Bumming Around In Progress

Do you hear that? That's me getting fat by the minute.

First time in years.

This vacation has been all about eating, drinking and playing with the kids.

Fishing Picnic

Fresh seafood and cold beer have never been so good.

Diwal (Angel Wing Shells)

If you think mussels look dirty, the diwal actually takes the cake.

I have a hunch straight guys get a hard-on just by looking at this thing. Pictures don't do it justice.

We had a party last night and I found myself standing next to the lechon chopping table holding a bottle of beer with oil glistening on my lips. I felt like I was doing something really dirty and sinful yet irresistibly pleasurable. For a second, I thought I was going to be arrested.

This is what vacations are all about I guess, right?

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Not So Far But Away

The past few days have been pretty hectic. Good thing it's not exactly because of work and school.

Irritating Moment: Missing My Stop

I'm currently home because relatives from abroad are here. This weekend, I went from going around cosmopolitan Manille to skipping along a shallow river in a town somewhere in Iloilo where getting network reception is like asking for rain in the middle of summer. Now, I'm just home trying to have a great time with family. No rice patties nor sky scrapers. Just home---just the way I like it.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

The Embassy Bitch Who Needs to Get Laid Stat

You know how I abhor doing transactions in government offices and the like? Well, I just had another unfortunate brush with one of the flame-breathing monsters in this cesspit of hell.

After being slightly scolded for being late, I went straight to the South African embassy yesterday morning as an errand for my uncle who also happens to be my boss.

When I got to the embassy at RCBC, I was relieved that there was no line. I waited patiently while this foreign (Turkish?) woman with a baby on her arms cheerfully chatted with the consul. Then came my turn after not even 5 minutes of waiting.

For a moment, I thought the middle-aged, Filipino consul didn't see me because she was too busy arranging some files on a table a few feet from the window. Then she came over and had me place the documents on the bin. She removed the folder and the slide as well as the money and put them back on the bin with force. After a few minutes of reviewing the requirements, she told me the errors and the lacking documents with no hint at all of friendliness or willingness to help. Hesitant, I muster the guts to ask questions which she answered begrudgingly.

It's no different on the phone. I'm not sure if it's the same person who takes the calls in this office but bitch also has an attitude.

I came back this morning hoping yesterday was just an off-day. Maybe she was going through a hard time? Who knows? Fair enough, when the same consul approached the window, I thought she seemed more pleasant. Without saying a word, she opened the bin which I took as a sign for me to put the documents sans folder, slide and money. After expecting each document, barely moving her lips she said bluntly , "Paste the photos," and threw in the form, pictures and glue in the bin. Apparently, bitch still had a giant spear stuck up her old, wrinkly ass.

"The marriage certificate will be returned upon claiming the visa, right?" I asked.

"Yes," bitch said icily.

It was a relief we finally got it right this time. If I have to go back and face that old hag again, I swear I may just lose it and go all psycho on her ass.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Starturday

Yesterday was a blast with my classmates. We went from school to Greenbelt, to school again, then Star City, and finally, Harbor Square. It's our way of starting the new term right by making the most of our time while not yet drowning in school work.

Fuck, homework just got sent via email. Who the hell sends homework on a Sunday night? Bitch needs to get a grip. I am not in the mood for this shit. I have a vacation coming up!

Anyway, Saturday was awesome... A little costly and tiring but awesome.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Interesting Afternoon

I was in Makati today when MFG and I decided to meet up and grab a bite. He asked me to give him an hour so I used the time by depositing money for the rent. Then I had nowhere else to go so I wandered around and found this place called Alexa's Deli along H.V. Dela Costa.

I expected a price point similar to that of Starbucks so I was pleasantly surprised upon seeing AD's. They have a slightly less expensive selection of cold and hot drinks, sandwiches, pasta dishes and pastries. Being a wine shop, they also serve wine and cheese, which is awesome.

What I love is it's nestled in the middle of the business district yet it's not noisy or buzzing or crowded unlike other coffee shops.

The interiors are not bad. Although I'm not so sure about that wall vinyl.

Slightly hungry, I decided to have something light. Their chicken empanada was actually good but it's their house iced tea that's more memorable.

I'd love to go back to this charming sanctuary in the middle of the city. It really has a modern, laid back vibe that I like.

Apres AD, I decided to walk to Amici at the Ayala Triangle where I told MFG I'll meet him. Thank goodness for the cool January breeze, I barely broke a sweat.

