Landmark's Shoe Rack Chandeliers

These shoe rack chandeliers in the ladies' footwear section of Landmark Makati caught my attention when I visited the store. I just had to go back and take photos of them. This is a brilliant idea for shoe addicts who are running out of closet spaces in their homes. They can hang one of these in their living room and display their collection of Manolo Blahnik, Jimmy Choo and Christian Louboutin. If this happens, this chandelier will definitely cost more than a crystal one.

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Thank You to All the Readers

I started Fashion PULIS last February 17 and as of today, March 15, it has received 100,000 pageviews. I would like to thank all the readers for your support. Special thanks to all my friends and students. Thank you also to all the people who entrusted your stories to me. Please keep supporting Fashion PULIS and continue to spread the love.

Follow me on twitter: micsylim and like fashionpulis on Facebook. Please send your stories to michaelsylim@gmail.com. I will be waiting.

Celebrity Sighting in the Casino

This married dramatic actress is frequently spotted in the VIP section of a casino in Pasay City with a wealthy businessman. She would roll the dice for her date when he is playing craps to serve as his lucky charm. When her date transfers to the baccarat table, she would sit beside him and act as his head cheerleader. Earlier this month, news implying that the two are dating have surfaced the tabloids and celebrity talk shows but she has vehemently denied all these rumors.

In my opinion, she can only deny their casino sighting to a certain extent. Many casino dealers and players have confirmed seeing them together in different occasions. A friend of mine who frequents the place can also attest to it. He has even witnessed the actress hugging her businessman date one time out of excitement when he won a big bet. If she does not want the public to talk about them, then I suggest she should transfer their romantic dates to a more private venue.

Do you know who is this actress? I will give you a clue. Her transfer from one network to another signalled the downfall of her acting career.

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Ricardo Tisci Replaces John Galliano as Dior's Creative Director

After the sudden departure of John Galliano from Dior, the label hired Ricardo Tisci as its new creative director. Tisci is an Italian fashion designer who graduated from London's Central Saint Martins Academy. In 2005, he was named as the creative director of Givenchy womenswear, haute couture. Three years later, the responsibility of designing the label's menswear and accessories line was entrusted to him as well.

This designer revived Givenchy with his Gothic touches and space-age minimalism. He designed the costumes for Madonna’s 2008 Sticky & Sweet tour and the red carpet gown of Cate Blachett during the Oscars. With his departure from the label, the question now is who will run Givenchy?

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Celebrity Sighting in the Basement

Last month, blind items surfaced implying that an award winning actress was confined in the basement of a hospital due to undisclosed causes. Her best friend broke her silence last week and denied the basement rumor. She goes on citing an instance when a celebrity friend saw them having dinner in a Makati hotel last month. If this is the case, why is the actress not available for an interview to defend herself?

Yesterday afternoon, the actress was spotted in the basement of a Makati hospital by friends of S.M. who were visiting a patient. They were very surprised to see the actress in the lounge, not as a visitor but as a patient. Based on yesterday's celebrity sighting, I think it is safe to say that the actress is really there. We just don't know since when was she there.

My doctor friend told me that there are many reasons behind a patient's admission to a psychiatric ward. The most common ones are: 1.) if  a patient has suicidal or homicidal tendencies, 2.) if  a patient has abnormal sleeping and eating behavior as a result of depression 3.) if the behavior of the patient can no longer be controlled by family members and 4.) if a patient has drug abuse problems. 

The question now is why was the actress admitted? I don't know the answer to this question but my guess is as good as yours. Is she depressed because her television show did not rate well (has it been cancelled)? Maybe her break up with her lesbian lover (sister of a restauranteur) caused her severe depression? What do you think?

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P.S. I accidentally deleted some of your comments for various posts. It would be great if you can post them again. Thank you.

Let Us Pray for Japan

These five photos show us the gravity of the damage in Japan. They look like scenes from a big budget Hollywood film but they are not. I felt very sad when I saw these photos on Facebook and I thought of sharing them with you. Let us all pray for Japan and also pray that nothing like this will ever happen to the Philippines.

Today, I am supposed to file the application for our Japanese visa for our upcoming trip to Osaka and Tokyo this coming Holy Week. I guess we have to postpone our trip to Japan indefinitely. This makes me even more sad because I miss going to Japan and it seems like it will take a while before my next visit.

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P.S. I accidentally deleted some of your comments for various posts. It would be great if you can repost them. Thank you.

The Banker's Secret

This conservative bank executive has an outgoing girlfriend who is a celebrity. Their relationship includes playing sport together, dine and wine with friends, movie nights and trips abroad. Although they have been together for a long time, there is something that the banker enjoys that he never shares with his girlfriend. The banker has a secret, he has a thing for transsexuals.

