PLUS SIZE POWER: "YOU DESERVE TO BE LOVED AS IS, BECAUSE YOU FELL FOR HIM AS IS"

It's called equal rights.

Cheers!

Erzullie is a fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Shop online: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE FASHION: "THE BIG REVEAL" #OOTD

I see an Erzulliesta dancing her night away with her girlfriends. She wanted something flirty. She wanted to feel free from the stress she got from the weekday. So she picked this Erzullie see-through top and placed it over her favorite bra-but-not-so-obvious bra. Paired it with jeans and leopard heels and it was go-time.

Then there he was, spotting her in the middle of the moving crowd. He can't explain it. How such an unusual beauty have moved him in many ways unspoken. Must be the vibe of the place. Must be the flow of the way she moves, but this man, unknowingly, is being pulled close towards her. He can't help it. He just needs to know her.

Because that sense of freedom? #HELOVESIT

Want this #OOTD? Sign up and get an invite below!




Cheers!

Erzullie is an invite-only fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Get invited: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE FASHION: HOW TO EMBRACE STYLE THINGS YOU ARE AFRAID OF

Style is about self-exploration as much as self-expression. With every try of new clothing item, accessory, shoes or bag, you get to know yourself even more. Do you love it? Does it fit you? Does it work for you? And as you start to discover even more of yourself, you sometimes hit some limitations. Here are our tips on how to embrace style things you are scared about

#1 The Sleeveless

The trick is to not immediately go for the all-out nothing. You need to make the experience of wearing sleeveless enjoyable and comfortable until you get so used to it, it’s like breathing.
So, start with the length of sleeve that you are comfortable with. Then get one that is shorter than that. Then shorter, then shorter --- until whoa! No more sleeves mommy.

If you are insecure about your underarms or arms in general, here’s a though: “no one cares”. Everyone is really too busy to process what you are wearing, and if they did have time --- then omg, they need to get a life. It’s their problem. Not yours.

#2 The Above The Knee Bottom

Skirt, leggings or pants --- any kind of bottom. If you want to start embracing the “above the knee” length but don’t want to shock anyone, you have to introduce yourself to tights, leggings and long coats.

Okay, so some people are chanting that leggings are not pants. To be honest, some leggings are thick enough to be pants. However, they were initially made to be an “undergarment” for really short bottoms. Anyway, pick one that you can easily wear underneath for your skirt. For something more formal, then tights are the go-to piece.  For pants? Go for long outerwear to at least give you that “coverage” feel.

#3 Bright Prints/Colors

I understand why some people (any body shape) are afraid of bright prints and colors. For one thing, it may easily go out of style and sometimes it all depends on your skin tone.
But if you do want to start experimenting on bright prints/colors, choose one that compliments your favorite color. Don’t have an idea? Go check out the color wheel. Even better! Get the bright print/shade of your favorite color. It’s a good baby step to start being comfortable with it.

#4 Bodycons

A lot of curvy women are actually afraid of trying to find the perfect bodycon for them. For the most part, they will immediately think it’s unflattering. Well, here’s the solution --- shapewear and outerwear.

A woman with the perfect shapewear is the key to looking great in a bodycon dress. Curvy or skinny, you definitely need something underneath all of that to support, lift and shape your beautiful body. Once your body look firm and packed, the bodycon dress wll just drape beautifully on it.

Next step is outerwear. I prefer a chiffon cape that you can put on top of your bodycon to at least give you the “security blanket” that you may need in wearing the said dress. It gives you the feeling of “coverage”. When you get more comfortable as time passes by, then take it off and enjoy the way you look.

#5 Heels

Ah! The heels. Anyone (for me) will always look good on a shoe with a heel. But for those who are just starting out, you don’t need to immediately embrace the 6 incher. Go for the kitten heels (around 2 inches) and get familiar.

As you go higher in height, go for wedge first or at least chunky ones. It provides more support for the feet and you can stand on them longer. Once you get friendly with the idea, then go and embrace the sharp stiletto one.

Erzullie is an invite-only fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Shop online: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE FASHION: ERZULLIE HOLIDAY 2016 LOOK #5

Minimalist and elegant --- we imagine this would be the dress your are wearing for the formal dinner party you were invited in. And little did the whole world know that tonight is the night you will meet your lover. Loving it. Dress up for your love destiny and get this Erzullie Holiday 2016 dress by attending an Erzullie event. Sign up below and get an invite.

Trust us... this outfit? #HELOVESIT as much as you do.



Cheers!

Erzullie is an invite-only fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Shop online: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE POWER: HOW TO LOVE THE CURVES YOU’RE IN

Erzulliestas already have a triple PHD degree on this one. I can even imagine that some are just born loving their curves from the get to. But for those who are wondering or even just starting, here are my thoughts on HOW TO LOVE THE CURVES YOU’RE IN.

