Careful of those Heels

Lately, it is becoming harder and harder to find decently-heeled shoes at the mall. Usually, what you are offered are elevator shoes where you will be literally required to stand and walk on tiptoe while wearing the pair.

Fashionistas can say all they want to justify the trend but the fact remains that it is unnatural for humans to walk like that, and very unhealthy for the body overall. Which is why, I actually feel for Lady Gaga who constantly trips because of those signature kicks.

To avoid dealing with  recovery from ankle surgery, two inches should be one's limit for shoes they have to wear all day, especially if they will be doing much standing and walking. Some exchange kitten heels for wider heels while others always go for wedges. It may require an inordinate amount of time and patience to find shoes that won't kill your feet (so wear flats when going shopping) but it is an investment in your health.

Please remember, when your bones aren't properly aligned, you are more prone to suffer from headaches as well as gastric problems. And a woman in pain is seldom a pleasant one.

Mommy Mundo Christmas Bazaar 2012

As if we really need more reasons to shop and empty our pockets out... but anyway...

Mommy Mundo is holding its Christmas Bazaar at the Rockwell Tent this coming weekend, Nov 24-25, 2012.

It may not be the place to look for marshall haze 40 guitar for your little achiever, but there are enough wooden toys from WonderWorld Toys, or really pretty dresses by Dizzy Dress, and even prettier bows from Celestina & Co.

Looking for cheaper breast pumps? Babymama is the booth to visit.

What about pregnancy and maternity clothes that are fab and comfy? Then, proceed to Mama.Baby.Love's booth and look through slings and cloth diapers while you're at it.

Download and print this map and have the vendors sign it when you visit their booths. When you complete at least 20 signatures, just submit the form at the exit, and get a chance to win wonderful prizes (Baby 1st Stroller, Mommy Matters nursingwear, Havaianas flipflops, and more:) at the Mommy Mundo Bazaar raffle draw!

For a list of exhibitors and other things one can expect at the expo, click here.

St. James the Great Bazaar 2012

I have actually never been, but I have heard of great finds and even greater food to be had at the St. James the Great Bazaar. What's more, my SIL has been selling clothes and food there for several years now.

The biggest bazaar for people living in the South will be held at the Cuenca Community Center and St. James Parking Lot this November 30, December 1 and 2... from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Don't be surprised if you see a lot of imported goods (you might find spenco shoes or Korean magic scarves as well as fab boots)  because sellers in this bazaar really source out their wares the entire year.

My SIL will be selling smocked dresses for little girls.

Expect wares from all over the country too, as well as delicacies. Bring fans and your own water though (unless you want to cease shopping just to buy water) if you're coming during the day, because the crowd will be merciless in their hunt for great finds and good bargains. Bring cash (of course) and eco bags too, so that you don't have to worry about having to carry things around.

If you can, collude with friends and family living in the area to just drop you off there and pick you up... or at least let you park your car in their garage.

Enjoy Christmas shopping and know that the proceeds of this event all go to the Church.

Start Online Shopping for Black Friday, Cyber Monday Steals

Planning to buy your man a coveted set of sports earbuds for his birthday? A citizen watch perhaps for your anniversary? Thanksgiving may still be over three weeks away but it just may be worth your while to start scouring the net for good finds and listing them somewhere. If these are offered on discounted rates come Black Friday and Cyber Monday, then, you can just keep on 'adding to cart' and 'checking out' with nary a worry over product review and whether you're getting a great bargain or not.

Hopefully, having a list of wants would also give you time to manage your finances, free up some credit and/or start selling some items online yourself.

Robinsons Warehouse Sale 2012

Looking for  tv stands with mounts? What about little kitchen helpers to make for better food presentation? Christmas gifts to beloved kids perhaps? Fabulous outfits? DIY kits for home decorating?

Or just a reason to shop for any bargain?

Well then... the Robinsons Warehouse Sale 2012 event poster is already making the rounds. Here's what they say that you can expect:

Get up to 70% off on these participating brands: Toys "R" Us, Topshop, Topman, Dorothy Perkins, Warehouse, Ben Sherman, Robinsons Appliances, Robinsons Department Store, Handyman, True Value, Saizen, Howards and Mini Stop! Plus more exciting deals at the Robinsons Metrobank Warehouse Sale 2012!

