NO EXCESS BAGGAGE FOR PARISIAN SHOES & BAGS

It's all about making a strong statement afterall...

We've witnessed the successful fashion facelift and relaunch of the PARISIAN shoe line the seasons past, as females went all agog with sexier, trendier and meaner footwear that can walk the ramp on to the streets. 

And since SM Department Store has it all for you, now comes a collection of bags to match your lovely shoes.  As you mingle your way to merriment this Yuletide season, let other girls look at you in envy as you flash your killer heels that go perfectly well with your no-ordinary PARISIAN bag.

Check out PARISIAN Shoes and Bags in all SM Department Stores nationwide.

Meg Bag, available in Nude, Black, Red and White.

Drew bag, available in Black, Taupe and Wine Red; Madge shoes, availabe in Brown and Black.

Yasmeen clutch, available in Black, pink and Champagne; Kristen pumps available in black, wine red and gold. 



Photography: Pat Dy
Styling: Luis Espiritu
Makeup: Bobby Carlos

DOING THE RIGHT MOVE

If most people are prejudged from head to foot at first glance, allow WADE to show the steps to stand out rightfully – and fashionably – this season.

And that will require heels tall enough to create a lasting impression! In a galaxy of parties and seemingly endless Yuletide frenzy, WADE encourages women to rock their frocks with strappy metallics, studded platforms or ultra-glossy pumps as soon as the stars are out. Or better yet, unleash your wild side and amplified sexuality with feline-printed shoes for added meow factor. Finish off with piled-on chain belts, a bombardment of assorted bangles, a patent clutch, a growling stare, and so much more!

On Luda: Black high gloss pumps with warmers (P1499.99); Black patent clutch (P899.00); Metallic chrome slim belts (P299.00 each); Assorted bangles (P299.00 per set).

On Luda: Snow leopard-spotted pumps (1299.00); Assorted bangles (P299.00 per set); Black handbag with snakeskin print (P899.00); Chain belt with leopard-printed trim (P169.00).

On Luda: Metallic silver sandals (P1099.00); Mustard yellow bag (P999.00); Assorted bangles (P299.00 per set); Slim belts (P199.00 each).

As the revelry continues, WADE’s collection for men cannot be outdone. Get in to the groove with streamlined, part-sporty, part-utilitarian high-cut sneakers (in suede, matte rubber or shiny synthetics) that up dynamic sex appeal when you hit the dance floor. Or do it extra cool ala Coco Martin (the brand’s current endorser), whose footwear choices include sleek flats and casual laced-up sneakers that vary from checkered, metallic-trimmed, polished patent, anything from black, gray to midnight blue – then party on!

On Coco: Gray high-cut rubber sneakers (P2099.00)

 On Coco: Black patent sneakers with silver trim (P1899.00); Black bag (799.00)

 On Coco: Black polished high-cut sneakers (P2099.00); Black bag (P799.00).

On Coco: Dark blue patent hip shoes (P1799.00); On Luda: Leopard-printed pumps (P1299.00); Assorted bangles (P299.00 per set); Chain belt with leopard-printed trim (P169.00).

On Coco: Gray high-cut sneakers with ribbed opening (P2099.00); On Luda: Black and gold X-strapped heels (P1099.00); Bangles (P899.00per set); Belts (P199.00 each).
 

On Coco: Black suede high-cut sneakers (2099.00); On Luda: White studded platforms with wooden heels (1099.00); Lace shoulder bag (P899.00); White slim belts (P169.00each); Assorted bangles (P299.00per set).


To view WADE’s holiday collection, visit the stores at Trinoma, Marquee Mall Pampanga, Glorietta 3, Ayala Center Cebu, Market! Market!, SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, The Block SM North EDSA, SM City Manila, SM City Cebu, SM City Clark, Robinsons Place Manila, Robinsons Galleria, Robinsons Metroeast, Eastwood Mall, The Shops Greenhills Shopping Center, Cash & Carry Mall Makati, Robinsons Department Store Manila, and The Landmark Trinoma. Also check out their website at http://www.wade.com.ph/.


