The Practical Guide to Dressing for a Festival

     Festival season is well underway, and this summer is seeing many of us heading off to our very first festival event. And there’s definitely enough choice in the shops when it comes to our fashion choices, from dainty crop tops to patterned playsuits, deciding what to wear can be quite a task! But, what are the real essentials, and what’s going to be a practical choice whilst still looking bang on trend for festival fashion? Read on to find out what’s best to – and not to – wear if you’re planning on going to a festival this summer.

Playsuits Aren’t Practical

     Although the majority of us are sure to want to copy the style of Vanessa Hudgens who looked amazing in a pretty little playsuit at Coachella, the truth is, playsuits are definitely not the most practical of outfits to wear for a festival. If it gets chilly and you need to use the portaloo, the last thing that you’re going to want to do is get undressed in that small amount of space. 

The Practical Guide to Dressing for a Festival

     Dresses are a lot more practical at a festival if you’re looking for something just as cute as a playsuit. Choose a light, flowy dress with a trendy print – geometrical, floral and animal prints are all massive trends for this summer that will look fabulous, whatever festival you’re planning to attend. 

Flared Trousers

     Another fashion comeback that’s a huge trend this summer are flared trousers. However, if you’re thinking of wearing a pair of these to a festival, they’re not the most practical of choices – by day three when there’s no grass in sight and everything’s turned to mud, they’ll be your worst enemy as they drag along the floor and get you covered in mud. Plus, if you’re wearing wellies, are they going to look good together?

Denim Shorts

     You can’t get more practical at a festival than a simple pair of denim shorts. Paired with a floaty blouse, crop top, vest top and a pair of wellies – there really is nothing that basic denim shorts won’t go with. If you’re worried about feeling the cold, you could even take a pair of plain black leggings or tights to wear underneath, and you still won’t ruin your look. Yes, we’ve decided that when it comes to practical, fashionable festival wear, denim shorts are your best friend. Available to buy from almost anywhere, you really can’t go wrong!

Footwear

     Although you might want to pull out your favorite sandals especially if the weather’s forecast to be good, the most practical footwear that you can choose for a festival is a pair of wellies. After a couple of days even in dry weather the amount of people are sure to churn up some mud and muck, and the last thing you want to be doing is walking around getting your feet wet and dirty. Whether you choose to buy a pair of cheap wellies for the occasion or invest in a stronger, sturdier more expensive pair, we can’t stress enough how important it is to wear wellies – or at least waterproof footwear – at a festival this summer. 

Bags

     Festivals are jam packed full of people, so the last thing that you want to be doing is worrying about whether or not somebody’s pinching something out of your bag. Expect to be jostled around and pushed into a lot as well, so taking your five hundred dollar designer handbag to a festival is probably not the best of ideas. Instead, invest in a cheap rucksack, body-cross bag or even a bum bag where you can store any valuables, tickets, and money rather than leaving these items in your tent. 

Accessories

     When it comes to accessories you really can go wild at a festival, with everything from body jewelry to elaborate floral headdresses available. However, some accessories you’re really not going to want to forget – remember to protect yourself from the sun by wearing a pair of sunglasses, or at the very least a hat. Floppy hats are really in this summer, so why not wear one of those to keep yourself in the shade and looking fashionable and trendy at the same time. 

     Are you an avid festivalgoer? Which outfits do you tend to choose when you attend a festival? Do you have any advice or tips regarding what to wear for first time festivalgoers? Whether you’ve just come back from your first festival or attend a few different ones every year, we’d love to hear your experiences and advice in the comments below.

How to Dress for Success Without Emptying Your Wallet

     50 Cent is all over the news these days after he filed for bankruptcy. Quite a big turnaround for a guy who was named by Forbes as the fourth wealthiest hip-hop artist with an estimated $155 million net worth. The bankruptcy filing comes after a court ordered him to pay $5 million in a sex tape trial.

