Inhoudsopgave van May 2016 - MEGA

JC CERILLA JC studied in an art school where he eventually discovered his passion for photography. In 2009, JC left Manila for New York City to further his expertise as a photographer, practice his style as an artist and work with modeling agencies like Wilhelmina, Women, New York Models, One Management, Muse, DNA and VNY. JC is now back in Manila, to give back and do freelance photography for print, and fashion and beauty campaigns. MJ SUAYAN From street photography, MJ transitioned to fine art and conceptual photography. He also attended workshops under the likes of Raymund Isaac, Emily Soto, Manny Librodo and at the Philippine Center for Creative Imaging. He has had editorial contributions in both foreign and local magazines, as well as fashion websites such as Vogue.It. Currently,…

Dear MEGA team, I don’t really know what is about reality shows that keep us hooked. Maybe it’s the voyeurism or the seemingly glamorous lives they lead, but I love watching them. My favorite is, of course, Keeping Up With The Kardashians. In the show, Kendall Jenner was known as the timid one, which is why it was so surprising how she suddenly took over the fashion world, with her millions of Instagram followers, product endorsements, runway shows, magazine covers, beauty and fashion campaigns and a whole lot more. Her stardom came as a surprise, but it’s clear that she really worked her way towards success. Apart from her gorgeous face, lean body and enviable sense of style, her professionalism, confidence, dedication and respect for her colleagues are attributes that…

THE LIST: 1 Black wrap-back shirt by JOSEPH. 2 Red arrow-printed wrap skirt by MARC JACOBS. 3 Black printed leather crossbody by CARVEN. 4 Cognac mid-waist buckled belt by CHARLES & KEITH. 5 Black suede wooden clog by ALEXANDER MCQUEEN. 6 Tan block heel sandal by MISS SELFRIDGE. 7 Petrol blue printed blouse (P3295) by MANGO. 8 Silver round-faced watch by DKNY. 9 Black oversized organza tee by JOSEPH. 10 Black patterned rectangular sunglasses by FENDI. 11 Multi-colored crossbody with front pocket (P2595) by ZARA STYLE TIP Strike a balance between power dressing and a de rigueur cut with the wrap-inspired overlap trouser…

Just like Garance Doré’s soul sings for Parisian skylines and fits New York’s fast-paced and frenetic lifestyle like a glove, Anika Martirez’s heart beats for the city of angels. “Los Angeles’ casual Cali-cool lifestyle rubbed off on me after living in the city for four years,” shares the young designer, who first moved to take up courses at The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising. From the dress-and-sneaker combinations she would spot on California streets to the experience she garnered as a member of the fabric research and development teams of BCBG Max Azria and Halston post-graduation, the universe pushed Anika to fall head-over-heels for easy, pared-down aesthetics. This deep-rooted affinity for tasteful, unassuming style, paired with some handy advice from her father, put Anika’s future into perspective. Her next…

Forget the timeless white sneaker and the crisp button-down—Bea Marin has got other ideas. When the 19-year-old blogger is asked to name the first three essentials she would reach for in the unfortunate, potentially traumatic event of a closet fire, she automatically admits to the struggle of finding a firm answer. “It’s hard to choose because I love all my clothes,” she surrenders like a true fashion buff. With little time and thought, she ultimately settles on a fool-proof trifecta that resides within the bounds of her well-curated wardrobe—a leather jacket, a pair of boots and a sartorial wild card telling of the flair that lies behind her cherub-like face and soft-spoken demeanor: a bold faux fur coat. “I feel like I’m a walking contradiction,” she says of her sense…

“DO NOT LIVE TO IMPRESS OTHERS” WHO WAS YOUR FASHION ROLE MODEL GROWING UP? Definitely my mom. I grew up seeing her impeccably dressed for all occasions. She watches her weight, takes care of her skin and eats healthy. That’s why she looks good in everything. WHAT WAS YOUR EARLIEST FASHION MEMORY? Christmas outfits were a pretty big deal. I usually matched with my sisters—big poufy dresses, ballerina shoes and pig tails! ARE YOU A SHOE OR BAG LOVER? I’m definitely both! For sneakers I go to Adidas and Isabel Marant, Chanel for slip-ons and for flats, Tod’s and Lanvin. For dressing up I love pieces from Jimmy Choo, Louboutin, Céline and Saint Laurent. For bags, I love the quality of Chloé, Mansur Gavriel, Loewe, Fendi, Alexander McQueen and Bottega…

