Seven Travel Essentials From Muji

The travel season is creeping in day by day and you probably have your tickets ready from those seat sales that went on a few months ago. Where to? Hong Kong? Japan? New York? Hawaii? Morocco?? It’s common sense that each destination would require you to stuff certain things in your suitcases but wherever you decide to go in the next few weeks, may that be a cold country or a tropical beach, there’s always a couple of things that are equivalent to a little black dress in every girl’s closet (or a trusty collared shirt in a guy’s case).

To address just this, I swung by one of my favorite stores, Muji, and had a look around. Muji has always been my go-to place for school supplies shopping. I’d get giddy every time I go through their notebooks, pens, pencil cases, etc and even more giddy when I whip ‘em out the classroom and use them. I love the clean and simple aesthetic vibin’ all throughout their products, it made schooling bearable and a little more fun. Now that I’ve graduated and only have my planner (which I rarely write on lately) as my analog tool, I haven’t had the need to purchase Muji’s magical (yes, they’re magical to me) notebooks and pens. However upon graduation, came traveling and if you’ve been to any Muji store, you’ll know that it’s one of the brand’s specialties. And I, being a young adult, cannot depend on my mother anymore to do my packing for me (like my little brothers do).

So yes, back to the main point, I scoured through Muji’s shelves to compile my 7 super travel essentials that I think would be essential to you guys too.

The mini organizer & the travel sized bottles

When it comes to traveling, it’s really better to travel light. Just bring enough for the trip and that includes all your skincare & haircare products. Muji has all sorts of bottles you can choose from, including bottles with volumes less than 100ml for products you need in your carry-on purse.

Another must have are these organizers so that you can categorize the stuff you have in your bag so you don’t have to dig through mixed up randoms. Toiletries in one, accessories in another, and makeup or underwear on the third pouch. Trust me, you’ll save yourself from lots of stress.

A reliable suitcase with a matching organizer

[column-group] [column]Suitcases don’t come cheap, so if you’re going to purchase one, make sure it’s of a versatile size, something you think would be an appropriate size for most kinds of travels. Pick one that isn’t too small and not too large that you’ll come off as OA. I personally got the size between medium and large (I’m so sorry I forgot the actual numeric size) because I know my stuff would not fit in the medium one even for a 3-day trip, and I also don’t want to spoil myself with the large one because I tend to overpack most of the time (plus, like I said, avoid looking OA with a gigantic suitcase). Another important thing, when I say reliable, I also mean that it’s got to withstand several travels where the airport staff just throws it around the cargo area. Don’t waste your moolah on something that’ll make you spend more in the long run,[/column] [column]invest in some good quality suitcase and you’re good to go for years. What I especially love about Muji’s Hardcase Trolley, as shallow as it seems, is its no nonsense, streamlined, and subtle elegant look. I do want to still look put together even on the airport, and I bet this suitcase will go with about just any look.

Similar to the EVA Box Pouch, I find Muji’s Garment Case to be equally important for suitcases, especially for longer travels where you have more stuff in your bag. You can organize, say, casual clothing from the more formal ones, or separate tops from bottoms. Again, it would make things more manageable and organized.[/column] [/column-group]

The versatile parka

[column-group] [column]For me, whether you’re going to a cold country or a tropical one, it’s always wise to have something that can either be layered or wouldn’t reduce you to a sweat ball in case things get a bit chilly.[/column] [column]I’d go with Muji’s Parka than a basic hoodie anytime since this can be styled up or down depending on what you pair with it.[/column] [/column-group]

A mushy neck pillow

[column-group] [column]My mom swears by these pillows. Traveling can be exhausting so it’s good to have something handy in case you need a little power nap on your way to paradise. May it be a long car ride or flight, these neck huggers will make sure your head doesn’t wobble on some stranger’s shoulders[/column] [column]in case you aren’t seated with your companions. Nothing’s more awkward than some drooling napper’s head swaying towards you. Start the change yourself, get a pillow like this for Pete’s sake. Haha I’m kidding, but really this pillow is really comfy.[/column] [/column-group]