 Simply present your Robinsons Cebu Pacific MasterCard, GO! MasterCard or any Metrobank credit card to enter and enjoy the big discounts and deals!

Now, I know those days aren't pay days yet for most people but I guess that's where emergency cash and wise use of credit cards can help you purchase necessities (and maybe a few nice-to-have's) at cheaper the cost.

I am inclined to go just to see how much gets slashed on wooden toys at Toys "r" Us :)

Dainty Ashley Hair Trinkets

If you're looking for quality hair trinkets for your baby fashionistas, or just really huge flowers on headbands or blooms on bare feet (just some ballet birthday ideas for you), then Dainty Ashley is the shop you are looking for.

Making hair/head decorations for little girls as a business is the result of blessing a crafty, creative momma with a baby girl. What else is she to do, right?

I also love it that Mai, the creative genius behind Dainty Ashley, has named her designs after daughters of friends. I keep kidding her that she's the bane of moms of daughters because they wouldn't be able to resist her wares.

Check out her upcoming collections!

 

The Bina Wrap: Multiway Fashion Staple

I will admit to the fact that I am a fan of multiway clothes. When you have something that converts into different styles, then you ca accessorize at will and the money you spent on it will be well invested because it's something that won't grow old... or stale.

So, when I saw the Bina on Youtube, I just really fell in love.

One thing I loved about it is that it's not like those multiway dresses that promise you so many styles but you end up just using it for one or two, because there are issues about the knots and the special bra/chest support you'd require.

The Bina wrap is an accessory, mostly, and was designed to just really spice up your wardobe (but you can wear it as a top). I do not have great pics of myself wearing it (because I've been using it as nursing cover with my baby when we go out) but here's a few thathopefully gives you an idea of its versatility:


worn as poncho


makes for a really long, un-styled scarf (tying it in a knot around my neck isn't for this summer trip)


haha.. here I did the back wrap wrong, but I think it still looked okay (the Bina's just too crumpled here though because my son was wrapped in it just before the shoot)


in the turtleneck style, only I didn't close the snaps


If there's something that convertible, multiway clothes tell us... it's that fashion clothes need never be thrown away. They also need not serve just one purpose or give you just one look.

I love my Bina and want more in other colors. Of course, the price ($42.50) makes me think twice about buying more but I might just order another one come Black Friday sale. Meanwhile, just check out their website at binabrianca.com for tutorials on how-to as well as link to their videos. Supposedly, there are 12 ways to use it so that's about $3.54 per style :)  At least, the Bina wrap won't take up much space.

Pirose, Fashion and Nursing Scarf

Used for fashion, the Pirose scarf manufactured by Reno Rose allows for at least 13 looks, from a head scarf, neck scarf (multiple ways!), beach/pool poncho/coverup and something to pin corsages to in really formal occasions.

Used by moms, it can also serve as a nursing cover or a stroller cover for your baby.

I have been in love with the Pirose ever since I saw it on the net but I couldn't justify the price. I have also initiated contact with the manufacturer for possible exclusive distribution here, but I also have doubts as to my capacity as seller.

Anyway, good thing I found an Ebay seller selling it for like half-price so I was able to treat my sister and myself to one. Unfortunately, I ordered the smaller size and it feels a little off. I should have trusted my judgment that Reno was a petite ballerina and I'm not. Plus, I wanted to use it as breastfeeding cover.

That boo-boo aside, I still loved it when I wore it for the first time. My sis is also rocking hers... so I might just order more.

me, breastfeeding in the Mayo

my sis in the Juli (she's a lot thinner than I am but stands 5'8" or so)

During my e-mail exchange with the manufacturer, he suggested to start with the smaller size because he's heard feedback that it's harder to manage the excess fabric of the larger sizes. But if you're using it for nursing and you're around my height (5'4"), I suggest to really go for the larger size (size M or L in the fashion sizes, size 2 in the motherhood sizes).

It's also great to just tie on your bag and really easy to use to accessorize. Will post more pics when I use it in other ways :)

For more info and to see other designs available, just log onto renorose.com :)  The site also has a video tutorial.



