Table of contents for March 2018 in MEGA

When I was younger, I kept my thoughts to myself. I figured the less I spoke, the less mistakes I made. I didn’t feel confident enough to vocalize my opinion, be judged, or worst, have someone completely go against what I believed in. At that time I felt I didn’t have to share what I was feeling about something or what I stood for because I cared too much about what people would think. That’s why maybe in a way, my language was fashion. I can tell you my story without having to speak. Over time, you will get comfortable with yourself and ultimately live and speak your truth. It took me quite a while to get there, but when I did, I felt a sense of relief and comfort.…

STYLE TIP Cloak yourself with a blazer for that surefire street yet smart look…

If there’s one word that adequately construes Comme Çi, it would be “cool.” The brainchild of designer, Nicole Whisenhunt redefines luxury retail with their distinct approach to curated selections—putting the spotlight on up-and-coming designers and under-the-radar brands. Despite being a newcomer to the retail scene, it’s not farfetched to say that Comme Çi is already changing the game. Attached with an elegant, modernistic disposition, the brand prides itself on having the most discerning edit featuring pieces from Asian brands; bringing their characteristic flair for style that stands out from the rest. Hailing from Thailand, unique labels like Matter Makers, Realistic Situation, and Rotsaniyom take center stage on exhibiting Thai fashion’s prowess—creating threads that are genderless, unique, and accompanied by a progressive attitude, while tradition is twisted by Disaya’s artful pieces.…

Sandy Riccio has a radiant aura to her presence. It might be from the fact that this Italian/Swiss-Filipina gal has always been used to the pleasant mood of the tropics. Having been raised in an island, she lived 16 years of her life dwelling in the experience of beach trips and exploring where the metropolis practically becomes nonexistent. A glance at her beautifully-curated Instagram feed is like being taken on a vacation—resorts, lush foliage, and little tidbits of city travels burnished by warm filters, much like a permanent sun. When it comes to her sartorial sensibilities, Sandy is just as easy-going as her attitude—bringing in a Californian vibe with light, fluid dresses, airy outerwear and a penchant for colorful accessories. Aside from blogging, this girl is a wearer of multiple…

Who could forget last month’s cover with Maymay Entrata? Perched atop the whole city of Heidelberg, she looked every inch a revered royal both with her natural beauty and with the fantasy blue tulle ball gown by Neric Beltran that she was swathed in. “The whole team was on board in creating that look,” the stylist turned designer shares. “Now we’re actually experimenting on how we can make it lighter.” With this much thought and work to the process, it is a little too hard to believe that this would mark the first time his creation has landed on the cover of any magazine. They say timing is everything, and the way ticking of the clock in Neric’s favor couldn’t have been any more perfect. Unlike most designers, Neric’s love…

The celebrated steakhouse, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse by Wolfgang Zwiener has finally opened its second branch in The Podium in Ortigas. This is good news for Filipinos who have taken to the New York City-style of dining. Of all the food trends that have reached local shores, it’s the New York City steakhouse that has completely enraptured Filipino foodies. Everyone, it seems, loves a good steak, especially one that’s been dry-aged with a charred crust and fork-tender middle. Paired with a good red, or even a martini (gin only please), and you’ve got a recipe for a memorable meal. Of the many, many steakhouses that have invaded Manila, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse is perhaps one of the most popular, thanks to its steak—USDA Prime Black Angus beef dried for an average of 28 days—and…

Depending on your generation or musical tastes, Stay Beautiful is either a song by Taylor Swift or the Manic Street Preachers. Either way, this month’s beauty offerings is bound to make you sing out loud. Starting, of course, with an editorial featuring cover girl Kisses Delavin in bold supermodel looks, courtesy of Vice Cosmetics. Color brights continue with another editorial containing our yearly paean to florals (for spring) and pastels in Main Beauty and Rulebook respectively. Of course, we can’t talk about staying beautiful without talking about Madonna; this month we try out her signature facial, aptly called (what else?) the Madonna Facial at The Aivee Institute in Anti-Aging. Keeping to the beat, we delve into something that drops to a minor key—anxiety—and why it’s so prevalent among the young and…

