Hi Leyn!

Kumusta? I’m 23 years old at bago lang ako sa pagtuturo. Isa akong propesora sa isang catholic university sa may u-belt at mga 3rd and 4th year college ang aking mga eschudents. Ang aking problem ay ganito: medyo nahihirapan akong magpaka-itsurang propesor sa school (ilang beses na din kase na hinahanapan ako ng registration form ng mga guards kase napapagkamalan akong estudyante). Sa college namin hindi naman masyadong strict sa dress code lalo na meron kaming laboratory subjects na kelangan talaga eh cowboy ako kase medyo pisikal magturo ng lab. Gusto ko kase maging mukhang teacher naman kahit papano, pero ayoko naman magmukhang thunder at uber pormal. At the same time, ayaw ko din naman maging hippie hippie, na tipong pupunta lang sa gimikan. Kadalasan din, pakiramdam ko sobrang casual ng suot ko as compared sa mga ibang kasama ko sa faculty.

Ano bang magandang style kaya ang babagay sa isang batang guro katulad ko? Pati na rin sana ideas sa shoes. Ang liit ko lang kase kaya gusto ko sana mag-heels sa school kaso parusa naman sa binti sa haba ng klase. Gusto ko sana magmukhang fashionable, respectable at friendly all at the same time. Hehe.

So there. Thanks Leyn!

xoxo,

Teacher Z

Dear Teacher Z,

I’m fine, thanks for asking. :> It’s good to know that you want to improve your everyday wear at school. No offense meant but you’re right, some professors tend to look conservative, old school and very formal – parang thunders (matanda) nga kumbaga. And with your age, you need to go with the hype of trendy fashion so you’d feel good about yourself.

Start upgrading your under construction wardrobe with the following styles:

Collar Shirt Dress

Plain dresses are fine but if you want to wear something smart-casual (na hindi mukhang pupunta lang sa gimikan) then collar shirt dresses can be an option.

High-waist Slacks

The style can make you look sophisticated with any kind of top- 3/4 blouse, long-sleeves, polo shirt. Tuck in your top and add simple accessories and tadaaa, mukha ka nang kagalang-galang.

Wide Skirt

For a young professor like you, I’d recommend something that’s up-to-date and youthful. Try wearing wide skirts to achieve an hour glass body shape.

With shoes naman, gayahin mo nalang yung ginagawa ng mga taga-bangko (lol), magbaon ka nalang ng mid heels shoes then change them flats when you need to relax your feet or when you’re commuting. Closed shoes looks more formal and appropriate. Stick to basic colors so you can match them with different clothes in your closet.

Good luck… with your students! Lol.

Love Lots,

Leyn

hi leyn!

i found your blog very entertaining, funny, and informative. unlike other blogs (-gers), it’s not “trying hard” to be what they are not. you struck me with your observations that are so true but we dont even admit or pay close attention to. i am not really a blog reader, so spending 20 mins browsing and reading really made me chuckle.

since im writing u an email, I might as well ask you for a fashion advice. I  browsed through advice you gave, and I love the section where you feature those cocktail dresses. for me, elegance is the way to go. the dresses are not showing too much skin, but just pure femininity with a bit of playfulness. I love those! would u mind telling me where to buy or where u get those?

ok here it goes. I need some advice regarding everyday wear. I am 5′3″ and I have a skinny frame. I am 24 already but I look 16. Probably because I wear too “comfy” clothes. My everyday get up is vintage shirts, jeans, and my ultra-reliable converse. I am not comfortable with high heels, though I manage to wear them during events. I do wear dresses, but not for everyday because I can’t move easily. I tried doll shoes but I don’t like the feeling when my feet gets sweaty, so I always end up wearing sneakers. How do I achieve a combination of comfort and style?

hope u will answer this email. more power to your blog.

regards,

corrie

Dear corrie,

Thanks for wasting 20 minutes of your precious time just to read my blog. Yun talaga ang gusto kong mangyari, ang aksayahin ang mga oras nyo. Lol.

Anyway, based on your email, your style is a combination of hipster, relaxed and casual fashion. A typical person who wears this kind of outfit is labelled either a musician, an artist or a call center agent. Kung hindi ka naman musician, artist or call center agent, then I think you’re lost. Lol. You need to have a style that matches your personality or let’s say, you must carry your own fashion statement.

