Most bloggers are usually invited as guests, and perhaps may be oblivious on whatever’s happening backstage. Little do we know is that behind the glitz and the glamour come these people who painstakingly toil before, during, and even after the event.

I was invited to attend the Swarovski Eyewear Launch not only as a guest, but also as a photographer pre-event.

Swarovski, in partnership with eyewear designer Marcolin, launches its Optical and Sunglasses Collection at the Makati Shangri-la Hotel a couple of weeks ago. I already posted about the two new collections here.

Since taking pictures is merely a pastime of mine, I asked a professional photographer’s help instead. Besides, I wasn’t too confident to pull everything off by simply clutching a humble DSLR kit for starters.

It does not mean that I wouldn’t dare to capture anything at all! Here are some snapshots prior to the event, where the rehearsals, makeup, fitting as well as the photo shoot took place. Call time was 9 am, and believe it or not, I was an early bird.

The stage. Everything’s peace and quiet.

Strutting the catwalk during the programme rehearsal.

A slew of makeup artists doing their thing.

One of the models getting a makeover.

After which, the photo shoot, which’s supposed to be my stint, finally transpired. I took some snapshots on the background. I’m still amid mulling whether should I use them in my nondescript, nonexistent portfolio — or not. So far, everything’s still crappy, but I’d be glad to spare you one (a less crappy version).

Twas clear to me that we’re behind schedule. So, the event finally started and we’re still taking and editing pictures. I resolved not to take my seat as a guest, and helped finish packing up the whole thing before the fashion show starts.

The event was hosted by Sam Oh. I’ve seen her in ETC, and she’s just as eloquent as her usual self.

Amber sang, and it was a shame that I missed her part. Finally, a few minutes before the fashion show, I already grabbed my lunch. I was extremely hungry that I didn’t care taking pictures of my food and devoured it like a warthog. I know, it doesn’t sound so classy.

Amid the course of eating, Shamcey Supsup arrived. So, I sneaked out of the table to take a peak and a snapshot [or two]. The Miss Universe 3rd Runner Up is the official model of Swarovski Eyewear, to be carried by EO-Executive Optical here in Manila. Transformed into “fangirl” mode, I took quite a lot of pictures. Here are some of them.

Shamcey with EO and Swarovski representatives

Shamcey looks like a capital Barbie! My new “thinspiration”. PS: she really has a nice set of teeth.

Culminating the event was the fashion show. Sitting next to the stage, I further took some piccies.

More Event Pictures

Warning: picture heavy.

The finale, of course, went to Shamcey who strutted like a true queen on the catwalk whilst donning an exquisite pair of Swarovski sunnies in Amazing.

Many thanks to Earl and Arnel for the cordial invite and the wonderful opportunity. Also, thanks to Art for taking the pre-event photos.

Another cause for another day. I hope y’all have a glorious Sunday.

Freelance stylist-slash-photographer Eunice Alera recently told me of this wonderful project as part of an ongoing cause, supporting her friend who just underwent a heart surgery.

TO THE SAME BEAT was her and another friend’s brainchild — a small clothing collection composed of minimalist printed tops, each carrying a statement “The Beat Goes On”.

Surely, it may be easily mistaken as something to do with music. Yet, if we are on the same page, it rather depicts another meaning that has more depth.

It comes in tank top and unisex tees, and is available in black and white. Proceeds will all go to her friend to help.

Price:  each shirt is priced at  Php 550.00, whilst the tank top costs Php 350.00.

For orders and more info, you may visit this Facebook Page. Additionally, you may fill up this order form.

http://eunicena.blogspot.com/2011/09/to-same-beat.html

In line with Levi’s Fall-Holiday Collection 2011, the premier denim brand also launched its Go Forth Campaign last September 1st at Whitespace Manila. Yours truly wasn’t present during the event, but here are some of the highlights nevertheless.

The Go Forth campaign, represented by four pioneering ambassadors, aims to create an impact on today’s generation — allowing them to show to the world what they can do in moulding the future with Levi’s as their trusted ally.

“Levi’s and the people who wear them now embody the energy and events of our times. And now, for the first time in the brand’s history, Levi’s is launching a truly global brand campaign that highlights youthful optimism and energy.” said Ronnie Celestial, Levi’s ASEAN Marketing Head.

Levi’s Go Forth Pioneers

Four individuals are culled for their exemplary work and passion.

Niccolo Cosme: Pioneer of Life

Fashion photographer Niccolo Cosme advocates in fighting the spread of HIV Virus. Pioneering with Headshot Clinic and The Red Whistle, Niccolo inspires many people to be aware of the alarming number of HIV cases in the Philippines.

Nina Terol-Zialcita: Pioneer of Positive Change

Writer Nina Terol-Zialcita is a thought-mover and an excellent communicator. Nina revolutionizes the country with her wits, turning articles into campaigns.

Johnoy Danao: Pioneer of Music

Singer Johnoy Danao inspires the Filipino youth towards supporting Filipino music. A prodigy in his own right, a revolutionary in the local music scene and an independent sound mover, Johnoy encourages the younger generation to make Filipino music known to the world.

