Planning for Planaforma

If only I weren't so lazy then I wouldn't have a problem going to the gym every so often. But the problem is, I am lazy. So very lazy to toil away in a hot stuffy gym only to impose upon myself streinuous activities that would only lead to the unduly demise of my body.


Yes, after not working out for a long time and going back to the "healthy" routine, by body aches for 3 days and after, its as if, nothing happened - and I don't really feel a pound lighter. This is very difficult to accept especially since I have a personal venedetta to reach my previous... okay... (very previous) weight of 100lbs.


I'm tired of running around The Fort and seeing the same old sights only to eventually get tempted to go eat a cupcake and have some coffee after. (I might as well stayed at home)


It's a good thing a friend had recommended to go visit Planaforma in the 6th Flr of JecoPrime Building in the Fort (It's the undone building along the street of Essensa.) Finally, I had something to do aside from going boxing.

PLANAFORMA

   

This 55 minute class is a full body workout that features an efficiently structured series of muscle sprints and stretches, incorporating elements from dance, pilates and yoga. The pace is faster and the challenges are never the same.

It defines thighs, lifts seat, tones arms, and strengthens abdominals to create a lean and sculpted physique that is strong and efficiently mobile. You will notice increased lung capacity and metabolic rate, improved body awareness and posture, increased bone density which is crucial to health maintenance, stronger core and back muscles which reduces lower back pains, and better stress management.

What makes a Plana FORMA™ class memorable is the intense heat of muscles firing up to the point of exhaustion and the relief and pride of having embraced that heat, a sense of fulfillment knowing the limits have been hurdled.

What boxing is to weight loss, Planaforma is to my toning.

This is me... 2 months from now. Riiight!

Plana Forma™ Benefits

• defined body
• increased lung capacity
• long, lean, and sexy muscles
• a strong, toned and flexible body
• improved body awareness
• strong back and improved posture
• increased bone density
• firm seat
• strong core and improved balance
• better stress management
• improved muscular balance for injury prevention
• complements other sports activities and exercise

Look at their cute socks for Php 70!

• Single Class PhP 650.00
• 5 Class Package: PhP 2,900  (PhP 580.00 / class)
• 10 Class Package: PhP 5,300 (PhP 530.00/ class)
• 20 Class Package: PhP 10,200 (PhP 510 / class)
• New Comers Monthly Unlimited PhP 3,000.00
• 1 Month Unlmited: PhP 5,300.00
• 6 Month Unlimited: PhP 28,500.00
• Annual Member: PhP 50,000.00
• New Comer’s Special: 2 classes for PhP 650.00 (PhP 325.00 / class)

Single classes, 5 and 10 class series packages expire three (3) months from the date of purchase.

20 class series packages expire six (6) months from the date of purchase.
Monthly unlimited packages expire 31 days from date of activation.
For health and safety reasons, all unlimited packages are limited to 3 classes per day.
Special promotional packages and workshops may have shorter expiration dates.

Here is their special package!

Thank you, Planaforma! Visit them here: http://forma-asia.com/

What's your form of workout?

XOXO,
Erika

LIVE.FASHIONABLY.

 

Searching for Spectacles

CURRENT SOURCE OF DAILY INSPIRATION:

Illesteva Eyewear- When eyewear is not just an after thought.

I’ve been in a constant search for the perfect pair of glasses that will make me look both “responsible” being the key word and of course,  still fun, young and stylish.

If I were to spend so much on a pair anyway, I might as well make sure it would last me forever. I would have prolonged the need to buy a new pair of spectacles but alas, the company benefits force me to do this. As I check and look for inspiration (both locally and abroad) here is what I have… and these will take me towards the perfect pair during my hunt later!

I’m tired of my typical square glasses with black frames. (I’m trying to stay away from this because they say it makes me look more “unapproachable”) And I’m sick of the typical Rayban type that everyone else seems to be using. This time around, I’m leaning towards the torqiose shell, brown, cat’s eye shape… Maybe Chanel? I wish!

See thy Pegs: 

Prada - USD 280

Dolce & Gabanna - USD 260

Tiffany & Co - USD 320

I like the last one the most. Loving the color especially and the shape. Its priced at USD 320 or around Php 14,000.

Worth it?

What are your favorite spectacles?

XOXO,

Erika

LIVE. FASHIONABLY.

Say Hello to Forever

There is no denying the fact that many of you Makati, Fort and Southerners are about to go crazy with this news.

   

Yes, indeed, Forever 21 is about to open in SM Makati, Ground Floor right where the teens and cosmetics area used to be. Although there is no exact date as to when this is “big” event should come to pass, I highly suggest that you ready your budgets and your wallets) for that one big urge to “pass by” and simply ‘check it out”.


Truly, I have yet to see the miracle of a girl “passing by” without holding a bag on the way out.


I don’t have to tell you what to expect as I am sure we have all visited either the store itself -may it be here in Manila (SM Megamall) one of its outlets abroad, or through its website. Yes, we've always loved its reasonable prices for its very trendy offerings.

