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

Follow me:

| TWITTER | LOOKBOOK | INSTAGRAM | CHICTOPIA |

Tribal Pride

How do you define 'beauty'?

For the Ata community in Guimaras, Maruyog doesn't just mean beautiful. It signifies creativity and intricate, hard work. It is a representation of an age-old heritage, of sacred traditions and beliefs. It is an attempt to resurrect a culture that has long been forgotten by the urban society. It is innovation. It is hope for better tomorrows. All these are boxed in a tiny coconut shell container called Maruyog Charms.

Maruyog Charms are no ordinary bracelets or bangles. They are traditional amulets designed to blend in the sophistication of the modern world. Who would have thought that I'm wearing anting-antings in the photos below? These charms are so intricately handmade by the women and youth of the Ata community that it takes one person roughly an hour to finish one charm, and three(3) hours for one set (3 bracelets and a pair of earrings) to be done.

At close-up view, Maruyog Charms are consist of dried roots from special plants like Salindugok and Amigos which are believed to bring abundance, health and love to the person who wears it; special stones crushed into tiny pieces called Diamante Negra, provide protection from psychic attacks and can strengthen the aura; and a special coconut oil known as Lana that is believed to drain negative energy, provide serenity, and heal certain health conditions. The colored streaks represent colors of energy psychic centers, also known as Chakras.

These may all sound very superstitious but these are more than just amulets/accessories. Wearing these charms celebrate not only the stories of the women who handmade such spectacles, but also our own country's rich culture. Remembering our roots, the Philippines was first inhabited by our first ancestors, the Atas themselves. Perhaps it's just time to give back the recognition that they deserve. :)

Currently, the Team Maruyog, a non-government organization that facilitates the production of Maruyog Charms, is on its way to improving the quality and aesthetic value of the charms; with plans of incorporating them into bag and clothing design to further provide livelihood opportunities for the Ata community.

These charms are sold at the Team's online store, partner boutiques, trade fares or expos, and specialty stores.

Let us help the Ata community build better lives. Let us empower them to restore the cultural pride that has slowly vanished through the years. 

Get your own Maruyog Charms now! :)

For orders, refer to Maruyog Charms' Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Maruyog-Charms/422990001071109?fref=ts

These accessories aren't limited to bohemian-inspired outfits! Click this link for another styling idea: http://wearismela.blogspot.com/2012/09/conspiracy-theory.html

ce

top: Mizar Clothing | skirt and purse: vintage from Mom | shoes:  AsianVogue Shop | Accessories: Maruyog Charms | photos by Jo Andrew Torlao

Did you join this giveaway: WWW Thank You Treat? Well, good luck! The two (2) winners will be drawn tomorrow. If you haven't, don't worry! Since it's my birthday month, I am cooking another surprise treat for you. :D

Much love,
Mela

Barriers

(shirt and bag: Gap, skirt: Bubbles, necklace: Margarita Fashion House)

Photos by April Rose Garcia

What is a blogger without a DSLR?

Because my brother is my only photographer and the only DSLR I have is a family camera which is currently in my hometown, I've already foreseen the bitter possibility of not being able to post outfit photos until the semestral break. Nevertheless, no matter how much I rationalize and rant about how busy medical school is, I still have this silent plea in my heart that somehow, someone kind out there will help me pursue what makes me happy (even just on weekends).

Two weeks ago, I received an email from someone I've never really met yet. I stalked her profile and was thrilled to see a cute and pretty girly girl with a queer Facebook alias. She's a photography student in the same university as mine. Small world, ay? We met up last Saturday for a few minutes for my outfit photos and you can only imagine how these photos were taken by an equally fashionable girl in 3-inched wedges! I had so much fun with our mini-chitchats and I'm really wishing that we'd meet up again for my next weekend outfit, haha! Thank God for sending angels like April. :D 

I couldn't talk much right now because I'm blogging from an internet cafe and it's almost curfew time. :( My laptop broke down just this morning and I guess this is another predicament that I have to conquer. But then, for the love of blogging, I will always find a way. Whatever it takes. :D

Much love,

Mela

P.S. April's sister owns Sugar Plum, an all-around photostudio that specializes in photographing babies and toddlers! Visit their page on Facebook for more details. CLICK HERE!

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

Call It Spring

Florals will never go out of style. They can do wonders and transform any outfit into something girly. 

I tried to divert from my usual colorful mix this Sunday. I resisted the urge of snatching that pastel yellow top from my closet and opted for something more minimalist and classy -- a black turtleneck and accessories with peach accents to match my shoes. I didn't want to look too made up for church so as to not steal that much attention, hence, I just curled my hair early this afternoon when we went out for snacks. :)

Whew, time flies.

