MAYBELLINE Make-up Madness SALE!

WHO DOESN'T LOVE Maybelline?!

I think most of the girls out there are rejoicing because of the Maybelline's Make-up Madness Sale! All of their best-sellers are a hundred bucks off! plus, 50% off on their dream liquid mousse :) Yay!

Maybelline New York in the Philippines is the host of Maybelline's Make-up Madness Sale 2015. This make-up line has been one of the front liners in the beauty industry. I've been using and loving their products for quite some time now, so I willingly participated in this madness!

Here are some of my hoards:

I love their BB cream! as in super! I'm not use in applying foundations because I find them a bit heavy and sticky. So whenever I go out, I just pat a little amount of BB cream on my face, and I'm ready to go! Unlike Korean BB creams, Maybelline's Clear Smooth all in one BB cream has a more natural color.  I also love their powder foundation, I'm using it for three years now, so I bought a refill. :)

On the other hand, I'm not really attracted to lipsticks, I prefer tints. But since they are only 250 php, I grabbed two of my favorite shades. And guess what, I'm now sporting lipsticks more often! yehey! ^_^

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Go ahead! Join the madness! The sale is up until the end of the year only :)

Cheers to all make-up hoarders,

NOVEMBER FAVOURITES!

HELLO THERE! whoa, Christmas is fast approaching! are you also excited just like me? I'm pretty much overwhelmed by the fact that after two more months of listing down my fave beauty/skincare items, we'll be welcoming a new year! Wow. 

So I'll just make this one really quick! Here are some items I fell in love with, and I'm hoping these will capture your heart as well, for the month of NOVEMBER. Keep on reading!

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First items on the line are from my favorite Korean brand--Etude House ^_^

PLAY 101 PENCIL #6

I have seen great reviews about Etude's Play 101 pencil line but everytime I visit their shop, I hold myself back. Why? for God's sake, a single pencil costs 348 php!  

But since I have extra cash,  I gave in and try one. Since I opt for a color that will create a tear-eyed effect on my peepers, I chose #6 which is pearly-pink in color, and the result was fantastic! The pencil is retractable and you can also sharpen it if you want. It can be used on your eyes, lips and cheeks--very versatile! I guess I'll be trying the other colors as well *wink*

*PLAY 101 PENCIL* It helps me achieve that super cute peepers!

HAPPY TEATIME MILK TEA Cleansing Cream

This one was given to me by Mr. J :) *hearts all-over* If you always wear makeup, well you should invest in a pretty good makeup remover---you can choose from cleansing oils, creams, etc. But what if you need to remove a pile of makeup from your face and there's no clean water available?! That's a big problem! Good thing we have products like this :) 

Just apply a generous amount on your face, rub it gently, then remove the cream using a cotton pad. Voila! A clean and moisturize face :)

*Milk Tea Cleansing Cream* smells really, really good! I'm now enjoying my "cleaning time"

MUGWORT COTTON SHEET MASK

It's my first time to have seen this variant of Etude's "I need you" cotton sheet masks. Personally, I don't think there is any significant difference among the variants of their sheet masks---only the smell :) 

FYI, Mugwort is an herb which is also known as the St. John's plant. Some call as the 'dream herb' because it promotes more lucid dreams. It can also calm your nerves and ease stress. This is so perfect for those stressful days at work! yay!

*MUGWORT* The dream herb.

The next items are from HUMAN NATURE ^_^ I'm trying my best to use all of their products, and all of them are really nice. 

BALANCING FACIAL WASH and TONER

I've already featured this combo on my previous posts. However, I stopped using them when I got hooked with Etude House's skincare line. And now my love for these products are back and bound to be forever! 

This is a perfect combo for those who have oily to combination skin types. It controls sebum while keeping moisture intact on your face. The citrusy smell will invigorate your senses! 

*Balancing Facial wash and Face Toner* My BFFs from Human Nature :)

HEALTHY LOTION BLOSSOM BEAUTY

Who wouldn't love a sweet-smelling skin? I'm super addicted to fragrant body lotions because I feel sexy whenever I rub them on my skin. The bad thing about the lotions available in our favorite beauty stores is the fact that tons of chemicals were used in making them, so basically we are indulging in harmful substances. Good thing this product is 100% natural! There's nothing to worry about it even if you use it every hour!  

