STATUS Magazine July 2017 feat. Dua Lipa by STATUS Magazine

is going against the current j uly 2017

4 MASTHEAD 5 CONTRIBUTORS 6 STATUS MESSAGE

FEATURES MAESTRO

58 SWEET

STATUSPHERE 9 THREADS 12 SETTING 13 BRICK & MORTAR 14 SCREEN 15 BEATS 16 TECH PACK

By Isa Almazan

60 TROPICAL

By Bianca Serrano

PAINT: SCARLET FLUSH

You’ve been red.

62 GOING

VANITIES: POST PUNK

By Denise Mallabo

STREET STYLE

64 SIDE

VISION BOARD SOCIETY

Experience romance along the beautiful streets of Paris in bold prints, ruffles, and pleats in complementary shades of blue, black, and white.

By Shaira Luna

28 STRANGER

THAN FICTION

Discover your wild side with a killer combo of latex, plastic, mesh, chains, and buckles that fulfill a modern day John Willie fantasy. By James Lopez

SHOPPING GUIDE

40 SWAG:

WATER PROOF

Turn up the heat this season with sizzling ensembles that are lit af.

42 EASY

BREEZY

Cold Breeze

44 CHILL

PILL

Cold Breeze

46 KNIT

PICKING

48 WARM

BODIES

Cozy

50 52 54 56

Cozy

OVER CAST

Drizzle

SILVER LINING

Drizzle

NORTHERN DOWNPOUR

Heavy Rains

STORM TROOPER

Heavy Rains

EFFECTS

Ready to take their music on the road, four-piece rock band Welles strays from the pack donning gritty, psychedelic sounds but with genuine, raw emotion in tow..

GO SEE

22 HIGH

INCOGNITO

Lady luck finds determination and talent in 23-year old Mark Johns, the smooth-voiced Molino crooner and newest child star of famous EDM producer Skrillex.

Beauty be dammed, let monsters reign.

FASHION 20

STORM

With her musical backbone ensured to stand tall and proud, Synead continues to record the synthesized turmoil in society, bridging the gap with a soulful voice.

BEAUTY 18 FACE

SIXTEEN

Only 16 years old, singing wonder Jasmine Thompson ceases her cathartic tunes, both mellow and vulnerable, and sets you free from the perils of growing up.

By Denise Mallabo

MASTERMIND

20TH CENTURY BOY

Age is but a number, and actor Lucas Jade Zumann is the epitome of youthful maturity in glorious technicolored indie dramas made for the young and yearning. By Janroe Cabiles

68 SONIC

MUSE

Bringing grunge and grace to the runway and studio, Delilah Belle Hamlin is a carefree spirit, stealing your attention with her angelic looks and vocals to boot. By Janroe Cabiles

70 DOG

DAYS ARE OVER

Fresh-faced newcomer Tom Taylor blazes to the front line as he brings to life Jake Chambers from Stephen King’s genre-defying magnum opus, The Dark Tower. By Bianca Serrano

72 NINE

LIVES

Actor and dancer Camren Bicondova is definitely a soldier of the new feminist world as the slick and feisty young Catwoman a.k.a. Selina Kyle, in the Fox’s Gotham. By Jam Nitura

is going against the current j u ly 2 0 1 7

HEAVY HITTER

104

Taking everything you know and love about pop and adding her own dark twists to it, charming bad girl Dua Lupa is working her way up the charts with her debut album, and she’s just getting warmed up. By Jill de Leon

82 STRANGER

STAGES

Traveling back in time at different ages, Caleb McLaughlin’s got reenacting a story down to a science. From Stranger Things to The New Edition Story, there’s not much this 15-year-old can’t do.

111 DIRECTORY

ELECTRIC LOVE

STATUS INVADES 112 GOLDEN GIRL

Helping girls understand their sexuality one track at a time, Hayley Kiyoko hopes to be the escape you need as she raises the flag for LGBTQ youth, proving that she ain’t just another sweet girl on the mic.

Unconventional yet bold, model and artist Sherlaine Yap is setting her own beauty standards while rocking the art world with both her body and her pen.

By Pola Beronilla

By Denise Mallabo

By Janroe Cabiles

OFF THE RECORD

For 13 Reasons Why actor Justin Prentice, playing a bad guy is not an easy task, but he’s always up for a challenge to take his passion for acting to the next level, while bringing to light dark topics. days, the sunny streets of LA, and her love of food, taking surreal images of the mundane. Everything’s better with hue and her around.

NEW RULES

LOST AND FOUND

Chiming out powerful lyrics forged with honesty, Daniel Caesar stemmed from worship hymns to true rhythm and blues as a starving artist, flexing his raw talent with vulnerability in his vocal chords.

By Pola Beronilla

ABOUT THE COVER It’s the darker side of Dua Lipa that makes us feel so numb as she flashes a twinkle in her eye and inked on her finger. Against the mustard backdrop hidden from the streets of Manila, the anti-pop princess poses for photographer Miguel Alomajan with as much attitude as her album has, never going out of style.

statusmagonline.com

BLOGSPHERE

the pulse of hip at your fingertips

GO SEE

we’re all models off duty. smize!

