Hi Leyn!

I consider myself a person who can design. I do visual art (photography and graphic design) but I think I cannot do good when it comes to styling myself. I have been reading GQ and August Man for a while now and they do help when it comes to clothing a man. But the models there are, well, good looking and slim/lean/whatever. How about for a guy like me? Ehe.

I am sort of biggie on the midsection (gah! big tummy and thigh!). I have been trying to cut that down but as of now, what are the styles you can advice? Thanks much! I trust your style that’s why I asked you. :s

If you need reference, i have attached a pic. :s

Dustin

Dear Dustin,

Basing on the picture attached, I think you pick the right clothes naman. But not the right colors. You may not be as lean as those guy models on magazines but you don’t look obese naman. I bet you already know these but as a recap, here are the basics for men with fuller bodies:

• Wear dark-colored clothes to avoid noticeable folds and creases.
• Avoid spandex-like material.
• Choose fabric with minimal or small prints.
• When layering clothes, make sure that the prints are harmonized with the other pieces you wear.

Actually, any style of top or bottom is okay. Since we’re talking about Men’s Fashion, it’s not as meticulous as Women’s style. The pieces that will look good on you depend if they are well-adjusted to fit your body (not too small nor oversized).

Tops
Wear 3/4 folded up sleeves as your basic top for an everyday smart casual wear. Collect the basic colors first before buying shirts with prints. You can wear these tops together with a pair of slacks, jeans or even shorts.

Pants
Wear darker jeans (gray or black) instead of denim because you can use them as an alternative for formal trousers. Skinny jeans don’t match your body type so buy the straight cut, boot cut or twister style. If you are a slacks person, do not wear the pleated type.

Layer
You can wear thin cardigans instead of bulky jackets. Knitted vests are okay as long as its color go with your base clothing.

Accessories
Invest on long lasting accessories like a formal watch and white gold bracelet. Pandagdag pogi points din yan.

Shoes
Stick to basic colors like black, gray, tan and a pair of white sneakers. If you think pointed lace-up shoes are too gay, then try boat shoes or desert design instead.

I am recommending neutral colors (tan, khaki, taupe, beige), gray shades, black and white. These colors look more professional and smart. It’s better if you always make yourself look presentable especially if you have clients as a visual artist. So basically, I am suggesting that you upgrade your wardrobe with smart-casual clothes that can help you with your profession. Artists don’t have to be ragged and dressed in pop culture shirts, if you get what I mean.

I hope my advice gave you an idea. Good luck!

Love Lots,

Leyn

greetings sosyalera,

this is my first time to e-mail coz like your other first time blog reader, i just came across your page and didn’t even realize na nabasa ko na pala lahat ng post mo. hehe. u really give good pieces of advice and is very credible about it. keep it up.

i just e-mailed you coz i wanna seek your advice as well. i just wanna ask for any opinion or recommendation regarding face moisturizer, products that heals acne and removes pimple scar.

i am really having a hard time kasi i’ve tried a lot na.. pero wala pa ko makita na something that suits me. i’ve used one product from L’oreal as a moisturizer. kaso pansin ko na hindi na nagheal ung existing pimple ko at dumami pa. i don’t know if i really have sensitive skin. pero ang alam ko lang hindi lahat ng products na ginamit ko kasundo ko. sana may mai-recommend ka. sana ung not so expensive and ung para sa sensitive skin na din and sana personally recommended mo. if ever na ur using one.

wanna hear from u soon. thanks.

kate

Dear kate,

Hello there first time blog reader, sana there will still be 2nd, 3rd and nth time. Thanks for reading sosyalera. Anyway,

When I was in high school, I had lots of pimples and my parents told me that it’s because of genes. My mom also had pimples when she was young. I tried going to a dermatologist but I stopped because each session was very expensive back then. So I used different products to improve my acne and like you, I failed. Lol. Some products really smoothen my skin but the effect was temporary. So after many product attempts, I ignored my acne and poof! I had clearer skin. By now I already passed the period where my face will suffer the genes curse because my face got clearer after college.

But for the sake of temporary solution, I’ll attest to some products that have good remarks and proven effective.