*Healthy Lotion* Filled with 12 different nutrients + Antioxidants! 

NATURAL FEMININE WASH Chamomile Fresh

Do you know that I have allergies with feminine wash? Now you know! ^_^ Yes, I'm serious. I don't use any brand of feminine wash since the day I suffered from extreme rashes...down there :( So I opted for feminine wipes and pantyliners instead. 

But since I received this one as a free gift from Human Nature, I tried it, and it changed everything. Now, I'm happy using this feminine wash everyday without even bothering about those rashes haunting me again :) The scent is very light, at the same time, it is very effective in controlling strong odor  

*Natural Feminine Wash* Be fresh all-day, Be confident!

RESCUE BALM Tea tree and Lavender

I always have scrapes and scratches on my skin especially on my legs, so definitely this is a mainstay inside my purse. It is very small, approximately 2 inches in diameter, so it's quite handy. This all-purpose balm also has a delicate tea tree smell which I love. :)

No-worries even if you have nicks and bumps, because in one swipe of this balm, they'll be gone in no time!

*Rescue Balm* Aside from tea tree and lavender, this balm also contains coconut oil, beeswax, sunflower seed oil and vitamin E.

GENTLE CLEANSING OIL 

Last on my list, but definitely my favorite , is another breakthrough product from Human Nature. Although I'm already astounded by such great products from HN's skincare line, well, this one is just perfect. 

I don't wanna sound "over-acting", but I'm serious---this cleansing oil is one of their BEST products. I've already tried using the Real Art Cleansing Oil of Etude House and a lot of other brands with cleansing oils. But this product made me happy, holistically! haha! Effective, convenient and affordable are the three words to describe it best. :) 

*Gentle Cleansing Oil* gentle on your face, gentle on your finances as well!

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That's it! We're done with my November Favs!!! As you've noticed, I am now investing much on my skincare rather than on makeups. Maybe it's because of the realization that my skin needs more of the 'care' part, because any makeup won't look good if the slate is not perfect :) 

Hope you'll try these items SOON! Invest on your skincare and live a mile happier! 

Always look good so you'll feel good!

Easy Korean-style fried chicken [plus sizzling tofu!]

I TOOK ADVANTAGE of the city holiday by staying at home while trying some easy dishes. When I went out last week to do the grocery shopping for mama, I instantly craved for fried chicken ^_^ and no-no to ordinary fried chicken, it must be Korean-style! aja!

So I went on and pass by the shelves of SM supermarket [at SM Bacoor] and look for stuff: chicken, seasonings, breading, etc... and tadaa! look what I've found!

I immediately grabbed two flavors of McCormick Korean Fried Chicken recipe mix, soy garlic and kimchi :)

As soon as I got home, I tried making soy garlic fried chicken and it's very easy! Here's what I did:

1. I thawed five pieces of chicken drumsticks, washed and drained excess water.

2. I opened the package of the recipe mix. [See! it has a batter mix and a sauce, plus the illustrated steps of the "how-to" ^_^]

3. I poured the contents of the batter mix and sauce into two separate bowls.

4. I diluted the batter mix into 1/4 cup of water and dipped the chicken drumsticks. 

5. The final step! I deep-fried the chicken, drained them in paper towels and coated them with the sauce :) <I added bits of fried garlic!> Voila! Done and ready to be served!

Aside from the fried chicken, I also cooked sizzling tofu ^_^ This is a very easy recipe, you just need to secure the following ingredients:

• Deep-fried Tofu, cut into small cubes
• Mayonnaise <1 pouch>
• Evaporated milk <1/4 cup>
• Garlic and onions <minced and chopped>
• Salt, pepper, sliced green chili peppers

For the procedure: Prepare a sauce pan. Saute garlic and onion in a tablespoon of palm oil. Add the green chili peppers, mayonnaise and milk. Toss in fried tofu and mix altogether. Season with salt and pepper to taste [you can add other herbs and spices depending on your preference]. Serve hot! :)

~This is my personal recipe, you can modify it so it could suit your taste~

Whew! that was quick but still tiring to make. But I always love to sweat in front of a heated stove! As long as the sweat won't be added to the dish you're preparing <eeeewww!> don't stop experimenting and trying new dishes. There are a lot of stuff that you can find in your favorite supermarket that will ease the cooking process and deliver great dishes! 

