RagsIIRichesxAranaz=Fashion with Social Responsibility

Style icons and fashion enthusiasts converged at the North Court of Rockwell Center’s Power Plant Mall in Makati City for the Rags2Riches (RIIR) by ARANAZ Holiday Collection 2012. Entitled “Nudos,” the Spanish translation for “knots,” the second collaboration of RIIR and ARANAZ exudes boldness and enduring elegance. Created by one of the most respected and in-demand homegrown designers today, Amina Aranaz-Alunan has raised the fashion ante by making eco-ethical style an in-trend fashion statement.

“The Nudos collection is handwoven by our Rags2Riches Cooperative in Payatas and assembled by our in-house workshop. All knots for this collection, which are new artisan techniques introduced by Amina specifically for these bags and accessories, were handmade in our in-house workshop by our highly skilled, full-time artisans. Our hope is that with the success of this collection, these beautiful fashion accessories and new artisan skills can be extended to all Rags2Riches communities,” said Reese Fernandez, president for Rags2Riches.

RIIR artisans are known for their weaving skills primarily using upcycled scrap fabric. The versatility of the fabric lends itself nicely to different textures and techniques. For the RIIR by ARANAZ collection, designer Amina Aranaz-Alunan was inspired to play around with various kinds of knots, a new technique which introduced a different texture to the stylish pieces.
“I had a book about making knots and decided to play around with the scrap fabrics,” shared Alunan.

RIIR’s collections have captured the attention of the fashion world since it launched eco-ethical style in the Philippines in 2007. It has gained a steady following among fashion cliques in Manila, Asia and Europe, with illustrious personalities being seen donning an ensemble with an RIIR piece.

RIIR and ARANAZ sets the trend for bags and accessories
A visually stimulating art installation was the backdrop for the latest line of must-have bags and accessories from RIIR and ARANAZ. Guests also marveled at the haute couture gowns provided by Tina Daniac, while music by internationally- acclaimed violinist Coke Bolipata and pianist Jourdann Petalver created the ambient mood during the exclusive black and gold affair.

Noteworthy about the RIIR and ARANAZ holiday collaboration are the sumptuous colors and intricate weaving techniques that were highlighted in all the accessories. The adherence to eco-ethical style makes every RIIR accessory one-of-a-kind. Stand-out pieces in the RIIR by ARANAZ Nudos line include the “Amara,” a braided clutch with wooden frame accent, removable antique chain strap and magnetic closure; “Lazada,” a molded clutch in abaca with braided trim detail and knotted cotton flap with magnetic closure; “Sobre,” an envelope clutch in x-small basket weave, jute flap and knotted braided accent with interior pocket; and “Cartera,” a purse in knitted cotton x-small basket weave, knotted ball puller and cotton lining with interior pocket. “Pulsera,” a cuff bracelet with knotted braid accent and vachetta leather with golden snap closure, simply commands attention. “Lazo,” a necklace with three cotton knot pendants, braided cotton strap with braided string, antique chain and suede string accents, is reminiscent of vintage sophistication. “Cuello,” a knotted cotton braid choker with braided string, antique chain and suede string strap, transcends the unique balance of restraint and innovation.

“RIIR by Aranaz Nudos Holiday Collection is an audacious attempt to bring fashion forward. Each stylish piece is unique and exquisite. It speaks to the chic, independent, elegant and empowered women of today who embody the eco-ethical lifestyle,” said Fernandez.

RIIR by ARANAZ Nudos Holiday Collection was presented by RCBC Diamond MasterCard, Visual Mannequin Solution (VMS) and Power Plant Mall.

MANGO Opens H.E by MANGO and MANGO Touch in the Philippines

MANGO, which opened its first store in Barcelona's Passeig de Gracia in 1984, now has over 2,500 stores in 109 countries. It is Spain's second biggest fashion export company and its concept is based on an alliance between a quality product, in accordance with the latest fashion trends and an affordable price

Callalilly's Album Flower Power Officially Launched

Are you a "Callalista" meaning you rave just about any of Callalily's songs! Then there's another reason for you to rave because their new album is officially out- "Flower Power"

Why "Flower Power"? , Kean Cipriano, the band's lead vocalist said," Since Callalily is really known as a "Flower" then it's like unleashing the "power of the flower".

The album's new song "Pasasalamat" is now currently at the Myx's Top 10 Hit chart. And here's more you can also download it at My Music Store www.mymusicstore.com.ph

And on Friday, Oct.12,2012 at Eastwood Mall open tent, just buy their album and have it signed by Callalily in flesh!

Don't forget to follow them on Twitter.com/Callalilyband

AZTA URBAN SALON: IONIC KERATIN Is A Must-Have for Colored-Manes Like Mine!

Every once in while it's nice to embrace change. A change in how you or what you eat? In how you dress or even how you decide to have that "Not-Your-Usual" Hair color. Just a week ago , I got my precious mane its much needed "hair" make-over, but I concentrated on changing and getting a more "braver" color.