Gabs Gibbs is a girl of many talents, one of which is being able to expertly apply makeup in a moving car. “Sorry I’m a little late!” she exclaims, but makes up for it by already beginning with the base of her makeup on the way to the shoot. From her smooth foundation and contour to her signature thick brows and falsies, one can see that this is something she has done many times in the past. Although initially gaining attention for her famous last name and showbiz pedigree, (father Janno Gibbs and mother Bing Loyzaga both come from celebrated families) Gibbs and her older sister Chi came to their own and rose to digital influencer status with The Gibbs Guide, their interpretation of all things beauty and fashion. From…

Early every summer, the mountain meadows in France’s Drome region light up with the bursting blooms of thousands of Reine des Près flowers. Their fine white petals, which have come to symbolize purity, scent the air with its delicate fragrance, letting everyone know that the new season is here. And while it comes every year, there’s always something different with every advent of summer. This time it’s a reformulated solution and a brand new look for L’Occitane’s illuminating Reine Blanche skincare range. Still at the heart of the collection is the Reine Blanche Complex, which uses naturally radiant organic Reine des Près blooms to achieve a brighter, clearer complexion. To this, L’Occitane has added white mulberry, salicylic acid, vitamin C and White Florentine Iris, producing a rich and potent solution…

No other 59-year-old pop star looks as good as Madonna. From her toned arms and booty, taut tummy and youthful complexion, the Material Girl is a testament to how eating well, exercising like a beast and taking on lovers decades younger can help in the anti-aging department. While not everyone has her level of control and (blond) ambition, nor access to an army of people whose sole work is to make her look, well, like Madonna every single day, there are some things in her playbook that are doable, such as the Madonna Facial, currently available at The Aivee Institute. As a struggling new mom who takes comfort in Cheetos and exercises by breastfeeding my infant at midnight, I am about as far from Madonna in the has-it-together scale, but…

It happens every month, without fail. I’ll be deep in sleep, dreaming of Panaderya Toyo’s sourdoughs when suddenly I’ll be besieged by thoughts, many of them irrational, usually about the magazine that has gone to print. My heart will be pounding, and sometimes I’ll be drenched in cold sweat, wondering if all typos were fixed and credits were done properly. Anxiety isn’t unnatural. Whether it’s butterflies in your stomach before public speaking, a bout of stomach flu before a big exam, anxiety is part of life. “Anxiety is a normal reaction to stress,” says Dr. Maria Teresa Gustilo-Villasor, a licensed psychologist and psychometrician. “It refers to anticipation of a future concern and is more associated with muscle tension and avoidance behavior.” In terms of evolution, anxiety alerts us to dangers…

FASHION ALDO , Greenbelt 3, Shangri-la Plaza Mall, Powerplant Mall, SM Aura, SM Megamall; BERSHKA , SM Aura Premier, SM Megamall, Glorietta 4; CALVIN KLEIN , Greenbelt 5, Shangri-la Plaza Mall, SM Megamall; COCOMELODY , <Unit 604A, 6th Flr., Vicente Madrigal, Ayala Avenue, Makati>; CHARLES & KEITH , SM Megamall, Power Plant Mall; CHLOÉ , Adora Greenbelt 5; DISTINQT , <4/F PCCI Building, L.P., Leviste St., Salcedo Village, Makati>; ENFÖLD, Shangri-La Fort, PCCI Bldg, FENDI , Shangri-la Plaza Mall; FOREVER 21 , SM Mall of Asia, SM Aura, SM Makati, SM Megamall; GIVENCHY , Shangri-la Plaza Mall, Greenbelt 4; GUCCI , Greenbelt 4, Shangri-la Plaza Mall; HERMÈS , Greenbelt 3; H&M , SM Southmall, SM Makati, SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, Uptown Mall; JOSEPH , SM Aura; JIL SANDER…

Dear MEGA, Your February issue with Edward and Maymay on the cover made all our fairytale dreams come true. MEGA truly has the Midas touch and the power to transform each celebrity that graces the cover. Thank you for evolving Maymay into the princess that she really is, and crowning Edward as heartthrob royalty. Their loved-up photos in the castle emulated elegance and romance, evoking iconic love teams that we only see in story books and films. Kudos to the whole team who made the cover possible and dauntlessly braved the shivering cold of Germany’s winter solstice. Congratulations Charmaine May. You win the Healthy Skin Harmony Foundation and Smokey Eye Matte palette from Max Factor. Don’t forget to claim your prize on or before February 28, 2018. Thank you for…