'Til next time! 

Good food is meant for sharing :)

Miss G cooking----signing off ^_^

LET'S GO PARTY!

One of the exciting perks of being a high school teacher is the access to important life events of your current and former students. One of which is a debut party. ^_^

I really love attending to parties, especially those that are very significant to the person celebrating it. Being one of the guests make me feel like I’m one of the important people in that person’s life, that’s why he/she would like to celebrate his/her special day with me, awww… J

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On the fourth Sunday of the previous month, I’ve attended a debut party of a former student from my previous school. I’m so ecstatic to see my former students and spend great time with them. They were the first batch of junior high students that I’ve handled; and I look forward to delightful dishes, good music and happy party vibe! Yeah!

The beautiful debutante, Nyssa ^_^ [credits: Serenity Files/Innograph]

The INVITATION. Looks like a ticket / access pass to a concert tho ^_^

And I had FUN that night! The theme of the party was like a bar / mini concert. The celebrant is really musically-inclined, so she started the program with a solo number---a piano-accompanied song. The program kicked-off with the traditional debut rituals---18 roses, 18 wishes---plus the 18 shots. Then after the guests had taken their delicious dinner, party time started! There was a bar counter serving cocktails and mocktails, a beer pong area and neon lights everywhere! I’m pretty sure that everybody really felt the rush of revelry flowing through their nerves!

She may be small, but her talent is 10 times bigger than her :)

MARGARITAS, anyone?

with my PARTY BUDDIES!

The event hall was adorned generally by black details; tables were covered with lace cloth coupled with silver details. However, the stage was decorated with neon tapes, which made it the center of attention. Ballers were given as giveaways, as well as neon wristbands, but what I really love was the CD featuring the debutante’s soundtrack! Most debut parties distribute common type of giveaways: cake in a jar, display items, and the like, but this one is something you can keep and will definitely remind you of that memorable moment.

18 SHOTS! 

Pretty table set-up and souvenirs :)

This is  what I'm talking about! the SOUNDTRACK!

I love the cake! [credits: Serenity Files]

And yes, we grooved until 10 pm, but fun must end for me earlier than expected, because I still have classes the day after: SAD though. But even so, I went home happy and satisfied :) <I just missed out a few important things, like the dance numbers of my former students and the after party stories -_- 

 ~MIRROR SELFIE~ The event place was really nice, a big hand to Casa Ladrillo!

In the end, with all the cocktails and beer legally taken by my former students because they are already 18 and I think their parents permit them to do so, yup, the parents were also invited! I do hope they’ll take these privileges together with the corresponding responsibilities---to act appropriately as adults and serve as good role models to young people. 

I believe that maturity doesn’t come with age. I recognize that they are still young people with peculiar minds, but I would like to be assured that they will not abuse the freedom placed on their hands and they’ll do better in choosing the right things over the wrong. Sometimes, I would wish to be a little girl who can commit lots and lots of mistakes and just get away with them easily, because right now that I’m already an adult, every words and actions must be held with extreme consciousness. 

Well enough of those thoughts! Haha! I’m still looking forward to more fun parties like this! Yay! ^_^

Party hard, Party loud, PARTY RESPONSIBLY!

---Miss G. 