The carry-all

[column-group] [column]Last but certainly not the least, an all in one bag that would carry all the stuff you need handy during flights and long rides. Ideally, one should only lug around two things on airports, their trolleys/suitcases, and one carry-on bag. In my case, this contains usually contains my wallet, phone (of course), tissue, powerbank, lighting cable, blotting oil (and other kikay stuff for touchups), and camera.[/column] [column]I know this may be unapplicable to some people, but like I said, ideally.

I find Muji’s Boston bag to be just perfect for this. It’s of the right size, and it looks safe (but never boring) to match most if not all outfits. It’s also got an accesible pocket on the bag for slipping in your passport or boarding pass.[/column] [/column-group]

That, my friends, sums up my travel essentials. Just a final point I need to mention, you would think, “why Muji? There are a lot of brands that carry some travel stuff too”.

Like what I’ve mentioned above, one of my favorite things about Muji (aside from housing stuff that are of excellent quality), is how simple all their stuff is. Now simple could sometimes mean it’s plain or boring but I’ve never looked at any of Muji’s products that way. The simplicity of their stuff makes stressful daily tasks a little bit more calming, plus it looks really good. I’ve always felt that way with Muji. I mean, when you open your suitcase, would you rather have mismatched crazy printed pouches one heart shaped, one embellished with studs or structured, neutral colored, semi see through ones like Muji’s? I’d go for the latter any time.

What do you guys think? I’d like to know what you guys have in your list though, mind telling me in the comments below?

Parking Lot Shenanigans

Grabbed the opportunity to do a quickie shoot in a nearly empty parking area shortly before getting in the car to go home. Photos by Duff Orate.

What I'm wearing: Faux leather blush cami and booties from Zara Lace bralette from Krate the Label Jeans from Topshop Denim jacket from Bershka Nude purse from Céline Velvet cord from The Bead Shop Tooth pendant necklace from Forever 21

So I've been thinking a whole lot over what I do lately.... You know, blogging and such. I thought, if I could choose only one category of blogging to fall under in, it would definitely be fashion. That is, if I'm only allowed to choose one. So a few days back, I looked through my blog entries and if I wanted to be mainly a fashion blogger, then there's certainly a bit of a shortage with my recent outfit entries. So here's a start ;)

My outfits are usually pretty straightforward. Top + bottom + shoes, or maybe dress + shoes, or if it's little chilly, I'll throw on a jacket to the ensemble or opt for a thicker top with long sleeves instead. However on this specific day I figured I wanted to complicate it a bit... and yes, this is a bit complicated for me already. This fit is a mix of different textures: faux leather, lace, and denim. Also, I love how the oversized denim jacket tones down the sultry vibe of the lace bralette playing peekaboo. I do think lace bralettes are made to play peekaboo though.

I should mention that this Céline bag is my first ever designer bag that I was able to purchase with my own moolah. All those bags you see me donning, all those are just borrowed from my mom (thank you mama ♥). So this one's pretty close to my heart what with the blood and tears (a.k.a. hardwork) behind it. Kidding, there was no blood nor tears involved, I love what I do. Anywho, I purchased it from my good friend Keith, who also happens to be the owner of A La Mode.

I know the rain sometimes sucks especially when it becomes a hindrance from us doing our daily tasks, but I miss layering. So perhaps some few drizzles here and there won't hurt? Drizzles please, not tornadoes.

So what do you think of this fit? Do you think that lace bralettes should indeed play peekaboo? Let me know in comments below. Also, a little pinky promise that I shall stay connected to my roots, more outfits for you guys! :P

Rocco + Ruru

Photography, direction, styling, and post-processing by mebut hell no, this shoot isn't possible without the team I toiled with.

