The Best Gifts Don’t Come In Packages

Posted on October 31, 2014 by issaplease

First of all, I want to say a big fat THANK YOU to everyone who greeted me on my birthday.

I tried my best to personally thank each and everyone of you but my internet has been bad lately so I might not have been able to deliver 100%.

Please know that I feel very blessed this year because of your thoughtfulness ❤

Being 23 was such a wonderful time in my life. I wish I could stay 23 forever (or at least look it) but, I haven’t really figured out how to do that just yet!

If you had to ask me, the best part about ending my 23rd year was getting to spend time with the College Editors Guild of the Philippines and sharing my knowledge about writing online and social media.

It was definitely “one for the books” and I’m really proud of myself for being asked to do it. lol. I’ve always enjoyed public speaking so every chance I get to do it, I grab it!

Thanks again!

xoxo,

Issa

Simply Issa

Posted on October 11, 2014 by issaplease

Happy Saturday!

A month or so ago, I was invited by a friend of mine, Ryan Orcullo of Ryan Orcullo photography to do a fun shoot with him and another photographer friend of ours, both whom I had met during one of my Google events.

We wanted to try a shoot we haven’t done before and since I’ve done street fashion countless of times, high fashion was the way to go!

This shoot was done downtown, Cebu where most of our historical landmarks are located. We had to shoot fairly early in the morning to avoid the 12 o clock sun and since this was done downtown, I got a lot of weird and curious glances which was a pretty funny and equally great experience!

Here are my favorite shots from the set:

At the Magellan’s Shrine

Shoots like this take a lot of diversity in posing and I’ll admit, so far, I’ve only mastered the “hair-in-my-hair/ aray-ang-sakit-ng-ulo-ko” poses which you’ve probably gotten a handful of already. lol

Posing with a long dress was also a bit tricky because I really had to work with my body and try to create as many silhouettes as possible so I did a lot of bending and twisting of my body to add a bit of a form.

And since you can’t see my legs, I had to play with my arms a lot which… totally explains why I had to overuse my “signature” pose. HAHAHA

I find it very important to find your comfort zone when shooting because then your poses become much more fluid and your smiles also come out so much more naturally. And when you feel like you’re getting a bit rusty, feel free to let loose and be a bit goofy so you get your momentum back.

I’m a fairly awkward person so I do this A LOT!

What do you think about this set? 🙂

Special thanks to:

Ryan Urcullo (photography)

Hans Perez (photography)

Julie Ann Sollano (make up)

Have a happy weekend, everyone!

xx,

Issa

Better Than This Weather feat. Sanuk, Cebu

Posted on October 9, 2014 by issaplease

It’s like I can never say it enough… Cebu’s weather is totally whack!

One minute I’m in a summery ensemble ready to hit an event and the next, I’m scurrying to find a cardigan to match! It’s like these rain clouds come out of nowhere so I’m always finding myself having to pack an extra layer of clothing just in case.

There really isn’t an “ideal” way to dress for this weather and I think we’re all aware of this since it’s the only thing us fashion bloggers can seem to talk about these days. But the problem is real… the solution however, may often be hazy.

And although my #OOTD may not look as prepared to combat any weather, at least I know my shoes are. These babies from Sanuk’s Spring/ Summer 2015 collection are perfect whether it’s raining or shining outside.

Sanuk, which name is directly derived from the Thai word meaning happy, is known to attract people who love hitting the outdoors. They are constructed from innovative technology to ensure maximum comfort and durability and they are super stylish as well.

They can easily take anyone from the beach, to the mall and straight to the mountains for quick hike which is perfect for the Cebuano lifestyle!

Floral crop top: SM Department store brand, Betty (gift from Chay Ramirez. Love you always, Chay!)| High waist shorts: Gaisano Car-car| Shoes: Sanuk| Shades: Forever21 (similar here)

For days like this when then the weather is off but I need some flower power to brighten the mood, I always pack a bright colored cardigan just in case it drizzles.

In addition to my cute and versatile shoes, keeping a cardi in my bag gives me the quick option to dress up or down as I please. It might add a little extra baggage but I like to carry big bags anyways so I don’t seem to mind.

