Ala Mode: A Lookbook

Accessories have the power to make or break any outfit. It can amp up a casual outfit, or tone down a rather extravagant one. If I were to rank the importance of each type of accessory, bags would definitely top my list and I know a lot of ladies would agree with me on this. They don't only alter your look aesthetically but it also serves a function of holding your cellphone, wallet, and other stuff you lug around with you (which is important if you're like me who brings a lot of stuff when going out). However, if you really want to turn heads and let your bag do the talking, designer bags is the way to go.

Now don't get me wrong, I'm not saying branded stuff is always better, but let's be real here, have you not turned your head when a girl carrying a Balenciaga bag passes by? Have you not drooled whenever a paparazzi photo of Kendall comes out, wearing only a plain shirt, tattered jeans, booties, but strapped across her body as a Céline nano bag? This may not apply to all, but it does apply to a lot, including myself.

Just last week, I had a shoot with Ala Mode Bags. I think it was actually my first time to have a studio shoot. I mostly do my shoots in non-controlled environments a.k.a the streets, my room, etc. Read more to see the photos and see how each bag finished off each monochrome outfit.

Michael Kors Selma Messenger Bag in Medium

This bag reminds me a bit of the Céline nano bag. It's just the right size for quick errands and events where one should only carry a small bag for essentials. The silhouette is also clean and uncomplicated which means that you can pair it with intricate pieces without looking overdone.

Britten Slouchy Tote

I fancy the color of this tote so much. "Camel" as they call it oozes not only Autumn vibes for me, but also reminds of of Kanye's neutral palette collection — Yeezy (although their styles are of a completely different genre).

Michael Kors Ava Satchel in Medium

Pale pastel pink — another hue that I love oh so much because of it's subdued playfulness which also goes so well with the Ava Satchel's shape. Pair it with a turtle neck sweater and skirt to look extra feminine or a plain loose shirt and denim shorts, with your hair in a pony for a casual chic look.

Furla Metropolis Mini Crossbody

You know those times where you just want to bring some bills, your lipstick, and some oil films to keep your face fresh throughout the day but refuse to stuff them all in your pocket? Well this body bag is for you, it's tiny but packs quite an impact design wise.

Marion Quilted Chain Shoulder Bag

There's just something about leather quilted bags that makes it so classy... especially when it's paired with gold chains. This Marion Quilted bag is roomy enough to fit all your essentials, but not gigantic to overshadow your well planned, put-together outfit.

What do you guys think about the bags I mentioned? Care to share which designer bag is your favorite or a piece you're just dying to have? Ala Mode Bags might just have it for you! Be sure to follow them on Instagram and you might find that dream bag that's worth investing on.

Shy Boy

My little brother, Dadu, officially became a teen yesterday! Just a simple and intimate celebration for his 13th birthday, that's how the family usually prefers to do it. We had dinner at a Japanese buffet, and my parents bought Dadu his present afterwards. Namely, four PS4 games and a charger for his laptop (cause my brothers keep fighting over who gets to use the existing one they have). Of course, the birthday boy has to look great on his special day, so that's where I came in! Boys, take note!

Sweatshirt by H&M x Alexander Wang | Skinny Jeans by Zara | Sneakers by Adidas

Why Shy Boy? Well, if I had to rank my brothers, Udo (the youngest) would have zero shyness and Dadu would have around 90% shyness. I had a hard time taking nice photos of him cause he went all awkward every time I asked him to pose, but hey I got a few lucky shots.

As for his outfit, I checked how the weather yesterday would be so I dressed all my brothers in sweaters. For the birthday boy I made him wear my H&M x Alexander Wang sweatshirt which was just sitting around in my closet. He didn't like it cause of the stiff material, but I insisted he looked great haha. My mom also wanted Dadu to wear his Adidas Micropacers, so I based his jeans on that. I figured shoes like these would look best with super skinny jeans thus, the hand-me-down-from-mom Zara jeans.

The Adidas Micropacers are really cool. First time I saw it, I was like "What the heck, this is so weird, why'd you even get this?", but then I realized it's one of those hard to find, unique pieces you'll be sure you wouldn't see everyone wearing... cause it looks weird... but cool at the same time.

I'll probably borrow it from my brother (evil laugh).