To the uninitiated, Baselworld is the Olympics of horology. Only the most prestigious watch brands present their very best and highly anticipated for the year, including the most relevant innovations in the industry. The Omega brand has been the star player in Baselworld as it continues to push for exceptional standards in all its creations. The brand welcomes a new era in horology after the successful Omega Globemaster, which was dubbed the “World’s First Master Chronometer.” True to the brand’s 168-year history of giving the most refined designs, exquisite craftsmanship and future perfect technology, Omega presents new models with the Master Chronometer certification. 1 THE SPEEDMASTER MOONPHASE With the Master Chronometer, the new Speedmaster Moonphase is already a powerhouse on its own. But with Omega, the universe is the limit.…

Ask yourself, when does self-love tread into self-obsession? Is an Instagram filter okay, but using Photoshop too much? Is contouring feminist, a way for women to take control of her looks and present herself as she desires, or is it propagating an unhealthy ideal? As humans, we have always been obsessed with our looks, some more than others (see Narcissus and Paris Hilton), but the 20th (Warhol’s 15 Minutes of Fame) and the 21st centuries really drove in the message—self-obsession isn’t just about gods, royalty and tyrants, it’s about each and every one of us with a social media account and a front-facing camera. This month, we take self-obsession to new heights in Counter Intelligence where we give you the lowdown on the best body slimming and contouring products (so…

INKY BOTTOM Think of it as fashionable take on election season’s indelible ink. After painting a classic French tip, using a metallic color for the tip, Yoshimi took a cocoa shade and, using a thin nail art brush, carefully traced the bottom of the nail. You could also use the thin wide side if the lacquer brush. Make sure that your base color is dry before you apply this last step so it’s easy to wipe off mistakes. ALL LINED UP Get inspired by the clean lines of S/S ’16 collections by Dolce & Gabbana and Missoni. Over a pale or bare base, take a skinny brush and—with a steady hand—draw a clean line across the nail. Vary the width on each nail or keep it uniform but at different…

“ I still remember when I got a phone call, I couldn’t stop crying tears of joy,” shares Alphie Sadsad, Bobbi Brown’s Artistry and Education Executive and makeup artist extraordinaire, about getting a call to do a show during New York Fashion Week. Usually, tears of joy are prompted by wins early in one’s career. Further along the way, new projects—no matter how huge—don’t seem to merit the same enthusiastic and humble response. It’s easy to conclude, then, from the sheer gratitude in Alphie’s statement, that he is a neophyte in the business. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Career envy is an actual phenomenon with up and coming artists putting their revered icons on a pedestal. If there was ever a makeup artist deserving to top that list…

TRESEMMÉ STANDS AS THE GO-TO BRAND FOR SENSATIONAL LOCKS Hair has always been listed as a top beauty priority. Call it an obsession, but women love their tresses, putting hair under the wrath of styling tools just so it can look the way they want. With easier access to runway looks, we excitedly integrate hair trends into our everyday lives. We embark on frequent dye jobs—chic copper highlights, sweet pastels, or even outrageous neons—that have been invading the fashion shows. Unfortunately, this obsession soon leads to the dull, brittle, and lifeless locks we try so hard to solve. STYLE ALL YOU WANT The preferred hair care brand on the runways of New York Fashion Week and loved by professionals all over the world, TRESemmé stands as the go-to brand for…

A true super model, Karolina Kurkova is one of the most recognizable faces in the fashion industry today. She has graced countless magazine covers, advertising campaigns and even crossed over to movies. She is also one of the latest mentors who joined the roster of Mary Kay’s Dream Beautiful judges. When asked what made her join the project she quickly replied, “I love being part of an opportunity that gives girls from all over the world a chance to pursue their dreams. If I can be a role model or of service in any way to these young girls trying to get into this business then I am grateful. I like the idea of what Mary Kay represents, and the authenticity of the brand.” Truly, Karolina is one of the…