But before we go straight to that, let’s know first what does it mean to love the curves you’re in. I don’t know if you ladies have read this article “how to love the life you’re in”, but I am just going to pluck a wisdom from there and place it in this one. Modified, of course.

We are talking about waking up early in the morning and you feel GREAT about your body. In fact, you are loving it so much that no matter what shape or size you are in, you are so happy to just even have it. Thinner, fatter, smoother, rougher, wrinkly, lighter, darker --- however it’s customized that day --- you will always look at your body and say, “Damn. That’s one great body. I’m going to rock this today”.

With that aside, how do we get to that?

For me it starts with the acceptance of this fact: “all bodies are different and the magnanimity of beauty is so vast, it encompasses all of us as part its definition.”

It’s a fact, ladies. No amount of denial can actually make it go away. It’s as real as the Universe we live in and the laws that govern it. Beauty is all around us and we can’t escape the fact that we are and will always be part of it.

So it’s time to embrace that fact. We are beautiful because we are here. And truth of the matter is, we are all the definitions of beauty.

I want you to remember that this is your body. It was given to you. And why? Because you are mean to do great things with it. One of which is the juiciest part the second way to love the curves you’re in: enjoy it.

And how do you enjoy it? You use it.

Dance with it. Make babies with it. Kiss it. Run with it. Exercise with it. Do yoga with it. Make love with it. Cry, create, lift, jump, walk, see etc.

Use this mighty instrument with you and run with it. Experience the benefits each body part gives you.

Let your hands create, write, touch, feel, massage, point, do weird finger signs. Let your feet take you anywhere you please, kick, stretch, swim and put shoes on them. Let your tummy get filled with food and adorned with amazing belts. It can even do amazing core exercises!

Let your ears hear or even appreciate silence and get adorned with earrings. Adorn your boobs (BIG OR SMALL) with the sexiest bras and comfortable tops. Sway your hips as you walk and exude subtle seduction. The point is --- USE YOUR BODY and reap the benefits of every action. Learn to experience your body by using it for what’s its for --- to live.

And just like any tool, your body needs care, which is the third way to love the curves you’re in.
Eat the best food. Spoil yourself a little when you can. Exercise and relax often. Moisturize your skin. Adapt a beauty regimen. Make appointments for an annual check-up. Start looking at caring for your health as well. After all, the healthier you are, the longer your body will run. And the longer your body will run, the more time you get to enjoy it.

And the more you enjoy it, the more loving you will be towards your body because you see how amazing it is. And the more you see how amazing it is, you are going to want to keep on rocking it and finally always see it for what it really is --- fierce curves.

Erzullie is an invite-only fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Get invited: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE POWER: HOW TO LOVE THE LIFE YOU ARE IN (FULL ARTICLE)

So you got everything already --- love, money, career, friends, family and style --- how come you’re still not happy?

I find myself asking this question recently but before I get ahead of myself, I want to give you a little background of how all of this started.

8 years ago, I saw my 27 year old self to be married with kids. I have a house and I work part time, while attending to the needs of the house and my family. Yes. That was my simple dream.

Fast forward to the future, I am 30 years of age. I am not married. I don’t have kids. I work full time for Erzullie and part time as a fashion journalist and I, instead of kids, attend to the styling needs of my Erzulliestas. Yes. This is now my reality.

It’s a far cry from what I have planned 8 years ago. And to be honest, I was bummed about it. I was starting to question my life choices.

Did I actually make the right choices? If not, is it too late for me to start over?

If I look at my current life, it’s actually pretty great. I am a plus size fashion designer/writer. I take amazing plus size fashion photos. I work with amazing and creative people. I style the sassiest and fiercest curves in the Metro.

Work hour flexibility is amazing. I get paid to do what I love. It provides the essentials of survival --- even more. I organize parties. I interview Erzulliestas. I can watch movie whenever I want. I live in a safe neighborhood.

I can go on and be narcissistic about this. At the end of the day, I’m pretty sure someone out there would like to be in my place. And me? I need to start becoming wiser and enjoy the experience that someone would like to have.

This then leads me to the question --- why am I not in love with it in the first place?

First off, as I told you, I had a life plan 8 years ago and well it didn’t work out well. So I was thinking that since I wasn’t able to manifest what I sought out to do, I failed as a person. I failed as woman. EVEN WORSE--- I have failed me!

But then again, just because “I didn’t do what I was told to do” or “get what I was supposed to get” doesn’t mean that it was the really wrong thing to do or I failed. I just got other achievements if you look at it.

I may not have a husband, but I have a great lover who actually is patient enough to go through my highs and lows.

I may not have kids, but I do have a lot of great people in my life and some of them have kids! I get to baby sit them for short periods of time and still be able to do what I love after.

I may not have a house, but I do have my own place. It’s in a big building, with great security, a gym and a swimming pool.

