In-Demand Denim: Defacto Industry

Whether you like them straight, skinny, bootcut or anything in between, Defacto Industry has a pair for you.

Defacto Industry ensures its customers custom-made, great-fitting jeans (in no more than 7 days, at that!) They are going to let you choose the cut, fabric, thread colors, style and pocket design. Oh, and it doesn't end there. According to their site, you can even suggest any other things that you want to add to the design of your jeans, and if they can do it, you'll get your wish.

photo credit: http://defactory.multiply.com

According to Defacto Industry, all of their jeans have the "Base Price" of 1500Php. It can go higher, I suppose, because they told me that "only the design would dictate the price."

Here are some of my picks. The Silver Jeans above, sold for 1500Php, is a very eye-catching pair. Just don't overdo it. Wear it with a top, bag and heels that are NOT shiny. You don't want to look like a walking disco ball, do you?

photo credit: http://defactory.multiply.com

Show your little music library some love. Their iPOD Engineered Jeans are called such because of the special iPOD pocket on the side and the fact that it's, well, engineered. It's made of black denim and has a metallic finish. Very cool indeed.

Engineered Jeans go for 2700Php, but you'll have to request for the price of the iPOD version.

Shine in your very own metallic denims at a party and you will surely stand out.

You can find Defacto Industry at V8 Indie Boutique, Unit 112 G/F Mile Long Building, Amorsolo corner Herrera St., Legazpi Village, Makati. They're open from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and by appointment on Saturdays.

For more information, log on to their Multiply account where they also have photos of their designs.

The CityLifeStylist

Raiding Irene's Closet

I have been trying to find time to check out the shops at Power Plant's Archaeology wing (formerly called the Independent Lifestyles Section) for the longest time, and one of the stores that I had been looking forward to visit is Irene's Closet. Finally, during a short trip to the mall last week, I was able to step into Irene's little world of whimsy.

Irene's Closet is a quaint boutique owned by Irene Pineda. Here you can find clothes, accessories, bags, shoes and even cute outfits for dogs that are all far from the ordinary. To my surprise, we bumped into my mom's friend, Tessa De Guzman, who turned out to be a co-owner of Whipped Tee Couture, which has its own space in the boutique. Whipped is a line of one-of-a-kind, reinvented vintage tees that already come with their own accessories.

Each Whipped tee comes not only with accessories, but also with a story behind every vintage shirt. This makes them even more fun and interesting -- definitely some great conversation pieces! That explains the larger-than-usual tags.

Whipped also offers separate accessories, such as necklaces, earrings and retro eyewear.

Talk about multifunctional. These pendants will surely add spunk to any outfit and help you strum those strings, as well! The guitar pick necklaces will definitely catch the music lover's, the musician's and the frustrated gitarista's eyes. They sure caught mine! A girl can dream, right? (Or maybe I should just stick to writing and just wear one of those as an accessory!)

Among the different funky sunglasses at the store, my favorite is this pair of gold aviators, which I now regret not buying because they're a steal at 550Php! Even my brother loved it. (He was at the arcade when we checked out the store and only saw them in the pictures, but plans to go back and get them!) Guess we'll just see who can get to Power Plant again first. ;-)

Irene's Closet sure is one cool place to step into.

The CityLifeStylist

Supplies, Supplies!

I wasn't able to post anything yesterday because I had tons of things to do (well, more than usual) and I didn't want to post anything just for the sake of it. School is just around the corner and, aside from my academics, I have a lot of org responsibilites, too. I will continue updating my blog, though; if not everyday, perhaps every other day, so please do check in for updates! ;-)

Now that I have switched back from blog addict-slash-summer bum to schoolworkaholic mode, I'm getting myself extra-organized. The following supplies have helped me in doing things more efficiently. This will surely be a feast for the eyes for O.C. people like moi!

Thanks to my fellow org officers and very good amigas Faye and Lica for this wonderful idea. Each of our obsessive-compulsiveness has rubbed off on each other, making us even more O.C. than before!