FEATURES

there’s more to what’s in print

PHOTO DIARY confessional for lensmen

DIGITAL MAGAZINE DOWNLOADS STATUS in pixels, not paper

free mixtapes and wallpapers

is going against the current July 2017

editor-in-chief

Rosario Herrera @RosarioHerrera

managing editor

Denise Mallabo @denisemallabo

art director

Nyael David @nyaels

fashion editor

Jill de Leon @orangetoenails

editorial assistant

Janroe Cabiles @janroetheboat

sr. graphic designer

Nadine Layon @nadinelayon

jr. graphic designer

Sheila Gomez @sheilarenei

contributing writers

contributing artists

interns

Isa Almazan, Honey Bautista, Pola Beronilla

Juliana Alabado, Jack Alexander, Miguel Alomajan, Mong Amado, Shradha Arora, Francesco Brazzo, Marcus Cardona, Cats Del Rosario, Apple Fara-on, Shanna Fisher, Matthew Green, Jamie Huggins, Gabriel Langenbrunner, Phil Limprasertwong, Shaira Luna, James Lopez, Faysal Matin, Magdalena Niziol, Carlo Nuñez, Maria Ortega, Lorenzo Posocco, Irvin Rivera, Daniel Santillan, Shiyena, Flo Trinidad, Yu Tsai, Sam Zachrich Borgy Angeles, Therese Baluyot, Aya de Guzman, Gian Latorre, Ednalyn Lazaro, Jamina Nitura, Bianca Serrano, Joanne Tañedo

What’s your STATUS? tell us. editorial editorial@statusmagonline.com advertising advertise@statusmagonline.com marketing marketing@statusmagonline.com general inquiries info@statusmagonline.com follow us facebook.com/statusmagazine twitter.com/statusmagazine instagram: statusmagazine STATUS is published by STATUS Media Group. Reproduction without permission is prohibited.

C ONTRIBU TOR S

Jack Alexander Working with huge names such as Ed Sheeran and Kim Kardashian, no one would ever notice that Jack Alexander’s photography skills are all self-taught. During the golden hour or even on the gloomiest day, Jack continues to be the master of photoshoots producing stunning portraits. Previously captured through his lens is boy-next-door and 20th Century Women star Lucas Jade Zumann [66].

Faysal Matin Whether it may be cool-toned, warm-toned, or even monochrome, Faysal Matin aces the photography scene through his contemporary style. Capturing and incorporating portraits with street photography, he had caught the attention of distinguished companies like NYLON and Teen Vogue. Recently, Faysal perfectly photographed the upcoming R&B and pop singer Synead, all in cotton candy hues [60].

Shradha Arora Los Angeles-based Shradha Arora is a fashion pro acing different kinds of styles, from athleisure to red carpet. With her first styling stint with Emily Osment, Shradha continued to grow in the industry by being published in magazines like Glam and Prune. Aside those, she has also ventured into styling music videos, advertisements and now, 13 Reasons Why actor Justin Prentice [96].

Pola Beronilla A former Features Editor for here at STATUS, Pola Beronilla is an excelling writer infusing wit and brilliance to her works. Alongside writing, she fell in love and expresses her passion for comic books, Pokémon, Star Wars, and everything geeky. With Beronilla’s diligence with her work, she speaks to Hayley Kiyoko and Daniel Caesar and talks about their passion and artistry [82, 90].

STATU S MESSAG E

IS GOING AGAINST THE CURRENT B

orn and raised in a digital world, “kids” these days are getting instant gratification at a click of a button. Programmed into a world where results come quick and easy, we shouldn’t be surprised if Gen Y is also expecting the same in real life. Where child stars were once few and far between, it has become the norm in today’s world to pursue your dreams at a young age. In our Youth Issue, we gathered the young visionaries and hustlers that want nothing more than to contribute to the culture on their own terms. British singer and songwriter Dua Lipa is a stunning beauty standing tall at the top of the charts. It’s not only her look that’s getting everyone’s attention; it’s her soulful voice and edgy style that are turning heads. Entering the music industry at the age of 14 clearly shows just how driven and independent she is. At 21, she shares with us the lessons she’s learned in the music industry, what it’s like to work alongside top musicians, and what her ultimate goal is. Even in Hollywood, shooting up to the top of the A-List takes timing, talent, and hard work. Actor Caleb McLaughlin did just that, garnering worldwide recognition and prominence by playing Lucas Sinclair in Netflix sci-fi series Stranger Things. Before getting busy shooting Season 2, we catch up with him during our shoot in LA and pick is brain as to what it’s like for him to be on a breakout show, the similarities and differences between him and his character, and advice he has for aspiring actors. Working as an actor since the age of nine, Justin Prentice has built quite the acting resume. Now at 23 and he landing himself a pivotal role on the hit teen mystery-drama 13 Reasons Why. Although the show has been criticized for its controversial topic of bullying, rape, and teen suicide, it does what it aims to do and reveals the disturbing side to what teens are facing today. Justin shares with us his advice to teens that are being bullied, how he prepared for the role, and the positive difference he hopes the show can make. Electric pop singer-songwriter Hayley Kiyoko is eager to make a social impact through her music. Although she started her career in acting at the age of five, her first love was always music. Transitioning from acting to singing, the 26-year-old has hit success yet again as a solo artist with 71 million YouTube views on her breakout hit “Girls Like Girls.” Apart from supporting the LGBTQ community through her lyrics, she tells us what she’s no longer afraid of and what she wants to give her fans through music. Toronto native Daniel Caesar has been releasing soulful beats since 2014 with his first EP Praise Break. With his breakout “Get You,” it’s crazy to think that the 21-year old musician once let go of the chance to pursue a career in music. Now with a global following, the R&B singer-songwriter is raising the bar for what’s possible for soulful singers in the digital age. During our interview, he opens up about his writing process, his fans, and what fuels him to keep him moving forward. Even though this youth generation has grown up in a world where information comes quickly, they still worked their way up like everyone else. Whether it’s through song or script, they are taking over culture as we know it.

