How to wear denim this Spring

Photos by Zedrik Europe

Spring is here! In Philippine context, that means we say bye to our cloudy afternoons and chilly nights, and say hello to the blistering midday heat, 6:30 PM sunsets, and humid nights that got us sweating balls.

I've been fascinated with the Autumn/Winter line the local stores have been releasing. The warm camels and maroons, luxurious suede and other cozy materials. However with our current high temperature days ahead, I think wearing the latter would be self-torture. So I paid a visit to one of my favorite stores, Forever 21, and hauled a lot from their light pastel clothing and denim collection... the perfect pair for a bright sunny day.

Read more to see 3 quick looks on how you can style the most versatile of versatile clothes.

Look #1: Street Chill

I don't know what was up with this day but it was just super hot to the point that I really didn't want to dress up anymore. Just kidding, I wanted to dress up, but in the most comfy and I-just-randomly-pulled-these-pieces-from-my-closet kind of way. I wanted to wear less fabric, but didn't want anything tight fitting or something I couldn't move in without worrying if my butt cheeks were showing — thus, the boy shorts.

This outfit was really refreshing and something new to be honest. I remembering vowing not to wear shorts that weren't short shorts. I mean, what was the point of wearing shorts when they weren't short, right? But nah, these felt great. Thank you Kendall Jenner for your inspiration. I also remember telling myself I wouldn't wear two bright colors at the same time. I was afraid I might look messy and not put together overall but I guess that's the magic of soft pastel colors.

What I'm wearing:

Cap by Supahshop | Top & Boy Shorts from Forever 21 | Shoes by Adidas | Specs by Shade.specs

Look #2: Dressy Classy

When people think of denim, they usually associate it with being casual, informal, and other things along that line. If you want to dress up with denim, you might want to check out this ensemble.

I wore this for MAC's event. Good thing I decided to dress up 'cause boy, that was one of a hella fancy event but yes of course, it's MAC after all. I think pairing a clean piece with a good pair of heels and a sleek purse automatically makes something a little bit appropriate for the champagne and fancy finger food. Topped it with matching brown scarf, watch, and belt.

What I'm wearing:

Jumpsuit by Forever 21 | Scarf & Bag by Céline |Belt & Shoes by Charles & Keith | Watch by Triwa

Look #3: Chic Chill

This look is pretty similar to the first look. However if you're the type who's a bit one the frilly lace-y side, you might prefer this one instead.

Boyfriend jeans are usually paired with equally boyish pieces. loose or fitted plain shirts, tanks, or a button down shirt. Why not go for something completely contrasting from the worn down slouchy look of these borrowed jeans? Think: lazy Coachella minus all the crazy fringes and bling + sneakers.

What I'm wearing:

Necklace, Top, and Jeans by Forever 21 | Shoes by Adidas

Which of the three looks do you prefer or scream 'you'? Do you think these ensembles are sunny day friendly enough? Let me know in comments below!

Also, be sure to check out Forever 21's racks when you can. Last time I checked, They have loads of new denim and beach/music festival appropriate pieces (and a lot are coming by the way).

-

Special thanks to my friends Zedrik Europe for taking all these breathtaking photos and Duff Orate for assisting me during shoots. It took us three days to create all these photos and it wouldn't be possible without these two ♥

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.