1 CLARINS Contour Body Treatment Oil (P3050)—This emerging oil contains extracts from broom, geranium and marjoram to eliminate toxins, leaving skin toned, revitalized and silky smooth. 2 PERRICONE M.D. Cold Plasma Body (P4550)—Award-winning technology gives a radiant glow while contouring areas with dimpling. This product works great with dull, dehydrated, or rough skin showing loss of elasticity and cellulite. 3 L’OCCITANE Almond Beautiful Shape (P2450)—Almond tree buds, which are rich in flavonoids and caffeine, help drain fatty deposits on thighs and buttocks, while microexfoliating lemon extract helps combat cellulite. This is the potent last step in the brand’s anti-cellulite range. 4 MYSLIM Yerba Mate Drink (P89/bottle)—This strawberry flavored drink contains palatinose, carnipure and finomate/E (yerba mate extract). This slimming concoction detoxifies, boosts energy and burns fat and helps with excessive…

While the western hemisphere steels itself for a red hot summer, here in the Philippines, we’re enjoying the end of the season, stretched out on a hammock, swinging gently to a rhythm, a forgotten cocktail tipped over in the sand, its tiny umbrella upturned. We can dream, but it’s more likely that we’re home, locked in a darkened room, the air-conditioning on full blast as a movie flickers on an HD screen. We sip our gimlets, chew on our air-popped corn as our summer heroines traipse in the sand, the desert or the blistering city, hair ruffled by the breeze, makeup perfectly just-so, never over the top, in shades of shimmery olive, bronze and sand, with a burst of sea foam green and popsicle orange here and there. We share…

1 SLEEP BETTER AT NIGHT - Sugar triggers the release of stress hormone cortisol, which interferes with sleep. When you give up sugar, you will be more awake during the day and finally be able to sleep soundly at night. 2 LESS BLOATING – Do you always feel bloated right after a meal? Sugar might be the culprit. Refined carbs and sugars such as white bread, pasta are common triggers of gas and bloating. While our body was created to digest sugar, it can’t handle the amount of sugar in the modern diet. 3 BETTER SEX – Insulin resistance caused by a diet high in refined carbohydrates drives down testosterone in both men and women. Your sex drive is down when your insulin levels are up. Didn’t expect that, did…

LOOK AT THIS Get the party started with a bold black lip. Try MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Intense in 50 Satin Black (P1400). Pair it with Biba-inspired liner and a DGAF ‘tude. LISTEN HERE A matte cocoa lip shade such as INGLOT Lip Tint Matte in 18 (P1150) gets people talking fast. OUT OF THE BLUE Show them who’s a star by donning a dramatic metallic blue lip. Use a bold shade like MAC Lipstick in Matte Royal (P1100) and layer with a pearl powder. A swipe of complementing color on your eyes evens your look. In this case, try MAC Pro Longwear Waterproof Colour Stick in Créme-Filled (P1400). ATTENTION, GIVE IT TO ME Hold court with a majestic purple shade such as OFRA Long Lasting Lipstick in…

Beauty is an art. SM knows that behind every gorgeous goddess is a makeup maven who can bring out the best in her. This year, SM recognizes the talents who have made women beautiful for decades. The endeavor started with the first ever SM Beauty Ball, held last April 5 at Makati Shangri-La. It was a splendid gathering to honor makeup experts for their contribution to beauty, the way designers are recognized in the fashion industry. Legendary masters Fanny Serrano, James Cooper and Jesi Mendez were honored and recognized as Pioneers of Beauty. This was followed by the introduction of the modern-day Makeover Masters. These artists were chosen based on their talent, clientele and professional excellence. They graced the red carpet like stars, escorted by their celebrity muses-turned-friends: Ms. Cristine…

Linda Farrow Philippines showcased its most coveted and stylish pieces to Cebu city’s most fashionable personalities at Anzani Restaurant. The extraordinary preview covered various displays of optical frames, oversized round sunglasses, aluminum and rose gold lenses, which were adored by guests who took turns in trying them on. Everyone was treated to fine wine, tasty canapés and a special photography session where guests had the chance to have their portraits taken wearing their favorite Linda Farrow eyewear.…

