I only buy bags once a year. That kinda sounds ridiculous now that I said it out loud, but the truth is I've never been that interested in bags. I did consider those uber chic Cambridge satchels above but I'm not one to blow P5,000- P10,000 on a bag - at least, not yet!

So when I saw this bag in Market! Market! yesterday I practically jumped with joy. 

My heart skipped a beat when I saw the price tag - P650 - but I still managed to haggle it down to P580 since it's the last piece in stock.

I promised you guys that I'll show you what I got from Bambu, and here it is! 

I like Ipanema's strappy flip flops, but I'm usually too lazy to adjust and fix the straps before I leave. I want fuss-free flip flops that still look stylish and I think this pair, the GB Hot Sands Thong Fem with a ribbon, fits the bill.

You guys know that I'm already happy with the jeans I have, so when Promod launched their Denim Bar, I wasn't that interested in getting a pair. They gave the guests GCs to spend on whatever we want so I went around the store looking for something to buy. A new bag? This cute cardigan? So many nice finds inside the store! Jeans were frankly the last thing on my mind. The Promod product managers insisted that I try a pair, but I politely declined.

But then I saw Shen, Tara, and a couple of other ladies clutching jeans to the cashier. I asked them why and all I got were raves! That was the point I decided to try the jeans on for myself. And this, my dear readers, is what the fuss is about.

Nine West heels/ Warehouse blazer/ Flair For Drama top/ Promod jeans

Love the fit, love the stretch fabric, love the understated wash.

My oldest pair of Ipanema flipflops were from waaay back in 2009. I don't use them anymore mainly because they're at my mom's house (I keep forgetting to bring them here), but I'm happy to report that they're as good as new! The print has faded a bit, but the rubber isn't worn down or scuffed. They're quite sturdy and comfortable, to boot.

My current house slippers are Ipanema as well. The thick rubber feels so soft on my feet, and yes, they're also as good as new since I got them last year. They have lived through many out-of-town and mall trips!

My other pretty Ipanema flip flops

All my Ipanemas are well-worn yet they've withstood time in terms of quality and trendiness. I used to think that paying more than P1,500 for a pair of flipflops is ridiculous, but after two years of wearing this brand, I can confidently say that it's definitely worth it. They don't get outdated, they're comfy and sturdy at the same time.

Anyway, I'd just like to share Ipanema's new summer collection with you. It's called the Gisele Bündchen Hot Sands Collection. It was launched via a fashion show held at the SM Prestige Lounge, SM Megamall, featuring young models wearing Coco Cabaña’s swim wear creations complemented by colorful flipflops.

It's not a secret that I am extremely conscious about my weight. I exercise and I try so hard to eat right, but it's an uphill challenge. It's always easier to lie to myself that I won't get fat if I miss one exercise or eat one bag of chips - I keep doing it until suddenly, my waistline is an inch fatter.

While there is no, and I repeat, no better way to lose weight than to eat right and exercise, a girl can always use the help of waist-shapers like girdles and corsets. I am not advocating them as a permanent way of life, but they are pretty useful while you're trying to get a slammin' body (and hopefully a healthy one as well)! One product that I've recently tried is the Inches Off Instant Body Shaper.

I got the High Waist Tummy Flattener Firm Control Panty. I wore it the other day under a thin, jersey dress and I can really see and feel the difference.

I was at SM Mall of Asia last night. A visit isn't complete without checking out the clothes in the department store, of course! My favorite brand there, Soiree, has restocked so yay for that. The teens wear department also has new interesting things. I wasn't able to take any photos, but I happened to come by an SM catalogue in Facebook while finalizing my Avon contest (plz join ok?).

Here are some of my favorite clothes and looks:

I am smitten with the cool shades of tangerine and other citrusy fruits like lime and lemon for this season. It's so refreshing to the eyes no? They're so easy to pair with any ol' pair of denim, tan, brown, or white pieces. I just want to say though, the bright fuchsia lip on the models rather clash with the orange. The MUA could have used a complementing shade like a glossy pink or peach.

Here's another trend I like - solid colors! And LOTS of them.

