SPARK_ISSUE_5

FASHION / MODERN DESIGN / FAR-OUT LIFESTYLES

WORLD EXCLUSIVE: Photographed and styled by the spark team

CAMILA alves LIVES HER aMERICAN DREAM

the TV host and model Opens Up about her past, and life with matthew mcconaughey

//// MAGGIE WILSON-CONSUNJI’s next chapter //// heir artist: Nicole Sy-Coson //// GP Reyes’ double life //// martin margiela and la Maison Champs-Elysées hotel //// BLOGGER mike lim makes waves online //// ferdie ong’s success story Sep 2011 P199

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contents

fashion and beauty 10 OBECT OF DESIRE FOR HER 12 OBJECT OF DESIRE FOR HIM 14 HONESTLY RECOMMENDED FOR HER/FASHION 18 HONESTLY RECOMMENDED FOR HIM/FASHION

20 HONESTLY RECOMMENDED FOR HER/BEAUTY 22 HONESTLY RECOMMENDED FOR HIM/GROOMING 40 BEYOND JUST AESTHETICS 74 CAMILA: AMERICAN DREAM 82 MAGGIE WILSON-CONSUNJI: GLORY BOX 92 STORE INFO 100 CURATED SHOPPING

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people pieces places 24 DAYLIGHT STORIES 32 MERCURY RISING 36 TONGUE IN CHIC 44 NICOLE SY-COSON 52 TECH SAVVY 54 NIGHT VISIONNAIRE

in out and about 90 VOLVO S60 T6 EXPANDING YOUR VOCABULARY 94 FLEURS D’INDIENNES 95 A BLINDING TWIST 96 POWER TRIP 98 FIRST RATE BEAUTY 104 FINE DINING

60 A MAISON MARGIELA 68 SWIMMING IN SUCCESS

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Editorial Director & Guest Editor Kariz Tanya Favis Creative Director Martin Favis SPARK Europe EIC Carla Sibal Contributing Editor Valerie Anne del Castillo Associate Editor Irish Degala Production Manager & Graphic Artist Mark Cabalang Graphic Artists Byron Henry Santiago Mark Francis Carandang

BC LUXE MEDIA INC.

Chairman Contributing Writers Kariz Tanya Favis Bianca Salonga, Marilyn Barton, Dr. Windie Hayano, Ana Santos, Jinkie de Jesus, AG Puyat, Patrick Michael Balo, President Verlaine Ramos-Marquez, Clarissa Chikiamco, Carla Sibal Bambi Ortañez, Paul Sinnaco, Jona Conopio Vice President & Publisher Contributing Photographers Job Ambrosio Benjo Billones, Jo Ann Bitagcol, BJ Pascual, At Maculangan, Paolo Buendia, Diego Jose, Paola Aseron, Treasurer Jerome Apostol, Miguel Yatco Martin Favis Contributing Stylists Edlene Cabral, Reena Collantes

Group Associate Publisher Victor Aliwalas

Make-up Artists Al de Leon, Melchor “Angelu” Dominguez, Leo Posadas Hair Stylist Bullet Cruz, Jayson delos Reyes, Raymond Ko, Felicity Son Cover Image Martin & Kariz Tanya Favis Styling Kariz Tanya Favis Make-up K.C. Fee Hair Patricia Morales

Finance Manager Charina Mitra Advertising Manager Jeyme Azarraga-Morallo

Account Manager Maricel Bancolita SUBSCRIPTIONS info@bcmedia.ph SPARK OFFICE BC Luxe Media Inc. Unit 2C Building C 2316 Karrivin Plaza Pasong Tamo Extension, Makati City PHILIPPINES T +63 2 889 6904 E info@bcmedia.ph www.sparkmag.ph Reproduction without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. For advertising, subscriptions, back orders or other inquiries, please call (927) 530 5913, (939) 130 0997, (63) 2 889 6904.

Unsolicited contributions must be submitted with a stamped self-addressed envelope if they are to be returned. The magazine cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, artwork or photography or for materials lost or damaged in the mail. Opinions expressed in this magazine are solely those of the writers and not necessarily endorsed by BC LUXE MEDIA, INC.

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

world domination, i hope

Job Ambrosio with Kariz Tanya Favis and Carla Sibal

I was actually Carla Sibal’s lawyer when she founded SPARK Magazine almost a year ago. I handled SPARK’s requirements for intellectual property and contracts. At that time, Carla was a one-woman show. I’m sure she could have done it by herself, but then the businessman in me had an idea. Thus, in one of my meetings with Carla, I suggested that she partner with a team that can help her manage the magazine so that she could focus on being Editor in Chief.

She agreed, and that’s when I introduced her to Martin and Kariz Tanya Favis. Martin and Kariz are friends of mine who founded BC Magazine, a widely successful US publication that recently launched its Philippine franchise.

So we struck a deal and SPARK became a title under the BC Media group, while I suddenly found myself publisher of SPARK. Since then, we have successfully published five issues and our online fan base has grown substantially in the few months since we started. Among the Philippine luxury magazines, SPARK has the most online fans, also because our readers are of the young, hip and jet-setting generation.

This is my first note as a publisher and I thought it apt to make my writing debut in this issue as SPARK will be embarking on ambitious and hopefully, rewarding journeys.

First, we will be launching SPARK Magazine in the United States early next year, together with our BC partners.

Second, our dear EIC Carla Sibal will be venturing to London this year to plant the seeds for SPARK Europe. Third, we are expanding SPARK in other Asian markets such as Hong Kong, Singapore and China. With these three markets—US, Europe and Asia—SPARK will be able to provide content that can give its readers both local and global perspectives on fashion, modern design and far-out lifetsyles.

Job Ambrosio Publisher

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Camila Alves with photographer and SPARK Creative Director Martin Favis, Top Right: SPARK’s Kariz Tanya Favis and Stephen Seidel prepping the location

empire state of mind Around 6 years ago, my husband, then-baby daughter, overweight Labrador retriever, and I left for the U.S. to establish a publishing company. Armed with suitcases of clothes, we left a semi-comfortable life in Manila with literally everything we’ve got that matters, to brave a new world where hopes are realized and broken everyday. Perhaps it was foolhardy—or maybe because we were younger and ballsier then—we launched BC U.S., a family lifestyle magazine which began as Baby Couture, a children’s fashion title. We made New York our hub, and settled down in Beverly Hills for the last two years of our living in the States. Fastforward to today, and that magazine has recently borne its first “franchise,” a Philippine-edition of BC. In the process of making the aforementioned, our friend and now publisher, Job Ambrosio, introduced us to SPARK’s founder, the eversvelte, smart, and stunning Carla Sibal—and soon enough, a partnership was forged.

In a fever pitch, now is the best time as any to start spreading the news, SPARK’s ‘leaving’ for New York—concrete jungle where dreams are made, in the words of Jay-Z. We will of course, coast to California—where the grass is really greener, as Katy says. Both NY and CA are home to our brood, so it’s only fitting that we raise our new ‘baby’ in both places. To my knowledge, BC is the first and only Filipino-owned publication that competes in the cutthroat American market, and we’re carrying out another breakthrough with SPARK: taking a Philippine-born title and exporting it to the biggest playing field as far as media goes. In Carla’s words, SPARK is all about ‘rarefied pursuits’—and what is more challenging and blood-rushing than the chase of the American Dream? As we begin that journey, we have the headturning Camila Alves (Brazilian model and domestic partner to Matthew McConaughey) on our cover, which my husband and I photographed and styled. I also write about Camila’s very own success story on p. 74.

Although Martin Margiela may not be physically and socially visible, his genius work both in fashion and design has immortalized him. SPARK brings you the Philippine exclusive of his latest collaboration with another maison in Paris.

Margiela’s flair, however avant-garde for some tastes, cannot be denied.

Since the SPARK U.S. cat is out of the bag, I’m thrilled to announce that our very own Carla has begun to set the foundation for SPARK Europe. Exciting things are happening simultaneously, so I hope you come as we traverse on this journey.

Kariz Tanya Favis Editorial Director

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object of desire

Shape-Shifter Leather continues to wow us this season in myriad creations and a host of ultraluxe textures. This triangleshaped, spacious tote is characterized by perforated nappa fetucce—or intrecciato rete. Relatively unconstructed, the bag has a generous volume that folds in on itself, imparting a soft, slouchy look. The handles can be extended long enough to fit on the shoulder. Bottega Veneta mixes practicality with extravagance. Made from the supplest of skins, this carryall will add a bit of bite to any wardrobe.

Buttermilk Intrecciato Rete Nappa Tote by Bottega Veneta available at Greenbelt 4

/ / / / Words Irish Degala Image Benjo Billones

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object of desire

EYE ATTRACT A classic pair of sunnies is all you need for a dash of understated cool.

And if you want to make the final eye statement, you cannot go wrong with these pieces. Work and rock these classic Bvlgari frames for an instant style update.

Black metal sunglasses with pink gold plaque and gun metal ceramic dĂŠcor. Limited edition double-bridge aviator sunglasses with natural horn temples and grey gradient lenses. Limited edition double-bridge aviator sunglasses with natural horn temples and brown gradient lenses all by Bvlgari available at Greenbelt 5 / / / / Words Irish Degala Images Courtesy of Bvlgari

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WITH HIS FALL/WINTER 2011-2012 COLLECTION FOR LOUIS VUITTON, MARC JACOBS EXPLORED THE MYSTERIOUS ALLURE OF FASHION AND FETISH. “FETISH,” SAys THE DESIGNER, “HAS A POSITIVE SIDE. IT’S AN INEXPLICABLE SORT OF CONCENTRATION ON, OR OBSESSION WITH SOMETHING. I THINK THAT ALSO MEANS COMMITMENT AND DISCIPLINE.” THE RESULT WAS A POWERFUL COLLECTION THAT WALKED THE FINE LINE BETWEEN MODESTY AND PROVOCATION, REASON AND IRRATIONALITY— AN AMBIGUITY EVIDENCED BY THE JUXTAPOSITION OF TIGHTNESS OF FOCUS WITH RICHNESS OF DETAIL / / / / Images Courtesy of Louis Vuitton (Philippines) Pte Ltd.

First, the focus. Strict silhouettes suggestive of corsets, mannish, military-style jackets and coats softened by ample drop shoulders and nipped in at the waist with a hand stitch, demure blouses done up at the back with shiny black buttons, plain knits with Belle de Jour style white collars rendered in patent leather—all in a near monochrome palette of black, grey, navy and white, occasionally interspersed with ruby, emerald and nude beige.

With the exception of jodhpurs and their suggestion of dressage discipline or military uniform, the collection majored on skirts and dresses, as Marc Jacobs toyed with the idea of French maids and their bourgeois mistresses.

The opening look featured a pencil skirt interpreted in sheer crin, revealing the pants and stockings beneath, while other silhouettes followed a softer A-line, notably skirts with paillettes mimicking python scales, and a series of feminine forties crepe dresses that appeared prim and proper, yet on closer inspection revealed fetish motifs of masks, shoes and gloves.

Next, the detail—evidence of an artisanal devotion to craft which, in the words of the snow notes, is “the apotheosis of fetish.” Those mask, shoe and glove motifs, for instance, were not printed, but painstakingly sewn in intricatelycut sequins. The aforementioned jodhpurs featured handstitched leather panels, while a neoprene guipure dress and coat were re-embroidered by hand with sequins and beads.

The obsession with detail extended to an elaborate and innovative treatment of fabric—from the car paint shine on a patent leather and Shetland wool sweater to the lacquered Monogram lace of a blouse, from the combination of shiny

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python and double-faced cashmere on a dark red coat dress, to the juxtaposition of clipped Mongolian fur and rubberized guipere lace on the jacket worn by Kate Moss in the finale.

The show’s accessories had fun with the fetish theme.

Standouts included officer’s caps in fluffy shearling and masks worn in the hair as neo-tiaras. Sometimes, like tiaras, they were paved with diamonds, while at others they were lacquered, dipped in rubber or sprayed with car paint. Rich leather gloves accompanied many looks, while cordovan corset belts cinched the waist as securely as crocodile handcuffs did the wrists.

Shoes played with two facets of fetishism. The girly charm of rounded-toe pumps was accentuated by delicate bow straps, which morphed into sexy laces or daring bondage on the collection’s leg-hugging boots. Heels were chunky and super high, while materials ran the gamut from crocodile and python through calf to rubber—shiny rubber boots were a standout—and contrasted glossy, vinyl-effect finishes with a matte latex look.

The show’s ultimate and not-so-obscure object of desire was the iconic Lockit bag, created in 1958 and reinterpreted in myriad guises: in shiny Monogram canvas or total-look shearling, in rubberized leather accented with glossy tape, in jewel shades of patent Monogram bouclette, and in nylon with resin handles. The spotlight was turned on the Locklit’s distinctive lock and key, while at times a handcuff made the bag literally inseparable from its wearer, as in the case of an 18-carat gold minaudiére or a crocodile clutch with a padlock and handcuff in white gold with pavéd diamonds. / / / /

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In the setting of a great metropolis, perfectly attuned to the open spaces of any big city, this is a collection that brings freedom of movement and a contemporary edge to couture / / / / Images Courtesy of Emporio Armani

Emporio Armani Men’s Fall Winter 2011 Collection

Never so fluid and lightweight as today, with not a trace of an imaginary life among trees and meadows, this season, we are plunging into an intensely realistic urban townscape. Here we find overcoats, sometimes combined with waistcoats, to provide protection and warmth, while projecting a completely new image. This year shoulders are understated but lengths are impressive, 130 centimetres, the cut is fitted and pared down, with special attention paid to the construction of the collar – asymmetric, double, standup with flap fastening against the cold – all contributing to a deconstructed silhouette.

Goodbye to nylon and quilting, this is the year for wool in a range of treatments (for instance boiled wool, in a precious combination with alpaca), nubuck style sheepskin and leather for a reassuring sense of solidity, maintained through a range of jackets in streaked wool with needle punch effects that seem scratched into the pile. This treatment recurs throughout the accessories, shoulder bags, bags and shoes, which as ever reference and emphasise the key themes of the collection.

Among the most innovative designs of this season, trousers that unite the casual and sporty—knit edging at the hem, which can be concealed by the full length of the leg— with the elegant aplomb of the tailored darts at the waist, absolutely typical of the Armani style.

The colour spectrum is precisely defined: camel; grey marl in a range from medium to dark; black for long overcoats and formal wear. / / / /

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opposite page (clockwise): Luke Evans, Alison Balsom and Roberta Armani. Mauro Bergamasco. Giorgio Armani.

Ennio Fantastichini.

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From haute leather accessory piece, seductive scent, to edge cutting serum, here are SPARK’s picks that make the cut to please both temptress and techie alike

SQUARE PEG

GLAM SLAM

POCHETTE SAFFIANO LUX NERO BAG BY PRADA

EYE COLOURS BY LAURA MERCIER

EYE-CARAMBA

VOLUME GALORE

Swing this season’s sleek clutch bag to top off your ensemble. Just remember to downsize your belongings.

