The CityLifeStylist

Taking Up Anthropologie

2012-02-11T01:37:00.000+08:00

photo credit: www.anthropologie.com

I wonder why it's so difficult to find nice casual dresses in classic cuts, neutral tones, and quality fabrics in Manila. Even the current roster of foreign high street stores rarely offer beautiful, sophisticated pieces that can stand the test of time, season after season. I wish we had Anthropologie here!

The CityLifeStylist

Sperry Cool

2012-02-10T23:50:00.000+08:00

photo credit: Sperry Top-Sider

The nautical feel of the classic Sperry Top-Sider is just too cool.

Perfect for guys who like it slick but laid-back, the iconic shoe brand has released a new collection in collaboration with designer Scott Sternberg of Band of Outsiders. The timeless boat shoe styles are made with quality suede and wool materials.

In Manila, the limited edition Band of Outsiders for Sperry Top-Sider collection is exclusively available at Secret Fresh at the Ronac Art Center. You can also find the rest of the Sperry Top-Sider lines at Shoe Salon branches, HideOut in Greenbelt 5, Complex Lifestyle Store in Eastwood Mall, Ayala Town Center, Ayala Center Cebu, Rustans, select department stores, and its new store in TriNoma.

For more information, visit the Sperry Top-Sider Facebook page.

The CityLifeStylist

Sweet Thrills

2012-02-08T23:45:00.001+08:00

photo credit: AIJC/Paul Alaras (middle and bottom photos)

Thanks to my post-holiday/post-thesis weight gain, I only have a few decent (read: double chin-free) photos from my master's graduation! But how could I complain? I'm finally done with my MA!

I should have more time to blog and lounge around now, but alas, new projects at work have kept my hands full. Good thing I've got my chocolate stash to keep me sane, especially with my new favorite addition: Sea Salt Caramel in Dark Chocolate from Cacao. For only 99 pesos per 100 grams, I was very pleasantly surprised after my first bite. With that price, I wasn't expecting them to be so amazing. For lovers of chewy salted caramel and dark chocolate, this is definitely a cheap thrill!

(Going back to that healthy diet soon, though, I swear! But how could I stick to it with such delectable treats within reach? Hee.)

The CityLifeStylist

Retro Boyfriend Shirt

2012-01-14T14:00:00.000+08:00

Who: Mommy dearest at Eastwood Mall rocking the retro qiana button-down her "boyfriend" (Daddy!) wore to his senior prom in 1976!

The Look: A retro, graphic print shirt with rolled-up sleeves, layered with metallic necklaces and paired with comfy black leggings and peep-toe ankle-strap flatforms!

I've always been inspired by my mom's stellar style, and I was ecstatic when I finally got to raid her closet when I entered college. Until now, whenever somebody compliments my clothes, more than half the time my response would be, "Thanks! They're my mom's!"

The CityLifeStylist

MEGA's Women to Watch 2012

2012-01-08T00:10:00.000+08:00

photo credit: MEGA

Beneath the controversial cover are my interviews with six of the ten beautiful, bright and talented ladies who made it to MEGA's Women to Watch for 2012--Shamcey Supsup, Cong. Aliah Dimaporo, Sarah Lahbati, Julia Montes, Noelle Llave and Samantha Gomez.

Emi Jorge, Chelsea Robato, Zia Quizon and Mercedes Cabral, interviewed by Yvette Tan, round up the powerhouse list.

Now out on newsstands.

The CityLifeStylist

Sale Alerts: January 2012 Edition

2012-01-05T14:27:00.001+08:00

For those of you who prioritized presents for loved ones during the holidays, and who are dying to update your wardrobe for 2012, now is the time to treat yourselves. Sale's on at Adora, Topshop and Zara, y'all! Here's the list of branches:

Adora
Greenbelt 5

Topshop
TriNoma, Power Plant Mall, Shangri-La Plaza Mall, Mall of Asia, Greenbelt 3, Bonifacio High Street, Alabang Town Center, The Podium, Ayala Center Cebu, Robinsons Midtown Ermita (New Wing) and Robinsons Galleria

Zara

TriNoma, Power Plant Mall, Glorietta 3, Shangri-La Plaza Mall, Mall of Asia, and Greenbelt 5

Happy shopping!

The CityLifeStylist

Gearing Up for a Great 2012

2012-01-04T20:51:00.000+08:00

It's very early into the year but 2012 is already looking bright and downright exciting! I was born in '88, which means the Year of the Dragon is my year, and I can see that it's going to be very, very busy. My final master's thesis defense is scheduled for next week, and plans are brewing for yet further studies. I'm getting ready to take on overlapping communication research projects for development at work, which I know I'll never get tired of doing. I also look forward to writing for magazines again, which I've actually started with this month's issue of MEGA (please grab a copy!)

While my plate is full to the brim, I still aim to keep my baby updated monthly. Stay tuned for more fun reads on fashion, lifestyle and beauty on The CityLifeStylist!

Let's gear up for a great 2012!

The CityLifeStylist

P.S. For more regular updates, check out The CityLifeStylist's Tumblelog!

Chill Holiday Chic

2011-12-27T18:10:00.000+08:00

Who: My youngest aunt Trixie (who's practically just like an older sister to me!) fresh from London at our annual Christmas reunion

The Look: She donned a posh and laid-back pairing of blacks and whites, with a lacy tank top, a flowy cover-up, shorts, and printed floral peep-toe heels following the classic color palette. Too bad I didn't get to take a photo of the sheer lace details at the back of her cover-up, but I love how it matched her tank top and shoes! She kept accessories at a minimum, with a black elephant pendant as centerpiece.

Easy sophistication is always in season!

NOTE: All City Streets photos are posted with permission from the subjects

The CityLifeStylist

Help Victims of Tropical Storm Sendong

2011-12-19T11:13:00.001+08:00

Tropical Storm Sendong (international name: Washi) brought 12straight hours of devastating rains Friday night, causing flash floods andlandslides that left Mindanao, Philippines with over 700 dead, hundreds more missing, and over35,000 people displaced from their homes, according to the latest reports from thePhilippine Red Cross and the Philippine Daily Inquirer. Among the most affectedareas are Cagayan De Oro, Iligan City, Bukidnon,Negros Oriental, Lanao del Norte, Compostela Valley, Zamboangadel Norte and Surigao del Sur.

In addition to offering our prayers, there are more ways tohelp. You may coordinate with the following for your donations:

1. Philippine Red Cross

The Philippine Red Cross is appealing for immediate cash assistance tosupport its relief and recovery efforts. Get instructions for online donationsand other ways to donate from the PRC website.

