This February...

I really miss interacting online. Yes, I've been blogging and tweeting, but lately, I don't really have the time to talk to other people using my social media accounts. I hardly comment on other bloggers, haven't "surfed" as many websites as I would have wanted to. I guess I just miss everyone. 

I'm juggling a lot of other tasks and I'd rather keep it hush for now and spill the beans only when details are final! I might jinx things! Things are looking good this February and I hope more blessings come my way. Really hopeful!

Yes, I'm busy! But despite the fact that I'm missing out on a lot, you on the other hand should take advantage of a lot of things happening this month! Just look at the line up below:

1. OXYGEN Internship

Now is your chance to be an intern for a major apparel brand! Oxygen is on the look out for two fashion-forward interns to help them this summer with go sees, styling, Philippine Fashion Week and more! It's a wonderful opportunity to those who want a serious career in fashion. See more details below:

2. National Arts Month

Freeway and Solo are celebrating National Arts Month this February! As part of the celebration, Freeway's Sionil Jose & Manansala Collections, plus Solo's Kenkoy Collection will be on sale from February 23 - 26. Go and buy something proudly Pinoy at discounted prices!

3. James Franco for 7 For All Mankind

7 For All Mankind, a brand of denim-lifestyle products, unveils its latest Spring 2012 campaign which debuts with a series of short teaser videos which will culminate in a full-length feature film to be released in May. It tells the narrative of the brand which is about the modern and elevated California Lifestyle. 

The whole campaign is in the form of an art film directed and created by award-winning Hollywood actor James Franco. Would you believe how multi-talented he is?! This is definitely interesting. 

4. BLANC by Gold Dot

One of my favorite local shoe brands, Gold Dot, has another surprise to all of us fashion, err... shoe lovers! The brand recently came up with a diffusion line called BLANC. Contrary to Gold Dot's unique designs and sky-high platforms and trademark heels, this new line is more basic and price-friendly for girls who love flats.  Check out their creations!

5. Lingerie for Sale!

Nori Tolentino, the proprietor of Brown Bag Market has an online store called LMDV or La Maison de V. Starting this month, her store is selling lingerie and corset items which you may fancy. :)

6. Viva La Manika: Fan Girl

A local online store recently launched its new collection of quirky-vintage resin accessories. Take a peek! 

7. Cosmetologie 2012

Beauty Pro Cosmetics is at the Cosmetologie 2012 from February 21 - 22 (last day today) at SMX Convention center. They hope you can drop by!

Brand Collab: Impulse Co.

Pardon my sleepy face! This is my most decent outfit shot.

Envelope bag c/o Impulse Co., Nails c/o Face Shop

Shift dress, thrifted

Wedges, Gold Dot

Layered neck pieces: Black tassle and silver charm necklaces, bazaar | Spike necklace, Anagon 

Bangle c/o Pink Box

Win this envelope bag! Mechanics posted here.

Wore this to do some errands during the day then a hosting job at night. What I love most about about this shift dress is the comfort it provides. It keeps me looking effortlessly chic and grants me the convenience of either dressing it up or down, whatever way I want it.

During the event that I hosted, I felt a bit out-of-place seeing most of the girls clad in sexy and tight outfits.  When I looked around me, I noticed that I was the only one sporting an over-sized dress in that party. Come to think of it, it's actually a good thing because this dress has set me apart from the crowd.   

I toughened up this look by accessorizing in black and silver, and added one statement piece - a leopard envelope bag c/o Impulse Co.

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HIRE ME: Hosting events for Feb - March! ♥

Last week, I was asked to be an emcee of a pre-Valentine party at Area 05, Superclub in Tomas Morato. OMG! It was WILD I tell you, WILD!

Okay wait... maybe I am exaggerating, haha. You see, I hardly go to the "party-party" kind of parties. Am I making sense? No? Yes? Wait, let me start all over.

It's evident here in my blog that I always go to events, a lot actually. But these "events" that I attend are either a launching of a brand or product, store openings or fashion shows - more of social gatherings. What I'm not fond of are the clubbing kind of parties. Hey, I don't judge! It's just that I'm not into loud music, free flowing [alcoholic] drinks and all-out dancing. Other people coin it the "tugsh-tugsh" party, haha. 

This party that I hosted here was... you probably guessed it right - the "tugsh-tugsh" type. I shared the stage with one of the event's organizers and we took on the lead at the games prepared for the guests. 

First, we conducted a drinking game. I couldn't believe the winner seemed totally okay after taking in about eight (8) shots of vodka. Next up was the crowd favorite: body shots. Here, the participants were paired and one of them would be blind folded while tasked to lick the salt off from his/her partner's intimate body part before drinking the shot. From my point of view, it got steamy while the "drinker" searched his/her partner's body.

