ShopCrazy

It’s not quite Nora vs. Vilma, Pacquiao vs. Morales, or even Kapuso vs. Kapamilya, but in the world of ShopCrazy, these are the stars we would toss into the mosh pit for entertainment. Manila became a lot better-dressed since these three came to town, but alas, we do love our petty rivalries, don’t we? So, here goes:

(Dear Topshop/Zara/Mango: We’re just playing, okay? Don’t hate us. Love, ShopCrazy)

The British are coming . . . again. In the wake of Topshop, Dorothy Perkins, and Wallis comes Warehouse, another staple of British high-street fashion. Ever at your service, ShopCrazy floated over to the store opening yesterday to pick out some nice items for your consideration. But first, what makes Warehouse different from Topshop, Dorothy Perkins, and Wallis?

Three things:

1. Their motto is “Design for the high street.” (That means designer quality at high-street prices. Warehouse puts a lot of emphasis on the democratization of fashion, so quality can be accessible to all. Lovely thought, though we must point out that “affordable” is a relative term. A Big Mac in London costs three times its price in Manila. Purchasing power parity and all that.)

2. They say “styley” instead of “stylish.” (That sounds better than our moms saying “spooting”, don’t you think? Is that how you spell it? S-p-o-o-t-i-n-g? Where did this word come from, anyway?)

3. Topshop, Dorothy Perkins, and Wallis belong to the same parent company in the UK, while Warehouse is owned by another group. (But in the Philippines, they’re all managed by the same group called . . . can you guess?)

Click on the jump to see more goodies you can buy at Warehouse this weekend. We picked out a lot of things for you, so don’t forget to keep clicking “next page” at the bottom of the screen. The purses on the last page are fabulous and fairly priced

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EARLY CHRISTMAS SURPRISE! Up to 70% off on designer fragrances, such as Guess, Paris Hilton, Perry Ellis, Mango, Swiss Army, Ferrari, Moschino, Morgan, and a lot more. Enjoy an extra 5% discount on cash purchases. October 13-21, 2006 from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm. G/F ITC Building, Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue (formerly Buendia), Makati City. For inquiries, contact them at 899-7783 or 899-7784.

I recently attended a bridal shower and was totally amused by this centerpiece. (Click here to view picture) It was a big table arrangement filled with colorful condoms, interestingly-shaped chocolate lollipops, bonbons, and other treats. Turns out, two of the guests made it and gave it as a gift for the bride-to-be. The two guests are Kim Ng and Jinky Tobiano, and they are proud owners of Candy Bouquet.

Candy Bouquet is a franchise from the U.S., and the company is known for making edible flower arrangements. Although there are set designs, each bouquet can be custom-made according to the occasion or the client’s budget. You can even provide your own treats, pot/container, and other trinkets, and have them arranged by Candy Bouquet. You just need to pay for labor and materials.

Of course, nothing compares to the sight and scent of fresh flowers, but I wouldn’t mind receiving a candy bouquet either. In fact, wouldn’t it be nice to be the guest with the most exciting present? After the party, everyone enjoyed taking home pieces from the kinky bouquet.

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LA ELEGANCIA Sale, up to 40% off selected gold items. Until October 29, 2006. Glorietta 4.

OCAMPO Jewellery Sale, until October 31, 2006. Robinsons Galleria.

VENICE JEWELLERS Sale, up to 50% off, until October 29, 2006. 2/L SM Megamall A.

MENDREZ Sale, 10-50% off all items. October 13-31, 2006. SM Megamall.

MINT Sale, Everything P250. October 13, 2006 until supplies last. 2/L SM Megamall A.

SCHU Sale, up to 40% off selected items. Extended until October 20, 2006. Robinsons Galleria.

KARIMADON Sale, up to 70% off. October 13-28, 2006. SM Megamall.