2. Smart Communications, Inc.

Smartsubscribers can send monetary donations to the Philippine Red Cross throughtext. To donate, text RED (amount) to 4143. Valid donation amounts forSmart are 10, 25, 50, 100, 300, 500 and 1000. These will be charged to thesubscriber’s prepaid load or postpaid bill.

Smart Money users can also transfer funds using their mobilephones to the official Baha Fund account. Log on to the Smart Communications, Inc. Facebook page for the account number and more details.

3. Globe Telecom

Globe subscribers can also send donations via SMS. Text RED (amount) to 2899. Valid donation amounts for Globe are 5, 25, 50, 100,300, 500 and 1000 pesos.

Donations can also be sent via GCASH. Check out the Globe Telecom Facebook page for more information.

4. GMA Kapuso Foundation

Support Operation Bayanihan: Relief Operation for Victims ofFlashfloods in Mindanao.

According to GMA, following rescue operations of thegovernment, relief goods from Manila, Cebu and Davao are beingtransported to Cagayan de Oro and other affected areas. Donations in kind suchas bottled water, rice, instant noodles, clothes and medicines can be delivereddirectly to the GMA Kapuso Foundation repacking site: Capitol University Gym,Corrales Extension, Cagayan de Oro City. Contact Armi Sobremisana at088-8577933 or 0919-5749835.

Cash and material donations can also be dropped off at theGMA Kapuso Foundation, 2^nd Floor, Kapuso Center, GMA 7,EDSA Diliman, Quezon City. You mayalso call their hotline numbers (02) 928-4299 or (02) 928-9351.

Cash donations can be deposited to Metrobank, UCPB andCebuana Lhuiller branches as well. Log on to the Unang Hirit Facebook page for the account numbers and more details.

5. TV5 Kapatid Foundation

Send donations in kind such as food, clothing, utensils, water containers, blankets, mats and medicines to the News5 Aksyon Center, TV5 Office, San Bartolome, Novaliches, Quezon City. For inquiries, call the News5 Aksyon Center hotline, (02) 938-6393. For cash donations, log on to the InterAksyon website for the BDO and BPI bank account numbers.

6. ABS-CBN Foundation, Inc.

Sagip Kapamilya also welcomes donations in cash and in kind.

You may send food items like rice, noodles, canned goods, biscuits, coffee and sugar, as well as clothes, blankets, mats and medicines to Sagip Kapamilya, ABS-CBN Foundation, Inc., Mother Ignacia cor. Eugenio Lopez St., Diliman, Quezon City.

For instructions on how to send cash donations, log on to the ANC 24/7 Facebook page.

7. Gawad Kalinga

Gawad Kalinga has launched Operation Walang Iwanan Mindanao. Fordonations in kind, GK is preparing food packs. Each food pack contains the following:

· Three kilos of rice

· Four cans of sardines

· Five packs of noodles

· Coffee

· Sugar

To find out where to send cash and food donations, log on tothe Gawad Kalinga website.

Donating slippers and other kinds of basic footwear would be good, too, as I read on Twitter that many of the people displaced are barefoot. They also need bath and laundry soaps, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and feminine napkins.

The CityLifeStylist

Last-Minute Christmas Shopping Guide 2011

2011-12-18T16:10:00.000+08:00

I've been really busy the past few weeks, and I can't believe there's barely a week left till Christmas! I already spent my entire Saturday hunting for the perfect gifts for my loved ones but I'm not even done yet. While hopping from one mall to the next, however, I was able to come up with a list of gift ideas that I hope can help my fellow last-minute shoppers.

photo credit: MUJI Philippines

Pretty much everything you'll ever need is available at MUJI. Find clothes, bags, shoes, furniture, home decor, food, and all sorts of supplies for school, the home, or the workplace. MUJI's products are perfect for family and friends who like classic, minimalist designs.

photo credit: QUIRKS Philippines

For those who like fun, extraordinary things, QUIRKS offers a variety of useful kooky knickknacks like (cassette!) tape dispensers, undercover tablet sleeves and mighty wallets.

photo credit: www.cwtv.com and www.instyle.co.uk

Your glam girlfriends might like accessories that would add sparkle to their holiday outfits! Forever21 and stalls at the Greenhills Shopping Center like Girl Shoppe have a wide variety of rings, earrings, necklaces and bangles that can rival those of Gossip Girl's Rhodes ladies. Girl Shoppe also has pretty silk turbans (like Carrie Bradshaw's in SATC2) and hair accessories such as fascinators and clips.

photo credit: adidas Philippines

Gifts with a touch of Filipino flavor are great for balikbayan buddies and relatives. Get them neat Pinoy presents like jackets and tees in the Philippine flag's trademark colors from the adidas Philippine Range collection.

photo credit: www.tahananbooks.com

The grammar police would be in for a hilarious treat with this series illustrated by Elbert Or. Just found out that Tahanan Books has released I Am Herewith Enclose, the sequel to The More the Manyer! and Without Further Adieu. They're available at National Bookstore, but I also spotted a few copies at the ECHOStore, Serendra Piazza.

photo credit: www.theoandphilo.com

Chocolate lovers would enjoy Theo & Philo Artisan Chocolates. My personal favorite is the Labuyo, a dark chocolate bar with siling labuyo (chili)! Other unusual bars are Ginger, Calamansi, and Green Mango & Salt, but there are also traditional ones like Dark Chocolate, Milk Chocolate and Barako. Check out the Theo & Philo website and Facebook page for information about their holiday gift packages.

I highly advise shopping alone and taking the MRT or the LRT if possible, instead of driving or taking a cab/jeepney. Traffic is crazy, and taxi lines are loooong, people.

Good luck and happy shopping!

The CityLifeStylist

Rice and Shine!

2011-12-05T19:10:00.000+08:00

A mainstay in local cuisine, rice is something many Filipinos claim they couldn't live without. Here are some yummy variations of the Pinoy staple.

photo credit: Joseph Interior

Harvest Rice

Casa Verde, The Terraces, Ayala Center Cebu

Don't judge Casa Verde's Harvest Rice by its simple appearance. It may seem like your average fried rice, but once you take a bite, you'll find out why this flavorful side dish makes the perfect companion for the restaurant's famous baked pork ribs. The Harvest Rice pleases the palette without upstaging the main course.

Yang Chow Fried Rice

North Park, TriNoma Mall, Quezon City

I've tried different restaurants' takes on Yang Chow, but North Park's version is by far one of my favorites. More expensive Chinese restos may similarly offer generous amounts of veggies, pork, scrambled egg, and shrimps, but what usually puts me off is the excess oiliness. This, however, is just right. One serving is good for two.

