Ensembles Wear My Design’ Competition + Solo Summer x Online Model Contest Winners

Would you like to see your very own design displayed at Ensembles? It can happen! Ensembles just recently unveiled the 8 Winning Spring Dresses 2014 now gracing the racks of every Ensembles branch nationwide! This April, the competition starts again in search of  the next 5 winning Spring Dresses of 2015, open in two categories of Soft OR Tailored.

 If you have an eye for fashion, then this is definitely for you! All you have to do is submit a dress prototype of your design together with an application form downloaded from Ensembles Facebook page. Contest starts at April 1 to May 31st, 2014!  All submitted entries will be uploaded at Ensembles’ Facebook page for voting. Each winner will receive a cash prize and gift certificates from Ensembles, plus special gift packs from our wonderful partners VMV Hypoallergenics and Piandre Salon. Winning entries will also be featured in the Spring 2015 Collection with the designers’ names credited on the hashtags.

Your spring dress design maybe the one unveiled next year! 

Learn more about ‘Wear My Design’ Competition mechanics and rules at http://www.ensembles.com.ph. Like Ensembles Facebook page (facebook.com/EnsemblesOnline).  Follow Ensembles on Twitter and Instagram @EnsemblesOnline.

Summer is slowly kicking in!  Are you ready? No fuss! Solo's Summer Collection 2014 is up to complete your summer essentials and set your summer vibes high! Solo's Summer Collection 2014 is composed of widerange swim wear pieces that cater to different types of young.

Boasting variety of looks for Him and Her such as tribal prints, floral patterns, retro feels, and solid colors strategically placed on bandeau, bikini tops and high waisted bottoms creating fun statement, the Summer Collection 2014 is sure to tick off your checklist complete with flattering cover ups and stylish eyewear for ladies and gents to complement the hot season!

The hot collection features this year’s Solo Online Model Contest Grand Winners, Renee Soraya Hassani and John Edward Custodio who stood out among almost a hundred hopeful ladies and gents! The pair got to do a photo shoot directed and photographed by hot fashion photog Doc Marlon. 

 

Renee, 22 recently finished Interior Design at Philippine School of Interior Design, now part of their family business and still wants to pursue modeling, an unlikely path for her, while John Edward, 21 is set to fulfill his dreams of being an actor by venturing to a strong stepping stone which is modeling. When asked about the experience, both quipped that they learned a lot from Doc Marlon and were very inspired to improve their craft and be the face of Solo to the youth. “I want to contribute among the wide varieties of beauty our world has come to define today,” Renee said.

No matter how challenging the path to their dreams is, these two still showed genuine interest and willingness to learn from the best and leave a mark to today’s generation along with the brand that fits their street-smart and quirky personality; these two are epitomes of a Solo lady and gent ready to take over the summer sun, sand and the world. 

 

Make sure to brush those summer jitters away and conquer the hot season in tribal or floral prints fromthis year’s one-stop summer shop! Too busy? Shop online, it’s easy and reliable!

For more information, please log on to solo.com.ph or like our Facebook page facebook.com/mysoloonline. You can also follow us on Twitter and Instagram @MySoloOnline.

Vania Romoff for Ensembles’ Young Designer Series Holiday 2013

Can't believe that Ensembles is now on its 5^th year, with another budding fashion designer for its Young Designer Series 2013. Ensembles is all about the strong and independent woman with a style that’s fashion forward yet elegant.  That’s why this year’s collaboration with Vania Romoff is a perfect match. With her designs being predominantly classic and feminine, Vania’s design aesthetic is definitely fit for an Ensembles woman. 

Her collection is a variety of tops, dresses and jumpsuits featuring easy to wear pieces and key classics that are both functional and chic at the same time. As for the silhouettes, it is a showcase of simplistic lines and basic shapes flattering to a woman’s curves which is one of the highlights of Vania’s design persona. The collection is also a multitude of different trends and styles such as color blocking, prints and soft drapes presented in mostly subtle colors and neutrals, all capturing a woman’s grace, maturity and charm.

 

A fresh take on vintage was the highlight of the campaign shoot for Vania’s collection, complete with a classic yet fun styling featuring shoes from Janilyn. Described by Vania herself as a fresh yet timeless collection, her pieces will surely capture the attention of women of all sorts. 