Pardon me for getting sidetracked at the very beginning of this post, but I'd just like to dwell on the fact that writing isn't really my forte, a fact that may be obvious in this visual heavy, yet "short & sweet texted" entry. Well, at least I'm good at inventing these non existent "phrases" to mask my not so wide vocabulary. I can write, but between other things I can do, it's not exactly my specialty. Consider this a warning, though I do have high hopes for the visuals of this entry.

Now back to the reason for this post.

Get this, I just styled & shot Rocco & Ruru. Yeah, that just happened.

I was given the opportunity to style two of GMA's biggest stars who also happen to star in the remake of one of the most popular Fantaserye in Philippine Television. Though "styling" turns out to be a massive summary of my role. Later on (literally a few days before the shoot), I was informed that I would be basically in charge of the whole shoot. My responsibility escaping self went through minor hysterics.

I know you guys are dying (kidding) to see the photos, but please don't scroll past this as I'd like to recount the hardship I went through while pulling out the clothes for this shoot. A million thank yous aren't enough to thank my ever loyal friend, Duff, who spent 6 hours with me walking up and down Bonifacio High Street, carrying 10+ uber heavy paper bags in the midst of our then incomprehensible, humid, Philippine weather. Oh and I was wearing this really fluffy sweater + jeans + boots cause the weather looked gloomy while I was dressing up. How deceitful.

So a big shoutout to all stylists out there and their loyal friends who're ever so supportive of their stylist friend's endeavours.

For the first set, I dressed the two stars based on their profile sprinkled with a teeny bit of my style.

Both heartthrobs who are adored by females (and perhaps males) all over the Philippines Islands, yet different in their own sense. Rocco being the fit, brooding, mature moreno, and Ruru being the teen, Spiderman-esque lanky tisoy.

Rocco wears button down shirt and khaki chino pants from Cotton On, wristwatch and spectacles from Aldo, and lace up boots from Pedro.

I dressed Rocco in a safe yet classic ensemble — A midnight blue button down shirt, paired with khaki chino pants, and accessorized with a brown leather strapped wrist watch. Finished off with rounded spectacles and lace up boots the same color of the watch for a contemporary touch.

Ruru wears polo shirt and sneakers from American Eagle Outfitters, black parka from Factorie, and khaki shorts from Cotton On

As for Ruru, I took into account his teenage charm. The iconic "Taft conyo outfit" popped in my head. A polo shirt, paired with slim cut shorts, but instead of the usual combo including a pair of loafers or boats, I replaced the shoes with grayish taupe sneakers and added in a parka for some street style vibe.

Ive failed to mention this earlier, but the location and feel of each set is based on the aesthetics closest to me. The first one having that clean white + foliage thing going on and this second one, a clean, light and airy pastel vibe.

In the first set, I've considered both Rocco & Ruru's profile & possible (hehe) personal style, but for this set I only considered my vision (insert evil laugh here... kidding).

Now I've came across a comment saying "Nahhh that's not what a skater dude looks like" blah blah blah. My vision may be distorted but hey this is my shoot, my blog, and when I say this is my idea of a skater dude in an alternate pastel universe, then it will be.

Convictions aside, I think this makes for a quirky chill outfit on hot, sweaty days.

Ruru wears pink shirt, shorts, and sneakers from Cotton On, and floral cap from Aldo. Socks are stylist's own.

Rocco & Ruru's outfit are pretty similar for this set, but Ruru's lies more on the lighter color palette. I know I've already mentioned this a bajillion times, but pastel pink, light colored denim, and clean, cloud white sneakers make a great, foolproof combo. Topped with a blue and white printed headgear and dual hued striped socks to break off the plain colored monotony.

Rocco wears shirt and shoes from Cotton on, board shorts from Factorie, and bracelets from Aldo. Socks are stylist's own.

As for Rocco, whom I know is very much into fitness, a knowledge I got from "researching" on his Instagram and from having a little chat over breakfast, wore board shorts instead of denim ones. I feel like the the shirt and layered bracelet gave him more of a surfer dude appeal? Have I mentioned that I absolutely adore tops with statement backs?