This may look like just another binder to you, but wait and see. Presenting... my very own low tech mobile office:

Oh, yes. Above are pictures of what's inside the unassuming little binder. It has a clear plastic cover in front where you can insert notes. There is a pocket at the back of the cover where you can put an envelope for more loose notes, pens, paper clips and whatnot. You can have your Post-its on the pocket, as well.

You can have both notebook and clearbook refills ring-bound on the right. How convenient is that?! We had to cut through some of the punch holes of the notebook refills, though, because we couldn't find any that were compatible with our big binders.

I got most of the supplies from National Bookstore. Below is the price list:

1. Jeret Binder - 120Php

2. Kingtrade Enterprises Clear Sheet Protector (10 pieces, size A4) - 29.50Php

3. Acryl Ring Notes Loose Leaf Notebook Refills (50 leaves) - 40Php

4. Post-it Notes - about 40Php

5. Short brown envelope - c/o our Associate Dean for Student Affairs :-)

You can even make your binder more personalized. Take the cue from my friend Faye and insert photos inside the cover flap. There is so much more you can do to make it your own. Note-taking and file-classifying have never been more exciting!

I am such a geek, I know. I just might rub off the ka-O.C.-han on you, too. ;-)

The CityLifeStylist

Quick Update: Shopping Destinations

I just came home from the Power Plant Mall. I haven't been there in AGES since we live in a galaxy far, far away from Makati. I wasn't able to look around much, though, because we were going to have dinner with my grandparents, but I managed to gather a lot of material for my blog and shop a little bit in the former Independent Lifestyles Section, now known as the Archaeology wing. I've also done a little research in the past few days, so I'm here to share a quick update.

Here are some bits of useful shopping information:

1. Rafē in Makati

This is probably a bit too late already, since my post on Rafē bags was posted early April, but for those who have been living under a rock (or those who live far from Makati, like yours truly) I'll just post it anyway. Rafē is available at Rustan's Makati and Mix at Greenbelt. You will fall in love with his luxury bags that exude relaxed chicness.

2. Aranaz Bag Reservations

photo credit: http://aminava.blogspot.com

The big transparent tote with additional pouches from the new Aranaz bag collection (above) is not available at the Power Plant branch yet. I asked about it and they said it's still "in the making" but you can have a bag reserved. I didn't reserve one just yet but I left my contact details so that they can inform me once the new design arrives. It's best to see the bag first before making any reservations because it might only look nice in photos (or in this case, in the sketch.) The bags available in the store were all gorgeous, though. Too bad I already went bag shopping recently. Perhaps I should write for Kikay Exchange more often for extra shopping moolah (wink, wink!)

3. Team Manila to Open in Ayala Trinoma

After months and months of pining for Team Manila tees, I finally got my hands on a few. I asked them if they had any other branches, and they told me that they will be having one at the newly-opened Ayala Trinoma Mall which is located right across SM North EDSA. Great news for Team Manila lovers in QC!

For now, you're going to have to take that long ride to Power Plant to check out the goods, but I'm telling you: it's definitely worth it! You can call them to check the availability of shirt designs and sizes at 895-7864.

4. Sale Alert: Chocolate

Chocolate Clothing Company is at it again, giving away big discounts (50%-70% off) to Chocolate lovers. It won't be at any of their mall branches, though. I received an e-flyer that included the following details: The big sale is at Chocolate’s warehouse, located at 25 S. Santos Street, Sto. Rosario, Buting, Pasig City. You may call any of the following numbers for more information: 0917-823-9047, 0922-519-1766, 643-4331, 643-6993 to 94 and 641-5843. Oh, and they accept credit cards and offer free valet parking!

5. Sale Alert: House of Laurel

Rajo Laurel is giving us a treat. He is having his Birthday Sale until the end of May. Items from House of Laurel's past collection will be marked down from 25%-90% off! You still have a few more days to catch it!

House of Laurel is located at 6013 J. Villena corner Manalac St., Brgy. Poblacion, Makati City.