Whether it is worn in the office, a smart casual affair or on a simple lovely day out, Vania’s pieces will definitely bring out any woman’s confidence and highlight their beauty. The Young Designer Series 2013 Collection featuring Vania Romoff is set to release in Ensembles stores nationwide this September!

More about Vania Romoff

Vania Romoff is one of the leading designers of today’s generation which is why it’s no surprise she is this year’s chosen one for Ensembles’ Young Designers Series. Born and raised in a family of designers and fashion-savvy individuals, the 24 year old Cebuana grew up around fashion. Vania’s grandmother was the first couturier in Cebu while her mother is a garment manufacturer and her brother a designer as well. “I would say it’s very much a part of me, more than it is a chosen career or interest.” Vania studied Business Entrepreneurship at the Center for International Education in Cebu but learned and developed her fashion skills at School of Fashion of the Arts. As for her design aesthetic, it’s all about being feminine and classic. “Clean lines, flattering silhouettes and a quiet, yet fresh elegance are consistent in my designs making each piece somehow a modern classic”, Vania said. Her fashion forward yet timeless creations have garnered continuous praise from the eyes of fashion critics and the rest of the industry, making her one of the most sought after designers, especially with female clientele. Establishing herself as a legitimate designer in Manila is considered by Vania as one of her greatest achievements. “The thought that women trust me with creating pieces for them is an achievement in itself.” When asked about where she gets inspiration for designing, Vania pointed out that there is no formula for inspiration. “It is taken from everywhere that evokes personal vision or creativeness”, Vania shared. Among the list of people she admired, she named Inno Sotto and Jun Escario, both renowned Filipino designers, as her icons.

When asked about her collaboration with Ensembles, Vania pointed out that she considered two things. Fisrt, the pieces should be wearable and relatable and second, her designs should stay true to her design aesthetic while still reflecting the brand’s persona. “For my collaboration with Ensembles, I wanted to just go back to the basic silhouettes. All together the collection is fresh yet timeless and lives beyond the season.”

For more information, please log on to ensembles.com.ph or visit their Facebook page facebook.com/EnsemblesOnline. You may also follow them on Twitter and Instagram @EnsemblesOnline.

ENSEMBLES Wear My Design Contest Year 2

Calling all aspiring designers! Have you ever dreamed of having your designs being sold in Ensembles stores nationwide?  Following the success of the first WEAR MY DESIGN Competition last year where 5 winning dresses comprised Ensembles' Spring 2013 Collection, the innovative brand is ecstatic to announce the next installation of this much anticipated contest starting on May 1 to June 30, 2013!

 If you have an eye for fashion and a creative mind, then this is definitely for you! All you have to do is submit a dress prototype of your design together with an application form. All submitted entries will be uploaded to Ensembles’ Facebook page for voting. Winning entries will be featured in the Spring Dresses 2014 Collection. Five lucky ladies have already gotten their dreams come true with the last year’s contest. The dresses sold very well with customers having their own faves. Who knows, maybe it’s your time to shine!

There will be 8 grand winners. Each winner will receive cash and gift certificates from Ensembles, plus Special Gift packs from our wonderful partners VMV Hypoallergenics and Piandre Salon. Each winner shall also be given one produced dress of his/her design (in his/her choice of color and size.) The winning pieces will be reproduced by Ensembles for the Wear My Design 2014 Spring Dresses Collection and the name of the grand winners will be featured on the Ensembles Wear My Design hangtag. 

To join Ensembles’ Wear My Design Contest:

Step 1: Want to see your design in a collection? This maybe your chance! Visit and download the Contest Mechanics at http://ensembles.com.ph/ or get a “Wear My Design” application form from any Ensembles store for detailed guidelines.

Step 2: Applicant should submit an originally designed DRESS prototype suited to Ensembles’ style for its Spring Dresses 2014 Collection together with the application form. Prototype submission must be sent to Marketing Dept. of Elite Garments International Inc. at 996 Pablo Ocampo Sr. Street Malate Manila from May 1 to June 30, 2013.

