(1) Cherry Blossoms in Seoul, (2) Dolsot Bibimbap at the Airport, (3) Laduree at Shinsegae, (4) Alexander Mcqueen display, (5) Locks of Love at N Seoul Tower, (6) Hongdae Shopping, (7) Myeongdong at Night, (8) Kirakira at Hongik University, (9) Gyeongbokgung, (10) Hello Kitty Cafe, (11) Magazine Stash at home, (12) Before Getting Interviewed

It amazes me how Instagram encapsulates a person's current fascinations, obsessions and adventures. 

And if you want to catch a glimpse on my own set of fascinations and adventures, do follow me on Instagram @jessnothinless. 

Do you guys have an Instagram account too? Comment down below your username so I can drop a visit at your profile!

XX, 

Jess

Spring Season

Spring Season.
It's the season when people pull out their bright-colored tops and nail polishes. It's the season when people celebrate majestic festivals and parties. I always dreamed of living in a country with four seasons so I could attend a Spring festival like most people. However, I can't stand the thought of leaving Manila just so I can witness flowers bloom in Spring and watch snow fall in Winter. I love home way too much to trade it with the seasons of nature so here I am trying to channel the Spring Season into my outfit last Sunday. My bright-colored floral pants makes me feel the Spring vibe already! Haha
What do you guys think of floral pants? Yay or Nay?  

/ Chambray Top from Greenhills / Necklace from Baguio / Pants from Divi / Bag from Korea / Shoebox flats / 


XX,
Jess

Korea Beauty Haul

Paris has been known as the cosmetics capital of the world for the longest time now but I think South Korea is such a strong contender for the same title. The amount of stores selling cosmetics - in Myeongdong alone - is overwhelming even for a cosmetics junkie. And since our hotel was just within the area, I wouldn't pass up the chance to take home a beauty loot of my own. The popular cosmetic brands in Korea are Etude House, Missha, Nature Republic, Skin Food, Innisfree, Tony Moly, Holika Holika and Dearberry. I know there a lot of Etude House stores here in the Philippines already but I still couldn't resist to purchase a few things. Blame their cute packaging, 10% discount coupon I got in the hotel and my liking to get a lot of freebies. lol.

Missha Signature Wrinkle Filler B.B Cream SPF 37. KRW 20,860 (Php 834.40) vs. PH retail price of Php 2,100
Don't get me wrong. I don't think I have premature wrinkles but the Korean saleslady convinced me that this is the best choice because of its "long-lasting effect". Well let's see if her claim is true. The BB cream is originally priced at KRW 29,800 (Php 1,192) but they're having a spring sale so it's 30% off, making it KRW 20,860 (Php 834.40) Hooray for a sale-priced item plus 3 packs of cleansing tissue as freebies. 

1. Innisfree Green Tea Pure Cleansing Foam 150 mL. KRW 12,000 (Php 480)
Packaging says it "revives dry, stressed skin by supplying abundant moisture". I guess I need to save this for the sleepless nights.

2. Innisfree Green Tea Mineral Mist 50 mL. KRW 5,000 (Php 200)
I used to always carry around an Evian mist spray on my bag but when the time came that's already used up I felt so guilty on buying another 280-pesos spray bottle of fancy water. But when I saw the Innisfree mineral mist I convinced myself that it's a different story. It has green tea and green tea complex from Jeju island! Let's see how the complex thingy-majigs from Jeju island will make a difference. 

And in case you're wondering, I got a green tea seed cream as the freebie. I have no idea what it is but I guess it's worth a try. Hmm let's Google it then! 

1. Etude House Mini Brow Class Drawing Guide KRW 2,500 (Php 100). 

2. Etude House Precious Mineral BB Compact in Honey Beige W24. KRW 15,000 (Php 600).

3. Etude House Perfect Brow Kit. KRW 9,000 (Php 360). 

4. Etude House Drawing Show Creamy Liner in BK801. KRW 9,000 (Php 360).
Although gel liners are harder to use, I still prefer them over pencil liners. They don't smudge plus I don't have to sharpen anything. 

5. Etude House Essence Mask Collagen. Promo price of KRW 5,000 (Php 200 or Php 20/pack) 
Honestly, I have tried using facial masks but since Koreans are big fans of facial masks I thought that it's worth a try. I'll never know - the facial masks might be the reason behind their flawless skin. 

6. Etude House Dear My Blooming Lips-talk Lipstick in OR 204. KRW 8,500 

Note: Only the numbered products are my actual purchases. Yup, got so many freebies! Good thing I'm a sucker for freebies. Who isn't anyway? 