I love this part of Makati. It's a refreshing patch of greenery amidst a jungle of concrete and glass.

It was MFG who decided on Amici. He wanted the original one at Don Bosco but I said I didn't want to go there so I informed him that I was at the one in Ayala. Despite that, he still went to the other one which was irritating. He apparently was in house clothes so he didn't want to be walking around Ayala.

Fuming, I left Amici- Ayala and tried to hail a cab to no avail. I gave up and just hopped into a jeepney. A few seconds upon settling in, MFG sent a text saying (begrudgingly) he was already on his way to Ayala. So I got off at the next stop and marched back. It was a mess. To make the long story short, we both got upset. After endless text messaging and walking, we were finally seated facing each other at Amici- Ayala.

During the first few minutes, he was being uncomfortably quiet. Then finally, he unloaded. He started to bitch about the whole thing which is exactly what I would have done had we ended up at Don Bosco. I have to say, it was really great of him to come over despite "looking like the house help". (His words! Not mine!)

The so-so meal was filled with the usual banter, his sermon, laughter; he in his house garb and slippers, me in my half-assed corporate attire with a crumpled shirt.

I forgot to mention that I actually had work today and I just stepped out for a while to be in Makati. Hence, the phone call from the office while we were waiting for the bill. It was already dark when we went out.

You know how impossible it is to get a cab around the business district during rush hour so we agreed to walk to Makati Avenue, which is where MFG lives.

We noticed a crowd gathering around this vintage looking car at Petron. I'm not sure what their deal is.

A (White) Family Driving Around the World

It was almost 7pm when MFG and I parted ways. Save for the slight misunderstanding, I wish all afternoons were like this; breezy, fun and comforting.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Bang

If the first day of the year is any indication of how the rest of 2011 will be, then I'm in for a lot of cooking, watching Modern Family, Facebook, and hours of unproductive online wandering.

I ended up spending  new year's eve at my friend's place in Cubao and celebrated with her family. It was fun but quite uneventful. When I went home via cab, we passed by this accident at EDSA involving a tricycle (I know!) and a Montero. The cab driver turned on the radio and it turns out there were two kids involved. What a horrible, horrible way to start the year.

Today, I realized I'm out of garlic. So I decided to take a walk to the market a couple of blocks away. What greeted me is the scene pictured above. There was a riot I think. Great.

There's so much negative vibes. I, for one, haven't been great. It's been pretty boring, sucky even. Gawd. I'm not holding my breath for it since there's a ton of work waiting for me, but I hope tomorrow will be a much better day.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Random Rants

Butch Shoes

Air Jordan 11 Retro Grey

Believe it or not, there was a time when I wore basketball shoes regularly like the way I wear Chucks or espadrilles nowadays. That was way back in grade school up to high school when some of my pants could fit one person in each leg.

It's my brother's and father's fault. They were both so into the Nike Air Jordans and the Adidas Kobe pairs. I remember having Grant Hill's shoes by Fila, Kobe's by Adidas, Dennis Rodman's by Converse and Jason Kidd's by Nike.

Thankfully, me and my father have since moved on to other shoes. My brother, however, has become obsessed with these things. He has been collecting Air Jordans since he went abroad. Last week, we were chatting online and he expressed how he was feeling "fucking bad" because he missed the one pictured above. Apparently, there are a lot of lunatics out there who waited in line and the limited edition shoes sold like hot cakes.

So I felt bad for him because I know what it feels like to lose a shopping opportunity like that. He told me it is my "mission" to find those shoes once I get back in Manila. Little did he know that I was already making phone calls.

The six outlets that carried the pairs in Manila sold out, Nike Iloilo seemed clueless about it, but luckily, the one in Ayala, Cebu, still had 2 pairs in his size. So the race begins.

It's a good thing my friend Rica, who is based in Mactan, was kind enough to go all the way to Ayala, pick up the damn shoes and send them our way. Now, my brother is in cloud nine and I feel like a fucking hero because that's what family is for, right?

TVs in Restaurants

What is up with restaurants having TVs? Seriously! Italliani's? Burgoo? Really? What the fuck. I swear it turns the hell off of me. I see a nice looking restaurant with a seemingly sumptuous menu, then I see a fucking TV and I'm like "No." It's a total deal breaker! Even when I eat out alone, I still don't want it. I ruins the ambience, the experience, it's very, uhm, carinderic. Please, just off with the TVs! Thanks.

