My Style Profile on Preview

It was a thrill to be asked by Tina Carillo of Preview Magazine to be part of their December 2014/January 2015 issue. Yup, that same issue with the radiant December bride, Marianne Rivera, on the cover. Plus, here's a FUN FACT: Berry had a cameo in the Style Profile too!

Of course, because Berry & I were so excited for this to come out, Dada was able to buy early. But my family had trouble finding this issue as most stores are already sold out. I hope you can still get a copy before January ends. 

For a digital copy of Preview, you may still download the December 2014/January 2015 issue via buqo on your iPad or iPhone!

How to Dress Your Bump: Smart Parenting December 2014

Mia Fausto Cruz and Sche Perez of Smart Parenting asked me for some pregnancy style tips on how to dress a baby bump over the holidays, and while the holidays have passed, and we are now onto the latest thing, the arrival of Pope Francis over this long weekend, thought I'd still share this with you.

These are timeless looks that I think, any woman, pregnant or not, can refer to when you are stumped on what to wear.

You may still download the December 2014 issue via buqo on your iPad or iPhone!

Preview, June 2012

Did you get the current issue of Preview na? It's major - it's the 17th Anniversary issue!  My fellow Radar alumna Kissa Castaneda, who is Lifestyle Editor for the magazine, asked me to write a story on navigators for the TechTalk section. My first ever article for Preview. Thought I'd share this with you :)

The June 2012 issue of Preview is available now at magazine stands all over! ;)

Smart Parenting, June 2012

To my family, friends and dear readers! Please buy the June 2012 issue of Smart Parenting! Why? Heehee, because, tadaa! 

Xavi and I are in the issue. We were interviewed Rachel Perez (thanks Sche!) for The Pregnancy Chronicles, where I got to share my thoughts and experiences during this pregnancy :) Of course, I also got to share my preggy must-haves. Mostly maarte mommy stuff, but also something that will do good for Xavi - i.e. the Belly Buds, to teach him music appreciation early.

One thing I failed to share here, that I can't do without these days? Tums, tu- tums, tums, tums! Helps me deal with heartburn, especially these days when Xavi is so big na, it feels like I have no space in my tummy for food to go down and digest. Sigh.

Ay! I have another kwento! I wrote a feature for Preview Magazine, for TechTalk! So please check out the June 2012 issue of Preview too. Yes the latest one with five gorgeous girls on the cover. Sabi nga nila, if you can't beat them, join them (as a writer though, hehehe!) Echoz!

BC Magazine October 2011

A huge "Thank You!" to Job Ambrosio, Kariz & Tom Favis, Valerie Del Castillo and Dee Nermal for including me in the October 2011 issue of BC Magazine Philippines' feature on "Moms Online", where I got to share my life as a wife/mom/lifestyle blogger. And of course, here's a big wet kiss to Mr. Dychiao, for taking my photo above, teehee! Mwah!

Family and friends, and dear readers, hope you can check it out and buy an issue. This month is chockfull of great reads! Its out on newstands na!

Mischmashed!

Head on over to A Mischmashed Life to read Mikka's feature on moi! I shared some style tips too, since I've been dubbed the Stylish Mama for August. Who knew I'd be a calendar girl for style, teehee!

Thanks Mikka!

MFO Shoe Series: Mariel Chua, New York

If you read Seventeen and Cosmopolitan Philippines, then you know their former beauty editor Mariel Chua.  You probably graduated from Seventeen to Cosmo reading her beauty reviews and taking note of her beauty picks. In 2007, she packed up her bags to move to New York. After editing, copywriting & marketing stints at  J.Crew, Avon and Hearst Publishing, and a gig at a New York resto, as most transplanted twentysomethings are wont to do, she has gone back to editing & writing. This time, for the online publications of Starwood Hotels & Resorts and Studio One Networks (Mariel actually go me to write at Studio One's The Style Glossy where I contribute articles whenever she assigns a topic to me, heehee).

Funnily, we met a month before we left for Singapore, at our despedida party! But Mariel and I hit it off so well, that we've stayed in touch despite the distance. And of course, there's always her blog NY Minute Now which I read even before we met, and continue to read, so I can keep up with what she and our friends Happy and Kat are up to.

