Dress Code: The Right Gown for Your Shape and Skin Tone

Your body shape and the best gown style

When you try to find a dress based on your body shape, remember to accent your assets and soften your self-observed flaws. It will not only beautify you, you'll feel fabulous, too. Following are the various body shapes and the right style of gown for you.

~ Hourglass
You already have the curves, now you need to show them off. Seek for clingy mermaids that will enhance your sexy figure. Stay away from tiers and ruffles.

~ Voluptuous

A corseted dress with linings will redefine your shape. Try also the A-line and tea-length styles to show off your curvy ankles.

~ Apple-shaped

Go for a bateau neckline or off the shoulder styles to draw the eye across and help balance out a full bust line. A defined waistline is needed for your shape.

~ Straight-Lined

You need to add some curves! Prefer gowns with added volume on the hips and chest to help create the illusion of an hourglass figure.

~ Petite

Create an elongated look with an empire-waist style that draw the eye up. Avoid voluminous gowns that can beat your small structure.

~ Pear-shaped

An A-line gown is perfect for your pear-shaped body. Try garbs with style and textural details up top to proportion your body.

Color of gowns suited to your skin tone

Did you know that picking the right color of dress for your skin tone is as crucial as choosing the right shape? You may have fallen in love with a certain silhouette, but the wrong color can sweep you out in seconds! Read on to know the color of gown that suits your complexion.

Photo credit: 123rf.com

For Light Skinned

Light skin tones are beautiful with pastels and neutrals such as mint greens, light pinks, and buttery yellows. Avoid strong colors like orange.

For Medium Skinned

If you are medium skinned, go with muted and rich colors with gold undertones.

For Dark Skinned

Ladies with darker skin look beautiful in rich shades and bright hues. Try tangerine, cobalt, light yellow, and red.

Do you have other tips to find the best gown style for different body shapes and skin tones? Share it with us! 

Byaheng Supremo: 8 Best Places to Visit on Bonifacio Day

Planning to have a road trip on November 30? Why not visit the following prominent sights to honor the heroism of The Great Plebian?

1. Bonifacio Monument

National Artist Guillermo Tolentino designed this to honor Andres Bonifacio, the founder and Supremo of the Katipunan. The shrine is in a junction in Grace Park, Caloocan. 

Photo credit: commons.wikimedia.org

2. Bonifacio Trial House

This served as a venue for the trial of the brothers Andres and Procopio in 1897 due to felony treason.

The first floor of the Trial House unveils the pictures and text about Bonifacio and the various kinds of KKK flags. At the second floor, you will find:

ü  Photos of the supposed dug-up skulls of Andres and Procopio;

ü  Sculptures showing Bonifacio and his contemporaries in an argument;

ü  Copies of handwritten letters by Bonifacio; and

ü  Bonifacio-inspired paintings by young artists. 

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

 3. Bonifacio Shrine and Eco-tourism Park
Located at Mt. Nagpatong, Maragondong, Cavite, this is where Andres and Procopio died. The shrine accents relief sculptures made of bronze, signifying the words “KKK” and “Bayani”. The park has an ongoing clubhouse, two swimming pools, picnic ground and a vast camping space for tourists.

Photo credit: lakwatsa-atbp.blogspot.com

4. Casa Hacienda De Naic (now Naic Elementary School)
This house was witness to two events related to Bonifacio:
1.   Creation of “Naic Military Agreement” led by Bonifacio; and
2.   Arrest of Bonifacio and his brother Procopio. 

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

5. Katipunan  Museum

Katipunan Museum is the sole gallery built to display the contributions of KKK.

Photo credit: mymomfriday.com

6. Pamitinan Caves
Pamitinan Caves, found at Rodriguez, Rizal, is where the secret initiation rites of the Katipunan was held and where the members carved “Viva la Independencia!” on the walls. 

Photo credit: manilarules.com

7. Pinagbarilan Shrine

This memorial is at Limbon, Indang, Cavite. Here, Agapito Bonzon shot Bonifacio using a revolver while Ignacio Pawa stabbed the Supremo on the right side of the neck. 

Photo credit: baktincorporation.com

8. Pinaglabanan Shrine

This shrine, set near the San Juan City Hall, evokes the dawn of August 30, 1896. It was when Spanish soldiers crushed Bonifacio and his army of poorly armed Katipuneros after attacking the powder depot in San Juan. 

Photo credit: crispypataatkarekare.com

Do you know other places linked to Bonifacio’s valor? Please share in the comments section!

10 Awesome Foods that Help Cleanse and Detoxify Your Body

Ward off the harmful toxins and enjoy the long-lasting benefits of a healthy and clean body from within with the help of these cleansing and detoxifying foods.

1. Yogurt – the ones that contain probiotics supply healthy bacteria that fortify the GI tract’s natural flora, helping digestion and boosting the body’s natural immune responses.