A transsexual is someone who underwent medical interventions like hormones and surgery to make his body as congruent as possible to a woman. He lives as a full time member of the gender opposite to what he is at birth. There are men who are sexually attracted to transsexuals and apparently this nerdy looking bank executive is one of them. From time to time, he would ring gorgeous model looking transsexuals to do house calls. Maybe these transsexuals can give him something that his celebrity girlfriend can not. Looks can really be deceiving!

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Modern China Collection

I have a penchant for any piece of fashion accessory that is oriental inspired. This is why I immediately fell in love with these Longevity Bangles from Vida Lim's Modern China Collection when I laid eyes on them. For some reason though, the design looks more Korean than Chinese to me. It is as if I am looking at Korean characters when I stare at the design. Well, whatever it is, I am loving it!

 According to Vida's Facebook page, each adjustable bangle is made of leather and brass dipped in 24K gold. Priced at 7,950 Php each, they are available in three bright summer colors: aqua, fuchsia and orange. Which color do you like most? For inquiries and orders, please send your emails to vidajewelries@gmail.com.

Maybe we can try our luck and request Vida to give one of these oriental chic bangles to a lucky Fashion PULIS reader? If this is the case, then I need to come up with a contest soon. Would you want one? What do you think?

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Her Royal Highness Snubs Former Actress

A former beauty queen was on the plane waiting for her flight back to her homeland where she is otherwise known as Her Royal Highness (HRH). Seated comfortably, her husband's niece-in-law walked up to her and said "hello, Tita!"  HRH simply sat still, showed no emotion and pretended not to hear anything. The nice-in-law walked away feeling very embarrassed.

Apparently, this niece-in-law until this day is "persona non grata" to some of the elders of her husband's family. This is the reason why the beauty queen/HRH ignored her presence on the plane. The niece-in-law is a former movie actress who gave up her career to start a family with her husband in a place far away from Manila.

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Grandmother Demands for DNA Retest

This chef fell in love with one of his culinary arts students in spite that he has a pregnant girlfriend. The chef's mother was ecstatic when she found out that her son's new girl belongs to a very influential family. The pregnant girl on the other hand was very depressed because she knew that could never win back her unborn child's father.

A few months before the baby's birth, the girl went to the chef to ask for financial support. When her baby was born, the chef was present at the hospital to sign the birth certificate of his newborn. When his mother found out about the signature incident, she was furious. She demanded that the baby should go through a DNA test to determine if the baby belongs to her son. As expected, the test proved that the chef is the biological father but the mother still refused to accept the result. She wants the baby to go through a DNA retest in another hospital of her choice. Her son's ex-girlfriend refused this time around because she fears that her baby's grandmother might manipulate the outcome of the retest.

Is this the reason why the chef and his girlfriend have not been married till this day? Do you know this chef? How about his girlfriend?

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The Liar + The Borrower = The Stylist

Many readers informed me that they were very much entertained by the story of The World's Biggest Liar. Some felt weird that he did not do his research before fabricating the top ten lies. Due to the overwhelming response of the story, I have decided to write a sequel and entitle it "The Borrower."

The stylist fabricated the lies to impress the people around him. He lies for the purpose of social climbing, for the people to think highly of him. Seriously, does he really have to impress other people because he is a stylist?

He is smart enough though to know that his lies will never be sufficient to convince people, so he had to use another deceptive strategy called borrowing. He borrows almost anything that he can use to show off to people and make them believe that he actually owns them. His list of favorite items to borrow would include cars, designer handbags, shades and other fashion accessories. Besides these material objects, he is also known for borrowing money and never giving it back.

Apart from his borrowing tactics, he also buys things from friends but never pays for them. Like this Hermes Herbag that he bought from a friend who is a bag seller. When the seller sent him messages, following up on the 90,000 Php payment, he informed the seller that he lost the bag. Does this mean that he no longer has to pay for the bag because he misplaced it? The seller was so surprised as to how he can lose such a big bag. Why can't he just return the bag? Did he sell the unpaid bag to get cash out of it?

In fairness to this stylist, his social climbing efforts have impressed a few gullible people in the fashion industry. One person I can think of is the editor in chief of a high end magazine who is actually considering him for a fashion editor post. I guess he is really an excellent actor for the editor to believe him. I just hope that mister editor does his assignment before making such a big mistake. This might be the worst decision of his career.

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Second W@W VideoFest

Photo courtesy of MangoRed

Weddings At Work (W@W) on its 12th year anniversary will be staging the Second W@W VideoFest  at Rockwell Cinema 4 on March 15, 2011. The event will have two screening schedules, one at 7:30pm and another at 9pm.