If that was provocative for me, imagine what more a kissing game (of some sort)! They called it love dice where the first dice would decide the act (kiss, suck, lick etc.) and the other dice would indicate which body part (lips, cheek, neck etc.) the "dare" would be done. My jaw dropped when two total strangers kissed (the act was supposed to be "suck") in front of a hyper and cheering crowd. Wow, outrageous. 

For me, that was wild. For the others, maybe not so much. I know I'm not a teenager anymore but I'm just not used to these things, haha! Each of us see things differently anyway. 

Overall, the party was rad! I loved the energy of the crowd as they go crazy dancing to the club beats. Most of all, I love my job there which was hosting. Just in case you need a host for your events (I've done blogger events, corporate parties, weddings and birthdays), feel free to hire me! #shamelessplugging

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Personal shopping for DJ Boom

The first "official" personal shopping stint that I'm doing for a client, DJ Boom of 91.5 Big Radio!

I've done this with my other friends but not for work and definitely not for a guy - real guy. Haha!

I was too cautious not to pick anything that he might find eeerrr... quite feminine?

I want this! It's exudes a positive and encouraging statement. Like... let's say, "FIGHT"!

Will definitely get him checkered tops and a lot of button-down shirts!

Also got DJ Boom these denim jackets for a slight edge. No more nice-geeky look!

Promos!

Another promo! They don't run out of sales!

Hello other shoppers! No one seemed to mind me taking photos actually. Haha

Done picking out items for him! Now I'm going to look for all things girly while DJ Boom waits.

Ooooh I want these - both of these! P250/each

Florals and tribal prints!

Look what I found! Red shorts! A must have. With nautical blue stripes lining! :)

All done! Yey!

DJ Boom's kengkoy character forever.

Signing off! Thanks Hang Ten!

I have one mini project right up my sleeve recently and it's styling a promising radio personality, DJ Boom of 91.5 Big Radio. Naks, kung maka-build up, haha! Currently, he's looking for a few sponsors that might help him propel his career. However, both of us totally understand the reality that usually, starting DJs don't get any support from any brands yet - not until they become really famous.

Aside from being relatively new in the radio industry, he hosts a local FM station which targets the mass audience. To a certain extent, this could be a disadvantage (pwede ring advantage) because there's a possibility that companies would  go for those who cater to either the A-B demographic, not masa. Wag na magdeny, aminin! Let's say for example, the boys of Boys Night Out from Magic 89.9, or DJ Mo Twister (when he was still here).

I get it. I know that. This is just how it works in this industry. But what made me agree to working with DJ Boom is the fact that we were classmates in college and I know how good he is. He graduated with honors in UP Diliman and if you talk to him as a regular person, not as his radio character, you can tell that he really has the smarts.

It's just that, here in the country, when one speaks English, he is perceived as intelligent and well-educated while the one who talks in Filipino is assumed to be shallow and an airhead. This is the stereotype currently running in our society. Yes, the Filipino language is for the laymen but it is never inferior. I may blog in English all I want just to cater to all types of readers but it's Filipino that I use in my everyday language.

This is why other disc jocks for English stations are placed on the pedestal while masa DJs are made fun of and not really taken seriously because of their "funny" names like Chris-tsupe or Papa Jack or DJ BoomBay. Succumbing to these circumstances, I remain again, positive that  DJ Boom will find his place in the industry and when he does, a lot more opportunities will come his way. He just needs to work his ass off and has to pay his dues first (O diba, just look at Mr.Fu!). Sooner or later, he'd be reaping the fruits of his labor. This applies to all of us, of course.

But while we wait for the bigger things that will surely come his way as long as he patiently waits, we would like to personally thank Hang Ten for giving him the chance at a mini collaboration. In good faith, I pitched in the proposal and it makes me happy that  Hang Ten was willing to tie-up with me and my buddy DJ Boom. It's a gesture our tandem truly appreciate!

This explains why we were at Hang Ten (SM North Edsa) picking out clothes! Hehe! It has a nice selection for men over there, plus, a lot were on sale! I personally like its button-downs and some kick-ass graphic tees!

HANG TEN PH: Website | Facebook | Twitter

DJ BOOM: Blog | Facebook | Twitter

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GIVEAWAY: Impulse Co. Envelope Bag

Hello Style and Soul readers! Get a chance to win this cute leopard envelope bag from Impulse Co.! Wooot!

Mechanics:

Follow Style and Soul via GFC

Like Style and Soul on Facebook

Like Impulse Co. on Facebook

Tell me what's your favorite Impulse Co. product and why (include the link).

Bonus Points:

* Like my Ana's Super Sale Bazaar entry (+3). Then comment on the photo "Style and Soul X Impulse Co."

* Reblog this photo on tumblr (+2)

Total of possible entries! 

Comment your entry below with the ff. details:

1. Name (FB account name) & E-mail

2. GFC name / user account

3. Answer to my question and link of the product

4. Optional: Link of your reblog on tumblr

5. Optional: Liked Ana's photo!

Contest ends on February 29! 

