Philippine Fashion Ball 2011

In lieu of the 25th anniversary of The Proffesional Models Association of the Philippines (PMAP), the first ever Philippine Fashion Ball was held last Monday, 15th of August, at the Peninsula Hotel Manila giving recognition to what Philippine's fashion industry has achieved (so far) and also, to those who contributed in its success. An exclusive, VIP affair, this event showcased the country's top names in the said industry. Thanks to Stylebible, I had a glimpse of how everyone looked during the event.. And these people to me are the top five (well technically, they're seven women) stunners of the night (excluding the male attendees -- I have a special recognition for them). These women and who they're wearing left me heaps of awe, leaving my jaw open the entire time I was browsing through.

Apples Aberin in Rajo Laurel

Michelle Panemanglor in Noel Crisostomo

Rissa Mananquil

Two sizzling women bags the number two spot (they wore [almost] the same Rajo Laurel dress, only  different see-thru parts.) But tell me, who looked hotter? I'm guessing, both! :)

Anne Curtis

Pam Quinones

And the best dressed award goes to....

For this one, I had a hard time figuring out. Probably, for two minutes, I was just staring at my monitor, thinking who do I pick for Best Dressed. Have always been a big fan of Tweetie De Leon -- being 40, having children and yet, looking (almost) two decades younger, who wouldn't be amazed with that? On the other hand, we have Mikaela Martinez, who happens to be my favorite model ever since -- also a mother but looking as fresh and beautiful as the first time I saw her on Candy magazine. That night, they both looked pulchritudinous and ethereal.. Hence, to make my life a little easier, I've made up my mind to pick one and the other as my Best Dressed. By looking at them, I know I've made the right decision. To all them ladies, I am so proud Philippine fashion industry has people as statuesque as your guys are. Keep wow-ing us!

Tweetie de Leon - Gonzales in Rhett Eala

Mikaela Lagdameo-Martinez in Martin Bautista

Zebra everywhere

Today, I spent a whopping amount of 5k for everything zebra. Well, partly sponsored by Mom, but will pay for everything in the future anyway. So technically.. it was still me who wasted money.

Zebra wallet from Liz C

Zebra wedges from Possibility

This is one of the few good reasons why can’t I be left alone at a mall. Hehe. It’s crazy how much I stop myself from buying other things I want and even need; but when it comes to shopping, I go wild and lose control, like a monkey brought out of a cage. I must admit, at times (or most of it), I am materialistic. Let’s not be hypocrites, people. As much as we want to believe it’s love, money is the real culprit responsible for making the world go round and round and round. As the words of Madonna’s song: “We are living in a material world, and I am a material girl."

Besides, after all the hardwork, I think I deserve one hell of a reward. Or in my current case.. two. I am just so happy! Night! :)

Kisses,

Pia

Marchesa Fall 2012

If I were to be asked who's my favorite designer, Marchesa is the first thing I'd have in mind. The way Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig works with drapery is just beyond perfection, reminding me so much of ancient Greek goddesses and Asian princesses. The silhouette of their fabrics are picturesque, making every woman in it look graceful with every move. February of this year, Marchesa launched it's fall collection: Resort 2012, working [more] with pastel hues and a little less extravagant accents. According to Emily Holt of Vogue, "it was nice to see them toy with the idea that sometimes less is more" and to that I must agree on. Even not as lavish as their past collections, Chapman and Craig [again] left everyone in awe, with the desire to be dressed by two of the world's best couturiers. Here's who I think will look great, if not perfect, with some of the pieces from Resort (which are also my top five picks).

DRAPED CORAL CHIFFON COLUMN WITH EMBROIDERED DETAIL

Among the collection, this is the piece I loved the most. If this was in black, I'd immediately think of Angelina Jolie. However, when I tried to recall her red carpet fashion, I remembered what she wore for the Ocean's Thirteen premiere two years ago; that yellow Emanuel Ungaro gown is something new.. Something not Angelina, but she worked it. So I guess this would fit her impeccably in spite the pastel shade -- the way it was constructed hugs her body in all corners, and the drapes are perfect for her classy image.

LONG SLEEVE SILVER EMBROIDERED COWLNECK GOWN

Do I need to expound on this? I mean, with a butt like that....

LIGHT EMERALD CHIFFON STRAPLESS DRESS WITH DRAPED BODICE AND
EMBROIDERED SCALLOP DETAIL

We've always known Mila Kunis as a risk taker when it comes to red carpet fashion; from that printed dress at SAG awards to the purple Elie Saab gown during the Oscars -- she's never afraid to try something unsafe.. But not a time she failed in looking fashion forward. Being adventurous, I think this emerald dress fits her and works well with her skin tone and body. And with the same up do in the photo above, all I can envision is her exquisiteness.

ONE SHOULDER LEOPARD ORGANZA FULL-SKIRTED DRESS WITH EMBROIDERED WAIST

Pixie cut or not, Emma Watson is, with no question, one of the most beautiful of the youth today. We all saw her transform from that brouhaha haired Hermione to this matured, full-grown statement maker. I must admit, when she had her hair cut, I had mine fixed, too. Going back, I think this leopard dress fits her perfectly say, for a premiere night for another movie. Very lady-like and matured because of the animal print, but there's a youthful touch to it with the length and cut.

TEAL SILK GAZAR STRAPLESS DRAPED BODICE COLUMN GOWN

And last but not the least, Anne Hathaway. She's the only person I had in mind who looks perfect in this teal gown with a really, really big bow -- resembling most of what she wears during Hollywood events. With her skin tone and the mid-length hair, not to mention her full lips and fulgid smile -- this vision is just divine.

For months now, I’ve been planning to have my online clothing store. Finally, I found time to launch my own, tiny business. I’m just starting out so I barely bought clothes. To date, I think, I have 20 looks. But thou shall wait ’til I become bigtime.. and rich. Haha. With crossed-fingers, I hope I turn out what I want myself to be.

Anyway, we had our shoot yesterday. Original plan was to start mid-afternoon but ended up shooting at around 5PM and ended up by 8. I was tired as a dog — and I think everyone is. Make up took forever — like hours and hours and as if it’ll never end — but I must say, Ms. Ivy Falcone of Makeup For Ever did a great job. I must also commend my photographer, Elvin Calata, for making everything possible amidst the hassles of the location, the unpredictable weather, and the heat. I also wanna thank my ladies. They made everything look beautiful.. because they are. :)

Most importantly, I give my deepest gratitude to my Mom. Mainly, for giving me the funds and of course, for the endless support.

Here’s a glimpse of the shoot. I didn’t want to take pictures of myself for I look drugged. Teehee.

The production team!

It was pretty exhausting; however, I was beyond satisfied when I saw the outcome. I really hope everything turns out great. By the way, here are some of the final pictures. Tell me what you think!! Ciao.