Contrary to popular belief, the selfie is not a millennial invention. Throughout history, there have been photographic self-portraits that date back to the 1800s up until the 1970s when apparently, Andy Warhol attempted to do experimentations with it. But it was not until the advent of the digital age that the selfie phenomenon exploded. There have been a lot of opinions about it, both positive and negative, but the question remains, why did we start doing it? I am not a millennial, but this shouldn’t stop me from understanding this whole culture, because the reality is, I am as much a part of it as you are. So, why has it become so big? For me, it is that fact that it connects people in real time. It has become…

By the advent of its fourth season, Manila Fashion Festival had traversed the line between a bi-annual practice and a regularly awaited sartorial tradition. But even in the face of triumph, the minds behind the style celebration brought innovation to the frontiers. From a shift in logistics to the welcoming of fresh faces on the scene, the fall/winter ‘16 season of Manila Fashion Festival, hosted from the 11th to 14th of April at the EDSA Shangri-la Hotel, had good reason to keep guests and industry insiders alike on the edges of their sheet-lined seats. THE COLLABORATION Catering to the youth’s affinity for the instantaneous, Art Personas and Manila Fashion Festival has forged a partnership with the local limb of online juggernaut Zalora. Allowing designers a taste of the click-and-purchase regimen…

THE LIST: 1 Gray and brown Iridia sunglasses by FENDI. 2 Multicolored printed button-down (P1995) by MANGO. 3 Black butterfly embellished plexiglass sandal by VALENTINO. 4 Navy embroidered shoulder bag by GUCCI. 5 Red suede patchwork skirt by RIVER ISLAND. 6 Brown studded pump by VALENTINO. 7 Multi-colored mid-heel lace-up shoe (P3495) by ZARA. 8 Suede Western buckle belt by SAINT LAURENT. 9 Geometric print pleated skirt by GUCCI. 10 Beaded tassel earrings (P795) by MANGO. 11 White sleeveless silk blouse by MICHAEL KORS. 12 Camel suede overshirt (P8590) by ZARA STYLE TIP Step outside color conventions and sport your suede in Kelly green or cool lavender…

WHAT IS THE GREATEST LESSON YOU’VE LEARNED WHILE TAKING UP FASHION DESIGN? To learn to love and enjoy the struggles, hurdles and challenges that come with this industry’s competitive dog-eat-dog environment. It all begins with a positive mindset and the right attitude of patience, humility and a lot of hard work. WHO ARE THE STYLE ICONS YOU LOOK UP TO? Olivia Lopez of Lust for Life for her keen eye for versatility and Leandra Medine of Man Repeller for her playful approach to style. I also look up to Jenna Lyons, Olivia Palermo, Miroslava Duma and my all-time favorites since day one, the Olsen twins. TAKE US THROUGH YOUR DESIGN PROCESS. One of the many notable insights I took to heart at FIDM was to first search for fabric then…

“MINIMAL ONE MINUTE AND AUDACIOUS THE NEXT, BEA’S AESTHETIC IS OFTEN SPORADIC BUT ALWAYS COVETABLE” ARE YOU A SHOE-LOVER OR A BAG-LOVER? WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE BRANDS FOR EACH? Shoes, definitely! My favorite shoe brand would be Zara and my favorite bag brand would be Charles & Keith. WHO ARE YOUR FAVORITE DESIGNERS, BOTH LOCALLY AND INTERNATIONALLY? Alexander Wang, Acne Studios, Diesel Black Gold and Yeezy, to name a few. As for local designers, I love Eliz Marcelo, Salad Day and Banggo Niu. I love anything that’s minimal and streamlined but in that world of monochrome. I also need a pop of dazzle, intricate detailing or quirkiness! HOW DO YOU MANAGE YOUR TIME BETWEEN BEING A BLOGGER AND A STUDENT? Two things: time management and a planner. I always mentally…

WHAT IS THE BEST CHANGE YOU HAVE SEEN IN YOUR LIFE? My priorities changed when I had my family. Suddenly, another person’s comfort, safety and happiness take precedence. WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE SECRET TO A HAPPY LIFE? Do not live to impress others. WHAT IS NEXT FOR JERIANNE EJERCITOPENA? I want to have more children, as I’ve always wanted a big family. I am also currently taking up further education so I can easily adapt to the ever-changing media and advertising landscape. I would also like to continue helping women and children. We are here to help each other. We must share our knowledge and blessings to the best of our abilities.…