First, if you want to change your style, make sure your fashion approach matches your profession. (If you’re still a student, then no worries.) Second, find alternatives of your casual pieces:

Why not replace your vintage shirts to jersey tops; your regular jeans to jeggings; and shift from converse shoes to flat espadrilles. From there, you have already upgraded your usual style to something trendy yet comfortable. You mentioned that you look 16, and I assure you changing your style can make you look your age. Accessories also matter. Quit those fancy friendship bracelets and wear what’s in trend – layered bangles, shiny beads and laces.

I will no longer advise you to wear dresses because I know you can’t change your everyday wardrobe in an instant. I know a lot of girls who just can’t let go of their jeans and sneakers but adding a little flair like shiny bracelets and dainty earrings can do the trick. As I always say, upgrade your basic clothes, accessorize and fixing your hair can do something.

In addition, all the dresses I feature here are actually designer clothes. I just don’t want to mention the prices and where to buy them for my readers to be resourceful.

That’s it!

Love Lots,

Leyn

Hey there!

I know that you have already posted an article about possible outfits for the Prom.  However, the outfits you suggested were for students.  What about for teachers like me?  Dressing up for a school event is hard for us because we have to look great without overshadowing the stars of the party – the students.  Thus, I am sure that your suggestions would be appreciated by the myriad of teachers in the country since the Prom season is about to begin.

Thank you and more power to you…

Sassy_Miss

Dear Sassy_Miss,

For a middle aged high school teacher, here are my suggestions:

Some teachers tend to be conservative, especially with their clothing, so they usually wear coverups like a shawl or blazer when wearing spaghetti straps or tubes. But blazers, jackets or coats are not for prom fashion so shift into wearing dresses with artsy sleeves instead.

For women who want to maintain a classic look, look for plain evening dresses that can emphasize your curvy figure. Accessorize with a set of pearl jewelries, ala Lily Vander Woodsen.

For those who want a youthful style, flowing and balloon cocktail dresses are suggested.

These are just suggestions IF you don’t want to outshine the students in wearing long gowns. Basically, prom fashion for teachers should not look too conservative nor revealing. But always remember that whether you’re dressing up for a casual event or a formal prom night, choosing the right outfit should also depend on a body type of a person. Para hindi mukhang lousy ang fitting.

Tip:

• Avoid wearing dresses with prints. Plain fabric look more formal and sophisticated.
• Any plain dress can look fab with shiny high heels.
• Aside from your dress, plan on what hairstyle and make-up that suits you. Choose a style that can make you look younger.

Hi ms. leyn,

Isang sosyal na new year para sayo! I am an avid reader of your blog for quite a long time na rin and I am getting really good ideas in how to dress up not to mention how you really make me laugh with your funny way of answering all those inquiries of women in need like me.

I am already 27 years old, a typical office girl. The thing is I was invited to attend a rave party this coming saturday and needs to dress up for that. I am totally clueless on what to wear especially given with that short time to prepare.

I just feel that my Little Black Dress might not be appropriate. Please help, I need something that would not require me to look at every ukay-ukay in town, thanks a lot and more power!

anne

Dear anne,

Isang sosyal na new year din sayo. From what I know, ang rave party ay tipo ng party na may inuman, strobe lights at ecstasy. Lol. Actually, you can be in your LBD naman when attending parties like this. Perhaps you just have to style yourself ala rave party look and not like you’re attending a formal event.

I haven’t discussed this yet but 2011 will be influenced by punk fashion. So shift from a classic look to something liberated. How? Choose the right shoes, accessories, hairstyle and even your make up.

Buckled / Studded Shoes

As I’ve posted before, you can choose from the 2011 shoes trends but I think a pair of buckled boots is the most appropriate style for the party.

Metallic Accessories

Metal, silver and gold accessories are a good combination for a black dress. Thin layered bangles can make your outfit fab without spending too much.

Hairstyle

I assume there will be drinking and dancing at the party, so style your hair that it will stay in place until the end of the night. If you choose to let it down straight, make sure it’s ironed and groomed with hair cuticle. Yung tipong kahit magsasayaw ka ay balik-ayos parin sya. You can also tie your hair up like a bun, which is one of the trendy styles this year. Just a tip, just fix your hair differently from your everyday hairstyle.