More than ever, this season has a strong message—one of individuality and idiosyncrasy. Now is the time to revel in fashion’s fresh, modernistic approach as we celebrate the new generation’s ingenuity and idealism this month. In Best Buys, we revere the au courant straight off the spring runways with show-stopping sequins, asymmetrical necklines and the regal hue of lavender. In Get Ready To Wear, we explore a glamorous take on chic comfort across the age spectrum. Ever celebrating local creativity, we put the focus on Neric Beltran’s striking designs with the spotlight on jackets and embellishments in Designer Profile. Diving into New Kids On The Block, we break the rules and go beyond the confines of conventional fashion with Patrick Torres’ unique takes to design attached with menswear sensibilities. For…

STYLE TIP Find them tacky? Start small with glitzy accessories…

Smiles have always been the most underrated beauty trick in the book. For Robina Ko, it’s this exact demeanor that gives her an exacting glow, making everyone around her feel welcome and at ease. At 29, Robina is currently pregnant with her second child. While many in her generation would typically still be running the grind and changing the world in their respective industries, she says that motherhood transformed her as a woman. “I always make sure that I get to spend time with my daughter,” she says. “And now that I’m pregnant with my second child, I am really focused on family right now.” Together with her responsibilities as a mother and wife, she is also handling their chain of salons around the country. “I take care of the…

Thismonth,wetacklesomeweighty issues thrust upon Millennials. In Forvm, we talk about our “faves” (artists in the pop culture sphere) and their issues (which range from iffy political affiliations to grave criminal offences). Let him who is without sin cast the first stone—but what if we’re all left holding rocks? In Relationship, one writer weighs on people signing off those much-ballyhooed dating apps; perhaps true romance is incompatible with the internet. Meanwhile, in Feature Story, Associate Editor Angelo Ramirez de Cartagena talks about free speech and the Philippine media in this era of fake news and Facebook. But it’s not all gloom and doom for the young ‘unsthere’s also good things, like vegetarian food that’s sexy, courtesy of three top chefs, in Food. Now, doesn’t that utterly delicious? Get ready to dig…

A good day on my social media timelines means an endless amount of dog videos, Timothée Chalamet tidbits and Tastemade snippets. In fact, if it weren’t for these seemingly inane strongholds, I wouldn’t even be trawling the abyss that is Facebook, Instagram and when I’m really down for it, Twitter. These days, at least for me, logging on doesn’t so much as offer an escape, as it was perhaps intended to be, but it wreaks of piled on negativity and hostility. What about quenching the human thirst for knowledge and the social responsibility to keep up with the times? Forget about it, because the open playing field of the internet has created monsters out of all of us, some for creating and culling fake news and the rest, for countering…

LA PRAIRIE White Caviar Crème Extraordinaire (P36,000)  Lumidose, a molecule that’s "the most effective in supporting the inhibition melanin,” plus rare Golden Caviar and potent salicylic acid combat age spots and sun damage. MURAD Hydra-Glow Aqua Peel (P2750)  A combination of lactic and glycolic acids loosen dead skin and let in hyaluronic acid for intense hydration. Apart from dryness, it targets fine lines and wrinkles. PIXIE Glow Peel Pads (P1390)  Each pad contains a whopping 20% glycolic acid, so those with sensitive skin should tread with caution. This cult-favorite product works great on acne scars and large patches of discoloration.…

Come summer, beauty looks go both ways: bold or barely there. CHANEL Rouge Coco Lip Blush (P1950) is for the latter, perfect for ladies who want nothing more than a candy-stained lip and cheek to lighten up their day. The Rouge Coco line is known for its freedom, creativity and personality, and the brand new Rouge Coco Lip Blush fits the bill completely. It’s a gel formula that feels plush on the lips, while delivering a beautiful stain of color that can be built up or pared down. With six shades ranging from soft pink to luscious berry, there’s a color for every summer mood. And thanks to the Rouge Coco Hydraboost complex, which uses jojoba, mimosa and sunflower oils to drench lips with intense moisture (but still leave a…

