SKULL CANDIES

I was in Greenbelt recently to return some borrowed items we used for a fashion shoot at our fave accessory store, FIRMA, and then I was caught looking closely, almost awe-struck, at these magnificent pieces that were on display which happened to be designed by multi-awarded artist/jeweller MICHELLINE SYJUCO.

HANGIN' HEADS: I thought these skulls were exhibit pieces for a museum, or figurines that were sold for display, but these were actually hand bags for those who dare!

For many of us, skulls (and even bones) may appear scary for they are mostly associated with the dead and horror films, and sometimes goth, but Ms. Syjuco probably had something else in her mind as she recently unveiled her new jewelry collection composed of sculptural skulls that combined fashion, craftsmanship and wearable artistry. I was astounded with these accessories - I am thankful that the sales personnel gladly allowed me to take photos of these marvelous things of beauty.

Dare to wear! Not many of us can carry these accessories around, but Ms. Syjuco's designs are sure to turn heads 360 degrees, for sure! Create fabulous fashion statement with shock and awe with either modern studded skull accessories with pop art inclination, or ornamental gold jewelry that seemed to be crafted from the Dark Ages.

GREEN WITH ENVY. It's a modern-designed studded skull hand bag in metallic emerald.

HORNED LI'L DEVIL. Skull bag in fiery red with chain strap.

TRICK OR TREAT. Studded skull hand bag in blue-violet with pop-art sensibility.

BLACK HEAD. Turn to the dark side with this black skull hand bag.

WHITE HEAD. A studded white skull hand bag is just as awesome.

RING MASTERS. Studded skull rings in different pop-sy colors.

FOOL'S GOLD. Ornamental sculpted gold jewelry with skulls and stones.

THE SORCERER'S STONES. Gold rings, cuffs and necklaces with skull and jewel stones.

THE SKELETAL ARMY. More skull rings, necklaces and even a crown.

Check out MICHELLINE SYJUCO's skull collection available at FIRMA in Greenbelt 3.

THE NEW ROYALS: PROM KINGS 2014

Am I posting this article very late? We're nearing the end of February, and I can picture in my mind that most promenade halls are going almost empty and sadly, gone... But I am pretty sure there are still those youngsters out there who are prepping up last-minute for this momentous event where they can dress to the nines and make their entrance with a grand, big bang. Actually, this blog feature is dedicated to those male teenagers out there - if you want to make killer porma to impress the girls and dream of becoming a prom king, then read on... THIS IS IT!

Rounding up different prom trends and aspirational formal looks (with emphasis on aspirational, mind you) for the young Romeos with forward and unquestionable fashion sense, SM MEN'S FASHION ditches the usual and conventional all top-to-bottom formal coat-and-tie prom looks (sorry to say, the "relatable" prom looks are already outdated, and hmmm... boring for my taste), by updating the classic suits and reinterpreting them to look younger, even slightly edgier with subtle styling that doesn't go fashionably overboard. 

Make way to the new royals: the SM Men's Fashion's Prom Kings of 2014 are here!

Of course, there are the ever-dependable black suits. But for SM MEN'S FASHION, they come in proportions that are slimmer, and more tapered. Gray suits also top the list of prom must-haves, but a tinge of bright color or printed inner would break all the monotonous shade. Furthermore, you may want to try touches of cool blue on your formal wardrobe for that distinct masculine vibe. Or better yet, why not push the envelope and try a top-to-bottom one-colored suit that looks very modern, very forward and absolutely dapper?

But hey, what are prom events for, if not for the bagets? An all-formal look would sometimes equate to dressing up for adult manhood. As stylists for this shoot, my partner George and I realized that times have changed and fashion continues to evolve that sometimes formal doesn't have to look too restricted and dictated, and if you're bagets, looking cool and breaking the norms are what the modern times are conveying to the youth. Therefore, we suggest you to experiment a bit (although if you're the classic type of guy, there's safety in all-formal sleek black suit with formal shoes), and since you're young, why not use sneakers with your formal attire (just as what music icons in the US are doing)? Or accessorize in minimum with caps and shades just like Givenchy in its latest runway showcase? Moreover, add some flavor to your suit with printed bowties or neckties, and perhaps, some quirky pocket squares or lapel pins? All these things because you are young, experimental, creative, and looking your best in a once-in-a-lifetime event doesn't have to mean to look too "relatable" to everyone at all!

