It’s graduation season! I have fond memories for this time of the year. My Lola used to bring me to Baclaran a few weeks before graduation to look for a new dress to wear to the ceremony. She was so proud of me - I was always an honor student - so she wanted me to have something nice when I walked up the stage to get my diploma. I think this went on from elementary to high school!

It’s been a while since then, but I’d like to share some graduation dress recos from my favorite plate to shop for clothes online - Zalora!

Even just three years ago, my wardrobe was dictated by the events I needed to go to. I would buy dresses and pieces specifically for an activity and usually I would be under duress because I don’t have that much time to shop. Most of the time, I’d end up with clothes that don’t fit really well or are overpriced off-the-rack because I was in a rush and needed something ASAP. My wardrobe was a mess. Things didn’t really match because there wasn’t any planning whatsoever!

I started investing in fine jewelry in my late 20’s. Nothing beats owning something that will last a lifetime. But since fine jewelry does not come cheap, I find it best to choose classic pieces that will not look dated a decade from now. If you are thinking of starting a capsule collection of jewelry, choose pieces that are versatile so you get the most out of them. Here are my five recommendations for the most essential pieces of jewelry!

When it comes to fashion, I like keeping an eye on the latest trends. Even so, I know that classic cuts and detailed craftsmanship will always look good! Comfort and practicality are also musts, of course. So I have mad respect for local fashion brand Plains & Prints, as they always seem to come up with updated pieces that have a timeless look to them, without sacrificing wearability and comfort. I also appreciate the fine detail work and excellent materials they use. Best of all, their collaborations with local artists make it possible for people like me to own wearable art! They have truly come a long way in their 25 years of existence, coming from humble beginnings as co-founder Roxanne A. Farillas’ clothing stall in Greenhills, to a respected fashion house with branches nationwide.

When we got a sneak peek of the full roster of H&M Beauty, I was personally curious if the quality lived up to its chic packaging. In general, the eye and lip products are great and can really compete with more established brands but what caught my eye was their set of Powder Blushers, which range from soft hues to shocking pigments. They're just P499 at select H&M branches. Naturally, I got three… because that’s what people like me do.

Are you ready to get all dolled up for the slew of parties and reunions you scheduled this season? Extra special touches to our hair, makeup, and clothes get us in the right mood to party, plus knowing that we look fab helps us brush off those rude "tumaba ka" comments that people make. If only we could all dress like Barbie, right? Well, thanks to Plains & Prints, now we can!