Whether it’s to dodge the paparazzi or hide panda eyes, this pair of sunnies has been elevated to the ranks of “It” accessories.

SUNGLASSES BY PRADA

SOLE STUDDED

Access your feline charm and set the gold standard with these pair of chic, gilded pumps.

SADDLE SOFT TAMPONATO TESTA MORO HEELS BY GUCCI

UNIQUE CHARM

Accent your most prized handbag with this classic printed handkerchief. Now that’s an added value.

WHITE PRINTED HANDKERCHIEF BY HERMèS

SPOT COUTURE

Helps enhance the performance of intensive whitening.This product treats and prevents the appearance of dark spots.

PERFECT WHITE PEARL LILY COMPLEX ADVANCED MELANIN DIET RENEWING ESSENCE INTENSE WHITENING BY GUERLAIN

SHADY BUSINESS

Create a seductive look by wearing this fabulous, rich and creamy new lip color that will boost the sensuality of your lips on every occasion.

PURECOLOR LIPSTICK BY ESTéE LAUDER

WHITE OBSESSION

This blissfully light and luxurious cream drenches the skin with moisture as it lightens, brightens, and lifts, giving you a more even skin tone, with improved firmness as luminosity is restored and amped to a glowing radiance.

WHITE CAVIAR ILLUMINATING CREAM BY LA PRAIRIE

FLAWLESS FIND

Take your lashes to new heights with this multitude of bristles that separate lashes for a fanned-out effect. Its in-built wiper system removes excess mascara, wiping the brush free of clumps.

CURL-FIXING VOLUME MASCARA CURL IMPACT COLLAGENE BY L’ORéAL PARIS

DREAM CREAM

Get a grip on this new Hydro Boost line, and fight middle dryness.

Revitalize dehydrated and sleepy skin.

HYDRO BOOST CLEAR LOTION BY NEUTROGENA

RADIANT HIGHLIGHT

Take your place in the sun without ever leaving the shade and achieve a naturally sunkissed look using this jumbo-sized version of the wildly popular Mineral Glow bronzing powder.

ALL-OVER GLOW FACE AND BODY BRONZER BY PÜR

LADIES’ CHOICE

Ensure that he remembers your name with this unforgettable, irresistible fragrance. Reflect the charisma admired by men, a touch of warm sensuality and a floral feminine scent.

DESIRE ME EAU DE PARFUM BY ESCADA

PROFILE PIECE

Keep in touch with the new Nokia C7. It’s no slouch in terms of technical specification, featuring a large 3.5 inch AMOLED glass capacitive touch screen able to display 720p videos, and the case design is at less than 11mm.

C7 SMARTPHONE BY NOKIA

SKIN CENTRAL

A centuries-old tradition made from Rosa centifolia for astringent and toning. Rose water is fresh and mildly fragrant; use this as a skin toner for the face and as a refreshing body rub and perfume.

CASA FONDATA ACQUA DI ROSE 250ML P995 BY OFFICINA PROFUMO-

Not only does it cover flaws, it primes skin for perfect make-up application. Blends easily to cover and brighten dark circles while maintaining skin’s moisture levels for a virtually lineless look.

FARMACEUTICA

BEIGE CREAMY CONCEALER AND PALE YELLOW SHEER FINISH PRESSED

Perfumed dry body oil of an exceptional delicacy which nourishes, regenerates and softens. Rich in sweet almond oils, it restores the suppleness of the skin, thus fighting against aging.

POWDER BY BOBBI BROWN

/ / / / Words and Styling Irish Degala Image Byron Henry Santiago

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The chic, almost retro compact snaps open to reveal an edgy collection of eye shades.

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NO SCRUB

VANILLE EXQUISE HUILE PARFUMÉE PUR LE CORPS 100ML P3,250 BY ANNICK GOUTAL PARIS

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For the self-confident, contemporary gentleman with impeccable taste, here is a roundup of great style and grooming products of the finest quality— for the connoisseurs’ collections that perfectly match one’s personal choice.

TOTE FOR LOOT

Whether you’re traveling to work across the town or country, treasure yourself by packing up your essentials in this stylish Salvatore Ferragamo messenger shoulder bag.

BLACK CALFSKIN LEATHER MESSENGER BAG BY SALVATORE FERRAGAMO

IN YOUR SOLE

There’s nothing quite like a Salvatore Ferragamo loafer. This understated but utterly distinctive shoe is the result of careful craftsmanship, precise attention to detail, and an unerring sense of style. Its sleek design will stand out for all the right reasons.

HICKORY CALF LEATHER BROWN SHOES BY SALVATORE FERRAGAMO

BUSINESS GRADE

The Nokia E7 is a new Smartphone, with a 4-inch touch screen display and a slide out QWERTY keyboard. The E7 comes packed with goodies, including GPS, Wi-Fi, and free navigation courtesy of Ovi Maps, and an 8 megapixel camera. This device is for business savvy people. To spice things up a bit, it comes with 16GB of built-in storage for all your media content.

E7 BUSINESS SMARTPHONE BY NOKIA

SCIENCE OF SCENT

Embodies a clean modern fragrance, to give men a sparkling, fresh and sensual feel. The spirits of this perfume unveil the scents of bergamot lemon, ylang ylang and earthy tones of vetivert tonka basil. Its arresting breeze gives off a long-lasting delight to the senses.

V EAU DE COLOGNE 120ML BY GENDARME P2,950

SHAVING SHACK

Soft and luxurious shaving foam, rich in valuable moisturizing substances including plant Glycerin with strong humectants and emollient properties for a smoother, easier shave while moisturizing and nourishing the skin without the risk of irritations.

SHAVING CREAM BY CLIVEN

YEARS YOUNGER

Vitamin-enriched and energizing non-oily moisturizer wakens and uplifts dull skin. It helps defend the skin against early signs of aging, notable surface wrinkles and loss of firmness. Enriched with Vitamins C and E extracts, it helps combat the effects of environmental stress for healthy, manly skin.

FACIAL FUEL ANTI-WRINKLE CREAM SKIN TREATMENT FOR MEN BY KIEHL’S

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SWEAT SMART

Non-greasy and alcohol-free, Acca Kappa’s 1869 deodorant spray’s non-occlusive consistency leaves the pores free to breathe. By combining the purifying and deodorizing properties, it achieves lasting elimination of undesirable odors. It leaves the skin with a long-lasting sensation of softness and tingling freshness.

1869 DEODORANT SPRAY ALCOHOL FREE BY ACCA KAPPA 125ML P895

FACE FORWARD

A face moisturizer developed with a patented complex of purifying peppermint essential oil that immediately hydrates your skin and provides an intense sensation of comfort by giving an instant boost to achieve resilience towards environmental aggressors, and helps to preserve a youthful appearance.

VERDON ENERGY MOISTURIZER BY L’OCCITANE EN PROVENCE P1,900

FIRST IMPRESSION

A fresh, light and peppery fragrance that can be worn everyday.

A work of celebrated perfumer Alberto Morillas, top notes include Peru balm, fir, myrrh, and coriander. It has a masculine blend of herbs while the base is laced by light, musky tones. Spray this on for that lasting first impression.

OXYGENE HOMME BY LANVIN

ACNE AWAY

Ever worry about “bacne”? This Murad Acne Body Wash can control body breakouts through its gentle triple-action to exfoliate deep pores, eliminate pore-clogging impurities and prevent future blemishes without redness and irritation.

ACNE BODY WASH 250ML BY MURAD P1,750

ONE MAGNIFICENT TIE

Let a necktie provide the finishing touch to your wardrobe. A fashion essential that will lead the way to a sophisticated style and look, this piece will be a good addition, even to an already diverse collection of ties.

NECKTIES BY EMPORIO ARMANI P5,850

/ / / / Words and Styling Irish Degala Image Byron Henry Santiago

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A weekend at Peninsula Punta Fuego is as much an escape from city life as it is an architectural splendour. Join us as we take a closer, more intimate look at the minimalist home by Mendoza+O'ConnOr, that served as the venue for the first ever SPARK White Party

Day light mendoza O’Connor:

Stories

In the world of architecture, a fresh eye for design, strong technical backbone and vision play an essential part in creating projects that withstand time. Mark O’Connor, senior partner at Mendoza+O’Connor Architects is a living testament to this tried and tested formula. After a slew of successful upscale projects that include Discovery Shores and the model units of The Residences at Greenbelt, his outlook in design shines ever brighter with a streamlined geometric masterpiece located at the posh Peninsula Punta Fuego. / / / / Words Jinkie de Jesus Images Paolo Buendia

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a dv e rto r i a l

The six-hectare Azure development features the man-made beach and the Beach Club as its piece de resistance

Century Properties brings Paris to Manila Style icon and international celebrity tapped to design Azure Beach Club In August, international celebrity and business woman Ms. Paris Hilton arrived in the Philippines to design the Azure Beach Club, the central amenity of Century Properties’ Azure Urban Resort Residences development in Parañaque City.

Century Properties Managing Director Robbie R. Antonio and Ms. Paris Hilton met earlier this year in the United States for the project collaboration with the leading real estate firm. “We chose Ms. Paris Hilton because of her exposure to travel and her predisposition to many aspects of design – from fashion, beauty, lifestyle to world-class service. Working with her was the logical choice as we found no other personality more suited to embody the upscale fashionable beachgoer.”

John Victor Antonio, the company’s Chief Operating Officer and Azure’s Project Head, made the announcement a week prior her visit. Asked why Century chose Paris as the designer, he said: “Her unparalleled style that made her a successful businesswoman and a style icon, as well as her zest for living the good life are the qualities that we wanted incorporate into our vacation-inspired residential property Paris had a series of meetings in Manila with Century’s creative team to design the Beach Club amenity of Azure, the property developer’s six-hectare residential development in the southern part of Manila that features a resortinspired theme complete with a sizeable man-made beach.

In a statement, Ms. Paris Hilton said: “It was a pleasure visiting the

Philippines, and the people there are just wonderful. Designing Azure’s beach club is such a great experience for me and I like involving myself in projects that pertain to a quality of lifestyle that is both aspirational and inspirational. My contribution to designing the Azure Beach Club in the Philippines was simply nature taking its course because I am very passionate about creating designs and spaces that people can experience and enjoy.”

Azure Urban Resort Residences was launched in 2010 and has since sold out almost four out of a total of nine proposed residential buildings.

Designed by the award-winning masterplan and architectural firm Broadway Malyan, each tower is set in a breathtaking tropical modern aesthetic and named after the world’s

(Left) Century Properties Managing Director Mr. Robbie R. Antonio and Ms. Paris Hilton at the Azure Press Conference (Top) Century Properties Managing Director Mr. Robbie R. Antonio and Chief Operating Officer Mr. John Victor R. Antonio with Ms. Paris Hilton

most famous beach destinations: Rio, Santorini, St. Tropez and Positano among others.

A kidney bean-shaped clubhouse complements an organically formed lustrous landscape that capitalizes on the uniqueness of the expansive manmade beach. This in turn asserts a sense of identity and legibility to the different character areas within the site. Other amenities like an open park, zen garden, multiple playgrounds, lap pool with cascading waterfalls, kiddie water slide, poolside bar, beach volleyball area and a basketball court have been incorporated into the master plan, adding rich diversity to a natural environment that supports recreation, health and well being.

Century Properties said that Paris will not only be the official ambassador of the project but is likewise an integral part in the concept and design of the Azure Beach Clubhouse. “We put our absolute trust in Paris’ abilities to fullyintegrate a superior lifestyle that cannot be found elsewhere in the country.

This is of utmost importance to us as developers and to our clients,” said Mr. Robbie Antonio.

Ms. Hilton was made in charge of designing of the aesthetic components of the beach club while Century Properties will be in charge of the design implementation.

Visit www.azure.com.ph or call + 632 818-9041 or +63 917-5555 274.

A self-confessed perfectionist, O’Connor had managed to create an abode that seamlessly merges a breathtaking 360-degree view of the sea, function in each space, stateof-the-art technology and supreme design aesthetics.

He enthuses, “To date, this (Fuego beach house) is my favourite project. It is a big opportunity for our office to showcase our approach in architectural design. It is not only my favourite but also the most comprehensive and challenging project. It allowed us to experiment and explore new technologies which are not common in the current conventional construction of residential projects.” The home encompasses trend while at the same time setting its distinct identity. The use of white, wood and glass creates a pristine look which still manages to blend with the lot’s natural terrain. Daylight throughout the structure was an essential integration as opposed to being an afterthought.

In each space, a subtle elegance resounds, resulting to a well-orchestrated sensorial experience. “We worked very hard from the conceptualization up to the construction to create this masterpiece,” opines O’Connor.

For a project of this calibre, one is inclined to look beyond the finished product and delve into the thought process that went into the completion of a home that may, on the onset, seem overly ambitious. O’Connor explains, “The main idea of the house is to interrelate an open geometric structure with nature and its picturesque landscape. The structure had to be a balance of linear forms with practical function of spaces.” While most houses take approximately a year and a half till completion, this one took more time as the firm had worked alongside its clients throughout each step of the building process—from lot selection, revision of schemes and construction proper.

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As with all other groundbreaking ideas, several challenges had to be addressed, which added greater depth to the unique beauty of the house. “The property is located on the highest peak so we had to consider extreme weather conditions especially during rainy season. Every architectural component had to be structurally sound to withstand wind velocity,” sites O’Connor while adding, “At the same time, we wanted to implement complex ideas and concepts. Since we don’t have this kind of glass technology in our country yet, we had to order special structural glass from Singapore. With too much glass, however, heat penetrates faster so our solution was to add on a mechanical retractable ceiling.”

Throughout the house, a steel beam design was utilized to create a more flexible frame. Wide fenestrations with a spat of up to six-meters were unsparingly used to pave the way for greater views. Keeping in mind the main function of the beach house, O’Connor created special spaces for the homeowner and guests to fully enjoy. He describes, “The infinity effect of the swimming pool is the main feature of the house going 25-meters long. The dry sauna on the deck comes with glass walls and door to allow one to enjoy the view while relaxing. The house also has a six-seater outdoor Jacuzzi that is integrated on to the wood deck and is strategically located on the highest level of the third floor. Finally, a sunken garden was created with a 14-foot trampoline for an outdoor playground system.”

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Material selection is also an essential element in making O’Connor’s vision a reality. “There’s a lot to be considered in building a structure near the sea and one important pointer is not to use ordinary steel in exposed areas. Steel rapidly rusts which is why stainless steel and powder-coated aluminium materials were specified,” the architect shares.

Similarly, PVC doors and windows had been installed to withstand extreme tropical weather. With glass being a main element of the design as seen in the decks, heat had also become a major concern. “So that we were not limited in the size of the fenestrations, one solution is to apply architectural clear tints that block 90 percent of infrared heat,” he states. With these design considerations coming to play, O’Connor had managed to create infinite openness to every space.

