Purpose and Path

It took me nearly two years to realize the difference between the two.

Purpose is the final destination.

Path is the road going there.

I've always been the goal-oriented type but sometimes I get engrossed with a certain path that despite the obvious humps and hazards, I still continue to fight my way forward just to stay on that path. Even if the path isn't anymore leading me to my original purpose. Even if there are safer and more pleasant paths in sight. 

I have journeyed on the wrong path for so long and have encountered more than enough troubles because of it. Now, all I really want is to quit and take another path--other paths that could lead me closer to my purpose. I know I sound trivial but don't worry, this isn't about medschool and being a doctor. Heeee.

 At this point, all I really want is to be at peace and to learn how to properly apply liquid liner on my upper lids. Promise, I didn't mean this to be overdone. :|

| vest: thrift find | shorts: Urban Outfitters | vintage backpack: Gucci | shoes: Asian Vogue | photos by Jeph Delfin |

Aaaah, this will always be my comfort hymn.
 I'll be watching Serendipity tonight until I fall asleep. 

Sweet dreams, everyone! :) 

Much love,

Mela

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Better Days Are Ahead

And better photos I hope.

I'm beginning to grow frustration over blurry photos and DSLR settings. 

I swear I did all the best that I could to salvage them via photo processing but the images still look very soft and overexposed. I hope that you guys will still be with me in this time of blogging tribulation. 

I will not stop until I figure this thing out. Promise. :)

| top: c/o cousin Paola | skater skirt: DIY | shoes: So! Fab | photos by John and Jeph Delfin |
Hype this on Lookbook.nu here!

Because it's spring on the other side of the world, I came up with a spring-inspired weekend outfit.
This sure will look good with a floral crown but I decided to make the look more edgy with a pseudo-side shave. Blogger friends Kookie Buhain, Em Trava and Gizelle Faye have been rockin' this hairstyle for quite some time so I wanted to try it myself by sweeping all of my hair to one side, taking advantage of my wide forehead. I'm certainly not bold enough to get half of my head shaved but I think I'll need a haircut one of these days. Hairstyle suggestions, please? :)


Much love,
Mela

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Fusing Fashion & Philanthropy: Wild Soul Sunglasses

It’s not every day that we get to do what we love for a living whilst also being a shining light to those in need. To most, achieving just one of the above would be enough. But not for Marc Battipaglia and Andres Beker who created philanthropic fashion label Wild Soul Sunglasses in November 2012.

Wild Soul was created on the premise that there are causes greater than our own that can and must be supported. They are dedicated to giving supporters of Wild Soul a platform to help the causes that are close to their hearts.
Black Owls.


*Black Lions.


Black Rhinos.

Wild Soul’s range of sunglasses which are all named after untamed animals (the Lion, the Owl, the Elephant, and the Rhino) help customers “be wild” while helping them “fulfill their soul”, giving a portion of each sale to a charity of the customer's choice. 

Each pair of sunglasses are meticulously crafted after the intricate features of the animal whose name they carry and are available in several rich and earthy colors using quality materials.

Blue Elephants.


Earth Rhinos.


Emerald Rhinos.

But it wasn't always an easy road for Marc and Andres to get their vision off the ground. After meeting in college, the pair became instant friends and knew they both shared a passion for design while incorporating charity and giving back into everything they build.

Manufacturers backing out, website designers who could not accurately portray their vision, delayed and lost shipments, all the while balancing work and law school, were just some of the obstacles that were trying to throw them off track in their quest to fuse fashion and philanthropy. However these hurdles didn’t stop the duo.

Spotted Ivory Elephants.


*Spotted Ivory Lions.


Tortoise Lions.

Today, their mornings begin with emails being sent from Argentina, updated tasks lists in New York City, and their days coming to a close with orders from the other side of the world.*Tortoise Owls.


Yellow Elephants.

Marc and Andres’ willful persistence has shown that passion for a cause can overcome the biggest of hurdles. They have successfully bridged the gap between fashionistas and philanthropists worldwide, affirming that there is a little Wild to everyone’s Soul.

Wild Soul Founders--Mark and Andres. <3 p="">

| Text and photos were provided by www.youngrepublic.com. |

Wild Soul is currently available at Young Republic, discover + shop the world of indie fashion -at www.youngrepublic.com

The ones with *asterisks* are my top picks. Which are yours?


