklaces and bracelets for an eclectic look or opt for a chunky statement piece. Pair belts, shoes, and handbags you already own with outfits you wouldn’t normally wear these items with for a completely different look.
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OUTFIT: GOLDEN HOUR
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Mommy Diaries: PUTTING OUR CHILDREN'S INTERESTS ABOVE OUR OWN
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OUTFIT: Hats Out
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OUTFIT: Black and Blue and a Yard Sale
For every item you purchase, P20 will be donated to iLearners Inc.- a Cebu-based non-profit organization that is dedicated to fight rural illiteracy by donating complete school supplies to their adapted communities.
I will be sharing a booth with fellow Cebu Fashion Bloggers Issa of Issa Please and Jean of Life on a Flavored Runway and will be manning it ourselves! so drop by to shop or just to say hi!
All my preloved stuff- tops, jeans, dresses, sandals and heels, will be on display as well as some of Vania's preloved clothing and shoes. Tell your friends and mark your calenders!
top and shorts in this photo will be included in the sale! see you all there!
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OUTFIT: In Mint Condition
a preview of the items i will be selling tomorrow at Threadcycle yard sale at The Terraces, Ayala Center Cebu.
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| this Mint Forever21 top is up for grabs tomorrow! |
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Mommy Diaries: Being a shutterbug and why it matters
i am slowly putting this blog in order, from meticulously categorising each post, to placing appropriate labels, to revamping the overall look and theme- making it more streamline, embracing the minimalist design bordering on almost stiff and monochromatic. somehow, i always feel the need to re-do this blog's theme every now and then. i even want to incorporate some of my watercolor art but that can wait until i learn how to digitize my prints well enough to be posted here. i am still in the middle of organizing my backlogs (some as old as 6 months ago! haha!) and making a time frame for when they will all go live here on the blog. i have so much stuff to share but before i post all of them starting with our El Nido from last year, here's a little then-and-now post of Vania in Camotes.
three years ago, my cousins dragged my sibblings and i to Camotes for some needed chill time. when we got to Lake Danao, some tourists were already heading out to visit a nearby cave so basically, we had the whole place to ourselves- a rarity these days and i dont think i need to explain why. so my sister and i grabbed the opportunity for an impromptu maternity shoot. i was 5 months pregnant then, posing on the boardwalk and waddling my way to the Sakanaw :D
last month, i went back there with my family and Rose and I just had to recreate the moment.
has it really been 3 years?
time flies so fast and im just happy that i have a shutterbug for a sister who helps me document all of life's important milestones. i have a bajillion of albums of Vania from the day she was born, to when she had her ears pierced, to her first beach trip, her first steps, to when she first rode her bike, her first plane ride, to the many times she sinks into her pink table to paint- little and big milestones that needed documentation. photographs that i hope will one day paint a thousand smile on Vania's face as she scans through each one of her baby albums. but somehow i know that she will take delight in keeping and going through old photos of her because that is how i always feel every time i go through mine.
"taking pictures is savoring life intensely, every hundredth of a second."
-marc riboud
photos taken by my brother Joey :)
photos taken by my brother Joey :)
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OUTFIT: Briton Stripes and Linen
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OUTFIT: Why I Love One Piece Swimwear
who doesn't love a good fitting one piece?! something that comes in cacti print?!
well i don't know about you but i went bonkers when i first saw this. i guess it's safe to say that it was love at first sight, right?
i am currently hoarding one piece suits as it is much easier for me to run around in especially now that i have a toddler. not only are they comfortable, they also exude that, as one writer would put it, under-the radar-sexiness. this triangle one piece is chic and classy, not to mention one of a kind because it features an original hand drawn print made by the owners themselves. another favorite is this military cap from a menswear company from Cebu. materials are sourced here and abroad but are made locally. Both items items in the Philippines. Yes, they're all local finds! it doesn't get any better than that, right?
Neon Island Clothing Cactus Lovin' Triangle One Piece.
Forever21 denim shorts and slippers. Elated Industries military cap.
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Mommy Diaries: Traveling to El Nido with a Toddler
Initially, our El Nido trip was supposed to be just a couple's getaway because we thought Vania was already big enough to be left in the care of my parents. We thought that at 2 years old, she wouldn't notice that her parents were away for awhile. I, myself, was very confident that the presence of my siblings, especially that of my sister, would make do for the 6 days that I wont be home to take care of her. But as our scheduled trip drew near, the husband and i grew more and more weary because Vania would always look for me or her dad whenever we're out of sight. Even grocery shopping felt like a marathon because my sister would text me to say that Vania was already looking for us even though we were just gone for an hour or so. So 5 days before our trip, we decided to just tag her along and I thought, It wouldn't be that hard, right? I mean, her first plane ride experience was a breeze and there was just only me that time so Palawan shouldn't be so hard because my husband was there to help me manage.