The verve and energy that resonate through O’Connor’s work speak volumes of the new philosophy and ideals that will shape Philippine architecture. “I prefer not to use labels. To me, it’s simply architecture. I am not a believer in ‘isms.’ They come and go. And the only thing that survives is architecture. This craft should not speak of its time and place but yearn for timelessness.” While there is certainly a brand of freshness about the concepts he brings to the table, O’Connor’s foresight reflect the kind of maturity and genius that architectural greats possess. / / / /

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The heat is on as Spark goes online with the gallant Canadian Cool hunter, Alexandra Suhner Isenberg, whose sticky and provocative online portal/ alterego, Searching for Style, raises more than a few temperatures with her formulative wisecracks that dispel contemporary heroine chic / / / / Words Bambi Ortañez

Mercury At the Hellenistic helm of an ever-evolving Information and Aesthetic age, a mercurial Canadian writer raises the boiling point of chic partisanship by blazing the blogosphere with her opinionated, au courant sling inks on the fashion industry. Her espresso campaigns and value judgments are revolutionary, tipping off a style spectacle/phenomenon based on fashion fascism, executive critique and democratic integrity. Her fierce flare for fashion journalism is fuelled by the erudite personas of Vanessa Friedman, Suzy Menkes and Cathy Horyn whose rather renowned lingua francas share a common swagger for transparency and information empowerment. “I am not afraid to say what I think and that is why my blog is successful. My readers appreciate that I am honest and frank,” muses the acid-thumbed Isenberg.

Perhaps it was the regenerative and cathartic inspirations of the 1970’s Halston and the emblematic photography of Helmut Newton, whose eclectic and bold bodies of work continue to draw provocative inspiration for this intrepid blogger. “There aren’t enough journalists who are critics.

I feel that more people need to be honest and frank in the industry, rather than always being afraid of upsetting big brands or well-known celebrities.”

Engineered by her early affinity with the aesthetics, she started fashion illustration at the tender age of 8. “My parents encouraged me to take classes in the arts as a child.

I grew up practicing a lot of creative disciplines; I painted, I

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drew, did pottery, jewelry making and architecture courses.

My mother used to read French fashion magazines and I would read them too.” Somehow her flair for the European civilization has eventually led her to the stable fashion houses of Central Saint Martins where she earned her MA in fashion design. Under the strict mentorship of her course director, Prof. Louise Wilson, Isenberg was more than prepared for the fashion world and beyond it. A creative entrepreneur, she spun off her own luxury lingerie brand, State of Undress, which flamed the prestigious boudoirs of luxury havens. “My strengths are my organization skills and time management. I get a lot done simply because I know how to manage my time. I teach fashion at a local school and so did at Saint Martins when I lived in London.”

Further honing her technical and creative temperaments, she pursued a one-year stint at the prestigious Le Chambre Syndicale de la Coutoure Parisenne whose alumni humbly includes Yves Saint Laurent and Carla Bruni–Sarkozy.

Recounting her first brush with the proverbial catwalk, she interned at the great fashion houses of Burberry and Sonia Rykiel, the latter of which holds her fondest memories. “I interned at Sonia Rykiel, which was a great and exciting professional experience because I got to see first hand how a major luxury brand works. It was the beginning of my fashion career with my first real fashion show that took place in the Moulin Rouge. Naomi Campbell, Stella Tennant and Kristy Hume were all models. I was a dresser and couldn’t believe the exciting chaos going on backstage. “ It is in the same breath that she now allies and elevates her fashion pursuits to her digital platform, Searching for Style. “The blog’s tagline is fashion and opinion, and it really is about my opinion, but I also like to inform and educate, hence the Fashion 101 series.” Tackling a broad spectrum of fashion activity from the legendary production process of Hermès bags to mining for yellow African

Portrait Image Leigh Keily

An ocean of histories tides its way to pictographs and photo streams. Soul imprints of epic gladiators have upheld civilizations through the rise and fall of incalculable empires. Cultural and Industrial Revolutions, dating back to the age of antiquity, have affirmed the pursuit of man’s reverence for the noble truths and virtues. Indentations of mortals with their characteristic fiber have made them enduring in psyche and memory.

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diamonds and even child labor issues—Isenberg anchors and encapsulates the fashion industry on a 360-degree. As the fashion industry is perceived to be a “social connector,” Isenberg with her relativist, if not realist account, coupled by not a few critical remarks, directs to bring and present together the many sectors of the fashion world, account by bridging style and contemporary and economic sensibilities to her platform. By demonstrating an insider’s educated account to the subjects at hand, she gains further authority to the fashion blogging world.

Weaving a common thread, Isenberg confirms that some fashion gems have indeed transcended the zeitgeist limits to be able to elicit such a universal supremacy: Hermès Kelly, Ferragamo Vara pump, Chanel 2.55. She may further wax on diverse fashion trends—spiel on Louis Vuitton and Thierry Mugler’s rousing S&M chic or roar about the lady-like glamour of Donna Karan or Bottega Veneta, but it is in the intrinsic qualities of hard work, precision and craftsmanship as manifested in their chic and elegant silhouettes that truly make it quintessential. The law of the few may command its threshold, as Isenberg admits on some faux pas reality, “I feel that many of the wrong people influence global style, because we are obsessed with celebrities, and therefore their style gets imitated.” Setting a similar social epidemic, she counts on Karl Lagerfeld, Miuccia Prada and other major designers and editors who have an impact on global style as “we follow their work.”

Forecasting a very big gap in the industry as other cerebral major designers like Karl Lagerfeld, Giorgio Armani and Ralph Lauren will be retiring, she finds comfort in upcoming artists such as Finsk, “a Finnish designer based in London who makes crazy heels. I buy at least five pairs of shoes from her a year.”

At the cultural and aesthetic crossroads of global economics, the graphic and educational appeal of the internet even becomes more intensified now that the United Nations has declared its access a basic human right. In the swirling orbit of information we fondly call Cyberspace, a relatively fashionable few have managed to venerate the preservation of values of art in the human race. In her chosen field, where life imitates art is even more vividly portrayed, Isenberg thumbnails on a passion that will always be in season. “Don’t start a blog unless you are going to write something you are very passionate about.” To lease on the famous words of art iconoclast Louis I. Kahn, fashion, just like “Architecture, must begin with the immeasurable, go through measurable and in the end must be immeasurable.” A lot of pomp and pageantry must get fashion to walk and talk across many channels, but to be able to leave your bookmark, Isenberg ends with this calculated heated note, “ To make it in the fashion industry, you have to be willing to work very hard. People think that the fashion industry is about clothes and parties, but that is not the case. The industry is also a lot more competitive now than it was 10 years ago, so you need to be a hard worker and you need to be better than the hundreds of other people trying to get your job.” / / / /

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Alexandra’s picks for Fall / The Statement Leather Piece: Add a great leather skirt, dress, or trousers to your wardrobe. / The Poncho Parka: Winter’s oversized outerwear. / Polka Dots: Cocktail dresses are more fun with dotted prints. / Tartan: Works on outerwear, tailoring, or evening wear.

In the world of blogging, few have emerged to truly challenge the limits of the sphere, to emerge as one with a vision. And surprisingly, behind the effervescent façade of Mike Lim, we find an individual who is as passionate as he is audacious

TONGUE CHIC In this day and age, it’s rare to find someone who would give it to you straight; someone who can speak plainly about things we can only whisper and ponder amongst ourselves.

In comes Michael Lim and his online counterpart, fashionpulis.com. Now, millions of readers hang on to the daily “clues” to his famous blind items, which have people raising their eyebrows, guessing, and coming back for more. Fashion Pulis is now more than just a catchy name, but has become a force to reckon with. Michael Lim himself is not just a man behind the strong words: he is a statement.

He moves and talks with nary any reservations, but with a defined nonchalance. Despite having his fair share of detractors, Mike shrugs it off and continues to steadily make a name for himself. Aside from being a professor at one of the country’s leading universities, he doubles as an entrepreneur and a long-time wedding and events host.

SPARK sits down for a tête-à-tête with this vivacious blogger. Despite the afternoon’s overcast skies, he livens the atmosphere with his nonplussed manner and biting wit, and talks about his writing skills (or self-professed lack, thereof), taste for traveling, and diverse plethora of opinions.

/ / / / Words Jona Conopio Images Mark Cabalang and Byron Henry Santiago Styling Irish Degala Grooming Raymond Ko of Benefits Style Salon for L’Oréal Professionnel

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Congratulations on having more than 3 million page views in only 5 months. What makes people come back to your blog?

I think that it is human nature to be gossipy and nosy. The edge of my blog is that it is a breath of fresh air to read gossip in English, because many of my readers are not comfortable reading the Tagalog versions.

How did you start blogging? When was it launched?

My blog was launched on February 17, 2011. Before starting the blog, there was a fashion scandal issue that I copied and pasted on my Facebook page. When a lot of people started reading it, I became uncomfortable—so I started a blog. It was also out of boredom.

How do you deal with critics and criticisms?

If you really know me, you’ll see that I’m the type of person who doesn’t care about what other people say. Of course, there are many critics. One friend told me that if you are not famous, you don’t have haters, and I must say I have my own share of haters. At the end of the day, it makes you wonder, if you hate me, why visit my blog?

Your blog has a lot of blind items. How do people respond to this?

I have been very blessed that on the first month of my blogging, I received, not a lawsuit, but a simple request from a lawyer to take down a particular article. I must admit it was quite obvious that all the comments of the readers pointed directly to these particular personalities. So it was really the readers’ comments that were the issue. That’s why I started a policy or guideline that one should be more cautious when giving comments. I was lucky that it happened in the early stages of the blog, so I learned from it.

Do you think your blog will evolve beyond blind items?

My blog is not all about blind items, that’s not the case. If my readers have complaints about certain products or services, I post them as well. The funny thing is, those people who are so into the blind items would comment and say, ‘How come you don’t have a blind item for today?’ So I just balance it a bit. There are others who ask me why my name is ‘Fashion Pulis’ when I blog about everything? But there is a tagline that also says “everything under the sun.” Fashion Pulis is just a name—like Michael— and it doesn’t mean that if you’re Michael, then you’ll have to be holy or whatever. It’s just a name, snap out of it. I was thinking, when people call you, ‘Hey Fashion Pulis,’ it’s nicer than if you will be called, “Chismosa Pulis” or “Blind Item.” (Laughs) At least there’s a certain sophistication and authority to it. I love fashion, but it doesn’t mean that I have to blog about fashion right?

I always tell my readers that the fashion industry blind items are rather scarce, because not many people know these characters. And [if] it’s not a famous make-up artist, stylist or designer, they wouldn’t know who he or she is.

So eventually, it evolved into celebrities, and I assure my

readers that if I get a famous fashion industry celebrity, I prioritize that. One of the advantages is that I talk about things that they don’t talk about on TV. What’s also great about Fashion Pulis is that I have no affiliation to any publisher or TV station. Thus, I’m allowed to talk about anyone and anything under the sun.

Who are your famous readers?

I must say that all the people I write about read my blog.

Because they comment immediately on Twitter, which for me, shows that they’re guilty. My advice to them: don’t comment on Twitter. For crying out loud, it’s a blind item!

Not that I’m bragging, I think my message always get across to people who are the ‘items.’ That’s why they speak up immediately.

Top fashion must-haves?

Well, I always have to walk around with a bag. I feel incomplete without one. A lot of people think my bag is a Birkin, it’s not. It’s a Haut à Courroie, it’s the mother of the Birkin. I also like neutrals: black—no whites—greys, browns. A little bit of red to spice up an outfit, but basically very classic. That’s it. In short, very “matronly.” (Laughs) Favorite local or international designers? Who do you look up to in terms of style, or your fashion icon?

I like Hermès, Bottega Veneta, Yves Saint Laurent. I love Celine— the imported one. From time to time, I wear Prada.

Locally, for my suits, I like Rex Centeno a lot. Jerome made my suit, so I have to say Jerome Lorico. Let’s not forget Paul Cabral. [Also] Barge Ramos, Larry Espinosa, and Veejay Floresca. These are the designers that I trust. I have no fashion icon. I want classic looks all the time, because I believe it is timeless.

Best fashion advice you can give your readers.

Stick to the classics, just be safe. I’m actually boring.

People actually say I have such a vibrant personality, but when it comes to my fashion choices [it’s the] very opposite.

Except your collection of brightly-colored Hermès ties.

I’ll tell you why they’re colored. I do wedding events and I mostly wear a black suit and a white shirt, so a brightly colored tie will make a difference. Especially in Chinese parties, you can’t be too dull, so you really need a tie to

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brighten up your outfit. Besides, that’s really my personal style: all black with an accent. I’m a sucker for that, black with a little detail.

What are your hobbies?

I love to travel. I can say that I have traveled more than a normal person has traveled for my age.

Top destinations?

Spain is at the top of the list. People think that the best places in Europe are France and Italy. I beg to disagree—I think it’s Spain. Second is Turkey. Many people don’t know how beautiful Turkey is. [In Asia], Hong Kong and Japan. In the States, just New York. For me, my top five favorites— and I tell this to people, that before they die, they have to see these places: Spain, Turkey, Russia, and Malta. I recently went to Malta, and it just entered my top five list.

For something more exotic, Iceland! And Morocco. I think that’s six.

Name one thing most people don’t know about you.

That I’m generous—in the blog, I love giving away stuff, because I’m like that in person. A friend will tell me, ‘Oh, that’s pretty.’ And then I’ll go, ‘It’s yours.’ One thing I am very proud of: I am not like some bloggers that you can bribe.

If they tell [me], ‘I’ll give you this, blog about me.’ I say no and I tell them that I want something you can give to my readers. First, I have pride. Second, I also have a reputation to protect because I am a teacher, and that’s very important.

In the Chinese community, it is important that you take care of your name.

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What are your top three stories?

It’s hard to answer your question; maybe I can tell you a few stories. When I wrote about the Andi Eigenmann story? I wasn’t so sure about it. When I’m unsure, I do write and say, ‘I’m not sure, please research about this, why don’t you go ahead and research.’ That’s why there were many different guesses that came out. What I’m very proud of was that I was ahead of everyone else. Two weeks after I wrote about it, it came out and almost all the tabloids copied it. Even the major TV talk shows cited my blog. I think that was a breakthrough. And because of that, I think my credibility ratio went up. Now, everything I say, they take it “as is” already.

Also, I actually was the first one who talked about the “incident” with certain athletes. Actually I didn’t call it “rape”—they’re putting words into my mouth—I called it an incident. I said there were two possible versions of the stories. Maybe it’s this, maybe it’s that—you be the judge.

But I was the first one that said that there’s a particular incident that happened. Third one is when I spotted Pia Guanio making out with her boyfriend, when I was eating outside Sala, and I just took pictures. I also do paparazzi

shots, I think it’s fun. They even say I’m like TMZ or Perez Hilton. (Laughs) How long have you been teaching? How has blogging affected your students?

For more than 10 years. I teach Marketing and Advertising.

To encourage my students to read my blog, I used to put bonus items in my quizzes with the answers found there.

But now, I already have a lot of readers, so it doesn’t matter anymore. My students? They’re okay. They say, ‘You might lose your teaching job.’ At the end of the day, I don’t care.