Editor-in-chief

FASHION

www.starstyle.ph

BEAUTY

CELEBRITY

@starstyleph

THREADS / setting / BRICK AND MORTAR / SCREEN / BEATS / TECH PACK july 2017

queen bee N

ot for the faint of heart, KIM SHUI’s Fall/ Winter 2017 collection is a monument to a reformed feminine form. Featuring patent leather, metallic detailing, and baby blue fur, the Italian-raised designer proves herself to be the raddest of them all with her bold yet showstopping affair with fashion. kimshui.net

techno vision S

eeing the digitally revolutionized world from a pair of post-industrial lens, VAVA’s newest release zooms in on a contemporary and conceptual design that shapes the mechanism of modern art. With a double vision of perfect symmetry, the brand manages to create a pared back look with a futuristic aesthetic to match the modern maverick. vava.com

dress code T

ailoring the world in understated elegance and keen attention for detail, QASIMI pins it down with a traditional Middle Easterninspired blueprint that meets the crossroad of European style. Underlying its minimalist tone is an architectural design with a military twist, from silhouettes such as bomber jackets, tops, car coats, parkas, and long line shirts. qasimi.com

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THREADS

BRANDS TO KNOW

bucket list I

t may only be the third brightest star in the Orion, but BLTRX undoubtedly shines vividly amongst luxury leather bags. The Israel-based brand packs a punch as designer Tamar Friedman gives a modern spin to handcrafted bucket bags, foldovers, and clutches with bold detailing from tassels, patterns, and fringe to textures and statement hues. bltrx.com

gone brogue G

shape Shifter E

mbracing the doctrine of our high-speed society, DZHUS builds their state-of-theart framework with a practical undertone. With an anatomy stitched together by contemporary threads, their collection constructs pieces with an innovative and structural finish through contoured cuts, architectonic textures, and monochromatic garments to cement the brand’s smart aesthetic with pieces that can be folded into different silhouettes. dzhus.portfoliobox.me

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Words by Honey Bautista and Bianca Serrano

oing against the norm is a challenge that can’t be turned down by the creative trio behind WEBER HODEL FEDER. The Belgium-based brand breathes fresh air into your classic brogue silhouette characterized by unexpected twists like Velcro straps as well as a vibrant array of colors suited for the modern gentleman–or lady. weberhodelfeder.com

THREADS

geometric energy G

oing against the current with a contrary mode of style, NOSOMNIA’s strives for creative craftsmanship that probes luxury fabrics designed to have an unorthodox fit with No Strings Attached, shaping the modern-day man and tracing the juxtaposition of high-end and urban menswear with over-sized coats and blocked sweaters lined with a youthful vibe. nosomnia.dk

happy feet T

ake the vibrant spirit of Italy to the streets in stylish kicks, no less with KOIO’s latest collection. May they be doused in cool neutrals or vibrant hues, each pair mixes comfort and style with rubber soles, leather panels, and crisp stitches matched with industrial eyelets, mesh, and a variety of dyeing techniques. koiocollective.com

femme fatale T

aking back what’s rightfully theirs, designer MELODY EHSANI taps on Reebok Classic for a female-forward collection. With patchwork centered on empowering women, the Power of the People features denim jumpsuits, tees, and dresses with muted tones that highlight your everyday girl boss. melodyehsani.com

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SETTING

PLACES TO GO

SUITE

PRINCE GALLERY TOKYO KIOICHO, JAPAN W

ith a panoramic view of iconic Japanese landmarks such as the Imperial Palace, Mount Fiji, and the Tokyo Tower, the PRINCE GALLERY TOKYO KIOICHO, by award-winning designer and architect David Rockwell, provides you with a one-of-a-kind luxurious experience. The contemporary hotel includes 250 guest rooms and 11 luxurious suites, all of which boast modern facilities embedded onto traditional Japanese design. Its pristine, elegant interior is further accentuated by elaborate designs crafted to produce floating objects as well as eccentric furniture. Adding to the sophisticated atmosphere are paintings by upcoming Japanese artists scattered around the hotels walls to create a gallery-esque feel. Other amenities found in the hotel are indoor pools, fitness gyms, meeting rooms, high-end bars, and restaurants. 1-2 Kioi-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo princehotels.com/en/kiocho

GRUB

NONO’S, UP TOWN CENTER S

tep into the inviting light teal doors of NONO’S and be their guest as they present the best of what comfort food has to offer. Straight from the mind of Chef Baba Ibazeta-Benedicto of Classic Confections comes a return to rustic home-cooked food. Elevating dishes that take you back in time, it isn’t only the menu, but the whole concept– little accents that bring a sense of nostalgia to each customer. With a lot of thought behind each detail, the Palm Springs-inspired mid-century modern style interiors by Space Encounters separates the pastel palettes and vintage touches into three areas: the bakery nook, the lanai, and the dining area–all reminiscent of going to a friend’s house.