Saffron Rice

Shomal Kebabs and Curries by Hossein, TriNoma Mall, Quezon City

Another blogger, Rochelle Sy Chua, said she could have this without anything else and still be satisfied, and I completely agree! The combination of the saffron and the rice with hints of butter was delicious. Plus, the long grain rice was delightfully fluffy, with a firm but chewy texture. I wish I could have this with every meal!

The CityLifeStylist

Mad for Mad Mark's

2011-11-19T03:10:00.001+08:00

Last weekend, I had the best sandwich experience ever. I was never a big fan of sandwiches until I discovered Mad Mark's Man Sandwich and Frozen Desserts.

I had no idea what I was in for. Upon entering the restaurant, I immediately fell in love with its minimalist charm and warm, friendly atmosphere. My attention was redirected to the big, bold letters behind the counter, and despite the small menu, I found it difficult to choose. There were the Man Sandwiches that looked divine on the tables I passed, but I was dying to try the sumptuous-looking Zing Wings and fries as well. It was also tempting to have the dessert come first, with all the homemade ice cream flavors calling out to my sweet tooth.

Lumberjack
photo credit: Joseph Interior

Good thing I was dining with friends. We all got to try the Lumberjack (without cheese for me), which is packed with certified Angus beef, mushrooms and caramelized onions, and the Mariner, a freshwater fish fillet with Mad Mark's house mariner sauce.

Mariner
photo credit: Joseph Interior

Both tasted fresh and delicious from the crisp buttered Italian bread to the flavorful fillings. Each sandwich was a juicy, mouthwatering mouthful. (Yes, they're yummy and the servings are huge!) The difference between the two is that the Mariner is a little lighter, but still very tasty, while the Lumberjack is heavier, which is great for bigger appetites and meat lovers.

While I managed to avoid any allergic reaction from the sandwiches, I wasn't able to have much of the Herb Parmesan Fries, which my friends were crazy about. I had a taste after brushing off the cheese, and it was really, really good. They say I won't be able to tell exactly how good it is without Parmesan, though, so you better just see for yourself!

Didn't get to take a photo of the Zing Wings, which I liked because they had a nice, hot kick that was not too overwhelming. The Raspberry Cold Tea was also a delight. It went well with everything we ordered.

We were already full so we waited a few minutes before ordering some ice cream. After trying the Javan Hot Chocolate, Salted Sumatra, Madagascar Vanilla Bean and Half Baked Madagascar, I was glad we didn't skip dessert. What's great about their homemade frozen concoctions is that they're made without scrimping on ingredients. The first two are my personal favorites.

I'm definitely coming back for more! Mad Mark's Man Sandwich and Frozen Desserts is open daily at 23 East Capitol Drive, Barangay Kapitolyo, Pasig City. Check out its Facebook page for more information.

The CityLifeStylist

Country Club Khaki

2011-11-17T00:10:00.000+08:00

photo credit: www.orlybeauty.com.au and www.pinkative.com

I've been waiting for Orly's Country Club Khaki to get back in stock for months! At first I thought the grayish beige (greige!) shade would look dull on my nails, but it actually exudes a more sophisticated, but understated, feel. Plus, it goes perfectly with my entire wardrobe.

Pick up a bottle at Landmark Trinoma before stocks disappear again!

The CityLifeStylist

Style Note No. 10

2011-11-16T00:10:00.007+08:00

(Beige and blue dresses, pussy bow blouse, and cocktail ring, www.topshop.com; red skirt, www.seeninseen.com; clutches, necklace and earrings, www.net-a-porter.com)

The holidays are fast approaching and it's easy to get caught up in the shopping frenzy while hunting for great new pieces for the season. These days, however, practicality is key. You can look good without breaking the bank for, say, a dress that's so trendy and memorable that you wouldn't feel like wearing it again. Why not use timeless pieces--old or new--as a canvas, and "paint" them with a few bold or sparkly accessories, or maybe a trendy piece or two? That way, it would be a lot easier to incorporate your holiday pieces into your 2012 wardrobe!

The CityLifeStylist

Carnivores with a Sweet Tooth

2011-11-15T00:30:00.001+08:00

Sampled some steaks and cool treats on my most recent trip to Mercato Centrale. My friends, boyfriend and I were surprised we actually managed to control ourselves this time--our table wasn't so full anymore, but we definitely were after all the meat and the sweets!

Rodrigo's
"Home cooked food, cooked good," read the sign. But it wasn't the tagline that got to us. These did:

The USDA Angus Beef Belly Roast...

...with the Wickedly Good Mashed Potatoes. Honestly, the latter should've been named "Wickedly Excellent"!

The sign was right. It tasted like a good home-cooked meal. The meat was very tender, though it could be more flavorful, while the smooth and buttery mashed potatoes sent us to carb heaven.

Steaks on Stick

Steaks really seemed to appeal to us that afternoon. We tried the Steaksilog and a couple sticks of Wagyu sans the rice.

I think a sauce with a spicier or tangier kick would complement the steaks even better. Fans of good ol' mushroom sauce, on the other hand, would enjoy the Pepper Mushroom Sauce. If you're looking for a heavy, tasty breakfast, the Steaksilog would definitely hit the spot.

Sebastian's Ice Cream

My friends were raving so much about the cheese ice cream with walnuts and honey (above), so even if I'm allergic to it, I can tell you that it's a must-try, along with Sebastian's Dive Bars!

The Snack Attack, my pick, was the best in my opinion. It's like salted caramel ice cream with a lot of crunch. With buttery ice cream dipped in caramel and rolled in chocolate-covered potato chips, peanut butter-covered pretzels, and honey-roasted peanuts, what more could you ask for?

I love dark chocolate and crisp butter toffee, so I thought the Butter Toffee Crunch was good, too.

The Naked Mango tasted like a frozen, perfectly ripe mango! It's quite creamy and has just the right amount of sweetness even if it's dairy-free and fat-free.

I can't wait to try the rest of Sebastian's Dive Bars. The desserts were definitely the cherry on top of this great meal. Click here to learn more about them!

The CityLifeStylist

Ice Princess

2011-11-14T22:30:00.000+08:00

Who: My cousin, figure skating champ Chloe, who was pretty as ever at our uncle's wedding

The Look: She rocked a babydoll cocktail dress in black silk and chiffon with pink details, which she paired with kitten heels and a matching purse in muted silver.

Chloe looked sweet, fresh and ladylike in her ensemble, which was complemented perfectly by her half beehive 'do--a hairstyle that's sleek and classic but fun and youthful at the same time.

photo credit: Teen Vogue

She reminded me so much of Elle Fanning, as well as Anne Hathaway's look in a Teen Vogue feature in 2004 (above).

Très chic!

