The past week magnified the fact that mirrors are not actually reliable measuring instruments for they simply show you the present and the reflection you see will be vulnerable to a subjective perception. Days presented situations wherein I struggled with sick days, enjoyed the freedom from cosmetics, endured roughing it and, basically, went about the rest of week with a certain amount of normalcy since I still do have to go to work and there were people to see, places to be at and tasks to be completed.

With that said, it only felt natural to document the first few days following the Dove 7-Day No Mirror Challenge.

I hope you folks will always remember that you control what is reflected on that mirror and you don’t even need it to define who or what you are. Use it as a support tool for essentials. And that’s it. You are beautiful regardless of how society defines it. Believe it.

Style Notes
Accessories: Sunnies, Mango; Earrings, Diva; Necklace, Lee Hwa Jewelry; Watch, Hand me down from my sis; Ring, Flea Market
Wardrobe: (Outfit 1) Green Cami, Supré; White Tank, Topshop; Ripped Jeans, Mango; (Outfit 2) Pink Sleepwear, Aeropostalé
Makeup: Let me know if you want me to include notes on this. I’ll add it if requested.

I hope you folks enjoyed the clip! Also, if any of you have clips to share, please do! I’d love to see them as well.

Btw, feel free to see the clips I did for the No Mirror Challenge:
DOVE 7-Day No Mirror Challenge: Day 1 and 2
DOVE 7-Day No Mirror Challenge: Day 3 and 4
DOVE 7-Day No Mirror Challenge: Day 5, 6 and 7

It’s over. I’ve done it. I survived.

Amazing, isn’t it?

At some point, 7 days seemed long. Twas probably right before I accepted the challenge but now that it’s over, it feels like I breezed through the entire thing and is left wanting for more. Ha. Odd. I reckon the joy of discovery overwhelmed me, video editing in particular (I heart iMovie).

The week certainly was composed of good and bad things all balanced out. Sick days (Day 6 & Day 7) prodded me to tinker with MrBoo and get my arse to finally tackle the task of documenting and blogging my No Mirror experience. Good thing since the challenge was almost over. Egad. I’m pretty new to the whole video/filming/editing thing so clips are, er, clips. Visual aids and a matter of wit in delivering what was asked of an ambassador.

Admittedly, the challenge was not too much of a hassle on my part. I can do without makeup on most days but it’s the grooming part that got to me. I reckon I’ve mentioned this at least a couple of times before and it still rings true today. I will always need a mirror for basic needs. But, I do occasionally enjoy it for vanity reasons as well. Hehe.

What this experience gave me is the reinforcement of certain insights that may have grown cobwebs at the back of my mind, or perhaps reminded me of cliches that had already ran bald from use. There are individuals who have relied on physical attributes to sell themselves, masking personalities; shadowing character. They believe that personal image can be packaged around makeshift looks, style and yes, even who they know or hang out with.

A nature trip has helped remind me of essentials and fundamentals. A landscape often described as majestic, wonderful, amazing, gorgeous and, yes, beautiful which didn’t require a mirror to tell itself of such truth in description. No cosmetic nor artificial supplement to enhance its beauty.

The task of filming and editing videos paved the way for me to realise that something simple can be made into something better or even great. It’s not the equipment or location or cast of individuals in it but the eye, creativity and patience to make a cohesive piece. Beauty can indeed be found anywhere, just make sure you’re paying attention.

Here’s Day 5, Day 6 and Day 7 all in one clip:

I didn’t make a spectacle of “avoiding” mirrors because, like the rest of this exercise, it’s all in your head. I simply chose to ignore my reflection (apart from the outright covering of main mirror in my room). I opted not to examine my skin, hair, outfits, etc closely or at lengthy periods of time, know what I mean? I had hoped that you folks will see that instead of dwelling on the limitations, what I did was explore the opportunities, kept my mind and hands busy with other things and did my best to maintain a certain amount of normalcy. Then I focused on creatively visualising this very message.