That's it for now. I've got an interesting entry coming up on multifunctional, funky accessories and more quirky clothes from a very chic shop at Power Plant.

Till then, paalam!

The CityLifeStylist

Style IDOL: Jordin Sparks

photo credit: http://news.yahoo.com

America has chosen Jordin Sparks to be their sixth American Idol, but there's one more thing that Jordin should be known for aside from her singing: her fashion sense.

photo credit: http://tv.yahoo.com

Being on AI has made Jordin Sparks a household name not only in the US but all over the world. Her bubbly personality and bright smile are infectious. She has that sincere, cheerful and youthful charisma that keeps you glued to the TV screen whenever she performs. In addition to that, she always looks smashing. She knows what looks good on her and is comfortable in her own skin.

Above are two of Jordin's more casual outfits. Her jeans are not too tight and not too loose which makes them just about perfect. I love how she cinched her waist in both outfits, in the first photo with the tie-waist top and in the second with the belt.

She is also very lucky to have her bone structure, which makes her look great with curly, straight or even wavy hair.

photo credit: http://tv.yahoo.com

She can wear (and look amazing in) practically anything -- from jeans to short dresses and gowns. Above, she flaunts her curves in short and sweet strappy dresses.

The empire waist dress on the left is very easy to wear. I love empire tops and dresses because you won't have to worry about your abs (or lack thereof) and you can move freely. The one in the middle looks like it was just draped over her and it falls nicely on her curves. The jewel-toned dress also fits her just right.

photo credit: www.americanidol.com

Jordin is statuesque. She looks beautiful and radiant in the gold and orange gown above, my favorite among the gowns she wore on the show. The colors complement her skin tone. Fabbity-fab-fab!



As I have said before, confidence is key. Jordin carries herself gracefully. She maintains her poise and has a lot of spunk at the same time. Youthful elegance is what I'll call it.

Jordin Sparks' great voice, magnetic personality and kickass style are the makings of a superstar. She has a big career ahead of her, and she can definitely serve as a positive role model for the youth.

I'm happy that she won!

The CityLifeStylist

Fashion TV

I already featured The O.C. stars Mischa Barton and Rachel Bilson in a previous entry. Here, I am going to share my favorites from the different fabulous wardrobes of other TV celebrities from some of the most popular shows on the tube.

photo credit: http://shsd.k12.ar.us/SHHS/CREATORS/creators06/lisalodholtzspersonalwebpage/pictures/One%20Tree%20Hill/OneTreeHill-Cast-03s.jpg

The cast members of One Tree Hill are some of the biggest stars on the small screen. Sometimes, however, I feel as if watching a single episode can already give me a drama overdose. It's a good thing that the cast has a pretty cool wardrobe that distracts me from all the heavy emotions from time to time.

photo credit: www.hilarie-burton.com

The on-and-off friendship thing may have become quite tiring, but among the Tree Hill ladies, the wardrobes I like best are those of Brooke (played by Sophia Bush) and Peyton (Hilarie Burton).

photo credits: www.onetreehillonline.com and www.hilarie-burton.com

I always look forward to seeing Peyton's jackets. She sports leather and denim jackets as well as cotton hoodies over funky shirts or basic tops and jeans. These outfits would normally give a "tough chick" vibe, but on Peyton, it looks different because of her slender frame and classic features. You can catch her in a dress occasionally, too, and she always looks nice. I still love her casual look, though.

I like her better with curly hair, too. She shouldn't have straightened it.

photo credit: http://onetreehillweb.net

With a budding career in fashion design on the show, Brooke is, without a doubt, a great dresser. Her outfits, however, can be a bit too revealing sometimes. It's always best to leave something to the imagination.

In the photos above, however, the necklines on the dress and the tops may show a little cleavage, but the way she carries the outfits make them look far from indecent. They're feminine and sweet with just the right amount of sexiness to be va va voom.

photo credit: www.cwtv.com

Veronica Mars (Kristen Bell) is another cool chick. What truly inspired this entry was seeing Veronica's eyeshadow in an episode (Season 3, Episode #7: Of Vice and Men). Bronze eyeshadow looked great on her lids, giving her a more intense look.