“I LIKE TO BE A VISIONNAIRE” —CHEF AKRAME Binge watching food-centric reality TV shows and documentaries (as is the case during very late nights that stretch on towards the cock-adoodle-doo of the rooster), will let you in on a little secret—the steaming, lip-smacking and saliva-inducing plate of food before you is a product of a well-orchestrated kitchen staff led by an inimitable leader. “I always say my food is not food, it’s a collection,” begins Michelin-starred chef Akrame Benellal during a sit-down interview at what was then a three-day old Atelier Vivanda here in Manila. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Bonifacio Global City, the new Parisian bistro is a mostly glass-paneled edifice that isn’t to be missed. Entering the restaurant, however, is a different story. Clearly inspired…

THE STICKLER "I have very sparse brows, which is why my brow routine has several steps. Thanks to MAYBELLINE Fashion Brow Duo Shaper (P299) and the Fashion Brow Mascara (P249), I’ve whittled it down to just two. First, I fill in the gaps with the Brow Duo Shaper, a super thin (2 mm!) pencil, using light strokes. After much fussing, I’ll seal in the look with the mascara, which thickens the individual strands for a lusher look that stays all day.”—Trina Epilepsia Boutain, Beauty and Features Editor THE LUCKY ONE "Thankfully, I was born with pretty thick brows that I’ve never over-plucked. Because of that, I’ve been hesitant to use brow products for fear of overdoing things. Thankfully when brow authority Browhaus launched the BROWHAUS Classic Brow Lead (P648), I…

“MOST OF MY WORK REQUIRES ME TO STAY ACTIVE WHICH I LOVE” Sam Rodriguez, or Sambie to friends, is a woman of many passions and talents. Her initial introduction into the spotlight may have been prompted by her last name—she is the daughter of late 80s actor Miguel Rodriguez—but what has been keeping her in the throngs of the industry is simply her first. As an events and TV host, the model has been on everyone’s radar for a while now but the endorsement that sealed the deal in her being a force to be reckoned with is her endorsement with Bench Body. Despite having the option to go the showbiz route, the model is remarkably trying to make a name for herself in a different field: corporate. As Country…

COPPER WAVE 1 Give hair a protective boost by prepping with TRESemmé Platinum Strength Shampoo and Conditioner. 2 Follow up with TRESemmé Platinum Strength Stay Soft Leave In Treatment. Rough dry hair. 3 Working by sections, wrap hair around a curling iron, starting two inches from the roots. 4 Brush out waves for a natural look. SHADE SHIFT “Hair color has this dramatic way of enhancing a look and that’s why Filipinas love to switch shades or have these touched up every so often,” says Lourd Ramos. The hair professional, however, stresses the need for upgraded hair care as frequent dye jobs can harm the locks. He shares, “TRESemmé Platinum Strength gives hair that extra protection so you can color and style all you want.”…

“WE HOPE EVERYBODY GETS TO FULLY ENJOY THEIR SUNNY MOMENTS” You cast your squinted gaze towards a never-ending horizon of cascading blues and glassy waters that break into gentle ripples. Taking command of your entire body, you sprint towards the sea. The salt-laced air rushes against you as the breakwaters bring you to an abrupt halt. The sun gently prickles your skin, enveloping you in a warm embrace. With feet digging deep into the powdery sand you close your eyes and take a deep breath. Ah, yes, this is summer. The tender laps of waves threaten to swallow your ankles, cutting short your peaceful daydream. And then you realize you are standing under the news-making 41-degree weather that has burned through our tropical oasis all summer long. Alarming droughts and…

Reinvention happens at the salon. Looking for that cut, color and style doesn’t always have to come from the latest trends. It’s all about finding a look that defines who you are. This sense of individuality is sparked by EIMI. Derived from an Ancient Greek phrase, EIMI means “I am” or “I exist”. The styling range from Wella Professionals tells of individual expression through a new styling language. To speak EIMI is to be aware of what the hair needs. Is it volume, shine, smoothness, texture or simply hold? Whatever you focus on, EIMI can decipher it from a portfolio of 31 innovative hair products. EIMI products are better than ever with improved formulas and breakthrough technology. Hairdressers now have the best products right at their fingertips. Styling opportunities are…