First, take vitamins that can improve your skin – Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Grapeseed Extract or Anti-oxidants. Taking care of your skin really does start from within and don’t just rely on external products. As for myself, I’m taking Nutrilite Bio-C Plus for my Vit C supplement. Cosmo Skin GSE is also a good grapeseed source. I know some people who have been taking pills who got rid of their pimples but once they stop the regimen, acne breakouts occur. So it’s up to you if you want to take the risk of taking pills.

Next is to have a product that can heal pimples like salicylic acid. I prefer using Clean & Clear Acne Spot Treatment instead of Panoxyl (Benzoyl Peroxide) because Panoxyl can heal pimples but leaves dark spots afterwards.

Use soaps that have micro peeling effect with organic ingredients. Soaps can remove pimple scars but it takes time to see the result. Papaya and Calamansi soaps are actually effective and safer than chemical based brands. Based from my experience, I also tried L’oreal Facial Wash and it didn’t work for me.

As you’ve mentioned, you’re using a moisturizer but this product won’t heal pimples. It’s better if you stick with anti-acne products first and use a moisturizer for maintenance. Before, I tried a cheap product with Licorice called Godiva and I can say that it whitened my scars a bit. I saw the results after a month. I stopped using the product since I no longer need it. Hehe.

But the most effective brand I tried was Obagi. Especially the Exfoderm that smoothens rough skin due to pimples. As of now, a set of Obagi Toner, Obagi Facial wash and Obagi Exfoderm costs about 10,700 pesos. 4,500 pesos for the Exfoderm alone. Pricey, but it’s all worth it.

For treatment, diamond peel is effective but rather expensive. It’s because you’ll need to undergo a couple of sessions. Once in a while, have a facial in a professional derm clinic to make sure you’re getting the right treatment.

I would just like to stress out that brands may be effective depending on your skin so it’s still a matter of trial and error. That’s why I just mentioned the ingredients that I believe helped me in improving my skin. Still, the best way to know how you can treat your acne is consult a dermatologist.

That’s it! Have a nice day!

Love Lots,

Leyn

hi leyn!!

it’s summertime right? so my super friends and I are planning for a summer getaway. well, we’re going to a beach somewhere in zambales i think. swimming of course and island hopping as well. now, i want to ask from you some ideas for super cute outfits for our summer getaway. i’m tall, morena, and skinny.

I know you know better. hehehe. that’s why i decided to send you an e-mail. actually i’m a constant visitor of your site. hope you could give me some ideas.

Thanks much! more power to your site and God bLess!

–znar

Dear znar,

Since you’ve been reading my blog, I bet you have already thought of a swimwear for the outing. I won’t be talking about the swimwear anymore and let’s move on with the beach accessories instead.

Even though you’re planning to wear a plain back swimwear (for example), you can still look fashionable with Beach Hats. Yun nga lang, I checked that most beach hats even cost the same as a typical swimwear. There are stores that sell such accessories like Girl Shoppe and Accesorize. Price ranges from 350-700 pesos. A white fedora hat can be an alternative.

Don’t forget to bring summer sundresses that you can wear over your bikini or swimsuit. Since you’re on the beach, kahit morena ka, any color is okay. The brighter, the better.

Another option is wearing Coverups.

Aside from your travel bag, carry your things using a summer tote. Something you can bring while you’re on the beach.

Lastly, don’t forget your two-toned wayfarers or classic aviator shades!

You don’t have to buy an expensive swimwear just to be fashionable. You should also prepare your accessories such as mentioned above. I know, going to the beach is about swimming and enjoying the water. But I believe it won’t hurt if you try dressing up a little.

Enjoy the trip!

Love Lots,

Leyn

Hi Ms. Leyn,

I’ll be attending a debut on May (it’ll be my first time) and I’m one of the “18 treasures”. The theme is Hollywood Fashion. But the problem is I’m not into fashion and all that dressing up stuff. I’m just the type of person who’s used to wearing T-shirts and jeans. I’m 23 years old, 5′2” in height, thin (and flat-chested). Can you please help me decide what type of clothes/dress to wear and the accessories and shoes that go with it?