Last week, I had the pleasure of being a guest for Net 25's morning show called Homepage. I talked about the fashion trends for 2011 and, needless to say, I had so much fun. The hosts, especially Ivy, were super nice and accommodating. There was no room to be shy! Of course, the researchers Steph (who invited me) and Blueberry (yes that's her name!) made sure that I felt welcome. It definitely made my trip from The Fort to far away Quezon City worth it.

This is my third time to be on TV. I think I'm getting the hang of it, lol. The first two times were embarrassingly awkward. Anyway, here's a photo diary of what transpired last Wednesday!

A friend of mine recently launched her own online shop called Streets of Seoul. Chrissy is a professional fashion merchandiser venturing in the world of e-commerce, and I have to say, she does a wonderful job! The clothes are edgy, looking like something you can find off Topshop or Mango. Nonetheless, they're very affordable, selling for only an average of P500-700.

Check out my top picks:

Everyone needs a faux leather biker jacket in their life. Now that the biker look is hot stuff at 2011, there's no reason not to get one that looks like it will fit gorgeously - for only P900, too!

Last week, Net 25's morning show called Homepage invited me to talk about this year's upcoming fashion trends. Here's what we talked about! Enjoy.

What are the fashion trends or the "in" look for 2011?

thePOC covered dozens of shows by young and upcoming designers last September during the PFW S/S 11 festivities. I think I mentioned before that I found many of them rather uninspired, but there is one designer that really stood out to me: Chris Diaz. It's not so much because his designs are groundbreaking or unique - it's because the clothes he sent down the runway are exactly my style. Re-imagined 60's fashion in florals and pastels? Don't say another word!

TDF cardigan with floral appliques

Not friendly to most body types, but I like mint with white. Very fresh.

Today (and yesterday) I went shopping. I've "outgrown" some of the clothes I already own, in the sense that a good number of them don't fit my current style. It's time to inject some key pieces I can match with what I have. 

White jacket from Studio Line/ Trousers from Soiree/ Accessories from SM/ Shoes from Charles & Keith/ Bag from LuLu

Can I just say, I am crazy about these khaki trousers! When the drop-crotch/ jhodpur pants trend came out, I thought it was ridiculous and just plain unflattering. The trend somehow grew on me though. I got these pants yesterday from the SM Makati department store, under the label Soiree. These are the same ones featured at the SM Department Store show at Philippine Fashion Week S/S11. Neat huh?

Statement accessories that really make a personal, unique statement - that is the idea behind the upcoming collection at Ukay Manila called Trinket Box Luxe. Don't you just hate it when you're wearing a great necklace, but see someone else wearing the same thing? Well, even if you don't, you know deep inside your heart that at least two dozen other girls have the exact same thing. That's what happens when you buy from a department store.

The new accessories that we'll be putting up are all sourced from Bangkok, Korea, and Hongkong personally by our very meticulous supplier. She's awesome! Here is a sneak preview of some of the accessories:

Cute and elegant at the same time. A daintier version of Patricia Field's clover charm necklace for Sex and the City 2

Turquoise always adds a fresh, stylish pop of color to even the most boring ensembles

I've just finished a marathon publishing session over at the Beauty & Fashion section of thePOC.net. I've been at it for the last three hours, sifting through designers and grammatical errors (which are thankfully few). I leave the rest to the proofreaders, should I have missed anything! Next week should be the last week of our PFW S/S 11 coverage. Head on over to see what we've got so far.

Anyway, while looking through the shows, I must say that I am completely underwhelmed. Nothing stands out. In fact, some of the clothes are verging on the ridiculous. I'd like to say that most of the designers tried their best to showcase their skills (like last time), but this season, it seems like a lot of them have toned it down. Is it because most of the shows are sponsored by big brands who are naturally conservative and specific about what they want and don't want on the runway? 

I am trying hard to find the fashion in these:

"Philippine flag pinata." I quote one of my writers.

So unique and fashion-forward

OMG! This was taken shortly before the Ipanema show started. I'd like to write something longer to gush about this momentous highlight (lol) but I need to pack for a 2-day family reunion.