Much love,
Mela

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Written In The Stars

If you consider a Php1000 head-to-toe look as "thrifting", then I certainly am stingy.

Mom got this dress for Php700+ from a local boutique and never worn it even once. Hence, as the self-proclaimed *coughs* heiress *coughs*  of everything she has, I took this lovely out for some sunlight and fresh air. 

Peplum bodycons are commonly night dresses but since I couldn't think of any party that I'd probably go to in the next few days or weeks, I came up with a summery twist.  

Not a single centavo was spent for any of the items I'm wearing (because they're mom's) save of course for the shoes. I bought them two years ago when Solemate by SM Dept Store first came out. Buy One, Take One for Php399! I barely used them so they got buried under shoeboxes until I forgot I owned something like them. Only then when I looked for unused clothes and shoes to sell did I find them again. 

Everything in this post was written in the stars, ha! Need my sunnies say more? :)

| Photos by Sandy Delfin--who owns everything I'm wearing here except the shoes. XD |

Hype this on Lookbook.nu here!

Have you ever tried thrifting?

I'd love to hear your stories.

Much love,

Mela

P.S. Something about the sunnies that made my nose more pointed. Awkward. But I like it. :|

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Blogoversary Series: Easy Breezy

One of the more frequent reminders I get from my mom is to Take It Easy.

I've always been the kind who stresses one's self too much whenever something needs to be done. 

I may not rant a lot amidst people but deep inside I am sick and full of complaints, frustrations, and ridiculous thoughts that are really oftentimes unnecessary. So I always end up realizing that I could have also achieved the same goals taking the easier path--the one that doesn't involve pessimism and pushing myself too hard. Sometimes it takes a trip to the spa or salon for me to realize that. XD

Because the first one was so lady-like and sophisticated (Blogoversary Series: Signature Poses) and the second was fun, girly, and youthful (Blogoversary Series: Twenteen Three), I wanted this part to just be as relaxed and effortless as possible--something that any girl could wear to the mall with friends.

Everyone loves skater skirts these days because of their versatility--they can be worn for day-to-day activities, in sports, or even in formal events depending the the top and shoes that you'll pair them with. Cropped tops like this are usually loose. Instead of tucking it in, I decided to pull one shoulder down to create a "skinny illusion". I'm using the same satchel as the Blogoversary Series: Twenteen Three post with it's hidden shoulder strap revealed. Very functional bag, isn't it?

Minus the shoes and accessories, this entire outfit from Stiles by Fabshop only costs: Php895!

cropped top: Php150

skater skirt: Php195

satchel: Php550

What a steal!

| cropped top, skater skirt, satchel: Stiles by Fabshop | sneaker wedges: Gifts Ahoy | aztec necklace: Mizar Clothing | neon bangles: SM Accessories | photography: April Garcia of Studio23 Photography-Events |

Hype this on Lookbook.nu here! 

If you want amazing photographs like the ones in this Blogoversary Series, "Like" Studio23 Photography-Events' page in Facebook or visit their newly-launched website via studio23.ph for affordable packages and personalized quotations!

I hope you enjoyed this blog series. :)

Much love,

Mela

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Blogoversary Series: Twenteen Three

Sometimes, I feel like I've missed a lot during my teenage years.

Being the homebuddy that I am, night parties, dancing, beer bonding sessions, and tambayans were never really my kind of stuff. I'd rather stay in my room and read a good book, go window shopping (until I end up shopping, uh-oh) or treat myself in the spa or salon. More often than not, I go through these simple adventures on my own.   

I know. I know. My life seems a bore. But looking back at my younger years, I believe that I also have a lot of stories to tell. Like reporting in national TV for KNN, exploring the province (and beyond!) for interesting segment scoops, meeting other young journalists, facilitating weekend retreats and encounters around the country, teaching Catechism on summer breaks, trying hard to be a ramp model, and various perks in between. My fashion blogging journey came a bit later but won't it be one exciting tale too?

Each of us grew up differently in different environments, from different families, with different groups of friends. With so many differences, I guess what really matters is living the best of our lives with each of own unique, best ways. By that, despite different pasts, presents, and futures, we can altogether someday look back at our lives with no bitterness and regrets.

May all of you, teenagers, enjoy your teenage years as much as I did!