Step 4: Wait for Ensembles to upload your dress on facebook. Once uploaded, invite your friends to vote for your entry. Voting is from July 1, 2013 – July 31, 2013 and counts for 10% of the criteria. Be creative and have fun! No experience necessary. You may have your designed dress produced with your name credited as its designer!

Wear My Design Mechanics:

1. Individuals must read the Terms and Conditions / Mechanics of this promotion before participating in the contest. Joining in the activity means that the Participant has read and agreed to the Terms and Conditions.
2. Ensembles has the right to use or publish all submitted materials (sample, text and photographs) under the company’s discretion to promote the program, publicize the activities of Ensembles, and etc.
3. Contest is from May 1, 2013 – June 30, 2013. Submission of entries will be accepted only until June 30, 2013. Voting starts July 1, 2013 and ends on July 31, 2013.
4. Contestant can be Male or Female, residing in the Philippines, and has a knack for designing clothes. No experience necessary, just a love for Ensembles’ style.
5. Contestant must fill up the application form, available at all ENSEMBLES stores or can be downloaded from the ENSEMBLES website: http://www.ensembles.com.ph/, and LIKE the Ensembles page on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/EnsemblesOnline. Applicant should submit an originally designed prototype DRESS suited to Ensembles’ style and market for the Wear My Design 2014 Spring Dresses Collection (A sketch of the item is optional). It should be in Size Small or Medium. Dress prototype can only be sent to Elite Garments Int’l. Inc. at 996 Pablo Ocampo St., Malate, Manila (Marketing Department) on or before June 30, 2013. The collection piece should adhere to the image of the Ensembles woman: feminine yet strong, and independent.
6. There can be more than 1 submission per applicant as long as each entry has its own individual application form but an applicant can win only once in the duration of the contest. Please make your description short and precise.
7. The collection should be the contestant’s ORIGINAL design and concept, but he/she may opt to have his/her designs sewn by a seamstress. Contestants are NOT allowed to buy an existing garment, make alterations and submit as entry.
8. Every submission will be screened and researched by Ensembles Team. If submission is proven copied and/or stolen, the contestant will be disqualified.
9. During screening, Ensembles has the right not to post entries which do not follow the guidelines set, or those which do not adhere to Ensembles' image. See Mechanics Item numbers 5, 6, 7 and 8 for guidelines. The applicant will be notified whether his/her entry has been approved or not. If entry does not meet ALL the requirements, it will be disapproved.
10. Ensembles will be the one to take photos and upload on Ensembles’ Facebook Wear My Design App within 7 business days upon receipt of the item. This app can be seen when you click the Wear My Design Tab under Ensembles’ cover photo. Voting will be enabled on July 1, 2013.
11. Anyone who has a Facebook account and a fan of Ensembles’ on Facebook may vote. To go to the Voting App, log in to your account, go to Ensembles' Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/EnsemblesOnline) and click the Wear My Design Gallery & Voting Tab. Make sure to click LIKE on the Ensembles’ Facebook page in order to vote. Click the check box to vote for your favorite entry. Only one vote per entry per person, but you can vote for as many entries as you want.
12. Winners will be judged according to the following criteria: 30% for Originality/Creativity, 30% for Wearability, 30% Brand Relevance and 10% app votes for a total of 100% and will be held at  Elite Garments International office, 996 Pablo Ocampo Sr. St., Malate, Manila
13. There will be 8 grand winners. Each winner will receive Php 8,000 cash and Php 8,000 Ensembles gift certificate plus Special Gift packs from our wonderful partners VMV Hypoallergenics and Piandre Salon. Each winner shall also be given one produced dress of his/her design (in his/her choice of color and size.) The winning pieces will be reproduced by Ensembles for the Wear My Design 2014 Spring Dresses Collection, but there may be slight revisions to the actual product (to improve fit and marketability). The name of the grand winners will be featured on the Ensembles Wear My Design hangtag.
14. Non-winning pieces may be picked up at the Elite Garments Int’l. Inc. office: 996 Pablo Ocampo Sr. St., Malate, Manila.
15. Gift certificates are not convertible to cash and are valid until fully consumed.
16. Judging of grand winners will be held at 4:30pm on August 14, 2013, at the Elite Garments Int. Inc. office, 996 Pablo Ocampo Sr. St., Malate, Manila. Last day of voting on Facebook is on July 31, 2013 at 3PM.
17. A DTI representative will be present during the determination of winners.
18. The  winners will be notified through phone, email and registered mail.
19. Prizes shall be claimed at the Elite Garments Int’l. Inc. office, 996 Pablo Ocampo Sr. St., Malate, Manila. For provincial winners, prizes shall be claimed at the nearest Ensembles store or from stores of any sister brands Freeway and Solo.
20. Redemption of prizes is within 60 days from date of notification. Prizes not claimed within sixty (60) days shall be forfeited with prior DTI approval.
21. When claiming the prizes, the winners must present the registered notice plus two (2) valid ID’s.
22. Elite Garments International Inc. shall shoulder the 20% tax issued for prizes exceeding P10,000.
23. All employees of Elite Garments International Inc. and their relatives up to the second degree of consanguinity or affinity are disqualified from joining the contest.
24. You can email marketing@elitegarments.com with e-mail subject “Wear My Design Inquiry” or call (+632) 5250862 for any additional questions.