They say blond highlights are for those who have white-skin, but for me I -I BEG TO DISAGREE. Every one has a right to try what she/he wants.

So I got it dyed and with some highlights at Fanny Serrano Salon in Tomas Morato. In less than a week, I noticed that it dried a bit. Some say its natural it dried a bit because of the chemicals used in coloring my hair. So what to do now?

A friend suggested about giving it (my mane) its much needed nourishing treatment. A treatment that will bring back its fullness and color. She said that I try IONIC KERATIN Hair treatment. I googled it and it says that its best for rebonded and Hair Color treated hair.

The next question is, where to have that treatment. I have been thinking and considering Azta Urban Salon (for the longest time) but been having thoughts that treatments might be a little too "pricey" with them. I was so decided that this is the right time to trust my instincts. So out on a rainy Thursday, I went to Azta Urban Salon Robinson's MetroEast.

Azta Urban Salon Metro East is just one ride a way from where I live. It is located at The 3rd level of Robinson's MetroEast. This branch is so spacious and mind you they have strong wi-fi connection, hahaha ! I got so excited with that thought, that I'll be able to share how the treatment goes over my Facebook account :) And upon arriving at their door, I am greeted by the very warm and accommodating smile of the one's in charge of their reception.

Their Senior stylist ushered me to seat over the treatment room where they have to wash my hair first.

AZTA URBAN SALON Robinson's Metroeast

From L-R (Top): Wash my hair first and then put the Keratin Treatment on my hair in leave it for 20 mins. L-R (Bottom): I requested that I want to put my hair under steam) and then after 20 mins., it's blow-drying time! Just don't forget to take Shampoo and conditioners in between to make your hair color last.

This was the pictures I took after the treatment and I was happy with the results. And to my surprise, they gave me a "reminder" -On what to do or not do after the treatment. It just goes to show that they also consider giving a reminder to busy clients like me; which at times I tend to forget "verbal" reminders so with that "written" reminder (which was my first time to get a reminder from any salon that I've been to)  I'm sure not to forget how to take care of my hair.

They also have a lot of Hair Care items which are mostly from reputable Hair Care brands.

They have an ongoing promo with Cash Cash Pinoy -Ionic Keratin treatment for only Php299 if you buy the voucher online while if not the treatment is Php700 (for hair length just like mine).

Actually I proved myself wrong because I thought the services at Azta Urban Salon is so expensive. But hey that was also nice to be wrong , err sometimes? I was surprised that their hair treatments like the ones I got only ranges from Php500 up; depends on your hair length and what kind of hair treatment.

Before and After

This was my "Before and After" photo. And I am happy with the results. The treatment pulled back to life the dryness that it had when I gave it a new hair color. And more importantly, it wasn't that much of stash in my budget. It paid off. Wait I forgot to tell that the treatment also comes with a back massage. That was a "real" value for my money. I think I'm gonna consider of going back again at Azta Urban Salon because Hair pampering is not that pricey and their staff are very nice approachable too!

Just another reminder, don't forget to call and place an appointment at any Azta Urban Salon because they already have satisfied clients that keeps on coming back from time to time. Make sure you have an appointment so that you won't have to wait long. And oh, don't forget to check out their other treatments, they also have body care/spa services.

Like them Facebook /Twitter: www.Facebook.comAztaUrbanSalon

                                                   www.twitter.com/AztaUrbanSalon

AZTA URBAN SALON Metroeast

3rd Level /Robinson's Metroeast Mall

Tel.# 681-21-07

Open Monday-Sunday 10am-9pm

SM CITY San Lazaro 3-Day Sale Shopping and MORE

As promised, I am sharing my Day 1 of the SM City San Lazaro 3-Day Sale Madness. I am one LRT ride away from SM San Lazaro. This community mall won my heart because of its quaint and positive-looking facade that never fails to give me positive vibes when ever I visit it.

Of course, as always I failed to shop during the 10-12nn special discount offer for SMAC cardholders during its first day. I overslept, that's the reason, but surely that's no reason for me to wake up and bond with my fellow bloggers who's up and ready for a whole day of fun mall-hopping and shopping at SM City San Lazaro.

My shopping pals that day was Rain of (www.raindeocampo.wordress.com), Michelle Coladilla (www.galmourmoments.net), Ayzee (www.chilipinay.blogspot.com), and Azrael (www.azraelsmerryland.blogspot.com).

I was so glad I did my shopping and mall hopping with this group of awesome peeps, though I apologized for being so late.

Anyways, here's how we started our SM CITY SAN LAZARO mall-hopping and and food-trip.

Because they waited too long, It will be a great pep for us to start it all with a "late" lunch, and we all agreed to eat at Wendy's!

We all agreed that we missed Wendy's so much, that we all have the same wish after eating--Please bring back the SALAD BAR!!!

