Smartphone Friendly Gloves

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It's winter. The temps are below zero and you have been waiting at the bus stop for more than fifteen minutes now. Your freezing cold. Thankfully, you didn't forget to wear your beanie and your gloves. Suddenly, your phone rings. You want to ignore but sees that it's an important call that you need to take. So you have no choice but to remove your gloves so you can answer your phone. The call takes about five minutes. After that, your hands are so cold and numb you can't feel them anymore. 

Familiar eh? Do you ever find it annoying whenever you have to remove your gloves just to answer a text message or a call from your smartphone? But there's now a solution to this dilemma: smartphone friendly gloves that allow you to use your smartphone without having to remove them. I found these really nice touchscreen friendly gloves at Esprit.de and I just thought: this would  be perfect for the husband.

And there's a pair that's perfect for women too:

I just love them! Too bad I won't be here when it really gets too cold as I'll be away in a sunny, warm and tropical place. :)

Lovely Shoes For Your Little Fashionista

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On our way home from the Kindergarten, a parent asked me about my little girl's Barbie shoes. She asked where I bought them because her little girl also wanted one. Her daughter is turning a year older in the next few days and so she was frantically searching for something just like it at the shoe shops here and also online. She wanted to give it to her daughter as a bitthday present you see but her search is in vain. Since my husband was still in the Philippines on the day this parent approached me, I asked him if he could buy two pairs, one for my little girl and the other one for her friend at the Kindergarten. Thankfully, he agreed and even sent me photos of the cute, colorful and dainty designs. The material is made from sythetic leather and the outer sole is made of lightweight rubber (I think). 

Don't you just love these? Which one's your favorite?

My little girl's first pair is already "kaputt" so to speak, with the heel part slowly separating from the counter, and the synthetic material peeling off. It could be because of too frequent wear, with my little one tending to drag her feet while she walks. But whatever the reason, we need some fast cure clear adhesives (click here for a selection of other adhesives) FAST so we can put them again to use here at home during her impromptu ramp modeling sessions or in the next summer season. This also got me thinking as to whether I should ask the hubby to buy more so I can sell them to the little girls at the Kindergarten. ;)

Black and White Never Goes Out of Style

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Although the color of the season is GREEN, I can still see new styles in black and white gracing the windows of fashion shops in downtown Stuttgart.

I especially love Hallhuber's new winter collection: don the 60's look in graphic! These dresses from Hallhuber in Op-Art-prints, colorblocking and Jacquard design are simple and elegant and just eye-catching! I must have at least one (dreaming!) to update my winter wardrobe, which by the way, has become unwearable since I have gone maybe 2 sizes smaller. :D

Photos from Hallhuber.

So, which one is your favorite?

It's Stocking Season Once Again

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The days are shorter and the nights are getting colder... and it is the time of year for them good old stockings. They come in different shades and colors and materials, and different lengths too!

Knee-High Socks:

Source: ealuxe.com

Match your plaid and / striped combo with knee-high socks and you'll look as if you just got off from a fashion pictorial. :)

Overknees or Over-the-knee:

Source: (L) tumbler.com, (R) laurenconrad.com

If Overknee boots are not for you, you can wear the substitute: over-the-knee socks and still look chic in it. It's the trend this fall season. Plus it gives you the excuse to still wear your shorts, skirts and dresses with your favorite pumps or ballerinas without freezing in the cold.

Source: winterfashions.net

They also go well with ankle boots too!

Good old Tights:

Source: fallwinterfashiontrends.com

These will never go out of style and will always be a basic in autumn fashion. They come in bright colors, with patterns, volume elements and sometimes, embroidery too!

Upgrade your fall wardrobe now with a pair or two of these stockings or socks or whatever you call it and look your best this fall season!

Get That Summer Barbeque Look

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My husband is going to be hysterical if he sees my online shopping bills. Ever since I got home from a very long vacation in my home country (imagine almost 6 months!) and has gotten a bit smaller, it's like I'm in an online shopping frenzy. Most probably because each time I order something online, I have the right to return the unused item and in original packaging within 14 - 100 days, depending on the online shop.

And since it is summer here and grill or barbeque parties in the garden or at the park are IN, it would be nice to come "dressed" for the occasion. Nothing fancy... just something that will make you feel comfy about yourself and allow you to move freely while at the same time looking trendy and classy.

I found this really nice dress, a striped classic poloshirt and white bermuda shorts from my favorite online shop that will go pretty well with my beige PabDer shoes. I can already imagine myself eating a stick of veggie-cues (>_<), spending lazy days at the park or those relaxing walks along the beach...

