The Yellow Patterned Dress: A Murder Revealed

This post is a confession.

Yes, I admit to rummaging through my mom's closet for clothes that might look good on me. And yes, sometimes I tear down a dress in several pieces in order to fit my more modern sense of style (whatever that is). I confess to being swept away by the notion of possible fame as a style-recycling diva (a label I invented during my manic moments). Here is one project I am confessing for. And with the help of my little sister (who is not so little anymore), I came up with two separate tops from a single dress. Take a look!

On the background is my mom's closet, the same one I always raid when I am tired of tearing down my own set of clothes. These pair of pants are "ukay" too, and the belt is from the SM department store (during a sale of course). You can pair this with black pumps for a night out or some flats for more comfort.

I find the sleeves of this dress really vintage-y and unique. So I decided to play with the puffs by making her wear a pair of black shorts and her black prom shoes. You can wear this with flats too.  

She does this thing with her hair, they look a bit disturbing at times. I think they make her look like she's got lice or something, she thinks its cute. You decide.

Who needs models when you can bully your little sister into doing this for free? lol

Evangelista: A Haven for the Modern Fashionista

Welcome to Evangelista, a quaint neighborhood that hardly resembles the busy streets of modern Makati. Instead of skyscrapers and men in business suits the whole area is dotted with small stores that specialize in car parts. On first glance it may look like the ultimate haven for car mechanics and automotive specialists (whatever that job means).  

Yet several corners away, Hizon street blooms with a different promise. All it took was that single turn for me to realize that I was finally home! Vintage was everywhere! I now take this space to wholeheartedly thank the thrift store owners who allowed me to take picture after picture of their excellent goodies!

This bag is a Nina Ricci creation. The ribbon detail is just charming and it sells for just 1, 200php. Not bad!

This studded sling wonder from YSL is in excellent condition and is priced reasonably as well.

Here's a unique piece from Christian Dior, a vintage party bag with lots of character!

Who doesn't love Dior? This leather bag sells for 9-7k, depending on your bargaining skills!

Jill Stuart is famous for her mini dresses and this black lace number is a heart-stopper. For just 700php.

Louis Vuitton flats in orange and pink!

I may have forgotten the brand, but this pair is a beauty!

Vintage costume jewelry makes for a great collection.

These shoes are made for walking and shopping and partying...

Some more adorable bags...

Channel the Victorian in you with cameo pendants and a set of earrings. The one inside the box is a reproduction while the one outside is an original vintage piece.

No, you can never own enough bags!

This charming vintage comb comes with a mirror, the two items sell for 2, 500. A cheap price for authenticity.

It is a sweet irony that in modern Makati, there are age-old wonders waiting to be discovered.

These timeless treasures deserve a new home!

Thrift Store Finds Along Hizon Street

I have a penchant for all things old, from vintage dresses to vintage houses. This little street at Barangay Bangkal in Evangelista Makati, is a heart-stopping prelude to the ultimate Manila thrift store experience. If I had a house of my own, I would be hording stuff from this place. I'd be driving a truck and asking people if they accepted cheques and promisory notes. 

 

Here are some amazing things to fill your empty imagination to the brim!

This set of wooden trunks cost as low as 5, 000 pesos. If you are a master bargain-maker then you can probably get it for a lot less. As to the authenticity, I wouldn't really mind if they are not at all vintage, they are simple adorable!

These candle-holders vary in price from 1, 000 to as much as 5, 000 pesos, depending on how old a piece is. Doesn't this picture vaguely remind you of Lumiere and Cogsworth? hahaha

I am no antique dealer, but I'd love to have one of these on a table top.

The owner says this authentic painting sells for 4, 500php. Ah yes! The art of vintage hunting!

If  these don't light you up, I don't know what will!

This looks like something out of that high school Ibong Adarna book.

Flowers and intricate wooden borders make for the perfect wall decor.

Relive your fairy tale fantasies, magic mirror on the wall...

Travel back in time with these thrift store bargains!