Learn more about ‘Wear My Design’ Competition at www.ensembles.com.ph. Like Ensembles Facebook page (facebook.com/EnsemblesOnline).  Follow Ensembles on Twitter and Instagram @EnsemblesOnline.

lovelove,

Shopgirl Jen

Summer Sale up to 70% OFF at Freeway, Ensembles & Solo

Our favorite brands Freeway, Ensembles & Solo are having a SUMMER SALE upto 70% discount nationwide!

Mark your calendars now! Starting March 15 to 31, 2013. Enjoy shopping with prices at p99 to 599 and more! What a better way to start our Summer! 

Follow them on Twitter for more details:

Freeway: @FreewayOnline

Ensembles: @EnsemblesOnline

Solo: @MySoloOnline

Happy Shopping!

lovelove,

Shopgirl Jen

Outfit Diary: Red and Monochrome

dress: Bazaar

accessories: Girlshoppe

clutch: c/o Ensembles

shoes: People Are People

Attended a debut party of my inaanak two weeks ago. Can't believe I have an 18 year old inaanak, I feel too old! Hahaha! :D 

Anyway, I've been cleaning my closet for the past weeks (and until now I'm not yet finish, lol) and I saw this never worn dress that I have since last year. Good thing it was a black and white party and I paired the dress with my People Are People heels . Used a red clutch to break the monochromatic look. And how I love my new envelope red clutch bag -thanks to Ensemble. 

And I love Sofi's outfit here. It's a Grecian inspired dress, so I decided to put a gold hair accessory on her hair. She felt pretty that day kasi daw she looked like a princess, hehe :D

lovelove,

Shopgirl Jen

Ensembles by Chris Diaz

Ensembles is an epitome of empowered women fashion – individualistic and sophisticated. The retail brand never fails to provide its customers a well-rounded collection as Ensembles continues to collaborate with today’s most celebrated fashion designers through its Young Designer Series. The collaboration aims to create something truly unique but will still be very much Ensembles – a perfect balance of wearability and artistry – versatile and timeless pieces that can be worn to work or on the weekend, just as easily.  Now on its 4^th installment, Ensembles welcomes fashion designer Chris Diaz to take part in this year’s Holiday Collection of Ensembles’ Young Designers’ Series.  The past collections featured James Reyes, Debbie Co, Louis Claparols and Choc & Yvette Religioso.

Chris Diaz was first catapulted into the Manila fashion industry after becoming a finalist in the 2002 MEGA Young Designers Competition. He has been labeled as a “Romantic” Designer because of his trademark fascination with feminine frills, lace and floral.  With Chris Diaz on board, romanticism takes center stage in the form of lace, soft fabrics and color blocking.  “I’m very excited with this collaboration! There’s a lot for everyone – a balance of feminine silhouette and use of romantic element and a smart range of color blockings that will flatter everyone!”, Chris Diaz shared when asked to talk about the collaboration.