Your advice/suggestions are very much appreciated.

Thank you!

plain girL

Dear plain girL,

First, I’m advising you to check out Instyle.com for the latest Hollywood Fashion and Celebrity Styles. You can get inspiration from that website.

Well, 5’2height and  skinny built won’t have much problem in choosing the right gown. Since you’re part of the program, it’s valid that you’ll be in a fab frock. Actually, I’ve been suggesting these styles from the past emails I’ve answered. And as a recap, here are your options:

Long gowns with simple embellishments are popular with Hollywood stars. You can pair an evening Maxi Dress with a pair of Light-colored Open High Heels to add up height.

Another fashion you can consider is a Cocktail Dress. As much as possible, choose a dress with minimal print or design. Same as long gowns, light colored heels are perfect for mini dresses.

You can look glamorous in a simple gown with an Updo Hairstyle and Simplest Accessories. (Like thin chain necklace, small pearl earrings or a dress watch is enough.) Sport a red carpet fashion with an eye-catching Purse like Hollywood celebrities do.

Don’t feel plain and timid, events like this don’t happen often so you should be in your best look.

Good luck!

Love Lots,

Leyn

elo po ms. sosyalera.net

hinge lang po sana ako ng konting opinion. makiki-fiesta kame sa Manaog this coming april 1st, then mag be-beach kame ng family ko with my girlfriend.

ask ko lang kung bagay yung body shape between pear shape and hour glass sa monokini?? also she has a small bust. ang sabe nya sa sm north daw nakakita sya. then ito yung mga store na nabanggit nya. Sassa Activewear, Tomato and Cinderella. (good thing i googled it and visited your site ). this coming sunday namin balak bumile.

ty po.

Oh hello there anonymous,

Are you sure that’d be on April 1st? Hehe. Anyway, if you still need an advice, here it goes.

I’ve posted that Hour Glass Body type can wear Monokinis because they have a proportioned figure. But if your girlfriend obviously has fuller bottom then I don’t recommend the monokini style. Kasi the monokini can just emphasize her hips and bottom half especially that she has small bust line (like illustrated below). It’s just like the monokini will be formed into a triangle shape. As I’ve posted before, halter tops with underwire are more fitting for girls with small chest.

Again, I’m unsure about her actual built so it’s better if she’ll try fitting the monokini first. Kung Hour Glass type talaga ang body type ni girlfriend, monokinis are okay then you can just cheat the bust line with paddings. Hehe.

Nice to know you’re helping your girlfriend with this. Have a nice vacation!

Love Lots,

Leyn

Hello Sosyalera!

Medyo related ang question ko dun sa latest post about church clothing. Kaso ang sakin kasi, meron kaming formal event (parang prom) pero church-related so siyempre, medyo conservative type ang clothing. May nakita na akong dress kaso tube dress siya. (I attached a picture btw) I was hoping you can help me kung pano ko maibabagay sa event yung damit ko. I’m thinking of either putting short sleeves, or boleros or something like that. Isa pa ring concern ko ay yung weather. Autumn na kasi dito so usually around 22-26 degrees C ang weather.

Thanks in advance!

Love,
Siopao

Dear Siopao,

Thanks for attaching a picture. Well the moment I saw the dress, the style that came into my mind is a Shrug-Dress-Leggings outfit. I didn’t include your dress here but you come up with something like this:

Look for a Shrug/Bolero with ruffles, details or fur to give life to your plain white dress. You won’t look overdressed as long as you maintain the solid black & white color as your base clothing.

Instead of wearing plain black leggings, look for laced ones that still complement black shoes.

Classic black pumps are the best pair you can wear that can set off with the entire outfit. It’s all right to wear black flats but high heels look more sophisticated and stylish.

Para sa aming nandito sa Pinas, 22-26 degrees is cold already (haha) so I’m not sure if you mean the same thing. I believe the style above is wearable for Autumn season. I hope my brief idea’s not late for the event.
Good luck dear.