Anyways, my MGP team is extremely proud of this pictorial that looks just as nice, just as clean, naturally fun and yet, so concurrent.  We believe that these are what ad images should be like - subtle images (with underlying trends that showcase what's hot right now) that are meant to be aspired for by ythose who clamor to make a statement as soon as they arrive within the promenade halls. 

Get cue from our pictorial below and see various styles that best suit your individualism, and hit the nearest SM Department Store now!

SLICK IN BLACK. Choose slim-fitting all-black blazer with pants and opt for inner white dress shirt for a classic look. Update your style with a quirky black bowtie or a necktie. Finish off with a pocket square or flower pin, or do it the edgier bagets way by donning a pair of dark shades or a sporty cap.

INTO THE BLUES. Add cool, masculine vibe to your black or gray formal ensemble by using a hint of something blue - whether as an inner shirt, a pair of pants, or accessories like bowtie or necktie.

COLORED SUITS. Dare to standout in a sea of black and gray formals by donning a slicked one-colored suit and pants combination that look fresh, dapper and style-savvy. Very Gucci S/S 2013!

SUBTLE PRINTS. Enliven your formal getup with a dash of prints. You may use a printed shirt underneath your suit, , or do pattern clash with bowties or neckties, or align your style with pinstriped pants or blazer.

Clothes from Main Street, Markus and Uberto Duranti - all available at SM MEN'S FASHION in SM Stores nationwide.



__________________________________________________________________
Photographers: Frank Hoefsmit & Jo Ann Bitagcol
Art Direction & Styling: Mike de Guzman & George Palmiano (MGP)
Assisted by: Sheila Marie Danipog, Joel Ven Malazo & Sim Horato
Makeup: Bobby Carlos
Hair: Francine Quirino & Kierlo Gosiengfiao
Models: Antoine (Ideal People), Tommy Esguerra (Elite Manila) & Sidney Du (Mercator)
Ad Agency: IXM

MUST WEAR NOW: MACRO FLORALS

It's only the second week of February, but I can already feel the hot temperature seeping thru my pores. It's inevitable - summertime is here! As we start sweating profusely under the already-simmering sun, we say goodbye (momentarily) to layering and dark clothes, and say hello to something colorful, light and easy-breezy.

With chic (and leggy) city girls living an independent life in mind, FREEWAY goes full bloom with one of summer's ultimate trend - floral prints. But the local fashion brand has it big this time - as in literally BIG! Gigantic graphic images of rose flowers and tulips serve as beautiful canvasses for dresses with simple & modern cuts, and light tailored casual pieces. If you want to stand out while looking ultra-feminine and fresh, these macro florals are indeed bold summer statements.

Check out FREEWAY's lookbook below and style your macro florals with mini clutches, a pair of colored heels and a slicked hairdo:

Visit FREEWAY at The Row, Glorietta 1, SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, Trinoma, SM City North EDSA, Robinsons Place Manila, Robinsons Galleria, SM Bacoor, Marquee Mall Pampanga, Ayala Center Cebu, SM Dasmarinas, SM Clark, Chimes Mall Davao, SM Fairview, SM Iloilo, Market! Market!, Robinsons Metroeast, Festival Mall, SM Southmall, SM Pampanga, SM Sucat, Abreeza Mall Davao, Limketkai Mall CDO, KCC Mall Gensan. Or go online: www.freewayonline.com.ph

GET SHOE CRAZY: THE METRO'S LARGEST SHOE SELECTION NOW OPEN!

I don't know if the news have reached the former First Lady Imelda Marcos - the grand madame of shoes - but I am sure she'll be thrilled once she learns about this (and I believe she'll be the perfect brand ambassador should SM executives think about it)...

Last December, THE SM STORE Makati rehashed their entire 4th Level, and re-opened it with what they take pride on: the country's largest shoe selection in Metro Manila - dedicated to all Imeldifics out there. The whole 5500 sq. meter floor boasts of over 25,000 different pairs to choose from, ranging from ladies' to men's to children's shoes. Now that's something Mrs. Marcos would love to see for herself!

Welcome to the ladies' shoes style arena!

The men's shoe section looks elegant and more streamlined.

It's colors and shapes for the kid's shoe section.

