The Girl Behind the Pen

By invite-only events, over-the-top influencer trips, and exclusive gifts —  these are just some of the most coveted perks from the global fashion brand, Revolve, any fashion blogger or influencer dreams of experiencing. While in its early stages, most of the selected Revolve Brand Ambassadors were only those who have millions or hundreds of thousands of followers. But now, they are opening their doors to micro-influencers through the Revolve Brand Ambassador Program!

What is Revolve Brand Ambassador Program?

The Revolve Brand Ambassador Program lets micro-influencers and even general users become ambassadors for the brand. Through this initiative, Revolve works with the ambassadors on marketing campaigns. 

What are the benefits of Revolve Brand Ambassadors?

The Revolve Brand Ambassadors will get rewarded as they promote and engage with their favorite brands and products. If you are selected, you will get commissions and exclusive incentives including early access to new brands, participation in #REVOLVEAroundtheWorld trips, and access to events including REVOLVE Festival.

Now if you maximize your power of influence and become one of the top sellers, you will get an opportunity to create an X REVOLVE capsule collection like Aimee Song's Song of Style Collection and Camila Coehlo collaborations.

And the most asked question is: how to get a seat in the club?

From qualifications to the step-by-step process of applying for the Revolve Brand Ambassador Program, I'll tell you everything here so read on.

How it works

Who can join the Revolve Brand Ambassador Program?

Initial qualifications have been established to create an open framework with a balanced and diverse approach for members of our community.

Evaluation considerations include, but are not limited to:

• Platform diversity (e.g. Instagram, YouTube, Tik Tok, Personal Blog)
• High-quality visual approach to content
• History of engagement with followers
• Audience

A dedicated in-house team, under REVOLVE’s Brand Marketing division, will lead the vetting process.

Revolve Brand Ambassador Incentives

Additional incentives will be offered as part of REVOLVE’s commitment to creating a rewarding and engaging experience for its customers. These include, but are not limited to:

• Opportunity to collaborate with REVOLVE to curate your very own X REVOLVE capsule collection. 
• Participation in one of REVOLVE’s well-known experiential marketing events
• Participation in exclusive Brand Ambassador events
• Clothing credits & exclusive product giveaways

What I got as a Revolve Brand Ambassador

I've been a long-time fan of Revolve and believe it or not when I saw my name with "Revolve Brand Ambassador Program" in my inbox, I couldn't help but be excited and worried at the same time. It feels so surreal that I got so worried that it might be a scam that will trap me from clicking the links. To verify if it's legit, I had to check all the links and background check the person who emailed me. That's how paranoid I was at that time. When I was able to confirm everything, I was over the moon! As a Revolve Brand Ambassador, I got so many drool-worthy clothes to add to my wardrobe. 

I can't wait to wear everything! I'll make sure to share my whole Revolve Brand Ambassador Program experience in my future posts along with these clothes when worn.

If you think you have what it takes to be a Revolve Brand Ambassador, apply now, and let's be part of the club together!

There are many achievements that a person can attain in life may it be big or small wins. Buying a house and lot is one. While it's exciting to dream and realize you're closer to reaching it, home buying process is not always a walk in the park. 

Truth is, purchasing your dream home is more than just browsing house models, making payments, and signing contracts. There are a lot to consider before getting a house and if you're a first-time buyer, you must be extra careful and well-researched to avoid roadblocks along the process. To make it easier for you, I've rounded up the five most important things to consider before you buy your first home:

1. Your long-term plans 

Before you decide to buy what you think could be your dream house, think about your long-term plans. Are you planning on getting married? Having kids? Staying at your current job? Or resigning from your work months from now? These factors will help you decide which type of house you must purchase. Even if you have the means, don't get too carried away without thinking this through. After all, buying a house and lot will be one of your biggest life commitments you'll have to make. 

Read also: It's never too late to invest in your dream house

2. Location

One of the most crucial aspects of getting your first (or even nth) house and lot in the Philippines is considering the location of the property. If you're single and currently living far from your office, you might want to consider buying a home near your workplace. Having home security is also helpful if you're living alone. If you have kids or planning to have one in the future, consider the property's vicinity to schools and universities. These days, more and more real estate developers are building subdivisions in the Philippines near schools, hospitals, markets, malls, etc. so that it will be accessible for homeowners to reach their destinations.