     Talking about his bankruptcy, 50 Cent said he borrowed gold chains and watches just to keep up appearances that he lived a lavish lifestyle. While we’re sure Fiddy will be back making millions from his various business ventures, it seems this latest episode in his life is a case of dressing for success and going broke in the process. 

How to Dress for Success Without Emptying Your Wallet

Here are a few tips on how to dress for success on a budget - and hopefully avoid 50 Cent’s fate.

Create Your Signature Look

     Steve Jobs had his black turtleneck and blue jeans, Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg has his grey t-shirt and hoodie, Carrie Donovan (fashion editor for Vogue) had her large eyeglasses, black clothing, and pearls. These people kept their wardrobe simple and consistent and following in their footsteps can help you save money too! No need to buy several clothes if you basically have a uniform when you go to work. Another benefit is that it saves you time because you don’t have to fuss every morning on what to wear.

     “You can have anything you want in your life if you dress for it,” said Edith Head in her book 1967 book How to Dress for Success. Dressing up well has an impact on the way we think and the way we work so consider your trip to the department store an investment in your career.

Review The Fashion Items You Already Have in Your Wardrobe

     When was the last time you cleaned out your closet? You might want to do it soon and you just might find pieces that you can still use. Perhaps you might find some pieces that you stocked away and have forgotten. And no, I’m not talking about the clothes you wore when you were an intern five years ago and you were two sizes smaller.

     Taking stock of what you have in your wardrobe can also help you avoid the mistake of buying similar clothing. A quality attire stands the test of time, as long as these still fit you well, of course.

Get Back to Basics

     Some clothes just say “professional” at one glance. These are your slacks and dress shirts for men while women get more options when it comes to what the basics are but this includes skirts and blouses. If you’re going to spend on a new wardrobe and not go with the ones that are already in your wardrobe, these basics are a good place to start.

     If you think about it, you’ll be spending 5 days of the whole week dressed in them so these will get a lot of use. Spending a little more for quality clothes that last and also look good can prove to be a wise move. It’s also easy to mix and match when you get a set of basics.

A Blazer is Your Best Friend

     Putting on a blazer or a coat makes it easy to look professional. Plus wearing one helps you feel authoritative not to mention it helps hide a crinkled shirt. The trick to wearing it well is to pick one that fits you well. Stick to dark colors without any stripes and you’ve got something to wear throughout the work week!

Shop Only When It’s On Sale

     End-of-season sales and other sale events are a great time to shop for the basics and blazers. But don’t overdo it! Once you’ve had a full set to cover your workweek, forget about updating your wardrobe until it needs replacing. You’re not saving money when you bought something on sale if you don’t need it.

     So dress for success! With these handy tips, you don’t have to spend too much to look professional at work. Need more tips on how to dress for success on a budget? Hit the link! So tell us, how else do you save on what you wear to work? Let us know in the comments!

This post is brought to you by:

MoneyMax.ph is the Philippines’ leading financial comparison site where you can save money by comparing financial and car insurance products and services – fast, comprehensive, and free. We aim to give the power of smart purchase decisions back to Filipino consumers by providing everything they need to become financially savvy. Like us on Facebook to get the latest tips on how to save.

OishiSnacktacular 2015 Event Day 1 Highlights

     Hello dearies! I had a blast yesterday in Trinoma Acitvity Center, I'm sure you've seen all the instagram posts from your favorite bloggers. Yes, we were at the OishiSnacktacular 2015 Event. I was invited to get the first dibs on what will happen to this 3-day activity. It's my first time to attend this kind of event and truly enjoyed all the booths that I've visited. I'm sure you've seen those teaser photos and videos, it's all fun and exciting right? Scroll down to see what happened to the media launch and read why you should bring your family and friends there tomorrow :)

     Whether you love that crunchy sound or can’t get enough of its satisfying taste, everyone enjoys eating their favorite snacks - especially snacks we’ve grown to love through the years! After the success of last year’s event where Oishi lovers were encouraged to be creative snack makers, the much-loved snack brand made things even bigger at the OishiSnacktacular 2015.