We made last minute changes with our itinerary, our baggage allowance (because hello big tin can of milk!) and our hotel especially. i purposely allotted 6 days for this trip because our first day was purely travel- that 6-7hours drive to El Nido shouldn't count as Day 1 of vacation, right? Days 2-4 were the real deal (detailed itinerary on a separate post), Day 5 for our scheduled trip back to Puerto Princesa, overnight stay in the city and Day 6 for our flight back to Cebu.
along with the changes we made, we also bought and brought a few things that we thought would make the whole trip enjoyable for Vania. although some of these tips may or may not work for you and your toddler, sharing these still just to give you mommas a little idea of how it really is to travel to El Nido with a very active 2-year-old.
TIP #1 Bring coloring materials.
TIP #2 Bring light snacks.
the night before our flight, i made sure to bring coloring pens and a notebook for Vania to doodle on. this proved equally useful especially when she got tired of staring out the window to look at the clouds and look for Tinkerbell. haha!
i bought a couple of cookie and chocolate bars for Vania but I wanted to give her something special (read something i dont make her eat :p) so we bought french fries which she sure loved (look at that face!) and brought with us a good serving of calamansi juice for the whole trip. if your little one is anything like Vania who doesn't like whatever dirt she thinks she has on her fingers or face or even shirt, make sure to bring an extra pack of baby wipes!
TIP #3 Never underestimate the convincing power of your tablet.
While i could say that Vania is a very well-behaved child, airports and plane rides can get pretty boring and when doodling no longer works, there is always that little tablet of awesomeness to help you deal with idle time. it helps you convince them to take a break from all the wandering and sit with you while waiting for boarding with her favorite disney videos on repeat. and for someone who loves to sing and/or study in between private karaoke sessions at the airport, her iPad was her bestfriend. next to..
her pillow.
TIP #4 Bring a security blanket
TIP #4 Bring a security blanket
Vania doesn't have a specific favorite when it comes to huggies, plushies or pillows. this doesn't come as a surprise to me because i dont remember having one myself. well, save for Popo, a teddy bear that was like a crossbreed between a brown bear and a care bear, giving him green fluffy pigtails and a pink nose. but because i want Vania to feel a wee bit more relaxed throughout the whole trip, thought it best to just bring her baby pillow. and im glad we did because the 6-7hrs ride to El Nido from Puerto Princesa was no joke.
TIP #5 Pay for you toddler's seat
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a realization that came a little too late when we were on the road to El Nido (photos taken on our way back to Puerto Princesa.) dont get me wrong, Vania was never fuzzy nor fidgety for the whole duration of the trip. from an hour or so plane ride, to our 6hr long land trip, 2 stopovers, 5-10min power naps hourly, not once did we hear her complain. she was singing nonstop, always hugging her pillow, and occasionally asking for water, calamansi juice or chocolate biscuits. but she was always sitting or reclined for a bit, making her daddy's tummy her makeshift bed. haha! if she wanted to lie down, she would have to lie on both our laps, something that isn't so good for her back. so the moment we arrived in El Nido, we arranged with our tour operator to reserve the first seats to us, paying for Vania's space so she can lie down and stretch whenever she wants.
TIP #6 Bring an inflatable boat![]()
Seven Commandos Island
TIP #5 Pay for you toddler's seat
TIP #6 Bring an inflatable boat
Seven Commandos Islandif you guys want to do the island tours, i suggest you bring with you an inflatable boat. while some bigger outrigger boats have kayaks, i still think it's safe for your toddler to be in an inflatable boat. we only did Tour A (because TYPHOON RUBY! boo!) and it proved really useful if you guys want to see the small lagoon. the short swim going there can be quite a task without a mini boat. a life vest is a must, too, but we had to wrestle with Vania before she would let us put it on her only to have it removed minutes after.