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The debutante's FAMILY ^_^

~~~I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the debutante's beautiful family for allowing me to share this so-far-greatest-moment in Nyssa's life. This family inspires me to eventually create my own in the future---be a loving parent and raise well-rounded kids. Much love!~~

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Goodness with Human Nature

GOODNESS... It's Human Nature! ^_^

I STARTED using Human Nature products when a friend introduced it to me. However, I already received the sunflower beauty oil as a gift from my cousin a year ago. To be honest, I'm a huge fan of Korean skincare products because my skin really responds to them pretty well. But of course, I gave these products a try--drawn by the fact that they are 100% natural--and that was the best decision I ever made.

GOODNESS in every product! All the skincare products that you need under one roof!

I'm so awed by the amazing effects of their skincare line. My skin condition has never been better after I started a new skincare routine using the 100% natural products of Human Nature. In addition to that, their products are very affordable they won't stash your wallet. ^_^ 

And after a year of contemplation, I've decided to sign-up as a dealer of Human Nature products. :) Yes, Aside from the discounts that I will receive whenever I purchase my personal grabs, I can also share the goodness of these amazing products to everyone! I'm not new in online selling, I've had a lot of products which I offer thru my pages, but now I guess I'll be sticking with these items for a long time.

The contract signing! ~teehee~

My first Magalogue Turnover experience ^_^

Human Nature products focus on skincare/hygiene line for men and women. However, they are also offering random products which include lunch boxes, plush toys, bag, pouches, chocolates and coffee---these items are all Filipino-made. These products are from Filipino entrepreneurs who stitched a partnership with Human Nature. Instead of buying imported tea, chocolate bars, peanut spread and coffee, you can help our local farmers and small enterprises if you will purchase our own native products.

ALL-SET to start the business that gives back :)

This is what I really like about this business, they are not only up to the profit, but most importantly they exert efforts in uplifting the status of small enterprises, promoting natural products to help the environment and uniting the Filipinos in patronizing Philippine-made products.

I’m hoping that there will be a lot of Filipinos who will try and eventually love Human Nature’s products. Let us all change for the better, Let us GO NATURAL!

If you are interested to try their products, you can check their website: www.humanheartnature.com, then contact me thru my official page: www.facebook.com/missgdiariesofficial/ and I’ll have your products ready!

SHARE THE GOODNESS with your loved ones!

Don’t hesitate. Don’t think twice. Experience goodness, TODAY!

Always be natural, inside and out :) 

---Miss G.

OCTOBER FAVOURITES!

HELLO THERE! In all fairness, I managed to release my OCTOBER FAVE LIST this early! woohoo! ^_^ October has been a super busy month for me. Those dragging days at work and school left me so exhausted. But accomplishing so many things last month made me feel like I'm a superwoman! Having said all of these, I still managed to keep the beauty shining even in the most stressful moments :) 

Now, here's a roll of products that I started to love for the month of OCTOBER! 

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First on the list is ETUDE HOUSE SURPRISE ESSENCE CONCEALER

If you've been following me, you'll know that I'm currently into TonyMoly's cover pot concealer (which is very nice indeed). However, Since I've changed some products in my skincare routine, I noticed the need for more breathable and light make-up products. I'm no longer into putting too much stuff on my face (thanks to my improved skincare routine)---and so, concealer is my one and only best friend. 

I'm so happy that I've purchased this product because it matches my skin needs pretty well. It conceals perfectly (I swear!) and also helps illuminate some parts of my face :) 

A VERY HANDY BUDDY :) 

Next is another ETUDE HOUSE product, the CUPCAKE ALL-OVER COLOR PEACH

I already featured the same product in one of my "fave lists" but it's a different variant---cherry! I don't know, but I think I'm in love with peach right now :) This product is really good---provides nice color to my lips, eyelids and cheeks.

ALL-IN! No need to bring all of your make-up products :)

I'm now lining my eyelids using ETUDE HOUSE OH M' EYE LINE.

This one is a good grab for me because it's so affordable! Plus it's what I wanted for an eyeliner---smudge-proof! :) And even if you're not an "eyeliner" expert, you can easily apply this, so no worries! <However, a few days after purchasing this product, I accidentally dropped it -_- and now the applicator tip is broken...sad life>

SEXY EYES with Oh m' Eye Line!