2. Onion and Garlic – they contain powerful antibacterial and immune-boosting properties like flavonoids that stimulate the production of glutathione, one of the liver’s strongest antioxidants.

3. Green Tea – is rich in antioxidants and caffeine that gives diuretic effect. This helps alleviate bloating by counteracting water retention.

4. Broccoli – works with the enzymes in your liver and turns the toxins into something your body can remove easily. They contain sulforaphane that helps prevent cancer, diabetes, osteoporosis, and allergies.

5. Apples – are high in pectin, a fiber that binds to cholesterol and heavy metals in the body. They help remove toxic build up and the clean the intestines.

6. Cabbage – contains sulfur that is vital in breaking down chemicals and removing them from your body. It also contains indole-3-carbinol, a chemical that boosts DNA repair in cells and appears to block the growth of cancer cells.

7. Flaxseeds – are loaded with essential fatty acids like Omega-3s and ensure that toxins are removed properly. It contains fiber that helps to bind and flush toxins from the intestinal tract.

8.  Grapefruit – is a great intestinal and liver detoxifier. It contains pectin fiber that binds to cholesterol and heavy metals and helps escort them out of the body.

9. Almonds – are the best source of Vitamin E in nuts. They are also high in calcium, fiber, magnesium, and usable protein that helps stabilize blood sugar and remove impurities from the bowels.

10. Basil – is great for digestion and detoxification. Aside from antioxidants, it also contains anti-bacterial, anti-ulcer, and antimicrobial properties.

Aside from cleaning and detoxifying your body, these foods also help you shed unwanted body fats the natural way. Have you tried any of these foods? Are they helpful? Share your experiences and help us inspire other people towards a healthy lifestyle.

Seven Super Tips to Beat Homesickness

Are you away at school, moved to a new place, working abroad, or on a trip right now? Then you’re familiar with that emotional rollercoaster called homesickness. Signs of it may vary from one person to another, but usually, nostalgia makes you feel lonely, isolated, and distressed. It disturbs people of all ages in any condition, so don’t be ashamed if you're experiencing it right now.

Following are helpful tips to help you get through homesickness:

1. Understand that homesickness is common. The most important step to overcome it is seeing that nothing is wrong with you. Accepting your homesickness is a way of learning how to live a new life. Once you know you’re homesick, you can start working to get over it.

2. Carry something from home. Homesickness can be tough because you never know when it might hit you. To cool yourself in those moments, bring a bit of home with you, like your favorite pillow, book, pair of slippers, or a picture.

3. Stay connected. Keeping attached can lessen feelings of isolation. Plus, speaking with family and friends will update you about what’s going on at home. In this way, you won’t feel as though life there has moved on without you.

4. Talk about your feelings with someone. Find a trusted person and talk about what you’re feeling. It can help you deal with your nostalgia. Not acknowledging your emotional state can make them worse.

5. Explore your new location. Activate your mind and focused on your new surroundings to turn your attention away from home.

6. Make new friends. Making friends in your new town is a great way to get involved in the local culture and can make you feel less alone.

7. Keep a positive attitude. Believe me, it will get better. Don’t let your homesickness devour you! Moving away from home, starting a new life and adjusting to new environment isn’t easy, but it gets easier! You’ve beaten tough tasks before and staying away from home is not different. Push negative thoughts aside and keep going.

Do you know other tips to battle homesickness? Please share your thoughts!

Photo credit: wikihow.com

10 Cool Souvenir and Gift Ideas for Any Occasion

Are you looking for cool and unique gifts and souvenirs? Here are some ideas that will fit any of your occasions.

1. Character Charm Key Ring – Silver-plated key ring features a twist open clasp. Add up to 6 cute boy or girl charms each engraved with any single initial.

Source: www.personalcreations.com

2. Face Mugs – These classically hued mugs keep the snacks separate until you're ready to dunk or dip. They are perfect for serving your favorite snack-time combinations.

Source: www.uncommongoods.com

3. Fixie Pizza Cutter – Bring your slice servings to the next gear with this two-wheeled pizza slicer, designed to look like your beloved fixie.

Source: www.uncommongoods.com

4. Pocket Knife – This sturdy pocket knife features a contoured handle with a belt clip, a 3 1/2” stainless steel blade, and a laser engraved wood accent handle with up to three initials.

Source: www.gifts.com

5. All About Her Mouse Pad - Add personality to her workspace while letting everyone know she’s all that‚ and more! It makes a great gift for a co-worker or employee.

Source: www.gifts.com

6. Custom Candies – A range of over 40 designs and flavors of bite-sized rock candies. It’s a perfect for people of all ages.

Source: www.cellinereyes.com

7. Kris Nations Birthstone Necklace - Handcrafted in California by artisans Kim and Kris Nations, these stylish birthstone necklaces feature recycled 14K gold & recycled sterling silver, along with natural and color enhanced gemstones.

