Blackstar

No, this isn't about the 80s cartoon featuring John Blackstar. But make no mistake, that was one of my favourite childhood programs.

This is about another favourite - black outfits!

Just like this one. 

It's a outfit that's culled from different countries. The very classic, black, boatneck sleeveless top is from Bocu, a local clothing brand. The skirt was from Luck Rack in Tokyo, and was one of the best finds during that trip. And the shoes were from SG, Pull & Bear, if I'm not mistaken.

This is the perfect example of black that isn't boring. The sheer details on the skirt and the silver stud on the shoes elevate the black into something elevated.

It's an outfit that has star quality.

Overall Mood

For a lot of people, wearing and pulling off a jumpsuit or an overall is a challenge.

Luckily, it isn’t for my sister. Thus, every time there’s a nice jumpsuit or overall on sale, it’s easy to grab it.

Just like this one from Pull and Bear.

The material is like denim, albeit lighter, the pants are cargo pants, which Ate is a fan of. And the top has an interesting overlap design, and the sleeves are slightly extended. 

Overall, it’s a modern - and affordable - take on the jumpsuit.

Color Story: Neutrality

This story started with this pair of neutral coloured pants from Zara.

It was a duo-tone pair, with the majority it being camel and some details in khaki. The waist band was particularly interesting because of the asymmetric detail.

Then, this pair of dove gray sandals from Pull & Bear caught my eye. In my mind, it would be a great pair for the pants.

To complete the look, the top had to be as carefree and neutral as the rest of the ensemble. Enter this loose, cropped white polo from Surplus Shop.

I can't be neutral about this. Neutral ensembles can be so chic!

Oh, Chute! Part 2

Whilst ‘i’m thrilled at my Zara web find, the sale items From the other Inditex brands here in MNL were equally thrilling.

Especially these parachute skirt from Bershka!

Ate Bullet is into utilitarian fashion, and this fits the bill. With its parachute material, balloon silhouette and gathered waist and hem, it’s so unique!

After Bershka, it was off to Pull and bear where these Velcro and rubber sandals were also on sale!

The style, material and color were equally utilitarian, which made it a perfect pair for the skirt.

To tie the look together, it’s good to keep it simple with a black, ribbed knit top from Penshoppe.

This is a chute ensemble that’s shoot worthy.

Singing the blues

From reds to blues.

This is what all these sales can do.

Yup, it's a stash of blue jeans - in different washes and colors. Each one has an interesting detail - pearls, pleats, distressed edges, asymmetrical buttons - you name it, it's there.

Best part is, they're all on sale. Some pairs I got as low as P300!

See. The blues can make you happy, too.

Pull of it!

Everyone's heavily anticipating the arrival of H&M in the Philippines this fall. In fact, they're anticipating it so much that they didn't notice another famous fast fashion brand that's opening in Manila.

That is Pull & Bear, of course.

I first encountered Pull & Bear when I was in my exchange program in Mexico. According to my then "anfitrion," it was a brand that caters to fashionistas who are in their teens to early 20s. Later on, I found out that it's owned by Inditex, and is their youth brand.

The first time I stepped into a Pull & Bear store, I liked their selection instantly. They have modern cut jeans in classic washes, nice shirts, and a lot of clever graphic tees. In fact, I remember blowing around US$200 in one visit, and I spent it all on shirts!

For the longest time, I had to go to SG to get my Pull & Bear fix. But now that they're opening in Manila, I'll just be pulled into Megamall the next time around.