Looking at myself at the end of the challenge, I can’t say my skin turned magically soft and smooth. Though I admit that the Dove Beauty Bar is one bar soap that I may consider using (I’m such a Dove fan) even after the challenge. My skin is softer and clearer than it was on previous weeks leading up to the period of the 7-Day No Mirror Challenge. But since I subjected my skin to not-so-normal sun and altitude (not to mention water with high mineral-content) plus the sick days, late nights and stress, I wasn’t really expecting outstanding results. Now, I’m actually thankful that Dove helped moisturise my skin all throughout.

As for needing a mirror like my life depended on it? No. Never have. Never will. But I can still appreciate it though! LOL.

I’d like to leave you with this small note that a guy (R) sent my way a few years ago —

“Scarred people are beautiful.”

Think about it.

Related Read:
DOVE 7-Day No Mirror Challenge: Day 1 and 2
DOVE 7-Day No Mirror Challenge: Day 3 and 4
Dove 7-Day No Mirror Challenge: The Mirror Days (An Epilogue)

Day 3 started out like any other Friday except there’s an added skip to my step since I was quite excited about the trip I’ll be taking the following day. Did most of the packing this day so I’d be ready to pick it up as soon as I get off work and head off to the rendezvous point in Madrigal, Alabang at 3am, Saturday.

As you can see, my hands were pretty much full the entire day, hence, the lack of footage. But I hope you’d let me make up for it on Day 4.

Now, Day 4 is quite different. Though I have to admit the idea of walking on rough terrain for an hour or so was a bit terrifying, the experience was exhilirating. I’m not exactly built to “rough it” but I wasn’t going to let it intimidate me more than the No Mirror Challenge did. I’ve always loved playing sports so I reckon I can handle it. Yea, no washing of face during the trek (just the occasional cooling off using the water from the stream) and just kept myself hydrated all throughout the hike up (and down) the crater. Twas also fantastic that I even got the chance to swim in the lake.

Check out the full clip of the trip:

More thoughts and photos about the trip here.

After four (4) days of not having to look at a mirror, I’ve come to realise that it’s more of a spiritual and psychological exercise than it being a breakthrough skincare regimen. I’m not counting on better skin after 7 days but a better view of that image reflected on the mirror when I see her again. I actually noticed that since I wore less or no makeup, I liked wearing white and simpler outfits. Getting ready was a breeze and my skin was less oily along the T-zone. But folks did notice that I looked tired. I guess, twas bad timing since it’s been stressful and I’m not getting enough rest (as you may have noticed in the videos as well).

Anyway, let’s see what sort of clip I’d be able to come up with for the remaining 3 days. Meanwhile, I’d love to hear what you think so far. Share your thoughts!

Related Read:
DOVE 7-Day No Mirror Challenge: Day 1 and 2
DOVE 7-Day No Mirror Challenge: Day 5, 6 and 7
Conquering Pinatubo With Style
Dove 7-Day No Mirror Challenge: The Mirror Days (An Epilogue)

Frankly, had I not been offered the role of ambassador to Dove’s latest campaign, I wouldn’t really volunteer to spend a week without looking at the mirror. Mirrors are already part of my daily routine. It’s not due to some narcissistic disorder but just your regular practical use. I need it for brushing my teeth and washing my face; for makeup application, hair style and final check of the chosen outfit for the day. I do have to step out of the house and be in Makati for work every day. Real problem, btw.

But since I’m such a curious little thing, I agreed to be briefed at Dome Cafe in Makati last week, 13 July 2010 and quickly got into the groove of things the next day. No choice, really. I didn’t have a hard time adjusting since I’m not too attached to my own reflection. I don’t spend hours in front of a mirror or checking my reflection whenever an opportunity presents itself. I guess, I’ve never been the sort. I don’t even brush my hair anymore (I’d just run my fingers through my hair, SRSLY).