Why will I lose my job? Because I write blind items? La Salle is a very open-minded university. La Sallians are taught to think for themselves. In Religion class, they are taught there is a God, but in Philosophy, that there is no God. That’s the problem with the Philippines, sometimes even college students are treated like they are still in high school. In America, you do your own thinking; they give you all the information and you make a decision. I always tell my students that they have to do their own processing.

Tell us more about your events hosting.

I’m a walking business. People don’t know that I have several degrees: I have undergraduate courses in Communication, Marketing, and pursued post graduate studies in Psychology at La Salle. For the record, I didn’t finish it; they might say I’m bluffing. I didn’t write my thesis. Also, I have always been insecure about my writing. I am more of a public speaker. I’ve actually been hosting for 20 years already and I started when I was 14 or 15. I was a national champion in public speaking—that’s why De La Salle hired me as their Speech Coordinator. I feel I am better at talking. There are some readers who say my writing style is boring, and not as creative. I am not the type who is afraid to expose their weaknesses, and writing is one of them. That’s why it’s very ironic that I am a blogger.

What are your advocacies?

I believe that men and women should be given equal opportunities. Discrimination in the workplace is very, very strong. You should be judged based on your performance, and not on your gender or sexual orientation. I’m also something of an environmentalist. If I had a lot of money, I‘d want to establish a scholarship foundation to send deserving students to the top universities. I want to have a few scholars who are really brilliant, whom I can send to these schools. Since I’m an advocate of education, I make sure that I teach a few classes from time to time. Sometimes I think Filipinos should give more credit to teachers. Like what Oprah said, they are the heroes and I do believe that.

How about your politics? Do you like the current president and what’s he’s doing?

I believe, regardless who our leader is, the Filipinos need

discipline. When we discipline ourselves, I think our country will become better. Discipline in all aspects, you know being hard-working, thrifty—all of those. And since I’ve seen the world, there’s nowhere else I’ll live except Manila. That’s why I hate people who brag about their lifestyle abroad. I think they should just live abroad and not live here. Some Filipinos, they live in the States for a while, and they come back here acting all high and mighty. I hate that. I am very nationalistic. I don’t seem the type, right? But I am. I love the Philippines, for some reason.

Can you tell us more about your Chinese roots?

My parents are Chinese, my grandparents are also Chinese [from] Fujian province. You know, many people don’t know the difference between Fujian and Mandarin. The whole of China is supposed to know Mandarin, because it’s the language of the elite. When you go to school, we expect you to know Mandarin. But when in Manila, most of the people here are from the Fujian province. That’s why here in the Philippines, you are supposed to speak Fujiaenese or Hokkien. My analogy is that you should know Tagalog.

But if you went to a good school, you should know English.

Fujian is like Tagalog; Mandarin is like English. Have I said anything offensive yet? (Laughs) / / / /

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Mark Twain once said that age is an issue of mind over matter, such that if you don’t mind, it does not matter. While there is irreverent wisdom in his words, today’s society will likely be aghast in Mr. Twain’s defiance. After all, with the beauty industry fueling billions of dollars in search for the ultimate source of eternal youth, such numbers clearly prove that yes, people do mind and yes, beauty and age matter / / / / Words Dra. Windie Hayano

beyond just In the past, people generally relied on cosmetics for answers to their anti-aging needs. Now, there has been a great overlap between cosmetics and medicine that has changed the world as we know it. Dermatology is probably one of the most dynamic practices to be in presently. That said, it is also the most industry-driven since the advances and technology devoted for the practice of cosmetic dermatology specifically has launched a deluge of products and machines ranging from topical cosmeceuticals, injectables, to high powered lasers designed to banish wrinkles forever. There’s always a new dermatology line or “it” laser that is being launched, so much so that it is no different from Fashion Week.

Emerging technology now focuses on an overlap between alternative medicine and conventional medicine. Presently, more and more research is going into Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy, not just for anti-aging, but also to address weight loss. This type of practice used to be limited to Obstetrics, Gerontology and Endocrinology, but now anti-aging specialists are using this technique in their practice. It basically involves the restoring of hormones that are gradually lost as we age. The loss and imbalance of hormones produce biological effects that manifest as disease. These diseases could easily lead to obesity, premature aging, diabetes, heart disease and so on. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy needs screening and monitoring because safety is always a big issue. These substances are powerful enough to elicit changes very quickly in the body and may not be for everyone.

Stem Cell Therapy is another controversial but interesting emerging technology. Stem cells are biological cells found in all multi-cellular organisms, that can divide through mitosis and differentiate into diverse specialized cell types and can self-renew to produce more stem cells. Stem cells can now be artificially grown and transformed into specialized cell types with characteristics consistent with cells of various tissues such as muscles or nerves through cell culture. Highly plastic adult stem cells are routinely used in medical therapies, like treatment of leukemia for

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example. There has been a lot of resistance in embracing this type of therapy largely due to ethical issues, especially when the cells are derived from embryonic tissue. However, procedures like the Stem Cell Face Lift that is performed by Dr. Cristina Puyat involves autologous stem cells derived from fat. The Stem Cell Face Lift procedure simplistically is a two step process. Liposuction is performed to get the fat graft and the fat stem cells. After the stem cells are processed in her lab, they are added to the fat graft and the mixture is then injected to the areas of the face where rejuvenation is needed. The stem cells boost the viability of the fat graft by 80 to 90% (compared to the typical 40% of an ordinary fat graft) and the same time provides a better and more effective long-term lift to the face. And since the fat comes from the patient, there is no rejection or allergic reaction to speak of compared to Hyaluronic acid or other filling agents. This results in a great filling effect and a regenerative process to boot.

Anti-aging specialists like Dr. Puyat see this type of therapy as the wave of the future. “The idea is ironically going back to basics and focusing on the patient as a whole. Conventional medicine has broken down medical practice into subspecialties but no one is talking about the patient’s whole well-being. This new specialty of antiaging aims to bridge those gaps by focusing on not just the technology but taking into consideration healthy living in general. This means focusing on prevention of disease through nutrition, replacement with bio-identical hormones and regenerative techniques, says Dr. Puyat. At present, Dr. Puyat, a board certified dermatologist and a MOH’s surgery alumni of Baylor University, is using Mesenchymal stem cells derived from fat to treat degenerative diseases aside from performing cosmetic procedures. An advocate of continuing education, she has invested heavily on an ongoing program with Dresden International University.

Dr. Sandy Tan of Skin Inc. Dermatology believes that machine based technology will continue to play a major role in anti-aging. Light-based technology like lasers and IPL are continuously being improved on and applications

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for each type of technology are expanding. At present, there’s a laser that is already approved for fungal infections.

“We usually combine treatments with light therapy. We have found them to be more effective that way.” says Dr. Tan. “Also the safety profile and ease of use is something laser companies are focusing now. It has made the practice easier with less side effects.” Dr. Tan states that studies are coming out regarding some novel uses for certain lasers. “Take for example the use of fractional lasers for male pattern baldness and stretch marks. There are now preliminary studies saying that this laser is effective for these conditions,” according to Dr. Tan. Presently, Physiologic Regulating Medicine from Guna, Italy is something the doctors from Skin Inc. are using.

The GUNA Method includes the most recent knowledge about homeopathy, homo-toxicology, Psycho-NeuroEndocrine-Immunology (P.N.E.I.) and nutrition. This method combines elements of allopathy and homeopathy.

Physiological Regulating Medicine adds to classical homeopathy, a new therapeutic concept of restoring physiology through communicating molecules such as hormones, neuropeptides, interleukins, and growth factors prepared in homeopathic dilutions, which are at the same physiological concentration as the biological milieu.

“This has added a new dimension to typical mesotherapy because the injection technique needs basic knowledge of acupuncture sites to potentiate treatment,” according to Dr. Max Navarro. According to GUNA expert and Thai dermatologist of Medisci Bio Integrative Anti-Aging Center, Atchima Suwanchinda, and the effects of this method is similar to PRP or Platelet Rich Plasma without having to draw blood.

American writer EB White once said that, “In a man’s middle years there is scarcely a part of the body he would hesitate to turn over to the proper authorities.” This sentiment is obviously shared by millions of people on the quest for

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eternal youth and health. There is now a resurgence of a paradigm shift in terms of rejuvenation. Expert doctors in the recently conducted meeting of the International Society of Dermatologic Surgery in Bali are going towards the direction of a holistic approach in treating their patients.

Some even suggest that aging itself is a disease process that can be addressed. For years, people have searched and relied on quick fixes from wrinkles to weight loss, but this new breed of doctors are now saying that this is the wrong way to go. “Real anti-aging should focus on prevention of disease. It should be about looking at the underlying cause of the problem. So the approach should involve looking at all the organs in the body,” Dr. Puyat stresses.

The promise of eternal youth has been subject to lore, legend, and science fiction. The idea of living eternally in perfect health has been romanticized and eagerly sought but like the stuff of legend, the road to achieve this goal is rife with cost financial, psychological, and emotional. This begs the question of whether all that hype and heartache is worth it. Dr. Navarro pauses and smiles, “Without sounding like a Nescafé commercial, I ask you this, what do you wake up for each morning? I certainly wake up thinking about my family and everything I do is for them. If I can keep myself and my loved ones happy and healthy for as long as I can, isn’t that worth it?” / / / /

Dr. Maria Cristina Puyat 1702 Medical Plaza Ortigas San Miguel Avenue, Pasig Call for an appointment at (2) 910 1097 Dr. Sandy Tan and Dr. Max Navarro Skin Inc. Dermatology and Laser Center Suite 303 Tritan Plaza Building Paseo De Magallanes, Magallanes Village Makati (2) 853 3024 Dr. Atchima Suwanchinda Medisci Biointegrative Anti-Aging Center 58/59 Soi Chinnakate, Ngamwongwan Rd., Thung Song Hong, Laksi, Bangkok 10210 Tel: +66 2 954 9440, +66 8 9900 6100 Fax: +66 2 954 9571 Email: medisci.center@gmail.com Website: www.medisci.net

NICOLE feat.

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artist

/ / / / Words Clarissa Chikiamco Images Miguel Yatco Art Direction Mito Fabie

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For the past few years, driven by market successes and wonders, the Philippine art scene has been transforming. Gone seem to be the days when galleries only showed the established and reluctantly released their tight-fisted grips to give a new artist a chance for an exhibition

Rocketing auction results and the glamourization attached to young contemporary artists have led to frenzied searches for the next hot talent. Artists are snapped up even before they leave school as speculation mounts, as desires to secure them and their work are burgeoning.

As a young independent curator with projects that are not profit-oriented—myself an outsider to the megabucks being showered in the market—I treat the recent developments with some caution, skepticism, even trepidation. The excessive attention and courting to young artists, without experiencing strain or striving in the scene, may lead to a generation with unrealistic expectations and demands, entangled too much in commercial agendas rather than their own artistic explorations. Yet, conversations with one very young artist have offered some unexpected reassurances and insights, allaying fears that the young are prideful and presumptuous.

Nicole Coson is the one such artist unfazed by the spectacle. At the impressionable and bare age of 18 and already with gallery representation, she talks about her paintings in the previous year with a twinge of painfulness.

She says, “As an artist, I think you’re not meant to like what you’ve done before.” It is this self-criticism in which I deem it appropriate to see, at her age, her true potential, rather than

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the actual works themselves. These works have a sense of primitiveness, perhaps fitting given their chosen subjects on the peculiarly fascinating. In these works rendered for group exhibitions, Coson focused on such persons as albinos in Africa and the Tree Man, whose condition has been featured in Discovery Channel—nature’s accidents which find themselves on the outside of desirable social constructs.

Coson, certainly still grappling with her artistic identity, calls them naïve in the present moment, that looking back, “it feels like I’ve passed them.” This acknowledgment to her rawness, her yearnings to progress and her openness to change mean gratefully that her tangents of direction may still lead anywhere, appropriate given her youth. She recently received admittance to the BA in Fine Art in U.K.’s Central Saint Martins College and while she says she plans to pursue painting, she also says she may not stick to 2D work. She is interested as well in creating experience and this appeal to environment may be credited to her other interests including music—an important factor given that she finds herself being artistically influenced by the company she keeps, which includes musician friends.

Her years at the British School Manila fostered her artistic training, as did guidance from the established painter Juvenal Sanso, who is a family friend. Initially she had entered St. Martins with the intention of doing fashion, but it seems apparent that she remains unconvinced of this field: her energy dips talking about it and her tone carries

an obvious weight of reluctance. Her discussion of ideas, which she hopes to manifest in her art, is still tentatively surmising but it certainly possesses a charming liveliness and genuine intrigue. Coson knew from a young age that she was inclined to the arts and, while she also went through the requisite phase of dabbling and wanting to do different things, the arts is what has remained consistent for her. In those still freshly recent years at British School, she said she soon found out what made her happiest—being in the art room, listening to music and painting.

Her possible trajectory may include the examination of the representation of images. In particular, she is interested in the constructions associated with them, particularly those which deviate from norms, holding an absorbing force of their own. The scrutiny of the “unpretty” and the psychology surrounding it is not new, she acknowledges, but for now it bears her attention. Correspondingly, she is also curious on exploring the idea of stimulus and reaction with its immediate generative causal power. The furtherance or the rejection of these ideas will yield in the coming formative years, to be shaped by her education, exposure and experience. This is what she takes pleasure in though, the arts—the great extent of freedom and the illimitable pathways available in defining one’s artistic self.

She remains open to collaboration and experimentation in other endeavors, designing a shirt for charity and even doing simple tattooing. She continues to enjoy painting, but likes to approach it always thinking it is her first one—

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not so much a severance of the past but in a longing to challenge herself anew. In this respect, she nimbly holds an attachment to her previous works but perceives that this should not fetter her in looking forward.

Doing just that and looking at the upcoming for her, she recognizes that studying in London provides a fantastic environment to benefit and learn, both personally as well as artistically. Having completed her foundation studies there in the past year, she enjoys the city and its widespread offerings as a locus for the contemporary. While it is possible that she may decide to continue her career abroad, she notes that she likes being around people who are motivated, and that the Philippines has this aplenty.

It reflects though likewise. Again, her own motivation and self-evaluation is where her real promise for the future lies. Talent in the art world can only go so far—skill after all is also in the possession of street side and mall kiosk artists. The ability to sharply conceptualize ideas and to discern and execute its most effective methods of delivery are paramount, together with a good hunger for challenge and the ability to adapt and evolve over time. A savviness in articulation, representation in a proper gallery, recognition in the media’s publicity machine are admittedly factors in the art “game” but all these alone will fall short of critical acceptance. While I perhaps may scoff at some antics of the market-besieged art scene, I find myself affectionately waiting to see Coson’s progression in the years to come.

More important than being the next auction star, she could quite possibly turn to be something more. / / / /

Previous Page: Gray long jersey skirt by Rick Owens; shoes by Balenciaga This Page: Pistachio halter top by Rick Owens Make Up Al de Leon for MAC Cosmetics

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“As an artist, I think you’re not meant to like what you’ve done before.”