Every shoe shopper can feast their eyes (or their feet, perhaps) on sprawling footwear brands local or international - and there's 300 brand names on the list! There's SM's Parisian, Milanos, Salvatore Mann, Signor & Sugar Kids, of course, then Janylin, Janeo, Swatch, Rusty Lopez, Gibi, Itti, and others that fill up the roster for local names. Then there's L.A.M.B by Gwen Stefani, Jeffrey Campbell, Badgley Mischka, Adrianna Papell, Chinese Laundry, Matthews, Stacatto, CMG, Naturezza, Marie Claire, Florsheim, Bugatchi, Supra, Nike, Adidas, Puma, New Balance, Converse, Sebago, Sperry, Ked's, Crocs, Havaianas, and others that represent the global labels.

A sparkly heeled beauty by BADGLEY MISCHKA.

This white faux snakeskin shoe with black straps by L.A.M.B. by GWEN STEFANI can add sophisticated yet animalistic appeal to any of its wearer.

This contrasting pair of JEFFREY CAMPBELL shoes is both classy and alluring.

Evening romance by ADRIANNA PAPELL.

My eyes were glued to these black patent brogue hybrids with contrast-colored lace straps and midsoles by BUGATCHI.

Feelin' super high with these SUPRA high-top sneakers.

Fresh, colorful kicks from NEW BALANCE.

Check it out: punky rubber shoes by NIKE.

A small gathering of invited guests were treated to a cocktail party that was hosted by the alluring Ms. Joey Mead-King, followed up by a brief fashion show,  which Geo & I and our MGP team of assistants styled all together. After so, everyone was led to a media shopping spree, where members of the press, fashion stylists and editors and the like, as well as bloggers, were given the opportunity to shop for the footwear of their choice within a specified budget limit - and that's for free! Of course, Geo and I were part of the treat - I scored a black croc midtop sneakers from Draven (which I also used on one of our cute male models), while Geo had a pair of brogues with colored soles from Trod. Super thanks SM Shoes & Bags, we super lavshu!!!

Supermodel/TV Host Joey Mead-King (looking sharp while wearing an all-blue suit) welcomes everyone to the event.

A small fashion show was one of the highlights of the media launch.

Gorgeous male models donning boots, business and formal shoes.

The bagets, on the other hand, pose with casual flats and sporty shoes.

The female models show off their stunning heels from different brands.

Models Richard Juan, Coraleen Wadell and Lance Howard.

An army of fashion bloggers put their style on to action.

Fashion editors, chosen press people gear up for a unique shopping experience as they rush to check out SM Makati's newly established shoe section.

Binibining Pilipinas 2013 runner-up Pia Wurtzbach holds on to this lovely metallic gold shoe with black ankle straps by Chinese Laundry.

Giselle Tongi-Walters with her lovely daughter.

Joey Mead-King is all smiles with her pink studded pair.

Mr. Eugene Saw, SVP for SM Shoes & Bags, being interviewed by ABS-CBN's Marie Lozano.

Nicole Hernandez looking pretty and fresh as ever.

LTBG's Ricci del Rosario (Marketing Manager for Men's Shoes), Nico Chu (VP), Rina Lacia-Bugayong (AVP for Marketing) & Eugene Saw (SVP) with G Tongi-Walters and her daughter.

L-R: Arsi Baltazar (former head of GMA Artist Center for talent management); Rina Lacia-Bugayong; Eugene Saw; Fashion designer Francis Libiran.

"BIG" FASHION IN HONG KONG

Kung Hei Fat Choi! I just love hearing it around, especially from high-spirited Tsinoy friends speaking in a rousing Chinese accent! 

The other day we celebrated the Chinese Lunar Year of the Horse, and I wish everyone prosperity, luck and good health the whole year round. And by saying so, this is a fitting blog entry to welcome 2014 as my partner George, her sister Ghing and I recently made a leisure trip to Hong Kong - the city that never really sleeps.

This is the second time that Geo and I have visited HK, and just like last year, shopping for fashionable finds is the ultimate goal (talk about really nice shoes, some bags, some clothes and even branded scents that are priced cheaper than in our local shores). We love HK that's why we came back. Aside from its modern structures, towering buildings, bustling streets, MTRs and Disneyland, it's the everyday inspiring fashion that HK nationals breathe anywhere you look around, the endless shopping surprises and destinations you can find in just about every corner, and the stylish, edgy brands that we always hope for, but are not available (yet) in the Philippines.