My journey’s about to end, that’s why I chose to start publishing some of what I have on it. Some things I came across are questions on the technicalities of the challenge and others, the general curiosity on my having to go through daily beauty routines without a mirror. Honestly, it has been both fun and annoying. Fun because it has pushed me to explore certain things I haven’t considered trying and annoying because, at some point of the challenge, I had started feeling a little blech; imagining bushy eyebrows and warts. GAH. I am, however, thankful that I’ve got to see photos and videos along the way. LOL.

Here’s a small clip I put together of Day 1 and Day 2 for the 7-Day No Mirror Challenge. Technically, I’m on Day 7 today, you see.

Main technique on how I avoid looking at mirrors? Apart from often keeping my hands over my eyes whenever I pass by one (heh), er, I’ll show you at some point in another installment. Hehe.

Hope you folks enjoyed the clip. Let me know if you’re willing to take up the challenge. Or perhaps you can answer me this, “Can you go a day without looking at the mirror?” Surprises await for those who can do it and prove it.

Special thanks to Dove Philippines!

Related Read:
DOVE 7-Day No Mirror Challenge: Day 3 and 4
DOVE 7-Day No Mirror Challenge: Day 5, 6 and 7
Dove 7-Day No Mirror Challenge: The Mirror Days (An Epilogue)

One of the the more pressing concerns when the idea of “roughing it” was raised was, do I have a pair of shoes I can use that can withstand the rough trek up Mt Pinatubo? Dear me. You can liken shoes for me to water for a hiker, and this is not simply for vanity’s sake. Wearing the right sort of footwear for trips like these will prove to be vital in the caring of your beloved feet (my sore feet concurs). Good thing, I still have my trusty pair of Converse since I really didn’t have the time to go off shopping for a new pair of Sandugo sandals or something. I know, a pair of sneaks won’t really cut it but I’d prefer wearing that than a pair of Havaianas. Come on, be reasonable. There are certain situations wherein ladies should be more practical than worry about wearing the right look. If that’s something you really wouldn’t want to give up then I suggest you go book a hotel at some fancy beach resort and stay away from Mt Pinatubo. That’s one gem you’d chip your nail, scrape your knee, and sweat for. It’s not really for sissies. LOL.

The beauty of the place surpasses that of any fancy-schmancy resort with state of the art amenities. The magical experience can never be replaced by 3D films you’d watch in IMAX theaters. It’s historic and picture-perfect. Definitely one of the places that makes our country breathtakingly beautiful. You folks ought to do the Pinatubo Trek at least once in your life (before it erupts again, heh).

It’s often true that the more beautiful something is, the harder it is for us to reach. But when we do find ourselves in its presence, add the fact that you can really touch it, experience it, bask in it — all the difficulties leading up to it would simply melt away or at least would make better sense. Awesome, isn’t it?

Photos and video can be seen here: The Traveler: Mt. Pinatubo, Zambales, Philippines

Now for the outfit that I threw on in haste since I came from the office (after the 4-hour friggin’ long meeting that did a buzzer-beater on overtime), did a quick stop at home to change and pick up my stuff and head off to the pick up point for the van.

Top Mango
Shorts Mango
Shoes Converse
Sunnies Mango
Bandana (Something I dug up in my wardrobe)
Watch Hand me down from my sis

* Had my iPod and Flip Ultra (courtesy of DOVE Philippines cuz it’s to be used for my ambassador duties) in my hand while trying to let the stream cool my water bottle. Hehehe.

Fantastic that the “roughing it” trip fell on Day 3 of the DOVE No Mirror Challenge. But let’s save that story for another day, shall we?