Moving on, the next product really excites me!:) HONEY BLACK DETOX MASK

Being a certified mask hoarder, I was so excited when I saw this on the shelves at Watson's. For only 58 php, you'll get to experience a relaxing treat! After a day's work, this product is a nice escape from all the physical stress that you've encountered. I always end my day with a cold sheet mask, so that when I wake up, I'll look fresh and happy ^_^

FRESH AND PAMPERED with Black detox mask :)

And ooh! this cute BEAUTY BLENDER (PINK SPONGE) is next!

This is the most talked-about make-up sponge in the market today. Some even call this as the "complexion-perfecting" beauty sponge. And it's true! I use this to apply BB cream on my face (I don't use foundation, but this can be used for applying it as well) and also when applying loose powder. This product will really help you blend, highlight and contour just like a pro. It's a bit expensive than other make-up sponges, however, I find it as a good investment though---since you don't need to replace it every now and then. ^_^

THE BEAUTY BLENDER ^_^

And for the second time, my second ETUDE HOUSE HAPPY ESSENTIAL FOAM (Vitamin C)

I'm so in love with this facial foam line from Etude House! Though they are a bit pricey, the effect is tremendously outstanding :) It leaves my skin clean and moist after every wash. I think this is one of the best-sellers of their skincare line. 

SUPERB MOISTURE that makes me HAPPY!

The next three products are 100% natural, and the four of us creates a beautiful love affair... :)


HUMAN NATURE ROSEDEW MIST

Koreans are into face mists---freshens the face instantly and sets the make-up perfectly. I've consumed two bottles of Deoproce Collagen Face mist and they left my pocket wounded until now :( Good thing I found out that we already have a local version of it! 

It'll give your taut and dehydrated skin that revitalizing mid-day quench! I love its scent so much! Plus, a spritz helps set my make-up, thus preventing it from flaking off and saves me from constant touch-ups. I spray this on my face before applying and after I applied my make-up. :)

DAINTY ALL-DAY SPRAY!

Another great product from Human Nature is the SUNFLOWER BEAUTY OIL.

I don't know if I can perfectly express, thru words, how this product changed my skin condition. I've been using this for almost 8 months, I guess, but I still decided to include this on my list because I want to share its goodness to everyone! It relieved me from pimple scars and dark under eye circles, resolved the redness on my face caused by irritations and cleared my underarms from some dark spots caused by deodorants. It's a SUPER product! A must-have for everyone! 

*I'll have a separate review for this wonderful product*

EXPERIENCE 23 MIRACLES in one bottle!

Last but not the least is the BUG SHIELD MOSQUITO REPELLENT.

It's not a beauty or skincare product, but it will prevent you from acquiring mosquito bites, I promise! Better than our good 'ol OFF! lotion tho, it stays longer which means it's more effective. Since we are now in a serious battle against these deadly insects, I guess we should be equipped with the right weapon. tehee!

OFF YOU GO MOSQUITOES!

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AND WE'RE DONE! That's it, my fave products for the month of October :) I hope you enjoyed reading and I'm encouraging everyone to try these products as well.

By the way, If you're interested with the HUMAN NATURE products, we're selling them! Just visit our official Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/missgdiariesofficial/

Thanks for your support, you are always appreciated ^_^

Moving forward, soaring high!,

--Miss G.

The Stylish Teacher

WE CAN NEVER FORGET how our grade school teacher looks like: plain pencil skirt and blouse with tiny specs matching her messy up do. Even in high school, all of them seem to dress-up in a very common way. I look at them as if they are following a specific dress code: modest, yes, but I find it kinda...boring. In public schools, teachers are required to wear uniforms--so basically they all look the same. But in private schools, teachers are allowed to wear semi-formal or business attires. But I guess because of the very stressful working environment, teachers tend to set aside their fashion sense. Whatever the set-up is, it all boils down to this question: Can a teacher still manage to look stylish given her stressful profession?

Well my answer is YES. 

I am a teacher as well. I've been in the profession for almost five years now. Sometimes, I would want to pursue a different profession---something that won't restrict me on the stuff that I would like to wear, but of course that ain't easy. And so, I find ways on how I could still exercise my passion for fashion without compromising my professional image. And those are the things that I'll be sharing with you ^_^

Let's get started!

HOARD THE BASICS

Stuff your closet with the basic pieces, clothes that you can mix and match with trending items. Don't be afraid to invest on these items because they are lifesavers! These pieces are the basic foundation of stylish and professional-looking outfits. 