3. Local market indicators

Here's an unfortunate reality — there are things we cannot control and the only thing we can do is go with the flow. One example is the market condition. When buying a house in the Philippines or anywhere, it is important to consider the local market condition because supply and demand dictate real estate property prices. When the demand for house and lots is high but supply is low, you'll have to compete with lots of buyers and prices often go up. But when it's the other way around, it is the sellers who will compete and sometimes offer lower prices. And when the state of the market is worst, buying a property could not even be a practical option.

4. Budget

The most crucial factor you would have to consider when buying a home is your budget. Buy the house that you can afford, not just now, but also in the future. So that, when the economy goes down, or another pandemic hit, you could still pay your monthly mortgage even with less income in pocket.

5. Developer & Realtor

A house and lot is a long-term (or even lifetime) investment so it's important to work with trusted realtors and developers. There are so many real estate developers in the market now, and your job is to identify which one of them offers value-for-money homes. Whether you're looking for a Winston Salem realtor or agents from across the world, it's important that you do your due diligence.

Lumina Homes is one of the most popular and trusted real estate companies in the Philippines because of its topnotch services and affordable properties. This is perfect whether you're buying a home for yourself or for your family. 

Not only do they offer quality affordable house and lots in the Philippines but they also take into consideration the communities of the homeowners. To carry out this commitment, Lumina Homes launched eSpacio, a space where the community can connect and bond together over a cup of coffee, or just a simple walk in the area. eSpacio features several stores for homeowners' needs such as drugstores, water stations, restaurants, coffee shops, and more. 

Lumina Homes Affordable House and Lots

• Anna Rowhouse (24 sqm house on 36 sqm lot with provision for 1 bedroom)
• Angelique Townhouse (35 sqm house on 36 sqm lot with provision for 2 bedrooms and carport)
• Angeli Duplex (42 sqm house on 54 sqm lot with provision for 3 bedrooms and carport)
• Athena Single Firewall (53 sqm house on 63 sqm lot, with provision for 3 bedrooms, family area, and carport)

Lumina Homes is available in more than 50 locations across the Philippines. Check them out on Facebook and their website lumina.com.ph

Just three months young, Japonesa in Poblacion, Makati is already making the buzz across the metro for good (and sumptuous) reasons. This Japanese-Peruvian restaurant is Notorious Concepts' newest child—the same group behind Alamat and West 32 located in the same neighborhood.

While Japonesa was launched last April, it already gained a sweet spot on every foodie and influencer's dining radar. Because of its popularity and multiple requests to cater to daytime market, Japonesa has finally opened its doors for lunch-lovers. They are now open everyday starting 11am.

To be really honest with you, I am not always a fan of Japanese cuisine when it comes to sashimi, sushi, maki, and anything that comes with raw fish or meat—but, I loved it there. I'll tell you why.

From maki to yakitori skewers, Japonesa surprised me in so many ways. Let's start with my menu favorite: bomba camarones. It comes with a bowl full of crispy shrimps and spicy aioli. This appetizer really served its purpose as it increased my hunger and prepared me for the main course.

Bomba Camarones, PHP 500

My second most favorite is Japonesa's signature roll called La Japonesa. It has crispy rice, spicy tuna, and green chili. Everyone in our group loved this dish. La Japonesa definitely deserves its spot as one of the restaurant's best. 

La Japonesa, PHP 650

I also tried their Pollo Negi which is a skewered chicken thigh with scallion. The meat is very tender and the sauce is like heaven in your mouth. Their Lengua Katsu (beef tongue katsu with creamy mashed potatoes) is also a crowd-favorite. 

Pollo Negi, PHP 220

Lengua Katsu, PHP 950

Sake Ajo Verde, the salmon with green garlic sauce, is definitely a must-try. From how the salmon was cooked down to its sauce, everything was good. If you love maki, I suggest you try Japonesa's Camarones Tempura. It comes with shrimp tempura. avocado, cucumber, and spicy aioli. Last but not the least, the Entero Shimeji. When you get a serving of this, you'll have shimeji mushroom with squash puree and garlic chimchurri. 