Other clips for the Dove 7-Day No Mirror Challenge:
DOVE 7-Day No Mirror Challenge: Day 1 and 2
DOVE 7-Day No Mirror Challenge: Day 5, 6 and 7
Dove 7-Day No Mirror Challenge: The Mirror Days (An Epilogue)

Photo taken by Penny Rosario-Umali for Style Manila; Mt Pinatubo, Zambales, Philippines, July 2010

CLICK HERE or the image for a larger view

Twas at Preview Magazine’s annual Best-Dressed Ball that happened a couple of weeks ago at Republiq, Resorts World Manila. Answered to the query, “Do you have a twitter account?” then next thing was I had found myself in front of a camera, flash fired half a second later that momentarily blinded and disoriented me. There you go. The end of it. They said twas for a feature on Philippine Star’s YoungStar Section. Cool, I guess. Anything that can associate myself with youth. Ah, yes. Youth. Not that it’s a huge deal but I wouldn’t mind stretching it for all it’s worth. Heh.

Follow up question came via Twitter, of course. “Who are you online?” asks @YoungStarPhils. And a minute effort to answer such an existentialist question, I (@angelisophia)responded, “A distinct voice in fashion, beauty, shopping and lifestyle found at StyleManila.com.” Afterall, I have been more actively present as such than the rest of my so-called online personalities (Schizo much?).

Though, it’s agreeably apparent that I can babble and ramble until readers grow tired and restless. It’s pretty much impossible to bottle up a person’s persona with mere words (believe me, I’ve tried a thousand times). So, even when it can be said that Style Manila IS who I am online, I reckon it doesn’t stop there. It’s just one small part of it. For those who’ve known me online for the past few years, they can attest that I’m not pulling anyone’s leg. Inanities on fashion, beauty, shopping, yada yada yada are few of the things that show the fun side.

Anyway, let me throw these questions back at ‘ya dear Style Manila readers: Do YOU have a twitter account? (Naughty, if you do and have not told me — hint: @StyleManila HALLO!) And Who are you online? Looking forward to hear from y’all!

AND for those of you folks who’ve graciously stumbled upon my humble online abode aka as StyleManila.com via the Philippine Star mini-feature, WELCOME! I’m happy to have you visit me. Feel free to peruse and jump in on any of the conversations. We’re always happy to have someone new join us! I appreciate you for stopping by and I hope you do say hallo.

Thanks Paolo Lorenzana and the rest of Young Star of Philippine Star!

As I was headed towards Manila that late Sunday afternoon, my head was filled with hope that it was a great opportunity for me to get out of this fashion blogging slump that I’ve managed to find myself in. It’s been a while since I last took a photo for street fashion so I was gearing myself up to mix a bit of work in on my personal time. I’ve been guilty of working on a few other things over the weekend anyway so as I walk the planks that make up the deck resto in Manila Yacht Club, I kept my style eye open.

And I wasn’t disappointed.

Though distracted with all the food and singing all around, I managed to spot a pretty lass named Anne.

Twas the head band that caught my eye. I love the idea of wearing them but that’s all I’ve ever done — love the idea. It was a fun thing when Anne had let me try on hers, too bad my camera had to be all complicated, low-light and all. Ah, well. Next time? Perhaps.

The first thing that came to mind when I thought of going to Manila Yacht Club to celebrate the christening of Ajay’s lovely daughter, Lucy, was Resort Wear. Can’t miss the fact that Ajay decided on a nautical theme for the party and asked her guests to wear something blue or anything that’d work with the theme. So I was expecting deck shirts, dockers, nautical stripes and quite possibly bermuda shorts but yes, as most folks go when it comes to thematically dressing up, they’d often count themselves out. (For folks interested in what I wore, check it out here.)

Hence, my appreciation with the subtle lines and undertones of Anne’s own ensemble. Loose and casual, very Sunday brunch sorta look, pinstripe and cuffed worn over a pair of skinnies and a peep-toe wedge that kinda reminded me of espradilles. Her look quite matches the simplicity of the occasion but didn’t lack the extra oomph that would help qualify it as stylish. Her personal taste from this first encounter spells chic and confident.

Twas fantastic meeting you, Anne. Don’t be a stranger now, ok?

Warning: Press release ahead.

Lewis & Pearl Says: The Real You Rocks!