PLATE

NO PLACE LIKE HOME Nostalgia is a doubleedged knife–perfect for digging into your favorite childhood dishes at NONO’S.

SPANISH THREE CHEESE OMELETTE Feta, mozzarella, and parmigiano romano omelette, topped with potato chips

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SHRIMP WITH CANDIED WALNUTS Crispy shrimp with caramelized walnuts, served with fried wontons

CHORIZO AND SHRIMP MARINARA Penne with Chorizo de Pamplona and shrimp in marinara sauce

GRILLED PORK CHOPS Grilled boneless pork chop topped with lemon herbed butter

NONO’S HOMESTYLE FRIED CHICKEN Boneless chicken fillet with country style gravy and honey

Words by Jamina Nitura and Janroe Cabiles; GRUB photos by Nadine Layon and Borgy Angeles

G/F UP Town Center, Katipunan Ave., Quezon City facebook.com/nonos.ph

BRICK AND MORTAR

STORES TO SHOP

rains, paris 78 Rue du Temple, Paris, France rains.com Dime to Drop: PHP 1,115.20-PHP 9,722.43 (DKK 149-DKK 1,299) Don’t leave the store without: a RAINS × DOE Shanghai parka

hether washed in a drizzle or storm, we get a whiff of the visual fragrance of RAINS, a concept store sitting at the oldworld charm of Le Marais district. Despite the quaint town painting a scene ripped off a history book, the store embraces modern tendencies with industrial details, Nordic textiles, and perforated, yet functional walls that wittingly incorporate a contrasting line to the Danish brand’s core: waterproof products. With an all-white color scheme, the minimalist space allows their products to captivate. The shop showcases a silhouette of rain gear and accessories such as long jackets and bucket hats as well as collaborations with notable brands like DOE, painter Andrew Salgado, and a project with Italian eyewear brand RETROSUPERFUTURE all featured in the label’s self-published RAINS Journal, making sure the rainy days won’t dampen your style.

NUBIAN

Words by Bianca Serrano

ight on the lane where fashion bounces high and low to the beat of hip-hop, NUBIAN takes a turn for the better with a unique twist on casual yet cutting-edge apparel including seamed pants, asymmetrical long tees, big bomber jackets, and sweat pants from well-loved names like Gosha Rubchinskiy, Off-White, Public School, Raf Simons, Rick Owens, and Yohji Yamamoto, making for an easy outfit that earns you some street cred.

nubian-ave.com

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SCREEN

SCENES TO SEE

REMOTE CONTROL TICKET

RAVEN’S HOME (DISNEY) The spin-off to Disney classic That’s So Raven finds best friends Raven and Chelsea together again but this time as parents, now both divorced mothers raising their children together under one roof when they find out that Raven’s son, Booker, harbors psychic visions of his own.

SNOWFALL (FX) The FX drama by John Singleton takes us back to sunny Los Angeles in the 1980s at the start of snowfall in the form of crack cocaine. The series will dwell on the intertwining lives of its ensemble cast in the midst of the cocaine epidemic in LA, and its eventual impact on the city’s culture.

SPIDER-MAN: HOMECOMING The red and blueclad superhero gets a third reboot, this time with young English actor, Tom Holland donning the famous spandex, and Iron Man, Robert Downey Jr. as his mentor.

DUNKIRK Christopher Nolan directs the historical war film dramatizing the Dunkirk evacuation in France back in World War II starring Fionn Whitehead, Tom Glynn-Carey, and Harry Styles.

AN INCONVENIENT SEQUEL: TRUTH TO POWER Al Gore continues the battle against climate change in this sequel to An Inconvenient Truth. The film will pose Donald Trump as the villain after pulling out from the Paris Agreement.

THE BLACK PRINCE Directed and written by Kavi Raz, this historical drama follows the Last King of Punjab, Maharajah Duleep Singh, his relationship with Queen Victoria, and his conquest to regain his kingdom.

VALERIAN AND THE CITY OF A THOUSAND PLANETS Dane DeHaan stars as the titular Valerian in the sciencefiction film directed by Luc Besson, with Cara Delevingne as Laureline in a race against time to save a universe set in the far future.

ATOMIC BLONDE Top spy, Lorraine Broughton (Charlize Theron) partners up with Berlin chief, David Percival (James McAvoy) to take down an espionage ring responsible for killing an undercover agent.

PLAYBACK THE WAY, WAY BACK Probably my favorite coming-ofage movie. It was awkward and funny, like me.

RUSHMORE I love Wes Anderson films. It has Bill Murray in it. Nothing more to say.