Maid's Uniform

If you're like me who is wondering what to make your helper wear so that they'd look decent when they go out with you in public (because nannies and cleavage don't mix!) but don't want them wearing medical scrubs eventhough that's the trend now (even for caregivers, masseusse, etc), then just really have some maid's uniform made... or buy one in your local grocery.

Confused about how it looks like? No, definitely not the black French maid smock with the white apron. I firmly believe that domestic chores are easier done when a person is wearing pants. So, think of glorified pajamas instead... uniforms are made from the same fabric as scrubs but are a pant and polo set (usually, the collar and panels are piped, and no cartoon characters!). Maybe you can also invest in a set of polo shirts or just buy fabric in bulk and have them made into a comfortable blouse/top. Then, insist that your helper wear their uniform, especially if they are nannies tagging along with you. Not only is it easier for you to spot them, they will also need not worry anymore on what to wear.

SuperSale Bazaar Ongoing at WTC

The first day of the SuperSale Bazaar at the World Trade Center was a success and sellers are promising bigger discounts and new stocks for tomorrow and Sunday.

There are plenty of fashion finds, from shoes to bags to other accessories and imported clothes but there are also novelty items perfect for gift giving. You are even sure to find some pieces of rustic bedroom furniture to spice up your abode.

Leave the kids at home so you can better brave the crowds. Dress comfortably, make sure you have enough cash and credit and come with a list of of people you need to buy gifts for.

Entrance to the bazaar costs P100 each, to benefit World Vision. If you want discounted tickets though, just print this flyer to get 20% off.

Play Pilipinas Workshop Ensogo Deal

Interested parents, educators and school personnel have only one more day left to purchase the Play Pilipinas Workshop Ensogo Deal which will allow any buyer to attend one of the mini workshops at half price. From P1,000, it is now only P500 inclusive of entrance to the play festival.

Just to remind parents as well, there will be six playground installations at the Play Festival so bringing your child is a must. At least, this is one expo wherein you don't have to worry about them disturbing the Banner stand onstage or other displays because they're sure to get busy with the installations. Meanwhile, you can also shop to your heart's content without worrying if they're getting bored.

See you there!

Guess and Mossimo Sale at Speciabilities

Speciabilities Development Center is hosting a Guess and Mossimo Sale again this year, with other wonderful brands like Vans, Chevignon, American Rag, Avirex and Joejeans. The sale is on October 14 and 15 (Friday and Saturday) from 10 am to 6 pm.

For first-timers to have an idea, shirts that are regularly priced P850-P1,000 in the the stores can be purchased for P300 - P350 (adults). For kids, items that usually cost P650-P800 can be purchased here for only P250 - P350.

Feedback and tips from those who have gone to this particular sale before include:
1) Bring someone with you to fall in line as you rummage around.
2) It could be hot so bring fan, water, towel and DO NOT BRING KIDS ALONG.
3) Some bring eco bags where they put all the things that catch their fancy, then fall in line, and audit their loot while in line.
4) Wear comfy clothes.
5) Bring cash. You cannot use credit cards here.
6) Brand paper bags will be given so this is a good opportunity to buy items for gift-giving.

For more information and directions to the school:
Speciabilities Development Center
11 Binamaka St.
Manresa, Quezon City
Tel: 361-9178 and 364-3460
www.speciabilities.com (visit the website for details on how to get to
the school, just click on the tab 'contact us')

Convertible Clothes for this Party Season

The last three months of the year is when there are more births (so, more birthday parties), more weddings (especially around December), more events (Halloween, Thanksgiving) and parties (Christmas parties and reunions).

What to wear to each one, then, without breaking your budget and going into debt? After all, heaven forbid that you wear the same outfit to each party. You may not upload your pictures on FB but your friends might still tag you, and your other friends will notice that you seem to be wearing the same outfit in each one.

One really good answer to this fashion issue is to invest in convertible clothes (also referred to as infinity dresses or multiway tops). Eden's Infinitude is a good example of something you can use to accessorize basic pieces with to achieve different looks. ForMe also has a multiway top. You may also look into owning a Bina scarf, a Pirose scarf or some Vanessa Knox dresses.

