Thursday, October 13, 2011

Butterfly Twists {now a staple in my handbag}

Whenever I take these leopard print platforms out for a spin, I make sure I have my foldable Butterfly Twist pink python flats safely tucked in my purse. 

You see, I'm a 5-inch or nothing kind-of-girl. I don't like anything in between. But gone are the days when I can last a day in heels. Most days now, I'm in flats or wedges. We all know shoes can make or break any outfit so for when I need to wear mile-high numbers, I am comforted by the fact that I have my trusty foldable flats with me. 

I've seen a lot of these foldable shoes sold in bazaars but I wasn't sold to the quality of most. It's a brilliant idea, no doubt, but some of them look too flimsy and I just knew they won't last. I'd rather have a pair of rubber slippers take residency in the trunk of my car. 

When Butterfly Twists was introduced to me by Trina Franco-Molina and Dixie Lyn Chua-Tan (2 of the ladies behind Butterfly Twists Philippines), I was impressed. The patented foldaway shoes from the UK is so lightweight and comfortable. It can twist and fold down small enough to fit even into my envelope clutches!
Butterfly Twists flats are made of a flexible silicone rubber sole, a soft and lightweight insole, and an “elasticated” upper. The upper and the inner soles are carefully selected to ensure utmost comfort. What caught my attention also were the ridged soles that provide grip and durability.

There's a bevy of designs to choose from too. The satin twists that come in different colors and are perfect for lounging!
The faux leather line is a good option if you want something sturdier. Good to have these tucked in your desk drawers at the office. 
My personal favorite are the python twists as I have a penchant for textures and skins. As absurd as it sounds, the python is the easiest to go with my usual garb.
For a run-around-mum like me, durable, lightweight, and chic flats that fold even into the smallest of our handbags, is a breakthrough. They're easy on the feet and easy on our pockets too! 

Currently available in Satin (Black, Gold, Purple, Red and Aqua) for P999.00. Leather (Black, Gold, Silver and White) for P1,299.00 and Python (Black, Navy, Silver, and Pink) for P1399.00.

All 3 collections are now available at Moana and Aura Athletica (The Power Plant Mall); Chocolate Clothing Company (TriNoMa); HAB (Greenbelt 5, Shangri-la, and Alabang Town Center); Fashion Forum (SM Makati, SM Mall of Asia and SM Mega Mall); The Flat Shop (Connecticut Arcade, Greenhills Shopping Center); Aranaz (Greenbelt 5); Catalogue (Gaisano Mall, Davao); Mian’s Closet (Mary Mart Mall, Iloilo City) and now online via CHICIFY


Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Fantasy Closet {Red-handed}

Today's fantasy closet visit features a strong fall fixture that I've attempted a couple of times but can't seem to make up my mind. Is it me or is it not? Hence a little dry run at the coveted fantasy closet where I was caught red-handed in a pair of crimson skinnies. What about you? Have you given in to the oh-so- hot colored denim?

The Elements:
  1. Madewell Skinnies
  2. UNIF Utility Shirt
  3. Givenchy Gold Cap Ballet Flats
  4. Tom Ford Nikita
  5. Alexis Bittar Black Alexandria
  6. Celine Luggage Tote


Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Mischmash Stylish Mama {October}

Leona LaviƱa Panutat, former Esprit buyer, stylist, writer, ShopCrazy shopping editor, blogger, art enthusiast.. wrap up this pretty package of a loving wife and a brand new mum.  
Her work station is conveniently situated beside her son's crib. This is where she writes away while  Wyatt is deep in blissful slumber.
Art by Francis Nacion hangs in the master bedroom where we spied Matryoshka dolls and hardbound reads on fashion and design.
Carlo Ongchangco, Cambridge Fluro Pink Satchel, BCBG Multi-colored Sandals.
Accessorizing is second nature to Leona who owns a vast collection of baubles from cocktail rings to statement necklaces all neatly labeled and categorized. 

Clad in her typical mash-up of preppy-boho. Pleated skirt, crew neck sweater, boho-inspired accessories with a Joyce Makitalo ring to boot.
Shots of color you'll spot all over her insanely neat and put-together place of dwelling.
His and hers. Mama brogues and baby brogues.
Elephant Wooden Menagerie by Jomike Tejido.
Wyatt's nursery is peppered with art lovingly made by his mum and his cousins.
A wooden horse spruced up with one of Leona's favorite scarves holds commanding presence. 
On the right is Wyatt's travel blanket, the hands-on mum especially made for her son before his big arrival.

Describe your personal style? Hmmm.. Preppy-boho. I like wearing clean and classic pieces and pairing them with something quirky, colorful and a bit off. I used to have a monochromatic closet but now all of a sudden I can't get enough of color!! 

What are you wearing this fall? Colored denims, slim V neck and crew neck sweaters, maxi skirts, wedge booties and my Missoni for Target loot! 

Closet staples? Denim cutoffs, straight cut jeans, stripe tees, slim cut cargos, men's button downs and my manly flats: brogues and loafers. 

What is that one piece you can't live without fashion/motherhood-wise? Crisp white button down. You can wear it to absolutely any event. Great when dressed up with a ball gown skirt or dressed down with cutoffs. Plus it's breastfeeding friendly. 

How are you influencing your son's personal style? Well, he's only 2 months old so I don't think I have that much influence on him yet but when he's a bit bigger I'd say.. wear whatever makes you happy! 

Style icons? Jenna Lyons, Tory Burch, Olivia Palermo and Taylor Tomasi-Hill.

Tip or 2 for all moms out there who want to stay stylish amidst all the hullabaloo motherhood brings? Any shopping advice? Buy basics with a twist. A white button down with with an unexpected collar, khakis with pleats, cropped dark denims. These pieces will always look good together no matter what. Just throw on some accessories, grab a leather tote and you're good to go. As for shopping, always be aware of your surroundings. You might just score a great deal in the most unlikely places. Some of my favorite pieces are from Supermarkets!

Styling may have taken a backseat but style is obviously innate for this first time momma who looks like she's having the time of her life. What, with that palpable glow you see and feel around her and adorable Wyatt. Priceless.  

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Photography by Anthony Co.

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Read the prelude.    


Monday, October 10, 2011

Weekend Tidbits

Hello lovelies! How was your weekend? Ours was short and sweet. As is always the case. It was about carousel rides, pet window shopping, my favorite pieces of late, and of course, Steve Jobs. I'm not exactly tech-savvy but he did get me into Mac and I never went back.