In the pictures above, however, you will find what I think is her best makeup look -- glowing and natural with a little bit of red lipstick and gloss.

photo credit: www.beyondhollywood.com

Veronica looks stunning in anything -- from a rugged look with a tee, jeans, leather jacket and belt to a red ruffled polka-dot dress. She gives off the same vibe in every outfit, though. Perhaps it's because of her character's very strong personality on the show. Veronica Mars is like Nancy Drew, all grown up -- braver, tougher and a lot more fashionable.

With those wardrobes, they sure are lucky stars!

The CityLifeStylist

Street Spotting: Ispooting!

Ispooting translates to "sporting," as in "sporting the latest fashion," in old Filipino slang. My grandparents would say, "Ispooting ka, ah! (You look sporting, ah!)" whenever they see me in fashionista mode (which is practically everyday, minus some of my uniform-clad school days.) I would say the same thing about the many fashionable Pinoys in the Philippines.

You can run into very stylish people in Manila everyday. Fashion is something Filipinos celebrate and can truly enjoy because clothes are accessible even to "the masses" because of tiangges (bazaars) and the ukay-ukay (thrift shops) that sell brand new and secondhand clothes, respectively, (from classic to trendy pieces, at that!) for very low prices.

It would be great to be able to take pictures of our local fashionistas -- both men and women -- and showcase their diverse individual styles. I don't know if I'll ever have the guts to go up to people and ask if I can take their picture, though. For now, I'm just going to count on and hope for more updates from one of my fave blogs to date: Manila Style.

Snapshots from Manila Style

(http://mnlstyl.blogspot.com)

photo credit: http://mnlstyl.blogspot.com

Casual Cool. These three (above) take the white t-shirt to a whole new level. The trusty tee-and-jeans combination sure doesn't look plain on them. Can't you just feel the personality coming through? It might be the hair, it might be the accessories, or it just might be because they know they look good in anything. Confidence is key!

photo credit: http://mnlstyl.blogspot.com

He's No Nerd. Model Robby Mananquil looks far from nerdy in this outfit. I'm loving the phrase quirky chic now, and I'd like to describe his style as that. Oh, and can I just add that it's utterly rad?

photo credit: http://mnlstyl.blogspot.com

Making a Statement. Otto proudly sports his Proud Race shirt. I'd love to have my very own statement tee. Somebody think of a catchy phrase with "CityLifeStylist" in it! Ooh. I want to put handcuffs on my jeans, too. He has just made it to my list of style icons.

I believe that the person behind Manila Style is Cecile Zamora, who is also the blogger behind Chuvaness. More importantly, Ms. Zamora is a fashion designer and one of the ladies behind Store for all Seasons. (She opened the boutique in October 2004 with fellow designer Mich Dulce. Source: www.theguidon.com)

I'm tempted to post more photos, but I don't want to look like a Manila Style blog extension! For more pics, check out http://mnlstyl.blogspot.com.

Ispooting!!!

The CityLifeStylist

Get Happy Feet

You are going to be dancing like Mumble from Happy Feet after you've tried this quick and easy treat for your feet. (Well, you might. Hehe.)

We all love our flipflops, and I know many of us have been living in them WAY before the beginning of the summer season. Unless you've been spending a lot of time with your feet in the sand, you might not have done a lot of exfoliating lately.

Lucky for you, I am going to share my little home spa tricks that would guarantee you some squeaky-clean, happy feet in no time.

photo credit: www.zuckermanpharmacy.com

I have tried different foot scrubs, but St. Ives Moisturizing Hand and Foot Scrub is still my favorite because it exfoliates without irritating your skin. It is a gentle scrub, but it's also strong enough to get rid of rough spots and slough off dead skin cells. It'll make your skin soft and smooth with its moisturizing formula, as well.

