The 9th Philippine Tatler Ball

Nov 20, '10 11:23 PM
for everyone

Mabuhay!

Once a year, my husband and I get dressed up fancy for the Philippine Tatler Ball. It's one of the most exciting events of the year and we're privileged to be part of it.

The 9th Philippine Tatler Ball was held at Makati Shangri-la Hotel

I wish I memorized the speech of former ambassador to Spain, Ambassador Bernardo because in my opinion, he nailed what the ball was all about. Mr. Bernardo talked about how the Philippine Tatler Ball is an event of glitz, glamour, and sometimes "excess", yet it is also an affair that is about giving back and raising money for charity. He said that in the end, it's what life is all about—balance. His parting words were sincere and inspiring: "To those who have more, much more is expected."

Tom and I would like to congratulate Philippine Tatler's managing director Irene Francisco-Martel, editor-in-chief Anton San Diego, and the Philippine Tatler team for a successful and fabulous ball!

And now, for some glitz, glamour, and more!

I wore all-Filipino for the ball!

Thank you portion:

For this year's Tatler ball, I wanted to channel my mom's look from the 60's! Very 'Mad Men'! LOL! I have to thank Shu Uemura's Patrick Alcober for my makeup and Rey for my fab modern bouffant!

My evening wear was by my friend and fab designer, Jun Escario. Incidentally, he also made my gown for the ball last year! This time, Jun created a black silk chiffon cocktail dress with a tail. I only saw my dress on the afternoon of the ball. I was happily surprised by the unexpected length, beautiful bell-sleeves, and the dramatic tail! I super love my retro outfit! Thank you, Jun! I love you!

I got tons of great compliments from friends and Twitter followers for my look! Nix Alanon did a double-take before he recognized me! Haha! Raymond Gutierrez was "mesmerized" with my look! He is the sweetest! Ferdie Salvador said I looked like a young doyenne (Haha! I lav et!) Ricky Toledo and Chito Vijandre told me that my look reminded them of vintage "Yves Saint Laurent" (wow, didn't even know that!) But the best complement I got was from Tom and Aryanna, they said I looked HOT! Aww... *sniffles*

Arnel Papa neckpiece

Since I was only able to fit my dress the last minute (Jun and I have been busy the last few weeks), I didn't realize that I needed some major accessories to complete my look! If you're following me on Twitter, you would know that I was panicking on what neckpiece to wear! Haha!

Thank God accessories designer Arnel Papa's shop was near Jun Escario's boutique at the second floor of Greenbelt 5. When it comes to statement accessories, Arnel Papa is the go-to designer!