Pab Der... So Comfy and Light

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My happy feet are happier now that I discovered PabDer. PadDer is an Italian brand that has several branches in the Philippines. Unfortunately, they don't have one in Davao yet so I was able to buy my pair in Ayala Cebu. 

This cream-colored loafers are just so comfy I would walk for hours on end without complaining. They are hand-made and the material is from very soft lamb leather. I am so totally satisfied with my own pair... and because they also come in other colors, I am oh so tempted to get my own collection of PabDer shoes. But since I am not really imeldific, I think one pair will do... I know it will be years and years before I purchase another one. Because you know me.... I only buy something for myself when I really need it. :)

And just look at their logo of sheep dogs... Aren't they just cute?

 

The Right Time to Shop Is NOW!

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I am here vacationing with my daughter in the Philippines. I miss the hubby, who is now back in cold Germany. When it gets too hot here, I would somehow wish for the cold and snowy Stuttgart, of building snowmen and going sledding, of hot chocolates and just cuddling and hugging at the living room on most lazy days. Another thing I miss: the WSV or the Winterschlussverkauf (Winter clearance sale) which is still ongoing, I think.

Source: http://www.bz-berlin.de

With most winter items gone 50-70% off the tag price, it would really be difficult to say NO and not shop! I could even shop online and ask hubby to send the items for me. :) But seriously, if you haven't done so and you are in Germany, don't miss out on the WSV! I know I wouldn't! The WSV started last January 4th and will end at the end of February. Different stores and shops, of course, have different schedules so be sure to check your local newspapers for the latest updates. 

Pearls Never Go Out of Style

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Freshwater pearls are the gems that have always and will forever be in style. All the latest trends and fashionista’s around the world incorporate them into every day wear. They are simply the easiest to work with because they not only complete all the outfits that seem nearly impossible, they also can be the beginning of a new family tradition. Thousands of women pass down their gems to younger generations, where pearls are the main gem that is passed down. 

As for pearl anklets those are unique. You may not see them as much, but they are sure out there. I know that everyone that has one loves them because they complete the outfit without being overbearing and pompous. Unlike bracelets, anklets are perfect for the summer; bracelets get in the way and are sometimes too much for an almost perfect outfit. They are subtle enough but give enough spice to an outfit that tops everything off.

Tungsten Rings For All Occasions

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Tungsten rings can be for an occasion. They used to only be used for a wedding or anniversary gift. Now these rings are being worn as promise rings, engagement rings, just about everything. There are a lot of people that love the fact that they can work with their hands all day without worrying about scratching their ring. So now there are more designs coming out for every occasion. There are even cufflinks, pendants and watches made out of tungsten. It is a great metal that is used for more than industrial tools.

If you can afford a precious metal you can look at the great selection of gold rings. Gold has been used for a very long time. There are many different types of gold. The three types most commonly used in jewelry is 10 karat, 14 karat, and 18 karat. 10 karat is the least pure and 18 karat is the most. 14 karat gold is 100 percent pure gold. The problem with 24 karat is that it is very soft. So it doesn’t hold up or wear very well.

Keep Warm with Peak Performance!

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Winter is finally here... It snowed for the first time last Tuesday but only for a while. The rain that followed after the snow fall just melted all the snow away. Today, the sun is smiling and shining after three days of wet, humid days. But soon, I know that it will snow.. really snow.

The temperature is still mind. It hasn't dropped below zero yet, but still, it IS cold. One should not take any chances and should or better yet, MUST dress warmly especially when going out. This winter, we are ready. We purchased new winter jackets the last time Outlet City Metzingen had their Sonntagsöffener Tür.

We were just browsing through the different stores when we chanced upon Peak Performance. They have a special offer on that day and I fell in love with the off white down jacket. There's also the  purchased winter jackets from Peak Performance Outlet Store in Outlet City Metzingen at a very good price -- for 70% off to be exact.


I recently wore it this week and I don't need to wear layers and layers of clothes anymore! All I have to wear is a shirt inside and then the jacket and I didn't feel cold at all! It really kept me warm and comfortable the entire day, thanks to the high quality goose down and fine fabric that ensures good insulation properties.

More about the Brand:

Our origins – "Passion for sport and nature"

Peak performance was established in 1986 in the Swedish Åre by professional skiers with a passion for sports, design and natural adventure. Today, we are an established international brand, but our values are still the same as when the company was establishment - we live, gather inspiration and develop with the same passion, which remains unchanged. We sum this up with the expression: "Living the Brand".

On our journey we have learned everything about the requirements for the appearance and functionality of clothing and equipment for active people. This has helped to make Peak Performance what it is today.