I should also mention how much it was a breeze to work with Rocco and Ruru. As talented actors and regulars on the spotlight, of course these two knew exactly how to pose and project. They were especially fun and light to be with too, in my case, it was most fun to shoot the second set, my favorite shots being the candid, laughing ones.

A special thank you to the GMA crew and Dianne who tagged along with us during the shoot. Many thanks to Bench's Global brands for the clothes. To Rocco & Ruru, if you get the chance to read this, thanks for being such great sports during the shoot and for doing a great job! Last but definitely not the least, to my forever supportive boyfriend who skipped worked just to assist, accompany, drive, and help me create last minute outfits for this shoot. Love you, Miguel.

If you want to more of Rocco & Ruru, better watch out for the premiere of Encantadia on July 18, GMA channel.

So tell me, how did you like (or dislike) this shoot? Let me know in the comments below!

Three Strikes

I don't know if I've already mentioned this, but music is definitely one of my biggest inspiration when it comes to my style.

I'm not exactly sure how, since music isn't something you see rather it's something you hear and feel. I guess it's the feels certain type of songs give me that prompt me to wear certain types of clothing but just a few days ago, music inspired my outfit... literally. Have you seen Kylie's music video for her lip gloss? This may or may not be a popular opinion if you're not a fan of the Kardashians/Jenners, but Kylie was seriously beyond beautiful in that video. I especially love the bandana thing going on. I saw that and was like, "wow, that's perfect for summer."

A little trivia, I used to wear a bandana like this during my chemotherapy days. Either this or a bucket hat to cover my baldness/pixie cut hair.

Though initially I wore the scarf around my neck, later throughout the day I realized the look seemed a bit to chic and opted for a more casual take on it instead and wore it on my head. Also let me just say that I'm very happy with my recent purchase of this mustard body suit. I love the color, it's definitely something new to my dominantly black, white, grey, and nude wardrobe. I'm actually building a new color scheme for my wardrobe and I'm super excited for it. It's definitely a lot of fun to hunt and collect for pieces I haven't tried before.

Now I'm wondering why I didn't put on my So Cute gloss for this ensemble...

What I'm wearing:

Silk Scarf by H&M | Mustard body suit & Lace Up Heels by Forever 21 | Mom Jeans by Levis | Sling bag by Céline

Outfit Guide: Paradise IMF 2016

I'm sure you've heard... There's something lit happening on April 9. Huge names from different genres (read: from OPM to EDM to Hiphop) clumped in one surreal night. I honestly don't know how the organizers managed to pull this off, and more importantly, I honestly can't believe that I'm actually going to this music festival.

I just have an itsy bitsy problem — I still haven't decided on what to wear yet. I figured there would be a lot of us who share the same sentiments. There is no room to look crappy when it's an event headlined by Kanye West and Wiz Khalifa, yes???

With that, I assembled four sets of looks to give you some ideas on what to wear and given that one of the headliners has a very distinct sense of style and has his own clothing line, I figured maybe I could pattern these looks from that.

Look #1

Adidas Originals top, 7,920 PHP / Adidas Originals top, 7,920 PHP / Balmain brown legging, 54,735 PHP / High waisted pants, 790 PHP / Tan shoes, 8,270 PHP / Fendi backpack, 105,730 PHP / Isabel Marant bracelet, 11,385 PHP / Maison Margiela ring, 17,075 PHP / Mirror sunglasses, 555 PHP / Mac cosmetic, 1,535 PHP / Nars cosmetic, 2,035 PHP / Nars cosmetic, 1,210 PHP

Basically all four looks featured here all share the same thing: a neutral colour palette. Warm khakis, nudes, taupes, and soft pastel pinks. If you've ever seen Kanye present Yeezy Season 1/2/3, you know these are the dominant hues (well, except the pastel pink hehe).

