I’m really glad that summer is here and that it’s the season for cropped tops and short shorts. It’s freakishly every where in Cebu and if I couldn’t go to work in shorts and a shirt, I seriously think I would have dropped dead by now.
Work is definitely going to keep me preoccupied this summer so I doubt I’m going to have any legit escapades this year. I’m really bummed because Paolo and I won’t be able to make it to our annual Bohol trip for our friends birthday and I could definitely use the beach!
But if I’m not going to be able to make it to the beach, I might as well feel like I’m there anyways! I’m really happy that I was persistent on buying these shorts at Gaisano Carcar for P250.00 (I’m really a cheap skate like that, yeah?). It took me two weeks of convincing and weird dreams to actually get that and I’m actually really glad that I did.
Sometimes it can be a bit hard to buy (who am I kidding, that’s the fun part) and actually put multiple outfits together with pieces that are so big and bold because they’re soo memorable but hopefully, I’ll be able to use these shorts more than once. We’ll see. You’ll see. #waitforit haha
As for my top, would you believe that I had it made in 20 minutes?? Yes friends.,I am finally taking advantage of the family business and using it to my own selfish advantages. hehe. It’s a very repetitive yet simple process. I take a bath, pick out what I want to wear, realize that I don’t actually have that piece of clothing, run to our production area, ask our head sewer to whip it up for me (she knows my measurements) and in a few minutes I’m out the door! But actually, before that our sewers make me walk around and show them what I’m wearing. They get a kick out of me actually dressed up and not in house clothes. Go figure.
I had a really rough day at work and decided that I was done. Thank the Gods in the heavens that Justinne was at home mixing so I decided to crash her place.
Here are some random photos of us fooling around:
See you guys later at the Sprockets Cafe for the Create Your Own Brownie Cake! #cyobc I’m going to coerce Justinne into giving me that overnight stay and THEN, I’m going to win first place at Slogos night… because I can.
xx,
Issa Perez
p.s. Sorry for the sloppy writing. My head is so weird today.
I admit I’ve been a bit off with my timing lately. I totally forgot about the graduation season (although one of my very close friends just graduated) and it’s a ga-zillion degrees outside yet as I am typing these very words, I am covered in 2 layers of clothing and a jacket. #insaneinthemembrane
I can only think of a million posts I could’ve shared with you guys like “tips of what to wear for graduation” or something of the like but instead, I’m going to share my sentiments with you. You know, I sort of think that’s better.
Sorry but I just HAD to post my graduation picture (to be appropriate) but don’t worry, I won’t steal your facebook thunder by making this my profile picture. Not pointing any fingers. Or am I? *smirk*
Let me tell you a funny story…
I only found out I was viable to graduate on the night before our graduation itself… at around 8:00 in the evening! Clearance signing is a bit different if you’re a nursing student and let me tell you, the road to my graduation was a long, bumpy and agonizing road!
To make a long and very emotional story short, I eventually did graduate after a lot of tears, pleading and raging. On the day of my graduation, and I think everyone of CDU BSN 2012 can attest to this, I was perhaps the most emotional person amongst all 700+ of us. Man was I a mess! I cried to entire time from the graduation march to the receiving of diplomas and I was even crying when I received my special sports award. There are no nice pictures of that day, I tell you!
And honestly, I wasn’t crying because I was sad that I was leaving college. I was crying because I was relieved that I was finally done with it because I strongly disliked college. I was lifted because my 4 years of torture had come to an end, I was free from fulfilling other people’s dreams (nursing. Need I say more?) and I was ecstatic to finally start fulfilling my own.
So my message to all the graduates is:
Congratulations! It’s time to start making your dreams a reality. Carefully but diligently fill your book with lessons from the real world- travel, fall in love with life, get a new hobby and learn as much as you can. Learn the things that college could never teach you and let nothing hold you back now because, nothing should be holding you back! Correct your mistakes, make up for lost time, get lost and find yourself in the wreckage. Do something out of the box, findyour dream job and try not to settle for less. Find your direction or at least try to map out where you want to be and where you’re headed. Don’t let the past traumatize you and don’t let the future intimidate you. And please, do it for me, enjoy every passing moment. The world is yours for the taking and isn’t that invigorating?