NOTE: All City Streets photos are posted with permission from the subjects

The CityLifeStylist

Style Note No. 9

2011-10-22T00:10:00.005+08:00

(Lauren Conrad photos, www.outfitidentifier.com and www.kaboodle.com; red cardigan, www.debenhams.com; animal print cardigan, www.topshop.com; navy blue and beige cardigans, www.stylebop.com)

Take the cue from Lauren Conrad and transform your cardigans from mere coverups to tops by simply buttoning them up!

The CityLifeStylist

Tagaytay Food Trip

2011-10-18T00:10:00.018+08:00

Last weekend, my boyfriend took me to Tagaytay for my pre-birthday celebration. I came prepared--I took note of the addresses of all the restaurants I wanted to try, and a few that I was excited to revisit. It made deciding where to eat a lot easier. Here's the rub on the grub!

1. Manos Greek Taverna

Calamba Road, Olivarez, San Jose, Tagaytay City

It was my first time to have so much carbs in one sitting. Think pita, fries and rice!

Our favorite part of the meal was the appetizer--pita bread with Tzatziki, a yogurt dip with cucumber and onions. It was creamy and perfectly tangy, and the combination of cucumbers and onions tasted fresh and lively.

One of our main courses was the Grilled Souvlaki, sticks of skewered pork with fries, rice, calamansi and grilled tomatoes, which was okay. The meat was a little tough, and it wasn't very flavorful. The sides made it better, though, especially the juicy tomatoes. We also had the Beftekia Scaras, grilled beef patties served with fries, rice, calamansi and a small serving of corn, carrots and peas. We liked this dish because the patties were soft, thick and tasty. The crispy homemade fries were really good, too.

2. Buon Giorno

The Cliffhouse, General Emilio Aguinaldo Highway, Tagaytay City

The Cliffhouse looks beautiful and romantic especially at night! There are other restos in the area that we wanted to try, but we were craving for pasta so we picked Buon Giorno. (Yep--more carbs for dinner!)

We had one of my fave pasta dishes, Penne All'Arrabiata, which had bacon bits and spicy tomato sauce. It was excellent, but we thought it needed a bit more Tabasco. Good thing a bottle was readily available. As for the Risotto con Vedure Del Mediterraneo, we were more than satisfied. The creamy risotto with a generous mix of oven-roasted vegetables was divine.

At first, the servings seemed small, but we were already full halfway through the meal! We skipped dessert and had a couple pots of Tarragon Tea instead. The tea was deliciously soothing.

3. Diner's Bulalohan

Mendez, Tagaytay

A trip to Tagaytay would not be complete without a bowl of bulalo (beef shank soup). This restaurant is very popular for its version, and rightly so.

Out of the four bulalo places I've tried in Tagaytay, Diner's Bulalohan has, by far, the tastiest. The meat was very tender and the soup wasn't too oily. I think it could still get better with corn and string beans in addition to the cabbage slices, though.

I feel like I gained several pounds overnight--and we've only ticked off about one fourth of my list! I'm already looking forward to our next food trip in the chilly city.

The CityLifeStylist

Style Note No. 8

2011-10-17T00:10:00.000+08:00

(One shoulder dress and floral skirt, www.topshop.com; cardigan, www.stylebop.com; ballet flats and bag, www.barneys.com; gray tee, www.topshop.com; black sequined mini, www.stylebymarina.com; scarf, www.barneys.com; shoes, bag, and sunglasses, www.therow.com)

I'm sure there are items in your closet that are easy to throw on for evening events, but have never crossed your mind when you're dressing for the daytime. Cocktail dresses and sequined minis are perfect examples. I figured you can actually pull them off as casual daywear with minimal effort.

Throw a full skirt and a light coverup over a cocktail dress to turn it into a top that you can wear to work or school. While a sequined mini skirt isn't school- or office-appropriate, you can still wear it for a lunch date or to the mall paired with a basic top like a comfy tee, and finished off with casual accessories.

The CityLifeStylist

In My Makeup Kit: October 2011 Edition

2011-10-15T17:10:00.001+08:00

Photo credits go to the respective brands (listed below)

I've said it before and I'll say it again: I'm no expert when it comes to makeup. It's been a hit-or-miss process since high school, and boy, have I had a lot of misses! Think cakey foundation, a lipstick shade that was way too orangey, and blush that was too pale and lackluster. Now I'm glad to have at least been able to find my basic go-to products to complete my everyday look.

Here are the items I currently have in my beauty arsenal:

1. L'Oreal Paris True Match Foundation in Golden Beige. I use a thin layer to even out my skin tone. It's lightweight with just the right amount of coverage, and is very easy to blend. Aside from my daily moisturizer, I don't use any other makeup base before applying this.

2. Maybelline New York Clear Smooth Shine Free Face Powder with SPF 18 in Honey or Natural. I pat this on to set my foundation. It also comes in handy for quick touch-ups after using oil blotting film.

3. MAC Iridescent Pressed Powder in Belightful. I like sweeping a little shimmer on my lids and cheeks for a subtle glow. It brightens up my face and serves as a quick pick-me-upper especially when I'm feeling blah in the morning. I've also used The Body Shop's Brilliance Powder in Shimmer (02), but I like this compact better because application is a lot easier.

4. The Balm Hot Mama! Blush, Eyeshadow and Highlighter. Though it's a multipurpose product, I've only used it as blush, and it's one of the best I've tried! It's a nice peachy pink with a soft shimmer.

5. Etude House Code B Strong Eyes Cream Liner. Blogged about this here. It still does the job so I'm sticking with it till I finish the pot!

6. Shu Uemura eyelash curler. I've also blogged about this baby. I've been using it for years and it still works like magic. I'm thinking about getting the handier smaller version, though.

7. Clinique High Impact Mascara. I wrote about this in the same entry as the eyelash curler. I liked it a lot but since I'm almost done with this tube, I decided to try the...

8. Maybelline New York Magnum Volum' Express Waterproof Mascara. Like the Clinique mascara, it lasts all day, doesn't clump, and is also easy to remove. The Magnum, however, really lengthens my short lashes and gives way more volume.

9. MAC lipstick in Shy Shine. I like swiping this pinkish nude lipstick over...

10. Maybelline New York lipstick in Coral Pink. The end product is a rich honeysuckle hue!

11. DiorKiss Luscious Lip Plumping Gloss. Received this last Christmas and I'm still totally addicted to it because of its non-sticky but long-wearing formula. I usually use it over my Coral Pink lipstick if I want a deeper coral with a bit of shine.

12. L'Oreal Paris Color Juice Sheer Lip Gloss in Panther Pink. I got this as a gift more recently and it perfectly complements my MAC Shy Shine lipstick.