Practically everybody wants to be Padma Lakshmi. The farthest thing from being just a beautiful face, the woman has a number of achievements under her belt: actress, model, food expert, The New York Times best-selling author, host and executive producer of Top Chef, and now, a designer of a MAC Cosmetics capsule collection. Inspired by the different cultures she has encountered during her travels, the line features lip products, eye shadows and eye pencils, and a powder blush in sunset tones. It also features three types of brushes for precise application. Because her everyday look is relatively simple (“I don’t think a lot of makeup is needed for every day—you want to save that for a special occasion or at night”), Lakshmi shares that she wanted fresh and essential hues.…

MICRODERMABRASION After cleansing and prepping the skin, microdermabrasion exfoliates the skin using fine crystals. The OxyLight machine has a gentle suction that lifts off dry, dead skin cells. LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE Used to boost circulation and drain away excess fluids, this step not only preps the skin to better absorb the anti-aging serums used in the facial, but it also lessens puffiness in the face. OXYGEN SPRAY A collagen serum is applied to the face, followed by a blast of icy oxygen to hydrate skin and stimulate circulation. It’s quite cold, but also refreshing and relaxing. BIOSONIX ULTRASOUND An anti-aging gel is applied on the face and then an apparatus with different LED lights is massaged on the face; Red is for firming, blue is for acne, yellow is for rejuvenation…

There are several kinds of anxiety disorders: Generalized anxiety disorder involves persistent and excessive worry (usually on everyday things) that interferes with daily activities and may be accompanied by physical symptoms. Panic disorder is recurrent panic attacks, an overwhelming combination of physical and psychological distress. Symptoms may include chest pain, nausea, dizziness. According to to Dr. Gustilo-Villasor, some symptoms are so severe that many people believe they are having a heart attack or other life-threatening illness. The mean age for onset of panic disorder is 22-23 years old. Panic attacks may occur with other mental disorders such as depression or PTSD A specific phobia is excessive and persistent fear of a specific object, situation or activity that is generally not harmful. Examples are fear of flying or fear of spiders.…

Fashion is all about the next big thing. Whether it is the most coveted bag of the season or the newest style star to hit the streets of fashion week, it’s all about reinvention and a welcoming of youthful perspectives. For our March issue, we celebrate that and more as we bring the fresh and ladylike beauty of Kisses Delavin to Prague. Wearing vibrant shades in unconventional silhouettes, Kisses transforms into a young lady ready to take on the world. For our fashion editorials we explored the perfect bridesmaid look with CocoMelody’s latest collection, as well as traveling to Italy in casual elegance with Robinson’s Department Store’s latest offering. An ode to Slavic folklore, Spirited Away is pays homage to the glamorous creations of Amir Sali. Finally, we pump up…

This is the classic Cinderella story come alive through princess @maymay and prince@edward_barber. Dreams do come true.—@dalersmerry on MEGA February 2018 via They are indeed writing their fairytale together. The plot is just starting, but we can’t wait to see their happy ending! Beautiful cover with Maymay’s favorite color! It’s just lovely... dreamy and all things dreams are made of! —@jescel on MEGA February 2018 via WOW! This is the true face of timeless beauty and glam! Congrats and love you both twin @maymay @edward_ barber.—@mileidee827 on MEGA February 2018 via Is it just me? This photo gives the Boys Over Flowers vibe! The outfit & seriousness reminds me of Goo Jun Pyo (F4 Leader) First Class & Royalty!—@realme_roanne12 on MEGA Man February 2018 via For all the covers of…

HEDI SLIMANE TAKES HELM AT CÉLINE Following Phoebe Philo’s exit from Céline, acclaimed menswear designer, Hedi Slimane is joining the French brand and making a major re-emergence in the fashion industry since his departure from Saint Laurent. News of the latest recruitment came early during the Paris men’s fashion shows and got the entire social media land chattering. Slimane is recognized as an esteemed designer in the world of fashion, having transformed Saint Laurent into a modern, youthful brand that’s known for what it is today—blurring the lines of gender and sporting a rock-tinged allure that’s been so beloved since he took helm. Effective February 1, Slimane will serve as artistic, creative and image director of Céline, which means new reinforcements to the iconic LVMH-owned label, extending Céline’s lines to…