I am barely two days away from Day One of my sophomore year. o.O 

Looking back at my summer vacay, with all the ups and downs and those plans that never took place, I am still very happy and grateful for all the opportunities that God showered me. I met the most number of people and made the most number of friends from different parts of the country in just two months. :) Thank You, Lord! And thank you everyone! This truly is a summer to remember. :D

How was your summer vacay?

Good vibes for S.Y. 2012-2013 to all the students!

Much <3,

Mela

P.S. I regret frowning at most of the photos. :/ If only we can re-shoot. Hehe

Something Linear

Hello everyone! I'm back from the week-long hiatus with tons of backlog posts. :D

The past two weeks has been a whirlwind of events and I'm very thankful that I emerged victorious and although it may sound a bit sappy but yeah, I am a better and a happier person right now. God is continually making wonders in my life. I couldn't believe how I managed to facilitate three Sons and Daughters Encounter (SADE) Weekends and two Team Members Training (also for SADE), in both Manila and Roxas, this summer. :)

My summer bucketlist is almost empty, yayyy! And there's no better way to reward myself than Bloggers United 3! The event was packed with fashion forward personas, fashion fangirls, and even celebs. Since this is a free country, I decided to be a fashion-forward fangirl :3 HAHA. 

Here's what I wore:

I initially planned to wear a mullet skirt and a tassled top, both bright and glittery, but ended up wrapped with stripes. I loved how these multi-colored diagonals worked well to create a unified look. Beige to bronze accessories purposely blended in with my outfit. To accentuate my waist and to break the linear monotony, I wore a thick, red belt with matching red shoes. 

The weather also did its trick to cooperate.:)  It was drizzling all day, hence, I didn't get sweaty being so covered!

After taking these outfit posts, Paul from Philippine Street Fashion approached me to ask if he could take my photo. OMG OMG OMGGGGG. He took a couple of shots, asked for my name and gave me his card! The photos will be featured on their website soon :) 

Bjorn Bedayo ---the cutest male blogger I know-- also found my outfit cute. HAHA kilig kilig! 

Enough of these for now, I don't want to spoil my next posts. Photos from the actual BU event with our favorite metro bloggers up next! :D

Much <3,
Mela


P.S. The winner of my DreamBig Shop Giveaway will be drawn tonight. Thank you and good luck to all who participated. :)

Wall Post

 

Photos by: Ralph Delfin

I couldn't help but feel giddy whenever I post outfit posts like these.:D This is something that I REALLY wore today. You see, I love playing dress-up. If you've looked into my previous posts, especially last year's, they were a bit costume-y. What I used to post here were not really wearable in real, day-to-day small town  life. Like, who would go grocery-shopping wearing those. Hehe. Nevertheless, I'm happy that as I grow a year older with personal style blogging, I'm continually getting closer to fathoming the perfect balance between being tamed and courageous at the same time. :)

Today, I braved the streets, the awkward glares of passersby, and the thought of dried spit on the sidewalk where I sat (grossss), for the love of self-expression and blogging. O.o

I wore this glittery asymmetric skirt as a tunic. After wearing heels for days, I sported boots for more edge and denim shorts to make my look more casual. 

Of course, colorful accessories completed my outfit because I cannot not be colorful. ;)

 What brave act have you done today?

I'd love to here from you!

Much <3,

Mela

Dab Some Paint

Say hello to boho shoes and my brother's DIY shirt! Who would have thought that there are gems inside my brother's closet? Seriously, after today, his closet will be raided more often. Hi, Ralph! I hope this counts as asking for consent. ;D

I can't believe I actually went out of the house wearing these! Was aiming for a punked-up summer look but I ended up looking like a lost country club singer/band member. I'm so thankful I forgot to wear sunnies because that would be like Freddie Aguilar Meets Bruno Mars. :|

Nonetheless, I love how everything turned out. Finally, justice has prevailed for these leather jeans (unlike the one the posted two months ago, click here). :(

Photos By: Ralph Delfin

May of last year, I wrote about Budding Things---features on people who, like buds, have started small, and are beginning to blossom into the best wonders that they can be. The world needs to know that behind the spotlight and the glitz and the glamour, such people also exist. This month, I will again add three persons on my Budding Things List. :)

Here's what I came up last year -----> Budding Things 2011. 

Are you a Budding Thing? Or do you know of someone who can be hailed as one?

Let me know! And I'll write a feature on that, too.

Much <3,

Mela