Divine Lee: Pioneer of Equality

Fashion Icon Divine Lee is a champion for equality and a genuine lover of fairness. Pioneer warrior of the Child Haus Foundation, Divine Lee reaches out to the youth to make their lives better.

Levi’s Fall-Holiday 2011 Collection

A fashion show featuring Levi’s Fall-Holiday 2011 Collection was also held. The collection focuses on craftsmanship and innovation in jeans with its new styles and trends. It utilises the breakthrough Levi’s Curve ID system that is based on the woman’s shape instead of size, as well as Levi’s Waterless jeans that use 28% less water on the average and up to 96% less water in creating the wash or finish of the jeans.

Here are some of the pics from the show: (Warning: picture heavy)

With Levi’s Go Forth Pioneers

Thanks to Jeff of Thinline for some the words and images!

The “ber” month has officially started. Soon, it’ll be Christmas once again — the happiest time of the year (methinks).

Ferretti shoes has a perfect gift especially to avid online shoppers starting today. Due to popular demand, Ferretti Online Store is finally open!

Select from their wide range of shoes and accessories without having to go to their brick and mortar store, not to mention they offer free shipping nationwide!

Also, these latest lovely designs will be available starting today:

http://www.ferrettishoes.com/shop/

One of the things I love about blogging is meeting new people, and eventually having new friends.

I’m so happy to have met LA during the NIVEA and Mango’s Glam Express Event. One Wednesday evening, she invited me to her super nice abode for a private bag spa session.

Pardon me for being so late (not to mention, stressed) then. Nonetheless, I managed to drop by and catch up on the most important part of the sesh — the presentation and the demo, of course!

Kwey and LA of Purse Prime

To give you an inkling, Purse Prime is a brainchild of K-wey Landayan and LA Ferriols, whose passion is into taking good care of designer handbags in the hopes of preserving them into their pristine condition.

Started recently in May 2011, Purse Prime is your one-stop-shop bag care specialist in the Philippines, and an official distributor of Apple Brand Products. They carry Esquire (for patent and vinyl) and Meltonian (specially made for distressed leather material like that of Balenciaga) in addition.

[In keeping with this value] Purse Prime places an even stronger emphasis on the importance of prevention since it is as important to take care of your bags as it is to fix or mend it when it gets broken.

It’s a shame that I’m not really fond of collecting (and taking care of) bags, particularly designer bags, ‘coz it’s way too much expensive for an on-budget lass like me. The most expensive bag that I bought would be a Marc by Marc Jacobs Nylon Tote, which I normally use as a weekender bag (due to its ginormous size). I have some hand-me-downs to boot, mostly purses, from Coach and LV. That night, I decided to bring my humble Burberry makeup pouch that doubles as a tiny clutch bag.

The introductory part was halfway done when I arrived. Nevertheless, I was lucky to catch up on Meya, who’s also into bag care business.

Meya presenting a speedy bag stuffer.

Moving along, Kwey and LA discussed mainly the bag care essentials depending on the brand and material, along with the diverse range of products they carry. LA even gave us a quick demonstration on Meya’s 15-year-old Dooney & Bourke handbag.

LA meticulously cleaning the classic Donney & Bourke.

Bags are like our own skin. Cleaning should be as gentle as if we’re cleansing our own face.

Each of us brought home something from Purse Prime to try. I’ll be making a separate post about it soon!

I had so much fun chattering with the ladies. Thank you so much LA and Kwey for the cordial invitation. Now, I don’t need to worry should I splurge on a designer bag soon!

About Purse Prime

Visit their Multiply Store & Blog.

Follow them on Twitter.

Like them in Facebook.

More Event Pictures

Jackie, Jehann and Earth

Angela and Michelle

Kwey and LA

Meya and Friend

Jackie, Jehann and Earth

Angela and Michelle

Gorgeous Jackie with her “outfittey” and a speedy

I’ve been very busy lately attending beauty events this month. One of which was NIVEA and Mango’s Glam Express Event held at Mango boutique in Rockwell Powerplant Mall last week.

I was slated to meet Jackie in person that very day, who happened to be a real-life barbie donning a chunky pair of Aldo platform clogs. Together with Earth, the three of us, being the early birds, formed a group and joined the styling contest. ‘Twas funny though that we didn’t focus on the contest’s goal, which was to style the fastest time. Nonetheless, Earth and I enjoyed playing stylistas-slash-buyers whilst dressing up Jackie as our gorgeous model.

Here’s Jackie sporting the “spring” peg.

L.A. Ferriols, who was such a darling donning an all white ensemble from Mango, hosted the event.

One of NIVEA’s brand managers, Raisa Mislang, talked about the science behind NIVEA Express Hydration Lotion, which I already made a review here.

Karen Chikiamco of Mango shared to us the clothing brand’s latest autumn-winter collection.

Yehey! Corp’s General Manager, Jay Arellano, discussed the Glam Board Express Facebook application, which is now available here.