I may not have a part time job, but I do have a full time business AND a lot of part time jobs that I like to do.

So, technically, I didn’t fail. I just decided along the way that I wanted other things that are way better.

Next, I compare myself to the people my age. And THIS ONE is my favorite (sense my sarcastic tone). 

You know that moment wherein it’s 2 am and you are on social media and you see people your age doing parties, getting married, getting engaged, having boyfriends, loving babies, having dogs, traveling like a celebrity etc. and there you are in front of your laptop in the dark with a scrunch up hair, big shirt that hasn’t been washed for 2 days and in your undie, drinking some soda and eating some chips?

Yes. That moment.

It starts to make you question. Am I living my life to the fullest? The rest of the people around me seems like they are living a “on-the-go” life all the time. Something is always happening to them. They are always having something new. They always have something taken “to the next level”.

And me? I was browsing and viewing their experiences.

Anyway, as always, one of my Erzullie Icons, Kat Lopez, came to the rescue. She shared with me this article about Facebook making people depressed. (I can’t find it anymore but seriously, type facebook and depression and a lot of articles will pop out) I have realized at that point that what the people in my feed are sharing is just the best snippets of their life.

For all I know, it’s just for show. And truth of the matter is, people share what they really just want to share. So imagine what they are not sharing online.

From then on, I actually stopped using that as a point of comparison. Social media is handy tool to document your life, but then remember --- you will only want to document what you want to. Not everything is saved.

Finally, the reason that I don’t love it as much is because I feel as though I did not deserve it. 
Whuuuuuuuuutttttt, Aries? Seriously?

Yes, girl. Seriously.

My career in the fashion industry started roughly 8 years ago. I only had a passion for it. We really just wanted to do a business. Eventually, it just became a life purpose. So ultimately, me and Berna just dared to do something because we just really felt like this is what we should be doing with our lives.

Everything that I have learned, I have learned through experience, books, YouTube videos, other people etc. I did go to Fashion school for 1 module and did not even finish it up to the end. Helped me a lot nonetheless. Berna went to Slim’s and that helped a lot in improving the brand.

But personally for me, I just have a feeling that I still have something to earn my place in the fashion industry. Despite the fact that I do call myself a plus size fashion designer (you ladies have seen my sketches, our process etc.) I still feel as though I need to really earn that job title. Like I need to have that moment in my life wherein it’s really official --- I am a plus size fashion designer.

Stupid. I know.

Because at the end of the day, I can line up Erzullie’s achievements and evidences of her success, but if I say “it’s not worth anything” --- it’s really not going to be worth anything.

So what does that mean? Value is determined by me. And if right now, as of writing, I cannot define a single “requirement” of what it really takes for me to finally believe that I am a designer, then maybe I should accept the fact that I am talking crazy.

Truth of the matter is, I do deserve it. I spent hours of my life doing this. I spent brain cells and lung capacity to take photos, make decisions, calculations, marketing, public relations etc. This life that I am living? It wasn’t handed to me. I worked my way towards it.

So yes. Yes dumb nuts (I am talking to me) --- I do deserve it.

Since all those things have already been debunked, we now turn to another question --- WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO LOVE THE LIFE YOU ARE IN?

Well, I am talking about that moment wherein you wake up every day in the morning and your first thought is, “I am so happy and blessed to wake up today. I get to do live one more day to do all the things that I love!” or at least this one, “I don’t care how bad it is today. I will get through it and I will do it all over again in a heartbeat because I love it.”

Those kinds of thoughts.

That’s what we are aiming for here.

You know you love your life when whether or not it’s going to be a good day, bad day, hard day, soft day, inactive day --- ANY KIND OF DAY --- to your heart you know, it’s going to be the best one for your spirit.

WHICH NOW LEADS US TO THE MAIN QUESTION--- HOW DO YOU LOVE THE LIFE YOU’RE IN?

For me, it starts with the mind and you need to really realize a couple of things:

#1 You really got everything you ever wanted right now. So it’s time for you to use these things for your enjoyment. 

#2 Someone actually wants to be you right now --- so act like that person and run with it.

I want to start with #1 (OF COURSE!) Now, not a lot of people would agree with me on using this as an example, but every time I would think about this thought, this scene from Etiquettes for Mistresses, wherein Claudine Barretto’s character gives advice to Kim Chiu, pretty much sums it up.

“May choice ka --- either mag-mukmuk ka or i-enjoy mo na lang.” translation: “You have a choice --- either you mope around or just enjoy it.”

And it’s honestly the perfect thing for the first one. You got everything now and truth is, you can make up 1,000 more reasons NOT TO BE SATISFIED. But then again, why need those reasons?

The choice is yours --- either you mope around and never be satisfied or you take your beautiful life right now and enjoy it! That simple.

So how do you enjoy it? USE IT.

You have a nice family? Plan a gathering.