I've asked Mariel (along with other friends in New York, whom you will all meet here soon) to share their shoe closets and bare their soles. Because I  know that you will find it interesting to see how real New Yorkers live - they usually walk a lot, and reside in tiny apartments. Which means, Sex & The City and The Devil Wears Prada? Fairy Tales, Baby! Unless you are a Park Avenue Princess, I guess. 

Not to say we won't be! Fairy tales do come true! Heehee!

About Mariel's closet:

My "shoe closet" is also my coat closet, storage closet, everything-else-closet, as many people living in New York (with roommates) can relate to. My clothes are in an 'open closet'—a simple rolling rack I've placed on one side of my room—and Sterilite drawers next to it. Off-season items are stored in a large pink plastic crate, on top of which are my speakers and snacks! I've actually just spring-cleaned the clothes and haven't gotten around to the shoes, so you'll still see winter boots when you open the closet (see photos).

How many pairs of shoes do you own?

Around 30, give or take flipflops and sandals. Back when I was a full-time magazine editor and had a bigger space back home, I probably had more. But, I usually try to keep a well-edited selection and regularly "purge" the contents of my closet. I do have items from way way back, along with favorites that I've taken to the shoe repair shop to have them reinforced.

What's your shoe size?
6.5

Which pairs are your favorites? Top 5 at most!
Surprisingly, my favorites are pairs I've had for a long time, with the exception of the violet Nike trainers my husband got me over the holidays. Here are the five I really like:

1) Silver Nike slip-ons

- I've had these since 2008, also from my husband (who, as you can probably tell, is a big Nike fan!). In New York, comfort has become key for me. That said, one should still have some semblance of fashion sense even when just walking to the deli or running errands. These, I like, because they go with everything and the silver is very NY.

2) Violet Nike Lunarlon
- I love how the sides of the soles look like pipe-in white frosting! And, the punchy violet hue just beckons to be worn.

3) Beige Zara pumps

- I've had these FOREVER! I got them from Rome on a junket and they're my comfiest pumps ever and they go with everything. They're actually half a size bigger so I've glued foam and gel inserts at the back, where the ankle hits. Last year, I had them repaired and reinforced and it cost more than the price of the pair; I just love them that much. They're already nicked and stained in places, and I'll wear them until they're totally not presentable.

4) Yellow Celine wide-strap platform sandals

- It's super cool that clogs, wedges,and platform shoes are supposedly trendy this season, because I've had these since 2007! I got them without realizing they were the exact ones on the Celine billboard in Megamall and this was the time when these kinds of things mattered to me and I actually paid attention. I'm more laid-back about fashion these days. Anyway, I love the deep yellow shade of these, and, they've survived many summer seasons.

5) Bejewelled light gold VNC strappy heels
- Now, as much as I go for comfort and gravitate towards cozy, metallic, leather, or suede flats, I still do own dressier heels. These were a gift from Frances (of Topaz Horizon), she gave me VNC gift cheques and these are what I got with them. They're surprisingly comfortable enough to wear all day at work. So far, it's a trend I've seen with VNC footwear—they're well-made and easy on the feet.

Ang hirap to cut to five faves! :)

If you could only wear one pair of shoes, which one would it be?

It's a toss-up between the violet and silver Nike shoes. I would probably choose the silver ones because they're sleek (and shiny!) enough to go with dresses.

What are your favorite shoe brands?

Zara, VNC, Kamik, Celine, any of the Target brands, and one day, Sergio Rossi, Roger Vivier.

What's in your shoe lust list?

I am in dire need of good black and gold flats. They're shoe-closet staples and I usually wear them to the ground, until they're stinky. I'll probably check out French Sole in the Upper East Side, as recommended by Kat Dy (of Kat Dy Finds). I have a feeling I'll end up buying some in Target though.

Where do you buy shoes?

Target is a shoe-in, pun intended. Anywhere, everywhere. Back home, a guilty pleasure was scoping the shoe aisles of SM Department Store, Robinsons Galleria, Landmark, Janilyn...