You can view the gallery here. Thanks so much Stylebible! It's an honor to be included in your style spotting feature. <3

Photos courtesy of Stylebible.ph

Lookie what arrived on my doorstep this morning! I can see this with my favorite little black dresses and heels. It's such a conversation starter don't you think? I love the peacock design! But you know what it makes me think of whenever I see it? This line from The Other Guys: "I'm a peacock, you have to let me fly!" Haha.

More photos after the jump!

Have you ever seen Ruffa Gutierrez in person? You should try one time! She's stunning in every sense of the word. Her beauty is like a physical wall that hits you when you lay your eyes on her. And no I'm not going lesbo, it's just that I am a keen admirer of beauty (hence this blog)! Anyway, I also like that Ruffa is always perfectly poised and well-dressed, with her makeup flawless.

Allow me make a comment in true showbiz fashion: she lost weight!

Ruffa hosted the launch of Avon's latest offerings: the Jet Holiday Eau de Toilette and the Dare To Dazzle Jewelry Collection last October 12. The event was held at Society Lounge. It was a pretty straightforward launch where guests got to experience and take home the Avon's newest products.

Gwapo models went around spraying Jet Holiday (P1,350) for the guests

Jet  Holiday  is described as an "enticing  blend of fresh citrus, sun-soaked orange blossom and exotic fig wood". I love the scent because it has this unexpected kick of something like ginger.

I've been thinking about little black dresses all week. I don't know how it started, but there it is. My guess is that I'm in a black mood, that is, all I want to wear is black. I want an LBD in every shape and size!

We all love cheap clothes, but sometimes, it's wise to invest in choice pieces that will serve us for more than a few washes. Basics like the little black/white dress, stunning cocktail dresses, and evening gowns are items that need to stand the test of time in our closets. It makes more sense to blow a few thousands on them and then recycle until you get fat, or die. Lol.

Anyway, that's the idea behind the SM Fashion Forum located at the third level of SM Makati. The clothes there are in the P2,000 to P5,000 price range, but they are picked with care to reach a balance of quality, trendiness, and versatility without sacrificing timeless style. The clothes are from US brands like Adrianna Papell, David Meister, Donna Morgan, London Times, Max & Cleo, and Maggy London, to name a few. Miss Couture is a line for the younger set in terms of cheaper pricing and styles.

If you're looking for clothes to wear for important business meetings, power lunches, and parties/events from semi-formal to formal, I highly recommend Fashion Forum as your first stop. However, if you're into cheap and trendy disposable clothes for malling, clubbing, or coffee dates, go to Forever 21! Or any mall department store and tiangge, really.

Here's a virtual tour of the SM Fashion Forum:

Bright, well-lit interiors and spacious aisles will greet you upon entering

I first encountered NaRaYa when I was still in college. Robinson's Midtown was newly constructed then and featured a lot of new shops, one of which was NaRaYa. I loved the display of fabric bags in the shop window, but I never ever ventured in. Why? Because I thought that there was no way I can afford all those pretty bags! The boutique looked expensive too.

Well, I'll let you in on a little secret: NaRaYa bags are actually very affordable! They have purses and pouches that sell for only P99 and up while the big bags range from P500 to P1000+ (bags that cost this much are as big as a suitcase). For the cheap price, you don't get cheap quality. I said in my post last Saturday that I was surprised by the quality of the NaRaYa bag I got; the stitches were fine and straight and the fabric used was top notch. I also loved the water-repellant lining!

Ms. Cecille, the owner of NaRaya Philippines, invited me to visit the store in SM North EDSA after reading what I wrote. She was super nice and accomodating, telling me all about NaRaYa and giving me a mini-tour around the store. I was amazed by what she told me about the bags!

For instance, did you know that NaRaYa bags are made by hand in Thailand? That explains the quality and attention to detail in each piece. They don't have factories here or in anywhere else but Thailand. Every aspect of the store is also replicated from the Thai flagship store, even down to the displays!

Aside from quality control, one other thing that NaRaYa prides itself in is the cleanliness of their stores. You won't see any dust gathering in corners here!