20s GAME, SET, MATCH Laid-back dressing steps up with sportswear ensembles that pack a punch THE LIST: 1 Black mesh top (P895) by H&M. 2 Silver slinky chain earrings (P995) by GUESS. 3 Frill-trimmed top (P12,250) by MSGM. 4 Blue seam detail joggers (P2181) by TOPSHOP. 5 Black original strap back hat (P1252) by ADIDAS. 6 Zipped high-neck sweater (P2595) by ZARA. 7 Small top-handle circle crossbody (P3395) by NINE WEST. 8 Mix-printed shirt (P2995) by MANGO. 9 Air Humara ‘17 (P8866) by NIKE. 10 Trousers with side stripe (P3295) by ZARA. 11 White high ankle boots (P15,028) by STUART WEITZMAN STYLE TIP Saddle up with white cowboy booties inspired by the all-American trend 30s LINE ‘EM UP Pleats and color blocked stripes take the spotlight for a sophisticated jet-set…

Impeccable quality—this is the idea that guides Italian label Tod’s when it comes to producing their products. Along with a constant tribute to Italian taste, which is all about a modern and global way of being, it translates to transcendent elegance. For its latest collection, the brand focuses on the classics—picture the timeless silhouette of sport jackets and double-breasted blazers, micro-bombers and bikers, rendered in varied skins that are all about daily luxury. Unexpected details such as a micro-shirt in techno nylon or pyjamas in leather are also prevalent in the collection, alongside pieces such as shorts, skirts and trousers designed in nappa for an extra textural feel. Bottomline, it’s all about the person who wants to look great, but at the same time favors comfort and quality craftsmanship. This…

Patrick Torres is a little bit of a rule breaker. Armed with a discerning eye and a whole lot of courage, this design young blood sees fashion not only as a means of self-expression but a way to defy norms. Incubo, his latest collection, is a true testament to this. The collection’s name translates into nightmares in Italian, and is filled to the brim with symbolism and gender-bending elements. “I played with new silhouettes that are odd and that would catch the public’s eye,” shares the designer. “I added feminine pieces like corsets which signify having a hard time when you’re having a nightmare.” However, Patrick’s connection to his work dips far beyond the seams. His garments reflect not only his personal style, but his own monsters as well. Resolute,…

1. A WRINKLE IN TIME Directed by Ava du Vernay; Starring Oprah Winfrey and Reese Witherspoon This epic adventure brings to life Madeleine L’Engle’s beloved and award-winning science fantasy novel for young adults. The film follows the Murry kids as they search for their lost scientist father, traveling throughout the universe and encountering powerful beings. Opens March 7 2. TOMB RAIDER Directed by Roar Uthaug; starring Alicia Vikander The reboot of the popular Angelina Jolie-led films now stars the Oscar-winning Vikander. Pegged as an origin story, this hotly anticipated film might just change the direction (and expectations) of movies based on video games. Opens March 15 3. MARY MAGDALENE Directed by Garth Davis; starring Rooney Mara, Joaquin Phoenix and Chiwetel Ejiofor Perhaps one of the most misunderstood figures in history…

WINGING OUT Pastel cat-eyeliner was a popular look in the spring/ summer ’18 runways. Use an opaque cream eye shadow to create the line, then add powder eye shadow for a more vivid effect. To anchor the look and define the shape, finish with several coats of dark mascara or apply dark eye liner. TWINKLING EYES Top off pastel shadow with glitter for an extra dimensional effect. Once you’ve pat the twinkly stuff on, decide if you’re going to go for the cool girl look with bare skin and just a touch of color on the cheeks and lips, or go all out with highlights and gloss. Who says pastel is boring? COME TOGETHER One pastel shade is nice, but two is better. Whether you pair similar shades, like the…

As the temperature and humidity soar, so does the need for foundation that will last all day and stay looking fresh. And if that base can also feel comfortable, like a slip of silk floating in the breeze, then all the better. NARS Radiant Longwear Foundation (P2950) checks all those requirements and offers up to 33 shades to cover almost every skin tone. This base is the latest to join the ranks of NARS’ cult favorite foundations, beloved for their texture, wear and finish. The Radiant Longwear Foundation promises up to 16 hours of wear and medium-to-full coverage; the finish is natural (just a touch moist so even those with oily skin can cop the dewy look), soft and skin-like. On top of all of that, it has nourishing raspberry,…