DEAD POETS SOCIETY Arguably one of the saddest endings. I cried hysterically (emphasize hysterically).

BICYCLE THIEVES The kid in this movie was so amazing and he wasn’t even a professional actor at the time. His face, his walk– just incredible.

THE BREAKFAST CLUB We often used their scenes in our acting classes. Each character is so interesting from an emotional perspective.

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Words by Jamina Nitura

SOPHIA LILLIS (Actress)

BEATS PLAYLIST We’re all inspired by so much music. Somewhere on an emotional level, it all intersects. When we can all agree on that, we know we’ve made something true to ourselves.

LO MOON Matt Lowell (Vocals/ Guitar) ilomoonofficial.com

“Sweet Thing” Van Morrison

“Low Down” Boz Scaggs

“Nite Flights” The Walker Brothers

“Bonny” Prefab Sprout

There’s enough shit in the world, so we’re trying to give people a little bit of escape and hope through our music.

OCEAN PARK STANDOFF oceanparkstandoff.com

“Some Nights” Fun

“Sweetness” Jimmy Eat World

“All the Way Up” Fat Joe, Remy Ma

“0 to 100” Drake

A lot of our melodies come from the oldies, like The Beach Boys, Santo & Johnny, Joe Meek, and The Beatles. Timeless and melancholic pieces.

HER’S thatbandofhers.com

“Teardrop” Santo & Johnny

“The World Spins” Julee Cruise

“Heartless” Sean Nicholas Savage

“Maxwell’s Silver Hammer” The Beatles

MUSIC TO HEAR

RELEASES

Sisters Este, Danielle, and Alana, collectively known as HAIM, will be releasing their second studio album Something To Tell You any day now. The Los Angelesbased pop rock band debuted two singles from the forthcoming album last April and May, which they performed live on Saturday Night Live.

After seven years since they released their album Forgiveness Rock Record and announcing their hiatus, Canadian indie rock band BROKEN SOCIAL SCENE is returning to the scene with their fifth studio album Hug of Thunder. The group is currently on tour until fall this year.

Words by Denise Mallabo

MUSIC NEWS

London’s pop duo Oh Wonder is returning to Manila for a one-nightonly gig at the Samsung Hall on July 21, for second time to show us that loving them isn’t hard.

One of Chicago’s biggest festivals will be happening on July 14 to 16. Solange, LCD Soundsystem, and A Tribe Called Quest will headline this annual summer music festival by Pitchfork Media.

Held seaside in Spain, FIB Benicassim Festival goes with the tides of Stomrzy, The Weeknd, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Kasabian, Foals, and Liam Gallagher, and more from July 13 to 16.

Sultry singer LANA DEL REY has been playing coy with the release date of her fifth studio album Lust for Life but an announcement was made via her Twitter that this will be its release month. Lana sang the title track with The Weeknd and already released the official video.

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T EC H PACK

DOWNLOADS

YOUNG AT HEART Toy around with these gadgets catered for the kid in you.

Holocard

• A greeting card that creates holograms out of videos • Made of plastic that will fit most smartphones • A unique way of sending birthday greetings and invites SRP: PHP 372

MEMOJI FROM FACETUNE By Lightricks LTD Take your selfie game to the next level by turning your photo into an emoji with this app. It also has a feature that you can animate your photo based on the emoji that you’ve chosen.

ATARI PONG Multifunctional Coffee Table

• A physical version of PONG • Corning Gorilla glass for clearer visuals • Folding design to conceal the controllers after use • Has built in USB slots and a Bluetooth speaker SRP: PHP PHP 63,900

Sega Toys Homestar Planetarium

• A powerful LED light projector • Projects from the available disc of galaxy and universe theme using a 3-Watt light • Its focus projection is adjustable anywhere from 59 to 90 inches and has a projection diameter of 106 inches SRP: PHP 6,370

CLIPPY By Sourmash Labs Inc. Have you ever wanted to convert a video clip into a GIF? Clippy’s got you covered. Add texts and emojis in them and share it on social media.

PancakeBot • First food printer that prints pancakes of your design • Automatically dispenses pancake batter directly on the griddle • Griddle is nonstick, removable, and easy to clean SRP: PHP 14,811

• iPhone case that glows in the dark for more than 12 hours • Cut to fit the dimension of the iPhone and comes in different colors SRP: PHP 2,230

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OH…SIR! THE HOLLYWOOD ROAST By Gambitious Digital Entertainment Here’s a game where you can battle your opponent via verbal jousting. Burn your rivals with smartass words a la Hollywood style roast.

Words by Denise Mallabo

Glow Gel

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F A CE PA I N T TOM FORD Fiber Brow Gel P2,570.40

LIPSTICK QUEEN Famous Last Words Liquid Lipstick in Au Revoir P1,285.20

RODIN Olio Lusso Lip Pencil In Red Hedy P1,606.50

JUICE BEAUTY PHYTO-PIGMENTS™ Flawless Serum Foundation P2,249.10

SCARLET FLUSH Paint the town red.