TIP #7 Water shoes![]()
they're the next best thing to rash guards. invest in good ones so you're sure that your little ones feet are safe from unwanted boo-boos. i don't think i need to explain myself any further on this one :)
they're the next best thing to rash guards. invest in good ones so you're sure that your little ones feet are safe from unwanted boo-boos. i don't think i need to explain myself any further on this one :)TIP #8 Bring lots of water
most for drinking, some for..![]()
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..RINSING. i got this from my parents who always made sure that we rinse with fresh water always after swimming. sea water makes me uncomfortable when it dries up on my skin. it feels sticky and heavy and that explains why hotels and beach resorts have showers near the beach. but of course, you wouldn't expect fresh water showers in the remote islands of El Nido, right? so it's best to bring lots of bottled water. the night before your scheduled island hopping tour, ask the hotel staff if you can have store a few bottles of water in their freezer. that way you're sure that you have a cold drink all throughout the day. wrap it in towel and use the towel cool off your face after every swimming.
TIP #9 Bring a waterproof camera and take lots of photos
no, take a bajillion photos. let your toddler explore and have fun and take beautiful snaps whenever you can. they're not this small forever and you will miss this crazy/beautiful phase of their tiny lives.
TIP #10 Relax and have fun
boy, someone's really, really happy. haha!
sure, it ain't always easy, but i always keep in mind that they're not this small forever and soon enough, they would want to skip a family get together for an out of town trip with friends. build memories together that way, they'd still want to travel with you when they get older. (clingy mummy talking! haha!) relax, have fun, teach them how to swim, swim together, PLAY, PLAY and PLAY.
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OUTFIT: Summer Colors
Summer's coming to a close which is totally okay because the heat is just unbearable! And this dry spell that's been plaguing Cebu has been at it for quite some time now and we definitely need rain sooner rather than later. Besides, Summer is just a state of mind, right?
But before I bid it adieu, here's a little throwback post to when I had long hair and wearing bright summer prints to compliment the weather.
Is it too obvious that I am sooo in love with my hair in this post? HAHA!
forgive the fixation but i'm sure you all know how light and smooth your hair feels after a treatment. i will be blogging about my haircare regimen- both salon and at home treatments so stay tuned for that one! in the mean time, enjoy the rest of the long weekend!
xo, toni
photos by: @helloqua
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EVENT: Tourism Malaysia MyFest 2015
The Special Campaign launch was held last June 10, at the Sampaguita Grand Ballroom of Cebu City Marriott Hotel from 9AM, with the B2B session succeeding the event.
In line with the Year of Festivals 2015, with the theme, “Endless Celebrations”, BFF or Be Friends Forever very well complements the year-long campaign. The letters effectively mirror the bonds that were built, the fun and adventure shared, and the lasting memories that have been created from traveling with best friends.
For this new campaign, Tourism Malaysia would like to position itself as a best friend to a certain extent who is looking out for their visitors, who wants them to have fun, who caters well to their needs, and helps create the best memories during your travels. Likewise, the campaign would also like to imbibe the feeling that Malaysia remains to be a destination of choice for families and friends who are looking for a very enjoyable vacation. He adds, “This special campaign inspired by the Filipinos’ love affair with selfies and picture taking, focuses on not just keeping but on sharing these lasting memories captured digitally and immortalized on social media. In as much as I would love to think that all of us here are all BFF’s, I want to let all Filipinos who have at least once travelled to Malaysia know that we consider all of them and the future generations of countless Filipinos who will take time out to visit my beloved Malaysia, as our best friends forever and my hugs and kisses go out to all of them.”
And given that Tourism Malaysia ensures guests of a very enjoyable time, the BFF campaign is a great way to let others know what exactly they can expect from trip – through the experiences of those who have already been to Malaysia. The campaign encourages travellers who have been to Malaysia to post their favorite vacation photos on Facebook and Instagram using the hashtag #mybffxoxo, which also qualifies them to win special monthly prizes from Tourism Malaysia, as well as the grand prize for the promotion – a three days/two nights stay in Malaysia accompanied by his or her best friend (or family member).
With so many things lined up as well as more events and attractions being held and being put in place in this charming country, Malaysia is happy to inform Filipinos of what they can expect from their trip.
For more info, visit www.tourismmalaysia.gov.my
Find them on Facebook: Tara Na Sa Malaysia
photos from Jean Candice Yu
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EVENT: Art Attack. A Sneaker Project with Converse
The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (Philippines) in partnership with Mercy-In-Action Foundation and Converse, is hosting a DIY Sneakers event on June 27 10-12NN for the rescued street children in Talisay, Cebu. 30 VOLUNTEERS are invited to help out the kids in designing their brand new pair of sneakers which they can use to school.
RSVP by sharing the official invite on your page and sending us a link to your post via caringcup@coffeebean.com.ph. Click the link to view the details and mechanics: http://on.fb.me/1SqbKWR
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CAMPAIGN: McDonald’s Welcomes Back the Minions
McDonald’s Welcomes Back the Minions
Now you can complete the set before everyone else by pre-ordering from June 15-20
There’s something about the Minions that kids and even adults find hard to resist. The small, yellow, lovable goggled creatures are back—and they are out to take over the world once again!