We only stayed in HK for three days, and January is the best month to visit because of cant-resist bargains, discounts, and sale markdowns you'll find almost left and right. Besides, we went there a week before the Chinese New Year, and we could feel the festive atmosphere growing upon us. It was freezing cold, too, and for me, it was the best time to put on layers of clothes and hit the streets in utmost cool and style that we Pinoys couldn't do in a tropical climate.

I am never a fan of selfie blogging, but this time I'll take the plunge. Geo, Ghing and I share one thing in common - we aren't sexy, fit or slim. But during our entire trip, we challenged ourselves on how to dress up extra while we're on the heavy side, and put our personal styling on to action in hope to come up with something "BIG" while in Hong Kong. To all chubby, plump, well-rounded guys out there, we can definitely make it happen and create an impact - agree?!

DAY 1

Arrived at the HK's New Territory airport in modern denim on denim style. I layered my bleached jean jacket with black leather sleeves (from Zara Man) along with a cool inner piano-printed graphic tee (from Uniqlo), plaid flannel shirt for grunge feel (from 21 Men), and a contrasting pair of dark-washed indigo denim pants (from Zara Man).

I'm still at awe (for the second time) with HK airport's magnificent modern architecture... 

The road to the modern world... HK, here we go!

At the MTR going to Kowloon. Geo shown here having a madame moment with his reflective silver sunglasses.

After checking in at our hotel, we hurried to H&M at Canton Road as our first stop. I just love how they styled their mannequins on display with red, black, gray and white theme and finished off with horse masks and tails to signify the Horse-y Lunar Year.

Geo looms large around figurine charms for luck at the Year of the Horse with Agnes B store in the background (at Sun Arcade Mall).

Horsin' around - for good fortune :-)

Eye catching red-and-gold setup in front of i-Square Shopping Centre along Nathan Road in preparation for the Chinese New Year.

Sale! Sale! Almost everywhere.

DAY 2
Friends, behold... From this point on, you'll be seeing  our version of blogger style pictorial. Stomachs in, chests out! :-)

Making faces. The three of us having breakfast at the ever-reliable Mc Donald's.

Holy Smoke! Get this street-inspired look under the cold weather: Checkered wrap coat by Indu Homme; Graphic sweat shirt by Givenchy; Black sweat pants by Uniqlo; Gray backpack by Salvatore Mann; Black midtop sneakers by Adidas Originals.

Skirtin' the issue - Geo opts to stand out a midst fashionable Hong Kong in a man skirt (with Givenchy styling in mind). Blue knit shirt and leather skirt both by Forever 21; White inner button-down shirt and black slim pants both by Zara Man; Scarf by H&M; Red knapsack by Hello Lulu; Gray trainers by Reebok.

Ghing puts on a black ensemble made interesting with a pop of bright color and styles it with loose, ombre-colored wavy hair. Black coat and dress both by H&M; Hot pink leggings by The SM Store; Red tote by Longchamp; Boots by Forever 21.

Ghing checks out the gigantic 3-storey Adidas store near Nathan Road, which is a stone-throw away from our hotel.

Exploring the city is more fun with a quirky style statement.

If you're around Tsim Sha Tsui area, take a walk along Canton Road where you'll find a whole stretch of exciting high-end stores and global luxury brands.

The power of shopping - the Chinese people flocking outside Hermes as early as 10AM!

Sibling rivalry :-) Geo and Ghing at the lobby of Holiday Inn (along Nathan Road) while waiting for our city day tour.

Pedestrians crossing.

Roaming around is easier with a chic but functional backpack.

Peace be with you! All set and ready to go for a half-day city tour! :-)

First stop: The Peak Tram. The queue going up is just crazy!

Me, Ghing and our lovable tour guide, Luna.

The power of three :-)

Me and Geo on the way up the Victoria Peak aboard a tram.

A breathtaking view of Hong Kong atop the Victoria Peak.

Ghing marvels at the arc.

My turn for that special Kodak moment, hehe!

Wait, this is the real special Kodak moment with my beloved partner :-)

Paintings being sold on a narrow path atop the Victoria Peak.

Giging's gets an art attack! :-)

2nd stop: The Aberdeen coastal town with the infamous Jumbo Floating Restaurant.