A constantly growing brand with an international network of independent dealers, own stores, franchise shops and sales in over 25 countries. Whatever we do, Peak Performance's basis will always be the classical "Mountain resort" and associated lifestyle. And we shall continue applying the simple philosophy to our products, which we had when the company was established: to create products that we like and use ourselves.

Why I Love Handmade Shoes...

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I am no stranger when it comes to buying shoes... I am, after all, a woman. I always feel sexy and beautiful each time I put on a peep-toe heel shoe. There is just something sexy and feminine about it. On ordinary days, you will find me wearing sneakers so you can say that it is not always that I buy "womanly" shoes and on those rare occasions that I would, well, I have the tendency to look for handmade ones. Why do I love them? Let me enumerate why...

I find handmade shoes really durable, especially if they are made from genuine leather. Since they are hand-made, you are sure that every detail is made with great care. With proper care, they can even last for many years.

Handmade shoes are meant for your feet. It's like having second skin. They usually do not hurt your soles and heels unlike most commercial shoes do, especially the custom made ones which are really made according to your actual foot measurements.

Handmade shoes reflect your personality. With a variety of designs and materials available, there is sure a pair that will suit your personality best!

Handmade shoes are unique in their own way. You can be sure that no two pairs are the same since each stitch is never alike!

Handmade shoes never go out of style! They will always be classic and sophisticated and that my friend, is something that will remain for many years to come...

Disclaimer: I am participating in a blogger campaign by Bucks2Blog and was compensated. However, the views and opinions are my own.

Vikki Needs Protection

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It has been almost two months now since I got Vikki and I have no complaints. She is perfect and I don't have any problems, except maybe for the times when our Internet connection will go bonkers and I cannot use Vikki to surf the net and do my online tasks. That is of course, not Vikki's fault but our ISP's.

Anyway, Vikki needs protection. Since I wasn't able to purchase my Epiphanie bag yet, I just carry her around in my backpack. To protect her from dust and from shock, I just cover her with my wool shawl. But I know that is not enough so I took the liberty of ordering a laptop that has the same color as her. I ordered it via Amazon and it is from Samsonite. I hope that it will arrive soon so that when I carry Vikki around, I won't have to worry about her getting a scratch.

This is how it looks like on Amazon and fits laptops up to 14.1" display. It is available in two colors: silver and black and of course, I chose silver. If you are looking for a laptop sleeve, you may also like this Samsonite Aramon 2 laptop sleeve. I can't wait to use it on Vikki. I hope it comes soon!

My PF Sneakers

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I blogged about this new sneakers that I purchased a few weeks back and I was so excited for the day to come when I get it in my possession. Well, I actually got it eons ago. I just wasn't able to blog about it so much.

So how was it? It was really a great addition and a great alternative to my running shoes. But when I first wore it, it was an agony (as is usually the case when you wear new footwear)! Maybe my feet were not so used to wearing such flat sneakers. Thankfully though, the sole was soft and I didn't even get blisters on my feet, especially at the contour of my heels. I also have flat feet so I guess it wasn't such a brilliant idea to be wearing really flat shoes. But the next day, I wore it again and thankfully, my feet no longer felt uncomfortable. I guess the sneakers has adapted to the shape of my feet.

It is now one of my favorite pairs. It is very easy to wear, especially if I need to rush because I am already late for my lectures. Hehe! And in this warm weather, it is not a problem as the material does not feel warm.

I Want An Epiphanie Clover!

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It was 2009 when we took Nikki home, a Nikon D5000 DSLR. She was relatively expensive when we bought her that time but it was a very good buy since we were to take really great photos at a very high resolution. But since then, Nikki always goes unprotected. For so many unreasonable reasons, I still wasn't able to buy her a camera bag or even just a "protective cover" to protect it from bumps, scratches and dust. I guess I have kept withholding buying one and I keep waiting for the right time to come when I can finally buy a camera bag that will suit both her and me.

You see, I want to be a little different and trendy too when so that what I really want is an Epiphanie bag. I have nothing against the tradition camera bag except that they look so masculine. And I really want a "cute girly camera bag". I have known about Epiphanie bags since 2010 and have vowed ever since to buy myself one. It has been more than a year and until now, I still haven't gotten around to purchasing one. There are five different designs to choose from and one that I fancy right now is the new Clover design that is available in pink, grey and turquoise.

The Clover design costs $184.99 and has the following features (Source: the Epiphanie website):

Dimensions (LxWxH) 18x 6.25 x13 inches. Exterior is water-resistant, high quality synthetic leather. Interior crafted with extra padding for maximum equipment protection. Velcro panels can be adjusted and moved to any position for maximum customization and flexibility. Removable cross-body strap with padding for extra support. Two exterior pockets, one with zipper. Zipper top closure, with one zippered interior pocket. BAG CAN HOLD: 1 15" macbook pro with battery cord,1 camera body with lens attached, 1 long lens, 2 extra lenses, wallet, keys, cell phone, and other miscellaneous personal items.