What's that one shoe you can't bear to give away or throw out?

I have these Kamik rain boots that are memorable because I got them on my first winter in New York and they've lasted through many snowstorms and outpours. Recently, I found a crack on the left boot and was a little bothered by it. They're still wearable, for as long as I don't wade in extra-deep puddles (which kind of defeats the purpose of wearing a rainboot, but oh well).

Kamik rain boots, left most.

I also have these white Hotwind pumps with colored leather bows from 2005.

6 year old shoes! Very well taken cared of!

While I stopped being a pack rat a few years ago, I still find it a challenge to get rid of certain shoes. But, as I've read somewhere recently, memories aren't items.

MFO Shoe Series: Naomi Cukingnan, Singapore

A month or so ago, I was inspired by Net-a-Porter's How Many Pairs of Shoes Do You Own video, and that made me want to ask other girls the same question. Because seriously, aren't we all curious about each others' shoe closets? How many times have you wanted to approach a stranger, just to ask her where she got those amazing pair of heels? I am sure you've always wondered how many shoes that famous blogger has in her shoe cabinet. You may also wonder, what type of shoes do girls in New York wear on a daily basis? I am also positive that girls with drool worthy shoe collections still have shoes on their lust list.  And yes, also where and how do other girls store their shoes? So I've asked popular bloggers, fellow writers, and friends from Manila, New York and Singapore to be part of my shoe series. Hopefully in the future we can expand this to girls and guys beyond my circle, heehee!

I've decided to kick start the MFO Shoe Series  with my friend Naomi, because we pretty much love the same shoes, it's like featuring my shoe closet. Although hers I think, is a lot better and more organized than mine, hahaha!

 Naomi with pretty daughter Anika

I have known Naomi since we were in gradeschool, wearing bobby socks and mary janes. I remember back in high school, I was jealous that she danced ballet and wore pointe shoes. I never got to that level. I was a frustrated ballerina and she was the real deal! Hahaha! Fast forward years later, and she is one of my closest friends and my business partner, as we are both based in Singapore with our families.

Read on and enjoy the first of this series. I hope you like it enough to look forward to more interviews! =)

So Naoms, how many pairs of shoes do you own?

With or without hubby declaration? It's just like your custom's declaration! haha. Close to 50 pairs but around 10 pairs just catching dust in the cabinet! (Mukhang understated pa ito, LOL - MFO)

Naomi's "shoe closet", check out her shoe wheel!

I actually wrote about the Rakku Shoe Wheel in Kikay Exchange back in 2007.

What's your shoe size?

Depends on the style of the shoe but it ranges from 5.5 - 6 US sizing.

Which pairs are your favorites?

Repetto, Repetto, Repetto....All my ballet flats, except for the Lanvins. It's my 15min shoe 'cause after 15mins, I get blisters the size so huge it looks like there's another toe growing! yuck!

A literal shoe wheel of ballet flats, with those innocent looking Lanvins, which apparently are a killer!

If you could only wear one pair of shoes, which one would it be?

My black Repetto ballet flats 'cause it's comfy and versatile

What are your favorite shoe brands?

Azzedine Alaïa, Christian Louboutin, Chloe, Charlotte Olympia, Valentino, Repetto, YSL

 

What's in your shoe lust list?

Azzedine Alaïa and Charlotte Olympia...until there is really a massive discount on these brands then I will continue to have a lust list. Gee even when they go on their season sales I still can't afford or justify the purchase price!

Where do you buy shoes?

I buy it from the boutique or in the ladies' shoes section of a department store...especially when the magic sign SALE is up! I just like to try them on before getting them so online shopping never works for me.

I spy Tory Burch, Chloe, Paul Smith, Russell & Bromley, Swedish Hasbeens...

She roughs it out sometimes with sneakers and trainers from Puma, Adidas, Converse & Nike 

- I see no brand loyalty, hehehe

Her boot collection, accumulated while living in the UK - too bad these can't be worn in humid Singapore!

What's that one shoe you can't bear to give away or throw out?

