Autumn Winter

October 5, 2009 – 9:04 am
Filed under men's clothing

Dear Sosyalera,

Malapit na mag-autumn dito sa lugar namin at kasunod na neto ang winter. Ano ba ang usong trend ngayon for this season? Gusto ko na kasi magpalit ng wardrobe dahil nakakasawa na rin yung mga bulky-type-jackets. Naghahanap rin ako ng alternative sa denim jeans. Wala kasing uniform sa school ko tapos lagi lang ako naka-maong na pantalon.

Pwede ka ba mag-suggest ng mga magagandang coats, leather/casual jackets, hoodies, cardigans FOR MEN etc.? I usually buy my clothes from TOPMAN and Urban Outfitters.

Thanks a lot!

-Anonymous

Dear Anonymous,

Basing on the latest vogue from 2009 A/W runways, neutral colors and bold prints are all the rage. I’d be suggesting that you stick with the classic looks appropriate in school. Be fashionable yet think that you’re not attending a party or concert. With your case, it’s better not to catch much attention but pick clothes that you can effectively mix and match to maximize your school attire closet.

Cardigans: Classic V-neck type / Exact Fit / Neutral Colors

Coats: Hoodies / Double Breasted Coats

Style and Prints: Checkered / Funnel Neckline

Trousers: Dark Colored Pants

If you’re fed up with the usual bulky jacket, then avoid the nylon or leather materials which are prone to folds and creases.

To complete the outfit, gear yourself with a dark colored doctor’s bag. With regards to footwear, moccasin type of shoes is now fully fashioned to match any clothing without getting too corporate. If you feel awkward with the Native American feeling, then leather boat shoes, pointed lace ups or your classic white sneakers can also be your options.

I guess I don’t have to elaborate each piece since the concept of “classic grays and neutrals” is already understood. :)

Inggit ako. Sana may winter din dito. Hehe.

Love Lots,

Leyn

Petite Fashion Tips

September 23, 2009 – 5:51 am
Filed under women's clothing

Hi Leyn,

I’m not sure kung meron ka ng nasulat na entry about dito sa iko-consult ko sayo but I still wanna ask for advice about my fashion dilemma.

I’m a girl na 5” lang ang height and skinny. Well, I dunno kung skinny talaga akong matatawag kasi kahit naman payat ako, nasa tamang shape naman ang mga hita ko, I mean, hindi rin mahahalata na super payat ako. Yun lang siguro ang advantage ko sa ibang skinny girls.

Since karamihan ng mga girls ay sayo tumatakbo para iconsult ang kanilang problema pagdating sa fashion, at since matagal na panahon ko na rin namang sinusubaybayan ang blog mo, ginrab ko na ‘tong opportunity na ‘to para magtanong na sayo. Nahihirapan kasi akong mamili ng damit kasi una sa lahat, parang pang children’s section ang size ng mga damit ko at pangalawa, yun mga damit na gusto kong isuot e parang bagay lang sa matatangkad. Ayoko naman magmukhang trying hard kaya gusto ko sanang hingin ang opinion mo about this (and your recommendations as well). Isa pa, nahihirapan din akong mamili ng babagay sakin na accessories kasi karamihan, nagmumukhang malaki sa akin.

Gusto kong maimprove yun fashion sense ko. Sana matulungan mo ako dito. (:

More power sa iyong site, Leyn. You have my support sa dalawang contest na sinalihan mo. Hindi na ako magtataka kung mananalo ka. ;) Keep it up! Looking forward to your reply. Thank you.

Much love,

Ceey

Dear Ceey,

You can check my advise about Fashion ABCs for petite girls here:

Petite Flattering

Petite Problem

There are few email senders who have already consulted about their skinny figure or height issues but it’s okay if I’d add a few pointers for you. I know it’s hard to look for stylish and in-trend clothes in smaller sizes but if you just have the keen eye to spot for the right dress and where to buy, I don’t even think your height would be a problem.

As what you’ve said, you’re into certain clothes that complement tall girls. Actually, having wide range of variety of clothing will just make you feel frustrated because we have to admit that some clothes only flatter women with taller height. So the best thing you should take in mind is LEARN the type of clothes that will match your petite physique and then latest fashion trend comes next.