You’d be surprised to hear however, that so few people know of its history. This American brand is actually not so American. So here goes…


“Founded by Do Won (Don) and Jin Sook Chang in 1984, Forever 21 started humbly on the bustling street of Figueroa in Los Angeles as Fashion 21. Having immigrated to the United States just three years before hand from South Korea, the Changs quickly realized a need for affordable clothing that was fresh, modern and trendy.


The first store was only 900 square feet. 20 years later, Forever 21 stores have grown to just under 400 stores (some of which now boast an impressive 24,000 square feet), mostly within malls in the United States, Canada, Dubai and Singapore. Revenue for 2006 was a whopping $1.05 billion and with more than 12,000 employees, Forever 21 continues to grow at a rate of 30 new stores every year.” – The Fashion Slinger

So here are the Forever 2's Around the World…

Forever 21 Tokyo

Forever 21 Singapore

Forever 21 New York

Forever 21 California

Forever 21 Dubai

And our love… Forever 21 Manila (SM Megamall)

What's is or shall I say, (what are) you favorite Forever 21 buys?

XOXO,

Erika and Marga

LIVE. FASHIONABLY.

Under the Radar, the Celine Luggage Tote (Loving it in Mini)

Don't judge a bag by its wearer.

I heard these bags have been sold out everywhere and true enough, while we were scouting for it in Hong Kong, all Celine's stroes said it was sold out. It's not hard to imagine since its the latest bag that has generated this much buzz since the Mulberry Alexa and the Proenza Schouler PS1 came out.

Not many people may know this but there are actually 2 kinds of Luggage Tote's. There is the Envelope and the zipper type and i hear, the envelope is a special limited edition while the zipper type will be available in many different materials and colors. There are also 4 sizes, mini, small, medium and large. i personally think that the mini is just right because I wouldn't want the bag to overpower me. Remember, it is still the woman who makes the bag- and never ever the other way around!

Celine Luggage Tote Zipper



Celine Luggage Tote Envelope





I still prefer the zipper for some reason.Maybe because it makes it less bulky- and I am very much anti bulk!

It is now officially a part of my must have bag list- along with the Alexa and the PS1. It doesn't seem to hurt either that its not so mainstream yet. Then again, it may only be a matter of time.

Whats on your Must Have Bag List?

Here is Mine:

1. Mulberry Alexa in Oak

2. Proenza Schouler is Smoke

3. Givenchy Nightingale in Tomato

4. Chloe Parati in Purple

5. Celine Zipper Luggage Tote in Beige

In case you haven't noticed, I'm way past the Logo overload!

XOXO,

Erika

LIVE.FASHIONABLY.

Back from Hong Kong: My MUJI Loot!

Walking through the rain in the streets of Hong Kong is no easy task especially when carrying bedsheets for a double sized bed.
Im not just talking about sheets here! I'm talking about the whole array of bed sheets, duvet cover, 4 pillow cases and 2 sets of bedroom slippers.

The only reason I decided that this task was well worth it because Muji doesn't seem to have this on-stock here in Manila and the cloth they used to make it is to die for! I've always wanted to sleep on jersey sheets!

My new jersey sheets are oh soo soft and airy! It let's my duvet cover breathe and best of all, it makes sleeping all the more enjoyable. I'm a firm believer in spending for sleeping paraphernalia since sleep is so important to me and it makes me feel good knowing I'm sleeping in beautiful surroundings. I even go to great lengths to light candles and fire up my jasmine aroma therapy jars both in the bed and in the bathroom. (Yes, trying to reconstruct hotel living in my own house) And after all, we spend almost half of our lives sleeping- without knowing it. So we might as well sleep- fashionably!

The only problem is if I got the right size. A Double here is close to a Queen, I wonder if their Full is close to a Twin. Oh well, there's no point in worrying abnout it now. We shall find out when it gets back from the cleaner. 



I'll post some pictures of how my overall bed looks like!

And here are the bedroom slippers that are comfy and best of all, washable! Got it for around HKD 99 so thats around Php 600. The only downside though is that they only come in Medium and Large so if you have big feet, the Large would probably be still too small. I, on the other hand, have small feet so the medium is a tad bit too big.

I opted for neutrals since its more light and easy on the eyes. I also find it too stressful to sleep on busy sheets. I have another bed set in black and white and another in pure white just so I can interchange my sheets. I change mine every 2 or 3 weeks because I always want it clean and fresh!

P.S. I would have bought the hamper too if only I had more than 2 hands, (which I don't). It was quite pricey anyway at HKD 235 or Php 1,450 for a plain foldable canvas hamper. Maybe I just liked the luxury of knowing we can't have it here in the Philippines?

How do you sleep and what kind of sheets do you sleep on?

XOXO,

Erika

LIVE. FASHIONABLY.

Marga's February Wish List

As for now, these are some of the things MY dreams are made of..

1. an I Love You

Need I say more? Rolex says I Love You. This limited edition I Love You Rolex Explorer just came out in time for Valentine's Day and retails at roughly 600,000Php. Is it love? I has to be.

Thanks Fashion Foie Gras for the photo 

2. Just a tote!

Any of these Chanel totes would do. I am not really a big fan of the 2.55 but I wouldn't mind carrying these babies around.