Photography: Ken Go
Art Direction & Styling: Mike de Guzman & George Palmiano (MGP)
Hair & Makeup: Archie Tolentino (Maybelline)
Models: Coco Martin & Luda Nikitina (Visage)

DECEMBER 2010 COVER OF THE MONTH: Amanda Griffin Strikes for more for Rogue Magazine

ROGUE Magazine definitely knows what December is all about - it's the season to be merry!

Bringing joy to the hearts of men, super-hot AMANDA GRIFFIN (model and former VJ) poses the second time for ROGUE for a tickling Yuletide cheer. While we envelop ourselves in the cold, chilly holiday weather, Amanda flaunts her good stuff and shows that she still has everything to sizzle and blaze on the cover, and leave men chanting gloria in exelcis deo for more.

Photography: Marc Nicdao

Styling: LA Consing-Lopez



WHEN VALENTINA GOES TO THE OPERA

MARGE ABAS, up and coming accessory designer, and her lucky stars read: her line ESTRELLAS MANILA will definitely shine.

As soon as the stars are out, dazzle a la red carpet drama with her slitherin' Valentina clutch collection. Drift away into the beauty of this wide array of arm candies handcrafted in a variety of authentic snakeskin leather in Fall colors. Skins, beads, stones, charms and sparkles are perfect templates for an evening accessory that leave others hissing in envy.

Glorianna - Brown snakeskin sequined clutch accentuated by charms & assorted beads/stones

Evania - Red snakeskin clutch accentuated by vintage gold firefly charms and assorted glass/stone beads

Mackenzie - Silver snakeskin oversized clutch accentuated with a silver dragon art deco

Roxanne - Gold clutch accentuated by vintage gold firefly charms and assorted glass/stone beads

Callie - Silver clutch accentuated by assorted beads/stones and art deco

Natalia - Grey snakeskin medium clutch accentuated with a silver art deco and detachable strap

 
Of course, the drama and spectacle wouldn't be complete without Marge's elegant neckpiece designs. Spark up the dark, cold winter nights with a cosmic explosion of stellar-glam jewelries. For Estrellas Manila, the bigger the impact, the better!
 
 

Bela - 23" beautiful blend of intertwining woven vintage gold chains with flower accents and yellow jade drop pendant.

Shillem - Layered body chain accentuated by a gun metal skeletal chain mail.

Serah - 43" Multifunctional braided chain choker neckpiece in vintage gold and black accentuated by ribbed agate stones and layered chains.

Tola - 27" Cork necklace accentuated by a vintage gold spring hinge and studs

Levi - 27" Intertwined chain neckpiece with faux pearls, glass beads/stones, silver filigree spacers accentuated by a ribbon art deco.

Shadrach - 19" Chrysocolla stone bib chain neckpiece.

Misha-el - One sided layered vintage gold chain neckpiece with studs.


For inquiries, contact Marge Abas at 0916-5731583 or search Estrellas Manila at Facebook.

PASKO IN THE CITY

We know it's coming - or haven't you felt it?

In a season of silver bells, jingle bells, tinkerbells and all other bells, Holiday 2010 seems lackluster. Hard times obviously took its toll as most people have no budgey to put a helluvah show. Not much lanterns on the streets... Less spectacular twinkling light displays... The Christmas trees and other decors are no longer selling... Who took away the stardust... my glamorous, bongga Yuletide spirit?

Nevertheless, there's no stopping to celebrating the most wonderful time of the year! As I went around Metro Manila, these familiar places put the groove back to my bewildered Christmas moment - and it seems like becoming a child all over again!

What a bright time, it's the right time... - We all know it's a yearly thing, but Ayala Ave. never fails to impress! This time, the color theme is white and gold - very sushal! Steady white rice bulbs covers the shrubs along the road with hanging cylindrical rods that animate with moving lights that seem to drip downward. Commuters, passersby, drivers and everybody on the go are hooked - nevermind the horrendous traffic in Makati!

Oh Christmas Tree! - A striking pink-lighted tree (that looks like cherry blossoms in winter) and snowy, butterfly-winged ballerina figures welcome shoppers upon entry at Greenbelt mall. If only I could take those home!

Best in show - Pure class! Rustan's Makati is such an attraction with its vivid Cirque-themed Christmas window display. Every window was well-thought of! Pang-rich talaga!