Korea Shopping Tip: If your purchase is at least KRW 30,000 worth, make sure to ask for a tax free receipt so you can ask for a tax refund at the airport. The net refund value is not that big at 5% but it's still worth saving a few bucks. 

Which one is your fave among the bunch? 
Stay tuned for the detailed beauty review for this Korea beauty haul! 

XX,
Jess

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Hongdae: An Artistic Hub

When one door closes, a window opens. 

We're suppose to go to Nami Island (also known as the Winter Sonata lane) today but plans changed due to the weather situation yesterday. My mom then suggested that we explore the place called Hongdae. It's where young college students usually hangout at night since it's located near the Hongik University. Discovering this place is actually a blessing in disguise! We were able to visit a lot of shops that are selling artsy and quirky items plus an overload of stylish and reasonably priced clothing pieces! If you're following me on Instagram (@jessnothinless), I actually described the place as  "a piece of heaven here on earth". So if you're going on a trip to Seoul, make sure you allot some time to explore Hongdae. I highly recommend this place for fashionistas and shopaholics on a budget!
I'll do a separate post about Hongdae once I get back in Manila so just stay tuned for that. 

/ Coat: Thrifted / Scarf: Regina's / Skirt: Thrifted / Boots: SM Parisian / 

XX, 

Jess

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Annyeonghaseyo!

Greetings from South Korea!
To be honest, I'm typing this words - half-asleep. My eyes are all droopy now so I just want to make this post quick! This is what I wore for out first day in Seoul. I know it looks like a bit off cause it may seem that I'm wearing winter clothes when in fact it's spring here already. (Why hello there cherry blossoms!) Well here's what I have to say. The 39 to 9 degrees Celsius drop is way too overwhelming for me. So here I was wearing the thickest jacket that I could ever find my closet. My sister and I even wanted to wear gloves!

 Pardon me on insisting to wear winter clothes? haha

/ Jacket: Topshop / Skirt: H&M / Bag: Naraya / Boots: SM Dept Store / 

XX,
Jess
P.S. I've got tons of travel diaries in store for you so keep checking back!

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Giddy Up!

Today, I turned from this...

Into this.

It's a little bit embarrassing to explain why. 
I was magically transformed into this extra happy creature (photo above) all because I was able to finish a task. It may seem like a simple task for some, but for me it's serious business. My sister and I are very OC when it comes to planning our travel itineraries. In fact, during our last trip abroad we even included the time for bathroom breaks.  Yuhuh. Since my sister has work all week, I'm left with the responsibility to finish the task. I vowed that I will print the DIY itinerary today and so I did!Yes, that pretty much explains already everything. haha!

How about you? What are the little things that make you happy and giddy?
Share your thoughts and let me know!

/ ZARA button-down polo / Bayo gold bar belt / Bangkok shorts & flats/ 

XX,
Jess

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Floral and Lace

Wore this ensemble last Saturday. 
I know, I know. Wearing a blazer during the so-called "beach weather" is probably not the best idea. Yes, I could've just worn the floral top inside the lace blazer. However, I don't wanna break the dress code in Church. Call me a strict rule follower but that's just the way I am. Won't change myself just because of some weather conditions.

What do you guys think about following the dress code in Church? When do you think it's okay to break them? Share your thoughts!

/ Top from HK / Forever21 blazer / pants from Greenhills / Bershka heels/ 

XX, 

Jess

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Pants for the Summer?

What I did today: Attended the Max Factor Beauty Event
I initially wanted to wear a pair of shorts but then I figured that it wouldn't be appropriate so I chose this brown harem-ish pants instead.
I, then, pulled out a printed sheer top and paired the entire outfit with some nude wedges. I just realized that wearing pants during the summer isn't so bad after all. You just need to find the pair with the right kind of fabric. Do you guys agree?

XX, 

Jess

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Pastel Palette

Today marks my last 'first' day in college. 
I was positive that there wouldn't be much traffic in the metro. To my surprise, it was so traffic in the Katipunan-Libis area! I ended up being awfully late for class so I had to grab a chair from the next room because the room was full and all chairs were already occupied. It was embarrassing enough that people were staring but to make matters worse, the chair was big and heavy so it kept on bumping into the other chairs thus making loud noises. Oh gosh, I learned my lesson the hard way. Never assume that there's no traffic in Manila! Do you have embarrassing entrances too?
And what do you guys think of wearing pastels in the summer? Leave a comment and let me know!