D-listed

If people go on movie marathons and Korean drama series marathons, well I have been on a Kathy Griffin Youtube marathon. It's insane because these are videos that I've seen multiple times before; Bravo specials, her series, guestings, you name it. I just can't stop. It's too hard. It's like crack.

With a fizzle?

What are you doing on new year's eve? Me? Oh, I don't know, maybe curl up on my bend and cry myself to sleep?

The initial plan to party it up in some hotel in Makati isn't likely to happen. I can go to my aunt's place in Cavite or just celebrate with my friend Jules and her sister's family but I don't know.We'll see. Either way, have a great, happy, healthy, wonderful new year!

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Back for New Year's

Good morning girls and boys and girly boys!

So I'm back in Manila. I arrived yesterday. Is it sad that I went straight to work just a couple of hours after touchdown? When I got to the office, a pile of work shit on my side table welcomed me back. Now, I just woke up and I miss not having to worry about what to eat.

Tomorrow, H, myself and another friend were supposed to welcome 2011 partying in a hotel in Makati. The other friend bailed out and H will not be able to stay the entire night. What the hell am I going to do? I don't know yet. But I do know I desperately need to get my hair cut stat!

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Fail

Last Monday, my friend Jen and I went up all the way to Anti-fucking-polo for a job interview. I already had doubts when I found out the interview is going to be in this bumfuck place. It was a surprise since this is with a major TV network.

I headed out despite feeling sick. Good thing my friend was kind enough to accompany me. Man was it a long way. And to think I considered going there in a cab.

Imagine my shock upon finally reaching their office.

Yeah, we had to ride a trike because this place is a couple of blocks off the highway. Check out the surroundings.

I was confident because I believed the written works I submitted were pretty good. When I realized I have to work here (given I get hired), I got discouraged and just wanted to get the interview over with.

The idea of me working in such a rural setting, in a very far away place that would take me two hours to get to, where the cafeteria is a nipa hut tucked beside some resident's house and some foliage, is so ridiculous, Jen and I had a good laugh about it.

Before the interview, I had to accomplish a 4-part writing test. My work was so uninspired. I had to write it in their lobby where male employees were chit chatting about sports and other uninteresting topics. I was told I only had 30 minutes but my work wasn't collected until over an hour later.

During the interview, I wasn't nervous at all because the setting was quite informal. Did I mention I just wanted to get it over with and scram? That's until I found out mid-way that they are actually relocating to Shaw, which is about 15 minutes from my place, in March 2011.

I thought I was cool during the interview but apparently 'cool' isn't going to cut it because they still haven't invited me to meet the channel head. They told me I'd receive a text within the following 5 days if I'm qualified for the next level. It's been a week.

Yeah, I'm a little bitter. But whatever.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Holidays with HS Friends

Oh, how time has passed.

Luke, Pet, Melissa, Hanna and moi.

Last night, me and some very good friends from high school got together to have our own little Christmas party. I can't believe it's been almost 10 years!

There's about 2 or 3 people missing but we had a good time. After having dinner by the beach and boozing up a little at Mel's place, we went to some bars then had a bite at this cheap ass place that serves very "hearty" shiz like deep fried chicken skin.

You know what I like about us? We still say and do the same bullshit, or even worse, which means better.

Enjoy the holidays with your family and friends. Merry Merry Christmas!

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Some Concerns

My dad just went inside the room and saw the boots that I got some weeks ago. He just smiled and even laughed if I'm not mistaken. That's a good thing I assume. Plus, he hasn't asked me yet about getting a girlfriend. Let's not go there please.

This morning, my mom and I went to the doctor to get my throat checked. We're seriously considering a tonsillectomy but the doctor suggested that we observe it (again). If it still doesn't go back to normal after a week with the stronger medication, we're going to have to do a swab culture to identify which type of micro-organisms are fucking up my throat. For a moment, I worried that they may find, uhm, sperm in the sample but I realized, no, that's highly unlikely. So I'm relieved.

Oh, and I just extended my stay. Kudos to Cebu Pacific for now allowing customers to change or cancel flights online!

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Home For Christmas

What up bitches? I'm finally home.

Can you spot me? (No, not the glittery flower silly.)

I have just woken up from a 5-hour slumber here in our humble abode after having been awake for over 24 hours. I didn't sleep last night/earlier while waiting for my flight. Instead, I met up with MFG for a very late dinner just before I headed to the airport. What's funny is I actually feel better now despite the physical exhaustion. I think my fever is gone.