This part of my Blogoversary Series is inspired by my teenage self.

My usual activities were spinster-ish but there was never a time that I forgot to look presentable and be the girly-girl that I am. I've been in love with colors since the day I got my first Barbie doll. Even now, I still enjoy playing dress up (with myself as the Barbie this time--haha). I loved how these pieces from Stiles by Fabshop exuded my fun, preppy and youthful side. 

Knowing that Stiles is a sponsor to top bloggers like Laureen Uy, I was also apprehensive of not being able to give justice to their products. Thank goodness for April Garcia of Studio23 Photography-Events, the entire outfit turned out as beautiful as it is in person. Thanks also to her friend, Caroline, for helping us out. :)

| peplum top, animal print leggings, satchel: Stiles by Fabshop | bohemian wedges: Asian Vogue | 

photography: April Garcia of Studio23 Photography-Events |

Hype this on Lookbook.nu here!

Having your birthday, anniversary, or wedding soon? 

You might want to avail of Studio23 Photography-Events's Summer Promo! The studio package above is now marked down from Php700 to Php350! It's the perfect gift to your inaanaks (godchildren), too. 

Visit their office or contact them via the numbers above for more details!

You can also follow them on INSTAGRAM:

@stilesbyfabshop

@itsmetatzy

Missed the first part of my Blogoversary Series? Click the link below to keep up:

Blogoversary Series: Signature Poses

Have an amazing week everyone! :D

Much love,
Mela

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Blogoversary Series: Signature Poses

April is What,When and Wearabouts' birth month!

This blog turned two last April 1st and to celebrate my second anniversary as a blogger, I'll be showcasing a three-part series in collaboration with Studio23 Photography-Events and Stiles by Fabshop.

Studio23 Photography-Events is the love child of the sweet, kikay events and portrait photographer extraordinaire, April Garcia. Ever since its debut on February of this year, Studio23 Photography-Events has proven its sparkle with creative and affordable packages for weddings, product launches, conferences, private parties like debuts and university balls, home and outdoor photography throughout Metro Iloilo. Studio23 Photography-Events is located at Unit 202D, 2nd Floor Perpetual Succor Business Centre Building, 38 San Agustin Street, Iloilo City. They cater to out-of-town clients, too!

I was also very thrilled when Stiles by Fabshop agreed on a double collab. I've had boutique and brand sponsorships before but this was the first time for me to actually handpick, pull out and style items that I liked for a shoot. Hearing from the countries' top bloggers, I always thought that pulling out is fun and as easy as dumping clothes in a shopping cart; but the sea of pretty clothes in Stiles made my mini-errand a little bit more challenging. If the mind-boggling stress of pathology and microbio practical exams was like this, I would never ever complain of daily exam schedules. :D

Here's one of my top three picks from their latest collection. 

What do you think?    

| top and skirt: Stiles by Fabshop | shoes: Janeo by SM Dept Store | bangles: Maruyog Charms | 

photography by April Garcia of Studio23 Photography-Events |

Stiles by Fabshop is located at Shopper's Avenue Valeria Street, Iloilo City (beside Coffee Break, in front of ACE Hardware). Visit their Facebook page for stylish and pocket-friendly pieces!

You can also follow them on INSTAGRAM:

@stilesbyfabshop

@itsmetatzy

There are thousands of fashion bloggers around the world. 

But in my little niche called Roxas Hall, I think I am the only one. Being an ordinary med student and a blogger at the same time is awkward, embarrassing, and very very humbling. More often than not, I walk the corridors in lousy, full-support stockings (ughhh to weakling veins) with no makeup or colorful accessories as I usually do in my blog photos. One can easily make a "Reality vs Expectations" meme out of my med student vs blogger facades. Seriously. =.=

Despite all that, I'm very thankful for my friends and classmates' support even if that means endless taunts, wacky and exaggerated versions of my poses, and saying "Wear is *__insert name here__*" to whoever doctor or classmate or faculty wearing stylish clothes. Those brief moments of laughter always make my day. 

Now here's a tribute to the best friends and batchmates in the world.

Check out their "Wear is Mela" poses. HAHAHA

| photos from Glenn Oyson and Mark Alfabeto |

I love you groupmates (with good fashion sense)! :P


Much love,

Mela

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