BLACK COLLARLESS BLAZER. You'll definitely look like a smart casual chic under this basic piece. Will look great over a pair of pants or skirt. 

THE LITTLE BLACK DRESS. A must-have for every woman. I prefer the short-sleeve or sleeveless version tho. This is my savior whenever I'm undecided what to wear for the day.

BLACK PENCIL SKIRT. Achieve the ultimate sophisticated look with a pencil skirt. But be cautious, the cut must not be too loose nor too tight on you. Plus, it must not be too short, a knee-length skirt will do. 

BLACK PANTS. This is probably the most common piece in a semi-formal or business outfit. Gone are the days when women hail loose pants---overhaul your old pants and make sure they'll fit your thighs this time. 

WHITE BUTTON DOWN BLOUSE. A very flexible piece, because you can pair this with a pair of pants or a skirt; tucked or loose, this will still look great on you. 

WHITE TANK TOP. Of course you cannot wear this alone! But this piece will look nice under a blazer. If you also have a handful of chiffon/see-through blouses, you might as well want to wear this under them. 

WHITE DENIM. Jeans or denims are staples of a casual attire. However, white denims can also be a replacement for your good 'ol black pants.

MIX THE BASICS WITH THE TRENDS

These trending pieces will look great if paired with your basic wardrobe. So who says you can't be "in"? Take the smart casual or formal look to the next level by adapting to the changes in fashion trends. Just make sure that you'll keep those creative juices flowing out of you---think outside the box. ^_^

Start with these pretty tops!

LONG SLEEVE CHIFFON BLOUSE. The one with embellished collar is what I prefer. This piece will give your attire a youthful touch.  

SLEEVELESS CHIFFON BLOUSE. What I love about chiffon blouses is that they are lightweight, perfect for the super busy days at school.

SLEEVELESS LACE TOP. You can wear this under a blazer or even a black cardigan.

BLACK COLLARED LACE TOP. This one would look good if paired with a good-fitting pencil skirt. Laced tops are one of the most sought-after fashion pieces. You can achieve a smart  and feminine look with one of these.

FLORAL BLOUSE. These are normally paired with denim, but you can sport this with a pair of black pants, and even better if tucked inside a pencil skirt.

Aside from the tops, latest trends take us away from the usual 'all-black' formal look. By adding some color in your attire, you are also inviting extra ounce of positive vibes!

COLORED COATS. Let the colors define your mood!

ACCESSORIZE!

Don't spend a lot of money on accessories that will inevitably go out of style easily. Invest on the 'flexible' pieces. Necklaces and belts, for me, should be your priority. 

Accessories, like necklaces, make a huge difference in a simple outfit. So even if you're wearing a plain white tank top under a black blazer, you'll still look fab with a nice accessory hanging on your neck. Just make sure that you won't over do it. ^_^

MULTI-LAYER PEARL NECKLACE

GOLD A-RAY NECKLACE

Belts, on the other hand, add details on a plain dress or long blouse. All you need is a nice black belt (preferably the one that is stretchable) and a few colored ones (brown and red are highly recommended). 

BLACK STRETCHABLE BELT (with butterfly buckle)

RED LEATHER BELT

WEAR COMFY YET FASHIONABLE SHOES

Teachers are always on-the-go! Walking up-and-down the stairs, along dusty corridors and back-and-forth the classroom aisle---a comfortable pair of shoes is really a must-have. However, you must not sacrifice your look just because you want to feel at ease while working.

These shoes will surely look good yet comfortable on your soles!

BLACK STACKED HEEL PUMPS. Unlike stilettos, this type will provide extra support on your heels, causing less strain.

BLACK KITTEN HEEL SHOES. If you're not comfortable in wearing high-heeled shoes, this one is perfect for you!

As much as possible, avoid wearing flat / doll shoes because they won't give you the 'professional-look'. But if you must, make sure that it will not look like a school girl's school shoes. tehee!

BLACK POINTED FLATS. I prefer pointed flat shoes because they look more formal :)

But what if you're bounded to wear uniform everyday? Can you still look stylish? Yes of course! You just need to add a few pieces like a scarf or a brooch.

PIN BROOCH

SATIN SCARF

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Though we are in a profession that requires us to look decent and respected at all times, we must not set aside the fact that our students would also love to see pleasant-looking mentors standing in front of them. So aside from perfecting our craft as a teacher, I believe that we should also work on improving our appearance because this will improve our confidence in dealing with our co-teachers and students.


So that's it! I hope you've learned a lot from this post. ^_^ I would love to know your insights, you can leave a comment below. Thanks!

You can even took a photo of your outfits---IG worthy!

A teacher with a huge sense of style,

---Miss G.