Let’s get one painful thing out of the way—millenials are the most self-obsessed generation in history. We are so vain that not only do we think that every song (or social media post) is about us, but we are often deluded (by ourselves and our circle of enablers) into thinking that the world revolves around us. While many of us are guilty of taking one too many selfies, indulgently curating our Instagram feed and overanalyzing our personal branding, we have exercised a little less of self-absorption and took on a lot more self-awareness. Sandara Park has come a long way from being a cultural foil in the local showbiz plane. Today, she is Dara, 1/3 of K-pop’s darling, 2NE1. But with global fame and a winning endorsement with Penshoppe to…

The original CK One fragrance was quite a sensation. The unisex fragrance, with its ad campaign shot by Mario Sorrenti and fronted by Kate Moss was the scent of a generation. Two decades later, ck2 is taking over, with art world darling Ryan McGinley at the helm of the campaign. The gender-free fragrance is as bold, fresh and free as the millennials it represents with notes of wasabi, mandarin, incense and sandalwood. The bracing new scent befits the ck2 ambassadors who were introduced at the launch held by Coty SEA Inc, the exclusive distributor of all Calvin Klein fragrances, at the SM Makati Concourse. The event was hosted by Jaz Reyes and Jelo Andres and attended by notable personalities, editors, models and bloggers.…

REGULAR LETTERS Hello! Technology has taken over the world and a lot of bloggers have influenced other people’s perspective about fashion and lifestyle. I have seen and checked out most of the social media feeds of the digital superstars you have featured and I must say that they are really the new breed of influencers, and each have a different personality that shines through what they post and share online.— AALIYAH RODRIGUEZ Hi team MEGA! I have wanted to become a dancer for the longest time but it seems that I just can’t get my groove on. They say that you should never give up on something that you really want so I decided to take up dance classes. I’m glad I did because dancing to music makes me so…

1 click. 2 clicks. 3 clicks. Next thing you know you have over a hundred photos of (drum roll, please) yourself. This is most certainly the #selfie generation. From millenials to other generational names, everyone has become increasingly obsessed with the self. But who said a little bit of self-love is bad? This month, MEGA reinforces the fact that this oft misunderstood concept can be less vanity and more self-awareness, mindfulness and self-compassion. In Best Buys we reintroduce the well-loved classics such as wrap dressing, orange and blue pairing, and supple suede, while Retail Trend Report delivers a last hurrah for summer with resortwear from Seek the Uniq. We welcome Anika Martirez into the local fashion scene as she creates wearable pieces for the woman today in New Kids on…

THE LIST: 1 Orange and blue tweed dress by CARVEN. 2 Multi-colored tortoiseshell sunglasses (P1495) by MANGO. 3 Black leather tassel clutch by CHARLES & KEITH. 4 Yellow jersey pleated midi skirt by TOPSHOP. 5 Black curve-bar earrings by TOPSHOP. 6 Blue peep-toe heel by CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN. 7 Orange leather mule (P3995) by ZARA. 8 Navy knotted silk turban by GUCCI. 9 Orange floral-printed crossbody by VALENTINO. 10 Orange printed pajama-style blouse (P2995) by ZARA STYLE TIP Double up on the dynamism—pair the saturated summer hue with a dramatic wine red…

In all the fast-paced flurry of online shopping, quality often ends where convenience begins. But with a flair for singularity and a deep-rooted understanding of what women want, a subversive force stands its ground. Seek the Uniq, with its carefully scoured global finds and convenient interface, is arming local sophisticates with reason to turn back to the virtual world. “We are never about name brands,” says Mikka Padua, the online destination’s founder and esteemed commander-in-chic. Shifting its focus away from the run-of-the-mill and mass-produced, Seek the Uniq sheds a well-deserved limelight on the handpicked and carefully crafted. A befitting avenue for products created with heed, the website is fueled by a balance of respect for both artisans and their patrons. In a timely celebration of the midsummer months, purveyors of…