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Built with Adaptive Bass Linearisation (ABL), BeoSound 8 has the capacity of an amplifier and driver units for a bass extension. With this, speakers boost more bass than the other loudspeakers would otherwise be able to produce. Take the Bang & Olufsen experience anywhere you go, with its superb ease of use and fullness of sound on every iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch as you dock your player in BeoSound 8. BeoPlayer applications are available via iTunes. Put superior music browsing, thousands of internet radio stations, and an advanced alarm clock right in your pocket. The free version gives you 20 great stations to choose from, with the option to upgrade to more than 13,000 internet radio stations from around the world. Besides advanced scheduling options, the alarm clock gives you a choice between the gentle chime and wake to the sound of music wherever you are. / / / / Words Irish Degala Image Courtesy of Living Innovations Corporation

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Joining the roster of consumer tablets, BlackBerry introduces the Playbook, with a promise of delivering industry leading performance, ultra-portable design, and advanced features unlike any other

Research in Motion (RIM), a leader in wireless innovation, announced their latest product: the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet. According to RIM’s Gregory Wade, the PlayBook is an incredibly powerful and feature-rich tablet, ideal for business and personal use—allowing you to work smarter, play harder.

Built to impress—inside and out—it includes technology from QNX software systems, letting users experience true multi-tasking such as browsing the web while you are on video chat, or sending a BBM while watching a movie. With its 1-GHz dual core processor, you get uncompromised quality, in an ultra-portable design that weighs less than a pound.

Web browsing is uncompromised, with support for Adobe Flash 10.2 and HTML5, allowing one to get the perks of the Internet, anytime, anywhere. It comes in three Wi-Fi models that offer 16 GB, 32 GB, and up to 64 GB internal storage.

With its 7-inch, multi-touch display and 3D graphics acceleration, the PlayBook supports high-resolution video playback, and has dual 1080p HD cameras for video capture and conferencing, MP3, AAC, and WMA audio playback, with stereo speakers and microphones.

If it’s critical reliability you are after, and the perfect pair up with your BlackBerry smartphone, get your hands on this stunning powerhouse.

With these B&O Form 2 headphones, you can crank up the volume without compromising sound quality or annoying the neighbors. Dynamic drive units offer true, well-defined sound, allowing you to shut out the world and submerge yourself in pure, listening pleasure. The lightweight Form 2 headphones are easily adjusted for maximum comfort.

Bang & Olufsen is owned and operated by Living Innovations Corporation

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Light blue button down long sleeves polo shirt and Pink silk woven tie both by Louis Vuitton

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the ‘double life’ of GP Reyes is a particularly interesting one that seesaws from real estate aficionado until sundown, to clubbing prince thereafter

Night Visi nnaire GP Reyes steps out of his two-seater Porsche a bit disheveled and saunters into Draft, a Belgian pub—the latest of his group’s ventures into the nocturnal scene.

From the small loft of the pub, I ask, “Are you ready?” He answers with a straight, sleepy face. “No.” He checks on the kitchen and goes out for a smoke, then enters again with a bit more energy. He explains that he came straight from another meeting, and proceeds to order frites and croquettes for the crew. He is dressed camera-ready in a well-fitted, long-sleeved shirt tucked into Diesel jeans, Hermès belt on-waist. /// Earlier in your career, you were in-charge of marketing and events for the clothing company, Sari-Sari. Now, you are one of the most successful men in the nightlife industry. Did you ever see all this success happening in just a few years?

It hasn’t really been a few years. (Laughs) It’s a product of hard work and luck. A lot of it was being patient. I don’t consider myself successful, I have a long way to go. I’ve always been driven and felt that I could achieve anything I wanted to, as cliché as that sounds. Like they say, if you find something you really love to do, you don’t work a day in your life. I just really love people, I love the nightlife, going out, being creative. So that’s the reason why I think I have achieved a certain measure of success, but I’ve barely scratched the surface of what I can be.

You’re part of the team behind the famous clubs and restos like Opus, Republiq, Izakaya, Fever Lounge, and this location, Draft Gastropub. What made you decide to venture into these businesses?

I started in marketing and events for Sari-Sari, after which, I started a PR company. PR entails loving people, seeing what makes them tick, what makes people like to go to certain places. I think it was an obvious progression.

I enjoyed going out, I love beautiful women—I love the whole scene. Because of that, I started club promoting and doing events in different nightlife places, and I realized, why rent a place when you can actually own it? That’s what started my partnership with different people in the industry: Stephen Ku, Erik Cua, Louie Ysmael—people whom I idolize and are personal friends of mine. Because of that, we were able to create venues that are special in their way, venues that have a certain mystique—like Embassy or Members Only— places that create joy for even that one single night in your life. Embassy was there for seven years, and being one of the head promoters during its time and as one of the people who were there in the beginning, we have memories there, good and bad. When we did the closing party, people were actually crying because we grew up there. There are so many things happening in a club atmosphere—from fights, to friendships, to falling in love. You can fall in love in schools, malls, but where do you really meet your crush? When you buy a new dress, where do you wear it? You don’t wear it in front of a mirror at home, you wear it when you go out. You don’t wear your clothes to impress your girlfriends, you wear it because you want to impress your crush. A lot of this ties to the nightlife industry, it’s more sentimental than a lot of people credit it for. People see it as going out, drinking, drugs, blah, blah, blah...but it is also where you meet new friends, you toast to a raise, or you celebrate someone’s birthday—another year of living.

/ / / / Images Martin Favis Words Kariz Tanya Favis Interview Jona Conopio Styling Jona Conopio and Reena Collantes Grooming Al de Leon of MAC Cosmetics Hair Jayson delos Reyes of Benefits Style Salon

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time, I run an advertising agency, and in the nighttime, I run the clubs. Basically I do everything from product developments, to the brochures, the collaterals, the websites, the videos, and the print ads. For Century, we’re bringing [in] Paris Hilton, and we do different projects like Acqua, which is across Rockwell; and Azure, which is a man-made beach.

We’re creating the tallest building in the Philippines called the Gramercy. And we have another place called Knightsbridge, which is a British-inspired condo. Unlike before, I used to do fashion shows and events parties, it was bittersweet because I bring in so much energy and juice into it.

At the end of the night, you see people breaking down the stage, and the models are leaving. It’s very fleeting. Now, I’m creating buildings that will stand the test of time. So even after I’m dead, this building will still be standing. At night, it’s the opposite, but they complement each other. If I didn’t have a day job, I’ll be partying all night. When I go to work during the day, and I didn’t have a nightlife, I’d go crazy in the office. A lot of people say it’s crazy, schedule-wise, but it really works for me.

That’s a different perspective.

Exactly, and people don’t really think that way. It’s about interpersonal relationships, [which] is what I love. I’m fascinated by people. You can learn from books, traveling, but you learn the most from people’s experiences—who they are, how they got to where they are. Being in a more mature station in my life, I can say, I’m already at a point where I can give advice to people. I have a 23-year old guy friend who is putting up a restaurant, and it is so humbling for him to come to me for advice. I’m already pushing 40, and I can’t do this all my life, so there’s a next generation. I want them to love it the way I love it. It’s not about charging 180 pesos for a 20 peso beer, and making money. It’s also about the memory of that beer and where that beer gets you throughout the course of the night.

You also founded GPR Advertising, Events, & Public Relations, and work closely with Century Properties. Can you tell us more about your role as Creative Director?

I’m a man of two hats. Maybe because I was born in a cusp.

I am a Sagittarius-Scorpio—Louie Y. [and I] actually have the exact same birthday, and we are very, very good friends, and he is the king of the nightlife. I’m digressing. In the day-

What is your most significant accomplishment to date?

Biggest milestones in your career?

One of the biggest accomplishments that I had that I would like to share maybe with the youth today is really going out on your own. I used to work for an advertising agency first, then I worked for Sari-Sari. In order to achieve my dreams or financial objectives, I needed to do my own thing. When I put up with my own company, that was where I was able to earn and invest in my own clubs. It’s scary, but put up your own business. For me, it can work concurrently. I have an artist in my agency who does graphic design, but she loves fashion. I say, at night, your brain does not stop working, so if you can design at night, you can just have it made or do it in bazaars. Then at the end of the day, even if you’re still working for someone, you’re doing your own business.

Aside from that I really have yet to still consider any other milestone because I think the rest are just steps to something greater. And I think if you feel satisfied—there’s always greatness in contentment. But if you’re always hungry, you’ll never just settle. I’ll never consider accomplishments as accomplishments yet, until my book is done. /// He looks the same, boyish, charming, and, maybe he won’t appreciate the word—cute—exactly the way I remember him from 6 years ago. During those times, Embassy was the talk of the town, and Reyes is part of that team that set the ‘bar’ for this country’s club scene for good. We somehow go way back, when he was still an events connoisseur, and we were starting out in the publishing industry. /// You lead a busy life juggling your businesses. Describe a typical day for you.

At least I’m not juggling women anymore. (Laughs) I wake up at 12, except for today, I woke up at 11. (Laughs) I’m usually in my Century office around 2 to 8 P.M., after which I biSunglasses by Ray-ban, Blue shirt by Tween (P3,350), Charcoal jacket and Neo Kendall En Cuir Taiga Ardoise bag both by Louis Vuitton

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cycle the clubs. On weekends, I’m usually at the bigger ones like Opus or Republiq. I sleep everyday at around 3 A.M. To whom or what do you owe your present success? What inspires or motivates you?

If I had like five Ferrari’s in the garage, or a house in Beverly Hills, then I can say present success. I think the limited success that I have been given, is due to a combination of different things. I think, it’s to have at least one parent, because my mom is awesome. I attribute a lot of who I am to her and my family. My brothers and sisters are all equally talented—I’m the oldest of 6. One is a photographer in Singapore, one works for L’Oreal. And we’re all very, very outspoken. Another thing is education. I feel like a lot of who I am was forged by my schooling, my formative years in I.S. (International School). A bit of Western education, that’s how I got to be as kapal as I am. The reason I feel that I can do anything is I’ve never been told that I can’t. You know when they say, you can’t build a gigantic club in The Fort, suddenly there’s a club here. And when we went to Vegas, me, Eric, and Stephen were like, “Are we gonna build a club with casino, you know, in Pasay?” I’m like, “How could we do that?” So we go to Vegas and studied how they did it.

And before you knew it, Republiq and Opus were born, and they are the hottest clubs.

How do you react to and rise from failures?

I’ve been very fortunate of not failing that much. The Big Guy up there is watching out for me. I guess I can look at love as failure. Sometimes I’ve gone to a series of many relationships; some of them failed due to my fault, some of them failed not due to my fault. Life goes on. The world doesn’t stop spinning because you’re crying or failing. The moment you understand that the world doesn’t stop for you, then you’ve got to keep walking.

What sparked your interest in music? Is being a DJ something you’ve always wanted to do?

Yes, because I can’t play any instrument. I can only play my own instrument—no, no, just kidding. (Laughs) I tried piano before. That’s why I had to play other people’s music. Well, I’m a control freak. In advertising, your main motivation is really what makes people work. When you’re doing a Gucci ad, you have to make people want Gucci. Why do people part with their hard-earned money to buy a Louis Vuitton or buy a Porsche? So that’s where I get my kicks. Again, it’s controlling someone’s decisions. How do I make this person wanna go to this club? How do you make it so attractive?

DJ-ing is an offshoot of that. DJ-ing is control. With a drop of a track, I can make you move. When I put this song on, I can make you dance involuntarily. It’s also because I love a lot of House music. A lot of people are playing mash-ups now, because it is the A.D.D. generation. But for people who like House, it’s really taking them on a musical journey— sometimes without lyrics, sometimes with just sounds. Music is a universal language, whether it is English, or it’s just the beats. So that’s why I love DJ-ing. And I started when I was in high school.

What type of music are you most drawn to?

House, at night. In my car, I listen to Frank Sinatra.

What do you enjoy doing during your down time?

Cars and women. (Laughs) I play golf, I love cars. I can’t collect women anymore, so I just collect cars. You can go in and out in them and they can’t get pregnant. (Laughs) You can trade your car for a newer model, and they won’t complain. (Laughs) /// After some grooming, he asks, “What are we gonna do today?” I explain, “You’re gonna lie down on that bar, and we’re

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“I'm 6-foot tall in person. And I have a 12-inch stick.”

Glasses by Ray-ban, Grey long-sleeved polo by H&M, Belt by Hermès, Watch by U-boat, Jeans by Diesel, Brown shoes by Zara, all Model’s own

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gonna shoot you there.” During which, he shakes his head with a slight grin and states, “I’m gonna look like such an asshole, I’ll get my ass kicked after this.” I didn’t know he was funny and self-deprecating. Moments later he is pumped up, and urges us to try the sticky date and toffee pudding (quipping that it is apt because he is a sticky date), which he guarantees would be delicious. It hit the spot. /// Describe your sense of style. Any preferred clothing and shoe brands?

Diesel. I have like 60 pairs. For everyday, basically this is it, jeans and a long-sleeved shirt. I just put on a jacket at night.

And also, Paul Smith. I also really believe in local clothing. I am very, very impressed with Folded and Hung. The owners are personal friends of mine, they’re very, very good. The cut and the fabric they use, and it’s so cheap. As future Tourism Secretary, (Laughs) you know, we talk so much about our beaches and our bitches, because of the sex trade. That’s what people promote here in the Philippines—the sex and tourism. One of the things that is largely under-promoted is shopping. Bring any tourist to SM Department Store, and they’ll find so much to buy, they’re so updated in terms of fashion. If you go to the Philippines, and you look at the girl making angkas on the jeepney, she’s dressed well. In the States you won’t find that. I think we have a good fashion industry, we have great retailers, we should promote it.

What are people most surprised to learn about you?

I’m 6-foot tall in person. (Laughs) And I have a 12-inch stick.

(Laughs) You know, I rub off people the wrong way. A lot of people have always found me mayabang. There’s two reasons for that. One, I’m very, very outspoken, and Filipinos are not used to that. I’m Filipino, but because of I.S., and since I always travel, I don’t mince words. If I feel a certain way, I’ll tell you. If I don’t like you, you’ll know. I’m mayabang because I earned it. Nothing came from my parents. The only thing I probably inherited from them is my education.

I hate my dad, and I haven’t talked to him in 10 years. I disowned myself, so everything I have is mine. Another reason maybe is because I don’t say “hi” from afar? A year ago, when I took my driver’s license, I found out that I was blind.

That’s why now I have glasses, and now I can say hi to people. Because in the club, when someone is waving, I’m like, who the fuck is that? But now that I have glasses, I’m not mayabang anymore.

So those have a grade?

200 and 160. I can’t see far.