You have an amazing career? Work with a smile. Aim for a promotion. Make more money.

You have a great lover? Plan a date. Dress up. Surprise him.

You have a best friend? Go out with her. Have a wild night you will always remember.

Have a lot of money and free time? Travel! Pursue a hobby!

Got a phone? Browse the net. Call! Text!

USE IT. USE ALL THE BEAUTIFUL THINGS THAT YOU HAVE RIGHT NOW AND RUN WITH IT. Feel, see, eat, taste, touch, smell, digest etc. all the benefits that each and every beautiful thing in your life has to offer right now.

USE IT. That’s how you enjoy the life you have right now. USE IT. Milk the benefits as much as you can. USE IT. More example:

Got hands? PAINT. WRITE. MASSAGE. DRAW. TEXT.

Got feet? WALK. RUN. KICK. DANCE. STRIDE.

Got eyes? MUSEUM. GET SHADES. GET EYESHADOWS. PUT ON EYESHADOWS.

Got nose? SMELL ROSES. USE AROMATHERAPY. BREATHE.

Got hair? CONDITION. STYLE. CURL. CARE. TIE UP. LOOSEN UP.

The possibilities of every great thing in your life right now is almost unlimited. USE IT. TAKE IT PLEASE AND RUN WITH IT.

And if you’re curvy and fierce…

Got boobs? BUY NEW BRA. WEAR LINGERIE. TRY NEW TOPS.

Got flabs? BUY SHAPEWEAR. LOVE HIGH WASTED BIKINIS. TRY CORSETS.

Got ass? GET THONGS, G STRINGS, CHEEKY PANTIES.

You know what it is.

THE POINT IS --- USE IT AND ENJOY THE BENEFITS. That’s one way to really love the life you are in.

For the second one (someone actually wants to be you right now --- so act like that person and run with it), this is also fairly simple --- FEEL LUCKY and be thankful for it.

Let it be known and yes be rest assured that SOMEONE REALLY WANTS TO BE YOU RIGHT NOW. They may not vocalize it. You may not know these people, but it’s really a fact. Someone out there would like to be you right now. Why? Because you got something that they only wish they could have.

It could be your looks, promotion, family, good luck, faith etc. It’s the little things that TO YOU don’t matter, but to them, to have those is going to make their life better.

So if you cannot appreciate it while it’s in front of you, try to see it in another person’s point of view. And if you think about it, in all the beings in the Universe, you got to ask --- why were you chosen to have this, when someone else out there is dying to get this?

Just that small question will leave almost anyone in great awe already.

I want you to marvel at that small fact for a second. Take your time even. Put your phone/tablet down and look around you or even just look at the table in front of you or the bag that you have with you right now. Look at the stuff you own.

OUT OF ALL THE BEINGS IN THE UNIVERSE, YOU HAVE THESE STUFF WITH YOU. Sure these things may have duplicates, but OUT OF ALL OF THE DUPLICATES, this one is yours and SOMEONE out there, don’t have it. These duplicates are still limited and YOU have them.

You got to love the fact that you are so lucky right now that in the randomness of things, you still get to have what you have right now with you. You still get to use what you have with you. You still get to reap the benefits of what you have with you.

Someone out there wants to get it. Someone out there wants to experience it. But you did something that we don’t know and you end up having it.

That’s a miracle right there. So take that fact and run with it. SAY THANK YOU. Be grateful. Not everyone will ever be blessed just like you. Because your kind of blessed will always be different and never be duplicated.

Feel lucky right here and now. You were chosen to experience these things.

Now that we got those TWO major things into light. I want to add a third one.

#3 Know that life is like a river. And if something has to go, know that a new thing is on the flow. 

Just like #1 I got a movie in mind for this. It’s a Disney one. It’s Pocahontas. She mentions in one of her songs, “You can’t step on the same river twice.” And it’s true. The river is constantly moving. So when you do step on it, no matter how fast, you can’t really step on the same water twice.

And if there is one thing we know about life is that it’s all about moving forward. Changes. Transformations. Resurrection. Rebirth. Transience. All those things are part of life all meant to propel us towards the new states we should be in. From this, you can compare life to a river (which is also moving forward).

And just like a river, every experience is a new experience. All first kisses, dates, love, time etc. will always be different from another. New players. New time. New place. New situation and so on.
As much as we are enjoying it by using it (#1) and being grateful about it (#2), know that part of loving the life you are in is accepting that old things will have to go so that new things will have a place.

And that’s still a positive thing.

You’re wondering why your long term relationship ended that way? A new and better relationship is coming along.

Your favorite black dress broke? It’s time to find a new one!

Your landlord is telling you to move out? Here’s a new opportunity to find a new neighborhood!
You may even be surprised. Maybe there is no direct replacement, but there will definitely be a new thing coming your way.