McDonald’s reveals that the much-loved Minions will soon return in every Happy Meal. To make their comeback extra special, customers can now pre-order the complete Minions Happy Meal set in all McDonald’s store nationwide starting June 15.
Be the master of all 10 Minions Happy Meal toys and get them before everyone else. Here’s how:
Step 1 - Visit any McDonald’s store from June 15-20.
Step 2 - Pre-order the complete Minions Happy Meal set in the frontcounter of a McDonald’s store.
Step 3 - For only Php949, each pre-ordered Minions Happy Meal set includes a Claim Stub Set for all 10 Minions Happy Meal toys and 10 Happy Meal food stubs composed of:
Four (4) Burger McDo with fries Happy Meals
Two (2) Chicken McDo Happy Meals
Two (2) McSpaghetti Happy Meals
Two (2) Burger McDo Happy Meals
Step 4 - Happy Meal food stubs may be used upon purchase or until August 19.
Step 5 - The complete Minions Happy Meal set may be redeemed at any McDonald’s store starting June 25—before the Minions toys are available individually in store.
With these simple steps, you can complete your Minions Happy Meal set before others even start collecting! Share the fun to your closest buddies, family, and loved ones. Kids and every kid-at-heart will surely enjoy the instant dose of happiness that only a Happy Meal and a Minions toy can bring.
Watch out for more exciting surprises that McDonald’s has in store for certified Minions fanatics!
For more information, visit happymeal.com.ph,
like the official Facebook fan page at www.facebook.com/mcdo.ph,
or follow @McDo_PH on Twitter and Instagram. #MinionsAtMcDo.
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Disclaimer: Not available in Boracay stores.
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CAMPAIGN: Hedgren Style Clinic 2015
Start on your journey towards empowerment by joining the Hedgren Style Clinic this June 25, 4:00 PM at SM City Cebu. Facilitated by former Ms. Universe-Philippines Abbygale Arenas-De Leon, you'll learn about the power of image and the importance of confidence to success.
Born and bred in the hub of innovative fashion that is Antwerp, Hedgren maintains its roots in a vibrant Belgian design scene. Launched in 1993 by Xavier Kegels, his practical yet minimalist designs soon won fans the world over - our first flagship store opened in Belgium, and was later joined by stores in Paris, Shanghai and Hangzhou. Times and trends may have changed since these beginnings, but one thing has remained constant: an unwavering commitment to quality materials and enduring design, providing modern men and women clever solutions for daily city living.
Established in 1993, over the last 20 years the Hedgren brand has perfected the craft of making long-lasting bags with a focus on functionality. Designed with both men and women in mind, these are unisex accessories built to withstand the rigors of daily life – for the busy commuter as for the seasoned traveller. Our timeless designs embody the energy of the city with clever features, stylish structures and a casual European flair.
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OUTFIT: Monkey See, Monkey Do
my sister and i went through a planet of the apes kind of moment when we had to pass by a rather jealous female monkey to get here. it felt like an obstacle course before reaching this part of the mangrove trail. going there was a problem, getting out was a disaster! she was tied to the pillar of a shed where people from the barangay would gather on some occasions. unfortunately for us, no one was there, not a single soul saw us struggle to walk past the very angry female. she'd swing back and front, making the rope tied around her belly roll all the way down to her hips so that when she swings again, we'd be within reach and there would be no way we could walk past the 2-meter walkway without her grabbing either my shirt, my hair or my eyeballs. it was crazy and my sister was on the verge of tears! haha! luckily, after what seemed like forever (it was the longest 10 mins of our lives! haha!) 2 kids walked past the entrance and we just had to shout at the top of our lungs for help. they hesitated at first, thinking we were some kind of looneys with the girl eyeing us suspiciously. but they were kind enough to help us, the boy even tried to calm the monkey down but his distraction did not work. another 10 minutes of prolonged agony when another lucky star in the form of a manong came and.. EMANCIPATION!
yes my friends, all that trouble for a beautiful spot like this for an outfit post.
i know im not the only one. i can see you nodding in agreement. ;)
have a lovely weekend ahead!
xo, toni
cotton on top. similar: halter top
forever21 trouser. similar: tropical print trouser
sm parisian flats. similar: ankle strap pointed flats
pandora charm bracelet from the husband <3
photos by my sister @helloqua
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