I didn't include eyeshadow in the list anymore because I hardly use them. On rare occasions, I use eye colour cream from Bloom and my mom's Revlon and Lancome eyeshadow palettes.

Hope you were able to get ideas for great new products to try!

The CityLifeStylist

Style Notes No. 5, No. 6 & No. 7

2011-10-09T00:10:00.026+08:00

Mixing prints can be tricky, but it can also be very chic (and wearable!) with the right balance between colors and patterns.

(Coral cardigan, www.topshop.com; floral blouse, www.net-a-porter.com; printed shorts, www.barneys.com; bag, shoes and accessories, www.shopstyle.com; Gossip Girl promo photo, www.screencrave.com; Milly Spring/Summer 2011 runway photo, www.styleite.com)

By sticking to a color scheme or combining complementary hues, you'll be able to keep your outfit looking clean and polished.

(Peony print silk shorts,www.topshop.com; striped long-sleeved tee, www.stylebop.com; floral top, www.net-a-porter.com; striped shorts, www.kohls.com; all shoes, bags and accessories, www.shopstyle.com; Jason Wu Spring 2011 runway photo, www.style.com)

Match subtle, simple prints with big, bold patterns to strike the perfect balance.

(Concert photo of the late Amy Winehouse, ladynoixdecoco.onsugar.com; Proenza Schouler Spring 2010 runway photo, www.harpersbazaar.com; polka dot top and cream belt, www.shopstyle.com; printed pencil skirt, www.topshop.com; striped oxford shirt, www.stylebop.com; animal print skirt, www.barneys.com; black belt, www.shopstyle.com)

For a smooth transition between pieces, use a belt in a color common to your top and bottom.

Finish off with accessories in neutral, solid tones to pull your outfits together, and you'll find that trying prints on prints isn't so difficult after all!

The CityLifeStylist

Style Note No. 4

2011-10-08T00:05:00.019+08:00

(Kimono cardigan, black tank top and navy wide-leg pants, www.topshop.com; black pumps, www.rustylopez.com; black leather watch, www.michaelkors.com; black leather bag, www.therow.com; two-toned dress, www.stylebymarina.com; slouchy cardigan and and floral blouse, www.topshop.com; coral bermuda shorts, themall.ph; watch, ring and gladiator sandals, www.michaelkors.com; night owl bag, two-toned handbag and earrings, www.katespade.com)

What makes today's fashion so much more fun is the anything goes, style rule-breaking attitude that leaves room for a lot of experimentation. There are current trends that have broken age-old fashion rules that I have yet to try such as prints on prints, but there is one that I've found quite easy to pull off: pairing loose separates.

Wear a slouchy outfit without looking sloppy by anchoring it with minimal and coordinated accessories, and by using pieces in complementary colors and prints. If you want to have a put-together look, avoid mixing prints or clashing colors. Should you wish to experiment and really let loose, on the other hand, there are absolutely no limits!

The CityLifeStylist

Style Note No. 3

2011-10-07T00:05:00.005+08:00

(Gray blazer and gray tank top, www.theoutnet.com; green wide-leg pants, www.stylebymarina.com; gray cowl neck dress and pussybow blouse, www.farfetch.com, red obi belt and Jimmy Choo clutch, www.nordstrom.com; red ballet flats, www.suelasonline.com; gold earrings, www.topshop.com; pink pumps, yellow bangle and nude wedges, www.shopstyle.com; yellow pencil skirt, www.therow.com)

New color combinations can give a fresh spin to your neutral wardrobe. If you've been used to pairing your grays with blacks, whites, and browns, for instance, why not try combining them with sweet pinks and reds, or even citrusy greens and yellows for a change? You can start with subdued shades and gradually work in some punchier tones as you warm up to the new palette.

The CityLifeStylist

Style Note No. 2

2011-10-06T00:05:00.001+08:00

(White button-down tunic from www.bluefly.com; gray shirt dress from www.stylebymarina.com; black draped tube dress from www.lagarconne.com; belt from www.topshop.com)

I wear a lot of dresses to work because I find them a lot more comfortable than pants. My precious cardigans have been my favorite cover-ups for the longest time, so I thought I should replace them with something just as light from time to time.

I discovered that button-down tunics and shirt dresses would be good alternatives. Both can be worn open or belted over a dress. This idea would breathe new life into these pieces as well because I've always worn shirt dresses alone, and usually tuck tunics into skirts or just throw them over leggings.

The CityLifeStylist

Style Note No. 1

2011-10-05T00:05:00.001+08:00

(Tee and skirt from www.topshop.com; ballet flats from m.stevemadden.com; turban headband from theroyaltyshop.multiply.com; black stiletto slingbacks from www.forever21.com; ring from www.hm.com)

While I couldn't take some of my weekend getups to the office, such as my mini dresses, short skirts, and loose T-shirts paired with denim shorts, I thought I could make something work with my fave comfy tees. This idea hits two birds with one stone, 'cause it'll also get me to wear my curve-hugging skirts more often--no need to wait for a dinner date or a night out with friends!

For a casual but polished look, put on comfy ballet flats and keep your tresses in place with a turban headband. You can also glam it up with a statement ring and black stiletto slingbacks!

The CityLifeStylist

Style Notes to Self

2011-10-04T12:41:00.007+08:00

I realized I haven't been walking the talk when my mom pointed out that I've been wearing my clothes the same way lately. Sure, I've kept different pieces on rotation, but I haven't put in much effort in terms of mixing and matching them. So I came up with notes to self--styling ideas that would help motivate myself to switch up my outfits!

Inspired by the Olsens' StyleMint TStyle Ideas on Tumblr (which I reblogged on The CityLifeStylist tumblelog), I'll be sharing my own Style Notes with you. These will be perfect for days when you've got a closet full of clothes but still feel like you have nothing to wear.

Posting the first of many style notes in the next entry. Hope you'll find them useful, too!

The CityLifeStylist

Jill Stuart's Dreamland

2011-09-17T13:32:00.000+08:00

photo credit: www.style.com

Jill Stuart's Spring 2012 collection can transport you to a dreamland of candy and rainbows. Any laid-back-but-put-together girly girl would be drawn to these sherbet hues infused with nudes on flowy dresses and easy separates.

The CityLifeStylist

Casual Polish

2011-09-12T12:45:00.000+08:00

photo credit: www.style.com

Derek Lam's Spring 2012 collection combines polished, upscale glamour with a vibrant, fresh casualness.

Feast your eyes on the vivid hues on structured silhouettes.

The CityLifeStylist

Wow, More Isaw!