/// We finish a few more shots indoors, and the next photo would involve him lounging again, this time, on the hood of his matte, custom-painted ride. Some on-lookers would slow down and stop. GP jokes, “Yeah, you better believe I’m the model. This is the shoot for models 5’5” and under.” Everyone chuckles. What’s not laughable, however, is his present stature as a self-made businessman—one that affords him the fancy sports cars and a lifestyle that can send him jetting off to Hong Kong to watch the Chili Peppers concert on a Thursday with his family and lovely girlfriend who’s 13 years his junior—then fly back to meet with Paris Hilton in Manila on Saturday as part of his day job with Century Properties.

He was alternately glued typing on his Mac or talking on his mobile, tying-up loose ends for this Hilton collaboration. He apologizes about it as I say my thanks and goodbyes. Reyes gets up and warmly says, “Hey, let me know when you guys wanna come over to the clubs so you can come and drink for

free or whatever, ok?” So, who’s up for margaritas? /// What are you looking forward to most in the future?

I can’t do the club thing for too long. The next step is, maybe, settling down. My idol is Ian Schrager of Studio 54. He was a stage actor, and his dream with Studio 54 really was to create a memorable experience every night, and they get like a show. That’s why Studio 54 in the 70s was so hayop.

But he got old and tired of it, and then he evolved to something that he invented called the “boutique hotel.” As he got older, he knew he wanted to leave experiences that will last more than one night. He didn’t want a one-night stand. So he wanted to create memorable experiences that you can stay in for a longer time. He created the boutique hotel concept, which is all over the world now. That’s what I want.

We started with Tides, a small boutique hotel in Boracay. I wanna do something like that in Makati, except that I don’t have the money for it yet, that’s why I have to sell my left ball. (Laughs) Which is worth around 5 million. {Talks to the makeup artist} Wanna buy? (Laughs) You’re in a relationship with Radio DJ Andi Manzano.

As one of Manila’s most eligible bachelors, do you think you’re ready to ditch the dating scene for good?

I already have! Things are going really well. I had the misfortune of being with un-amazing people; I had the good fortune of being with amazing people, too. And by far, this one is amazing times infinity. I don’t have a crystal ball to really figure out the future, but she’s definitely worth it—I mean to ditch my other girlfriend, Jessica Alba. I’m actually gonna call Jessica Alba now. (Laughs) I don’t know, I’m very hopeful. She’s 13 years younger than me, so we’ll see what happens. (Laughs) But we really get along. She’s a girl version of me. Without the bad habits. (Laughs) / / / /

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Heralded as one of the most elusive, surprising, and expert couture designers of our time, Maison martin Margiela has RECENTLY been entrusted with its first hotel collaboration / / / / Words Marilyn Barton

A maison

margiela Belgian designer, Martin Margiela, was schooled at Antwerp’s Royal Academy of Fine Arts. In the ‘80s, a movement called ‘deconstruction’ (which was led by Japanese avant-garde designers such as Comme des Garçons’ Rei Kawakubo) was imbibed and continued by Margiela and a fashion collective referred to as the Antwerp Six. Margiela’s clothings’ bare hems, discernible stitching, exposed seams and shoulder pads are intrinsic to the brand.

He is known to redesign old wigs, canvases, silk scarves, and turn them into couture garments. The designer is also notorious for being reclusive, as he is steadfast about declining to have his photo taken, and remains backstage after his shows.

After more than 20 years of designing showrooms and shops to sell its collections throughout the world, Maison Martin Margiela is delving into new projects involving interior architecture and design. Collaborating with La Maison Champs-Elysées has been the Maison’s largest and most detailed interior design project.

The Essling Bar, in which the floor and ceiling match each other by using a divided-up effect in black and white trompe-l’oeil.

A wool carpet on the floor is printed with a classical-style French ceiling design, which is reflected by the ceiling. The ‘Group’ Margiela sofas, covered in white linen and cotton, face each other and are linked by low tables whose size is amplified by mirrors.

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Bernadette Chevalier, La Maison Champs-Elysées representative, explains why they chose the Maison for the redesign of the seventeen out of fifty-seven rooms of the seven-story hotel.“With the help of Maison Martin Margiela, we wanted to offer clients in search of different experiences, new concepts of living space by redefining the rules and offering a luxurious but relaxed atmosphere, where minimalism of forms is served by incredible attention to detail. Moreover, this hotel is located in the centre of a district which brings the most prestigious French couture houses together.” The hotel is located on 8 Rue Jean Goujon, 8th district in Paris.

La Maison Champs-Elysées consists of two buildings, one dating from the Second Empire under Napoleon III, the other built in more recent times. The rich history of the building in the Rue Jean Goujon gives the house its unique character. In 1864, the Duchess of Rivoli, Princess d’Essling, Grand Mistress of the Empress Eugénie’s Household, had her private mansion built at number 8. Jules Pellechet, the French architect, designed the house in Haussmann-style and completed it in 1866. In 1919, the Centraliens Society purchased the building as a meeting place for the activities of former pupils of the École Centrale in Paris. The site grew and became a first class hotel and restaurant, between the purchase and 1989.

In designing this project, Margiela “aimed for continuity in relation to its own artistic history by offering a place

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where contrasts harmonize that are further tinged with surrealism.”

Margiela, appointed after winning the competition to design the historical part of the building, has re-thought this space to create hotel suites, a restaurant, a smoking room, a bar and a reception area. Margiela adds, “The Maison is delighted to reinterpret another house as its first Paris hotel project—a dramatic world where reality and make-believe seem to blend. The decor is like a succession of stage sets where references are mixed so as to create an unusual atmosphere where past and present jostle harmoniously.” ////

The Antin Hall, which walls and ceilings are entirely covered in aluminum sheets, applied by hand.

The flooring is made up of big, silver, ceramic tiles. The lighting comes from a chandelier in the shape of a faceted diamond.

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THIS PAGE: The ‘Closet of Rarities’ suite, in which black is overwhelmingly present. The walls are painted coal black and the English-style oak parquet is stained black. An entire wall of the salon is devoted to a closet of rarities displaying various objects and works of art.

OPPOSITE PAGE: The landings and corridors are entirely black: black paint on thewalls and thick black carpeting on the floor. These dark spaces are lit up by projections of light which imitate sunlight filtering through non-existent doors or windows. The passageway from the reception hall to the restaurants is through a long corridor covered in wallpaper made from black and white photographs of the ‘golden salon’ on the second floor. The corridor features three ‘Montgolfier’ chandeliers with steel and crystal pendants, which have been deliberately mottled to age them.

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THIS PAGE: 1 and 2 The ‘Golden Salon’ suite, in which walls are entirely covered in wallpaper made from black and white photographs taken of the golden salon on the second floor. The net curtains are painted with these same patterns. Together, these fittings and furniture exude the trompe-l’oeil reproduction of the richness in decoration of the Second Empire style (Napoleon III).

3 The ‘loose covers in white’ suite, in which paintings, objects, furniture and fittings from the entrance are meticulously covered in white loose covers.

4 A huge library mural full of various books is put up over the bed head in the bedroom. The conveniences with all four walls covered with sections of different editions of magazines, continue this library theme.

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A set of bulbs in phosphorescent gypsum from the Urals frame a large mirror in the bedroom ceiling and illuminate the night. The flooring is English-style parquet in aged oak.

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Living Innovations’ Ferdie Ong may already be considered at the peak of his game, but he believes there’s a lot more to learn and do / / / / Words Verlaine Ramos-Marquez Images Diego Jose Styling Irish Degala Styling Assistant Jona Conopio Sittings Editors Job Ambrosio and Victor Aliwalas

swimming in About 10 years ago, 22-year old Ferdinand “Ferdie” Ong ventured into selling top-of-the-line European home furnishings. His first brand was Minotti, then an up-andcoming high-end furniture brand based in Milan. It was no small feat, for sure. In fact, he was warned by an Italian furniture business expert to be prepared to lose money for the first two years.

But Ferdie was unfazed. Fortunately, the warning that he received didn’t happen. The company did well, even on its first year. After Minotti, he chose to market Gaggenau, a German brand of kitchen appliances, and the rest followed.

The ball started rolling.

Early exposure The eldest of a brood of five, Ferdie learned about the value of money and perseverance at a young age. “My parents didn’t give us any spare allowance, so we had to work and save for the things that we wanted,” he shares. He took on summer jobs like rolling Cartolina paper in his aunt’s department store, or did clerical tasks like photocopying documents in his mom’s real estate company. While his classmates rode luxury cars to Xavier School in Greenhills, San Juan, he had to make do with riding the jeepney to school.

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furnishings, and that means offering luxury brands from Europe. “The European way of life was more interesting to me compared to what we were accustomed to. I feel that European design has a lot of feeling and function and the range is much more contemporary,” he explains.

A trip to Italy to visit the Milan Fair made him realize that Minotti was the brand for him. “In the beginning, it was difficult for a 22-year old to be recognized as a serious entrepreneur, but once they saw I had the passion, they knew I was a good partner,” shares Ferdie.

Right from the start, marketing high-end, very expensive furniture to Filipino consumers was Ferdie’s biggest challenge. It didn’t help that at that time, the country was at the heels of the Asian financial crisis and a real estate slump. And even without such crises, many believed that the local market was not big enough to sustain his chosen kind of business for a long time.

Ferdie saw how both his parents worked hard to build the family businesses—Moduclasse International, a pioneer in modular kitchens, and another company involved in property development. They brought him to places in and out of the country and introduced him to different kinds of furnishings. That exposed him to the world of business early on, and helped him acquire the skills and knowledge in doing business.

So it was no surprise that after taking up Manufacturing Engineering and Management at the De La Salle University, Ferdie decided to venture into business as well. But instead of choosing the less risky route by working for his parents’ established businesses, he wanted to start his own and take it a notch higher. Armed with market research and his parents’ blessing, he pursued his goal. He admitted that he initially wanted to study Architecture abroad after graduating from college, but eventually put his plan aside and concentrated on establishing his company, Living Innovations.

Creating a niche Living Innovations is borne out of Ferdie’s determination to provide Filipinos with the best when it comes to home

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Ferdie still believed that his risk would pay off. And it did.

He made his first sale in the second month of business, to a young entrepreneur who trusted his products even though the store was new. “I consider that my most memorable sale because it proved to me that all the gamble paid off, and that I trusted my gut feel and it worked,” says Ferdie.

From being a one-man team who does everything from marketing to dealing with suppliers to store design, he now has over 20 employees. Living Innovations started out with a 75-square meter showroom in Shangri-la Retail Arcade along Ayala Avenue in Makati in 2002. The store has since moved to a more expansive space in the same building and carries more than a dozen brands, which include Bulthaup, modular kitchen counters and cabinets, Gaggenau, premier kitchen appliances, Dedon, innovative outdoor furniture, and Minotti, Italian indoor furnishings. He selects every single piece, and only chooses products that he himself would go for. They may cost millions of pesos, but the high quality and workmanship of the products make them practical investments.

As Ferdie sees it, his store’s location is part of the whole strategy. Only those who know what they want to buy and can afford the stuff actually come in the store. In fact, his growing list of clients proves that people indeed regard these upscale furniture and furnishings as a part of life, and not just a luxury. And they’ve been coming back for additional purchases and upgrades.

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He believes that in order to create a lasting business, one must keep his word—deliver what has been promised on time. Treating everybody with respect, from his employees and especially the clients, is something he also lives by. “You never know if the person who walks in but doesn’t buy now may purchase later on or know people who would.”

Moreover, he believes that his business helps in furthering the interests of the local industry. “One of the visions for my company was to show Filipinos how good quality can command a good price.” he says. “Bringing in luxury brands promotes competition and hopefully this will serve as an inspiration for us to adopt global standards or even surpass them.”

Personal note Even with a dedicated staff around him, Ferdie remains very much hands-on with the business. “My mentality is to work hard now and take advantage of what’s in front of me. One good thing about this business is that I enjoy it,” he says.

“I’ve been doing it for 10 years already, and I still like what I’m doing. It’s in my system so I don’t see it as work.”

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But a man must not be all work and no play. This bachelor considers traveling as his way to unwind. “It gives me fresh perspectives and inspirations.” Milan and New York are very memorable to him; the former being where he got started with the entire business and the latter where he went to by himself for a personal vacation. He admires the mix of modern and historical culture of Vienna, Austria, and hopes his next travel destination would be Spain.

At 31, Ferdie has built a name for himself and Living Innovations, and has already accomplished a lot—maybe more than people his age. “I do think I have accomplished a few things already, but there are still a lot of things that I want to do. For the business, I’d like to introduce more brands to the Philippine market in the next few years and create more lifestyle concepts that will uplift the design IQ of Filipinos,” he shares. “On the personal side, I want to learn about home accessorizing and landscaping. I find them interesting and related to my line of work.”

Indeed, there’s no slowing down Ferdie anytime soon, and lucky for him, he is on the right track. / / / /

“I consider that my most memorable sale because it proved to me that all the gamble paid off, and that I trusted my gut feel and it worked.�

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/ / / / May I never wake up from the American dream. —Carrie Latet / / / /

/ / / / Images Martin Favis and Kariz Tanya Favis Words and Styling by Kariz Tanya Favis Hair by Patricia Morales Make-up by K.C. Fee Photography Assistant Stephen Seidel Editorial Assistant Amy Highfill Styling Assistant Ashley Avignone Graphics by Mark Cabalang 74

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The gates of The Charlie Hotel in West Hollywood close on about five paparazzi who have just “accosted” Camila Alves. It’s a mystery how they have radar for these things, as today’s shoot is a particularly low-key one.

The olive-skinned, Brazilian stunner seems undeterred by them anyway, especially since her brood of four is one of the most candidly photographed in the world— thanks to a long and solid partnership with the actor she refers to as her ‘man,’ Matthew McConaughey, and their children, levi and vida

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Camila drove herself to our location, which was a sign of what type of person we would be dealing with for the afternoon. It was even more of a pleasant surprise that she arrives not just on time, but early—a magazine crew’s true dream. In the Philippines, someone of her stature would usually be with an entourage of at least three (driver, assistant, bodyguard), but she seems, well, rather normal.

Normal, but not in the least bit ordinary. It also has to be mentioned that despite a throbbing headache (that was somewhat relieved by a salad and Shakira’s Hips Don’t Lie), she was purely professional and pleasant throughout.

Born in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, she spent her childhood between the beaches of Bahia and the farmlands of Minas Gerais. Her mom, Fatima, is a fashion designer, and her father, a farmer. Camila left South America with her mother when she was just 15 to visit relatives in California. She recounts, “When I got on the plane I turned to my mother and said, ‘I know I’m not coming back.’ And she said, ‘Yeah, I know that.’ That was the beginning of everything.” She decided to stay without even knowing how to speak a word of English—which makes her ‘fairy tale’ truly one that resonates with women who have risked it all to succeed.

“The best thing a man can do is be sensitive to what a woman is going through, and laugh with her. He laughed with me.” spark

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“I had one day in New York City. I went to every single modeling agency and everyone said no, except this last agency. At that point, I was crying in the street.”

THIS PAGE: BLUE KNIT PULLOVER BY RALPH LAUREN

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“When I got on the plane I turned to my mother and said, ‘I know I’m not coming back.’ That was the beginning of everything.”