Everytime I window shop, I notice that boutiques and department stores still have stocks for XS or even XXS for smaller shapes (though you might have difficulties in shopping with jeans and shoes.) In case your size is only available in the children’s section, then that’s fine. I know some petite women who shop their clothes from teen/children’s section and it’s not a loss. People won’t even know where you buy your clothes. Organize your shopping list like this,

  • Buy tops and dresses from boutiques.
  • Jeans and other bottoms from the children’s section, department store.
  • A pair of no-size leggings is an alternative for pants.
  • Stick to thin, small-sized and elegant jewelries instead of big plastic accessories.
  • For bags, it’s better to use purses or small satchels.

Also, wearing two pieces puts an illusion that divides your top and bottom, so you should get used with wearing dresses instead. It’s all right if you’re always in blouse and jeans but you need to check the appropriate matching of clothes that go with your height.

Dresses / Jumpsuits

Accessories

Bags

Shoes

If you really want to improve your fashion sense, make an effort to read magazines and check the latest collection in stores when you mall stroll. Don’t just buy anything that’s comfortable and looks good in YOUR eyes because a lot of fashion victims think like this. When you shop, also prioritize the QUALITY (fabric and if sewing is aligned properly), SIZE (fit your prospect outfit and don’t buy if it doesn’t suitably hold your shape), PRINTS and COLOR.

I’m not just making you feel good but believe me, some girls would die for a smaller figure so that actually makes you luckier. :)

Thanks for supporting my blog, I hope you won’t get tired visiting my page. :D

Love Lots,

Leyn

High Heels Shoes

September 17, 2009 – 6:33 pm
Filed under shoes

Dear Sosyalera,

If you’re going to look inside my closet, majority of my bottoms would probably be composed of JEANS. I’m comfy with jeans but I basically have troubles when pairing shoes with it. I’m just tired of using flats and slippers. I do know that when you wear jeans, it’s much better when you’re in heels but I just don’t know which style to choose. What can you probably suggest?

THANKS! :D

- Steppy :)

Dear Steppy :) ,

Jeans are comfort clothing so most of us pair them with our cosy flipflops. This fashion is very casual and laid back. I really admire girls who can manage to look stylish with jeans and don’t just stick with the usual pantalon porma.

Since you’ve decided to wear heels instead of the comfy flats, the next step is to choose for the right pair. If you want to reuse some of your (or your mom’s) stuffs, you might find these classic styles that don’t go out of date.

There’s nothing wrong if you still put on some of your old high heels but I think it won’t hurt if you’re also updated with the latest look on footwear. Gladiators, Platforms and Cutout sandals/shoes are still in trend.

Forget about your knee-length boots because Ankle boots look more appropriate in the Metro.

One good thing about high heels is that you can wear them even in a dress, shorts or formal slacks. And to all girls who are in a budget, allot a portion of your shopping allowance for 1 pair of classic high heels. At least you have something to use on formal occasions or parties and won’t have a hard time borrowing from someone else. We’re not in New York and dressing down is a culture so it’s a clothing to save on.

Lastly, make sure your attire matches your shoes. High heels sandals are recommended if your outfit looks modish and girly – though I think this is common sense na. Haha. As for the ankle boots, a pair looks good whether you’re in a boyish blazer or dress.

Well as for me, sa umpisa ko lang gusto mag high heels. I tend to become lazy with these shoes once my feet feel achy. Kaya don’t be like me. :D

Love Lots,

Leyn

P.S. I would like to apologize to people who sent their e-mails for the past 3 weeks. Something went wrong with my inbox so I might respond belatedly. Huhu.

Short Do

September 3, 2009 – 4:33 pm
Filed under beauty & wellness

Hi Leyn! =)

Ayan, sa wakas, nagkaroon na rin ako ng chance na magemail sayo sa Dear Sosyalera blog mo. Kasali ako sa mga dumarami mo pang fans na naaaliw at nage-enjoy magbasa ng blog(s) mo. Oo, fan ako. :D Hehe. Anyways, may problema kasi ako. Kakapagupit ko lang kasi ng buhok. (see attached picture) And this time I decided na magpagupit ng as in maiksi. Naiinggit kasi ako sa buhok ni Nina. Haha! Last time ata na ganito kaiksi ang buhok ko eh nuong college ako. Since then, pinahaba ko na ang buhok ko.

