dear sosyalera,

madalas akong nakatambay sa site na to. ang ganda kasi eh. . pero nung nakita ko yung dear sosyalera, sumaya pa ako ng lalo dahil halos pareho lang ang problems ko sa mga humingi ng advice sayo. ). and dami mo nang natulungan pero ngayon, ako naman ang may kelangan ng advice.

kahit malayo pa ang prom, nagwoworry na ako. gusto kong magulat ang lahat pagdating ng day na yun dahil sa appearance ko. simple lang ako at hindi ganun kakikay. medium ang height ko pero gusto ko po sana na ma-emphasize yung long legs ko 8-). maganda daw ang likod ko pero medyo flat chested ako ). hindi naman ako over weight or under weight pero chubby ang cheeks ko. naturally tan ang skin ko plus mahaba ang buhok ko. ang problem ko naman ngayon is kung anu ang susuotin ko plus shoes, hair, make-up at accesories. nagbrowse ako sa mga magazines pero wala akong makita na gusto ko lalo na yung afford ng budget ko.

hoping for your reply.

-sweet16

Dear sweet16,

JS Prom is a much awaited High School event aside from Graduation. It’s good that you’re already looking forward to this day and by now planning on your prom dress. First, you have to know what the ‘usual’ prom dresses are so you can make a difference. Try to consult friends with their fashion ideas because prom themes also depend on your school’s culture. Some themes might require you to look modern, and some schools only allow the conservative type of party clothing.

Second, I don’t recommend black. It’s because as what you’ve said, you want to stand out so it’s better to be in flashy neutral colors to flatter your tan complexion. Try something like peach, light beige or off white… just don’t make yourself look dark.

To emphasize your legs, I advise a short type of gown. Long dresses look gorgeous and princess-y but showing some skin won’t hurt. So to flaunt long legs without overlooking the glam aura, consider short gowns with balloon structure, ruffled layers, tulle or tutu kind of skirt.

Fabric is a major factor in selecting your gown. Silky and shiny textures will look good on you. Avoid printed fabric so it won’t seem like you’re just in an ordinary sun dress (unless the prints look embroideries). Even if your gown is solid colored, its design, ruffles and accessories will help do the enchanting-look trick.

Also ensure to shop for the right accessories and hairdress. Like illustrated below, the gown was accessorized with a small brooch but still, it stood out like an important accessory. Try to add details like this.

And lastly, the shoes! Be like Cinderella and wear a glittery pair or pumps. You don’t have to be particular with the brand but know the latest styles. Everyone wear high heels during Prom to add height and sophistication. This is a must have since more likely, you’ll be in a short dress so your shoes absolutely matter.

Just in case you worry that you might have the same style of clothing with other prom goers, then you may want to consider customizing your gown. Whether the gown is just bought in a boutique or hand downs from other people, you can ask a seamstress to alter or add more details to your garb. In this way, you’re not just limited with the style that you see in stores but you can add personal touch of styling to your outfit. Again, it’s cost effective.

Furthermore, you’re not forced to go to a stylist or make-up artist to groom you on that day. You can do it by yourself so you can manage your make-up colors to match your dress. Avoid putting too much dark eye shadow or pinkish shade. Baka magmukha kang magsasagala. Stick to neutral shades and concentrate on 1) putting on lipstick, 2) even application of concealer and 3) eye mascara. These three cosmetics can noticeably enhance your features.

Ideally, I recommend a type of balloon gown with ruffled skirt, haltered sleeves and low back-line to compliment your described body-type. Have a wonderful prom day and don’t forget to bring a cute date. Hehe.

Love Lots,

Leyn

Hello Leyn!

Uh… Sorry about the screaming subject headline. But anyway, I think you’ll give me the best advice on what to wear next week—August 14. My organization is about to held this ‘awards party’ where we award org. people for their outstanding work in the org. (Durrr.) Haha.

And the sub-theme as what they’ve indicated is “Brooch”. And the main theme as fashion show…. So any outfit as long as there is a brooch! Dammit, as I know brooch are usually used by old/adult people. Yeah. My perception.

But anyway… there! I really need help. I want ideas. Well, I actually have ideas in my mind but I want more. I know brooches can be either pinned on the outfit or basta anywhere near the neck…or whatever. I don’t really know how to best place it WHERE.

And also.. fashion show. Daaaamn. Well, it’s a challenge ’cause I usually wear just the normal good dresses paired of with the right accessories. I just don’t know how to go out with a BANG!

Thank you very much! I would appreciate your fast response ;P

- aileen

Dear aileen,

I think this is the first time I’m answering a concern promptly so pardon if my response might not be that useful. Anyway, reflect on this – what do you usually see on a regular fashion show?

Couture. High heels. Glam Hairdo.

Quit the usual party dress this time. Be in something different. Everyday is not a runway day so this event comes once in a blue moon. First you need to spy on other people’s planned outfit. The occasion might be kind of formal, or maybe funky. I have no idea but you still have time to figure out because I bet you don’t want to end up looking bizarre among the crowd.

For the brooch, the usual designs are flowers and big gem stones. Try a different taste – like pinned charms and animals.

I don’t suggest that you just pin your chosen brooch on your dress or top like everybody else. So to add style to that brooch thing, fasten it on a flower corsage so it won’t look plain, dull and as is.

Well other event goers might have already thought of attaching a flower on any side of their chest and that’s so 2005. So wear it as a neck accessory instead so you’d look sophisticated and different.

Looks familiar? Yes, these are Serena and Blair dresses. You probably get the idea by now.

Brooches are small so they’re actually not the first thing that will be noticed that’s why you also have to think of your dress. This is an event so in a way, formality is observed but I believe this is a school thing so don’t make yourself look old and bitchy. Buy or borrow a dress with ruffles or full skirt. Avoid too much accessories because your jewelries might not match your brooch.

And lastly, whether you wear a short or long dress, make sure you’re in high heels.

Enjoy shopping this weekend. Need to catch some ZZZs now. Hehe.

Love Lots,

Leyn