WHAT IS YOUR FASHION PHILOSOPHY? I’m not much of a girly girl and I tend to lean towards masculine pieces. However, I do make my looks a little more feminine by strategically baring some skin. HOW HAS YOUR A ESTHETIC CHANGED SINCE YOU BEGAN BLOGGING? At first, I was withdrawn when it came to certain trends, but now I’ve become more experimental. I’m known for my black-on-black outfits but I’m now surprised that I’m adding more colors to my wardrobe. ARE YOU A PLANNER OR A SPUR-OF-THE-MOMENT DRESSER? I’m more of a spur-of-the-moment dresser; that’s usually because I’m way too busy or lazy to actually plan, unless it’s for a trip that I need to pack for. Other than that, most of my favorite outfits are the impromptu ones.…

Statuesque, fresh-faced and warm—Jerianne Ejercito-Pena practically ticks off every #goal every woman aspires for. But her supermodel looks are but part of what makes her admirable. More than that, she prides herself in being the mother of 7-year-old Matteo and 2-year-old Mico, as well as being wife to a public servant and helming her own brand activation agency. Starting her career as a Marketing and Media Associate for San Miguel Corporation, Jerianne shares that this invaluable experience has given her the confidence to build her own agency. “Guess what? San Miguel actually became my first client!” she recalls cheerfully. Now on its 12th year in the business, her agency has grown into a powerhouse that services prestigious brands in the Philippines. Apart from a steadfast career in growing a brand’s…

Nicolas Ghesquière is both a traveler and a storyteller. For his spring/ summer ‘16 offering at the French luxury house, Louis Vuitton, he takes us on a digital voyage unlike no other. Instead of relying on theatrics that technology can provide, he references on the past to take the woman to the future. Inspired by the video game Final Fantasy, Ghesquière introduces the concept of the Vuitton warrior—a woman whose appearance is similar to the popular role-playing game. In fighting form, her wardrobe consists of wearable separates created in linen, silk, leather, python and shagreen. Other than its urban appeal, the Vuitton warrior still remains luxurious as Ghesquière uses only premium materials the maison is known for. Remastered and highly wearable, the collection is appropriate for the woman who is…

Selfies—I never really understood what makes them fun or trendy. Taking a photo of oneself and uploading it on social media seems a little too vain for my taste. And while I like the way I look, the hashtag never really appealed to me. But that doesn’t make selfies a bad thing; a healthy appreciation of oneself is very important because if you can’t, then how can others? I say healthy because if you like the way you look that much, you could come face to face with death. Not love as Justin Bieber said in Love Yourself. In fact, there have been a lot of deaths around the world attributed to selfies. A girl from Russia fell off a 28-foot bridge while taking a selfie; another from North Carolina…

“NEVER BELIEVE IN ANYONE WHEN THEY SAY YOU CAN’T MAKE IT. TRUST YOUR OWN INSTINCTS AND FIND OUT” At this point, we already know that a.) life has a pretty absurd sense of humor and b.) life forces us into corners and dangles us over edges only to reel us back in once we’ve flicked the switch of our proverbial light bulb. No one realizes this now more than designer Thons Edano. “I was desperate to purchase a limited edition jacket from one of my favorite brands,” he recalls, taking us way before the brand’s inception. “I even flew to Hong Kong to buy it. Sadly, I was a little late, and even before I got to the store it was already sold out.” But once you get to know…

POOL CLUB The Palace Pool Club is definitely the coolest place to be in the city this summer (or any other season for that matter). With a swimming pool filled with colorful pool toys and the biggest local and international DJs on the decks—it’s no wonder that the club’s guest list is sizzling every weekend. The club features 11 cabanas that are fully equipped with LED televisions, private toilet and bath, as well as a safe and closet for your belongings, and a personal butler to make sure you and your squad are comfortable and focused on one thing—to party. And if you prefer to be in the thick of things, there are public lockers with showers and change rooms available. A wide variety of delicious bar chow and cocktails…