I'm thinking of extending my stay. But I don't know. We'll see. Here's to finally enjoying the holidays!

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Good News Bad News

Let me just tell you how ashamed I am of myself for not blogging regularly lately. It's not good! But as usual, I'm short on time. It's been crazy. I'm supposed to leave for home in just a few hours. I'm not even sure if I'll be able to get some sleep. My flight is at 5:30am. I haven't even packed yet! Plus, I'm also very sick so yeah, happy holidaze alright.

Despite all this, I'm feeling good right now. I just saw my grades online! You see, I flunked a midterm exam and I've been paranoid since then. It's a relief that I don't have to go home bearing bad news. Not only did I pass, I actually did more than good! It's awesome!

Now let's hope I don't miss my flight and I get well soonest, yes? Later.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Still Alive

What is it like to blog again? My gawd, it's been ages!

Between work and the unending academic responsibilities I've had to deal with lately, plus my fucking throat, which I'm seriously considering getting surgically removed--the tonsils that is, it has been very hard for me to feel the Christmas spirit.

Remember that guy I was talking about in my last post? Yeah, well he's history. We had a petty argument last week and since then we didn't bother to patch things up. I think we both knew it wasn't working out. He was great as a date. But I just couldn't see myself being with him for the rest of my life and this perception is most likely mutual. Anyway, we all saw this coming didn't we? The most heartbroken  person in this situation however is my housemate who really liked the guy (for me) a lot.

It's probably a good idea to stay single for a now. I don't know if I can juggle a serious relationship together with school and work. It astounds me though how I was able to squeeze in a very late lunch with MFG today considering I had a major presentation afterwards for school.

How about you? If you haven't done any Christmas shopping yet, you're not alone. I guess I'll see you at the check-out lines!

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Dates, Updates, Due Dates

The past two weeks have been packed. Hence, the lack of updates. It's not ending soon as I have finals to worry about---and then there's work and the occasional dates that I try to squeeze in.

Speaking of dates, last week, I met a guy. We've been seeing each other almost everyday since that first date. He's very thoughtful, low maintenance and not bad looking. But I'm not sure if I'm ready to take this to a more serious level. I'm beginning to think it's me that there's something wrong with. Oh well. Let's see how this one turns out.

How's your December coming along? Oh, happy Hanukkah by the way! I've already booked my tickets to go home this Christmas. As much as I want to give in to the excitement and giddiness by planning the meals I'll whip up for my family and maybe by doing a little shopping, I have to focus on school first. I am one report (due in 2 days), one final exam and one marketing plan away from either going home with a merry holiday spirit or with bad, embarrassing news. Do me a favor and pray I don't fail graduate school, yes? Thanks!

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Who rocked it better?

It's the prince versus the pauper. Whose look is more homeless than chic?

Styling Supernova Nicola Formichetti

Minimum Waging Fashion Nobody Yours Truly

It's obvious. Nicola who? Hahahah...

Check out his blog for more styling genius.

Photo: BoF

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Pictionary: My Bloody Wall

This is a long delayed post. I finished painting my wall weeks ago but I didn't get the chance to shoot it until yesterday. I wanted to capture it with natural light.

It's not noticeable in the pictures but the color of that column at the right is different from the rest of the wall. I painted that part a few weeks before I finished the entire wall. I originally planned to cover the rest of the wall with this gorgeous black and off white, victorian wallpaper that I saw at True Value but I thought one roll wouldn't be enough and two would just be too damn expensive. So now I have a solid red wall which reminds me of Mr. Big's. He didn't quite like his "communist China" wall though while I really like mine.

This sitting area of the room needs a few more furnishings; a floor lamp is at the top of the list followed by a bean bag or a small ottoman and a rug.

Circles

Homeless Chic at Home

Off topic: This is an old shirt that I wear at home especially to bed. It's perfectly, naturally distressed. I can't get over how comfortable and Rodarte-ish it is.

This antique, wooden sofa (?) is from my housemate H.

By the way, have you noticed the interesting shift of interest from fashion design to interior design? I definitely have. I think it's a sensible transition during these days of fashion this, fashion that. I personally have been more inclined to visit furniture shops lately than clothing stores. I'm not turning my back against fashion, no. But I like how I've recently developed a special liking for interior design and architecture. I like to think it broadens my creative sensibilities.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

The (Gay) Social Network

You know what I hate? Having to go back to square one---but hopefully with a lesson or two in mind.