OishiSnacktacular 2015 Event Day 1 Highlights

     Oishi lovers will be treated to a three-day event filled with a bevy of surprises. Giving everyone the opportunity to roam around the Trinoma Activity Center, customers will enjoy all sorts of activities and treats. An exhilarating and creative field of play, this event boasted some of the most unique and simply O, Wow activity booths for family and friends to enjoy! The photo below shows what's in store for you inside the OishiSnacktacular booths. I'll tell you now that your day will be worth it, so I'm inviting you guys to go there tomorrow and have fun!

OishiSnacktacular 2015 Event Day 1 Highlights

     First up, the Oishi Snack Catcher. I can say this was the well-anticipated booth that morning. Bloggers and friends from the media were so excited to  be strapped in the giant snack catcher. This giant catcher works after the person is being strapped in the harness and dipped into a pool of Oishi snacks. All they have to do is to catch all the snacks using their arms, legs, mouth, in any way that they can. I wasn't able to try this so yes, boo for me :( There's a long queue in this booth so if you're planning to go there tomorrow, be sure to go early and think of a strategy on how to grab more than 50 packs of your favorite Oishi snacks!

OishiSnacktacular 2015 Event Day 1 Highlights
Snack Catcher
Hello there Marj Sia! 

     The next booth that you'll see on your right side from the entrance is the giant Oishi Prawn Crackers photo booth. It's a no brainer that Oishi Prawn Crackers is the famous snack from Oishi that's why this is the theme for their photo booth. Give your best shot here and don't forget to hold those props- the ingredients why Oishi Prawn Crackers snack is one of the best snacks from Oishi :)

OishiSnacktacular 2015 Event Day 1 Highlights
photo from Ruth

     Thirsty? Go get your cup of Oishi’s very own Smart C+ slushies at the Sluch C+ booth. This is one of my favorite drinks from Oishi and they made it even better because it's in slush form. Worrying about brain freeze? Well, it's only once a year so if you're there tomorrow you gotta indulge in both flavors while you can. 

OishiSnacktacular 2015 Event Day 1 Highlights
Smart C+ slushie booth

     Another booth that will give you a delicious treat and satisfy your sweet tooth cravings is a special soft-serve sundae made from Oishi Choco Chug Chocolate Milk Drink topped with you favorite Oishi sweet and savory treats like Oishi Pillows, Wafu Leche Flan, Gourmet Picks Potato Chips and Marty’s Baconette Strips. I wasn't able to take a photo of my choco chug ice cream, it's yummers! Finished my cup in less than five minutes, a must treat that you should not miss!!!

OishiSnacktacular 2015 Event Day 1 Highlights
Choco chug ice cream twirl booth

     Another booth that I enjoyed was the Make Your Own Snack area where I picked out from  a selection of Oishi chips to go along with different flavors such as cheese, barbecue and nori. This personalized snack area will let you customize your favorite snacks from Oishi. Can't decide what to make? 

OishiSnacktacular 2015 Event Day 1 Highlights
Make your own snack guide

     Let the snack guide help you. It's easy to do: choose your bag, pick two kinds of chips, then choose two flavors and voila, you've created your own Oishi snack :) My snack: ridges and corn cubs + salt and vinegar and white cheddar flavor = delicioso!

OishiSnacktacular 2015 Event Day 1 Highlights
Make your own snack booth

     The last booth tested my speed and flexibility. The Snack Shack is a ran and fill edition because you will get a 2 ft. Oishi giant pack that you'll need to fill with all your favourite Oishi snacks and beverages in 60 seconds. 

OishiSnacktacular 2015 Event Day 1 Highlights
I'm ready to fill this bag with my favorite Oishi goodies!

     Before the 60-second clock started, I already have in mind what are the Oishi products that I want to go inside my bag. If you love Oishi beverages like choco chug, oaties, and smart c+ you have to get them first and put them at the bottom of the bag. Then you can grab all the snacks in pouches to fill your bag. If there are empty spaces, you can slide the powdered drink juices if you can. You have to make sure that your Oishi bag can be sealed or else, the remaining goodies in the brim of your Oishi bag will be returned back to the shelves.