This 17 piece collection includes standout dresses and blazers, flattering tops in chiffon and poplin, dresses and skirts all grounded in different treatments such as lovely laces, colorblocking and soft fabrics – representing a woman that is romantic and effortlessly chic. Diaz understands what women want to wear and which elements can flatter the body. 

Get ready to shop early for holiday fashion as collection will hit Ensembles stores in September!

About Chris Diaz

Chris Diaz discovered his passion for fashion design during his high school years.  He’d be making designs for friends and a few teachers and was involved in the production as well.  After high school, fate and luck lead him to work for a wonderful lace manufacturer that started his love for laces which then became his design aesthete.  “Fashion schooling was not an option as times were hard then.  I just slowly worked on becoming one while I studied and worked as an interior designer.”  Being a finalist of MEGA Young Designers Competition in 2002 gave him a firm first step in the fashion industry.

“Fashion is an expression, a wearable art”. Finding your own design identity was never easy.  Chris Diaz’ affinity with all things feminine and romantic led him to his specific style.  His fascination with feminine frills, lace and floral has been his trademark thus magazines and reviews consistently dubbed him as a “romantic” designer. “It will be my default design DNA.”

Diaz once won in Malaysia International Fashion Awards as the Best Evening Wear Designer.  “On top of the award and recognitions, happy and satisfied clients and the ability to share my blessings through my craft are my greatest achievements.”

Here is the rest of our interview with Chris Diaz.

E: If you weren’t a fashion designer, what would you be?

CD: Interior Decorator or probably a florist!

E: How do you spend your time on aside from designing?

CD: I’m slowly decorating my place right now.

E: What’s your happy pill?

CD: Counting my blessings, best reality-check ever. And be around positive, loving and supportive people.

E: How will you spend your Holidays?

CD: I’ll spending holidays with family and loved ones.

Ensembles by Chris Diaz Holiday 2012 collection boasts a perfect balance of wearability and artistry.  The collection pays homage to Diaz’ design aesthete – lace.  With Chris Diaz on board, romanticism takes center stage in the form of lace, soft fabrics and color blocking.  This 17 piece collection includes standout dresses and blazers, flattering tops in chiffon and poplin, dresses and skirts all grounded in different treatments such as lovely laces, colorblocking and soft fabrics – representing a woman that is romantic and effortlessly chic.

Ensembles’ celebrity endorser Carmina Villarroel loved the pieces that she wore from the collection during its campaign photoshoot, “I personally love the dress with lace panel but I super like the entire collection, from the colors selection, the design, the fabrics –versatile yet very sophisticated.”  Carmina and the theme of the collection – romanticism – are a perfect fit.  Despite her very busy schedule having primetime soap, a talk show, running her business and with so many endorsements under her belt, her aura radiates nothing but bliss and love.  Her bubbly personality and a very happy married and family life are her ultimate secrets.  “I am very blessed I have the best of both worlds, a great family and career. “ The foiled proposal plan of Zoren to Carmina during their recent Japan trip was revealed to public and Carmina admitted that she truly appreciated her partner’s effort to make the trip memorable and said that they are already planning to wed very soon.  Like most every one of us, Carmina was affected with the recent calamity “Our home was flooded during the Habagat, but not as bad as Ondoy.  We had to stay in the hotel for few days but thank God we’re all safe”.  But there’s always rainbow after the rain, her primetime teleserye Lorenzo’s Time was a nationwide hit, high TV ratings and continues to win the hearts of viewers with its beautiful story and effective cast.

Carmina will be spending holidays with her family and hopefully some travel since she and her family loves to travel. 

Ensembles and Carmina Villarroel are an epitome of empowered and fulfilled women.  See the artistic interpretation of Chris Diaz with its Holiday 2012 capsule collection for Ensembles.  

Also, check out Behind the scenes video of Holiday 2012 Collection shoot featuring Ms. Carmina Villarroel.

For more information about Ensembles by Chris Diaz Young Designer Series Holiday 2012, please visit www.ensembles.com.ph.  Like on facebook.com/EnsemblesOnline and follow on Twitter twitter.com/EnsemblesOnline, Pinterest pinterest.com/EnsemblesOnline and Instagram @EnsemblesOnline.