Change is inevitable and even my mom can vouch for that (despite how old she is) so don’t just roll with the punches, be a bad ass bitch and punch back! Be grateful everyday no matter how hard it is and always try to remember, things could be worse- you could be wearing an expensive mink coat and have animal rights activists cover you in paint and set you on fire! And lastly, don’t forget the people who’ve always had your back. Success isn’t fun when you have no one to share it with.
Be realand if you’re closet gay, it’s high time you admit. You don’t have to carry that baggage anymore and everyone will just be relieved that you’re not the only person who doesn’t know it anymore. (Ok the last one doesn’t really count. Just a dose of my weekly frustrations. hehe)
And since you have a few more months before you actually have to find a job, why not try something amazing on your last “real” summer by enhancing your photography skills with Australia based Filipina photographer, Malu Dingal! (great segway, right? uh huh, uh huh)
For only 8 days, Malu Dingal, will share her expertise on Engagement/ Pre- nup photoshoots from May 15 to May 23 at The Movenpick Hotel, Mactan.
For those who are hoping to make a career out of photography or for those who want to brush up on any skills or learn from someone else, this opportunity is definitely something you should look out for!
[secretly screaming inside: why is everybody getting married?!?! in a frustrated/ terrified voice. There is still PLENTY of time for me, right? #nopressure]
For more details/ inquiries check out Malu Dingal’s official website:
HAPPY SUMMER, EVERYONE!
Fashion posts coming up soon!
xx,
Issa Perez
Aside from the new layout, a lot of things in my life has changed lately. I don’t know how many times I’ve mentioned this but in case you’ve been out of the loop of what seems to be my crazy life, I am currently running our family business. And this may sound like something wonderful in it’s own state but let me tell you, it’s… well, I’m still not sure. lol
As much as I love being able to manage my own time, I don’t necessarily start work at 8:00 and end at 6:00- I am almost alwaysworking. And that doesn’t even touch the surface of things! Since I’m in charge of everything except for finances, I need to do time tabling for our production, purchasing and meet with clients (which is often times the most tiring part of the job).
Aside from working with my family, I also had to “sort of” move back in. I say sort of because I sleep at my parents house on the weekdays and I go back to my place on the weekends. But since Paolo moved to the province and I try my best to spend weekends there, I sort of feel like I don’t really have a permanent address anymore.
I entitled this post A New Perspective because my life has really changed in the last few months. I’ve been taking on bigger responsibilities, I got an assistant and I’m just really trying to be a big girl now and mark my territory on this tiny city I call home. I don’t think I see things the way I used to see them and since this is after all a fashion blog first and foremost- I guess I can say the same about clothes.
I’m pretty sure every girl in the world has done this at least once in her life!
One of the down sides about not having a permanent place to stay is that you have to plan your outfits ahead unless you can afford to travel from one place to another AND still have time to visit clients. So to address the problem, I’ve resorted to drawing because 1. I find it very relieving and 2. It helps me organize and picture out what I like. I also label them because well, I’m a very weird person and I don’t know why this still surprises you!
One thing I’ve learned from avoiding the commute from the South to the Metropolis is that you can never go wrong with a white polo shirt. Duh! It’s not uncommon and I’ve practically overused this rule but gosh, who am I kidding? I’m a white polo girl foreverrr. There’s just something about a crisp white polo that fixes everything and instantly screams, “I mean business! TAKE ME SERIOUSLY!” which is usually what I’m trying to portray when my clients think it’s funny that a 12 year old is handling a family business. #thatshitseriouslygetsold
So whether you’re 12, 20 or 60- never be ashamed to whip out that bad boy! With the help of the right accessories, it’s easy to achieve the look you want. I decided to wear my bib necklace that I got as a birthday gift from Justinne because I thought they went along great with the new loafers I scored when I went to the province. I’m always such a sucker for cheap finds and I kid you not, I will over use them!