OishiSnacktacular 2015 Event Day 1 Highlights
Moi at the Snack Shack booth

     The event was graced with celebrities who went their with their family and friends. One of the highlights was having Alex Gonzaga, the latest member of the Team O barkada to join the current line-up of Elmo Magalona, Kathryn Bernardo, Slater Young, Ramon Bautista and Daniel Padilla who all effortlessly  turn up the O, Wow factor for their fans and Oishi lovers.

OishiSnacktacular 2015 Event Day 1 Highlights
O, Wow!

     Thank you so much Oishi and Bridges Pr for having me. Kenzo wasn't able to join the event but after seeing these bags filled with Oishi snacks and drinks, he said it's like he was there with me too :) Congratulations Oishi on this very successful event, til next year! I'll definitely bring the fambam! 

Good Times!~

Product Review: Purest by Natura Organics ReVOLUMIZING Shampoo

     It's not easy to find a hair care product that will make your crown and glory healthy and shiny. It's always a trial and error kind of game. Before you can say that it's effective, there will be different factors you need to consider- the scent, the texture, the ingredients, the price, and the overall experience you get while using the product. If you're a long time reader of this blog, the only natural or organic product that I'm still searching is an organic shampoo that will be a mainstay in my hair care essentials. I've found one in the past but I'm still contemplating if I'll continue to use it or not because the price is a bit steep for a cheapskate like me.

     Months ago, I received an organic and all-natural shampoo from my favorite organic brand- Natura Organics and their hair care line is called Purest. I wasn't able to test the product immediately because I was still using a so called natural shampoo but I doubt if it's natural (because of the ingredients) that I bought from a famous personal store. Anyhoo, after using this shampoo for more than twenty days now I'm ready to say my thoughts. Scroll down to see more information about the product :)

Product Review: Purest by Natura Organics ReVOLUMIZING Shampoo 

Purest by Natura Organics ReVOLUMIZING Shampoo

• Specially recommended for thin, weak, unmanageable hair with static charge build-up. 
• Ensures gentle and effective cleansing and maintains proper balance of the scalp without damaging its natural hydro-lipid barrier. 
• Based on natural plant water, this innovative formula contains safe cleansing agents and natural, 
• organic active ingredients, which strengthen the hair and regenerate its inner structure. 
• The shampoo penetrates into the hair and restores its thickness and volume. 
• The hair is deeply hydrated and looks shiny and healthy. 
• The formula leaves your hair flexible, full of volume and easy to manage.

Product Review: Purest by Natura Organics ReVOLUMIZING Shampoo 

PRODUCT TRANSPARENCY CHART: 98.8%

ORGANIC RAW MATERIALS - total amount of ingredients whose usage in cosmetic formulations follows sustainable standards: 0.0% 

PURE MINERALS: 51.9% 

PLANT WATER: 1.2% 

NON-ORGANIC RAW MATERIALS- only naturally derived alternatives are used

Product Review: Purest by Natura Organics ReVOLUMIZING Shampoo 
photo credits to Real Natura Organic's Instagram Account

size: 300 ml

also available in 120 ml

price: 396 php (Around $8.65+)

198 php (Around $4.32+ )

place bought: Free

Please refer to the links below on where and how to avail their products

Natura Organics

Natura Organics Essentiel and iamophelia_natura on Instagram, 

Natura Organics Essentiel and Ophelia_NaturaOrganics on Facebook

To shop online: Text/Viber 09163089155 Jessica and SMS/Vibe/whatsapp/iMessage Ophelia at +6598307813 for orders

instructions for use: Apply a small amount of shampoo to hair and scalp, massage thoroughly to create a rich lather, then rinse.