KJAER WEIS Grace Eye Shadow in Neutral P2,409.75

DRYBAR Whiskey Fix Styling Paste P1,455.85 ST. TROPEZ 3-in-1 Bronzing Powder P1,499.40

JANE IREDALE PureLash® Mascara P1,178.10t

DOLCE & GABBANA Miss Sicily Colour & Care Lipstick in Caterina P1,927.80

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VAN I T I ES

POST PUNK You better be ready for some radical, magical, liberal art ‘cause the URBAN DECAY × Jean-Michel Basquiat collection is here to open up your eyes in more ways than one. With packaging, hues, and shade names keeping Basquiat’s influence in mind, the set gives you beauty with a twist and an intervention as it features lipsticks and eyeliners as well as eyeshadow and blush palettes in colors inspired by the iconic artist’s graffiti around Manhattan.

EXPERT ADVICE Add drama and volume to your eyes by applying mascara to both sides of your lashes.

Words by Jill de Leon

MASCARAS

Treat yourself like the queen that you are as you glide on CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN “LES YEUX NOIRS” LASH AMPLIFYING LACQUER’s beautiful luminous finish to your lashes with perfect precision.

Knock ‘em dead with a single gaze with BUTTER LONDON “OH MY, HOW HIGH!” LENGTHENING MASCARA’s curved brush which adds depth, length, and dimension to your lashes.

Find your best kept secret in MAC “IN EXTREME DIMENSION” LASH MASCARA, a formula that not only adds impact, but also conditions the strands of your lashes for extra softness and flexibility.

Wake up and smell the roses with ELIZABETH ARDEN “EYES WIDE OPEN” LASTING IMPRESSION MASCARA, infused with vitamin C, avocado, and olive oils that maintain moisture and wear all day.

Do you even lift, girl? SHISEIDO FULL LASH DIMENSION MASCARA will make sure that you do with a super flexible brush that fits the curves of your eye for dramatic curl and dimension. STATUSMAGONLINE.COM - 19

GO S E E

Get ready for a little graphic content with shirts that fit your style to aÂ tee. Photos courtesy of lookbook.nu

@daro_mnswr

@eneanastri

@end

@carlavadan

@richykoll

Artist KANAHO MORISUE adds some girlish charm in her ensemble with bright hues. @kanaho_show

@milexr

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@kriger_dasha

@dvd

dzel_

d_ian

@ivan_chang1007_

Looks like blogger DOMINIC GRIZZELLE is ready to rock this Metallica tee with this streetwear combo. @griztriz

@neonstylefox

@marco__moura

@lisaflnk

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Photographed & Styled by Shaira Luna

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dress by Martel NYC shoes by Alexander Wang

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bodysuit by Uniqlo tights by Martel NYC 24 - STATUSMAGONLINE.COM

pants by Uniqlo shoes by Alexander Wang

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top and pants by Martel NYC shoes by Alexander Wang

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dress by Martel NYC

Model Yasmine of Silent Models Paris Assisted by Lance Luna

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top by Forever 21 choker by Aldo necklace by Forever 21

top by H&M bralette by Forever 21 jumpsuit by Leviâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

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Photographed by James Lopez Styled by Jill de Leon and Flo Trinidad STATUSMAGONLINE.COM - 29

top by Forever 21 skirt by H&M earrings by Miguel Alomajan choker by Aldo

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top by Forever 21 pants by Ecko earrings by Aldo shoes by Doc Martens beret by Fezco STATUSMAGONLINE.COM - 31

top by H&M bralette by Forever 21 jumpsuit by shoes by Aldo

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top by Meanne Santos-Ong skirt by SM Woman shoes and choker by ALDO belt used as choker by Charles & Keith

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top by Meanne Santos-Ong skirt by SM Woman shoes and choker by ALDO belt used as choker by Charles & Keith

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top by Forever 21 jacket by jeans by Blue shoes by Charles & Keith choker by Aldo necklace by Forever 21 rings by Forever 21 & Aldo

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top by Meanne Santos-Ong skirt by SM Woman choker by ALDO belt used as choker by Charles & Keith

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dress by Forever 21 pants by Cherokee belts used as harness by Forever 21 shoes by Aldo

dress by Meanne Santos-Ong bodysuit by Forever 21

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dress by Meanne Santos-Ong bodysuit by Forever 21 necklaces by Zara choker by Call It Spring rings by Forever 21

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top and shorts by Forever 21 bralette by H&M belts used as harness by Charles & Keith

Hair Mong Amado Makeup Apple Fara-on of MAC Model Chelsea Robato of Ideal People Models Assistant Stylists Gian Latorre and Joanne TaĂąedo

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SWAG JULY

20 1 7

WATER PROOF Don’t let the gloomy weather rain on your parade, and make a silver lining out of these layering tricks. Product photography by Daniel Santillan

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eyewear by ALDO [P655] coat by Miss Selfridge [P4,395] pants by Dorothy Perkins [P1,995] shoes by ALDO [P5,395]

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GUYS: BREEZE

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EASY BREEZY

Chillin’ like a villain.

top by Topman [P1,995] jacket by Oxygen [P1,199] pants by H&M P1,995] bag by Pedro [P4,395] shoes by ALDO [P3,795]

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GIRLS: BREEZE

CHILL PILL Back to basics.

eyewear by H&M [TBA] robe by Oxygen [P1,199] top by Miss Selfridge [P2,795] pants by Topshop [P4,495] shoes by ALDO [P2,295] bag by Call It Spring [P1,455]

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GUYS: COZY

sweater by H&M [TBA] pants by Topman [P1995] hat by Oxygen [P299] button-down by Ralph Lauren [TBA] shoes by H&M [TBA] black sweater by Oxygen [P799]

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KNIT PICKING

Woven and tested.