Night Make-up

Accentuate your eyes with thick eye shadow but watch out with the colors. Avoid the racoon eyes effect by just applying eye shadow on the upper lid of your eyes.

At kung nagkaroon ka naman ng oras mag ukay ukay, look for a jersey top with longer side or back hem then pair it with a flashy skinny jeans or printed leggings. Actually, hindi mo naman kailangan mag effort sa clothes, kasi madilim naman sa party. Lol. Focus on your hair and make up instead.

Good luck!

Love Lots,

Leyn

Hi Leyn,

I am an avid reader of your blog, and as what your other readers say, I have also read all your entries here. I like how you give fashionable tips to different kinds of your reader’s concerns.

So, I would like to ask if you can also provide me with the same tips? Our company christmas will be on the 17th and I still don’t have any idea on what to wear. We will be having a Rock and Roll theme, a not so new theme, but I would like to ace this as they will be providing a prize. Haha!. I don’t want to have an outrageous costume though, an outfit that will really stand out as THE best rock and roll outfit. I would really, really, really appreciate your help.

Thanks Leyn,

Clueless Rocker

Dear Clueless Rocker,

Just a hunch, I bet the winner on best costume will have to put on fake tattoos and exaggerated rock and roll outfit. I will have to suggest an outfit that carries a rock theme na hindi ka naman magmumukhang cheap na EMO.

When you say Rock & Roll, fashion-wise, things that come into your mind are color black, metallic, untidy hairstyle and a bit of hipster fashion statement. Here’s a looklet inspiration for you:

If you’re not into minimalist style naman, you can add a black fedora hat too. You could also google Taylor Momsen’s fashion statement because she’s a hollywood young star I know who could pull off a rocker chick attire. Kung gusto mo talagang manalo, magdala ka na rin ng electric guitar. Haha. Basically, just focus on styling yourself with dark / grayish clothes, night make-up and studded accessories. Follow the party’s theme but be fashionable at the same time. And please, don’t wear something like this.

Enjoy the party and happy holidays!

Love Lots,

Leyn

Hi Miss Leyn,

I found your blog just a few days ago ng mag-search ako ng fashion tips for fat girls and sa lahat ng blog na nakita ko ay ang blog niyo lang ang helpful talaga. still meron pa rin po akong mga questions na gusto ko sanang itanong and i finally had the guts to email you hopefully you will help me with my fashion problem.

Im Fat (over weight not just chubby) 38 inches ang size ng beywang ko and im 5 ft 4 inches tall. Im 18 yrs old. My real problem is my BIG TUMMY kasi maliit naman po ang braso at mga binti ko. hindi ko po alam kung paano ko siya itatago. i always wear a black T-shirt and maong pants and that’s all, no accesories and such.

But i want to change my self bago sana mag tapos ang year na ito. I want a new me and a new start. so sana matulungan nyo ako with a little fashion help. thank you! Godbless and take care!

Sian

Dear Sian,

The fact that you’re starting to search for fashion tips is a good sign that you want to improve your lifestyle and clothing. Well I have to be honest but based on your description, it will take time for you to get slimmer. So instead of forcing yourself to hide your bulges even though they’re still obvious, as of now, just try to improve the plus size clothes you wear. There’s nothing wrong if you still wear jeans and black shirts because they’re recommended for your body type but now try to add flair on the clothes you’ll buy.

For example, the outfits shown above are better alternatives than wearing a large-sized boyish shirt and jeans. Your arms and legs are okay naman, so you just have to focus on the middle part of your body. I already mentioned some fashion tips for plus size girls on some of my entries but for you, here are my picks:

Collect plain cotton Jersey T-Shirts and over-sized blouses. You have to be careful with prints because some designs can tend to make you look bigger. Shirts designed with asymmetric shape are tummy flattering. Good thing they’re trendy and practical. Marami nyan sa MUJI.

Skinny or Stretch jeans can make your bottom half look slimmer than wearing your ordinary straight or flair maong pants. You’ll might have a hard time looking for skinny jeans your size so spend on custom-made pants. It’s a good investment since jeans usually last for years. Black or blue is okay but you can also buy lighter colors like gray and taupe for a change.

Bold accessories are in trend but not recommended for plus size girls. Stick to thin necklaces, bracelets and small earrings. Accessories don’t have to be expensive kaya as of now, shop for fancy long necklaces before you spend money on jewelries (gold, silver and black tones should be on your top list when choosing accessories so you can match them with any clothing).