2011-09-05T00:05:00.000+08:00

Chicken isaw from Ate Angie's (left) and Mang Larry's (right)

Dropped by UP Diliman with a friend one Saturday and decided to get some isaw (intestines). I've always loved Mang Larry's chicken isaw but my friend suggested that I try the ones from Ate Angie's.

The verdict: I like the chicken isaw from Mang Larry's (left) better because of the more toasted texture that adds some crispness. I also love its smoky flavor. The ones from Ate Angie's (right) are tasty as well, but they're a lot chewier. (Not a fan of extra chewy innards!)

On the other hand, I liked Ate Angie's pork isaw (left) better than the ones from Mang Larry's (not in photo). They're both very savory, but again, texture is the deciding factor for me. Sticks of pork isaw from Ate Angie's are a bit thinner and more toasted.

Blogging about these street treats makes me want to go to UP right now!

The CityLifeStylist

Honda Bay Island-Hopping in Palawan

2011-09-04T00:10:00.021+08:00

On our last day in Palawan, we spent the entire morning island-hopping. We only got to go snorkeling on two islands, though, because we had to catch a 2:00 p.m. flight! But despite the time constraint, we were thoroughly satisfied with the tour.

If you don't have your own snorkeling gear, Pan'z Mask & Snorkeling Rental is the place to rent some. They're clean and reliable, and Mr. Panz is very friendly!

We then headed to the Honda Bay dock and got ourselves a boat with the help of our guide.

Our first stop was Snake Island. Doesn't the beach look like a beautiful painting? It was unreal!

photo credit: Rosalie Torres

Here, I went snorkeling for the first time ever. I do love the ocean but I've always been scared to go too far from the shore, even in a life jacket! Everybody was very supportive, though, and I stopped worrying once I saw the schools of fish.

The view from our kubo!

When we got out of the water, fresh lobsters, shrimps, fish, pork belly, grilled eggplant, a tossed salad with vinaigrette, and ripe mangoes were waiting for us back at our kubo (nipa hut)! That was probably the best meal we had in Palawan. We were so full!

Good thing it took about 20 minutes to get to the next island so we were able to rest before going snorkeling again. It was raining when we got to Pandan Island, but it didn't matter. We wanted to plunge back into the water!

We didn't regret renting waterproof camera cases from our guide. The shots aren't the clearest, but at least we were able to capture the experience!

Look who we found--Nemo!

We had a blast. The next time we visit Palawan, I'd love to explore Coron!

The CityLifeStylist

Ziplining at Ugong Rock and Exploring the Underground River in Palawan

2011-09-03T13:55:00.001+08:00

On our second day in Puerto Princesa, we drove to Ugong Rock to go on the zipline.

We had to gear up for the climb first. It was so much fun and a lot easier than spelunking in Sagada!

See, I even got to strike a pose!

When we got to the top, the view was spectacular! I was both nervous and excited to go back down via the zipline.

Good thing I had my cheerleader with me! I gathered enough courage and went for it. During the first few seconds, it was a little scary. I felt as if my heart dropped! Then it became both thrilling and peaceful at the same time. Now I know how it feels like to fly!

The pretty Torres sisters!

Lunch by the beach--lovely view!

After a buffet lunch by the beach, we hopped on a boat to get to our next destination.

I felt like the boat ride was an adventure in itself! I love the ocean.

When we got there, we had to wait for about half an hour for our turn, but it was definitely worth it.

Off we go!

It was way too dark to take good photos inside the cave with my digicam. We tucked away our cameras and just looked around in awe. Our guide showed us the different formations, the bats, and the birds, and warned us about the droppings!

The Puerto Princesa Underground River has actually been nominated as one of the world's New Seven Wonders of Nature. Voting has been extended until December 2012! Send "PPUR" via SMS to 2861, or log on to www.new7wonders.com to cast your votes. You can also like Wunderground United on Facebook to show your support.

photo credit: Rosalie Torres

We're definitely voting for PPUR!

The CityLifeStylist

Fun in Palawan: City Tour

2011-09-02T00:05:00.003+08:00

Last July, I spent one weekend in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, to celebrate the birthday of my boyfriend's older sister Rhina. It was a celebration, all right, with lots of yummy food and great adventures!

We toured the city upon arrival and visited the Crocodile Farm. At first it felt like a trip to a museum, but it got exciting when they showed us the baby crocodiles and warned us that they could bite if we came too near. According to the guide, these three- to five-year-old crocs have the perfect skin for making bags and belts. Poor kids!

Our next stop was the Butterfly Garden, which reminded me of one of my favorite movies of all time, The Secret Garden! There were lots of plants and flowers everywhere, and gorgeous butterflies in different colors and sizes!

We also dropped by Mitra's Ranch for some sightseeing, and had some snacks at Baker's Hill, a popular bakery in the city. Of course I had to taste the chocolate caramel cake, which was good for only 25 pesos a slice. Just look at all that gooey caramel! The cake was moist, too.

For dinner, we went to Balinsasayaw, one of Puerto Princesa's most famous restaurants. We were feeling adventurous during the trip, but not adventurous enough to try crocodile meat! Instead, we feasted on comfort food--grilled chicken, seafood and veggies. These definitely hit the spot.

We headed back to the hotel early to get enough rest for the following day. We were scheduled to go on the Ugong Rock zipline and explore the Underground River. More on that in the next entry!

The CityLifeStylist

Clinique Bonus Time 2011!

2011-09-01T18:00:00.000+08:00

It's that time of the year again, ladies! Buy 4,500PhP worth of Clinique products and get a gift package, including all of the items above, absolutely free.

The bonus package includes the following:

Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief (15ml)
Moisture Surge Thirsty Skin Relief Face Spray (30ml)
All About Eyes Rich (7ml)
Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion (30ml) - One of the best moisturizers around!
Rinse Off Foaming Cleanser (30ml)
Super City Block SPF 40 Oil-Free Daily Face Protector
Superbalm Moisturizing Gloss
Circle C Mirror with C Charm in White Pebble Pouch

The free items you'll be receiving are worth 4,000 PhP. Sweet deal, huh?

For more information, check out Clinique Philippines on Facebook.

The CityLifeStylist

Tumblr Time

2011-08-31T19:50:00.002+08:00

Drop by The CityLifeStylist on Tumblr for short, quick fashion and lifestyle updates and little things that catch my eye. I'll still be updating this blog, though! Look at the tumblelog as a notepad-slash-inspiration board--a supplement, if you will.

Enjoy!