Loafers from Car car @ P240.00 Scratch on my left foot from falling into a canal playing with my dogs @ Priceless
I don’t know what side of the world you’re on right now but from where I’m from- the sun is out and is unforgiving!
In my opinion, Summer is either the best or the worst time of the year because: (and let me run this by you real quick:)
IT’S THE BEST SEASON BECAUSE:
– It’s the perfect time to go to the beach
IT’S THE WORST SEASON OF THE YEAR BECAUSE:
– I no longer have summer vacations
– I like to dress in layers
But in total contradiction to what I just said ^^), I tried my best to welcome the blazing summer by dressing down (braless and everything. It just had to be done!)
I really love my Blind Clothingslip on dress (I’ve already worn it here) and I’m really glad that this is a complete contrast to my first version- this look definitely shows a more playful and youthful side of me. And, how lucky was I that it went along great with a DIY project my sister gave me? #perksofthebusiness
Although I won’t be able to enjoy a full pledge summer vacation, I’m still looking forward to quick beach trips with friends and family. I can’t wait to be more adventurous with my looks this summer especially because I plan to be posting a lot more often in the next months to come… so watch out for that! Hopefully, no more backlogs! HAHA.
I should probably post this before it becomes outdated.
Damn it, I’m always doing that- waiting too long to post ’til it becomes inappropriate.
Sorry!!
When I wore this outfit (months ago!!), Cebu was still going through its crazy, weird weather where it would be raining one moment and them BOOM! it would be raining sweat the next. And well, with weather like that, you really don’t know what to expect. So instead, you prepare.
Moments like these are when I try my best to cover myself enough if things go south, I can easily cover myself up with a cardigan or a scarf.
And how convenient was it that I had a striped top that matches my skater skirt? Coincidence? I think not. #outfitplanning
For anyone who came here to see something wonderful of some sort and ended up seeing this dreary post of an outfit, maybe I should apologize.
But if Taylor Swift can get away dressed in something so simple and yet still look fab, then so can I!
Belated Pit Senyor to all my Cebuanos out there! I hate to be on the Sinulog hangover bandwagon but hey, I’m not going to enjoy Sinulog as much when I’m old and saggy so I might as well gloat in it now.
Oh Sinulog, the mother of all Filipino street parties, you just keep getting better and better!
I’m proud to say that this year was my most sober Sinulog to date but the experience was bountiful and memory filled… exactly how I like my festivities- Sober enough to remember it 😉
There’s just something about the color black that is soo irresistible. And I know almost everyone’s fashion resolutions are to wear more color in their wardrobes but I’m just not in that place right now… Black is essential and so is having a formal black dress!
I don’t own a LBD (little black dress) mostly because I’d never really have anywhere to wear it. But when you’re 23 and attending client meetings on a weekly basis, the cut, the material and the style of this dress will do you wonders! I totally look young, fashionable but mostly professional, right? Right?
That days random read: The English Roses – Big Sister Blues by Madonna
Currently Reading: The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
So you guys, I’ve realized that I’ve gotten really impersonal on my blog which really is a shame but I have a perfectly good reason (excuse) for it so, please hear me out! I’ve recently started working for our family business and you know what they say, there is nothing harder than having to work for your family. (Yes, I can attest to this) And in the 4 months that I’ve been working there, I’ve definitely learned a lot and not just in the business of apparel and accessories but also in the business of taking care and marketing yourself.
The most part of my job (after paper works, work planning, etc.) involves having to meet clients which is where the “omg-omg-omg-what-do-I-wear-to-this-meeting” bipolar side of me comes out. But the best part about working with family is that they are always there to guide and advise you especially when it comes to my biggest concern: fashion. This may be a bit superficial to some of you but sorry folks sometimes looks do matter especially when wanting to make a good impression.
So here are my and my mother’s advice when dressing up to meet clients:
1. Be neat.
It’s all about presentation. We always want to present our best selves and I think, the best side we can show is our clean side. This is equivalent to well kept nails, combed hair (which I obviously do now) and washed; cleaned and pressed clothing.