Love Lots,

Leyn

Hi Leyn,

I’ve been an avid reader of your blog since Jologs Socialite, and I can see that you have your own SLR too. Which goes my question, how do you manage to stay fashionable while carrying your SLR with you? Like do you put it in your bag or bring it as it is? It feels so bulky whenever I go out because aside from my handbag, buhat ko rin bag ng cam. Or I use a big bag and put the cam in, which is bad I think, kase aalog alog. I need some tips, because I’m attending a grand family reunion next month and I still wanna look fashionable hindi yung mukhang photographer ka lang. As far as I know, no theme for the reunion.

I hope you can help me with this. Kung pwede isama mo na rin ang pwede kong isuot.

Isabel

Dear Isabel,

Hi! I only know a few people who are aware of my previous blog so thank you so much. Anyway, regarding your question, honestly I don’t have a decent camera bag and I’m just using the free black bag from Canon. It’s because I prefer disassembling my SLR when travelling and just put it inside my travel bag. If not necessary, I don’t carry it as is kasi parang ang show-off diba. Haha.

First, wag mo akong tularan and save your money to buy a fashionable bag. Like the ones from Crumpler. From what I know, they sell colorful camera bags and price ranges from 2500 up to 10000 pesos. Quite expensive.

Personally speaking, I don’t want to carry a camera bag especially when I’m in public places. So what I do is enclose my camera with bubble wraps and bring it using a large bag. On regular days, you can use a cushioned Tote Bag if carrying a SLR bag hassles you.

But if you’re not particular with the bag then just don’t overdress on the reunion. When the setting is quite formal or it’s an evening dinner, you can wear Jumpsuits to move freely. You can choose from either long jumpsuits (semi-formal) or short playsuits for casual events.

Complete your outfit with Flats or Mid-Heels sandals. Taking pictures may require a lot of walking and roaming around so wear comfortable shoes as much as possible. Avoid the laid-back rubber slippers.

No worries dear. Happy reunion!

Love Lots,

Leyn

hi! i need an advice, my mom and i are always arguing when it comes to color combination, proper dressing and speaking. i would say my mom is quite maarte when it comes to those stuff. she says, hindi daw ako marunong magpasosyal kahit konte. so i looked for a site or blog that could help me. i actually feel small when she say those wordsto me (sigh). she even told me to enroll in a finishing school. what do you think? would i go and enroll myself or just buy some etiquette books? maybe books can help me. if you know some books that could help me solve these problems, pls give me the titles and authors. i badly need them.

thanks.

-pat

Dear pat,

How are you? I hope you’re okay. You seem stressed and pressured but I believe you can still handle this personal issue. I don’t know the exact details but I hope I can encourage you a bit.

I understand if you can’t directly tell your mom about how you feel. I don’t want to sound idealistic and advise you to open up your feelings. You and your mom should meet halfway and don’t force yourself on doing things that she wants. First, analyze your personality and lifestyle. Baka naman there are times that you don’t act properly or you’re too boyish. Moms tend to expect their daughters to be prim and proper so know your mom’s expectations.

Try to improve yourself gradually. No faking or pretensions. Do it for personality development and not because your mother wants to. Enjoy while you educate yourself and love what you do. Instead of reading technical books, buy yourself some fashion magazines and draw inspiration from them. There are lots of online websites you can follow that can improve your fashion sense. Even window shopping and checking what’s new in stores can help you.

Another thing, actually the manner of speaking depends on the environment you grew up with. Conyo people are engliseros and engliseras because they practice it at home and they study in schools where almost all people speak in english. There are some who didn’t grow up in a well-off environment but can still speak well. I suppose this is a matter of inborn intelligence, on how you were brought up and the kind of people you’re with. So I don’t think you can change yourself overnight. Reading books, watching films and even blogging can develop your communication skills.

To be honest, I’m not familiar with etiquette books so I can’t name any. Well I know I can pick the right clothes, know the latest fashion and speak properly without basing on books. But if you insist and you’re willing to enroll for a finishing school, that’s still up to you. Though I can sense you can do this on your own without any technicalities and pressures from your mom. Also, don’t feel shy on showing some changes. I know each of us wants to improve our personalities but shyness tends to suppress us.