Congratulations to Sanuk for opening their new store at the 2nd level, new wing of Ayala! Thanks for having us and of course, for my new favorite pair of shoes :*

With Doyzkie (www.iluvcebu.com), Toni (www.perfumedredshoes.com), Marco (www.lamikaayo.com) and Jean (www.jeancyu.com)

xx,

Issa

Passed On and Handed Down

Posted on September 17, 2014 by issaplease

Just a quick, real time post because work ended early and I’m honestly too tired to do anything else. I’m back to posing in front of our storage area’s frontage and I had to bribe my brother with my last chicken drumstick for him to take my pictures. But aside from that, everything is or will be ok. Or at least that’s what they say…

This blog entry is entitled “Passed On and Handed Down” because most of the items I’m wearing were either given to me as a gift or handed down to me.

I have no shame in admitting that a lot of my friends like to give me their used/ unused clothing because 1. I’m smaller than most of them so what they grow out of, I can grow into and 2. sometimes they are more of use to me than they are for them.

Plus, it saves me a great deal of money from shopping! I really cannot complain when it comes to being able to save. :p

Also, I have recently been asked to share 20 facts about myself on Instagram but I thought I’d share it on my blog instead. So here it goes:

1. I like to be alone more than I like to talk. But don’t worry, there’s still a lot of talking going on in my head.

2. I already wrote my top 20 things on IG but due to the character count, it wouldn’t upload my picture. So I had to do it again 😦

3. I absolutely love animals. I’ve owned an iguana, hamsters, guinea pigs, dogs, birds, fish, rats, etc. at one point of my life. I really want a pet goat and a pet pig though.

4. I like to be ironic. I named my dog Meow, a pillow Rocky and a rock fluffy.

5. I try as much as possible not to follow trends especially when it comes to catch phrases and manners of speaking. I’ve never used the line “pag may time” and I do not regret it.

6. I do not know what you mean by a basic bitch. (shout out to @faithdeguzman!!)

7. I did not participate in the transformation challenge because the only celebrity I could associate myself with was Pokwang.

8. As much as I use it on my blog and on facebook, I really REALLY hate hashtags.

9. If I could have any mental disorder, it would be multiple personality disorder.

10. This year will be my 10th year in blogging. I started under http://www.xanga.com/aa_bebe_phat_aa and I’ve transferred to http://www.issatalks.wordpress.com since Xanga shut down.

11. I am neither stupid nor smart. Sometimes my brain responds really well and then there are times when it’s all muck.

12. I despise people who deny being gay even if it’s the most obvious thing in the entire worldddd. I just feel like it’s an insult not only to themselves but to the people around them. Besides, gay people are great. I love them!

13. My “original” name is Jean Louise I. Chua. You’d know this if you met me in 2009.

14. I like to tell people that I changed my last name because I had a stalker so I had to move cities and change my last name. For some reason, people actually believe this.

15. One day, I’d like to have an assistant write down all the snarly stuff I say while going through my facebook feeds and turn it into a blog series. I’m sure a lot of people would enjoy that unless my comments are about you.

16. I do not have the will power to finish writing my book no matter how much I believe in it. I am afraid of the ending. Plus I have a ds, kindle, tab, Phoenix Wright, Star Wars. loom bands and a phone that basically takes up ALL my free time. Poor priorities.

17. I enjoy artsy things like drawing, painting, sewing, loomband-ing (?), poetry, writing. I’m not particularly good at any of this but it helps pass the time.

18. I really REALLY REAAAALLLLLYYY want a pot bellied pig and I have Miley Cyrus for getting one before I did. And I also really realllyyyy like bacon. It’s such a hard world.

19. You know how there are people who says the most random and inappropriate stuff? I’m THAT person.

20. I always thought that life would be a lot easier than it actually is and I’m at a weird stage of my life right now. I have heard that dreams should be kept dreams but dreams are the only things I’ve had. So what do I keep and what do I let go of? I’m trying to figure all of this out and yet somehow, my dreams just got a lot bigger. But we’ll see.