Source: www.krisnations.com

8. Camera Lens Mug - The mug works just like any other mug, but shaped like an authentic camera lens. Fool friends and family into thinking you are actually drinking out of a camera lens! The mug is suitable for both hot and cold beverages.

Source: www.thinkgeek.com

9. Personalized Wooden Key Ring – These custom wooden key rings will make your gifts extra special to your guests. It will make the best and the cheapest giveaway for any occasion.

Source: www.smgiftshop.com

10. Cupcakes in a Jar – Give your guests a sweet treat with these delectable cupcakes in a jar. It’s the perfect gift for any sweets monster.

Source: www.marrythis.com

Do you have other cool souvenir and gift ideas for any occasion? Let’s help the celebrants and share your ideas below.

10-Point Checklist: Top Concerns During Apartment Hunting

Are you looking for an apartment? Check out this list of factors you should consider so you’ll end up satisfied in your new home.

1) Affordability

Do a little math and estimate how much you can pay for a rent given your income and expenses. Most experts recommend spending only 25-30% of your salary on housing.

2) Atmosphere

Make sure the surrounding is a good fit for your personality and your work habits.

3) Cost of living

Cost of living differs from place to place, and it’s something to keep in mind when moving to a new area. Use a cost-of-living calculator to figure out how far your wage will take you in a specific area.

4) Location

You will live in this new flat for a while, so study the place. Will you have an easy access to a highway? Is it close to work and grocery store? How about the neighborhood, is it safe? 

5) Parking

Ask if parking is included. How much for a parking spot? How many cars are allowed per apartment? Is there an added fee for extra cars?

6) Pet Policies

Even if you don’t have a pet, it’s better to be familiar with the rule. You know, just in case your neighbor leaves his door open and his pet lion escapes.

7) Safety

Though location is the key factor for safety, you should consider other things. Are padlocks available? Is there a history of vandalism, theft, or other crimes? Does each room have at least two exits in case of fire?

8) Size

Decide what size of apartment and room you want. Is the bathroom too small? Is there enough room for a dining table?

9) Smoking rules

Most landlords prohibit smoking in their properties. Whether you’re a smoker or not, find out the rules. You should ask, because other people in your building may be smokers, and you might deal with their smoke and cigar tails.

10) The landlord

 While exploring the apartment, get a feel for whether the landlord is honest and reliable. If the place is wonderful and has low rent, but the landlord is annoying, think again.

Do you know other tips during apartment hunting? Please share it in the comments section.

Photo credit: chiangmaibuddy.com

10 Do-It-Yourself Christmas Decors for Your Home or Office

Do you want to revamp your home this Christmas but too lazy to go shopping or worried about your budget? Here are 10 DIY decors that’s easy to make and friendly to your pocket.

1. Repurposed Pumpkins – Halloween’s over but don’t your pumpkins yet. Paint them white and voila, a snowman at your doorstep.

Photo Credit: www.nolagirlatheart.wordpress.com

2. Faux Fireplace – If you don’t have fireplace, then make one! With just cardboards, brown paper, sponge, and acrylic paint, you can make a faux fireplace where you can place your stockings.

Photo Credit: www.somewhatsimple.com

3. Tomato Cage Christmas Tree Lights – Lighten up your garden using only upside down tomato cages and a string of LED lights. You can use white or colorful lights depending on your theme.

Photo Credit: www.17apart.com

4. Stained Glass Ornaments – Are you tired of the same ornaments from the department store? Be unique and turn your boring ornaments into colorful stained glass art using only glue and food coloring.

Photo Credit: www.brit.co

5. Glue Gun Snowflakes – Perk up your windows with these cool glue gun snowflakes. Simply create snowflakes in a parchment paper. Once they are dry, peel them off, and just add a slight dab of hot glue when placing them on your windows.

Photo Credit: www.welivedhappilyeverafter.com

6. Wine Glass Snow Globes – These cheap snow globes would be a perfect addition to your white Christmas theme. Rather than the fragile glass snow globes, you can save and spend more on the decors inside the globe when you use plastic wine glasses.

Photo Credit: blog.consumercrafts.com

7. Ornament Tree – Do you have too many ornaments but no Christmas tree? Make one using those ornaments! Creative, less work, and less space needed!

Photo Credit: www.mommyiscoocoo.com

8. Pine Cone Tree – Create cute miniature Christmas trees using pinecones. You can use them as centerpiece or as a minimalist décor around your home.

Photo Credit: www.amazinginteriordesign.com

9. Ornament Wreath – Repurpose some of your old Christmas balls and turn them into a modern and colorful wreath. Just glue them together forming a circle and tie a ribbon at the top to hang.

Photo Credit: www.popsugar.com

10. Cardboard Tube Snowmen – Create a mini Christmas village using cardboard or tissue tubes. Just use various colors to make each one unique.

Photo Credit: www.craftsbyamanda.com

Do you have more do-it-yourself Christmas décor ideas on your sleeve? You can share them on the comments section below.