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GIRLS: COZY

WARM BODIES Cozy up to this.

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jacket by H&M [TBA] sweater by Topshop [P2,295] pants by Dorothy Perkins [P1,595] bag by Call It Spring [P2,295] eyewear by H&M [TBA] shoes by Call It Spring [P2,455]

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GUYS: DRIZZLE

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OVER CAST

A sprinkle in time.

pullover by Topman [P2,195] jacket by H&M [TBA] pants by Oxygen [P999] hat by ALDO [P795] shoes by Pedro [P4,195] socks by H&M [P499] STATUSMAGONLINE.COM - 51

GIRLS: DRIZZLE

SILVER LINING Up in the clouds.

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jacket by Topshop [P3,395] sweater by Miss Selfridge [P1595] jumpsuit by Warehouse [1,795] hat by Call It Spring [P795] bag by Charles & Keith [P3,599] eyewear by Call It Spring [P655] shoes by Charles & Keith [P2,399] STATUSMAGONLINE.COM - 53

GUYS: RAIN

NORTHERN DOWNPOUR Ready for impact.

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jacket/top by H&M [TBA] Pants by Topman [P2,795] Hat by ALDO [P895] Shoes by H&M [TBA] Eyewear by ALDO [P895]

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GIRLS: RAIN

coat by Topshop [P3,695] turtleneck by Topshop [P1,195] dress by H&M [TBA] shoes by ALDO [P3,795] bag by Pedro [P2,995] watch by Call It Spring [P1,695] socks by Penshoppe [P199]

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STORM TROOPER

Right as rain.

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M A E S T R O

In a world where you can become an overnight sensation, singer JASMINE THOMPSON aspires to make her mark and stay in the music industry for as long as she can take. By Isa Almazan Interviewed by Denise Mallabo

asmine Thompson has been posting videos on her YouTube channel ever since she was 12 years old. She has a massive following due to her unique blend and arrangements of covers. “I just choose the songs I feel I have a real connection to. If I love the lyrics or if I always hear myself singing it, I’ll cover it because I want to share my version of it. I’ll change the key or make it a bit slower because I like making my covers emotional and quite mellow,” says Jasmine. Being an online superstar doesn’t always guarantee positive responses from viewers but Jasmine is fully aware of this and doesn’t squander any of her time to reply. “People have their own opinions and that’s okay. If they don’t like it, that’s fine. When they’re being unnecessary and rude, it’s just best to ignore them and

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realize that I’m not going to get on everyone’s good side. I always keep in mind that I have my family and friends, and I love music. That’s why I’m doing it—for people who love what I do.” Now that she’s 16 years old, the young London native is now on her second EP and ready to go on tour and headline her own shows. Success may have followed her even at her young age, but her story is one of resilience and hope—sentiments that are incredibly evident in her new outing Wonderland. You’re very open about the problems your family had to overcome. How did music help you deal with all of these? Me and my brother grew up listening to different sort of albums, and I got a lot of music from my brother.

“MUSIC HELPS ME MEDITATE, IN A WAY; IT’S VERY THERAPEUTIC. IT’S ALSO MY WAY OF RELEASING MY EMOTIONS AND ACCEPTING THEM.”

MAESTRO

Whatever he listened to, I listened to. Music helps me meditate, in a way; it’s very therapeutic. It’s also my way of releasing my emotions and accepting them. Your latest single “Old Friends” is co-written by Meghan Trainor. How was it like working with her? Honestly, I feel so grateful that someone like Meghan, who is incredible at singing and writing, would work with me. The fact that she wrote for my project blew my mind because she spent so much time thinking about it. It really touches me that she really got it right and understood me. It’s a great song and I’m super happy with it. What is your new EP about and how does it differ from your 2015 EP Adore? It’s all about growing up. It’s all about how I’ve been feeling in the past years, because a lot has been happening—changes, touring, and new experiences. Sixteen is an interesting year for everyone. That’s why I wrote everything that’s been happening because I had these new emotions that I just put into songs.

