Gala Premiere: Philippine Fashion's Biggest Night

Canada Philippine Fashion Week ended on a high note on Friday evening with a glam gala held at the Roy Thomson Hall. It was a dazzling spectacle that highlighted the very best of conceptual fashion and haute couture infused with Filipino culture. Top Filipino designers from Canada and the Philippines such as Francis Libiran, John Ablaza, and Noel Crisostomo showcased their fabulous masterpieces. From ethereal gowns, sleek and polished pieces, architectural designs, and even whimsical costumes, the colorful stage set the perfect backdrop for these rich and beautiful creations. 

I was excited to have backstage access where I was able to get an intimate glimpse at the clothing. The detailing and craftsmanship were immaculate and even more stunning up close. I couldn't stop ogling over everything -- the gorgeous beading, jewelled embellishments, whispery layers and woven embroidery were truly works of art. I loved that the back detailing on the clothing was just as incredible and intricate as the front.

I was lucky enough to have attended these events as part of the world's first Canada Philippine Fashion Week. It was a definite success and although I didn't know anything about Filipino fashion before, it has undoubtedly opened my eyes to this thriving cultural world and left me feeling inspired.

Canada Philippine Fashion Week - Vinta Collection

The world’s first Canada Philippine Fashion Week kicked off Monday evening with a lavish cocktail party at Lexus Downtown. Celebrating the best of fashion, style and culture of the Philippines, Canada Philippine Fashion Week provides a unique experience into the innovative and creative designs of Filipino fashion.

The opening party featured the debut of Vinta, a Filipino clothing line founded by Caroline Mangosing. Designed in Toronto and manufactured in the Philippines, the collection offers chic, well-crafted Fillipino cultural clothing with a modern twist.

I was curious and excited to see what Filipino fashion was all about and how Vinta would reinvent traditional Filipino clothing to a more contemporary look. The terno dress (a butterfly sleeved dress) was updated with exaggerated butterfly-winged sleeves and featured two versions: a sheath silhouette and an A-line cut with an empire waist. I couldn't take my eyes off the extravagantly oversized, statement necklaces that made a fun, colorful pop. It was a definite show-stopper.

The males were a little less eccentric but nonetheless stylish in their barong (a sheer, embroidered formal shirt) made modern with a slim cut. The women’s version of the barong, the Tibo, was modeled as a lovely tunic dress with an elongated hi-low hemline.

I love the detailing of the collection -- the textured pattern on the butterfly sleeves and the embroidered embellishment on the barong are intricate and exquisite. Overall, this traditional-meets-contemporary line was fresh, stylish and beautifully designed, with a Filipino flair. I can’t wait to see what else is in stores for Canada Philippine Fashion Week and the world of Philippine couture.

Color of the Year: Emerald

According to Pantone, the color for this year is emerald green –- a rich, jewel tone color. Make a statement in 2013 by incorporating this lush, elegant hue into your life, whether it’s in your wardrobe and accessories, or as accent pieces in your home. Emerald is supposed to enhance our sense of well-being, balance and harmony. Here are some of my favourite emerald-inspired pieces.

1. Equipment Emerald Signature Blouse 2. Sergio Rossi Emerald Green Leather Clutch 3. Kenneth Jay Lane Circular Bib Necklace 4. Michael Kors Emerald Belted Sheath Dress 5. Emerald Green Fused Decorative Glass Sea Coral Bowl 6. Sephora + Pantone Emerald Color Charged Graphic Lacquer 7. Kate Spade Licorice Pump Emerald Snake 8. Hand Painted Glass Candle Holder 9. Alcozer & J Brass and Emerald Frog Ring 10. Joseph Emerald Cotton Blazer

Chocolate Lava Cake

The first time I had this chocolate lava cake, I devoured it in about 5 seconds. Then died. The boyfriend made it for me last Valentine's Day and I was instantly transported to a place of pure, chocolate bliss. It's rich, insanely delectable and literally melts in your mouth. And surprisingly, it's actually quite simple and quick to whip up. Top it with some fresh fruit and you have an elegant little dessert that is sure to win anyone over. I can't think of a better way to end a romantic meal than with this.

Origami Lucky Stars

I made these little origami stars for the boyfriend for our anniversary recently. I’m not a crafter so the process was a bit time-consuming, but once I got the hang of it, it was actually relatively simple and quite fun to do (after multiple redo’s and constant swearing). With Valentine's Day soon approaching, this is an adorable, inexpensive homemade gift you can make for that special someone. To make it even more sweet, I wrote a little something on the inside of each star -- every time he opens one, he's reminded of something that makes him truly amazing.

You'll Need:

- Paper (computer paper or scrapbooking paper)
- Ruler
- Scissors
- Glass jar
- Ribbon 

Instructions:

1. Take a strip of paper, 11 inches x 0.5 inches, and make a knot near the top end of the strip
2. Flatten the knot slightly
3. Flip it over and tuck the loose end into the back of the knot
4. Flip it over again and take the strip and wrap it over one side
5. Flip over and wrap the other side. Continue flipping and wrapping alternative sides until you're left with the end piece
6. Tuck the end piece into the back
7. Using your thumbs and forefingers, take four of the five edges (with one of the points at the top) and carefully push inwards so that the star inflates
8. Rotate and push the edges again. Pinch the points to ensure it stays intact  
9. Fill a glass jar with as many stars as you'd like. Decorate with a pretty ribbon and tag