What we ordered is way different if you are Wendy's fan. Since Wendy's Real Meal Deals were the new offerings of Wendy's; we all agreed to order Beef Steak and and the Spring Rolls.

CRUNCHY SPRING ROLLS (Php49 only).
Taste the difference between the other spring rolls in the market and you will see the "difference".

BEEF STEAK 

1pc( Php49)

2pc (P69)

These are not your ordinary Beef Steak! The patties used here are the same patties used for their burgers.

These are just two of the many Wendy's Real Meal Deals! You can now enjoy meals that starts at a minimum of Php49  and if you an additional 12oz Coke drink, all you need is add Php10. Need not to worry, because here are the remaining Wendy's Real Meal deals: Chili Con Carne Rice, Spaghetti, and Macaroni Side Salad.

After "reminiscing" those 'ol memories with their salad, me and the rest of the gang decided what SM CITY San Lazaro has to offer for their 3-Day Sale!

OUR HOME, SM Dept. Store concentrated retail of Home fixtures and accents is having their 50% off Great Sale -SOFA SALE. 

This comfy yet minimal in design-kind-of-sofa will have to patiently waiting in my bucket list for the meantime. We've just moved on to a new house and have to give up our old and bigger sofa, so this one has to wait till we have new house to move in.

But looking at how comfy and warm the hues of these "pillows" (if I'm not mistaken) which you can sit while watching TV in the den, is definitely a must-have for someone like me who has penchant for watching TV a lot.

SOFA-Hopping can be fun but for people who are "innately" lucky will find this yummy moon-cake game more fun!

It's officially "Happy Mooncake Festival" today at all SM SUPERMALLS, so Mooncake fans..

Grab these yummy mooncakes and bring as "pasalubongs" to your family!

Wondering what was long lines for? Is Papa Chen or Sir Chief, gracing the MoonCake Festival?

Nope! Everyone's trying their luck with the "dice-game". You can play this with a minimum purchase of Php500 and be ready to win prizes!

Everyone's busy in the Main Atrium of the mall, not just to win some moon cakes?!? But also to win some.........

3 Yamaha Mio Fino will be raffled off to 3 lucky shoppers. One just have to shop minimum of Php1,000 to avail of the raffle stub. Awesome!

The SM Department Store

With my experience in 3-day sales like this, SM CITY SAN LAZARO, was so far the highest and with the most wide-ranged when it comes to items on sale! So on their next 3-Day Sale , I hope I'll be losing more weight so that even the nice tees or blouses on sale will suit me!

After that feet-gobbling mall trip, it's time to pamper ourselves at BEAUTY and BUTTER. That day till Sept.30, 2012 Beauty and Butter will be having 10% off for every service the shoppers will avail.

Beauty and Butter was previously located at the 2nd Floor but now it is strategically located at the lower ground to join other beauty and wellness-offering services.

I chose to have my mani-pedi service and I'm glad (the girl in front of me)my  Nail technician was very accommodating. And did I tell you that I "fancy" their hairbands!

This how my nail art looked like. I'm a bit unhappy on how it looked because it isn't the same with the sample nail art. But just the same I wanted to give my nail tech an "A" for effort.


That afternoon wouldn't be same without ending it with something "sweet" and tummy filling! We ended the day with piping-hot bibingka from Antonio's Bibingka+Coffee.

 

MOVIES2WATCH: This GuyIn Love With You Mare!

What do you expect if the movies stars Vice Ganda, The Multimedia Star Toni Gonzaga and Luis Manzano? Expect tons of laughter!

I've been a fan of Toni Gonzaga's films even before and she never fails to plant a smile on my face whenever I watch her onscreen.

Toni Gonzaga plays the role of "Gemma", who's being pursued here by Lucky Manzano who once had a relationship with the character of Vice Ganda in the movie.  With Vice Ganda's heart broken, he gets by courting Gemma, and with Gemma falling in love with Vice's character too.

Toni was asked during the blogger's con, what are the challenges she encountered during the movie. She said that it was being in focus during the shoot because everyone in the set is having fun, that there are no dull moments during the set.

More about the Blogger's conference here on my SocialCam account, click here.


Be sure to hit the movie theaters, and be prepared to laugh fro start to finish of the movie!

THIS GUY'S IN LOVE WITH YOU MARE hits the theaters on Oct 10, 2012!

"Coffee Prince" press launch to be streamed online tonight

GMA Network will be launching to the members of the press tonight its latest primetime offering, "Coffee Prince" starring Aljur Abrenica and Kris Bernal. Netizens may "tune-in" online via GMA's media portal, www.gmanetwork.com.

Follow "Coffee Prince" (Philippine Version) on Facebook at www.facebook.com/coffeeprincegma and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/gmacoffeeprince

The live streaming of the presscon begins at 7:00pm tonight and may be accessed via www.gmanetwork.com/livestreaming.

"Coffee Prince" is the Philippine adaptation of the popular Korean romantic comedy series of the same title, which drew in high TV ratings when it first aired on GMA-7.