It’s not easy growing up. Things seem to transform overnight—priorities change, toys get old and boys get interesting, new responsibilities appear and clothes all of a sudden don’t fit right. Add to that the world’s expectations about how a girl is supposed to look, act and be, and you end up with a time of your life that seems less fun than it is frustrating.
Perfect is Boring!

One thing that all teenage girls should keep in mind though, is that nobody’s perfect–not the highest-paid movie star or the most in-demand supermodel. Everybody has their own little quirks - habits or traits that are unique to you. Teen star Miley Cyrus loves ketchup so much, she drinks it straight from the bottle! Even supermodel Tyra Banks has said that she was a “sick-looking beanpole” growing up. In fact, it’s a person’s quirks that make her interesting. It gives her something to laugh about with friends, endears her to the people who know her well, and makes her special.

Visit www.lewisandpearl.com

Lewis & Pearl believes that girls should be proud of their quirks, and have the confidence to let the world know all about her fabulously imperfect self!

The cologne brand’s newest campaign, called “The Real You Rocks!” highlights this message. The television ad, featuring an exciting young cast, celebrates the lead character Angel’s quirks. An innovative online campaign on www.lewisandpearl.com, Facebook and Friendster allows girls to shout out their quirks and have other users vote on them. There are also on-ground activities that encourage “barkadas” to proudly share their quirks with their friends. At stake for girls who tell others why they rock are Apple iPads and barkada mobile phones if their quirks are chosen by the community and by Lewis & Pearl.

With over a dozen different scents, Lewis & Pearl has a fragrance that will suit any girl’s quirky side. And with the easy freshness that its Colognes and Body Mists bring, any girl can find the confidence to be refreshingly real.

Find out more when you visit:

www.lewisandpearl.com
www.facebook.com/lewisandpearlcologne
http://widgets.friendster.com/lewisandpearl

Show how YOU rock by shouting out your quirks; and get a chance to win an Apple iPad.

Celebrity Quirks: Nobody’s Perfect!
Most people don’t know that Hillary Duff collects cookbooks, but has never used a recipe from any of them. And even the most hard-core of Twilight fans are probably unaware that hunky Robert Pattinson whistles while he walks—they just think he’s pouting!
The biggest stars have their quirks, but we still love them. The truth is that everyone does. Quirks—those little traits that only YOU have—are what make everybody who they are!

Lewis & Pearl, the leading cologne brand for teens, has gathered a list of stars and their quirks. Read on to learn what they are!
Teen superstar Miley Cyrus loves Heinz ketchup so much she drinks it straight from the bottle! On the Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Miley said “there’s nothing odd” about her unusual taste. “If it tastes good, what does it matter?” she said, adding, “It’s half the calories.”
There are a lot of Paparazzi photos of Robert Pattinson with his lips in a sexy pout. And that’s because he whistles while he walks! Many Twilight fans who’ve actually seen him do it thinks it’s very endearing.

“I hop like a bunny when I’m happy. I get a bit childlike,” said pop singer Katy Perry in the February issue of Glamour magazine.
Former The O.C. actress Rachel Bilson admitted to Cleo magazine that she has “lots of weird habits,” and the one she’s most embarrassed about is dancing by herself. Her fave music to dance to? Britney Spears!

Every time local TV host Bianca Gonzalez travels to a different city, she makes sure she takes home a personalized keepsake. “I collect cartwheel shots!” she told Candy magazine.

Nicole Kidman likes doing household chores! The Oscar winner revealed to People mag that she “loves putting clothes in the washing machine. I would always do the washing growing up—that was one of my jobs,” and added, “I quite like ironing shirts.”
Supermodels have perfect bodies, right? Well, Victoria’s Secret model Karolina Kurkova has literally no belly button. Her reps said her beauty quirk happened when she had an umbilical hernia during her childhood and her parents had it operated.

Filipina actress Iza Calzado is a cake monster! “I like to eat cake straight from the box without slicing it,” she told Inquirer’s Dolly Carvajal.
Kevin Jonas of the Jonas Brothers has an interesting favorite snack. “I’ve really gotten into celery with peanut butter. It’s one of the best things and it’s really healthy,” he told Candy.