My direct experience on this one is that I used to have a job that I really enjoyed. I was really grateful for it because it even paid great money that supported my lifestyle. Unfortunately, things went awry on the job. I was constantly disrespected and unappreciated by my boss. I just knew that I had to let go, but I was afraid that if I do let go of that job, I won’t be able to find a new one.

But I just literally said, “f*ck it”. I know. I should expand my vocabulary, but that is just what I said. It felt wrong. I knew that I shouldn’t be holding on to it anymore.

And so I let go. And you know what? I got 2 new part-time jobs now that I am actually very giddy about. I am definitely happier than before.

And so, I leave you with these three simple rules on how to love the life you are in. And just like any blessing in your life --- use it and enjoy, feel lucky and grateful that you have it and when the time comes that it no longer applies, let it go and allow the new wisdom to flow.

Erzullie is an invite-only fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Get invited: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE STYLE: TASK OF THE WEEK...

We all have the "one" shade. So why not break that and go for something contrasting?

Cheers!

Erzullie is a fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Shop online: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE POWER: "I AM MY OWN DEFINITION OF SEXY"

Yes you are. We were never the cookie-cutter type anyway.

Cheers!

Erzullie is a fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Shop online: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE DESIGNER: DALE VILLEGAS | MY M.A.

Honestly? We just felt like it. Dale Villegas has been my MA for more than 2 years (almost now). She is smart, humble, professional and definitely a fast learner. Just check out the photos and see what she learned from our models. Haha!

Vest by: Erzullie
Styling by: Nikki Tan
Make-Up: Audrey Lee
Photography: Aries De Guzman

And if you are curious --- M.A. is marketing assistant.

Cheers!

Erzullie is an invite-only fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Get invited: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE POWER: 10 SIGNS THAT YOU ARE LOVING YOURSELF RIGHT NOW | PART II

Into the self-love game but don’t know how you are faring? Check out 10 top signs that you are loving yourself right now.

CLICK HERE FOR PART I.

#6 You trust your instinct more.

Sometimes, we are afraid of our own instincts because our own brain and logic cannot explain why the decision must be “that way”. But if you find yourself trusting it even more, despite the odds, then you are definitely showing more faith in yourself.

And guess what? If you do have faith in yourself, then you know that you are loving yourself more.

#7 You are assertive of what you want in life

Toxic people are gone. Unnecessary situations are banished. Hard decisions are made. All because you know that you are worth all the “detoxification”.

If you have done this despite all of your “fear” and “danger” feels blaring out, then you definitely know that you love yourself. Because all that trouble and loss? You know that you are worth all the gain.

#8 You are motivated to improve

We are already perfect just the way we are. This is definitely true. However, improving yourself is also about self-exploration and discovery. If you are starting to embrace new experiences just to see how you would like it --- then that’s definitely a sure sign that you are loving yourself right now. I mean, think about it --- you want to know yourself more!  

#9 You feel like you can “go” anytime and not have regrets about your life

It’s a bit dark. True. However, feeling like if this was the last day on earth, you are calm enough to say that you are ready to embrace it, then you know that you are whole. And being whole means that you took all the time in the world to know the curls and corners of your spirit --- if that doesn’t mean self-love, then I don’t know what is.

#10 You feel that your life is complete right now. 

Single. Taken. Full time Job or Part-Time. Semi-Successful or not. It doesn’t matter to you. However what does is that you know that you did your best and you feel complete and happy about your life decisions.

Why is that a sign that you are loving yourself right now? For one thing, you are not beating yourself up for the small things. But above all, you know that you made this life that you are enjoying right now. And loving it and feeling complete about it is your ultimate stamp of approval (which is usually hard to give to yourself by the way).

Erzullie is an invite-only fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Shop online: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE FASHION: ERZULLIE HOLIDAY 2016 LOOK #4

Fun, playful and a touch of sass! This dress is perfect for those "serendipity" kind of meet ups. Bookstores, cafes or just plain stroll in the mall --- we hope that this is the dress that catches his attentions and gives him courage to approach you. Dress up for your love destiny and get this Erzullie Holiday 2016 dress by attending an Erzullie event. Sign up below and get an invite.

Trust us... this outfit? #HELOVESIT as much as you do.



Cheers!

Erzullie is an invite-only fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Shop online: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE FASHION: "BY LAND, SEA OR AIR" #OOTD

Date-situation adaptable --- the only way I can describe this outfit. Shorts for a bit of casual. Erzullie top for a bit of formal and boots to make it look edgy. Keep the date life fierce, ladies!

Want this #OOTD? Sign up and get an invite below!




Cheers!

Erzullie is an invite-only fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Get invited: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE POWER: 10 THINGS TO REFRESH YOURSELF (INSPIRATION WISE) | PART II

Stuck in a rut in the creativity/inspiration department? Feeling listless? Feeling worthless? Feeling like there is no reason in the world to continue? Maybe you just need some spirit refreshment. Here are 10 powerful “cocktails” to drink in.

