DIY Bookworm Set Up : Birthday For a Cause

Event Styling is always a good idea. And when a good friend asked if I'm willing to volunteer for a cause and style a specific theme for an event, I giddily said yes.

I am staunch supporter of rustic motif and minimalist with a hint of muted hues, Now,I know that's a lot to take in and you might think it's all over the place. But trust me, with the right location and elements, you can absolutely pull this off.

So when I was assigned the bookworm setup, I immediately created a Pinterest board and pinned every picnic style/reading corner pegs I could find. It was such a joy to plan every detail and scout for props. An ocular is obligatory to visualize the setup and ensure that everything will suit as planned.

It's my first ever outdoor themed set up and I had mixed feelings on how it will turn up. My head was rambling with a lot of ideas. I didn't want it too look too "overly adorned" and I didn't want it to be too bare either. A tepee and picnic mat were the core items of the set up. With the help of friends, we're able to make the pillars for the tepee. We bought the cloth at very reasonable price and even got scraps for free which we eventually used for buntings.

I wanted a relaxed look hence I figured a swing would be a good element to boost the reading corner look. The white/blue light bulbs added romance which complemented the swing. To inject rustic vibe and a hint of vintage feel, we added old wine boxes, weaved basket and pillows in hues of brown and beige. There were long stemmed flowers and piles of books in one corner along with the Polaroids scattered on the picnic blanket.
The mini bicycle added a bit of playful wit to the entire ensemble.

As soon as we're almost done with the setup and I was almost way too eager to see the final look, a roving team approached us and requested for a permit. We didn't have any as we thought we're allowed to hang things anywhere given it's a public park. We were so complacent at the thought that it's for public use and become oblivious that this is Singapore and they have strict laws and high respect for nature. We were asked to take down the Tepee, remove the buntings, light bulbs and yes, the swing. It broke my heart to see everything taken down. And as much I wanted to bawl and rant, we did the opposite. We were doing the set up for a Photo Marathon and for a good cause. We can't let a little mishap ruin everything we planned for. So instead of whining, we re-arranged everything as a picnic set up while maintaining the elements we initially thought of.


The buntings were used as a background for couples who would like to take their couple shots. The light bulbs were placed around the reading corner. We were done as soon as the guests start to come in. I smiled sheepishly as I gazed at the finished setup. It was a work of love rooted for a good cause.



There were 3 setups done for this marathon and everyone poured their heart and thoughts to ensure that the backdrop will be picture worthy. The event was indeed a success. A birthday celebration for our 2 year old Anika and surprisingly managed to raise an amount which exceeded our preset goal .

There is something poignant about the image of people coming together for a cause and this experience was an eye opener for me. I've come to an understanding that more than the monetary assistance, there are different ways by which we can bless others. We can be generous with our  skills, time, talent and resources. With the proper mindset, objective and heart; we are empowered to unselfishly give, with no serving motives. Giving is always better than receiving and though it's human nature to believe that when have more, we can give more; if you come from this mentality you never have enough of anything to give.You gain more when you give and it's something which cannot be quantified nor measured. It fills your heart and entire being. So be generous of whatever you have and be cheerful in doing it; because it is when we lose ourselves for others that we can truly find joy beyond any possessions.

Xo,
Jhesy 

Between the Lines

My idée fixe for stripped look started a little over than 2 years ago..I always incorporate stripes with nautical wear. Blue and white with a hint of red. Oversized sun glasses and wide brimmed hat - All set for Yacht Party at the Hamptons. But seriously, stripes especially when mixed with minimalism can boost an entire look and transform your ensemble to a classic glam up number yet not so over the top.

Dress by Aldrin & Laura 

Some people, women in particular dread wearing lines. And trust me, I used to shun away from them too. Back then I view them as too dramatic, so many things going on and restricting as you can only partner it with little variations.Then I saw Alexa Chung sporting this striped black and white tee with boyfriend Jeans highlighted with pop of color in red lipstick. It literally changed my perception about wearing sea of black and white. In fact, each time I would scout for pieces to add to my wardrobe, I would end up buying a tee, dress or skirt detailed in stripes of black and white.

Alexa Chung in striped tee

You have to give it to this simple yet taken for granted look as if it's an ode to classic fashion mantra. It's the trend which will always be a hit regardless of time, age and season. It's the perfect default look which certainly saves the day. It's versatility to accord its style for any occasion have proven that this sure is closet must have.

Here are some pieces you can work with the help of our trusty basic striped tee :

1. Beach Babe

Add pop up of color your tee and match it with an oversized sunglasses and you'll be turning heads in no time

2. Corporate Gal 

Conquer the board room with those cat eyes and striped mini dress and get everyone's ears and eyes attuned to your every word.

3. Party Siren

Ripped Jeans + Stripped top + Ankle Strap Hells + Red Lippy = #readytopaintthetownred 

4. Casual Chic

Got errands to run? Slip on to your converse and don a stripped top and boyfriend jeans.Complete 'em list by looking extra stylish.

5. French City Girl

Dreaming of Riviera or simply strolling under the city lights of Paris. There's nothing more perfect that a red coat don onto a striped top and knee high skirt.