It will be my pointe shoes hoping that one day I can give it to my little girl and see her twirl on stage! I'm not losing hope...

What A Decade!

I was thinking of doing this but was keeping it in the backburner until I had time. And when I saw Celine do hers, I thought why wait, it looks so much fun to look back at the decade that was and see how things turned out in ten years. Here's mine:

2000 - Started a new job in Starbucks Philippines. Worked as the COO's project assistant and bonded immediately with the other project assistant Gretchen, and Nina, the store development assistant, over our love for Mango, fashion, and all things silly! My gossip girls, lunch time shopping buddies, who are up to now - two of my bestest friends! The group was completed by Bic-bic and Jenny!

2001 - Career-wise, I got promoted as merchandising manager. Folks, if you collected Starbucks merchandise from 2001 to 2003 - yes, it's me to love/blame for choosing what goes into those Starbucks merchandise etageres! I still remember when Starbucks water bottles first made it to the merchandise list, I knew they were going to sell like hotcakes because everyone was into working out at the gym. And well, it discouraged the use of those nasty plastic mineral water bottles. My boss was like, "Water bottles?" and I was like "Yes! Every one would want to bring one with them when they work out!" True enough, it became such a huge hit when they first hit the stores! Soon enough so many water bottles found their way into the Philippine market - Nalgene, Sigg, and a host of others. Didn't water bottles become popular corporate giveaways years down the road too? Oh, news wise, this was the year EDSA II happened. I remember my dad calling me at work to tell me the military was withdrawing support. I should have bought stocks right away. Soon after, the AFP Chief was on his way to the EDSA Shrine to join the throngs of citizens happy to see Erap leave. (Thing is though, he is running again for President this 2010. Jeez.)

2002 - I met the love-of-my life who is now well known as, you guessed it, Dear Hubby! Started the process of applying to graduate schools. The year was a flurry of KAPLAN reviews, TOEFL, GMAT and AIMAT exams and writing essays. Wanted to study in NYU and live in New York, but love-of-my-life asked me to stay and study in Manila. It was a matter of choosing love or career. I took a leap of faith and chose love! Yihee! Traveling was limited to Singapore and Malaysia.

2003 - started MBA school in AIM. The year was spent reading case studies, writing business plans, WACS, doing financial statements, analyzing financial ratios, preparing powerpoint presentations with CAN group mates. Best thing about my dorm stay - my girl friends Jaraiza, Conci and Alisa! 

Current events wise, highlight of the year was the Oakwood mutiny. I was at home in Camp Aguinaldo and the camp was on red alert. My best friend Nina, who was (and still is) reporting for ABS-CBN was there waiting for news to break. When my dad confirmed that there was movement and Nina was doing a live report by phone, I was texting people to stay away from Makati CBD. The excitement was short lived. We soon found ourselves praying non-stop for a peaceful end to the mutiny because my dad, who headed Task Force Libra, was right smack in Makati leading the government forces. Latter part of the year, we moved to Fort Bonifacio when my dad became CG. Exciting things for Dear Hubby too! He graduated valedictorian from law school in Ateneo and was #2 in the bar exams.

2004 - Second year of grad school churning out papers, reports and presentations. Worked on the MRR with Conci. My dad became CSAFP. Moved to the White House in Camp Aguinaldo. School trips to Shanghai and Hong Kong. Stayed behind for a couple more days to explore Hong Kong with Jaraiza and Isabelle. Started writing "My Money" for Lifestyle Asia magazine (thanks to Celine!). Such a high to see my name on print! My grandpa passed away =( 

2005 - Started the year with a school trip to Vietnam and Thailand. Graduated and got my MBA. Became a management associate in Citi along with grad school classmates Aset and Mike, we hit it off with fellow MAs Jong and Jacob. Such a fun bunch!