Carnival feat - Another wow window by Rustan's Makati. Carousel + reindeers + gifts = I wanna ride the sleigh with Santa Claus tonight!

Again and again! - I went to Makati the following day and can't get enought of taking pictures! Anuvah!!!

Toys R Us - Greenhills Shopping Center cannot be ignored with their North-Pole-kind-of-toy-factory-in-Santa-land concept. Too bad I didn't get to see it at night when I am sure it looks more candy-spectacular.

Up and Away - Dreams are surely made of these... If we all can fly and dance in the sky... at least in Trinoma's dreamland...


These are surely austere times. But every corner, every sign tell that Christmas is almost here! So long as family and loved ones are there, and dear friends to celebrate with (in my case, so long as there is ham and queso de bola on noche buena, hehehe), let's all be merry and thankful, and hope that next year will be better. So smile Pinoy, kahit bungi! 

MARITHE + FRANCOIS GIRBAUD LAUNCHES WATTWASH™ FOR FALL/WINTER 2010

What's exciting about fashion, apart from cutting-edge designs and upcoming trends, is the kind of statement that most brands or designers do. These are cheeky statements that separate the genious from the ordinary, echoing relevant and important messages that tackle socio-cultural awareness, political and even religious matters, and earth issues that involve  humanity as a whole. 

This Fall/Winter 2010, MARITHÉ + FRANCOIS GIRBAUD celebrates the freedom of movement and expression. It defends the right to be different, in culture, look and attitude.

The global brand expresses its concern to save the earth by being ecologically correct and aesthetically unusual with its WATTWASH™ collection. WATTWASH™ aspires to save the most essential resource to mankind: water. It uses laser to create a multitude of worn-out looks, patterns and textures to the garment, saving 97.5% of water usually used when bleaching and acid-washing jeans.

For this season, the men’s collection is drawn from the maritime and navy ensemble mixed with the edge of a city worker. Jackets show much masculinity through its well structured cuts and stitches. The jeans allow free movement and elude a more charming casual wear. Shades of ash and dark blue make the collection pieces versatile, a ready mix for work and play.

Stashaway Jacket (WATTWASH)

The STASHAWAY jacket gives the notion that even men can look chic. This cut and sew denim jacket is part of the WATTWASH collection that’s all about saving water and the environment. It has a maritime character represented by the flap on the chest area and buttoned pockets on the side.

Nolag Fly

The NOLAG FLY pants are set apart by comfort and style, with its stretch fabric and seamless leg panel for easy body movement. This X pocket jean has a button opening with stitching that gives the illusion of lacing at the front portion. Wear it with a suit jacket and laced shoes for that sleek city look.

Scarface Jacket (WATTWASH)

Suit up with the SCARFACE ash denim jacket and go for a more European appeal with its single chest pocket and detailed stitching. The button down jacket has glen plaid patterns made possible by the environmental-friendly laser treatment known as WATTWASH giving it that unique ecological etch.

X Edge Pants (WATTWASH)

This straight cut denim epitomizes the perfect jeans for men. The X EDGE jean has a sacrum cut that eases the way jeans are worn. This low-waist denim has a versatile wash that fits any given occasion. Support the WATTWASH collection with the X EDGE denims for men.


A more playful and experimental side is seen in the women’s collection as laces, ribbons and ties quirk up the outfit allowing different shapes and personalities in the garments. The dresses express elegance in relaxed silhouettes, changing lengths and figures personalized for the woman who wears it. The jackets have androgynous character but still embrace the body in perfect fashion. Intensely subtle tones of night skies with touches of bright colors make this collection pleasurably fit, following the whims of ones body and mood.

Farfaldos Dress

Only the FARFALDOS dress can pull out graceful and chic with a twist of street. This haltered dress has strings on the chest to create a sheering effect, forming drapes at the front. The adjustable string at the bottom of the dress offers a variety of style, from layered effects to a short balloon dress. The metallic colors don’t over power but flatter the skin to give off an elegant look. Wear it on a night out with friends or on formal occasions, you can never go wrong with this dress.

