Looking for your summer solemate?
DEAR RISSA,
I’m a college student looking for a great pair of summer sandals that are versatile and unique. I don’t want to have something everybody is wearing. I want a pair that is comfortable, too! Any shopping finds you can share?
JOANNA
I recently stumbled upon this shoe brand called Lulu Swing. I was invited by my friends and Manila’s favorite bloggers Kelly Misa, Patty Laurel, and Alessandra Lanot to an intimate event they mounted called #SpringFlingPH. This gathering allowed their blogs kellymisa.com, pattylaurel.com, and lifeafterbreakfast.com, respectively, to come to life before a select group of women. It was like Oprah but times three because they all shared their favorite things with friends and we all got to take home each of the items! It was a well-curated collection and I made wonderful discoveries that afternoon.
Lulu Swing was one of the great finds that day! A local brand that offers lovely sandals and shoes, the designs of Lulu Swing are a wonderful fusion of classic and fresh. They’re currently available online so shopping is not just convenient, but you also feel better knowing this unique brand isn’t found in every mall. And yes, unlike other websites, what you see is what you get — how pretty they look on the site is how pretty they’ll look once you get your pair, too! Their sandals are amazingly perfect for summer! I love the designs, which come in such fresh yet versatile colors! Each pair costs just a little over P1,000, but what I love most about Lulu Swing are the ultra soft soles. No need to break them in!
RISSA
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Packing Light 101
DEAR LUCY,
I am traveling to a cold country and I do not know how to pack light. What clothes should I bring? How many pairs of shoes? I will be away for about three weeks.
JACKIE
Traveling light is always a challenge, especially because you don’t want to be wearing the same thing in every photo (and for sure, there will be many!). I would say, stick to what is nice and basic but comfortable. You have to be very comfortable, without compromising looking nice and chic. Black is always a good choice — it is sleek, basic, chic. Bring trousers that fit you perfectly, and tops that are flattering on you as well. Cashmere is a good investment, it is not bulky yet it can keep you warm. Layer your clothing as the weather dictates. Bring thermal wear (Marks & Spencer has a good selection). Invest in a good coat. You do not need to have so many, but make sure the ones you do have are of really good quality.
How not to look boring and the same? Accessorize. Bring a change of earrings and scarves. Color can be injected into your look via both.
For shoes, do not go the tiis ganda way. Only bring shoes you know you can walk and run in. Choose one with a rubber sole, preferably. If you bring boots, go for the low-heeled ones, unless there are dressy nights which will require you to bring sexy heels.
During trips, I also do not mind availing myself of the hotel’s dry cleaning service, especially if this frees up luggage space for me.
I hope that helps. And wear lipstick in a happy color. Perks up both your outfit and your day!
LUCY
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Send e-mail to Lucy Torres-Gomez at ltg@pldtdsl.com. E-mail Rissa Trillo at stylesos_rissa@yahoo.com or follow her on Twitter @RissaMananquil. Send Regina Belmonte your questions at vivatregina.tumblr@gmail.com or tweet her @vivatregina.