The day na nagpagupit ako, gustong-gusto ko ung itsura ng buhok ko. Mega style kasi nung naggupit. Naisip ko, mas madaling i-manage ang short hair. Wash & wear lang. Here comes the problem – naisip ko lang kasi. Few days after kong magpagupit, ayan na, nagsisimula nang magkaroon ng sariling buhay ang buhok ko. Hindi ko na malaman kung panong style ang gagawin. Buhaghag (tama ba term) kasi ung buhok ko eh. Manipis na buhaghag. I’ve stried styling it on my own pero failure. Siguro kasi, di naman talaga ako sanay magayos ng buhok. Hehe.

So Leyn, pwede ka bang magrecommend ng kung pano pwedeng ayos ng short hair? Saka hair products na pwedeng gamitin. Nagpunta na kasi ako sa mall, eh sa dami ng products, di ko alam kung alin ang bibilhin. Ayoko namang magtry lang ng kung ano, kasi sayang sa pera, tas baka masira pa lalo ung buhok ko. Ayoko rin namang bumili ng sarili kong salon para lang laging maging maganda ang ayos ng buhok ko. Haha. Pero sana ganun ako kayaman. LOL.

Thanks for reading my email & more power to Sosyalera. =)

– Karmi

Dear Karmi,

I hope by the time I post my answer, sana hindi pa mahaba ang buhok mo. Haha. Anyway, I’m not a Pro when it comes to hair styling and maintenance, but since I’m still updated with hair vanity, I can just attest to some methods I’ve tried before.

It’s natural that our hair looks at its best after going through a salon haircut. Of course, our stylists won’t leave it unpleasant but its maintenance is all up to you. Some people effortlessly fix their hair because their hair type is ‘fine’. Unlike with some people who have the ‘coarse’ type, which needs the aid of hair styling products just to achieve a desired form.

Treatment

I really want to try a short hairdo but unfortunately, my hair type isn’t that manageable (medium thick type). So I need to maintain it long to avoid fly-away ends and the weight will drag it down. With your case, I’m not sure what hair type you have but a salon treatment will help. Try a Relax Hair Treatment AFTER a Hair Strand Test and if not qualified, just pamper yourself with any Oil-based hair treatment.

And because I know you’re not here in the Philippines, here are some products available everywhere.

Products

  1. Schwarzkopf Essensity Clarifying Shampoo and
  2. Schwarzkopf Essensity Richesse Masque – If you want something organic, try this Schwarzkopf set.
  3. Kérastase Nutritive Sublimateur Jour – Applied as an afterbath conditioner w/o rinse. Just dry your hair with it to achieve a smooth and silky effect.
  4. Kérastase Nutritive Nacre Nutri-Sculpt - Shine enhancing treatment wax
  5. Loreal Elseve Smooth-Intense Daily Rinse Out Treatment - Used as a regular conditioner after shampoo.
  6. Loreal Elvive Night Serum – Leave on product for overnight use. Treatment for frizz and rough feel texture.
  7. Thinning Scissors – Ask a friend to trim your layered-bob cut hair using these scissors. Also great for trimming bangs.
  8. Shower Comb - To avoid split ends due to hair drying, it’s better to use big combs to untangle hair strands.
  9. Rat Tail Comb - Best for styling especially after applying wax or hair spray.

Accessories

If you’re kikay enough, then I believe you can wear hair accessories if you want (para hindi masyadong mag-concentrate ang tingin ng iba sa nagulong buhok mo. Haha.) For casual wear, thin headbands are my bet.


One trick is to dry your hair after shower. Don’t just leave it wet and let it dry while you go to school or work. You just have to take note that this routine is prone to split ends. Basing on my habit, I let my hair dry with an electric fan instead of hair blower. A stylist once advised me to face against the fan while drying. This is to avoid fly away ends and the hair’s form will go inwards.

The illustration sucks, pero parang ganyan. Haha.

For me, I can’t think of any style for short hair but let it down. Simple but sexy. You may have acquired a perfect hairdo from the best salon but what matters is how you keep the style. Not everyone is blessed with perfect-shining smooth strands and we have to deal with it. Each of us has to know what brands get along with our hair. Try reading online product reviews so you can also check what’s within your budget. I may suggest some products I’ve used before but these might not flatter your scalp. Just like soaps and skin creams, it’s a process of trial and error. :)

I didn’t include your picture here para naman sa privacy. Haha. Thanks mimay!

Love Lots,

Leyn

JS Prom

August 23, 2009 – 1:43 pm
Filed under teens, women's clothing

dear sosyalera,

madalas akong nakatambay sa site na to. ang ganda kasi eh. :P . 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. :D

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

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