The first look leans more on the dark side — blacks, browns, maroon. If you want a chill, quick, and fuss free look you can easily dance around in, this is definitely for you. Put on a cropped top, leggings, sneakers, your not-so-big leather backpack, some silverware and minimal nude make up to enhance that pretty face of yours and you're good to go.

Look #2

Brown t shirt, 1,160 PHP / Blue coat, 1,855 PHP / Jillian Plain Strappy Bodysuit, 575 PHP / Alexander Wang denim shorts, 13,805 PHP / Common Projects white shoes, 24,510 PHP / Burberry tinted moisturizer, 2,470 PHP / Nars cosmetic, 1,510 PHP

If you want to bare some legs and cover up above then you may opt for this look. Been raving about nudes in my past blog and Instagram posts and it looks especially cute when paired with washed out denim. If you're feeling a bit hot with the coverup, you can wrap it around your waist 'til things get a bit more chilly again. Top it off with a nude cap and a clean pair of white sneakers. Velcro, for added character ;)

Look #3

Adidas Originals sweatshirt, 19,235 PHP / Pink shirt, 1,070 PHP / Tee shirt / Adidas sneaker, 3,485 PHP / New balance sneaker, 5,580 PHP / Common Projects sneaker, 16,420 PHP / Vince Camuto scarve, 1,765 PHP / Mykita round sunglasses, 26,020 PHP / Christian Dior aviator sunglasses, 22,985 PHP / Round sunglasses, 285 PHP

Ever heard of lampshading? If not, it's simple... it's the "no pants are the best pants" look. If the first set didn't cut it for you in the laidback field then maybe this will. Just select an oversized shirt (printed or not, it's up to you), wear quirky shoes, and just dump on the equally quirky accessories you deem necessary. I find that putting on a neckerchief gives a lovely sense of contrast to this look.

Now I know this look makes you appear like you're not wearing bottoms, but please do, for your own sake. Any denim short shorts would do the trick.

Look #4

Topshop ripped boyfriend jeans, 2,760 PHP / TopShop Strappy Low-Back Body, 1,050 PHP / Common Projects low profile sneaker, 16,355 PHP / Lulu s vegan jewelry, 560 PHP / Wanda Nylon nylon cap, 2,575 PHP / White iphone case, 1,160 PHP / J.Crew rounded sunglasses, 8,360 PHP / Edward Bess palette eyeshadow, 3,995 PHP

Last but certainty not the least, the 4th set. If anything, this would be my favorite — a nude halter bodysuit paired with light denim mom jeans. Similar to the second look but, you guessed it, with pants! Hah!

Kidding aside, I love how this outfit bares just the right patches of skin (shoulders, clavicles, and back), and hugs you in the right places (namely: the waist). Protect your face from that open field sun with a cute satin cap and a belt bag for extra hands-free convenience.

What do you guys think about the looks above? Do you have any more ideas you could share? Write it down in the comments below!

If you guys want to stay updated about this fire Music Festival happening at Aseana City Open Grounds on April 9, follow them in their social media accounts below:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paradiseimf/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/paradiseimf Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/paradiseimf

You can also check their website here for more details and go here if you're ready to purchase. See you guys there!

Walk the talk

My Heels story + Contest

All Photos by Zedrik Europe

I wasn't always into heels this much. About a year ago, I remember being more of a sneaker (or any flat shoes for that matter) kind of girl. I would immediately brush off the idea of wearing heels when it was suggested and would only give in if there was a super important formal event I needed to attend.

Fast forward to now, I sometimes find myself wearing heels almost everyday in a week. Even if it's just a casual window shopping sesh at the mall, or a quick dinner date with Miguel after work, I would still opt for heels. They might be torture, but if you find a great pair with just the right height and fit, you'll be hooked.

