Saving by Re-Purposing and Restyling

Would you believe that the flower accent on mys sister's hairpiece used to be a brooch?

Do you splurge away paycheck after paycheck on shopping for the latest clothes and accessories? I used to be one too. Every pay day, I’d like to reward myself for days of being cooped up in a cubicle; and the best therapy for me was: SHOPPING! There was a time when my closet was bursting at the seams with so many things. In retrospect, I exhibited a consumer-driven lifestyle which was, I realized, a failed attempt to fulfill a void of discontent.

Eventually, I realized that shopping for new items every now and then was not the answer. Of course, for a girl who loves dressing up, I still shop from time to time, but now I geared towards common sense and practicality, rather than impulses. I’ve since learned the principle of restyling and re-purposing “old” articles of clothing to fashion accessories.

Another set of re-purposed accessories. All pendants for these necklaces used to be brooches. 

Practical Tip: Keep your box of accessories up to date without having to spend too much money. Think twice before throwing away your old accessories. You can always have them restyled. 

Re-purposing has its own perks. First, you get to save and keep your money for the rainy days. Second, you are doing the planet a favor. If you choose to recycle and re-purpose products made of raw materials from our natural resources, you are helping preserve the environment. Conscious consumerism can make a difference. Third, restyling can be an outlet for creativity and  a platform to convey your own unique sense of style.- PJV

How to Wear your Embellished Necklace

Most women are intimidated to wear statement embellished necklaces, wary that such costume jewelries are inappropriate to wear casually or to the office. Statement necklaces are often stereotyped as one worn by red carpet stars, glamor models, and fashion trend setters.  "Ordinary" women can appreciate the piece, but are seemingly hesitant to wear one. The key to wearing a statement piece is knowing which outfit to wear it with, in addition to an aura of CONFIDENCE. What truly brings out the beauty of an embellished necklace is to first visualize yourself wearing it effortlessly. Keep in mind that wearing pretty things such as a statement necklace is a pointless exercise if you don't feel pretty wearing it. The proper use of accessories should bring out the best in you.

Attending a strictly formal affair?  Forget the flashy all-beaded gowns; invest in one or two statement necklaces that you can wear with the basics when the party's done. Before buying, check your wardrobe: choose an embellished necklace that reflects your personality and unique sense of style. Do not make the mistake of buying whimsically; the piece must be in synergy with your overall wardrobe .

Here's to showing you how practical embellished necklaces tucked in your closet can be!

1. Wear it on a casual day

2. Wear it to the office with your basic corporate blouse

 

3. Wear it with your favorite LBD 

 4. Wear it over your cocktail dress

 
Sources for the clothes: www.polyvore.com

Accessorizing anytime, anywhere

Last weekend, I had to be at an event where we were required to wear our national costumes.  It was a Global Leaders Summit attended by YFC's from Canada, Australia, Singapore, Kenya, USA, and the Philippines, and I was part of the production team.  If you are a Filipino commuting from QC to the Mall of Asia in Pasay City, in this unpredictable weather and with a laptop and camera in your backpack, you might have some apprehensions about wearing a Filipiniana costume.  It's really impractical!  And taking a cab will set you back too much, given the horrid traffic in the city.  What's a girl to do?

Then I realized, if there was something that could help me achieve the effect but won't leave me worrying about accidentally tearing the delicate pina of the baro't saya, it was the RIGHT ACCESSORY!

I didn't want to wear a terno or a saya, so i grabbed an old tribal-looking, woven fabric at home--it's probably a table runner--and wrapped it around like a skirt under a black mini.  I wore it with a basic white button-down blouse and completed the look with a huge embellished bib from Palamuti (Stillness of the Butterfly, Wildlife collection) that was beaded in tribal colors too and voila! Instantly cool outfit! It was quite unique, I felt great, and I was 100% comfortable.  I had no trouble moving around the place or commuting either.

Everyday, we get dressed to go to work or to school and sometimes it can be a hassle to look good.  There's always so many things to consider--the event, venue, the weather, the mode of transport.  But if there is one thing that can make you look good without leaving you to sacrifice comfort or safety, it's good accessories!  So whether yours is a statement necklace or eyecatching earrings or a classic belt that cinches the waist, use it to your advantage! You can be practical and still be pretty!