ingredients: Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Fruit Water, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Water, Coco Betaine, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Hydrolyzed Oats, Morinda Citrifolia (Noni) Extract, Vegetable Glycerin, Pro Vitamin B5 Panthenol, Camellia Sinensis Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Leaf Extract, Essential Oils of Patchouli, Lemon, Frankincense, Myrr and Jasmine, Citric Acid

Product Review: Purest by Natura Organics ReVOLUMIZING Shampoo 
the texture of this shampoo is semi-thick but runny

What I like:

• The price is more affordable than the competition organic brands in the market today.
• The packaging is sleek and sturdy. It has a pump that dispenses the right amount of product.
• The bottle packaging is transparent. I can see how many amount of product left in the container.
• Well-sealed upon purchase. You can see product certifications printed on the bottle.
• The scent is divine! Loving the sweet scent of this shampoo.
• The texture is semi-thick and runny.
• It is easy to apply and produces a good lather.
• There's a cooling sensation on my hair and scalp every time I use this product.
• My hair feels squeaky clean after using this shampoo.
• I noticed less hair fall after combing my hair.
• I have thin and limp hair and this shampoo gives it volume.
• My hair became shiny and looks healthy even if it's already showing signs of abuse from hair dyes.
• Makes my hair less frizzy and dry.
• No breakouts, zits, allergies, or whatsoever on my forehead where I sometimes experience when using new variant of shampoo.
• Since this is all-natural, it's safe for pregnant ladies.

What I don't like:

• No expiry date printed on the bottle.
• I need more than 8 pumps for my long hair to produce a good lather.
• Not easily accessible.
• I need to pair it with a conditioner because it makes my hair stiff but after using Purest conditioner, it's all manageable. I think this is because I'm more of a conditioner than a shampoo user.

Will I repurchase: Yes, it's in the realm of possibility :)

Recommendation:

     I give this a 4.5/5 rating. This shampoo really contains natural oils and made from natural products. You can see the transparency list. It is made from natures finest ingredients that will make your tresses healthy and vibrant. As for my experience, be sure to pump an ample amount of product if you want to have a good lather. If you're like me who needs more conditioning properties because my hair is color-treated, a heavy duty conditioner will be your best friend if you find your hair stiff after shampooing. Purest by Natura Organics also has a conditioner that smells divine! I will muse my experience in a separate review.

Have you tried using an organic and all-natural shampoo before? Share your experience dearies!

Good Times!~

DISCLAIMER: This product was sent to me by Natura Organics for a review. The thoughts expressed here are my honest opinion about the product. What works for me may not work for you or vice versa. 

Product Review: Ishigaki Premium Plus Glutathione

     Hi, dearies! This is a very long overdue review. I received 2 bottles of Ishigaki Premium Plus Glutathione from Cheska's Online Store last May. I'm already familiar with the brand even before I started blogging. I haven't tried it because I was pregnant that time and I don't care about whitening supplements. If my memory serves me right, ladies were discreet when it comes to taking whitening supplements here in our country 7 years ago. But when popular celebrities became endorsers of glutathione supplements, the demand for whitening products surge.

     I'm also a lurker in different beauty forums before that's why I've read real experiences from users of this brand. I've seen more of positive results than negative ones. Almost 70-80% of women who were active in the discussion highly recommend this brand. Since I haven't tried this brand before, I'm not sure what are the differences of the old from the new formulation. This review is solely based on my personal experience. I've finished two bottles after six weeks. There were times I take one capsule and there were times I take two. To know more about my experience, scroll down dearies!

Product Review: Ishigaki Premium Plus Glutathione

Ishigaki Premium Plus Glutathione

     This unique custom-blend of Glutathione Tri-Peptide and essential amino acids were carefully formulated not just for skin lightening but as well as for the total wellness of the skin, hair, nails, and bones. It helps repair damaged cells from free radical stresses and aids in attaining a healthy, smooth and fairer skin.