The CityLifeStylist

Keeping Up with the Jenners

2011-08-29T20:05:00.001+08:00

photo credit: Getty Images

I only learned about Kendall and Kylie Jenner, half-sisters of the popular Kardashian sisters, after seeing their interview with the Glee cast on Ryan Seacrest's YouTube page. I love their fashion choices, which are sweet, feminine pieces with an attitude!

photo credit: www.bruce-juice.com

Just look at those elegant beige and white dresses, which look even more divine paired with classic nude stilettos.

photo credit: Getty Images

The girls tap their fun and funky side with a paint-splattered tube dress on Kylie and a figure-hugging long-sleeved black number on Kendall.

photo credit: www.denimblog.com and www.skinnyland.com

I find their casual outfits and matching sneakers so adorable as well. They also have the best-fitting denim shorts, my year-round wardrobe staple!

The CityLifeStylist

Sweep Dreams

2011-08-17T00:10:00.003+08:00

photo credit: justjared.buzznet.com

Floor-sweeping and ankle-grazing skirts have been spotted sashaying down the streets and the red (or blue!) carpet. In fact, my top pick for Best Dressed at the recent 2011 Teen Choice Awards is Troian Bellisario of Pretty Little Liars, who donned this sophisticated taupe and black maxi dress. It's actually like a thigh-high cocktail dress with a nice criss-cross detail on the bodice finished off with a layer of sheer fabric from the waist down. Stunning.

photo credit: www.vogue.it and www.zimbio.com

Model Miranda Kerr and model-turned-actress Rosie Huntington-Whiteley both look very chic in their long, flowy skirts paired with basic tops and comfy nude flats.

photo credit: www.pynkcelebrity.com and www.fashionfame.com

Ashley Olsen and Nicole Richie are proof that petite ladies can also look fabulous in maxi dresses--and they don't need heels to pull them off!

I never thought the long skirts I wore a lot during my pre-teen years would ever be in style for casual wear!

The CityLifeStylist

Pen Pals

2011-08-16T12:15:00.000+08:00

photo credit: www.muji.eu

These Hex Double-Ended Pens from Muji are among my favorite felt-tip pens along with my trusty Stabilo ones. I love how you get both the fine and thick lines in one pen! Both brands take forever to dry out as long as you put the caps back on when you're not using them.

They're great for taking down notes and making exam reviewers. I'm already in grad school, but colorful, grade school-ish study habits still work for me!

The CityLifeStylist

Subtle Pinks, Nudes and Creams

2011-08-11T00:02:00.000+08:00

I've been preoccupied with food and travels that I haven't been able to talk about fashion as much. It's not that I haven't found anything exciting style-wise, though. As I mentioned in the last few months, I've started being drawn back to pink, and lately, my closet has been going through more color changes. Pinks, nudes and creams have moved into what used to be my largely black and gray wardrobe!

Threw in a bunch of pink, nude and cream tops and skirts, including a couple tutus, cream belts, and some opal, capiz shell and pearl jewelry. It didn't matter where I found them--from the Patpong Night Bazaar and Platinum Mall in Bangkok, to Topshop and Forever21 stores in Manila, and to the markets and street vendors in Palawan!

That explains why I spent the past half hour online window shopping on the Style by Marina website. Everything looked really pretty, but these are my favorites:

photo credit: www.stylebymarina.com

I find the hues, fabrics and designs so fresh and classically feminine!

The CityLifeStylist

Crunch Time

2011-08-10T00:10:00.000+08:00

I hope I can update the blog at least a few times a week despite the busy sched ahead! I'll be sharing about my trip to Puerto Princesa, Palawan, soon, but for now, here are some of my favorite crunchy munchies that are as healthy as they are delightful.

Thai Crunch Salad

California Pizza Kitchen, TriNoma (see the list of other branches here)

Underneath those crispy rice sticks are shredded Napa cabbage, slices of chilled-grilled chicken breast, julienne cucumbers, edamame, and crispy wontons, all tossed in lime-cilantro and Thai peanut dressing which make everything even tastier. I loved the texture of all the ingredients combined and the extra crunch from the rice sticks. The serving isn't big enough to be eaten as a meal, but it's filling enough as a snack.

Oriental Chicken Salad

Don Henrico's, West Avenue (see the list of other branches here)

The fried noodles, crisp lettuce, carrots, peanuts, almonds, and sesame seeds mixed with the dressing make this salad a very crunchy concoction! The chicken is already quite piquant, so it's better to go easy on the dressing.

The SultaNut Muesli

The Muesli-Granola Kitchen and Bakeshop, Mercato Centrale

The SultaNut is a muesli mix that's great with plain yogurt, oatmeal, or alone as a healthy midday snack. Got it from The Muesli-Granola Kitchen and Bakeshop stall at Mercato Centrale. Be sure to try their yummy granola bars as well!

The CityLifeStylist

Mercato Weekend #4: Pan de Bagnet, Manang's Chicken and More

2011-08-09T00:02:00.002+08:00

Had another Mercato Centrale food trip last weekend, this time on a Saturday with friends. Here's the lowdown on our chow down!

Manang's Chicken

It's crisp on the outside and juicy on the inside, all right, but it's also smothered in sauce! This is my new favorite fried chicken--double deep fried chicken with Manang's "secret soy garlic sauce" available in original, mild spicy, and extra spicy variants. I particularly like mine mildly spicy because it was still sweet and tasty, but also had a hot kick.

Auntie May's

I won't be gushing about Auntie May's Escargot anymore because I've blogged about it way too much already (here and here), but I'm glad I encouraged my friends to try it 'cause it was one of the dishes that they really liked. This time, though, I also got to try the new Ribs & Potatoes, which was excellent as well. The meat was tender and the barbecue sauce was sweet and slightly smoky. It reminded me of Racks' ribs sauce, though it wasn't as thick and it was less salty--just right!

Bale Dutung

I've always wanted to try the Pan de Bagnet from Chef Claude Tayag's Bale Dutung stall, but the long lines have kept me from doing so in my previous visits. We actually stumbled upon it while we were already on the prowl for desserts, but we couldn't resist! We were also lucky 'cause I think we got the last order. The crisp, slightly salty bagnet (deep fried pork belly) on a bed of onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and other herbs and spices, which had a sourness to it, was splendid. I hope they can use a different kind of bread, though, because it was quite crumbly and dry.

Mongol-Yan

We also got some chicken isaw (intestines) and beef kebab from Mongol-Yan. I wasn't satisfied with the isaw because I usually like mine more toasted with a spicy vinegar dip, but I found the kebab pretty good. It could've been more tender, but it was very flavorful.

My friend bought a chocolate caramel cupcake from a stall-which-must-not-be-named, while I opted for a slice of chocolate caramel cake from MedChef. We liked the one from MedChef a lot better! It had a good balance between rich chocolate and gooey caramel, and a great moist texture. It's definitely going on my list of favorites next to Chocolat's Death by Tablea and Bailey's Chocolate Cake!