Almost everybody wishes they had slim ankles. But not Jennifer Lopez. “People say they like thin ankles, but for me it’s always been a weird thing,” she told Candy about her body part that she’d like to change.

Superstar or not, your very own quirks are what make you extra special. Have the confidence to shout them out to the world with the freshness of Lewis and Pearl Cologne. Remember, the real you rocks!

Find out more when you visit:
www.lewisandpearl.com
www.facebook.com/lewisandpearlcologne
http://widgets.friendster.com/lewisandpearl

Show how YOU rock by shouting out your quirks; and get a chance to win an Apple iPad.

Fancy quirks and rocking out. Quite simple, yes? Let me know if you get around to joining or better yet if you get to win The iPad! Raffles are so much fun. Best of luck, folks!

First up is this adorable dress I bought on sale. Found in Promod’s “Nice Price” rack, a real steal at roughly around Php 600.00. (You can click on the photos for a larger view)

In photo (L to R): C, R, Mel of Imeldific and myself

It nestled in my wardrobe for a few weeks at first cuz I was waiting for the perfect opportunity to air it out then idea struck when I was mulling over what to wear for the wedding of my long-time friend Atty. R.M. II (LOL). Finally, this guy ties the knot (in the most lavishly expensive manner, mind you! Hahaha). This photo is a real favourite of mine. I can’t imagine that we’ve all known each other, save R, since we were 10. LOL. It’s odd looking at this photo when I also have this picture in my head on how we all look like when we were kids. Gah.

Dress PROMOD
Earrings Mum’s Pearls
Necklace PARVATTI Vintage (Neck piece is more like it! LURVE!)
(Not seen in photo)
Shoes VNC
Watch Hand me down from my sis
Ring Flea market

Next are the elusive photos of the birthday dress. With my hands full with hosting duties, I simply forgot to have my obligatory outfit photo taken. So I resorted to picnapping a couple, one from my friend T who managed to capture the dress up close somehow.

Me with bubbles (hehe)

This photo reminded me of how much I truly aged over the years. Gah. I don’t mind it really but sometimes I do forget my age and when it does hit me that I’m no longer as young as I’d want to be, it’s feels like I’m looking at a stranger.

And here’s another photo that my good friend P took using my camera.

Me with friends at my wine party held in Lusso, Greenbelt 5, Makati City

The birthday dress is the one that local fashion designer Kaye Olfindo made esp for me. Love the dress! I still owe Kaye a good photo of me wearing it. I wish I’d get the chance to wear it again. No luck so far, though.

Dress Kaye Olfindo
Earrings Diva Accessories
Necklace Lee Hwa Jewelry
Watch Hand me down from my sis
Bracelet Cuenca Bazaar seller
Ring Flea market
(Not seen in photo)
Shoes Chick Flick

Anyway, these are two of the more recent dresses I got myself and both worn last December 2009. I’m looking forward to more dresses this year and if you’re wondering, I still haven’t bought a new one to date. What I’ve bought mostly are tops, bags, jeans and accessories. I really need to schedule a shopping trip real soon. Sigh.

When it comes to shopping, I guess, I’m what you can call a traditionalist. I do prefer checking out the things I like in person. I like trying on shoes before taking out my wallet to pay for them. I love exploring boutiques, flea markets and, occasionally, ukay-ukay. That’s how I normally shop. I do, however, window shop online every now and then. But with all the browsing and looking I’ve done, I still can’t bring myself to truly embrace online shopping. I reckon, a few bad experiences with it have caused me to be wary, enough not to drop the norm and adapt with the new. I’m still open to the idea though. I’m just looking for the right place, an online store which can offer the very things I’m hoping to get from the whole shopping experience.