CALL IT MAGIC Cast a spell on those lashes using HYPNOTIC IN BLACKEST BLACK. The mascara’s wand does the magic with a special curved brush that works flawlessly on every single lash, separating and defining them without clumping. A DREAM COME TRUE Intense lash length and definition can now be a reality. FANTASY IN BLACKEST BLACK has a custom triple-helix brush delivering clump-free and magnified mascara finish. It’s the mascara you’ve always wanted. SEE THE GLORY MIRACULOUS IN BLACKEST BLACK brings life to your lashes. The custom-curbed brush helps define the lashes while silicone bristles enhance volume and length. Overall, this mascara gives you the look no one can resist. THAT KIND OF DRAMA In just a few swipes, the MAX VOLUME IN BLACKEST BLACK will give your lashes the…

WHAT IS YOUR BEAUTY PHILOSOPHY? As cliché as it sounds, beauty to me comes from within. It’s the confidence, passion, kindness and generosity within someone that makes them truly attractive. WHAT IS YOUR BEAUTY RITUAL? I always keep my face clean. I believe that keeping it clean truly helps in the long run. So no matter how crazy of a night I’ve had, I will always make my way to the bathroom and make sure every ounce of eyeliner is gone before I go to bed. I also usually don’t wear makeup on regular days because I feel like it’s important to let your skin breathe and rest. WHAT ARE YOUR GO-TO SKIN CARE PRODUCTS? "I use ESTÉE LAUDER Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Recovery Complex (which my mom swears by),…

“SHE IS IN A POSITION TO ENCOURAGE OTHER FEMALES TO FLIP THE TABLES AT A MALE-DOMINATED SOCIETY” The Kardashian clan often makes it to the pages of this magazine. Among the editors here, there is a fascination that ranges from obsessively tracking down all of Kylie’s Lip Kits to debating whether to buy a certain shoe when Kim has worn it (usually a no), but so has Christine Centenera (and Kimye fashion collaborator). Of course, there’s the matter of Caitlyn Jenner who’s coming out moved many of us to tears. So yes, we are pretty much well versed in many things Kardashian, but there are things we don’t all agree on, such as Kim’s naked selfie and her sassy response to its naysayers. Is her unabashed self-obsession helpful to women…

The season’s beauty tip: Go for the basics. Facing the summer heat feels heavy on the skin. Covering up with too much makeup might just add to the dilemma. That’s why Franceska goes for the bare essentials from eb ADVANCE™. EB ADVANCE BB CREAM Summer’s best accessory is flawless skin. It’s easy when you use this blemish balm, available in two variants. Whitening brightens skin and conceals blemishes. Anti-Wrinkle helps reduce fine lines and evens out skin tone. EB ADVANCE PERFECT EYEBROW PENCIL Well-defined brows can already transform your look. Learn the tricks to achieving brows on fleek. Whether it’s black, medium brown or dark brown, decide on the best pencil shade that will help shape and fill your arches. You can also use the product’s easy-gliding comb to tame…

Immortelle Divine Cream (P5900) - This award-winning face cream has extraordinary anti-aging properties from the legendary immortelle flower from Corsica, which never fades, even after being picked. Verbena Eau de Toilette (P2750/100 ml) - The Verbena line was launched back in 2013 along with the Angelica label here in the Philippines. As expected, it has continued its success as one of the brand’s bestselling perfume. Cherry Blossom Eau de Toilette (P2800/75 ml) - Described as rare and precious, the Cherry Blossom line offers a floral fruity scent that will transport you to the cherry-dotted hillsides of southern France with its delicate and fresh scent. L’Occitane’s hand creams are hands down favorites here in MEGA, with the Bergamot Tea and the Roses et Reines versions copping Beauty Awards. To celebrate its…

Spring in South Korea is unlike any other, as the brand new beauty capital of Asia is known to attract tourists looking to unwind and rejuvenate, a far cry from the bustling shopping and eating tours that mark most visits. To celebrate this, the “World’s Best Low Cost Carrier” AirAsia transformed the mezzanine of the Fort’s Active Fun Building into a tiny, nature-inspired spa with bamboo walls, stone gardens and healthy food and drinks from Detoxify Bar. AirAsia’s “Travel to Wellness” campaign was marked by a photo series starring healthy-living personalities Bianca King, Mari Jasmine and Citcit Sioson as they traveled to South Korea’s well-known wellness hubs.…