Sake Ajo Verde, PHP 790

Camarones Tempura, PHP 520

Entero Shimeji, PHP 380

Now on to the drinks! Of course, I wouldn't let the day pass without trying their most popular signature cocktail: Sakura. It's a mix of gin, strawberry, and hibiscus topped with fresh blooms that make it all the more Instagrammable. 

Sakura, PHP 400

Watermelon Hai-Ball, PHP 380 | 3 Olive Martini, PHP 550 | Cosmopolitan, PHP 400

You can also try their Watermelon Hai-Ball that is a mix of sake, watermelon juice, and elderflower. Not only is it aesthetically-pleasing but also flavorful. If you're having a girls' night (or day out), make sure to order a glass (or two) of Japonesa's Cosmopolitan and feel like Carrie Bradshaw for a day. Or, if you feel like having a James Bond moment, why not go for the three olive martini? 

Japonesa truly meets dining expectations with its offerings bursting with so much Japanese and Peruvian flavors meant to impress the foodie in you. 

Japonesa Poblacion

Address: 5658 Jacobo Street corner Don Pedro Street, Poblacion, Makati City

Budget: PHP 1,500 for two

Food: 8/10

Overall look: 7/10

Hospitality: 8/10

Is Japonesa Poblacion open now? Yes they are open.

Japonesa opening hours: 11am - 1am, Monday - Thursday & Sunday | 11am - 3am, Friday & Saturday

Contact information: Facebook / Instagram

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While each fine dining restaurant is unique, they all share a few common goals — to provide exceptional service, craft the most exquisite menu, and deliver a high-end experience. If you are looking to splurge on good food and good views, Mireio (pronounced as mee-reyo) is one of the many fine dining restaurants in Makati that will not disappoint you.

Situated in the central business district, Mireio is a brasserie-style restaurant offering Provencal-inspired cuisine. If you are well-versed in poetry, the fine dining restaurant's name will ring a bell. Mireio is named after Nobel Prize winning poet Federic Mistral's poem about a forbidden love between two young Provencal people of different social backgrounds. 

As you set your foot on Mireio's entrance, you will be welcomed by chic decor and a breathtaking cityscape view. The interior is simple but very elegant. The best tables are those in front of the floor-to-ceiling windows giving you an impeccable and unobstructed view of the Makati cityscape. If you love sunsets, I suggest you book for 5pm to see the whole dining area turn pinkish orange as the sun goes down. 

Just like the poem, this fine dining restaurant in Makati exudes romance and sophistication. You will not only see that from its interiors but also from the menu as they offer dishes crafted from the heart. The menu highlights the flavors of provinces in south of France. For starters, I ordered the roquefort cromesqui with iberico ham, tomato concasse arugula (PHP 640). Of all the dishes I tried at Mireio, this is my favorite. It is oozing with a savory flavor that bursts as you bite it. 

Starter | Roquefort cromesqui, iberico ham, tomato concasse arugula (PHP 640)

For the main course, I got their grilled free range duck breast, celeriac puree, green apple and duck juice. I’m a fan of duck but not the ones cooked in medium-rare. So I had to ask my boyfriend to switch meals. His was french free range bresse chicken supreme, creamy shallot puree porcini mushroom and baby spinach. It was delicious. I loved everything about it from the meat to its sauce. Then I paired it with Mireio’s cosmopolitan that’s just right for someone who doesn’t fancy alcoholic drinks too much. It is sweet and has a slight punch of alcohol. I liked it, too. 

Main course | Grilled free range duck breast, celeriac puree, green apple and duck juice (PHP 1,950)

Drink | Cosmopolitan (PHP 450)

Main course | French free range Bresse chicken supreme, creamy shallot puree porcini mushroom and baby spinach (PHP 1,500)

Then for dessert, I ordered the 65% maracaibo mousse with chocolate ice cream, truffle cake, and hazelnut crunch. I also tried Mireio’s coconut curd, fresh mango, and pineapple soup. Both desserts are heavenly! 

Dessert | Chocolate mousse (PHP 750)

Dessert | Coconut curd, fresh mango, and pineapple soup (PHP) 465

And as I said earlier, this fine dining restaurant in Makati will not disappoint you. Dining at Mireo Raffles Makati is one for the books.