To find out who I’m tagging for this challenge, you can add me on Facebook.

xx,

Issa

Frame Game (feat. Warby Parker)

Posted on September 3, 2014 by issaplease

There is an age old belief that eye glasses are anything BUT fashionable and that contact lens are the way to go when you don’t which which way you’re going (literally speaking, of course). But I’ve always kept a strong frame game on because I think that with the right pair, you can add soo much character to any outfit!

Warby Parker believes in the same thing. With their Fall collection recently released, it is specifically aimed for those who own their style, exercise their wit, and add life to the party! That’s something I can definitely relate to 😉

With 9 new frame shapes added to the collection, anyone will be bound to fall in love with the perfect frames perfect for you. I’ve been through the collection and I’ve already chosen a handful for myself!

For the bold, they’ve created three clever styles in crystal. For the polished professionals, they’ve updated three hardworking acetate frames with titanium temples. And for the folks who really mean business,a handful of angular silhouettes will be just right.

Here are my personal picks:

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Really gravitating towards the square and “animal” printed frames since it’s a great mix of sexiness and sophistication that any woman in her early 20’s should aim for. What are your choices?

Fall 2014 is available September 3 online at http://www.warbyparker.com/fall-2014 and in stores and showrooms; frames starting at $95

Visit the website here

Find out how every pair bought from Warby Parker can help someone see the world a little bit better here

Happy shopping!

xx,

Issa

A Little Piece of Me & A Little Piece of Sky

Posted on September 3, 2014 by issaplease

Sharing the rest of the photos we took from A Little Piece of Sky Cafe with Jing Pascual x Jade Caballo a couple of weeks ago.

ALPS Cafe, for short, is located in M. Veloso street, Guadalupe. Getting there takes a bit of enhanced navigational skills but the adventure is worth it!

The establishment was kind enough to allow us to take photos there which resulted in these amazing photos. I love how their theme is up to par with their name and how being there makes me feel like packing my bags and traveling the world. Not a lot of places have that effect on you emotionally- I’ve been planning my eat, pray, love trip since!

A lot of people ask me how for techniques when it comes to posing in front of a camera whether it be for photo shoots, ootd’s or just random photos with family and friends. Although I don’t think that there’s really an exact science to it, I’ll try my best to be as informative and helpful as possible. 🙂

1. Know your angles.

I’m no professional model but I’ve heard it a million times on Amderica’s Next Top Model and when applied in real life, it really does wonders for your photographs. I noticed that I look better when my head is tilted to the side and when the right side of my face is more prominent because of my eyes.

Over time and after a million selfies, finding your angle will be extremely easy to identify. I think I chose my angle because it felt more comfortable to lean that way. lol

2. Find your signature pose

When it doubt, go for your signature pose! I know a lot of bloggers who rely on their signature pose, not to be recognized for it, but because it’s our safety net when we have no idea what we’re doing. It helps a lot when calming those nerves and once we’ve reached a level of calmness, experimenting with other poses becomes easier and less awkward.

If you noticed, I like to play with my hair a lot or put my hand near my face. I’ve always liked the silhouette it gives off and how it gives people more things to look at rather than my uneven eyes and bad eyebrows.

3. Be aware of your body.

When posing for pictures, I always like to imagine how it would actually come out. “What’s the use of smiling if my arm is in the way? Why do my legs look so weird in this picture? I’m looking the wrong way, my face looks too dark…” Are just a few of things that I’ve said to myself when reviewing sets so I’ve learned from that and applied it in shoots.

Also, I think it’s important to know what kinds of poses don’t work. I am completely mortified with poses wherein legs are wide open or it involves hands in weird places so I always think those are poses to reconsider.

4. Emote.

I used to laugh when I would think of the word “smize” (smiling with your eyes) because I thought it was complete and udder nonsense but I’ve come to learn that the more emotion you put into a shot, the better it comes out.

I also think that outfit posts are gratified with the emotions we convey when wearing them. Edgier outfits will look no good with a good girl pose which is why we add a little hip and flair to it and the same goes for other outfits. Can you imagine how awkward it would look if I gave a pa cute face while in a cat suit? I rest my case.

5. Be Silly.

Natural, candid laughs caught on camera. Priceless.