Took pattern making classes in Lasalle College in Makati. Highlight of the year - Got engaged to Dear Hubby, who was accepted into Harvard's LLM program! News Trivia - Remember the Hello Garci days? One time, as Dear Hubby and I were preparing to go out on a date, we went to the ground floor of the White House to get something from the communications room. I saw two kids running around there. As we stepped out of the house, the driveway was filled with cars and a news van. Soon after, Sgt. Doble claimed his family was held hostage in the basement of our (then) home! Turns out those two kids were his. Hostage? What basement? Where? What a liar! If walls could talk!

2006 - Joined cards marketing in the bank. Got promoted.



Went on a family trip to Palawan.

Visited the future in-laws in Vancouver. Dear Hubby started school in Cambridge, MA. Took sewing classes at FIP in Ortigas. Started this blog as an outlet to document my fashion/style obsessions and observations! Soon after, got featured in Inquirer and asked by Jill of Kikay Exchange to contribute blog posts.

2007 - Got married in the Supreme Court. Was interviewed on TV when my friend Pam asked me to be the spokesperson for her site, Steal That Look (don't we all miss that site!). Visited Dear Hubby in Harvard, their family friend Uni in CT, and my friend Me-an in NJ. 

Before graduation, Dear Hubby got a job offer from a law firm in Manhattan. He accepted. 3 months later, I joined him in the US and became a housewife (God's way of saying, "See, isn't this a better way of getting you to New York?" He answered my prayer plus I was married to Dear Hubby! God really works in mysterious ways!). Spent my days exploring the city while Dear Hubby worked. Spent weekends hanging out with our friends Me-an & Eric.

Became a regular window shopper and occasional shoe customer at Barneys and Bergdorfs. Hahaha!

Started blogging in Sanriotown (to be revived again very soon)! Re-connected with my high school friend Tet who moved to New York from Frankfurt with her husband and daughter. Became good friends with online buddies Ruby and Ingrid and neighbor Paz!

2008 - Greeted the New Year with Dear Hubby's Harvard friends atop their apartment building in New York's west side. Church wedding in Manila.

Reunion with my bestest friends from high school.


Met Cecile and Grace in Pepper Lunch and found myself in Manila Style.

Got to dress models backstage for New York Fashion Week. Got to watch a couple of runway shows too. Started my column for The Radar in the Philippine Star. Again, amazing and super exhilarating to see my work in the paper I've read since I was 9. It never gets old. Re-connected with college friend, Sarj, who turned out to be a real housewife of New York City. Met-up with friends in Orlando, FL during the fall and spent Christmas in Vancouver. Best news of all, we became pregnant with Berry.

2009 - Visited my friend Xsa in PA. Went to the Bryant Park tents to watch a show with Sarj during NY Fashion Week and got photographed too. This blog got featured in a Preview supplement thanks to Joanna F. Pierra L. asked me to share my Boston travel tips in Lifestyle Asia Travel. Berry was born in June and 6 months later, became googoo&gaga's Kooky Kid of 2009! 

Went through ge lai. I can imagine getting pregnant again, but I am not ready for ge lai any time soon. In fairness, ge lai helped me recover from the birthing process super fast. I strongly suggest all new moms to practice this. I got my cousin-in-law and her friends who are all chic, sophisticated New York moms convinced, they said I should write a book about it. I think I will! If any of you have ge lai tips, recipes and anecdotes to share, email me at manilafashionobserver@gmail.com. You will definitely be credited for it of course! Finding a literary agent here in New York should be on my 2010 to do list.

In a nutshell, in ten surprisingly short years (it seems like the decade went by in a flash - although graduate school seemed like forever) I earned my MBA, made a career shift from retail to banking (then banking to housewifing!), found myself on the front row seat of Philippine historical events, got engaged and married to the most wonderful guy in the wholed universe, started my blogs (MFO and MFO for Sanriotown), moved to the US and became a homemaker, fulfilled my dream of going into the Bryant Park tents for New York Fashion Week, had our beautiful baby Berry, became a columnist for the Radar in the Philippine Star, met lovely and sincere people who became treasured friends, traveled considerably (but not as much as I wanted to) and moved at least 6 times in the past decade. Whew! What a decade! Each year just keeps on getting better and better! And with God's grace, I just know there are still much more beauty and blessings to unfold for each one of us! Can't wait!