/ Top: Borrowed from my sister: Forever21 / Mint green pants from Greenhills / H&M nude wedges and earrings / 

XX,
Jess
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The Little White Dress

You have probably seen the acronym LBD a thousand times by now. 
How about the LWD? Probably, not as much.  
When it comes to dressing up for a formal event, a black dress has always been the popular choice. But if you come to think of it, black may not always work. Imagine coming to a fairytale-themed event wearing black. You may end up looking like the mean witch of oz next to all the ethereal fairies in the room. Definitely not a pretty sight. In that case, the LWD might be your lifesaver!

The Little White Dress will definitely come in handy when attending a formal event with a sunny, kiddie and cheerful theme into it. I bet no one wants to be a villain at a party.  (unless you have overwhelming gothic tendencies) So if I were you, better start looking for the perfect white dress. Just a word of caution though, bring those stain removal pens with you if you're wearing a LWD. A dreaded drink spill might occur and you don't want that to ruin your entire night! What do you guys think about Little White Dresses?

/ Little White Dress from MSDRESSY.COM / Christy Ng Heels /

XX,
Jess
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Style Guide: Coachella

Are you dreaming of attending the Coachella Music Festival too? 
I bet most people my age have the Coachella Music Festival on their bucket lists. Who wouldn't want to be part of the highly anticipated music, art and fashion event? However, I do know that most of us doesn't have the budget yet to fly all the way to California. But don't fret, you can still bring out your inner Coachella Festival attendee. Here's a style guide that includes some style tips for those fashionistas who are itching to channel the Coachella Style.

/ Dress & Necklace from Clothing Loves/

While I was searching for  Coachella style pieces, I discovered an online website named Clothing Loves. I kept on browsing through their website and decided to feature the yellow dress and the skull necklace on the Coachella Style Guide. Any thoughts about this trend?
Well as for me, I think it's best to sport the Coachella style this summer season! Don't you think so too?

Clothing Loves sells clothes and accessories for both men and women. 
(wholesale men pants, wholesale men jeans, women dress) 

XX,
Jess
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The Internship Interview

How are you guys spending your summer break? 

Most teenagers or twenty somethings are spotted in beaches or resorts creating their own YOLO moments but here I am stuck at the comforts of my own home. Instead of sulking around thinking of reasons why I'm not part of the so-called YOLO crowd, I just decided to be productive and applied for an internship. I won't say which company yet. I might jinx it! So consider my lips sealed for the moment. 

After a day or two of passing my application, I received a text from the company asking if I could come for an interview. I couldn't have been more excited! However, I'm not really sure what got into me cause I ended up not preparing my internship interview outfit which then resulted to today's underdressed interviewee award. I knew I don't want to look like a desperate fashion victim but I don't wanna look boring either! I should have infused some color into my outfit at the very least. But it's too late for regrets. It's not like I can magically tie-dye my pants while waiting for my turn and say... "oooh I'm into this whole ombre tie dye thing right now". Sigh. I sure did learn my lesson. 

Better come prepared! Overdressed is much better than underdressed! 

What about you? What are your job/internship interview lessons? 

XX, 

Jess
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/ ZARA top / People are People pants / Wedges from Bangkok / 

P.S. I'm applying for an internship at a fashion company so yes, I should have been overly conscious about my outfit. Or maybe I'm just being overly paranoid? What are your thoughts? Let me know! 

Beat the Heat

Is it just me or the heat in Manila is really getting more and more unbearable? 
Consequently, people on twitter are getting more and more creative on their weather rants. They're saying that walking on the streets with just one's underwear should be legalized. Although I beg to differ on that, I would love if all the whistling boys will forever be eliminated so ladies can freely wear shorts and sleeveless tops without having the fear of being whistled on. 

As for my own summer outfit, this is what I'll be wearing on my friend's grad party this afternoon. I want to make sure that I'll be wearing something that is weather-friendly but still decent. I don't wanna walk around at the place looking like I just came from the beach. 

How about you guys, how does your summer outfit look like? Can you feel the crazy heat too? 

/ Cinderella dress but worn as top / Necklace from Bangkok / Bershka skirt / H&M heels / 

XX, 

Jess

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Vintage Postcard

 I can't help but notice how vintage looking this photo turned out to be. 
It's like I have this retro thing going on. Speaking of retro, is the style having its comeback?
I'm seeing a lot of mod dresses, polka dotted skirts and even oversized round sunglasses back in stores. If my instincts are true, well I think it's something to be glad about! Hmm. I wonder how a mod dress will look on me? I guess there's only one way to find out! hihi I'm already excited for the mod dress hunt. Oh no! I shouldn't get too excited or else my wallet will hate me for it and worse, I may end up killing Mr. Piggy Bank.