Sometimes we become oblivious that beautiful things may come in the simplest form. In this case, a basic striped top. It can pull sophistication without trying so hard. It can stand on its own or can be adorned with luxurious ornaments in gold and whites. It will work on any body type without sacrificing sartorial gusto. It's a fantastic trend that is clean and effortlessly chic.

So if simplicity is what you're after then a striped tee is your best bet as you can never go wrong with this look. Activate your imagination and set forth for a style-exercise and be surprised at variety of looks one can pull off with this number.

Xo,
Jhesy 

Blossom

Taking a break from Travel diaries and sharing with you a throwback #ootd to jump start this year. I enjoy incorporating different textures in my wardrobe. Not only does it diversifies your outfits but it lets you explore endless possibilities on what would work with your body, what will accentuate your features and also a good test run for you creativity. This ensemble is part of the shoot we did for Aldrin & Laura some time in June. 

Was torn between going for a romantic, dreamy and slightly formal look but eventually resorted to pairing this beautiful balloon lace skirt with a jersey strappy loud pink top. Most grown ups shun away from pink colors as they may seem to loud or too girly to be taken seriously.  Lace on the other hand sends a romantic, lady-like, soft and innocent aura to anyone who dares to don in them. Mixing these two elements was a bit of a fashion risk as there's a thin line between attempting to gear towards semi-formal look injected with a youthful vibe vs that of a desperate cry for trying to imitate a teeny booper wannabe. The back detailing adds a subtle hint of sexy showing a good amount of skin against the bold color. Completing the look with silver stilettos and you're all set for high tea, girl's pre-night out rendezvous or simply a date night with your man. 

Dare to wear pink and embrace your inner child-barbie-fan girl. It's a refreshing pop of color that could instantly brighten your look and mood. 

Travel Diary : Puerto Princesa

This will be a series of beach entries so please bear with me. There's something about the vast blue waters, fine sand and salty air which compelled me to always long for beach escapades. And 2015 did not disappoint. To date, I've been to 5 beach getaways but then again, who's even counting yeah?

My good old high school friends has just started this tradition to travel at least once a year. With most of us getting married, having kids and moving to a different country or continent ( I am part of the latter ),getting everyone on board to agree on a schedule and destination is not an easy feat.So when we finally synchronized our vacation leave, we immediately booked for Palawan. It took us 3 months to finalized everything and I couldn't be happier when I saw the airline tickets and completed itinerary.

Palawan has always been on my list and though this trip didn't take me to see El Nido, which I am eyeing to visit next time; I finally crossed the Underground River off my list.

We had three days to spare which covered the Underground river tour, HondaBay island hopping and a day tour at Dos Palmas. Since we're a group of 14 pax , we realized it would be easier if we book a tour package rather than doing a DIY.

Cowrie Island was just beautiful. It's February but it felt like the peak of summer. I was burnt to the darkest I've seen my skin has gone through. But it didn't matter really as I didn't want to miss the chance to bask under the sun, with the salty wind in my hair and fine sand on my toes ( on repeat). For someone who loves the beach and saltwater; I have fear of deep waters. I panic as soon as my feet can barely touch the sand. I know, i know. I REALLY need to take swimming lessons ( ASAP ). We spent several hours doing snorkeling, lounging by at the sea shore and taking a ton of groufie.

Wearing this purple maillot which I chanced upon at SM swimwear section, yes folks, last minute shopping. They have a good range of swimwear selections from bikinis, onesies and high waisted pieces.I have always loved the look of laced cover up and I am in love with this one for its details and flexibility. Wearing a cover up though see-through makes me feel that I'm not as half naked as I'd feel when wearing a bikini.

On to day 2. Part of the tour package was a day tour to Dos Palmas. Back in the day, it's one of the most desired luxury resorts in Palawan and it's frequented by foreigners and locals alike. However, due to a kidnapping incident which took place probably more than a decade ago,there has been a decline to the number of tourists who visit this resort. As theme of the day was more of resort wear, I donned a beach cover up/maxi dress from SM to match with the luxurious feel of Dos Palmas.Adding my fuschia floppy hat to the mix completes the whole ensemble. I specifically loved the bridge which served as the port for the ferries to dock. This trip was special not only because I was with my friends but I was part of an engagement shoot done by my good friend V. It was flawless and romantic not to mention fashionably perfect.

 

Our last day in Palawan was unforgettable. I stood there in awe grasping for words as I marvel at the beautiful Underground River. It's beautiful beyond words and as one of the new 7 wonders of the world, I was just too excited to see its majestic beauty up close. I tried to balance myself as I dipped my legs into the lush green water. It was so clear that you can even see the school of fish swimming around your legs. We were then led to our kayaks and off we went inside the cave. It was dark and the light from our flashlights served as our eyes to see the wonderful formations of holy families, fruits and other beautiful creations. It was a good 30-minute ride or less yet there was this immense feeling of satisfaction and gratitude to be have experienced the Underground River.

Traveling with your "barkada" specially those whom you grew up with is a priceless experience as these are the type of stories we'd tell our future sons and daughters in the hope that they will also fall in love with traveling and treasure genuine friendships. 

Palawan with its immaculate serenity is a beauty which should admired, protected and treasured. It's with great pride as a Filipino that this wonder is within our shores and that you don't have to travel far enough to experience such splendor.

♥♥,
Jhesy