Wow! At this size, it can already hold this much? Is that amazing or what? I definitely have to get this one. Now I must shop! Lol! :D

Sneakers, See You Soon!

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I have been itching to buy me-self some much needed sneakers. My running shoes are not that very comfortable and not that very chic to wear to the university on a daily basis. As a rule, sneakers are for daily wear and running shoes are well, for running or any other sports activities. I would always get some "look" each time I am seen wearing one. There is nothing wrong really with a pair of running shoes but sneakers go better with those good old jeans, even skirts of shirt dresses.

So I decided to buy myself a new pair of sneakers. I initially wanted this white Lacoste Marcel low sneaker online but I just find it very pricey. A pair costs €79,99 at Zalando.de, with free shipping. So I searched some more and finally decided on this PF Flyers Center Low retro shoes which I found at Sneakerhead.com which costs €56,77 inclusive of international shipping. I am excited to receive it. I already received an confirmation email saying that I will receive it at the end of the day of May 30. I am uber excited! I just hope it fits perfectly. Mal sehen.

Will Skinny Jeans Look Good On Me?

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Skinny jeans hug the body through the hips and thighs. They are meant to flatter your silhouette by poviding a "slimming" effect, so pick this fit if u want a pair of jeans that creates a youthful look.

I have always loved people watching especially when I am in high pedestrian-traffic areas. I get to see different people from all ages and sizes and I get an idea on what's trendy these days, no matter what body shape and size you may have. I have been seeing women wearing skinny jeans but I am not sure whether it would be the right kind of pair to buy. The problem: I have a big booty and wide hips so I am not sure whether it will look good on me or make me look heavier. Another problem area is my tummy so I need to wear something that will help tuck them in.

I am actually considering taking a girl friend that next time I go shopping for clothes. That way, I will have somebody who will advice me which one looks good on me and which one doesn't. Maybe I will try on a few skinny jeans and see how I look in them. I am also considering shopping online. There are lots of nice styles that I see on the Internet but I don't know how I will look in them. But then again, I can always return the item within 14 days if they don't fit me or if they don't look good on me.

Tamaris Wedge Pumps

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Love shoes? I know I do... aside from the home department section, I always find myself checking out shoe shops for some great bargains and nice designs. I so wanted to own a pair of wedge pumps and although I would only be able to use them occasionally because I am more of the sneaker-type of person, I think it would be nice if I have a pair ready. I have been searching far and wide and I guess my searching is over because I found a pair online.

Isn't she a beauty? It is from Tamaris and is made of soft genuine leather, has trendy wedge heels and a heel height of 40mm or around 1.5 inches, which is the heel height that I can tolerate. This particular design is available in three colors: pepper, blue and gray. This will just be perfect for me, don't you think? Should I order now or not... Hmmm.... I'm thinking, I'm thinking...

The Worst Dressed in the Golden Globes 2011

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I love to look at Hollywood stars all dressed up in their thousand-dollars-worth gowns for one of the most prestigious awards night known to man, the Golden Globe Awards. And I can't help but say Oohhh for those who dressed up so well and a big Uh-uh! for those who don't fit well in their designer dresses.

Of the many stars who glammed up for the night, here are some of those who made it to the Worst Dressed List:

January Jonesd in a bright red peekaboo Versace gown, which is made entirely of flowy fringe with some dangerous cutouts.

Julian Moore in a hot pink Lanvin gown. The color is bold, but the shapeless, strangely asymmetrical style is just screaming "worst."

Helena Bonham Carter sporting her signature wild hair, a mess of a Vivienne Westwood dress and mismatched red and green shoes.

Natalie Portman  in a Viktor & Rolf pink satin dress. The pastel pink is great, but the sequined rose is uninspired at best.

Jennifer Love Hewitt in an icy pale blue Romona Caveza gown with a fussy flyaway top and a too-high hairdo. 

Jennifer Lopez in a bright white Zuhair Murad dress. The sheer bedazzled bolero ruins any positive buzz she had going.

Leighton Meester in a blah Burberry Prorsum gown. The muted colors, long sleeves and a very modest slit put this unflattering and un-wowing look at the lowest point on the list.

Tilda Swinton in a Jil Sander champagne skirt, white shirt and pink pumps.

Halle Berry in a black Nina Ricci dress.

These I gathered from various sources on the Internet. Who's the worst dressed for you? You be the judge!