A "Sampan" shown here, a traditional Chinese fishing boat.

Me standing on a Chinese pier. The emerald green water looks impressively clean!

That brother and sister kind of bonding...

The Jumbo Palace as seen hazy from afar.

A Millionaire's Club. One of those yachts belong to HK superstar Jacky Chan, but I don't know which. For now, my eyes are glued on this maroon beauty.

Glad wrap!

3rd stopover: A jewelry factory also in Aberdeen.

I'm at a total lost inside a jewelry store.

International award-winning accessory designs from Aberdeen Jewelry Factory Ltd.

Final Destination: At the Stanley Street Market in the south coast of Hong Kong Island

Somewhere down the road... Ghing gears up for some bargain buys

Feeling jolly and carefree :-)

When shopping at the Stanley Market, do exercise your haggling and bargaining skills.

Rest Mode. Our feet have gone sore going around different places, and comfy sneakers are our bestfriend.

Ghing and I toy around while waiting for our ride.

Stand by Geo :-)

Thank you Gray Line Tours :-)

Before capping the 2nd night off, we checked out K-11 Mall across Holiday Inn and found this whimsical fashion exhibit/installation showcasing young HK designer pieces.

Geo looks out on this romantic designer creation.

I love this armor-sleeved futuristic design.

Another design entry that perks up Geo's interest.

DAY 3

Our last day in Hong Kong. We initially planned to go to Ocean Park, but had problems with our bags and luggages. Our last frontier? Another shopping discovery at Citygate Outlet Mall in Tung Chung before heading to the airport for our flight back to Manila...

My 3rd & Final Look of the Day: Sweater boy meets skater boy. Sweat shirt with printed sleeves by 21 Men; Sweat pants by H&M; Sneakers by Adidas Originals; and Cap, a gift to me by George.

Geo opts for top-to-bottom super sporty getup made interesting with shorts over leggings. Football shirt by Androgyne; Gray cotton shorts by Topman; Black tights by H&M; Athletic trainers by Reebok.

Ghing keeps it simple & comfy since we're also heading back home later that day. Hooded jacket by H&M; Floral top by RDS; Black leggings by The SM Store; Boots by Forever 21.

Ate Ghing cuddles her brother Geo while we wait for the MTR train to arrive.

A very happy Geo :-)

Ghing flashes a smile while going down on a subway escalator.

My usual (but unaware) taray look :-)

Harutan galore at Tsing Yi subway station.

A picture of happy faces ;-)

Me and Giging for last-minute shopping at Citygate Outlet Mall.

Finally, very happy and contented with our additional pasalubong & personal purchases!

A Happy Chinese New Year to all!

It's been a week since we left Hong Kong, and we still crave for more! Seeing these pictures, who can say that only slim, model-esque bloggers can do their fashion feature? If you're adventurous, willing, style-savvy and confident, there's no stopping us heavyweights from formulating our own set of looks.  

For those who plan to go shopping in HK, we recommend that you check out IT store (my personal favorite) at Silvercord in Tsim Sha Tsui, which is a multi-brand fashion house with cutting edge fashion labels from around the globe (e.g. Comme de Garcons, Martin Margiela, Jeremy Scott x Adidas, Doc Marten's, Isabel Marant, etc.) under one roof. D-Mop and Mixtra are another go-to stores, which we found at K-11 Mall near Holiday Inn along Nathan Road (with brands like Puma, Nike, Adidas SLVR, Giuseppe Zanotti, etc.). D-Mop and IT have outlets at Citygate Mall in Tung Chung, too. Speaking of Citygate, you'll also find a lot of branded outlet stores from Armani to DVF to DKNY to Calvin Klein to Y-3 to Nike to Esprit and so on. Then there's Harbour City at Tsim Sha Tsui where you can find a lot of high-end fashion labels (from Chanel to Louis Vuitton to Gucci to Versace to Ermenigildo Zegna to Chloe to Fendi to Tod's to Costume National to Alexander Wang, etc.). Also check out Sasa in just about every corner of Tsim Sha Tsui for beauty products and bottled perfumes at amazing lower prices. For cheaper fashion finds, there are street markets in Mongkok and Stanley that we visited, but personally, I'd prefer shopping in Divisoria where I can understand the salespeople more and haggle as much as I can.

We really heart HK. See you again hopefully soon! :-)