Dear Rissa,
I’m traveling on a long trip soon and plan to buy extra clothes. I don’t want to pack too many pieces. What clothing do you suggest so my wardrobe is versatile? Hope you can help before I shop.— Katherine
Three things are key for the perfect travel wardrobe: first, colors are complementary so you can easily mix match any piece without worry; second, they can take you from day to night; lastly, they are wrinkle-free because nothing cheapens an outfit than unsightly creases.
One tried-and-tested brand I love is Harlan & Holden (boutiques located at Shangri-laPlaza Mall, Power Plant, Mega Fashion Hall, and Ayala Malls The 30th). They have me the perfect outfits for days when I don’t know what to wear. I always feel so chic and stylish even if I had only five minutes to dress up. Their pieces are perfect for travel because they can be easily layered without making you look frumpy but still looking stylish. They’re wrinkle-proof too and they even created a cabin wear collection devoted to travel — it’s lightweight, breathable, and are crease-resistant too.
If you love shopping online, another new collection I really like is the one by stylish blogger Tricia Gosingtian. She recently collaborated with e-commerce site, AVA.ph, to create a 26-piece collection inspired by cherry blossoms. Apart from being wrinkle-resistant, the pieces offer the friendliest shapes and styles that suit different body types. The collection features pretty pastels but the pretty floral prints take you day to night dressing, too. What I find brilliant are the pieces that can be worn different ways — like a boatneck blouse when worn reverse becomes a v-neck top. A simple change in neckline really multiplies the stylish possibilities, especially when traveling. I haven’t tried anything from this collection but it’s selling out fast so best to shop for it online soon! — Rissa
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laPlaza Mall, Power Plant, Mega Fashion Hall, and Ayala Malls The 30th). They have me the perfect outfits for days when I don’t know what to wear. I always feel so chic and stylish even if I had only five minutes to dress up. Their pieces are perfect for travel because they can be easily layered without making you look frumpy but still looking stylish. They’re wrinkle-proof too and they even created a cabin wear collection devoted to travel — it’s lightweight, breathable, and are crease-resistant too.
If you love shopping online, another new collection I really like is the one by stylish blogger Tricia Gosingtian. She recently collaborated with e-commerce site, AVA.ph, to create a 26-piece collection inspired by cherry blossoms. Apart from being wrinkle-resistant, the pieces offer the friendliest shapes and styles that suit different body types. The collection features pretty pastels but the pretty floral prints take you day to night dressing, too. What I find brilliant are the pieces that can be worn different ways — like a boatneck blouse when worn reverse becomes a v-neck top. A simple change in neckline really multiplies the stylish possibilities, especially when traveling. I haven’t tried anything from this collection but it’s selling out fast so best to shop for it online soon! — Rissa
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How to dress if you’re not a size 2 (don’t wear a girdle!)
Dear Lucy,
I am overweight (I just gave birth) and I feel like there is nothing I can wear now that will make me look good. I also don’t know what footwear to choose if and when I do find a dress because I cannot last long in heels. My friend suggested I squeeze myself into a girdle and find a dress to wear over that because, she says, anything loose will make me look even bigger. I just need transition clothes that I can wear till I get back to my pre-pregnancy weight. — A.
Harlan & Holden has easy to wear clothes that can take you from day to night.
I don’t believe there is nothing out there that will make you look good. And I don’t agree that your only option is to squeeze yourself into a girdle and choose a dress based on your instantly slimmed but temporary size. Plus a girdle can be very uncomfortable, especially in this summer heat.
Given your size now, your best bet may actually be something loose but with a smart and sharp cut. I like the versatility of Harlan & Holden when it comes to style and fit. A size 10 person will look just as good as one who wears a size 2 in the same style dress. They have all these clothes in solid colors that are so easy to wear, and can take you from day to night with just a change in accessories. Then they have the Camino shoes, truly comfortable and basic you can wear it with most anything.
Don’t be too hard on yourself. You can look good in any weight and at any stage of your life. You have control over that — always look and be the best you can!
Wishing you well, A. — Lucy