IMPORTANT information about this product:

• Ishigaki l-glutathione (food supplement) is a registered trademark. Duplicating the label, design, graphics or product name is illegal and a punishable offense.
• Ishigaki l-glutathione has been filed and registered to IPO (Intellectual Property Office) with registered no.42008006437.
• Please be guided accordingly.
• It is now in a new packaging- laminated (glossy label)
• Ingredients manufactured & imported from Japan.
• Exclusively manufactured for and distributed by: HSE under Japan and USP Standards Campbel, CA 95008 U.S.A.
• There is fake Ishigaki glutathione in the market today so be sure to buy from trusted sellers.

Product Review: Ishigaki Premium Plus Glutathione

Serving Size 1 capsule- 850 mg

Servings per container- 30 capsules

Supplement Facts: 

Glutathione Tri-Peptide:

L- Glutamic Acid 200 mg

L- Cysteine 200 mg

Glacine 200 mg 

N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine 100 mg

L-Methionine 50 mg

L-Proline 50 mg

L- Threonine 50 mg

Product Review: Ishigaki Premium Plus Glutathione
2 capsules of Ishigaki Premium Pluse Glutathione + 2 500 mg of Sodium Ascorbate Vitamin C

size: 30 capsules/bottle good for 1-month use

price: 800 php (Around $17.50+)

place bought: Free 

Available at http://www.cheskasstore.net/

instruction for use: Take 1-2 capsules daily with meals. Best taken 30 minutes before or after eating. I also take 500 mg Vitamin C prior to this capsule.

other ingredients:  Kosher Gelatin Capsule, Magnesium Stearate, Cellulose

Product Review: Ishigaki Premium Plus Glutathione
A not so recent photo, this was taken in an event. You can see in the background that I'm basking under the sun. 

What I like:

• The price- the cheapest glutathione brand in the market today.
• The bottle packaging is handy. It is tightly sealed once you purchase a bottle so no need to worry about contamination.
• There's a stinky rotten egg odour once you open the bottle- it only means that it's authentic. I've read in some forums that authentic glutathione should smell like rotten egg. 
• This glutathione also contains L-cysteine and N-Acetyl-Cysteine known as potent boosters to speed up the whitening process of the skin.
• I didn't experience any discomforts like vomiting, headache, nausea, breakouts, or whatsoever.
• It made my skin glowing even if I always stay up late at night or if I only have 4 hours of sleep.
• It lessened cystic pimples popping around my chin which I experience every month.
• The color of my freckles lightened a bit while I'm taking this capsule.
• After finishing 2 bottles, light scars from insect bites are not that visible.
• It maintained my skin tone even. I took this last May 27 until June 30 and during those days, I'm always out in the sun. I attend events in the afternoon and there are times that I forgot to bring my umbrella.
• I'm already fair to begin with but it made my skin not pale or yellow white but more of a pinkish/rosy white tone.
• Batch, manufacturing and expiry date printed on the package.

What I don't like:

• Not easily accessible, you have to purchase it online.
• No assurance if this product is BFAD approved.

Will I purchase? It's in the realm of possibility.

Recommendation:

     I give this a 4.75/5 rating. One of the cheapest brands IMO. If you have a morena skin tone, it is best to use this brand for more than 3 months. The effectiveness of one product really varies from person to person. This supplement is also meant to treat blood disorders and serves as an antioxidant in the liver. So if you smoke, drink, and always stay late at night this supplement will also help cleanse the toxins from those I mentioned above in your body. Just leave a comment below if you questions and I will try my best to answer them. 

Have you tried taking glutathione as a daily supplement? Hope you can share your experience :) 

For orders and other inquiries on Cheska's Online Store, you may reach them through,
email: cheskasstore@yahoo.com
mobile numbers: 0915-3463000, 0922-5458124 and 0928-3997789
Like them on Facebook: Cheska's Store
Follow them on Instagram: @cheskasstore

Good Times!~

DISCLAIMER: This product was sent to me by Cheska's Online Store for review. The views expressed here are my honest opinion about the product. What works for me may not work for you or vice versa. I don't take glutathione on a regular basis. My review is based on my experience during the time and period I'm taking it.