Ready for Simbang Gabi

CEBU, Philippines — The cold has always been the biggest hurdle about the Simbang Gabi. Not much for the true-blue faithful, who’d offer the nine-day dawn sacrifice for their faith; but it’s quite a challenge for the young and fashion-conscious. More than standing up to the cold, the early morning Masses also require (self-imposed requirement though) the fashionistas to make some fashion statement.

Considering the big crowds that troop to church for the dawn Masses, outfit has become a major matter indeed. Some people would prefer to be hit by a bullet train than look like they just got up from bed (although it’s actually true) and looking like crap! Simbang Gabi has become a fashion event these days.

As it’s only a few days before the traditional Simbang Gabi start, might as well that the outfits to wear to the early morning Masses be planned now. At least there’s still time to turn the closet upside down for appropriate pieces or, if not, to buy some.

It can get pretty cold in the early hours of the morning. That, too, has to be considered in planning the outfits, aside from sheer fashion sense. But more than looking good and being comfortable, it must be remembered that the nine-day dawn Masses is a devotional practice for faith. Thus, one shall be very careful not ever to go overboard – the girls especially – when attending the Simbang Gabi.

The website www.preview.ph shares useful ideas:

• Rising up in the morning before the sun does is always a struggle. Don’t add to the problem looking for an outfit to wear. It can’t get any easier than throwing on the popular combination of t-shirt and pants. For a chic style, opt for tailored trousers instead of the usual denim, and adding on a soft blazer.

• To fend yourself from the cold of December, slip into your favorite thick and comfy sweater, and pair it with something printed to wake up your senses and put you in a good morning mood. For the skirt, please take note of the length and reserve those cute minis for other occasions.

• You may grab the first dress you see in your closet so that you make it to church on time. If it’s sleeveless, simply wear a sweater or your cotton long-sleeved top with it, and finish off with a pair of dressy penny loafers with scrunched down socks.

• You may want to opt for the comfort of your trusty jeans. Go ahead and complete the easy look with thick knitwear in white, paired with metallic espadrilles. Wear it with a watch or a no-fuss arm candy that is church-appropriate.

• One thing nice about the chilly weather is that it gives you a good reason to layer. A body hugging sweater dress looks great with a sleeveless piece underneath. It can look pretty decent for church and pretty comfortable in the cold, and nice to go with a pair of cute booties.

After the mass, touring the nearby line of stalls that serve native delicacies is a good excuse for showing off the nice outfit one has put together.