The other less expensive products that I've tested didn't exfoliate my skin completely and had more moisturizing elements, while others were too harsh on my skin. The St. Ives scrub was just right. Apply the scrub to wet skin in a firm, circular motion.

photo credit: www.zuckermanpharmacy.com

Even though the St. Ives scrub already exfoliates and moisturizes my skin at the same time, I still like washing them with Johnson's Baby Milk Bath after using the scrub. It makes my feet feel softer and smoother and smell even better!

Both products are available at select Mercury Drug and Watson's branches, as well as some supermarkets (Rustan's, Cherry Foodarama) and department stores (SM, Robinsons Galleria).

Nice, clean feet are always attractive for all genders and ages, so make sure you keep yours neat all the time!

The CityLifeStylist

Style Icon: Isabella Sevilla

Isabella Sevilla is one heck of a fashionista.

Isa, as we fondly call her, is the Queen of Quirky Chic. Describing her style is far from easy, but in an attempt to do so, I can say that it is a mix of simplicity, spunk and eccentricity that not everybody can pull off.

photo credit: www.friendster.com

Tank tops probably occupy the most space in her closet since she seems to have tons of them. She either wears one tank top alone, or layers two of them to mix up her look. She pairs them with a pair of dark denims, whether loose or skinny. Isa is one of the few girls I know who can make loose jeans look sexy – and it’s not just because of her God-given slim frame – she has the personality that enables her to carry them well.

She completes her outfit with flipflops, sneakers or flat sandals, which never look plain on her.

photo credit: www.friendster.com

Isa is a very sweet girl who is extremely friendly. She is very easy to get along with, which is probably why she has so many friends. She always tries to make the people around her feel comfortable and manages to put smiles on everybody’s faces. There have been countless times when I witnessed Isa bring somebody’s confidence level up. She is one of the kindest, most caring people I know.

Her knack for making something simple into something absolutely fabulous can be seen in the photo above. Her blue one-shoulder top and layered beaded necklaces create the perfect boho look. The striped beanie is adorable, too! I love how she kept her bangs out instead of stuffing them inside.

photo credit: www.multiply.com

You can find individuality in Isa’s style. She also has this androgynous appeal that shows in how she can pull off different outfits, whether they’re very feminine and sweet or a bit masculine and rugged.

Above, she wears a crisp white button-down shirt and olive green trousers over her bikini. Everybody else could be wearing sundresses and she would still be the sexiest girl in the room! (And I’m not saying that just because it’s her birthday! ;>)

I am very proud to have Isa as my friend. With this entry, I bet she’ll serve as an inspiration to even more people all over the world.

Happy Birthday, Isa!

Therese a.k.a. The CityLifeStylist

Style Icon: Lindsay Lohan

Lindsay Lohan may not be the perfect role model for teenage girls -- or for anyone, for that matter -- but you cannot deny her sense of style. This party girl may have gotten into a lot of trouble, but most of the time, she's safe from the fashion police.

photo credit: www.celebworld.org

I love Lindsay's leather jacket. It makes her otherwise plain outfit look fierce. The silver heels also add a touch of glam to her cotton top-and-jeans combo.

photo credit: www.celebworld.org

Metallic is still in, ladies, and Lindsay rocks silver in sunglasses, a jacket and shoes. Without the jacket, her teensy-weensy dress might be a bit too revealing. I love the whole outfit, though. It's sexy, chic and simply adorable.

photo credit: www.celebworld.org

Lindsay seems to love ballet flats! They're perfect when you're always on-the-go, especially when you've forgotten to reapply polish on your toenails. Ballet flats can also be the perfect alternative to your comfy flipflops once school starts, (since many colleges in the Philippines don't allow students to wear rubber slippers in campus.)

photo credit: www.celebworld.org

Lindsay balances out this pair of short shorts with a loose embroidered top. Try this for a feminine and sexy look.

photo credit: www.celebworld.org

LL also seems to be a fan of high-heeled patent leather mary janes, which look great with black stockings (although it's too hot in the Philippines for those.) Her black and white Chanel dress (above, on the left) is short and sweet. The metallic dress on the right screams diva! Way to make a grand entrance in a short, shiny number.

The CityLifeStylist