Happy Shopping!

lovelove,

Shopgirl Jen

KASHA.com.ph: Your newest online shopping destination

Your newest online shopping destination: KASHA.com.ph

You asked for it, we delivered! The long wait is finally over! Your favorite Filipino retail brands Freeway, Ensembles and Solo officially open its online shop through Kasha www.kasha.com.ph.  

Kasha.com is the online equivalent of browsing the racks of your fave brand stores.  Kasha brings together the most loved special collections, the most wanted items and signature apparel and accessories allowing users to cross-shop from Freeway, Ensembles and Solo – all in one place!

It’s all bout fit!

Kasha was coined from the Filipino word kasya, which means fit. One of the most frustrating aspects of online shopping for clothes is not knowing how they will fit. Now, choosing the right fit couldn't be easier with Kasha "It's all about fit" – with its commitment to ensure that whatever item you order from the site fits you.  Every piece of clothing found on the site provides actual measurements unlike most other online clothing retailers that simply give a standard size chart that might not be accurate for every single item. 

Convenient, simple and safe online shopping

Kasha provides free return shipping for a change in size in case the clothing does not fit you despite all the measurements provided. Credit Card, Bank Deposit and GCash payment methods are available and a flat rate of P100 shipping fee applies no matter how many items you order!

Explore the links below to learn more about different aspects of Kasha!

• Fit Guide – the sizing illustration to ensure you do the correct measuring plus tips on getting the right measurement!
• Wish Lists – create your own wishlist and share it on your Facebook and Twitter. Who knows your friends or family or even us might just surprise you!
• Product Reviews – shoppers can comment and write a review on each product
• FAQs – read on the frequently asked questions
• Contact Us –get in touch with us for your questions and comments

GRAND OPENING SALE FOR EARLY BIRDS!

As a welcome treat to early online shoppers, KASHA is offering 20%OFF until July 15 only!

Stay tuned to these channels for the announcement of the start date of Registration:

FREEWAY                    www.freeway.net.ph | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest

ENSEMBLES                 www.ensembles.com.ph | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest

SOLO                           www.solo.com.ph | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest

For more updates, follow me on:

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram-itsshopgirljen

Have a great week!

lovelove,

Shopgirl Jen

I Heart SALE: Freeway, Ensembles & Solo

Good News!! Our favorite brands like Freeway, Ensembles & Solo are having a Mid-Year SALE!

More Good News? The SALE will be up to 70% off!!

Mid Year Sale will start on July 1 until August 5! Yay! :))

Mark your calendars and Happy Shopping!!

lovelove,

Shopgirl Jen

Join Wear my Design Contest from Ensembles

Time’s a ticking – you have until June 30 to submit your dress creations for Ensembles’ first ever Wear My Design contest!  Ensembles has been receiving beautiful designs! Yours can still be one of them. All designers and aspiring ones, don’t miss out on this chance to break into the world of fashion.  No experience necessary, all that is needed is your love for Ensembles style.

The winning designers will not only receive the satisfaction of seeing their garments produced by Ensembles as part of its Spring 2013 Dresses Collection and worn by others, but they will also receive cash prizes, gift certificates, generous gifts from our partners like VMV Hypoallergenics, Piandre Salon and Bo's Coffee. Plus features on broadsheets and various social media outlets.

Title: Futuristic Spring

Designed by: Michelle Sarmiento

Description: Black & gray satin dress with gray belt

Title: Under The Sun

Designed by: Ruth Lane Dela Pena

Description: Chiffon waved chest with sweetheart dress & detachable sleeves

 Title: Working Girls

Designed by: Ivan Ruiz

Description: Cream & black pencil cut dress tailored with bold pink chiffon at the hem

Deadline of submission is on June 30. All approved submissions will be uploaded to Ensembles Facebook Page for voting which is 10% of the criteria. Ensembles fans will get to decide which of the entries have sparked their interest the most! Voting period is July 1 to 14.

Learn more about Wear My Design contest here www.ensembles.com.ph. Like their facebook www.facebook.com/EnsemblesOnline or follow them on  www.twitter.com/EnsemblesOnline and www.pinterest.com/EnsemblesOnline.

Trust me, you don't want to miss out. Go for it!

Have a great weekend! :)

lovelove,

Shopgirl Jen