Art On My Skirt

    

If you happen to be one of my INSTAGRAM followers, you would've had a clue that I visited some place really quaint last Thursday. Nope, I couldn't tell you guys about it just yet. You'll have to stay tuned, or better yet, visit @wearismela on Instagram for teaser photos. :P

I rarely take outfit posts indoors because of inadequate lighting or the lack of good background. But when I found this chartreuse wall during that "tour", I knew instantly that I found what I've been missing. No exaggeration, but I NEED THIS KIND OF WALL IN MY LIFE (in a few more colors too, if the world permits)! 

I really won't mind having this background once in a while. It doesn't only bring out the colors of my outfit, it can be very practical for rainy days as well--when taking outdoor photos is very tricky.

Cutout tops are perfect for hot, humid days like these. Air-conditioning as some bloggers say.

I opted to soften the black, rockstar vibe by pairing my Mizar Clothing top with this colorful skater skirt from Stiles. The bright wall behind me made me feel like I'm some kind of wall art.

What do you think of this outfit?

Don't forget to hype this on Lookbook.nu and Chictopia!

| top and necklace: Mizar Clothing | skirt: Stiles by Fabshop | Bangles: Maruyog Charms | boots: Asian Vogue | 
photos by John Delfin

Ciao!
'Til next time. :)


Much love,
Mela

P.S. This is also an entry to IFB Project #107: Printed Matters

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Flower Child

So my dad finally decided to buy new lens for our DSLR. Yipee.

You can only imagine me jumping around with giddiness over the turn out of these photos, set after set. 

It's been long since I got outfit photos as bright and clear as these. Happiness! :3

I've been planning to make a DIY flower crown for the longest time.

And as they always happen, my first DIY attempts usually end up funny.

Very, very funny. It's really okay to laugh.

Say hello, Mother Nature! 

 | floral headdress: DIY | Prada-esque sunnies: c/o Ryan Hinayhinay | vintage dress from mom | 
JC Lita-inspired booties: Asian Vogue | 

Hype this on Lookbook.nu here and on Chictopia here!

Meet the sweetiepie behind my ootd photos. :)

Have an awesome weekend y'all!

Much love,

Mela

P.S. This is also an entry to IFB Project #103 : Vintage Vixens

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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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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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Coachella Lovin'

Spot the DIY. Two scarves braided to form a headband!

| DIY headband | top: Forever21 | bag: Tommy Hilfiger | boots: Asian Vogue | arm candies: Superb Finds | photos by: Ralph Delfin |

Hype this on LOOKBOOK.nu!

This probably is one of the most vibrant posts I've had. It's a delight to spend the long weekend here at home despite the gazillion things waiting to be accomplished during the last few days of this school year. Home-cooked food and family are all I really need to bring back all the energy, motivation and inspiration that's been draining out of me these passed days.

I wore this outfit during our visit earlier at my grandma's hometown. I basically have no outfit issues with that lest of course we pass by the mall to buy her pasalubong. I wish I wore slippers instead but obviously, the Manhattan--errr, Roxas City Onceovers came a bit earlier than that realization. x_x

All the elements in this outfit revolved around my new JC Lita-inspired booties: mint, mint, mint, and mint. I didn't plan to be Coachella-ish but my DIY-necklace was the perfect pop of color that I needed. Hence, the discovery of it's multi-functionalism (might as well use it as a belt soon).

What do you think of this outfit?

Thanks again, Manang Paola for the stuff that you sent! Love, love this top!

Aaaand CONGRATULATIONS to the 2013 graduates.

Yipee, summer is just around the corner! XD

Much love,

Mela

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Office Girl Series: Rank-and-File

Hel-lo people! How's everything going?

We've finally reached the end of this blog series on officewear ideas. And since it's been a while after I posted the last installment, here's a quick recap of Parts One to Three:

Office Girl Series: The Black Skirt

Office Girl Series: Lunch Break

Office Girl Series: Like A Boss

"Rank-and-file" has really nothing to do with the outfits below as these pieces are template officewear that can be worn by any office girl on any ordinary office day. What inspired me, though, is the lead male character in Disney's Animated Short Film, Paperman. In case you haven't stumbled upon this wonderful 7-minute video yet, please do watch it below. It tells so much in just a short amount of time.

Hype this on LOOKBOOK.nu!

 | pink polka dots top, mustard pencil skirt, off white button-down, floral trousers: It's Vintage Darling | salmon tribal wedges: Asian Vogue | black colorblock heels: So! Fab | accessories: c/o Em Trava | HMUA and Styling: Em Trava and Russel Mendez | photography: Russel Mendez |

Disney will never lose its magic. Never ever.

I don't know if you figured this out about me yet, but I'm a completely, hopeless romantic. Well, more like "hope-filled romantic". I love all things cheesy, corny, mushy, and gushy. It melts my heart and makes me the happiest person alive. This video just did that for me. :)

 You know, I've been kind of down in the dumps recently about various things. But it's the small and sweet reminders such as this that move me to choose happiness. Happiness. Always. Because I just know that God has a beautifully sculpted plan for me. I don't even have to try to change or fight or argue with it anymore. I just have to let go, open my arms, and let the paper airplanes do wonders and lead the way.


Much love,
Mela

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Office Girl Series: Like A Boss

Officewear isn't just about looking chic and elegant. It's also about confidence and being always on-the-go. Power dressing can be applied to whatever workplace one belongs to. It exudes a message that "I'm a tough chic. Don't mess with me. I know what I'm doing because I always aim and get the best results." It's not entirely overconfidence or insensitive pride, it's showing the people around that you also deserve some respect--that you are in control of the circumstances that relate to whatever your position is. 

Grace (and fabulosity) under pressure? YES. 

| paisley top, cream blouse, and skirt: It's Vintage Darling | sunnies: SM Accessories | leopard boots: AsianVogue |purse, belt, accessories, orange boots: c/o Em Trava | HMUA&Styling: Em Trava and Rusell Mendez | photography: Rusell Mendez |

Hype this look on Lookbook.nu!

Now, which of the two outfits above made me look more of a boss?

Check out my first two entries on the Office Girl Series: 

The Black Skirt

Lunch Break

Much love,

Mela

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Rip It!

Hello, everyone!

This is just a quick post before I finally devote my time to studying. One of my 2013 Blog Resolutions is to re-vamp my style. All these years, I have been so much fond of colors. But despite the youthfulness and energy that they exude, the thrill of wearing them is slowly waning. I don't ever want that to happen because colorful is ME. So to make myself miss colors a little, I will temporarily shift to basics--black, white and nude--on my upcoming posts. 

Thank goodness, Ms. Stephanie of GIFI Clothing sent over closet must-haves that somehow, I am guilty of not having--white tops. And they aren't just ordinary white tops, they have surprise rips here and there! I am so excited to style and show you the others. :D Clearly, I am not a T-shirt person but this is what a new year is all about, right? New finds and new adventures!

 | top: GIFI Clothing | shorts: DIY | wedges: Asian Vogue | SM Accessories belt used as handcuff | photos by Ralph Delfin |

Hype this on LOOKBOOK.nu.

Aside from re-vamping my style, I also have updating my blog header and layout on the list. Notice the larger photos! Spent the whole afternoon "designing" a new header but I believe it's just not good enough. :( Someone help me, please? My sidebar widgets are next. But yes, one weekend at a time!

How did your week go?


Much love,
Mela

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