This year's VideoFest will focus the spotlight on the decade long career of the country's top videographer, Mr. Jason Magbanua. Five videographers, that were handpicked by Jason, will present documentaries highlighting his life and work from their perspectives. The participants include Ian Cruz, John Marvi de Guzman of Cinema Works, Bob Nicolas, Threelogy, and Mayd Studios. Their careers have all been influenced by Jason in one way or the other when they were just starting in the business.

This event is by invitation. If you are interested to receive free invites, kindly email wawvideofest@gmail.com with the names of attendees.

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Good Things Come in Threes

What are the chances of seeing three of your girl friends wearing the same shoes all at the same time? Last February 20 when I attended the wedding of Mike and Jane at the New World Renaissance Hotel, I was so amazed to see three friends all wearing the YSL Tribute Sandals, but in different shades. They looked so cute together, we just had to take a photo.

Let me introduce the shoe owners from left to right:  Vivian Tan-Cua's YSL in navy, yours truly, Joan Dy-Lim's YSL in beige and Nelly Tee-See's YSL in black.

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Green Couture: Using 100% Recycled Materials

Please support Green Couture, a fashion show featuring some of Manila's fashion designers showcasing their creations that are made from 100% recycled materials. The event will take place on March 20, 2011, 5 pm, at the Rigodon Ballroom of The Manila Peninsula Hotel. Show tickets are priced at 1,000 Php each and includes cocktails. Proceeds of the project will benefit the Manila Waldorf School, Incorporated.

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The Karma of a Society Pillar

A society pillar that once lived in a big mansion is now fostered by relatives because she lost everything she ever had, including the love of her daughter. The reason behind her loss, KARMA - what goes around, comes around.

In her younger days, she was known as the epitome of class, beauty and elegance in Philippine society. This beauty icon could have easily ranked number one in the most invited guests list during her heydays. Her mere presence blesses a social gathering with so much class and sophistication. Her beautiful life started to turn around when she ended her affair with a wealthy benefactor.

Years after the separation, the son of the benefactor discovered that the mansion where this beauty icon resides belongs to his father. He acted upon it and was able to sell it after more than a decade of legal battle. The beauty icon had no other choice but to evacuate it and move to a relative's condominium.

How about her daughter? Her biological daughter severed her relationship with her mother when she caught her in bed with her hot husband. She divorced her husband and never forgave her mother for what she did to her. A few years later, her father passed away and gave her a huge inheritance.

This socialite once had everything but is now left with nothing. She goes to a salon without having to pay for the services because her dear friend owns it. In spite of the freebies, she demands for VIP treatment and maltreats the attendants. She also complains about the lousy service so she does not need to give tips.

To this socialite/beauty icon, wake up. You can no longer afford to live the life.  Accept it and get real!

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Songbird's Designer from the 90's, Louie Mamengo, Dies in L.A.

Star fashion designer during the 80's and 90's, Louie Mamengo, died of cancer today in Los Angeles, California. He was the designer who started Regine Velasquez on the elegant backless evening gowns during her concerts. The Songbird's Louie Mamengo phase during the early 90's signaled the birth of the sophisticated Regine.

Louie also designed the evening gown of  Geraldine "Pebbles" Asis when she finished top 10 in Miss Universe 1997. During the evening gown competition, she ranked fourth wearing Louie's design, beating favorites from Latin America.

After his success in the Philippines during the 80's and 90's, he moved to the U.S.A. and started Mamengo Couture in Los Angeles. He will definitely be missed by his fans and friends from the Philippine Fashion Industry.

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Danzen Couple Weds in Francis Libiran

Last Saturday, March 5, 2011, Jhon and Shea tied the knot wearing Francis Libiran. When Shea found the Danzen tag in the inner pocket of Jhon's suit two weeks before the wedding, she knew she had to look for another designer to create her dream wedding gown. They were worried that no designer would accept the challenge but were relieved when Jhon's sister's designer, Francis, accepted the last minute job.  Let me share with you what Francis did for the couple in two weeks time.

All photos courtesy of Nelwin Uy

Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Jhon Maala.  Both of you looked gorgeous in your Francis Libiran creations. Thank you for inviting me to your wedding.  It was beautiful!

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Who's This World's Biggest Liar?

If this fashion stylist/consultant were to represent the Philippines in the world's biggest liar competition, I am sure that he would definitely bring home the gold medal. Lying is an art and unfortunately this stylist has not perfected this art. Let me share with you his Top 10 most famous lies:

Lie #1 

If he studied elementary and high school at DLSZ, then why did his school mates confirm that they graduated together from a school in Marikina? 

Lie #2 

If he lives on the 47th floor of Paragon Plaza, then why does Paragon Plaza have 42 stories?