Spotted!

I have developed a certain penchant for polka dots and it was not until recently that I realized this. 

           As always, it started from one dress and a top and now it feels like I have a small collection growing. The sheer long sleeved top (in photo) and the mini polka dots Sunday dress are my favorites. The red dress was worn during the new year's celebration for double the luck! I cannot exactly explain it but there's this giddy feeling I get whenever I see these prints on the rack. It could be that same feeling when I was younger and anything pink just excites me. For some reason I just get drawn to them and feel like I have to have them. It actually sounds silly but wearing these prints simply makes me feel glad. I believe its still a long haul before I need an intervention but of course I would love to have more Polka (dots)!

What's your feel-good-print?

XOXO,

Marga

LIVE. FASHIONABLY.

P.S.

I think Marga is right on the "dot" with this trend especially after Miu Miu came out with a predominantly "spotted" line for their 2011 Resort.

XOXO,

Erika

Fashion Blogger Awards from Blog Lovin'

Who is YOUR top pick?

1) chisteric.blogspot.com

2) theblondesalad.com

Check out who else made the cut!

The Law of Attraction- So Very Scientific

It’s not really what you say...

Psychologists have shown it takes between 90 seconds and 4 minutes to decide if you fancy someone.

Research has shown this has little to do with what is said, rather

• 55% is through body language
• 38% is the tone and speed of their voice
• Only 7% is through what they say 
  

What Makes You Fancy Someone?

Appearance could be another indicator of the quality of a person's genes. Research suggests that there are certain things we all look for - even if we don't know it.

Perfect Symmetry



It is thought that asymmetrical features are a sign of underlying genetic problems. Numerous studies in humans have shown that men in particular go for women with symmetrical faces. (This only solidifies the fact that men can be very very superficial)

The preference in women for symmetry is not quite so pronounced. Women are also looking for a man's ability to offer food and protection. This might not be indicated in their genes, but in their rank and status, for example. (Amen!)

Dare to Wear Print (Shoes Special)

The current obsession on prints lives on. I am on an official search for the prettiest printed platforms and flats. Loving those florals and animal prints especially the F21 platforms in the middle.

Are these too much to ask?

XOXO,

Erika and Marga

LIVE. FASHIONABLY.

P.S.

Forever 21 will open a SM Makati branch soon!! WE.CAN'T.WAIT.

Set made from Polyvore

The Boy is Mine

We have talked so much about girls I think it's time we make a sound off to the boys!

Marga and I have always talked about the kind of men we envision for ourselves and since we do not want to delve into the personal side of things, here is a "Peg" of our dream boy instead.


Having "pegs" - or inspiration looks for boys make it seem like they are some sort of fashion accessory... aren't they? Haha. We kid.

What your Valentine's Day needs

That head over heels feeling. The scent of the flowers. A happily-ever-after kiss. Sweet nothings. Passion. Love.

Wishing everyone to be loved and genuinely give it back.

XOXO,

Erika and Marga

LIVE. FASHIONABLY.

Set made from Polyvore

War of the Fashion Books

WHO WHAT WEAR vs. The ELLEments of Personal Style

Just which has produced the better Fashion Book?

Here's a review to check out and help you decide which one is worth buying.

NAIL IT! (Maybe Not Quite Literally)

We have always loved nail polish because it could easily make someone's day. We feel like there is this certain rush every time you approach the nail polish counter to pick a nail color that best reflects your mood. Once they are applied on your nails, not only are your hands and feet well-groomed they also serve as instant accessories. Hence, we want to make sure you pick the best color for the right mood, event, and season. 

On choosing trendier and on-season hues, it seems practical to buy your own bottle unless its really cheap i.e. below Php100 so as to save you a trip to the nail spa. Otherwise, if it's a standard or a safe color that you could really rely on, go for a bottle of Orly. The brand really offers a wide range of colors that are of quality too. They come up with new collections that are seasonal and shades that could be any girls go-to nail polish. There seems to be no substitute for it unless you have contemplated enough on getting that Chanel bottle which easily robs you Php1500.

For 2011, Spring is in the air and here are the top picks for our nails.

Joy Luck Club for the Joys of My Life

So the search for the best V-DAY gift for the Family is over.
I finally found something both different and very VERY affordable!

Erika's February Wish List

And here is "The List" that will definitely get me broke very soon...

1) The Mulberry Alexa in Oak

This retails around PHP 60,000 in Hong Kong but I hear you can get it much cheaper via Net-a-Porter.com and have it sent to you through Singapore to bypass customs. hehe. (You didn't hear this from me)

I am actually torn between the Oak and the Purple one but alas, I have to be practical but still in a lavish kinda of way. I know, I know. Baad!

There's more after the jump!

Shoe Report: Spring/Summer 2011

5 Reasons to LOVE THIS SEASON'S shoes

1. Aqua, hot pink, purple, or even orange could be our own color-of-the-moment. And good news is- these can all be seen in this year’s collections. That right pop of color may just be what we need to spruce up our carried-over-from­-last-season’s wardrobe.

Balenciaga

Christian Dior

Dries Van Noten