/ Topshop muscle tee / Necklace from Baguio / Pants borrowed from my sister / Zara heels /

XX, 

Jess

Mixing Textures

| Top: Seventeen | Skirt: ZARA | Necklace: Baguio Market | Flats: Janilyn |

Do you remember your art classes in grade school? I sure do!
You know why? Cause I sucked at it. I remember barely getting a line of eighty on my plates. That's why I never considered myself artistic or creative during my entire grade school life. I didn't know that becoming an artist is way more than being good at sketching or painting. I later found out that you can be an artist in countless ways. We just have to choose the canvas through which we can work our magic. And maybe, I have realized that dressing up is not just a measly task but it really is a form of art. Don't you think so too? Since we're on that artsy fartsy page already-- for this certain outfit A.K.A artwork of mine, I have chosen to mix textures.
I paired the silk textured top with the sequins textured skirt then topped it off with a bead textured necklace.

Well how's that for being a mixed media artist?
Wooza.

XX, 

Jess

Baguio Photo Diary

Our first stop was the BenCab Museum. 

You'll see here the art collection of our National Artist, Benedicto Cabrera. (museum directions below) 

Entrance fee is just Php 100 for regular visitors and Php 80 for students and senior citizens with valid ID. 

Get to know the artist's muse named Sabel. Who is she and what's her story? Well, there's only one way to find out. 

Little tip: If you're visiting the museum with a kid, be prepare for the "how come?", tons of "why not?" and probably a little wailing here and there. The museum has certain galleries that are NOT meant for kids. You do get what I mean, right? So parents, prepare your explanations. Be creative! haha

When you're done with the art tour, the guide will lead you to this amazing picturesque Cafe Sabel.  I personally tried the Strawberry shake and kamote fries. What could I say? I loved both! The shake is, of course, made from real strawberries while the kamote fries has this garlic parmesan tasting dip. I don't really know what the dip is called but it reminds of the garlic parmesan dip they serve at NYFD. 

Before leaving the museum, you'll notice the souvenir shop. My sister and I spotted this rock bag and we instantly want to take it home! However, the price is quite steep at Php 1,750. 

The next day I went strawberry picking with my cousins! You have to drive all the way to La Trinidad, Benguet to get to the strawberry farm. A bit far but if you're really game for a "pick the freshest/largest strawberry" contest then it's gonna be worth it. They normally sell the strawberries during the peak season at Php 180/kilo but if you do the picking or plucking yourself, you have to pay more! Yes you have to pay them Php 400/kilo for getting the chance of being a strawberry farmer for a day. 

Across the farm, you'll see tons of tiny shops selling all sorts of things from the famous Sundot Kulangot (which you clearly know by now that is has nothing to do with booger) to the cutesy and not so cutesy souvenir keychains and puppets. 

My short out of town trip is definitely something that I'm truly thankful for. After the semester ended, my eyes were already complaining for being overexposed to laptops and cellphones. It's always nice to see real trees, flowers and other natural thingamajigs once in awhile. It makes you feel that there are still two dimensions in this world: digital and real. One can't live a life just typing, blogging or worse, cyber stalking someone in the digital world. One has to go out there to see the trees, smell the roses and while you're at it - take touristy shots! C'mon you have to agree on the touristy shots! Everyone loves touristy shots. I mean why wouldn't you? Hello! Instagram-ing yourself with a breath taking view is the bee's knees nowadays! 

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Ben Cab Museum

Km. 6 Asin Road, Tadiangan, Tuba, Benguet, Philippines

Tel no. (074) 442 7165

www.BenCabMuseum.org

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

XX, 

Jess

Scarves and Jackets?

It’s ironic how it’s the summer season but I catch myself packing for scarves and jackets. 
Living in the tropical country I’m so used to seeing people wearing short shorts and tank tops but still complaining how Manila is a one big brick oven! Good thing there’s a place called Baguio. A place where we could escape from the scorching heat and just allow our winter season clothing pieces get their own minutes of fame. Yes, that explains why I’m packing scarves and jackets! My family and I are spending the Holy Week in Baguio. It’s a looooong 6-hour drive but as early as now, I could say that it’s worth the drive. (Not that I’m the one driving –OH HELL NO– but  you do get the point, right?) 

| Blazer: Bazaar | Pants & Bag: Bershka | Necklace: The Bling Project | Flats: SM Parisian |
How're you guys spending your Holy Week? 

XX, 

Jess