After a series of odd jobs in restaurants and cleaning homes to make ends meet, she moved to the big City at 19 to pursue—you guessed it—modeling. Camila recalls that, “I had one day in New York City. I went to every single modeling agency and everyone said no, except this last agency, Major Models. At that point, I was crying in the street.” Soon after the rejections came ad campaigns, billboards (a Jockey ad in Times Square only some months later was her launch pad), movie roles, and magazine covers.

As of late, you can catch her on the tube hosting Shear Genius, which specifically revolves on a woman’s crowning glory and the people behind it. She also designs unique, luxury leather handbags together with her mother for their unique line called MUXO. It is also noteworthy that her choice of a stunning Kaufman Franco low-V neck gown at this year’s Academy Awards is arguably one of 2011’s best in red-carpet style, proving her just as equal in arm (and eye) candy factor as her life partner is.

Speaking of, she describes her little brood with McConaughey as, “It’s just like a regular family. We both do the cooking. We have a good balance, and we both help each other.” She adds that, “The best thing a man can do is be sensitive to what a woman is going through, and laugh with her. He laughed with me.”

At the end of our shoot, she drives off in her Range, rushing to avoid the crazy Malibu traffic, where she will go home to her heartbreakingly beautiful family. They don’t call them American Dreams for nothing. / / / /

alves at a glance: with her co-hosts at Shear Genius. Modeling portfolio. Atthe 2011 Academy Awards. Beachside with beau, Matthew McConaughey.

Camila with her MUXO bags.

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Maggie WilsonCONSUNJI:

Glory Box / / / / Images BJ Pascual Styling Carla Sibal Words Bianca R. Salonga

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Green Grecian wrap-front satin dress by Lanvin (P82,298) spark

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Gray polo shirt with white collar lace by Lanvin (P25,598); Gray pumps by YSL

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Once in a great while, a world is shaken up by something completely out of the ordinary. On those rare blue moons, what is considered acceptable or conventional is threatened by change. Revolution.

It is an idea often greeted by controversy and judgment. Model and host Maggie Wilson-CONSUNJI knows this all too well and speaks her mind—no holds barred

the idea of a few raised eyebrows, she reflects, “Everybody is entitled to their own opinions. All of my friends and family loved it, and that’s what really matters—the good reaction of those you love.” Ever the candid subject, she also clarifies with much humor, “The video was Vic’s idea!”

She has that kind of glow that one can expect of a newlywed.

As she walks around the Pietro showroom in a pair of YSL tribute pumps and a draped Acne dress, she nonchalantly reads out loud an SMS that her husband had just sent. “I think I know where Victor is going to take me. He has been talking about the Maldives for some time now and based on this message, I get the feeling that this is where we are going for the weekend,” the statuesque beauty shares. Her name is Maggie Wilson-Consunji, and one can only expect that she will not filter nor sugarcoat the words that will come out of her mouth.

“He [Victor] is such a terrible liar! I, on the other hand, am so bad with surprises that I just need to know what he is cooking up,” she says openly. She is, of course, talking about a so-called surprise trip out of town that, according to Maggie, Victor has been trying to keep from her. It had only been several months since Maggie tied the knot with the construction magnate. Their union was one accompanied by its fair share of talk among circles. A few weeks before the wedding, the couple became the stuff of intrigue and dispute due to a prenuptial video which had been uploaded on the net that shook the city. Using a hit song from Portishead, Glory Box, they created a short film that had many in cyberspace, on the papers, and even within private conversations commenting—some good and others less than ideal. The video, which had taken on a completely different spin from your usual sugary-sweet prenup shoots, had quickly garnered an amazing number of hits, making them the most talked about couple in town. It had received mixed reviews from highly artistic, to steamy, to plain scandalous—depending which voice is speaking out. Maggie had once been quoted explaining, “About our prenup video, it was never supposed to go viral, but it did. Along with going viral came many reactions. I’d say 90% of the comments were great and the other 10% weren’t.” A woman with her own convictions and who certainly will not be intimidated by

Her wedding in Misibis Bay Raintree Resort in Albay had also been absolutely unforgettable. And true to the adventurous and spontaneous nature of Maggie, the day had in store for her many interesting twists and turns. On the wedding day itself, the couple had to rush for an impromptu church wedding before proceeding with the beach wedding later in the day. She recalls, “At around 2 P.M., we were told that we couldn’t get married on the beach at 4:30 P.M. unless we got married in the church first. So everybody started to scramble to get ready for the church wedding. We ended up doing the beach ceremony at 6:30 P.M. What was supposed to be a sunset wedding had turned into a night wedding.”

As if the gods were watching and bestowing approval upon them, rain had poured down on the couple just as they were about to seal the deal with their ‘I dos.’ Maggie describes, “The weather wasn’t on our side that day. The heavens decided to cry (heavy rain) just as we started our vows. It was incredible. Even if everybody was getting drenched, guests stayed to finish the ceremony.” Hitches and all, Maggie concludes, “It was like a movie and it could not have been written better.”

Despite all that had gone down from prenup to wedding day, Maggie now appears impervious—especially since things have finally been set in place. She is certainly adjusting well to married life, taking time out to learn the joys of cooking and decorating their home with interior decorator Robin da Roza. And while life at home suits her just fine, Maggie is far from being your typical Desperate Housewife. She explains, “It feels as though nothing has changed since our wedding.

Of course, we no longer go out as much as we used to. Now, we prefer to stay in most nights. When we do have a night out, it is always together. I now find that I am never alone.

We go on trips often. Both of us love to travel and explore new places.”

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“When Victor proposed, I knew that he was going to do it.�

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OPPOSITE PAGE: Maroon Tupie Chiffon Dress (P24,398) by Lanvin

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This page: Purple Faubourg robe dress (P79,998); Black patent leather wedge shoes (P32,198) both by Lanvin Opposite page: Pink top by Acne (P14,298); Gray pumps by YSL model’s own

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“About our prenup video, it was never supposed to go viral, but it did.”

Maggie, whose workload used to entail endless hours taping for an MTV show and a reality show about beauty queens, has momentarily taken a step back to spend more time at home. She explains, “I love to host and still remain open to hosting jobs. The only difference is that now I would prefer if the working hours were not too long.” When she was working as a host for MTV, she shares that the hours were long and tedious. “The schedule was crazy because, aside from taping the episodes itself, we also had to take the artists out. What I loved about that job was that I got paid to talk and to go out,” she remembers. Having also been a model before her becoming a beauty queen, Maggie reveals that she misses the excitement backstage during fashion shows.

“I miss working on the runway. After I won the pageant, I still did a few shows but only for designer friends like Cary Santiago. I miss doing that,” she confides.

While certainly, most of what one has heard about Maggie is her life under the spotlight, she also goes on to share a side to her fairy tale love story that not many people have come to know. Aside from the fact that, of course, that there was that controversial prenuptial video, a pink diamond ring that has many among bride-zilla circles green with envy, not to mention the stunning Vera Wang gown and the three-day wedding celebration in a dream location, there are many things about the life Maggie has come to know that can bring smile to the lips of even the most jaded.

At the moment, Maggie is busy collaborating with good friend and fellow beauty queen title-holder Sandra Seifert in a luxe swimwear line called Solara. One who loves travel, adventure and culture, Maggie aspires to create pieces that will be reflective of the laid-back yet ultimately glamorous ways distinct to her lifestyle. She further describes her schedule, “My usual working day consists of a morning meeting with my manufacturer. Then I have lunch with my husband, squeeze in a photo shoot in the afternoon and sit down for more meetings for Solara. At night, we usually have events or a dinner date.” Tapings easily take up full days for Maggie but she declares, “The weekends are strictly family time.”

She shares, “When Victor proposed, I knew that he was going to do it.” On a trip to Bali—one of the first few the two had taken as a couple—Maggie entered the villa’s bathroom that had been set up with candles and rose petals. “Right there by the tub sat a box containing the ring and at that moment he proposed,” she shares. Previous to that incident, however, Victor had given Maggie a scare. “We were having dinner with my dad and Victor suddenly took out a box with a ring in it. I started to cry and freak out until he reassured me, ‘This is not a proposal. It’s a promise ring to let you and your family know about my intentions. The ring I have for when I propose to you is still on its way from Israel.’” The ring soon enough came and landed on Maggie’s left hand.

“I’m so tired of playing. Playin’ with the bow and arrow.

Going to give my heart away. Leave it to the other girls to play. For I’ve been a temptress too long,” sings Portishead in Glory Box. Maggie Wilson-Consunji could have just as well been the one singing each line in the song. Her free-spirited nature, verve and unapologetic approach to honesty explain why she certainly is, living in a glory box. / / / /

Makeup Leo Posadas Hair Felicity Son of Kiehl’s Styling Assistant Irish Degala Special thanks to Ms. Rowena Domingo of The Pietro Collection La Fuerza Compound

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There was a time when you got inside a Volvo primarily because you wanted to feel safe. Never mind that it looked dull and handled like a tank. This however, was then / / / / Words AG Puyat Images Courtesy of Volvo

Volvo S60 T6 your Vocabulary As of late, the Swedish car maker has been shaking up the scene with some unusually interesting offerings. Fans of the movie Twilight would be keen to notice the chic hatchback called the C30 that starred in the film. Fast track a couple of years forward, and the city slicker SUV that could stop on its own was unveiled…the Volvo XC60. Sophisticated and versatile, it looked stunning on and off the road. Now we have what easily is the most exhilarating car to come out of Gothenburg—the all-new S60 T6. Buckle up, this Swede means business.

“The S60 has been sculpted to move you. Every single line in its design is there to transport you both physically and emotionally.” says Peter Horbury, Design Director for Volvo. The vehicle’s external profile is guided by the expression “coupe-feeling,” or giving the passengers that sense of being in a sleek two-door. Looking at it, you can already sense an aggression that’s been wisely tempered with Volvo’s long standing commitment to safety. ‘Safe but exciting’ seems to be the declarative statement here.

Inside, the newfound adventurous temperament pervades.

“The interior has a more extrovert attitude. Volvo designers have added excitement, contrast, and playfulness to the rational simplicity of Scandinavian design tradition,” adds Horbury. Extrovert? Playful? Volvo’s growing vocabulary is indicative of the kind of car the S60 is. Quality in build and finish is to be expected, but now with a flare unfounded in Volvo’s of yore. Functionality is maintained of course: take for instance the sculpted rear seats that provide 30mm more knee space.

If your appetites haven’t been whetted yet, then let me tell you about how it drives. Believe me, being safe was never this fun. It all begins with the mighty 6-cylinder engine that resides up-front. Using a variable geometry turbo, the S60 T6 is significantly more powerful than the model it replaces.

All 304 willing and able horses are on standby, just waiting for that right foot of yours to tap. When unleashed, a gutwrenching 440 Nm of twist hurls this 5 seating sport sedan to 100 km/h from rest in only 6 seconds, about 4 seconds faster than normal, road-going cars.

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All this power is nothing without control, and here is where Volvo has done its homework. It’s easy to simply make a car go fast in a straight line, but carrying this momentum with aplomb is another thing. Stefan Sallquist, in charge of chassis development, sums it up best, “Really good steering is intuitive. The car appears to sense your driving intentions while they are just thoughts in your mind.” The car now does a better job of communicating with the driver, able to take tight turns with ample confidence. It continues to pamper those inside, but also indulges the driver during times where he or she wants to play.

A few things begin to stand out once you get acclimatized with the S60. First is the luxurious and solid feel. Close the door and you will hear a robust thud, assuring you that build quality is top-rate. Noise outside is isolated so that the cabin feels very serene. Then you get a feel that this is one technologically advanced automobile. Take for instance its Pedestrian Detection with full auto-brake. Through an onboard radar sensor and outside mounted camera, the S60 can sense if there are pedestrians in front of the vehicle.

If the car gets too close without slowing down, it will alert you with a loud beep. Should you not decrease speed, it will automatically brake for you and upon near impact, apply full braking power to stop the car. Now how cool is that?

Finally, the S60, while being a fast ride, is also very easy to pilot. Despite its size and low roofline, the car remains a relaxing drive with good visibility and light steering feel. Of course, tech toys are also present. The infotainment system is spearheaded by Volvo’s Human Machine Interface, an easy to navigate tool that allows you to tinker with vehicle and stereo settings. The test unit I was given had excellent speakers too, and from what I gather is equipped with Dolby Digital speakers.

Ask the average Joe about Volvos, and you’re likely to be given an impression that relates to safety. With the allnew S60 though, people are going to begin pulling new adjectives from their pocket dictionaries. Just like Volvo’s ever expanding vocabulary, you too will eventually grow yours just to describe it. Exhilarating? Stirring? You tell me.

I, for one, can’t wait for another stint behind the wheel. / / / /

Specifications: Engine 3.0L 6 cylinder twin scroll turbocharger Power 304 hp @ 5600 rpm Torque 440 Nm @ 2100-4200 rpm Transmission -speed Geartronic Driver Adaptive Top Speed 250 km/h Price P3,595,000

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STORE BEAUTY / GROOMING

ACCA KAPPA, ANNICK GOUTAL, BOBBI BROWN, CHLOÉ, CLIVEN Rustan’s Department Store Makati, Alabang Town Center, and Shangri-La EDSA Plaza Mall / ESCADA Greenbelt 5 Ayala Center Makati / ESTÉE LAUDER, GENDARME, GUERLAIN Rustan’s Department Store Makati, Alabang Town Center, and Shangri-La EDSA Plaza Mall / KÉRASTASE leading beauty, grooming stores and all Kérastase partner salons nationwide / KIEHL’S Greenbelt 5 Ayala Center Makati / L’OCCITANE Rustan’s Department Store Makati, Alabang Town Center, and Shangri-La EDSA Plaza Mall / L’OREAL PARIS leading beauty and grooming stores nationwide / LANVIN, LA PRAIRIE, LAURA MERCIER, MURAD Rustan’s Department Store Makati, Alabang Town Center, and Shangri-La EDSA Plaza Mall / MAC COSMETICS Rustan’s Glorietta 3, Trinoma Mall, Powerplant Mall Rockwell, SM Mall of Asia, Shangri-La EDSA Plaza Mall / MARC JACOBS Rustan’s Department Store Makati, Alabang Town Center, and Shangri-La EDSA Plaza Mall / NEUTROGENA available at selected Watsons stores, SM Department store beauty counters, leading beauty and grooming stores nationwide / OFFICINA PROFUMO-FARMACEUTICA Rustan’s Department Store Makati, Alabang Town Center, and Shangri-La EDSA Plaza Mall / POND’S Available at all leading supermarkets, department stores and drugstores / PÜR Rustan’s Essenses, Ayala Center Makati / SKIN INC. DERMATOLOGY AND LASER CENTER Suite 303 Tritan Plaza Building Paseo De Magallanes, Magallanes Village Makati +63 2 853 3024

