Luxe for less: Your 12.12 cheat sheet to look more 'sosyal' for the holidays
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When it comes to looking like a million bucks, online shoppers know all too well that the annual 12.12 sale is key to success. With items slashed as much as 90% (or so they claim), practically anyone can cop the style of Hollywood A-listers without spending like… well, a Hollywood A-lister.
So here’s a quick cheat sheet on looking like your best shala self this season—while navigating the 12.12 rush like a pro.
Be clear on why you’re shopping
According to the recent Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho feature, online shopping addiction is now a legit mental health illness—and the year-end sales don’t exactly keep the temptation at bay. However, you can rise above this by being clear on why you’re shopping.
Are you going to buy clothes for a Christmas party with friends? Do you need to look your best for a company-wide celebration? Listing down the exact items you need will help prevent you from splurging. Think grocery list, only digital.
Choose a classic timepiece
Not a lot of things say luxury more than watches. A good watch is not only functional but stylish as well. When picking out a watch, choose one with a simple face and a timeless band. Leather straps are more casual while metal ones look more formal. Either way, both can be classic pieces that will upgrade your wardrobe.

Percentage promo codes are best to use on expensive purchases like watches because they usually have a discount limit (i.e your 25% off is capped at P2,000.00 only). If you buy something more than the limit, you maximize the discount you’re getting. Be wary of the validity, though. Some brands don’t include their top-of-the-line pieces in Christmas sales.
Zalora has promo codes like EDSAFEVER that gives as much as 30% off. Subscribing to their newsletter gets you around P350.00 discount, too.
Remember: leather makes it better
Branded bags are easily faked so it’s quite easy to fall into the Class A rabbit hole. The thing with Class A bags, though, is it’s tacky for those who know what genuine ones look like. Resist the urge to go to the nearest tiangge; instead, opt to go for stylish leather bags.

There is a variety of leather bags available for sale in the major e-commerce apps. This one from Shopee is handy for those on the go, while this dainty one is perfect for those who don’t like carrying big bags around.
Take care of you
Cliche as it may sound, looking better actually does start by feeling better. And no, self-care is not just pampering yourself. It’s staying hydrated, eating healthy, and getting enough sleep—which are things that take the backseat when you’re stressing out on checking out.

During the first hour of the 11.11 sale last November, a record-breaking 1 million subscribers have logged onto Lazada and made their purchases. Pro tip: avoid the “rush hour” by adding items to your cart beforehand, then checking them out in the morning. Lazada has catalogues of health and beauty items you may add to cart as early as now. Talk about planning ahead!
So there you go! Upgrading your look doesn’t have to be so expensive when you know how to make the most of online sales. More deals are sure to pop up on the day itself, so watch out. The key is knowing what you want and focusing on getting the best deal for that. Happy shopping!