Those are just a few of my tips for taking better pictures. And of course, don’t forget to practice! I hope this works for you 🙂

Find out more about ALPS Cafe from their Facebook page

Instagram: @alpscafe

Jing Pascual x Jade Caballo

xx,

Issa

Gibb’s Hot Wings: The Hottest Wings in Town

Posted on September 2, 2014 by issaplease

I am such a sucker for hole in the wall restaurants that nothing excites me more than a new restaurant buried deep within the city I love (Cebu. Duh.)

And although I’m not a huge fan of spicy food, how could I turn down an invitation to dine at Gibb’s, the home of the hottest and arguably best hot wings in Cebu? I simply couldn’t! And for blogging purposes, I’m proud to tell everyone that I did in fact try them!

Gibb’s, which is named after the family’s dog, is a small restaurant located within Holy Family Village II, Banilad. What used to be a storage area for the family catering business’ now lies a small and cozy area where hot wing lovers can come together and eat to their hea[r]ts content.

With cut out newspapers used as a place mat, diners can enjoy different kinds of wings like their famous Gibb’s Hot Wings wherein you can choose up to 5 hotness levels, Gibbs’ Angel Wings and the Gibbs’ Spicy Honey- Garlic Wings. And just in case chicken wings aren’t enough, you can also opt for their pasta and sidings.

Jean, our boyfriends and I, together with owner Coy Oliva, were able to sit down and taste his and his wife’s works of art on a fine Saturday afternoon and although I came out sweatier than I came in (their wings are THAT spicy!), I’d recommend their hot wings to anyone!

I’ll be honest, I know absolutely nothing about wings- I don’t eat them, I never crave for them and quite frankly, I don’t really care for them at all but… Paolo does. A LOT! So on this very special occasion, I decided to drag him along and be the judge of this one. The verdict? I got a very lengthy explanation of the different types of chicken wings, what makes it good and how pleased he was that he FINALLY found a place in Cebu that he could go to to fulfill his wings cravings…

On the flip side and on behalf of the all girls who like to play on the safe non-spicy side of things, I really enjoyed everything I had that day especially the cheese sticks and potato wedges! As a firm believer that cheese heals all wounds, Gibb’s mozzarella sticks are just the right mix of cheese and breading which is really hard to find!

I also indulged in their Angel Wings which are crunchy chicken wings glazed in cream, cheese and garlic sauce and topped in Parmesan cheese. (I said cheese twice in one sentence. I’m soo happy!)

And how could I forget their choices of pasta? We were also able to try out their equally famous Gibbs’ Spaghetti and Meatballs and their Bacon and Mushroom Carbonara.I really loved both, favoring the carbonara more but that’s due to personal preference. 😉

I think it’s important for me to share my #hotwingschallenge experience so I’m going to do just that! Again, I’m a really not a fan of anything remotely spicy. I once won P 500.00 from eating an entire glunk of bbq powder from Potato Corner and that’s the last time I ever had it! Knowing my low tolerance to spice, Coy was kind enough to prepare my something I could handle. I was able to try the mildest hot wings and the 5th level (the spiciest) and although I was able the stomach the mildest level… god bless the people crazy enough to eat the 5th!

Of course, Paolo will tell you that I’m exaggerating like the true drama queen I was born to be but I’ll let you guys be the judge of this one..

Find their menu here

Like them on Facebook

Credits to Jean for the photos :*

xx,

Issa

Soak Up @ The Nail Island

Posted on August 3, 2014 by issaplease

Cabana – /kəˈban(y)ə/

a cabin, hut, or shelter, especially one at a beach or swimming pool. Otherwise known as the epitome of relaxation, if you’re a beach bum like most Cebuanos are, of course.

Located at the ground floor of the Banilad Town Center, Cabana proudly houses everything beach-y from swim suits by Soak Swimwear to cover ups, sunnies and other merchandise perfect for your sun loving needs!

And if in case you can’t get your beach bum on, you can always give your nails the pampering they need at the Nail Island which is located inside the store.

Take a quick break from the hustle and bustle of the Metro and just sit back and relax inside the beach inspired nail salon while you enjoy their many services perfect for your tired hands and feet!