Laced Cadet

Feel the military vibe of the LACE CADET pants as the lacings on the side seam adjust its tightness pants together with the button opening at the bottom. This army enthused apparel is strategically cut on the knee part for more relaxed movement and comfort.

Pedal Gear Pants (WATTWASH)

Go for a more laid back look with the PEDAL GEAR denims. These basic Capri pants are treated with laser for more uniquely washed patterns. Wear them with pride and join the advocacy in saving water with the WATTWASH Collection.

Sporter Craft Jacket

The SPORTER CRAFT jacket is a classy military inspired cover up with its navy blue hue and two side zipper pockets. This overlapping silver-buttoned jacket is made for city slickers. Layer it on a long-sleeved polo paired with flare pants for that corporate-casual attire.

Srevnoc Dress

The SREVNOC dress isn’t your ordinary jumper dress. Its cut and shape gives a woman a flattering silhouette. This makes a great afternoon dress when paired with sandals and a sun hat. Match it with high boots for a night out and make use of the dual zipper opening at the front of the dress for a more playful twist to the outfit.

Groove Jacket (WATTWASH)

The perfect street wear can be defined with the GROOVE jacket. The classic denim jacket is a staple must have, especially for this fall season. Its waistband jacket and two pockets with a tax is used to emphasize the woman’s curve, showing femininity through rugged-casual wear.


To view Marithé + François Girbaud’s expressive collection and to learn more about WATTWASH™, visit a store near you or go to www.girbaud.com.

FACE OFF: Memo Vs. Parisian Ad Campaigns

No contraversy intended here. But I noticed a strong resemblance between these two ads from MEMO and PARISIAN by SM:

The layouts are quite similar with both brands using four female foreign models (Memo has two or three of the same models as Parisian's). All models are also wearing black dresses with high heels - side by side, legs vs. legs. Obviously though, the Parisian ad for the latest Philippine Fashion Week was done more tastefully both in photography, lighting, styling and attitude, while Memo's ad look more like ahmmmm... a catalogue. To borrow Andre Leon Talley's famous line for ANTM, Memo's ad was a "dreckitudeeee!"

Kudos to Parisian for bringing more edge to their ad campaigns!

NOVEMBER COVER OF THE MONTH: Cherie Gil Goes Daring for Mega Magazine

And so you want fierce huh...

Our favorite contravida of all time, CHERIE GIL, shows 'em who's the boss on the cover of MEGA Magazine's November 2010 issue. Ultimately sexy, and partly bitchy in vintage denim and Western-inspired outfit, Cherie is no second-rate, trying hard copycattttt!

Photography: Xander Angeles
Styling: Jenni Epperson & Teej Nepomuceno
Makeup: Jigs Mayuga
Hair: Buern Rodriguez


For this shoot, the actress gets tough in workwear boots, leather and ripped jeans while clinging on ropes and hay, exposing her navel and her still-gorgeous physique amidst thoroughbreds. I have soft spot on horses, and pictorials like this one automatically spark my interest! And by the way, Jenni Epperson (of Philippine Daily Inquirer) gets to be the guest editor for this issue.

I admit to being an ultimate fan of this on-screen villainess - but in real life she's very nice, confident, loveable and easy to work with. And she remembers me even after we did a project many years ago! Bravo Cherie Gil!

Are you SPOOKTACULAR?

I don't know why, but Halloween for me is the best time of the year. All those costumes, parties, spooks, monsters, trick or treating... and oh my, this is the only moment when I can be hellishly weird without even trying! 

Now, get ready to chic, rattle and roll as SM BOYS TEENS WEAR lures everyone to surrender to the dark side with spine-tingling graphic tees. Say "Boo!" with iconic scary movie characters like Freddie Krueger (Nightmare at Elm Street), Chuckie (Child's Play), Jason Voorhees (Friday the 13th), Michael Myers (Halloween), Jack Skellington (Nightmare before Christmas) that make their way into spooktacular T-shirts, as well as hordes of skulls, skeletons and pumpkins that glow in the dark.

Photography: Frank Hoefsmidt
Styling: MGP
Grooming: Bobby Carlos


Check out this limited "to-die-for" Halloween collection at the Boys Teens Wear Section in leading SM Department Stores nationwide.