Looking good starts with feeling good

hi ms. lucy!

We just would like to say that you were such a goddess in your gown by Randy Ortiz at the 2005 Urian Awards. You were so lovely! We also would like to ask what materials were used for that gown. My cousin likes to have that style for our cousin’s debut. Could you suggest other colors that we could mix up for that kind of gown?

We just can’t get enough of the gown ... really! Could you also give us some tips on how to look great – just like you – on occasions like parties, debuts, etc.?

KAREN

I asked Randy Ortiz what his inspiration for that gown was and he said it was his own take on Grecian boho. He incorporated classic elements like the twisted, finely pleated straps, the draped silhouette, and he threw in an unusual color combination of aqua, brown, and mustard. He used generous swaths of chiffon for that creation.

Randy Ortiz can be reached at 922-8375.

There are lots of other possible color combinations, depending on your skin tone, your personality and, of course, the occasion. If I were you though, I would stay away from a tired, overused play of safe colors and opt instead for the unusual. Just make sure that the colors you choose work well together.

For special nights when you want to look your best, the feeling has to start from within. Mainly, you have to be confident about what you are wearing and it has to fit beautifully for you to feel good. Start with a canvas of clean, smooth skin – especially if you are wearing a gown that bares your arms or your back, have a body scrub. Slather on some lotion and oil after. Get a manicure and pedicure the day before. Unless you can do it really well, have your hair and makeup done professionally. A very good hair and makeup stylist is Lala Flores (0917-8220116). She can make anyone look beautiful, trust me. Wear nice underwear (yes, that, too, matters).

Slip on a pair of sexy shoes, tote a pretty evening bag that matches your dress. And don’t forget to smile. Once you step into the party, forget about your dress and simply enjoy the night and all it has to give you.

LUCY

* * * ‘Help, My Hair Gel Does Not Gel!’

DEAR TINGTING,

I always use a wet-look type of hair gel to style my hair. But instead of keeping it fixed, it turns out so flaky and oily. Could you recommend a hair gel that will not cause flakes and oil buildup on my hair? Also, can you tell me the difference between a gum and a hair gel?

EBENEZER

Gum is a cream-based pomade that hardens hair. Hair gel is a gelatinous preparation that hardens the hair with extra hold but is a bit sticky. Try Splash.

TINGTING

* * * Wanted: Spot Remover

DEAR MARY,

I’m having a huge problem with the really dark spots left by flea bites. I love dogs so much, and when my friend brought her cute puppies at my place, I didn’t know that they had fleas. I got a lot of bites all over my legs, thighs, and arms. I have really fair skin and I’m so ashamed of wearing shorts and skirts because of these ugly spots. Do you know of any way I can make them disappear, aside from going to an expensive derm clinic? My lola said I should put sebo de macho or rub calamansi on it, but none of them worked. I dunno what to do anymore.

ZURI

Clarins has a good spot remover called Spot. There’s also Chanel’s Precision Spot Remover, both available at Rustan’s

MARY

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