2. Don’t be flashy.
Less is more, I keep hearing my mom say this. Less is more. Dressing down doesn’t necessarily mean not looking your best. Sometimes a simple necklace and a nice watch are all the accessories you need. And of course, a big smile that says “I’d be glad to work with you” and not “I can’t wait to take your money.” I’m not funny, I know.
3. You can mix comfort, style and professionalism.
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to suffer to look good. If there’s anything I’ve learned, clients are totally fine when you show up to meetings in flats instead of heels. That shit only happens in the movies… or if you’re absurdly rich.
4. Be classy.
Take off your extra earrings, don’t wear that loose crop top and DON’T wear your tye dyed studded shorts.
You’re a grown up now. Nobody wants to work with a teenager who obviously doesn’t take herself seriously.
[Dress: Forever21| Heels: Parisian]
Sooo… what do you think about my new approach to blogging?
To bangs instead of sizzles and to making this year… LEGEN (wait for it…) DARY!
Welcome 2014 and welcome back to issaplease! ❤
Hooray for awesome posts to start of my blogging year! I hope everyone is ready for an amazing year cuz I am! 2013 was definitely a year of triumph and defeat but there is always beauty in madness, right? (or something like that *eye roll*)
If there’s anything I’m happiest about for the year that passed, it was definitely being able to work with my favorite blogger and twin, The Kat’s Meow.
I really don’t consider myself as a model since 1. I am faaaaaar behind the height requirements to be one and 2. I always imagined myself as the “behind-the-scenes” type of girl instead of the one in the spotlight. But I easily said yes when Dawn asked me to model for Snap Ltd Apparel’s Comeback Collection for 2 reasons, 1. I love Dawn and if she asked me to strip for her, I would and 2. How could I say no to a brand that replicates everything I loved about my childhood? I knew I had to do it!
Definitely no regrets there because the outcome was amazing! It’s only been about 3 weeks since the collection came out and I’ve probably already used 4 of our shots as my profile pictures. I am THAT obsessed!
Every year since 2005 (in my 2nd year of high school), I would plop myself down on a chair and just spend the entire afternoon trying to summarize the year that passed. It’s been 8 years since then and the tradition lives on and it shall continue to live on for as long as God permits me to.
Xanga, where this tradition all started, may be gone and issaplease and issatalks are currently what define me – nothing is more nostalgic than the things that make you feel alive.
I am FINALLY working for the family business, the business I’ve been wanting to work under for as long as I can remember. I’m here now, I’m going to make the most out of it.
2. Will you be looking for a new relationship?
God, I hope not.
3. New house?
If the pay is good, the rent is cheap and place is close to work then yes, by all means!
4. What will you do different in 14?
I really don’t know. To be honest, I haven’t really thought that much about the new year. Maybe I’ll just play it by ear.
Oh, maybe in 2014 I’ll try to remember more.
5. New Years’ resolutions?
To be more accommodating to my mom & siblings and be around more since my papa isn’t around…
6. What will you not be doing in 2014?
I cannot say. There are no limits in this life… or so I’ve learned.
7. Any trips planned?
China (for business & pleasure)
Somewhere local (with Paolo)
Bangkok (with friends)
… But I’ll have to get a passport first. -.-
8. Wedding plans?
Yes, but not mine.
9. Major thing on your calendar?
Maybe a second triathlon
A thrid year anniversary
Uhm… nothing, really.
10. What can’t you wait for?
A car
a new place to live
Paolo’s 711 to open
A possible new business
11. What would you like to see happen differently?
I’d like to be more emotionally in control this year. Meaning, less crying, less over analyzing, bickering, competing.
I feel like I have all this negativity cramped up in such a small body and I just want to be a better person- physically, emotionally and maybe even spiritually.
I want to be more in control over myself and handle everything in a manner wherein I feel like I’m in killer heels and an expensive dress- even in my sleep.
12. What about you will you be changing?
Refer to 11. & 5.
13. What happened in 2013 that you didn’t think would ever happen?
I NEVER thought I would get fired laid off
The earthquake
Yolanda
My sudden obsession over shoes & dresses
My addiction to board games
Learning how to cook
Given power in the company (the best, by far)
14. Will you be nice to the people you care about?
I will try. The ones we care about are always the easiest to hurt.