CLICK HERE FOR PART I

#6 Drink cold water (lots of it)

Feeling stressed? Relax with a nice cool glass of water. Feeling fancy? Put a squeeze of lemon juice in it and some ice. Now sit and enjoy your short cool down.

#7 Get spiritual

No matter what spiritual path your in, one sure fire way to rejuvenate the soul is to connect with it. Take some times out. Tell your boss you are going to your sacred space or something and actually go there. Sit and connect with your spiritual roots.

#8 Turn off social media for a moment

In a world of constant connection, we don’t even realize that we are always “on-call” 24/7. Isn’t that crazy? No time to stop and rejuvenate. We are constantly bombarded with ideas, messages, calls, emergencies and needs and wants of others. It’s both amazing and tiring all at the same time.
Even worse --- we think this is the norm now.

But you have to remember, you get tired too. And part of being tired is resting. One way of resting is to lessen the external stimuli you might be experiencing. And the way to do just that is to disconnect from the online world and say, “wow --- is that a bird?” lol

#9 Draw/Color

No wonder adult coloring books are a thing now. It’s actually pretty rejuvenating for the spirit and when you see the photo that you have accomplished, you may actually see how creative you can get after all. It just needed a proper break and outlet for you to actualize it.

#10 Fierce up

I can’t stress this enough. When you are feeling down and uninspired, one way of changing your mood is to change your clothes. So get out your favorite Erzullie outfit and fierce up. You will be surprised on where this new energy will take you.

Erzullie is an invite-only fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Get invited: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE STYLE: TASK OF THE WEEK...

It's not much of a common color but try it out! May it be in make-up or accessories.

Cheers!

Erzullie is a fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Shop online: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE POWER: "I CHOOSE THE RIGHT LOVER FOR ME"

The one that makes you grow even more as a better person.
"
Cheers!

Erzullie is a fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Shop online: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE POWER: ARE WE OVERREACTING ABOUT OUR BODY?

“I can’t wear that. My (insert body part here) is ugly.”

I have to admit, there are times when I am dressing up a client that comes up. Don’t get me wrong, even Erzulliestas have those days. I think all women do. And you know what I usually think after they say that?

“It’s ugly?”

Being me, I sometimes do blurt that out, but then I follow it up with this --- “You do know that other women have that kind of body part. Do you think they are ugly?”

Clients usually get startled and start to think of a small back track. Of course, they don’t think it that way. We actually all think that other women are always beautiful just the way they are, but how come when it comes to ourselves we think that we are the ugliest thing we have ever seen? Specially --- that body part?

The only reason that I can think of is that we are constantly bombarded by the suggestions of how it should be. And when we see that our body is not like that, then we start seeing the things that were never there.

Sad but true.

But I do propose a solution. We can’t really help being bombarded by all of these suggestions. It’s everywhere. However, just like the boat that you are, as long as you don’t allow the “water” (suggestions) to sink in, you are going to stay afloat.

So for short, it’s about being conscious of your thoughts. Spot yourself when you are about to think negatively about yourself. When you do, say, “Thank you thought, but now you have to go back to the sea of other thoughts. You can’t sink my boat today.”

Some will say that this is oversimplification. For me? It’s called a small step, and doing that small step numerous times will constitute to a journey. And hopefully, to a bigger solution to fully end it.
And just to aid it even more? Just remember. Other women may have it smaller or bigger than you. When you criticize it for being too big or small, just remember that you have just unknowingly insulted the rest of womanity. And definitely, as a woman who loves our part of the specie, you don’t want that.

Spread the body love. Starting with your own.

Erzullie is an invite-only fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Shop online: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE POWER: 10 SIGNS THAT YOU ARE LOVING YOURSELF RIGHT NOW | PART I

Into the self-love game but don’t know how you are faring? Check out 10 top signs that you are loving yourself right now.

#1 You are dressing up more

Find yourself on a styling streak? Great news! It meanst hat youa re loving your body right now and adorning it like you should be. You go, girl!

#2 You have noticed that you have criticized yourself less lately

I would like to believe that we can fully eradicate that, but you can’t deny that at times you just have that habit one time or another. But hey! If you find yourself criticizing yourself less --- bravo!

#3 You have been identifying your achievements more

You don’t have to post it in social media. The important part is that you recognized it in you.
You ate a salad today? Good! You went 10 minutes on the treadmill? Perfect! You got out of bed today and went early for work? You’re a goddess!

Identifying your achievements, big or small, is a great sign of loving yourself.

#4 Less stress
Stress will definitely be part of your life, but if you find yourself taking more time of managing it to care for your body, then you know you are on the right track! Self-love is also about body care and being healing towards it is the way to go.

#5 You are happy, even when you are alone.