FASHION

ACNE Homme et Femme Shangri-La EDSA Plaza Mall / AZUCAR Greenbelt 5 Ayala Center Makati / BALENCIAGA Homme et Femme Shangri-La EDSA Plaza Mall, Univers at Rockwell Mall and Greenbelt 5 Makati / BOSS BLACK, BOTTEGA VENETA Greenbelt 4 Ayala Center Makati / BURBERRY Greenbelt 4 Makati, Rustan’s Makati, Shangri-La EDSA Plaza Mall / BVLGARI Greenbelt 5 Ayala Center Makati / CARTIER Rustan’s Makati, Alabang Town Center, and Shangri-La EDSA Plaza Mall / COMME DES GARÇONS, DIOR HOMME Homme et Femme Shangri-La EDSA Plaza Mall, Adora Department Store Greenbelt 5 Makati / EMPORIO ARMANI Greenbelt 4 Ayala Center Makati / FRED PERRY Greenbelt 5 Ayala Center Makati / G2000 SM San Lazaro, SM Manila, SM Mall of Asia, Robinson’s Ermita / GUCCI Greenbelt 4 Ayala Center Makati / H&M hm.com / HAVAIANAS All Flip Flops Bonifacio High Street, Glorietta 4, Greenbelt 5 / HERMÈS Greenbelt 3 Ayala Center Makati / JEROME LORICO jeromelorico.com / KENNETH COLE Greenbelt 4 Ayala Center Makati / LESPORTSAC Greenbelt 5 Ayala Center Makati / LOUIS VUITTON, PRADA Greenbelt 4 Ayala Center Makati / PENSHOPPE Alabang Town Center, Glorietta Mall, SM Makati, The Landmark, SM Megamall, Eastwood Mall / RALPH LAUREN Rustan’s Stores / RAY-BAN Adora Department Store Greenbelt 5 Makati / RICK OWENS Univers G/F One Rockwell, Rockwell Center, Makati / SALVATORE FERRAGAMO Greenbelt 4 Ayala Center Makati / THOM BROWNE Homme et Femme ShangriLa EDSA Plaza Mall, Univers at Rockwell Mall, Makati / TWEEN, TYLER Adora Department Store Greenbelt 5 Makati / U-BOAT G/F Shop 7B Resorts World Manila, Newport City, Pasay / YSL Rustan’s Makati, Greenbelt 4 / ZARA Shangri-La EDSA Plaza Mall, Mandaluyong, Greenbelt 5 Makati, Powerplant Mall, Rockwell Makati, Glorietta 3 Makati, SM Mall of Asia, Trinoma Mall

LIFESTYLE

AUTOHAUS BMW 184 E. Rodriguez Ave., Libis Quezon City / BANG & OLUFSEN Living Innovations Corporation 2/F Makati Shangri-La Retail Arcade, Ayala Ave., Makati City +632 830 2230 or +632 812-2649 Email livinginnovations@ beostores.com / CIBO DI M +632 729 0030 cibodiM@yahoo.com / EMIRATES +632 858 5300, +632 811 5293 or emirates. com/ph / HOTEL LINE, MAGODIE Rustan’s Department Store Makati, Alabang Town Center, and Shangri-La EDSA Plaza Mall / THE MILANO RESIDENCES +632 818 9041 or milanoresidences.com.ph / MINOTTI owned and operated by Living Innovations Corporation 2/F Makati Shangri-La Retail Arcade, Ayala Ave., Makati City +63 2 830 2230 / NOKIA, SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS available at authorized distributors nationwide / RCR CRYSTAL, ROBERT WELCH, ROYAL DOULTON Rustan’s Department Store Makati, Alabang Town Center, and Shangri-La EDSA Plaza Mall / SILVERLENS GALLERY 2/F YMC Bldg. II, 2320 Pasong Tamo Ext., Makati +63 2 816-0044 / SPAZIO Unit 101 First Midland Condominium, 109 Gamboa St., Legaspi Village, Makati, +632 856 1162 / VOLVO 2272 Chino Roces Ave., (formerly Pasong Tamo Extension) Makati City + 63 2 893-6621 to 22; 893-6626 to 27

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D’INDIENNES Hermès boutique in Greenbelt 3 was transformed into a photo studio to celebrate the many ways of tying an Hermès silk scarf. Guests were invited to lose themselves in the fantasy garden at Studio Hermès. This two-night affair for media press and clients were both hosted by top models Bianca Valerio and Valerie De Los Santos. The two ladies explained and demonstrated the infinite ways of tying and using a silk scarf. After the presentation, guests were invited to come up and show the audience what they had learned that evening and were then escorted to the photo booth where they could take their photos against the Fleurs d’Indiennes backdrop. The intimate occasion was catered by The Peninsula Manila and Piper-Heidsieck champagne was served along with Georges Duboeuf wines.

1 Rupert Jacinto and FILA’s Cris Albert 2 Jun Jun and Marge Lopez, Catherine Huang, Jia and Gabby Estrella 3 Tyler’s Christine Tan 4 Sheila Kingsu 5 Valerie De Los Santos 6 Jazz Ona 7 Bianca Valerio 8 Ruby Gan 9 SPARK Magazine’s Carla Sibal 10 Vicki Belo and Cristalle Henares

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Divine and spectacular would be the most fitting words to describe the press launch of Société de Kérastase, the exclusive VIP program of Kérastase, a premium luxury brand in hair care and beauty expert visionary since 1964. Held at Bistro Filipino (which is owned by the respected duo, Chef Rolando and Jackie Laudico), members of the press and bloggers were treated to dark dining, a unique culinary experience in which light is removed, thus enabling guests to use their other, heightened senses to guess the dishes presented to them—very reminiscent of the film, When in Rome. This year, Kérastase unveiled its VIP Program called Société de Kérastase, which was inspired by ‘Personalized Luxury’ designed to reward loyal clients—so they can further indulge in its iconic home care products and unforgettable Kérastase rituals.

With a minimum spend of P10, 000, a Kérastase client becomes a member of this elite club and starts enjoying exciting rewards through points earned. In addition, Société de Kérastase has a website, SociétédeKérastase.com, where clients can view product catalogue, salon directory as well as updates on promotions. True to the brand’s promise of innovation and expertise, Kérastase, has once again upped the ante in hair care luxury with the outstanding grand reveal of Société de Kérastase.

1 Charmaine Garcia-Laconico 2 Chef Jackie Laudico 3 Chef Rolando Laudico 4 Vicky Tensuan 5 The Kérastase Team Maita Gaerlan, Glowie Robillo and Prime Asprer 6 Isabel Roces 7 SPARK’s Contributing Beauty Editor Dra. Windie Hayano spark

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Asian Carmakers Corporation (ACC), the official distributor and importer of BMW cars in the country, has recently assigned Autohaus BMW in Libis as the official M Certified Dealership in the Philippines. With this, ACC is finally bringing to our local shores the high-performance character of combined power and exclusivity—the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M. Now, the discerning customer has the opportunity to enjoy the superior driving qualities of a BMW M car also in the segment of BMW X models: The BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M are the first all-wheel-drive models to offer the supreme performance, dynamic driving features, athletic design, and premium quality of a typical BMW M Car. Both models are powered by a newly developed V8 high-performance engine delivering 555 hp at an engine speed range between of 6,000 rpm from an engine capacity of 4,395cc. The new M TwinPower Turbo engine is indeed the world’s first power unit with a common exhaust manifold encompassing both rows of cylinders and featuring Twin Scroll Twin Turbo Technology. With the current new items in its model program and the further extended product range, BMW M GmbH has created an ideal basis for the continuation of its successful business development. Enthusiasm for exclusive high-performance vehicles in the premium segment continues unabated in automobile markets throughout the world.

1 Ry Farinas, Congressman Rudy Farinas and Spark’s Victor Aliwalas 2 Wilfred and Wesley Lim 3 Sales and Marketing Team, Autohaus and Prestige 4 Carlo Tirona 5 Pauline Gonzales and Peachy Hapitan 6 UnionBank Autoloans’ Enrique Sison, Liwayway Palaganas, Robin Tagud 7 Maricar C. Parco, President of A.C.C. and Alan H. Munoz, Development Director ACC 8 Senator Vicente C. Sotto III and Mario M. Gloria, President of Prestige and Autohaus 9 Enrique Severino, Benedikt Llana of Prestige Cars BMW 10 Host 11 Simon and Sheila Policarpio 12 Alan Munoz and Mark Ablaza

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Beef Tastes Better.

Premium Quality Meats Landmark Supermarket Makati . Trinoma

facebook.com/tenderlean

FIRST RATE 2

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Beautiful faces invaded Fiamma on the night of April 12th as Pond’s proved that it is still the country’s leading skin lightening product. The awarding ceremonies for the winners of “The Unbeaten Whitening Experience” commenced as nine of the most popular beauty bloggers of the country and their friends personified the evidence of Pond’s unmatched skin expertise. For three weeks, the nine teams used only Pond’s Flawless White products and documented their experiences through their blogs.

Winners were chosen through online votes by the public. The grand prize winners won a full makeover from Plains and Prints, and from CREATIONS by Lourd Ramos salon.

Mika-Lagdameo Martinez, Pond’s Flawless White Ambassador, graced the event with her admirable beauty and gave her testimony of how Pond’s has always been the brand of her choice when it comes to taking care of her skin. More than being her chosen beauty product, Pond’s has been her partner as the success of her personal and professional life unfolds through the years.

Testimonials from Mika-Lagdameo Martinez, the participants of the challenge, and women all over the country have proved that Pond’s Flawless White is all a woman needs for glowing and radiant skin.

1 Unbeaten Whitening Experience Editor’s Choice Winner Nikki Tiu and Sophie Uy 2 Pond’s Flawless White Ambassador Mika Lagdameo-Martinez 3 Pond’s Assistant Brand Manager Julian Gollayan 4 Unbeaten Whitening Experience Grand Prize and People’s Choice Winners Ginger Arboleda and Reena Sarmiento 6 Pond’s Senior Brand Manager Jacqueline Yuengtian and Pond’s Brand Ambassador Rissa Mananquil

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01 Kérastase Age Recharge’s VITA-RESOURCE COMPLEX As today’s women are becoming more aware of scalp aging, they now have the best solution to replenish their scalp and hair altered by the effects of time.With Kérastase Age Recharge’s VITA-RESOURCE COMPLEX, hair is restructured by its vital substance Vita-Ciment. This restores body to the hair to make it thicker and provides hair losing substance with density, softness, and shine all at once. Being an iconic product, it gives firmness to ageing hair and giving back its youthful suppleness.

Age Recharge Masque P2227 available at all leading beauty stores and partner salons nationwide

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MARC JACOBS BANG BANG Dynamic, confidently cool, and an independent spirit with a clean sophistication, defines this fresh new fragrance for men by Marc Jacobs. It has a refreshing citrus top that feels cool and light on the skin. Its masculine heart is wrapped with sandalwood, and the base lingers with rich cashmere musk, leaving a touch of comfortable sophistication.

The eye-catching and iconic bang bottle is refreshed with a bold metallic blue color palette, which exudes energy.

Marc Jacobs Bang Bang available at all Rustan’s Department Stores

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The Samsung Series 9 notebook was lauded for its outstanding achievement in outdoor readability, superior performance and environmental features. It targets the global premium notebook market. Crafted from duralumin, a lightweight material twice as strong as aluminum and normally used in advanced aircraft design, the ultralightweight, 1.31kg notebook features a superior ergonomic and aesthetic design. The notebook’s Super Bright Plus display with 400nit brightness, which is 100 percent brighter than conventional displays, as well as its vibrant color reproduction (16 million colors) creating 60 times greater color depth and contrast ratio (1,300:1), make it one of the most beautiful notebook displays on the market.

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CHLOÈ’S LOVE, CHLOÈ EAU INTENSE Enriched with an oriental facet, with a powdery floral aura composed by perfumers, Louise Turner and Nathalie Cetto-Gracia (Givaudan), this fragrance infuses elegance and natural radiant charm. Its subtle blend of iris, heliotropine, fresh flowers and musk is reminiscent of the scent of iconic cosmetics, talcs and face powders. It also reveals new coppery highlights, and flirts with the depth of amber, which gradually resonates on the skin like a sensual, irresistible vibration.

Love, Chloe Eau Intense available at all Rustan’s Department Stores

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NEUTROGENA NEW HYDRO BOOST LINE

As one of the Philippines’ leading casual clothing brands, Penshoppe prides itself in creating a fresh but sophisticated take on comfortable clothing.

Beginning as a college project between friends dating back to 1986, the brand has now grown to provide a wide array of men and women’s clothing, accessories, and personal care items.

Grab a pair of Penshoppe jeans and spice up your everyday wardrobe.

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Dark circles and puffiness not only detract from the beauty of the eyes, but can also result in an overall aged and fatigued appearance. Estée Lauder Research has now identified four key sources which can lead to visible dark circles and puffiness around the eye: lack of micro-circulation, weak capillary structure, hyper pigmentation and irritation. To address the visible effects of these factors, Estée Lauder has developed New Idealist Cooling Eye Illuminator, specially-contoured, cooling ceramic-tip applicator, it instantly cools, massages and re-energizes the look of tired, puffy eyes, instantly makes dark circles look lighter.

New Idealist Cooling Eye Illuminator By Estée Lauder P3200 Available At Rustan’s Makati, Shangri-La, Alabang, Gateway, Cebu And Marionnaud, Mall Of Asia

PENSHOPPE

Penshoppe.com locations

ESTÉE LAUDER NEW IDEALIST COOLING EYE ILLUMINATOR

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With its breakthrough 12-Hour Progressive Release System, your skin will continuously get up to 200% hydration that it needs. It reduces dull appearance, fine lines and cracks to reveal smoother and more supple skin with: a combination of advanced hydrating elements. This helps promote the skin’s natural ability to create and hold on to its moisture to address the root cause of inner dryness.

Neutrogena New Hydro Boost Line available at all leading beauty stores

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LAST LOOK

Fine

Recall the sublimity of the distant past and the conviviality of the Orient within your reach. From the Hermès tableware collection, Cheval d’Orient showcases intricate polychromatic patterns and designs that take inspiration from late 16th and early 17th Century Persian frescoes, featuring elements of horse harnesses and saddle cloths. Be transported and let yourself be cast under a spell of nostalgia, with the touch of the hand-painted and burnished fine gold lines resonant in each piece.

Clockwise: Teacup and Saucer, Tea and coffee pot, Creamer, Dessert Plate, Soup Plate, Dinner Plate, and Underliner all by HermÈs available at Greenbelt 3

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/ / / / Words Jona Conopio Image Byron Henry Santiago

FASHION / MODERN DESIGN / FAR-OUT LIFESTYLES

WORLD EXCLUSIVE: Photographed and styled by the spark team

//// MAGGIE WILSON-CONSUNJI’s next chapter //// heir artist: Nicole Sy-Coson //// martin margiela and la Maison Champs-Elysées hotel //// GP Reyes’ double life //// BLOGGER mike lim makes waves online //// ferdie ong’s success story

CAMILA alves LIVES HER aMERICAN DREAM the TV host and model Opens Up about her past, and life with matthew mcconaughey

Sep 2011 P199