15. Will you dress differently this year than you did in 2013?
No, I still dress up like my cabinet puked on me.
16. Will you start or quit smoking?
Continue until further notice. (I’m just being realistic!)
17. Will you better your relationship with your family?
Yes, everyday I am working on it.
18. Will you do charity work?
Hopefully. Been eyeing a few organizations already.
19. Will you go to bars?
I am ready to give that part of my life up already.
20. Will you be nice to people you don’t know?
Aren’t I always?
21. Do you expect 2013 to be a good year for you?
I am depending on it!
22. How much did you change from this time ‘til now?
When exactly was from this time? Did I always answer this question so sarcastically? (Hold on let me check)
(2011)
I am always changing because that is the most natural thing to do.
meh, more or less.
23. Do you plan have on having a child?
At the start of 2013, I was pretty sure that I wanted 5 children. Close towards the end, I wanted 2.
Now, I’d be ok with a dog.
24. Will you still be friends with the same people you are friends with?
Perhaps. But I wouldn’t mind getting rid of a few.
25. Major lifestyle changes?
More work, less Paolo, hopefully more time for friends.
26. Will you be moving?
You mean out of the country? Hopefully never.
27. What will you make sure doesn’t happen in 2014?
Bankruptcy
28. What are your New Year’s Eve plans?
Same as every year, church, dinner, family & neighbors, Paolo and friends.
29. Will you have someone to kiss at midnight?
The only person I want to kiss for the rest of my life.
30. One wish for 2014?
To never have to stay stuck and if by chance I should, to always know how to get out of it.
My favorite moments of 2013:
Co- styling for iFeet
Getting an extra organizer from my clients all the way in Manila 🙂
Sinulog
When Food and Fashion Meet/ The Cooking Fashionistas with Justinne
Commander Cluck- Cluck. Perhaps the best chicken I’ve ever tasted. lol. Not really.
Saying good bye to these wonderful fellows.
Trips with friends
Going to the zoo!!
The egg that got me a sack of Super Crunch. Which I haven’t gotten yet, RYAN YAP!
Social Media Influencers Summit with Maria Resa
Getting featured on Zalora
Getting my own domain!
Finally quitting Accenture after a year
Watched my first IMax movie. Obviously, it was Iron Man 3
Missed our first family trip abroad but got these burgers instead (stupid corporate job)
Fell in love with Duz Grill
Got and lost a new pet
R.I.P, Hook
Learned how to cook… 1 recipe! HAHA
FINALLY started WORKING in events (a dream come truee)
FINALLY read Thirteen Reasons Why
Got invited to blogging events
Chictopia commented on my picture
Became Head of Global Marketing for Kia Motion
Turned iTrabaho into my “baby”
But you can’t raise a baby without any means to sustain it. –l– to you!
Got my traveling scarf
Came back to the mother ship!
JOINED A TRIATHLON!!
Kicked everyone’s ass at poker on my birthday month 😉
Turned 2 years and went to Camotes 🙂
Got bangs
Got nominated
Our annual Christmas family photos 🙂
Did some modeling
Got a Kindle and a Cloudpad (well , I’m sharing with Paolo anyways)
Now I remember why I love doing this so much. Because I always hesitantly start it not sure if how I’m going to feel at the end of my post. Not sure if it was a year well spent or a year wasted.
But every single time, no matter how bad the year was, I always end it feeling blessed. Because that’s what I am… blessed.
Have a blessed and a prosperous year to come, everyone!
For only 8 days, Malu Dingal, will share her expertise on Engagement/ Pre- nup photoshoots from May 15 to May 23 at The Movenpick Hotel, Mactan.
For those who are hoping to make a career out of photography or for those who want to brush up on any skills or learn from someone else, this opportunity is definitely something you should look out for!
[secretly screaming inside: why is everybody getting married?!?! in a frustrated/ terrified voice. There is still PLENTY of time for me, right? #nopressure]
For more details/ inquiries check out Malu Dingal’s official website:
Issa Talks... Alot 