You know how to entertain yourself alone? That’s amazing! It means that you are getting to know yourself more. And getting to know yourself more means that you are loving what you are discovering about yourself. Trust us. You are loving yourself right now.

Erzullie is an invite-only fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Shop online: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE FASHION: ERZULLIE HOLIDAY 2016 LOOK #4

Power attracts power --- and that's why you only deserve your equal. May it be for love or style, never settle for less. And that's why for the time you meet your soulmate, this is the dress! Dress up for your love destiny and get this Erzullie Holiday 2016 dress by attending an Erzullie event. Sign up below and get an invite.

Trust us... this outfit? #HELOVESIT as much as you do.



Cheers!

Erzullie is an invite-only fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Shop online: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE POWER: 10 THINGS TO REFRESH YOURSELF (INSPIRATION WISE) | PART I

Stuck in a rut in the creativity/inspiration department? Feeling listless? Feeling worthless? Feeling like there is no reason in the world to continue? Maybe you just need some spirit refreshment. Here are 10 powerful “cocktails” to drink in.

#1 Take a shower.

It’s simple and direct to the point. I am talking about a good hot shower to ease your muscles or a cold one to invigorate you from head to toe. A change in temperature will change your body’s mood in a flash!

#2 Change scenarios

Maybe you feel ugly because you see all the ugly things around you. Take your favorite bag, put on your fiercest Erzullie outfit and go out. See something beautiful. Watch a movie. Try a new restaurant. Have a coffee. Just change your scene. It will definitely shift your views and spirit.

#3 Practice breathing for 3 minutes (at least)

Be aware of your breathing for at least 3 minutes. But Aries! I got things to do!
Guess what? It’s still going to be there after 3 minutes. So take the 3 minutes and run with it to refresh yourself.

#4 Talk to a friend (a positive one at that)

Ask about their day. Laugh a little. Sometimes looking at other people’s situations can actually refresh our views about our own. So go ahead and chat with a positive person. It will rejuvenate you

#5 Watch something funny.

Cartoons or movies --- it doesn’t matter. Just find that one movie that always make you laugh. Laughter will definitely change your spirit and your perception about your current situation.

PART II NEXT WEEK

Erzullie is an invite-only fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Get invited: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE FASHION: THIN VS. THICK BELTS --- WHICH ONE TO GO FOR?

Belts are an Erzulliesta’s best friend (aside from her other Erzulliesta sisters). In fact, I can even go on to say that any woman should be able to master this accessory. It’s no longer just about keeping our pants up. It’s also now used to create some amazing visual illusions to the body. But which one should we go for? Thin or thick?

First off, I want to acknowledge that there is also a “medium” sized belt. The one between the thin or thick. These would be the ones that is already as thick as your thumb in terms of height. Anything below that or higher than that is no longer regular. So around 2 inches would be the measurement.

This type of belt is actually great for actual function of keeping any bottoms up as usually this is the size of the “belt holders” in the bottoms. So if you are looking for some functionality, pick this one. Thin ones are too flimsy and thick ones just won’t fit.

Next, Thin belts! Anything beneath 2 inches is already considered as a thin belt. If you are looking for instant definition of your north and southern borders, then go for the thin belt.

The great thing about this little number is that you can actually “pile them on” to create a whole new look. Think of them as bangles but for your waist. You can even connect them from one end to another to give you that edgy rustic look as you wrap it around your body.

Place the belt at your natural waist line (the smallest part of your torso). If you can’t find it, chances are you are wearing the wrong bra, as it is not providing you the proper lift. Get one that lifts your twins up to stretch your torso and finally reveal to you your long lost (and sometimes ignored) waist line.

Finally, THICK BELTS. Anything beyond 2 inches is already considered as a thick belt. If you are looking for support and torso elongation, then this should be your baby. Thick belts usually have a garter option (at least that is the current trend). Choose one that gives you great support for your belly and reveals the curvature of your waistline, emphasizing your breasts and hips. Instant hour glass figure!

Now, a tip about these belts. When the closure is at the back, chances are it provides more support to the tummy. If the closure is at the front, the flap may bulk up in front and thus, not provide as much support.

Erzullie is an invite-only fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Get invited: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE STYLE: TASK OF THE WEEK

Love celebrities? Try to copy your favorite star's style today!

Cheers!

Erzullie is a fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Shop online: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE POWER: ON BOYFRIENDS AND CURVES

He wouldn't be with you if he didn't!

Cheers!

Erzullie is a fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Shop online: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE POWER: THE REASON TO SAVE YOURSELF

I want to tell you something right now. You have to save yourself. Only you can do that and no one else. People can keep on encouraging you to do this, advice you to do that, burn their eardrums trying to listen and understand you, but if you do not do this for yourself --- then no amount of effort in the world will every make a difference to you.