Specifically, as an online shopper, I’m looking for five (5) things which will convince me that it ain’t that bad:

Payment Options

The beauty of traditional shopping is that I don’t have to leave the store just to make a payment. And most local online sellers would only offer bank deposits or GCash as a payment method. Why don’t these people accept Paypal so that folks can pay using their credit cards? There were several instances wherein I was actually ready to buy several items from a number of online sellers but the idea of making time to hit the bank within a set period of time in order to guarantee that my order will be shipped is too much of a bother (no time to spare really) that I’d simply drop it and just schedule a trip to the mall on a weekend and shop there.

Buyer Protection

One of the things I’ve noticed is the lack of real buyer protection in most of the local online stores I’ve come across. Money-back guarantee? Tracking your order online? The technology simply isn’t there just yet. It’s still the typical direct sale done over the internet instead of the seller going door-to-door or placing orders over the phone because a friend’s friend is selling this or that. Buyers simply don’t have that option to truly shopping at their leisure without fear of losing their money or purchased item. We can only rely on comments left on the seller’s page or facts/rumors that get passed on through the online (or offline) grapevine. Sadly, we can only trust that somehow, some way our country will get to experience having an amazon or etsy-type of shopping portal which can offer more security to buyers.

Seller-Buyer Communication

Though most sellers would boast of their availability in communicating with their customers, I doubt it if they’d be able to address the needs of their shoppers as they are able to hit that buy now button. Some customers do need real-time assistance and a toll-free number would be awesome. We can’t really say that all customers will be as internet-savvy as the next person so it’s pretty much appreciated if the seller actually can offer numerous ways on how the buy can get in touch with them. If we’re talking about more than a thousand buyer-base, then the old email or sms communication feature won’t be as convenient to the buyer needing assistance nor to the seller who can’t be available 24/7. Did I make sense?

Shopper-oriented Features

I like shopping carts, transaction history, shopper profile, and suggested items. I like the idea that a site offers such features which make shopping there a little more personal. Making these data easily accessible will definitely make my online shopping experience a whole lot more better since, in some odd way, it makes me feel a little bit more in control of how I shop and what items I’d buy. These features make it easier to browse through catalogs and catalogs of inventory. I’d also love it if the site also has features which would allow me to share certain items with friends across other social sites I belong to like Facebook or Twitter. I like reading through reviews and comments on each item and not just those “is this still available sis?” sort of comments, know what I mean? Getting to read a sentence or two about the product I’m interested in will help in the decision making process.

Convenience

Ah, yes. Convenience is the bottomline. One of the key things which held me back in becoming the full-pledged online shopper that I know I can be capable of becoming is this very thing. If altogether the experience will not offer a convenient way of shopping, I’d haul my arse off to the mall instead. If the site offers less options, or payment would require me to go to the bank or pick up my mobile phone, or waiting for a response would mean checking my email or phone constantly only to find out that I’ll get it more than 24 hours after then shopping online there is not my cup of tea. Heck, if I had the time to go through all that trouble, then why not go to the mall instead? It’s actually great to explore flea markets, boutiques, or sale events simply because I get to do it with friends or might discover fabulous finds along the way. But we all know that we don’t have the time all the time, yes? So yea, even when I do have the money and I’m online most of the time, I can go for weeks and weeks (months even) not shopping since I don’t have the time and I haven’t encountered a site that convenience which would cause me to go back again and again. Unfortunate, really.

Online shopping in Manila or make that for the entire country, the Philippines, will gain more traction as we embrace this activity more. I’m sure we’ll soon find out that there’s a site, an online seller or an online shopping portal, which will offer the very things I’ve enumerated above. There are thousands and thousands of online buyers raring to go shop online given the right service offering. Or am I over-reaching here? Maybe it’s best if you folks tell me what you think.

Are you a happy online shopper? What sort of things do you look for in an online store? What sort of features do you look for? What are the common issues you encounter which prevents you from buying something online? What sort of items would you buy online which aren’t available?

Please do share your thoughts. I’d love to hear them! I’d love to talk more about these things with you.

Related Read: Note to Online Shoppers