Here’s a snapshot of the Facebook app, which is patterned after Polyvore. Image fr Jackie Go.

Getting ecstatic whilst trying the app Image fr NIVEA Philippines

More Event Pictures

Me wearing a typical office ensemble. I was trying to blend into NIVEA’s blue, black and white theme. Image fr NIVEA Philippines.

Checking out the crowd

Captured a stolen shot of Jackie

Jamie, Jon and Gel of NIVEA Philippines

Special thanks to Mikki Galang of NIVEA Philippines and Joanna Ruaro of Yehey! Digital Group

Levi’s gives you the chance to hit the hottest nightspots in town and revel like crazy all year long with Levi’s All Access Card.

Levi’s All Access Card entitles you to a free year-round access for two at the following superclubs: Republiq in Resorts World, Fever Luxe Lounge in Sofitel, The Manor in Eastwood City, Luxx at Vudu in Cebu, and Starr in Davao.

Also, get 10% discount for cash purchase on food and beverage at Opus (Resorts World), Epic (Boracay),  Mushu (Bacolod), Hybrid (Davao), Abaca (Cebu), A Café (Cebu), Maya Restaurant (Cebu) and Formo (Cebu).

Letting loose on the dance floor are the who’s who of party and style – the new Levi’s All Access Card Ambassadors.

Radio DJ, Jessica Mendoza gets the trending beats as she plays the latest party sounds in her afternoon radio show.

TV Host and Radio DJ, Andi Manzano (andi9) is considered as the “Cutest DJ” in the industry! Her bubbly and sweet personality resonates  in her shows.

Stylist to the stars, Alyanna Martinez, is one of the most beautiful faces of 2011! Her creative prowess makes her one the best stylists in Manila.

Philippine AZKAL Midfielder, Misagh Bahadoran, knows how to kick-off the party with his charming personality. Being part of the Philippine National Football Team, Misagh brings great honour and pride to the Filipinos.

Club DJ and Model, Alex Pain, juggles his time playing party-pumping house music and posing for top fashion glossies in the country.

Enjoy these exclusive privileges that’d make you party hardy with the hippest crowd only with Levi’s All Access Card.

Get the Levi’s All Access Card with a purchase of Php 3,000 worth of Levi’s products. Visit any Levi’s Store nationwide from July 29, 2011 to August 31, 2011.

www.levi.com.ph

Images and some text from Levi’s and Thinline

Yekki Balingit started off doing accessories as some form of hobby. Later, that hobby became lucrative as he opens up his business and dubs it as MIADORE.

His accessories are mostly neck pieces elegantly designed — each has its own taste of refinement and sophistication. You’d never go wrong with a pair of crisp white tee and denims donning one of these ultra-chic pieces. His luxe taste  reminds me of Bea Valdes (also his idol), in which I candidly told Yekki that he could be the next “Bea” when I bumped into him during the event.

Fashion Designer Rajo Laurel sought his talent, and now MIADORE is currently available at the House of Laurel. You can also check MIADORE’s Facebook Page for more details.

Seven Barretto is best known for his work in MEGA magazine’s last month ish featuring Filipino supermodels Charo Ronquillo, Charlene Almarvez and Danica Magpantay (the latter is Ford’s grand winner for this year).

His actual stills are found below. All images taken from FaDAL Manila:

At The Event

Exhibits are blanketed with red cloth before the event starts. Photos are then revealed akin to a fashion magazine widespread.

Yekki of MIADORE, Jaz and Levenson of Fadal and Seven. Dang, I was at a weird angle, so I couldn’t capture Yekki vividly

Love this picture of Karl overcast by the bright light from behind. I first stumbled upon him years back in Multiply. Now, he’s a co-designer of Paradigm Shift. Way to go!

Got to bump with these young fashionistas, composed of high school and college kids! That made me feel so young that night.

One of the models, China, gamely poses with her own still shot by Seven

Got to hang out with Tedrick, Misha and shoe designer Brian.

It’s end of season sale once again, and I recently dropped by at Topshop in Shang in the hopes of scoring some gorg finds.

Sadly, I couldn’t hoard given my measly budget this month. There were so many interesting pieces I saw, particularly the dresses and lacy outfits. There’s this button-down collared dress with a belt that looks so Duchess Catherine’s style, but I didn’t get it ‘coz it doesn’t look so me. I’m still thinking of it from time to time though. He-he!

I also took a peek on some of the tees with deconstructive fringes, although I must say I wasn’t a fan of them.

Good news is: I found this cream silk and lace mini-dress for a STEAL! From Php 3595, I only got it for just Php 699 599.

My snapshot didn’t do justice, it’s waayy much better in real life. Pieces are limited, and I was lucky to grab one of these.

It’s a month-long sale, so here’s to praying I’ll be getting more steals by the end of the month.

Fashion Designers Alliance Manila, in collaboration with jewelry designer Yekki Balingit of MIADORE and photographer Seven Barretto, will hold an exclusive event later. I’m so glad to catch up on this at the last minute! I’ll be reporting as usual after.