P.S. Sorry I haven't shipped my other giveaways yet. Medyo busy lang. Promise I'll be more responsible and deal with it soon!

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Free "Indie Friday" Passes

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Lucy Hale ♥ Bench!

Recently, local brands are in this big battle of flying in international celebrities. Penshoppe has introduced Ed Westwick from Gossip Girl and Thai model-actor Maurio Maurer as its new ambassadors last year. Meanwhile, over the weekend,  Bench has launched Pretty Little Liars actress Lucy Hale as one of its new international endorsers joining the league of American Idol finalist David Archuletta, Jerry Yan of F4, Michael Trevino of Vampire Diaries and Fil-Am singer Bruno Mars.

These international celebrities add "premium" and prestige to the brands; especially now that the fashion and retail industry has been extremely competitive and cut-throat. This manifests that Filipino labels are making it in the global market.

The addition of  Lucy Hale in the roster of Bench's star-studded endorsers seemed to be a smart move. I've seen  Lucy in my favorite series like Privileged, and Pretty Little Liars and I've always liked her. Aside from being cute, pretty and bubbly, she actually has a good track record. She doesn't get herself involved in partying, alcohol, drugs or any controversies for that matter unlike other Hollywood celebrities her age or even those who are way younger than her.

People are filled with praises and kind words for the 22-year-old actress which I thought at first was only 16. Haha! Almost everyone will tell you that she exudes a kind and humble personality which is rare these days since fame can actually get in anyone's head. 

I find it actually a bit funny seeing local celebrities talk about how "down-to-earth" she is when they themselves act all "proud" when you see them around. How ironic isn't it? Makes you question what do they really know about humility. Haha. Pardon the sarcastic tone because it's one of my after thoughts that I couldn't really keep to myself. Something we all should reflect upon I guess. :)

But putting that aside, I feel really bad that I came to the event too late and missed her! I thought of following her to the Bench outlet store in Mall of Asia but I wasn't a die-hard-fan that would do so. I remember passing by two teenagers, begging to their mom to see Lucy, "Mom, please, please let us go to Bench and see Lucy Hale!"

Then the mom answered, "No. You've seen her already. Ang daming tao dun."

The teens rant about it, "But moooom!"

And I said to myself, aaaaw ang kill joy ni mommy. Haha! 

L-R: Aisa, Thyz, Reg, Me, Ben Chan, Paul, Arnie, Ava

Took a photo with Mr. Ben Chan, proprietor of Bench

Catch  Lucy Hale on the latest ad campaign of Bench. Take a peek at the behind-the-scenes video of her photo shoot!

Photo Credits: Aisa, Ava

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Everyday is better than Valentine's day

Today is Valentine's Day! But if you're expecting me to share with you something about me and my boyfriend, including a cheesy story on how our date went, well there's really nothing for me to say today. We haven't seen each other since I am busy with a few new projects while he has work to finish as well.

Again, JR and I are not big on occasions because being together for about four years now has made me see that it's the random and ordinary days that we truly feel the love. We have grown to be so secure of each other that we don't gauge our relationship on the special dates that we spend time together but on the little and simple moments that define the kind of relationship we have. For me, each time JR is there when I needed him the most is waaay better than celebrating Valentine's, monthsary, anniversary or any other special date for that matter. :)

Happy Valentine's day everyone! I won't deny that today is still special to a lot of you guys. It's just that, for me, people should live as if it's Feb. 14, wherein the hype for love happens every single day

Before I leave, there's something I want to share: I happen to stumble upon this video which never failed to touch my heart. Here, a group of men serenaded their wives, girlfriends and fiancées - flash mob style. Super sweet. My eyes welled up a bit. Enjoy!

Video credits: Real Men Surprise Their Dates c/o Dove for Men

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Brand Collab: Gifts Ahoy

Dress F-STOP | Bag and belt Thrifted | Shoes Parisian | Necklace Bazaar

Pearl bracelet with cute girly charms, Gifts Ahoy

Floral blazer, thrifted

This Valentine's Day, I would like to show my love to one of my sponsors last January, Gifts Ahoy. 

Gifts Ahoy is an online store that sells a wide range of "branded" fashion items - from clothing to accessories, bags, shoes and novelty items. Some of the brands featured in the store are H&M, Toms, Cotton On, Forever 21, Betsey Johnson, Marc Jacobs and a lot of other labels, including Korean items. I checked out its Forever 21 products and noticed that some of it are actually cheaper compared to the ones being sold at F21 branches here in the country.  Over all price range is around P300 - P1,800.

To those who have a penchant for branded stuff, there's something you might like at Gifts Ahoy. Special thanks to Angel Lim for the gifts I received a few weeks ago!

See me sporting more Gifts Ahoy items in my future posts. Happy hearts day!

Visit Gifts Ahoy on Facebook

For inquiries: Angel Lim (09273712501)

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