I have learned that yesterday. I was feeling down and worthless. I felt uninspired and listless and honestly? As a person with broad spirituality (at least, I try), I was hoping that the heavens would send some sort of spark within me to electrify me at least. Make me feel alive again.

No one came. No one did. At that moment of waiting, it was only I still in that bed --- alone.

No one was going to save me, but me. I have realized.

People may view that as a bad thing, as a sad thing, that we live in a world where only WE can save ourselves.

I see this is a good thing. I see this as a moment of power. It’s actually a liberating thing. We can get out of the situation we have placed us in, anytime that we want. All we have to do is to choose to do so.

You want to wake up loving yourself? Decide to do so. Commit to it every day as much as you can. You will falter, yes. There will be times that you want to just end it all and give up, but what’s really important is the fact that you decide to continue.

Beat rocks for all I care just to pound out the sadness, but make the choice that in the end, choose to heal up. Choose the healthier choice. Choose yourself. Choose to love yourself and save yourself from all the current horrors that you are in.

Doesn’t matter if you were successful. The point is you did it. And in the end, no matter what was the outcome? I assure you --- you survived longer than you thought you did.

And with those thoughts, I have decided to get out of bed, dress up, get some books and soak myself with some deep self-loving. I went out to a café and read. I have realized at that point, I am so glad I have made that choice. If I didn’t save myself that day, I wouldn’t be typing this message to all of you, ladies.

Hopefully, this will inspire you to keep on going, because point of the matter is that feeling down and out is part of life. It's what we do with it that matters more.

Erzullie is an invite-only fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Get invited: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE FASHION: ERZULLIE HOLIDAY 2016 BTS

ERZULLIE DESIGNER, BERNA CUEVAS, DIRECTING ERZULLIE ICON AND PLUS SIZE MODEL LOREN MONARES

If you're wondering how the fierceness was born...

Erzullie Icon and Plus Size Model, Loren Monares, headlines the Holiday 2016 collection along with her boyfriend (also a model), Salih Susuroğlu. Hair by Erzullie designer, Bernalyn Cuevas. Make up by: Azaza Rodriguez.

STYLING TIME

ERZULLIE ICON LOREN MONARES GETTING HER MAKE UP ON FROM AZAZA RODRIGUEZ

OOOOOH... BRUSHES

THIS IS HOW WE DO HAIR AT THE SHOWROOM

GETTING HAIR DONE

ERZULLIE MARKETING ASSISTANT DALE VILLEGAS FIXING THE SET

THE HOLIDAY 2016 COLLECTION

THE TEAM IN FORMATION

Cheers!

Erzullie is an invite-only fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Get invited: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE FASHION: ERZULLIE HOLIDAY 2016 LOOK #3

That subtle "come hither" with a touch of class --- this dress is the embodiment of your "first time to meet" fantasy with your soulmate. Dress up for your love destiny and get this Erzullie Holiday 2016 dress by attending an Erzullie event. Sign up below and get an invite.

Trust us... this outfit? #HELOVESIT as much as you do.



Cheers!

Erzullie is an invite-only fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Shop online: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE EVENT: FIRST LOOK | HOLIDAY 2016

ERZULLIESTAS ABOUT TO TAKE A SELFIE

We would like to thank all of the Erzulliestas that went to the First Look: Holiday 2016 event. VIP's enjoyed shopping the collection first before it's public release on September 2016. Check out the event photos!

YUMMY FOOD BY DAINTY DOSE

(L-R) ERZULLIE ICON AND PLUS SIZE MODELS CAROL PERLA AND AUDREY LEE AND ERZULLIESTA ZAZA RODRIGUEZ

ERZULLIE DESIGNER, BERNA CUEVAS, PRESENTING SOME OF THE DRESSES

ERZULLIE DESIGNER, BERNA CUEVAS, SHOWING MORE OF THE ERZULLIE HOLIDAY 2016

SHOPPING TIME!

THE FASHION HUNGER GAMES BEGIN!

ERZULLIE DESIGNER, BERNA CUEVAS, STYLES THE #HELOVESIT CAPE OF ERZULLIESTA ZAZA

GET YOUR STYLE AND SIZE --- FAST!

STYLE IS FOR EVERY SIZE. 

'Til the next one, Erzulliestas!

Want to attend an Erzullie event? Get an invite!





Cheers!

Erzullie is an invite-only fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Get invited: www.erzullie.com

PLUS SIZE MODEL: JOHNA PARDIÑEZ #OOTD

Just loving these #OOTD shots by Erzulliesta Johna! Hair by Berna Cuevas. Make Up by Audrey Lee. Styling by Audrey Arias. Clothes by Erzullie.

Want to participate in an Erzullie #OOTD shoot? Sign up and get an invite!




Cheers!

Erzullie is an invite-only fierce plus size fashion designer brand from the Philippines dedicated to serving the style of the empowered Erzulliesta. Get invited: www.erzullie.com