After weeks of neglecting my my homo-tastic online account, it has recently been revived and now back in business. It's one of the things I hate love hate love hate love hate after a break-up falling out.

Most of the time, it's an eye-roll fiesta what with the bullshit 99% of these guys say. And don't even get me started with those pictures where they're "smizing" like drop-outs from the Tyra Banks School of Modelling. Isn't it funny how everyone wants to be a model and/or photographer these days? Yeah, it's fun and laughter at times but there are moments when you just want to shoot the computer and hope the bullet comes shooting out of his screen.

You had me at 'hello', you lost me at 'sex po tau'.

There are a number of hot guys out there, sure. But a lot of them should really just shut up or leave their profiles with the basic information. Otherwise, they end up proving to you that God, after all, is fair. If he is too fond of replacing the 's' with a 'z' I'd rather get some Zs than talk to him. Like, zeriously.

Also, cut the crap with the "I'm just a simple guy" statement. It's not cute. It's pretentious in most cases. That sensitive guy front ain't gon' fly wit' me! Oh, and you know how they send you a message with unnecessary formality introducing themselves courteously and tell you poignant thoughts about love and hope? Aww... No.

OkIfeelbetteraboutmyselfnowbye.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Heart Under Repair

Because I'm such an expert at love, err, heartbreaks, let me break down the four stages of a break-up/falling out as I understand it. Notice how many times I used the word 'break'?

1. Hurt- This is where the impact is the most methinks. It starts with denial. This also entails a careful assessment of how the situations were handled. Self-pity is also pretty common. Everything is a hot damn mess bound to be filled with tears and maybe even alcohol. Emotional extravaganza, anyone?
2. Bitterness-"I'm ok. I mean, I'm happier without him. What the hell was I thinking?! I deserve someone much better." Riiight. Try not to shoot those lovers canoodling in public.
3. Acceptance- You're slowly starting to open up (Read: Slutty McJizz. JK). Gradually, you realize that you'll actually be alright, if not truly better, without him. These are the last days in heartbreak rehab. All of a sudden, there's an abundance of very eligible guys. A little sting may still be felt everytime you remember him but it's not the kind that lingers.
4. Apathy or Friendship- You know longer care about the "Who Dies Miserably" game. In fact, there may even be a genuine care for this ex or former love interest. Wishes of his demise are replaced by sincere apologies or friendly greetings. This stage though is the hardest to come to. Some people get stuck in either of the last three ones which is really horrible and one of the reasons why love is so fucked up.

The worst effect of getting your heart broken is it exhausts you of your ability to trust. It makes you lose faith and could possibly leave you with a cat, anguish ridden Facebook shout-outs, and a table for one in your favorite cafe. Yet, here we are thinking it's worth another shot.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Hardest Hit

It's heartbreaking that for the first time when you're willingly, even gladly, giving up the freedom that you've been so used to enjoying just to be with this person for the rest of your life, you realize it's still simply not enough.

It's funny how he questioned my faith and commitment when now... this.

He's right. I've been an emotional wreck lately only holding on to a promise that a part of me wishes he never made. I've been a mess and will probably be so in the next couple of days. But I appreciate his honesty no matter how much it hurts. I just wish we talked about it personally.

I know he'll probably read this just like the way he reads the rest of my entries that practically declare I'll slash my wrist for him. The thought of him constantly getting a peek into my mind and heart has sometimes discouraged me to talk about it here. It's unfair that he gets these updates whereas I would barely get a text from him for days and at times I'm left in the dark. "Faith," I said to myself. But this is my blog. My turf. He, or anyone for that matter, is free to make assumptions. I, on the other hand, am just being honest and I do not intend to censor myself to make a desirable impression on people.

This means I get to keep Christmas. Uhm, happy holidays?

Love really does fuck you up, doesn't it? But I can't say I'm surprised. Logic has been nagging me for some time now but I dismissed it and chose to be hopeful, faithful. And you know what? I don't regret it.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Two Hearts

It's been crazy. You know when you're in the middle of a laugh and suddenly it hits you, and you feel your cheeks slightly deflate, your smile awkwardly disappearing?

The past two weeks have seen the emotional whirlwind that I've been in. But I'm not alone apparently.

I got out of church to find 6 missed calls and 1 message on my phone. I have to be honest. I wasn't surprised. But I was upset naturally.