I dropped by Cabana this weekend and the interior, services and the over all feel of the place blew me away!

I indulged in a foot indulgence pedicure and a seaside rush manicure that afternoon and left with an intense longing to dip my feet in the water. But despite my lack for salt water, I now have pretty hands and feet and with my extremely hectic schedule is actually better. 😀

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10410623_675591472535570_4896692760387694484_n Check out Soak

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Swimwear’s collection of swim wear on

Facebook

Instagram

And Nail Island on

Instagram

xx,

Issa

Waki Waffles: The Waffles I #ReallyLove

Posted on July 20, 2014 by issaplease

Fun fact: Belgian waffles aren’t really from Belgium! In fact, not a single waffle is identified as a “Belgian waffle” within Belgium itself however, the Belgian waffles are distinctly known for their use of baking powder instead of the traditional yeast.

These interesting concoctions whether you’re a having them for dessert or an afternoon treat stand out against the American waffles with their distinguishable larger size, lighter batter, larger squares and their higher grid patterns that form deeper pockets.

[Thank you Wikipedia!]

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Thankfully, we don’t need to travel all the way to North America to be able to enjoy these sweet gifts from heaven-Waki Waffles has finally arrived! Named after their son, Waki, entrepreneurs Pia and Wayne Congmon are now offering authentic Belgian Waffles using the best imported ingredients availble and are made using waffle irons specially flown in from Belgium!

Customers are given the option to choose between sweet and savory waffles wherein the sweet waffles are heavily coated in sweet. dessert toppings while the savory waffles are coated in more filling ones.

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From left: Death by Chocolate, Mango Float and Rainbow waffles

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Pizza waffle

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Bacon and Caramel waffle

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Blueberry Creamcheese

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Chocolate Marble Waffle

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And if in case you’re feeling a bit more creative, you can even create your own Waki Waffle and cover it with their many selection of fruit, spread, cream, drizzles and sprinkles!

My next-in-line waffle would probably be: [1] A Brussel Waffle, [2] Cream Cheese, [3] Strawberries and Peaches, [4] Whipped Cream, [5] Grahams = P 140.00

It sounds weird, doesn’t it? I’ll let you know how it works out!

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With the guests at the media launch [photo grabbed from @jeancyu]

Located at:

2nd floor of Ayala Center Cebu, Active zone

2nd level of SM City, Fiesta Strip

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Outfit shots soon!

xx,

Issa

Sundays Are For Ladies

Posted on July 5, 2014 by issaplease

Growing up I would often hear my mom tell us to look our Sundays’ best during the Sabbath. Of course, I try my best to look my best everyday but Sunday dressing is always a little bit more thought of and special. For this particular Sunday look, I was unable to go to church but I made sure to it that I looked my best for Cebu In The Bags’ last day- even if it meant looking as girly as ever!

On most days, I really have a hard time incorporating girlier pieces into my wardrobe but this top from Let’s Stylize fit so well that any prohibitions I had about my experimental look quickly went away!

Ladies, It’s not a crime to want to try new things especially when it comes to fashion. People tell me all the time that if I want to establish myself in this industry I should “distinguish my style” but you know what, I’d rather be myself (crazy and unpredictable) rather than boring. I am not going to be defined by fashion nor will I be identified for singular style, I’m going to be one of the few who defines it and is unapologetic about what I want to wear and when I want to wear it. So here’s my advice to the tomboys who wanna dress sexier or to the girly girls who wanna look edgier and fierce: DO IT! If it doesn’t work out the first time, try again and find what really makes you comfortable and don’t let others opinion defy you.

I’m usually comfortable in shorts and loose tops but when days come when I want to feel a little bit sexier, I’ll wear a little polka dotted tube top, a midi skirt and some black wedges… I’ll even throw on a bohemian hat for a little familiarity! And if people don’t get it, it’s ok, sometimes people have tiny brains. 😉

Hope that inspires the hell out of you!

From one tomboy to another,

Issa

A special thanks to Let’s Stylize for my top (and others which will be featured on the blog)!

Check them out on Facebook for chic and affordable fashion ❤

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