Don’t feel bad about your mom, I bet she just want you to appear well-bred and cultured. You’ll thank her someday. Just be positive and good luck!

Love Lots,

Leyn

hello leyn,

good afternoon, im a big fan of your site, and im so happy that i always find something new here. i love your newest article bec i like the dresses in them. anyways, let’s go to The dilemma.

in our church, we are counseled to dress modestly. although there are no exact rules, most of us decide to follow knee length when it comes to skirts and blouses with sleeves. no short shorts or anything skimpy, no cleavage, (you get the point?) unless your going to have to go to the beach in which case,of course youd have to wear a swim suit. i really like this idea of dressing modestly. wala kaming problema dito, we’re proud of dressing this way. contrary to what others say, i do not feel restricted at all.

sa mga parties, successful naman ang halos lahat sa amin sa mga sinusuot namin. walang nabebreak na rules. pero pahirap na ng pahirap maghanap ng isusuot. grabe sobrang hirap humanap ng dress na maganda na may sleeves. uso pa rin ba ang mga bolero. i hope you could help me look for fashionable finds

sincerely,
mimi mouse

Dear mimi mouse,

Hey, I appreciate that you always check my site. I just hope you keep on supporting my blog. Hehe. Anyway, I do understand some religion/church dress codes but yeah, it’s not an issue. I just noticed that most people who follow such dress codes have the same manner of clothing (like denim skirt and plain shirt). It seems that you want to be more stylish than the usual skirt & blouse thing so here are some ideas for you:

If you’re patient enough to browse some of my responses, you’ll know that I’m a sucker for girly Sundresses as casual wear. So my first tip is for you to collect Sundresses with sleeves. Florals, patterns and geometric prints give life to a conservative looking dress so you also have to be particular with the fabric print.

Collect White Blouses or any light color so you can match them with any skirt you buy. Instead of picking dull looking skirts, why not try different styles like Pleated, Handkerchief or Gartered. High waist style and colorful skirts are really hip this season.

Another option is wearing Maxi Skirts. The style may look conservative but I believe it’s still on how you pick the prettiest design.

Boleros are not weather friendly especially for the following months. I also don’t recommend layering unless necessary. But if you have some sleeveless dresses then wearing a bolero is valid. Just make sure its color blends with your base clothing. Just a tip, super fit bolero tops looks horrible so wear something that fits your actual size.

Lastly, you can add flair to your entire outfit with fashionable pair of sandals. Pick sandals with laces, ribbons and fancy stones.

Remember, there’s nothing wrong if you experiment with fashion. Just take in mind your culture’s rules. Good luck~

Love Lots,

Leyn

Dear sosyalera,

Greetings!! I just received an invitation yesterday from a friend whos daughter is celebrating her debut on april 09. It says in the invitation that attire would be “strictly formal, any color except white”. my 1st problem is, im not used with wear formal attire because im just simple and i remember attending same occassion but with different attire such as beach, hawaiian attire. Please help me choose one which is fashion updated that i will be confident enough but won’t show too much skin. im one of the 18 treasures here. im 5′6 tall, morena, broad shoulders, shy type/not 100% confident, 31 years old. my second problem is I have some “peklat” above my toes so im not that confident enough to show my whole legs. But anything you will suggest would be greatly appreciated.

thank you and more power!!!

emz

Dear emz,

Since the debut will be tomorrow already, I’ll just answer shortly. As you pointed out, you’re not totally confident with dressing up. So based on your personality, you shouldn’t force yourself to wear mini-length dresses and tube tops.

Long Sleeves are valid for occasions like this. You can also wear a Maxi Dress. The key for looking sophisticated is choosing quality fabric and updated fashion. Just remember to avoid over-printed and colorful dresses for a more formal look. A conservative dress can still look stylish with details, drapes, ribbons and asymmetric cut. Black is fine but I think other solid color is better as a debut attire.

With regards to your leg scar, wearing skin tone stockings can help if you decided to wear a shorter dress. If the scar is bearable, ankle cuff or cut out shoes can conceal the flaws.

I just hope you still have time to look for the right dress. Thanks for dropping by.

Love Lots,

Leyn