Mirèio

Address: 9th floor, Raffles Makati, 1 Raffle Drive, Makati Avenue, Makati City

Budget: PHP 10,000 for a full-course meal for two

Food: 7.5/10

Overall look: 9/10

Hospitality: 8/10

Is Mireio Makati fine dining restaurant open now? Yes they are open.

Dress code: Smart casual

Contact information: +632 7795 1840 | mireio.makati@raffles.com

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When it comes to finding the perfect shapewear, there are a few things you need to take into consideration. First, you need to determine what your goal is – do you want to smooth out your silhouette, accentuate your curves, or both? Second, you need to find a style that will work with your wardrobe and make you feel comfortable. And finally, you need to make sure you pick the right size. With these things in mind, here is a stylist’s guide to picking the ideal shapewear. 

Black High Waist Open Butt Shapewear

Go for Seamless & full coverage options

If your goal is to smooth out your silhouette, you'll want to look for shapewear that is seamless and offers full coverage. High-waisted shapewear, a plus-size butt lifter, or a bodysuit are both great options. If you want to accentuate your curves, look for shapewear with strategic paneling. A waist cincher or a thigh slimmer can help give you the shape you want.

Deep Nude High Waist Tummy Control Butt Lifter Shorts With FrontZipper

Look out for shapewear that matches your wardrobe 

When it comes to style, you need to find shapewear that will work with your wardrobe. If you want to wear it under a fitted dress, look for something seamless and invisible under clothing. Shapewear is an amazing piece for both your everyday wardrobe and your gym gear. You can wear it under skirts and dresses, or on days when you want to stay comfortable even while working out.

Black Butt Lifter High Waisted Shapewear With Four Steel Bones 

A few factors will help determine the body shaper you should choose - if you're looking for one that's stylish enough to be worn alone, opt for one made of lace or has a decorative pattern. If you want something that works as a functional piece at the gym, try a fitted style made with compression fabric. Don’t overlook comfort You're going to feel like you can breathe and enjoy the breeze. On Wholesaleshapeshe official website, you’ll get seamless fabric engineered with pressurized ventilation that promotes efficient airflow that gives you freedom of movement, unlike competitors who are restricting your movement with stiff fabrics! Comfort is extremely important! 

Black Tummy Control Butt Shaping Panties Seamless

Always pick the right size 

Finally, you need to make sure you pick the right size. Shapewear should be snug but not too tight. It should also be comfortable to wear throughout the whole day. It’s always best to err on the side of larger rather than smaller if you’re not sure what size to get. Like we said earlier, are a few things you need to take into consideration when picking the shapewear from the best shapewear manufacturers. If you follow all the stylish's guidelines, you’ll be sure to find the ideal shapewear for you. Just make sure you determine what your goal is, find a style that works with your wardrobe, and pick the right size for optimal comfort. 

If there's one thing I hate about being stuck at home—it's boredom. With the pandemic still far from over, staying indoors is becoming the new normal. While spending time at the comforts of your own bed is nothing but rejuvenating, sometimes, it can get pretty boring. So, how can bet boredom?

From binge-watching your favorite rom-com Korean drama to becoming your own barista, we all have different ways of entertaining ourselves amid a global pandemic. One of the things I found enjoyable during the lockdown is playing online games. These games are not the kind that need pro skills though. My types of games are just simple, yet entertaining and can even improve your intellectual abilities. If you want a classic game of chance, you could check out this blackout bingo review. You can even play for real money!

Here I've rounded up my three favorite online games I'm playing to kill boredom.

1. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

If you've loved Mario and Luigi as a kid, then you're going to enjoy Super Smash Bros. Ultimate on Nintendo Switch to the core! It features iconic characters you can select as your hero that fights the opponent. This online game is perfect whether you want to play by yourself against another online gamer via a 1-on-1, or if you want to brawl with your friends. The game can cater to as much as 8 players! How fun is that, right? My biases are Simon, Zero Suit Samus, Palutena, and Bayonetta.