Heels, for me, can put some fancy or edgy (depending on what kind of heels) vibe in any outfit. Imagine a plain white shirt with light denim jeans. Imagine it being paired with sneakers, versus being paired with heels. It gives off a completely different look. I'm not saying sneakers aren't cool, they are and I love them but if you want a more put together, #GirlBoss look, heels are your bestfriend.

CHARLES & KEITH is definitely one of my favorite brands when I'm on the look out for new heels and bags to match with them. They got all sorts to fit every personality, I definitely found several pieces that spoke to me and thus, another haul.

Read more and see how I style my heels in my daily grind. Maybe it be a lunch date, chill hangout with friends, or to events.

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Hybrid Events

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A Hybrid event calls for a hybrid outfit.

/ hy·brid / adjective of mixed character; composed of mixed parts.

What's a hybrid event? It's kind of hard for me to explain, it's like those fancy events sprinkled with a little urban street culture. If you're going to an affair like that, you have to look the part, too.

For events like those, I usually combine contrasting pieces. For this outfit, a sleek black body-con dress, minimal nude heels, neat low bun hair, spectacles, and to throw the outfit off the fancy schmancy category, I put on an oversized vintage bomber jacket and a structured leather backpack.

What I'm wearing:

Dress by H&M | Bomber Jacket is thrifted | Nude Heels and Structured backpack by CHARLES & KEITH | Spectacles by Shade.specs | Necklace by Forever 21

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Lunch Date with the Boyfriend

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I'm really not into feminine ensembles but I can't help but lean on to my lady like side whenever I go on dates with my boyfriend. Well actually, if you took out the scarf I used as a headband and replaced the pretty peachy bag with something more dark and hard edged this is a pretty edgy outfit. Hah hah... like I said I'm not girly, so to make up for the overall cheerful hue of this look, I put on these timeless black strappy heels.

I absolutely love this color scheme a lot though. Light denim really looks great with light airy colors. It just screams, "hola I'm so fuuuhresh and ready for Spring!" Kidding. Half kidding.

What I'm wearing:

Nude bodysuit by Topshop | Mom Jeans by Levis | Black double strap heels and peach handbag by CHARLES & KEITH | Scarf by Céline | Watch by Triwa

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Chill sesh with friends

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If there's anybody else I can totally be myself with aside from my family and boyfriend, it's with my friends. They have seen me without make up, in my house clothes, they've seen me wasted, haggard, and all other uglier sides of me. So what's the point of dressing up when I'm just going out for a chill sesh with them?

Now I know what you're all thinking, "chill sesh but you're wearing those heels????" I get you, but like I said before, when you find the right height and fit, it won't be so much of a torture anymore and with jeans that look like you were just washed up from a shipwreck plus a cute little backpack and pastel pink sunnies, well, for me, this outfit is as chill and happy-g0-lucky-vibe as it gets. Besides, the warm camel color of the shoes is really calming.

What I'm wearing:

White halter top by Topshop | Frayed Jeans by Zara | Brown Platform heels, Pastel Pink Mirrored sunnies, and Structured backpack by CHARLES & KEITH

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These outfits basically sum up how I wear my heels on a daily basis. If you're the type who, like my old self, immediately dismisses the idea of heels, I say give it a chance. It opens up a whole new set of styles and looks. Trust me ;)

Which of these looks do you like most? Share it with me as 1 lucky reader might stand a chance to win a shopping spree at CHARLES & KEITH through the following steps:

• Like the CHARLES & KEITH Facebook page at facebook.com/charleskeith.ph
• Like your favorite look from my STORIES through this link: http://bit.ly/CHARLESKEITHSTORIES
• Tag 2 of your friends on the photo you liked

We will be choosing 1 winner of a P10,000 shopping spree at the CHARLES & KEITH flagship store in Bonifacio High Street from the look with the most likes! Contest ends on Easter Sunday, March 27th and winner will be announced on March 28th.

Open to Philippine Residents only

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Special thank you again to my loves Zedrik Europe and Duff Orate. I owe you guys!