She sat on the couch recalling what had occured while I was listening intently. Seeing a tear on her sleeve and bruises on both her arms crushed me. I thought about revenge. But fortunately, we're better than that. I know how trampled she was but she barely cried. And when she did, I sat closer and only caressed her head. Embracing her seemed more meaningful but I thought we'd both just break down.

I know she'll get pass this. Maybe not soon, but it should only get better from here. She deserves much, much better.

As for me, well, no amount of shopping, going out and other debauchery kept me from thinking about one person. I see a nose with a "Jewish bump" and I remember him. I know. I know.

Oh, I don't know.

Anyway, here's one of the songs that I have on repeat lately.



Faith. Hope. Love. That's all. Good night!

literarybulimia@gmail.com

True (Rainbow) Colors

Touching.



Right now, there's only one person whose acceptance and understanding I'm really hoping for.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

D Day

Attending fashion week was my way of renewing my commitment to fashion. Today, I re-affirmed my commitment to health and fitness. While everyone else spent their day remembering loved ones who passed away, I stayed home whipping up meals.

It has been two months since I last set foot in the gym. So I decided to detoxify today. No rice. No meat.

For breakfast, I had what I eat pretty much everyday; oatmeal with a little sugar, a banana, and Milo with coffee and cream. The chocolate drink and oatmeal combo helps speed up my metabolism.

For lunch, I prepared a salad with lettuce, arugula, singkamas/jicama and tomatoes dressed with vinaigrette and a sprinkling of just a little bit of cheese on top. I had it with orange slices and pineapple juice. It would have been a really refereshing meal had I not put too much dressing. My homemade vinaigrette was literally dripping from my chin. I got a little queazy afterwards.

Dinner was much more enjoyable. I had mashed potatoes, corn on a cob and egg salad with pineapple juice. I cooked/made everything except for the gravy.

I also tried to jog this evening but it won't stop raining so I decided to just go home and sweat it out indoors. Crazy dancing anyone?

I should do this more often. Nothing beats that lightness after getting rid of useless crap from your body.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

PFW SS 2011

Honestly, at first, I was thinking "What the hell am I doing here?" Then half-naked models strut down the runway.

SMX

My Philippine Fashion Week "debut" was so full of hunger and lining up that at the end of the shows, which was around 11PM, I was ready to devour a whole pack of gum just to have something to digest besides my own intestines. I felt like a real model then.

Rommel, Erin, moi

We arrived around 4:30PM just in time for the Junjun Cambe show followed by Lito Perez's. The former's collection was quite good but it's sad how the PR people didn't even bother to fill some of the empty front and second row seats. Kelly Cutrone does not approve!

Tokyo Cafe

I went with Rommel and of course Erin who naturally knew a lot of people at the shows. He introduced us to the fun (and flirty? lol) Gabbie Sarenas who is also a fashion designer.

This was around 6PM. My next meal was around 1AM at Makati Avenue.

Me and Gabbie

 
Attending these fashion shows is really not an easy feat, especially for plebs like us (excluding Gabbie) who have to register and stand in line to get in.

Non-Front Row

It's surprising. I never really expected that much people to flock SMX. I got a little scared for my life at the Penshoppe show because it felt like the bleachers were about to collapse. Penshoppe, by the way, is going for a Parisian summer next year. A lot of the items really reminded me of Mango. Are they targeting a new market segment? It's an interesting shift.

What we mainly came for was the Visions and Trends Show which our friend Xernan Orticio is a part of. My favorites are Bo Parcon (Goth  and grey!), Kermit Tesoro (McQueen inspired?), Don Protasio (The shoes are fantastic!), Xernan Orticio (Amazing construction!) and this other one (whose name I completely forgot) who showed Pucci-colored catsuits. The rest? Meh or utterly gauche methinks.

As for the models, it was great seeing Charlene Almarvez in the flesh but the best catwalk-er would have to be Ria Bolivar, followed closely by Grendel Alvarado. Best abs goes to Carlo Adorador.

Those are the combat boots in the big, black bag I'm talking about in my last post.

After the shows, friends and some acquaintances were egging us to come with them to Cubao X but I was simply too friggin' tired and hungry for that. So Erin and I just went to Makati Avenue ang pigged out. We're not models after all. But let me tell you this, my being famished the entire time allowed me to breathe better in those pants.

literarybulimia@gmail.com