There! Just start with the basics then you can shift to more girly clothes like tunics and kaftans. Just keep up the motivation dear!

Love Lots,

Leyn

Hello Miss leyn!

Btw I follow you on twitter. And until now, I wonder about your real name. hahaha Anyway, gusto ko lang sanang humingi ng advice as to what to wear in school. I’m a college student, 5′5 mejo slim but morena (in short, dark. LOL). Gusto ko sanang maging fashionable but school policies hinder that. Kasi naman, we’re not allowed to wear sleeveless, shorts, and imagine pati leggings bawal. I hope I’m making my sentiments clear. Saka I’m comfortable with jeans, kaya sana patulong as to what to pair with them. I have another favor, pwede bang iba’t-ibang variations? Hehe. Sana matulungan mo ko.

Maraming Salamat miss leyn! More power.

- G

Dear G,

Yeah, Leyn is just my nickname but I’m not an anonymous blogger so my real name and pictures are all over the Internet. Pero dahil hindi naman kayo yayaman sa personal info ko, just forget about it. Lol. Moving on, I already have an entry about school outfits that you might want to check. But to help you more, here are some suggestions on how you could be fashionable with jeans.

First, shop for the right jeans. Since leggings aren’t allowed in your school, I advise you to wear either straight leg, skinny fit or stretch jeans. Dark colors, particularly black, can give you variations on your everyday fashion.

Instead of the usual t-shirt, skinny jeans are better paired with jersey tops (aside from girly blouses). Jersey style looks relaxed, casual yet stylish. It can also hide bulges and can draw attention to your legs (for girls who are a bit chubby). Trendy colors that complement your skin tone are neutral shades like gray, beige and taupe.

Keep aside your sneakers and flip-flops and invest on a pair of studded flats. From what I know, some schools don’t allow slippers or open sandals so wear something with straps and lock. Espadrilles shoes are also in and they look more chic than the usual bulky rubber shoes.

And of course, accessorize! A simple necklace with charm pendant is enough to complete your outfit. Make sure to buy accessories that you can match most of your clothes.

Remember to balance what you wear para hindi ka mukhang ‘commoner’. Boyish shirt + boyish pants + boyish shoes are so 1990s. You can still look fashionable even withough wearing sleeveless tops and floral skirts. Start from being creative with your jeans.

Entiendes? Happy schooling!

Love Lots,

Leyn

Dear Ms. Leyn,

Hi Ms. Leyn! Kamusta po? I hope you’re doing fine. I emailed you because I want you to know how helpful your page is. I’m a long-time reader of your blogs and ever since I first visited your page, it’s been my habit to check just to see if you have a new post! Haha. Yes, it’s true. I really enjoy reading this blog, I find it very interesting and helpful.

I’m a college freshie and we have this event on Friday. It’s the first event which will be held outside the university and we’re all invited. At first I thought we’ll wear our uniforms but yesterday they announced the dress code and it’s semi-formal. They indicated that girls should wear cocktail dresses. No miniskirts, plunging necklines, t-shirts, shorts, and slippers. My problem is that I don’t have an idea on what to wear on this event. I’m pretty sure that everyone already has an idea on what to wear for the theme “dress to impress”. I don’t want to stand out that much but I don’t want to look manang either. Another thing is that I don’t know where to buy the dress. I’m also on a limited budget so I guess my budget for the dress is just up to P1,300.

I hope you can help me with this, Ms. Leyn. I’ll be waiting for your response.

Sab

Dear Sab,

I’m doing great. Thanks for asking.

Anyway, I think someone already asked me the same problem but it’s for a prom event. First, I advise you to do a bit spying on your friends’ outfit this coming friday. Hehe. So you’d have an idea what are their styles. From there, think of what fashion you’d like to wear: something classy? young? or fab?

Classic & Sophisticated

Wearing something classic and simple is safe, cheaper and won’t go out-of-date. A Little Black Dress can save you on that day. Then wear some bold accessories for an updated look – like bangles, stoned necklaces, layered necklaces or fringe earrings. An affordable black dress can cost from 800-1500 pesos.

Hip & Young

Since this is for a school event, I think it’s okay for you to wear something youthful and colorful like bright colors, patterned prints with flowing skirts. If you choose to be in a printed dress with bold designs, you’re good to go with just a simple set of jewelries.