Even hearty eaters can just shop for a cheap plus size cocktail dress and embellish it with different scarves or multiway shawls for different occasions. You can employ color blocking strategies with your accessories and also repurpose old stuff that you may have. Turn old sweaters into scarves and old shirts into cute jumpers. Youtube is replete with tutorials and there are a lot of crafty bloggers who can give you step-by-step instructions on how to make a multiway dress.

Feel free to also borrow accessories to spice up your wardrobe with.

So, don't be disheartened with the coming party season. Embrace it and look fabulous till the end of time (because convertible clothes cannot really go out of fashion!).

Play Pilipinas - The First Ever Play Festival in the Country

Advocating play in this time of structured socialization in the young, handy electronics and city living, Play Pilipinas has combined forces with the international community to bring to Filipinos the first ever Play Festival to be held in the country.

Happening at the SMX Convention Center (Mall of Asia, Roxas Boulevard, Manila) on October 21-23, 2011, the festival will be composed of three parts:

1) FORUM
~ For P10,500, educators, school owners, play advocates and homeschoolers can attend the 3-day conference and learn from esteemed local (e.g. Dr. Honey Carandang, Dr. Maria Teresa Gustilo-Villasor, etc) and international (Marcus Veerman, Anita Bundy, etc) speakers who are experts in the different aspects involving and affecting play. The conference fee includes a DVD on children's play, an exclusive magazine, the conference kit and snacks.

~ For P1,000, mini-workshops are available to educators and intentional parents who want to acquire certain skills or knowledge on various aspects of play. Examples of topics to be covered are Keeping Playtime Safe (by Toni Tiu of wifelysteps.com), Ideas for Outdoor Play and Integrating Play in the Curriculum.

Play Pilipinas Registration for the conference/mini workshops will CLOSE on 30 September 2011. Please send your forms to reserve a slot - be it for the forum or workshops to playnow@playpilipinas.org or fax via 02-634 0416.

2) FAIR
What is a fair without shopping? And what things will facilitate active play in our young? Well, here's what Play Pilipinas will have enticing you at the festival:
• TOY FAIR: A toy fair with over 50 booths, each featuring the latest tools and toys for active play. Organized by age bracket.

• BOOK AND MAGAZINE FAIR: A veritable showcase of the latest and best titles covering play and child development.

• CHILDREN'S NUTRITION FAIR: A taste of the kind of food that makes for fun, delicious and healthy eating for kids.

• CHILDREN'S FASHION FAIR: An exhibition of outfits fit for active play and other children's activities.

• SCHOOL FAIR: A venue for schools or institutions to showcase their programs and the ways they integrate play into their curriculum/activities.

• WORLD TOYS EXHIBIT: An exhibition showcasing toys and games from around the world.

3) WINNING PLAYGROUND DESIGNS FOR YOUNG ONES
~ Play Pilipinas held a playground design challenge that invited everyone from the country to "design creative and inspiring playground structures and spaces that will give a sense of place, wonder and fun to entice children, teens and adults to play outdoors." The top five finalists will have their designs installed in the SMX premises for fair guests to enjoy.

~ Another installation that should get fair guests interested is the playground design chosen by President Obama for his daughters (so yes, fair guests will have 6 playgrounds to frolic in).

Entrance to the Play Festival is P100 each, regardless of age. This entitles you to 2 and 3 and some of 1 (Kitchen Playtime talks at Workshop Room Hall #4, for example).

All proceeds will benefit Project Brave Kids, an organization helping children with cancer, and their families. (so yeah, P100 won't be too much to ask... think 6 playgrounds!)

For more information or to download forms, just check out their website:
http://www.playpilipinas.org

For updates about the event, LIKE their Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/playpilipinas

See you all there. Let's help a cause, advocate play and tire our kiddos out in one go.

Here is the Play festival brochure:


click on the photo for brochure

Kids-Agogo: The Groupon Site for Moms

Kids-Agogo is not a groupon site where you can land great la flor dominicana cigars at a fraction of their original price because it is solely for all things wonderful and beneficial for your kids. Right now, the live deals are for clothes, dental checkups and Musikgarten lessons. I am pretty sure a lot of vendors that sell in bazaars like Expo Mum will soon be offering their wares and services at discounted rates here.