Merry Moo

After hogging the chocolate cakes I decided to skip the ice cream, but I was able to try some from my friends' cups of Merry Moo. We all loved the Earl Grey Tea flavor! Therese G. had hers with a scoop of Sea Salt Caramel, while Joseph I. paired it with Belgian Chocolate. Heavenly! Too bad the Empire macarons stall wasn't around. Therese's combination would've been even better with salted caramel macarons! My sweet tooth would be in ecstasy.

The chilled Black Tea from Gold Leaf went well with everything I had for lunch. I got to taste the Green Tea, which was a bit sweeter, and the Milk Tea, which would've been another delicious choice--if I wasn't going to be sampling cakes and ice cream along with it, that is!

The CityLifeStylist

Nothing Beats the Originals

2011-08-08T00:10:00.004+08:00

photo credit: Adidas Philippines

If there's anything I love about sports, it would be crisp, classic sportswear that can keep you looking chic even after working up a sweat. The adidas Originals ST line helps you do just that!

photo credit: Adidas Philippines

You don't have to be a skater girl to look hot in these kicks! Whether you're hitting the gym, the mall, or going partying, these sneaks would make comfy companions.

photo credit: Adidas Philippines

Trade in your cropped cardis for zip-up track jackets this season. They're just as cute but a lot more cozy. Throw one over a tee or a tank top and a pair of shorts or a casual denim mini for a sexily sporty look.

photo credit: www.fanpop.com

The perfect peg would be Shay Mitchell's character Emily in Pretty Little Liars. Sporty chic!

The adidas Originals ST collection hits adidas stores this month. For more information, visit the adidas Philippines Facebook page.

The CityLifeStylist

Meeting Tang Mai the Elephant

2011-08-07T13:10:00.001+08:00

photos courtesy of Louise Lizano

My classmate Louise L. and I were excited out of our minds for this 45-minute elephant ride at the Jungle House Hotel. This was part of the tour we booked on our free day.

photo courtesy of Louise Lizano

Meet Tang Mai, the gentle giant! She flapped her ears whenever we talked to her. So cute!

photo courtesy of Louise Lizano

Everybody in our tour group was definitely thrilled!

photo courtesy of Louise Lizano

As a treat, we gave Tang Mai lots of bananas after the ride!

I don't remember how many times Louise and I hugged her! We were the last ones to get back to the van because it was so hard to leave.

Meeting Tang Mai was definitely the highlight of my first trip to Thailand!

The CityLifeStylist

The Khao Yai National Park Tour

2011-08-06T23:20:00.007+08:00

Our trip to the local market in the province of Nakhon Nayok, Thailand, was followed by a trip to a farm, where we got to ride an ox cart!

The ox cart ride was fun, especially when we were given the chance to "drive" it!

Next on our itinerary was a trek to the Haew Narok Waterfall, which was inside the Khao Yai National Park. We saw different plants and insects along the way, crossed a bridge...

...and had to go down about six flights of very steep stairs to get there.

Here's the view from the top of the waterfall.

Unfortunately, unlike in Sagada's Bomod-ok Falls, swimming was not allowed here. Hee.

Finally got to the bottom. Amazing, huh?

Our guide didn't tell us what this sign said until we got back. Apparently, the bridge was broken and they're still waiting for the budget for repairs. I hope he was kidding!

On our way out of the park, we spotted three little monkeys on the road! Didn't get to take clear shots of all three, but above are photos of the one that crossed the street and came near my window. So adorable!

The CityLifeStylist

Off to the Market!

2011-08-03T00:54:00.003+08:00

On my trip to Thailand, I was able to explore some of the markets.

The coolest was the Lumphaya Floating Market, where you will see locals selling plants, handicrafts, fruits, vegetables, and other kinds of food products and drinks.

Some dock their boats and bring in their goods...

...while others sell right from their rowboats.

You can buy cooked meals, fruits, desserts and drinks, and enjoy them in a nice little table by the river.

The iced coffee I bought from this stall was delicious!

On our last day, my classmate Louise L. and I pre-booked a Khao Yai National Park and Elephant Ride Day Trip, which included a tour of another local market in Nakhon Nayok province. We came across a lot of interesting items here, such as insects that look like cockroaches sold as food!

I felt sorry for the poor turtles and frogs, which were also being sold alongside different kinds of seafood.

There were also items that were easy on the eyes, like pink century eggs (which I found unusual as the ones in Manila are magenta) and beautiful flowers, which are purchased to be offered in the temples.

What really made me happy were the piles of red hot chili peppers and--drum roll, please--MIANG! (Yup, the dish I was raving about in this post.) I brought a couple sets home and my family loved it as much as I did!

What I should've bought more of were fruits like mangosteen, lanzones, santol, and rambutan! They were a lot cheaper in Thailand than in the Philippines, as I mentioned in a previous entry.

When in Thailand, a trip to the market is a must!

The CityLifeStylist

The Biggest Pagoda in Thailand

2011-07-25T23:53:00.000+08:00

After the monk ordination ceremony, my classmates and I went to Nakhon Pathom to see Phra Pathom Chedi, the biggest pagoda in Thailand and one of the largest in the world.

It was under renovation during our visit, hence the mess in some areas, but it was still beautiful.

There were many different Buddha statues within the compound.

This is the biggest Buddha in Phra Pathom Chedi...

...while this is called the Reclining or the Sleeping Buddha.

photo credit: Louise Lizano

Our guide said we could sign our names before leaving.

The CityLifeStylist

A Monk Ordination Ceremony

2011-07-20T21:52:00.004+08:00

It is a great honor for Thai families to have a son ordained as a Buddhist monk. A man of at least twenty years old can choose to become one for the rest of his life, or for a shorter period like a few months.

Here are photos of the ordination ceremony that my classmates and I witnessed during our Thailand trip. The 22-year-old young man being ordained had chosen to become a full-fledged monk.

The ceremony started early at around 8:00 a.m. A delicious traditional Thai breakfast was served. (Wrote about the cupcakes and ice cream served for dessert in a previous entry!)

My professor asked for the monk-to-be's autograph.

A live band played during parts of the ceremony and during the parade around the temple.

Electric fans for use in the temple were offered by family and friends.

The procession paused in front of the temple after walking around it three times.

Before entering, the monk-to-be threw coins wrapped in colorful ribbons to the crowd, which signified rejection of worldly goods. We had a lot of fun trying to catch the coins which were said to bring us luck.

We were also allowed to enter the temple.

After the ceremony, we took more photos around the area.

The monks agreed to a photo.

Such beautiful architecture!

The ceremony was an amazing cultural experience.

The CityLifeStylist