Something Fab

Well in case you’re not satisfied with the classic or teen-y style, then you have to shift to an updated fab dress. The style may sound vague so it’s still up to your taste what looks good on you – it may be a mini dress with leggings, a shoulder padded dress, a cocktail dress with black blazer, etc. Just don’t forget to wear high heeled platforms and layered bracelet cuffs.

It would be better if you already have a desired look in your mind before shopping. It will save your time and energy when you plan your style ahead. I cannot suggest specific brands you can check because dresses are available everywhere (kahit sa department stores and thrift shops). You can also browse some of my previous answers for store reference. I believe it’s not about the brand but your taste in clothes. Always remember that your dress color should complement your skin tone and its fabric must flatter your figure.

Good luck and enjoy your weekend!

Love Lots,

Leyn

Good Day, Ms Leyn! I am a freshman college student taking up Tourism. I’ve been reading your blog posts for a long time and I find it very helpful and informative most especially to the younger generation. Just like your other fans, I would like to ask for some help and advice regarding my problem.

Weeks from now I’ll be attending a seminar with my fellow batch mates in a hotel. Our professor told us to wear a corporate attire during the seminar instead of wearing our uniforms. My problem is this is my first time attending a seminar and this is also the first time I’ll be asked to wear a corporate attire. The only idea I have in mind about a corporate attire is the usual attire of those people who works in an office like those slacks and blazers. I really don’t have an idea on what to wear for that seminar. I want to wear a corporate attire that looks formal yet chic and not old-fashioned. I hope you can help me with this Ms. Leyn. Thank you and God bless.

- V

Dear V,

As what you’ve said, slacks and blazers are like ‘the standard corporate attire’ so it’s acceptable if you wear them on the seminar. But just for a more stylish look, I advise you to wear a semi-formal dress with short sleeves, above-the-knee length and minimal prints. Pair it with a classic black pumps and you’re off to go.

Here are other dress samples and notice how a simple black purse and a pair of black shoes complement the dress. So be careful with the colors you pick. Safe shades are maroon, teal and other earth colors.

If you find the style a bit liberated, you can wear a blazer as a cover-up and it will also make you look “more professional”. Brush up your hair, accessorize with small jewelries and apply light make-up. From what I know, tourism students are advised to look presentable so make sure to look good especially on events like this.

Thanks for being a reader of my blog! Spread the love!

Love Lots,

Leyn

Hi Leyn! I’ve been reading your blog ever since! Your advices are indeed helpful and I am meaning to ask for an advice, too

2 weeks from now, we’re going to have this party at school, the problem is, I still don’t know what to wear. We are ought to wear formal attires, but sleeveless & above-the-knee dresses aren’t allowed. I’m petite, dark, super tall, long haired. just imagine an ugly bitch! I’ve been wandering the web but still can’t find what would fit me best. I’m a bit desperate now. I hope you can help me?

- PIA

Dear PIA,

What kind of party is that? No sleeveless and short dresses? WTF. You’re in trouble. LOL. Kidding.

I didn’t quite understand what you meant with petite then super tall? Mali yata. Don’t call yourself ugly because you will definitely feel and look ugly if you think like one. Anyhow, with your case, the styles I can suggest are draped skirt cocktail dresses with sleeves. Here are my picks:

Match your knee-length cocktail dress with a pair of black pumps to elongate your legs. I am thinking of suggesting Maxi Dresses but long gowns with sleeves may look overrated. You will never go wrong with the classic black high-heels.

For accessories, just carry a small purse for the formal-look and simple set of jewelries. If you want ala-Serena Van Der Woodsen look, maintain a down straight hairdo or tie your hair up if you prefer to look more formal.

Just a tip, if you’re doing a little fashion research on the web, do not Google search like “dresses for formal party” or “formal attire for petite girls”. You might be landing on styles posted last 2003. Be specific on the actual dress you want to draw idea from. You should check out decent fashion brands (Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood, Juicy Couture, Chloe, Marc Jacobs, D&G etc.) and look at the updated collections one-by-one. From there, you will have an idea what are the IN styles, colors and designs.

And lastly, get yourself some confidence girl. You won’t ask for an advice if you don’t want to feel pretty.

Time to shine!

Love Lots,

Leyn