Lie #3  

If his mom served as the ambassador to Spain, then why don't they have exactly identical last names? (His last name has De, the ambassador's last name did not)

Lie #4 

If his grandmother lives in Dasmarinas Village, then why does he ask friends to drop him off at the gasoline station outside Dasmarinas Village every time?

Lie #5 

If he was really off to LA that certain day, then why was he spotted by friends in a bar that same night?  (LA stands for Lower Antipolo not Los Angeles?) 

Lie #6 

If he never wears footwear that costs less than 10,000 Php, then why does he wear espadrilles? (Do espadrilles cost that much now?) 

Lie #7 

If he backpacked in Europe for two weeks, then why were there no photos? (His camera was busted?)

Lie #8 

If he has a collection of paintings by national artists in his Marikina stockroom, then why can't he show them to friends? (Paintings got submerged in water during a flood?)

Lie #9 

If his genuine gold Rolex watch broke into pieces during a car accident, then why can't he send it to the service center for repair? (He had the gold pieces melted and converted into a pendant?)

Lie #10 

If he really styled the photo shoot of Pussy Cat Dolls, then why don't I know what to say anymore?

Do you know this fashion stylist? I will give you a clue, he was punched on the face by an actor who has a twin brother outside a bar a few years back. He also hosted a fashion lifestyle television show.  

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Why Tina Tagle Made Her Blog Private

Readers have been asking me why they can no longer access the blog of Tina Tagle, the real housewife of Dasmarinas Village, Makati. Tina started her blog in 2000 as a personal online diary and she has written entries that are very personal. If you were able to read her "walang ka kiyeme kyeme" blog before it became private, she shares random topics ranging from fashion to family issues to household chores. When Chvaness featured her, many readers visited her blog and were hooked to her honesty and candor. Her readership increased further when she was featured in the newspaper. Due to her blog's popularity, her family members requested her to make it private because some of the stories she shared are not for public consumption.  

I missed the chance of meeting Tina the last time she went out with some friends. I heard she is a gracious and down to earth lady. I am actually looking forward to hang out with her sometime.  

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Tasteful Yet Inexpensive Wedding Gown Part 1

Photos courtesy of Jinky Sy

Being in the wedding industry for twenty years, I have seen how prices of wedding gowns have increased through the years.  At present, a wedding gown from an established designer costs at least 100,000 Php. Since, not all brides are willing to splurge on a wedding gown that costs six digits, they constantly search for new wedding gown designers who can produce tasteful yet inexpensive dresses. This inspired me to create a post on elegant wedding gowns that will not cost you an arm and a leg.

For Part 1 of this post, I invite you to take a closer look at the wedding gown of my client/bride Jennifer Ong-Chan. She looked radiant in her wedding gown by Marlene Marcelo. It is my first time to hear about her but I was impressed when I saw the gown.  Surprisingly, she charged the bride 60,000 Php for this beaded bustier gown. In my opinion, this is an excellent deal considering the material used, the clean construction and the fine embellishments. I specifically loved the beaded sash that added drama to the gown.  

With Jennifer's permission, I am able to share with you some of the her photos taken by wedding photographer Jinky Sy. Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth and Jennifer Chan!

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Zsa Zsa Zaturnnah: Vack With A Vengeance (Must Zee!)

I missed Zsa Zsa Zaturnah the last time it was shown so I will try my best not to miss it this coming Friday, March 11, 2011, 8pm at the CCP Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino.  If you are busy on Friday, you have until Sunday, March 11 to catch it.  Ticket prices are at 950 Php, 850 Php and 650 Php. For tickets inquiries and schedule, you can all Tanghalang Pilipino (8323661; 8321125 local 1620/1621); Ticket World (8919999) or CCP Box Office (8323704).

According to dancepinoy.com, Eula Valdez will play the role of Zsa Zsa Zaturnnah and Tuxqs Rutaquio as Ada. Pinky Amador will be playing Queen Femina alternating with Kalila Aguilos, Gabe Mercado alternates as Didi, and Dodong’s role will be by Rocky Salumbides or Red Anderson with a few performances by Prince Stefan.

Does anyone know the exact line up for Friday? I hope you can share with me. Thank you in advance.

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Filipino Wedding Photographer Receives International Recognition

Wedding photographer, Joselito "Lito" Sy, won first place in the recently concluded Wedding and Portrait Photographers International 2011 Awards of Excellence 16x20 Print Competition. The awards night was held  in the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas. His entry in the wedding details category, was singled out from more than 4,000 entries all over the world. The Wedding and Portrait Photographers International is like the Academy Awards for wedding photographers.

Lito's six other entries also received Accolades of Excellence (honorable mention) in various categories.

Lito is the first ever Filipino wedding photographer who was ever received first place from this award giving body. He has definitely captured the world with his amazing talent.  Congratulations Lito!

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