2. Hidden Object

How to play

• Find all the hidden objects in the game
• Click on an object to select it. Pinch or long click the image to zoom in or out
• This game has 10 levels which are timed. You must beat the prior level to unlock the next one
• If you are stuck on an item you can click on the [?] button then click on the item to reveal where it is located, though doing so will cost you 100 points
• Be careful about what you click though, because this game penalizes random guesses by removing 5 seconds from your time for each incorrect click

3. Word Search

Bookworms, get ready as this game's for you! Word Search is an awesome game that lets you find words on a puzzle. The puzzle features a combination of short and long words. And oh boy, long words might give you a headache. I'd definitely recommend this online game if you are bored and has a time to kill. Not only is this entertaining but you'll also learn new words that you haven't heard of before. In short, you'll have fun while learning.

How to play

• Read the list of words you need to find and start searching
• When you find words in the puzzles, they are highlighted in green

There’s no denying, days (and nights) sans undergarments are totally comfortable. Imagine feeling free as a bird, walking lightly as a feather, absolutely carefree—nice, huh? While ditching the undergarments gives us the comfiest feeling ever, there are days that we just want that extra support.

Whether you’re going out for a special occasion or just running some errands, we all have that go-to underwear. It could be our chic sports bra, seamless undies, aesthetic lace bralettes, or that bang for the buck shapewear that can make all the difference. 

Of course, when it comes to wearing undergarments like corsets or wholesale waist trainers with logo, you want one that's comfortable, breathable, and supportive without being limiting. The problem is when we hear the term shapewear, the first few words that come to mind are “tight” and “uncomfortable”. The former is true but the latter is not always the case especially if you choose the right brand, material, and size of shapewear for women. 

Gone are the days when women had to wear those Victorian-era corsets with tight lacings and metal panels. In this day and age, modern shapewear has changed in a lot of ways. They’re a lot more comfortable, fashionable, and wearable whenever. 

Shapewear is a great undergarment for these reasons:

• Flattering: It defines our body even better.
• Versatile: Shapewear can be paired with anything or worn as is (like a corset as an alternative top).
• Confidence-booster: Shapewear helps us to feel even more beautiful.

Don’t know how to wear a shapewear right? Here’s fashion stylist Annabel Tollman’s tip: "It can be tempting to get a tight undergarment, but if you squeeze your flesh in one area, it's going to pop out in another. If you're between sizes, always go up rather than down. If the shapewear bunches, rides up, or rolls at the top, that's because it's too small.” When wearing a waist trainer or corset, keep in mind that you should be able to breathe comfortably when you sit down. 

What are your thoughts on wholesale shapewear for women? Share them in the comment box below. 

I'm all for the "Love Your Body" campaigns but to be honest, there are times that I feel like I want to look like those Victoria's Secret Angels flaunting their hourglass bodies. It is not easy to achieve that figure though. Even if my mind strongly pushes me to work out regularly, I can’t find the motivation to put on my workout clothes and sweat everything out. Sure there are days I get active but most of the time, you will find me on my bed or on the couch munching on my favorite cheddar cheese popcorn.

If you are like me who is too lazy to work out, I think I might have the instant fix on Sculptshe. This clothing brand features women’s shapewear such as a full body shaper, activewear, and more! These garments are made with high-quality fabrics and with the best technology. 

Sculptshe believes that “every woman deserves to live every day looking and feeling her best. At Sculptshe, we empower you to be confident, sexy, and poised with exceptional-quality shapewear that enhances your natural beauty.”

Why you should get your own Sculptshe Shapewear?

If you’re still skeptical about women’s shapewear, here are some reasons why you should buy from Sculptshe:

1. It defines our body even better - Just from the name itself, you can already see the vision of the company to sculpt and tone the body. To live up to their mission and vision, they manufacture products like the full body compression garment that can sculpt the body, tone the body posture, and smoothen the body curves. 

2. It is of high quality and breathable - Shapewears like corsets or waist trainers have gained a reputation for being one of those “style-over-comfort” garments. But Sculptshe’s shapewear collections that include a plus size waist trainer are breathable to wear. 

3. It provides comfort and boosts your confidence - There’s no denying when we are comfortable in what we are wearing, it makes us feel good about ourselves and Sculptshe ensures that through their breathable and quality shapewear.

Whether you like to wear jeans or a dress, and whatever body type you have, Sculptshe’s slim shapewear helps you to achieve your dream body in an instant and allows you to feel good about yourself.