So, subscribe now to their mailing list and register for an account. If you don't need it, you need not pay for it. But if it's a deal you want, no sense in also paying full price if you can get it at half, right?

Eden Maternity and Nursing Wear - Showroom Launch

Enjoy discounts, showroom exclusives and Eden Maternity and Nursing Wear's second collection if you go to their showrrom today and tomorrow. :)





Call for an appointment (846-5929) and go between 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm (Wednesday and Thursday). The showroom will then be opened to the public starting Friday, every day, from 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM.

What can you expect?

What Bianca is wearing is the Glamouflage Nursing cover (in silk and bamboo) that you can use as a poncho, one shoulder top, shrug and scarf. I was told there will also be a few dressy dresses, a maxi dress, a pocket tube dress and wrap dress. There will also be some girly tops and an active line: reversible pants and ribbed cotton tanks with built-in bra. There will also be seamless transition tubes and sexy shorts.

Now... are you as excited as I am? :)

They will be posting pictures next week!

Make Believe Productions: Classes on Fashion, Storytelling, Theater and Many More

One of the booths that appealed to us at the Children's Workshop Expo 2011 last Sunday was the Make Believe Productions booth. There was a shadow theater going on and they were offering face painting so they were really drawing kids and parents to their booth.

Make Believe Productions is offering classes on acting and directing, animation, dance, shadow theater, fashion arts and crafts and storytelling through digital photography.

They offer these classes in the following areas:
•Alabang, Muntinlupa City
•Bonifacio Global City, Taguig
•Ortigas Center
•Parañaque City
•Pasay City
•Quezon City

For more info, just contact:

Marika Mercado | Marketing Officer
Make Believe Productions
Parties | Events | Workshops
Unit L3 Patricia Building, 1050 EDSA, Magallanes Village
Makati City, 1232, Metro Manila, Philippines
Telefax: (632) 729.5899 || www.makebelieve.com.ph
marika.mercado@makebelieve.com.ph

Brandsfever Discounted Goods

Brandsfever is like a groupon site too where you can get accessories, clothes, even home decor at discounted prices. And we're talking branded stuff that one would not normally buy because of the cost and they're really just nice to have.

One of the things on sale there are Mothers en Vogue nursing and maternity clothes. These average P3,000 normally but can be grabbed from their site for P2,000 and less. So, what are you waiting for? Go to http://www.brandsfever.ph and register, then shop to your heart's delight!!!

Scarecrow Festival in Manila

In celebration of the National Trade Fair's 20th year, the Cagayan Valley Region is holding a Scarecrow Festival in Manila at SMX Convention Center this March 17-20, 2011. Aside from the scarecrows in elaborate costumes, Cagayan Valley will also be exhibiting their culture though food and crafts.

Expect a lot of hats, local delicacies and even furniture.

There will be a grand scarecrow parade, dances, regional crafts demo and also a cooking demo by Cook magazine. The National Trade Fair will also offer the following free seminars/workshops to be held at Seminar Room 1 & 2 from March 18-20 March 2011:

•Design and Market Trends
•Demonstration on Perfume Making
•Globalization Trend: How does it affect the Industry and Leveling up the Supply Chain
•Financing and Lending Programs by SMEs
•Putting your Business Online
•Demonstration on Fashion Accessory Making
•Recycling for Business
•Business Options


For more details, contact CITEM's Special Projects Division at (02) 831-2336 or e-mail sprojects@citem.com.ph.

Cheap Medical Uniforms

Many people in the country think that cheap medical uniforms can only be found in Divisoria because everything is supposedly sold there. Possibly, there are sellers of healthcare uniforms there but the scrubs I always see being sold there are the printed ones usually worn by nannies, not nurses.

If you're looking for hospital scrubs, then it's Bangbang (in Sta. Cruz) where you should go. It's really the area where medical uniforms are sold along with all those other medical equipment (from nebulizers to hospital beds and wheelchairs). They come in many colors too and cost around P300 a pair (top and pants).