What should your audience expect from Wonderland? Hopefully, they can just connect to it. A lot of the topics from Wonderland are quite universal. Everyone is always confused; no one knows what’s going to happen in the future. I just hope that my followers can relate to it and feel like they’re not alone in feeling lost sometimes. What’s your advice to aspiring musicians like you? It’s really important to know why you’re doing it and what you want to say as an artist. I realized that I love music so much and it’s the one thing I want do for the rest of my life, so it’s important to stay dedicated to it. Just stay truthful to yourself, and truthful to your followers.

jasminethompson.com @tantrumjas

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MAESTRO

TROPICAL

STORM

Singing with a timbre of truth, artist and activist SYNEAD breaks some revolutionary waves over the urgent percussion of change. By Bianca Serrano Photographed by Faysal Matin

ost in the patterns of a progressive chasse, art and activism glide together in a triple-step dance like no other for Synead Nichols. “Art and activism go hand in hand in a way that as an artist, I’m already acting against society for choosing to express my personal feelings in a very public manner, which is the same with being an activist, only it’s more sociopolitical. I want to make sure I focus more on finding effective ways to express myself and highlight the things going on in my world and

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the world around me,” the musician explains. Armed with an accented candor in every diction, her voice rang bold and clear as one of the first organizers of the Millions March in New York City back in 2014, where she experienced a multiracial response against the flaws of white supremacy. “It was a very intense period of my life. We achieved this amazing feat, but it was very taxing. It was a great learning experience not only about the power we have as humans, but as a community. I carry that with me everywhere I go. Since I know where I stand as a person, I feel more connected to everything I do.” And it resonated through the wavelengths of a diasporic tune, with raggedy lines exploring the distorted facets of a systemic racism in a pressing matter of synths. Yet

despite the seriousness of it all, her trip-hop tracks never fail to make us swing to the grooving beat of her revolution. “I really focus on being positive and not brooding in the sadness. My emotions around this, however, are in a constant flux. I have other music that’s more difficult because I’m discussing these issues that deeply affect me: being black, being a woman, being in the world during these very challenging times.” For a long while, Synead has been building the framework of her songs after the needs of other people, but taking a step back from all this pressure, Synead decides to go back to her roots where constant sunshine is simply a state of mind she needs to reimagine. “I had to take a step back to focus on myself because I wasn’t looking after myself properly. I took some time to refocus on what I really wanted.” Now riding onto a fated and much needed detour, Synead collaborates with Matt FX and Cabo Blanco on a track that is going to be one of her biggest wave yet. “Matt and I always said we would work together and we really started on this after high school. I met Henry

MAESTRO at an AfroPunk party at Free Candy in 2013 and we meshed right away. Matt hit me up one day and said ‘You. Me. Henry. Tomorrow.’ I already knew it was going to be magical.” Her latest work, “Tropicao” brings us to her homeland where she sips on a summerinspired cocktail to wash down her metropolis blues, reigniting her goal of self-love. “We started working on this track right at the peak of everything circulating around me as an activist. I was getting a lot of attention for the success of MMNYC and dealing with a lot of those heavy emotions I spoke about earlier. I needed a way to escape it and this all just came out of that desire. It’s very transcending.” With her latest hit being a tropical ode to her childhood, she lays out the blueprint of her musical path and all the nooks, crannies, and influences that solidified her identity. “My parents, both from Trinidad and Tobago, influenced a lot of my musical choices from an early age. My mom is actually the one who got me into exploring songwriting. They had me listening to Mariah Carey, Bunji Garlin, Allison Hinds, Shanice, Prince, Lisa Lisa and the Cult Jam, Patra, Slick Rick, Journey, Bob Marley, Sinead O’ Connor, Machel Montano, Whitney Houston, Janet Jackson, Pat Benatar, Sister Sledge, and Shiela E, just to name a few. All these genres of music just bring out different sides of me

“I have other music that’s more difficult because I’m discussing these issues that deeply affect me: being black, being a woman, being in the world during these very challenging times.” that I like to explore.” With her musical backbone ensured to stand tall and proud, Synead continues to record the synthesized turmoil in our society, bridging the gap with a soulful voice. “Whether it’s personal or political, questioning and challenging the normality of society are more important than ever. I’ve been given this platform and I don’t want to squander it. I’ll use it to the best of my abilities.” Marching onto a new alley with her upcoming single “Lost in The Wild,” we await more of everything that makes up Synead—unashamed and unafraid. “I don’t really want to reveal too much but it’s definitely a song about letting go and declaring to not only myself, but to all those out there who have tried to hold me down: you can’t.”

soundcloud.com/synead @TheSynead

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MAESTRO

GOI N G

INCOGNITO Singer-songwriter MARK JOHNS’ moniker is so common that her discovery can be attributed to a mix of luck and determination. Now that she’s making a mark of her own, she’s giving back by helping aspiring musicians in any possible way she can. By Denise Mallabo

aomie Abergel a.k.a. Mark Johns will be the first to admit that how she got to where she’s at is because of luck, although she’d be quick to remind you that it’s not all there is to it. “It’s what you make of the opportunity given to you. Everybody gets lucky at one point; you just need to be smart enough to recognize that you got lucky.” And that’s exactly what the 23-year old Canadian did. Mark lefther hometown in Singapore for Los Angeles to pursue her recording career with the help of her mentor, record producer, and DJ Sonny “Skrillex” Moore who discovered her online. He retweeted one of her songs, sent her a direct message asking for more

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tunes, and the rest was history. When asked about their first meeting, she said that it was really cool and that he had a good energy about him. “Sonny was open to the ideas that I had at that time, and was just very reassuring. He has reached the level of mainstream success, but he doesn’t only pay attention to what he’s doing; he likes discovering the next generation of artists and sees how he can help build them,” she continues. Currently the first solo singer in Skrillex’s record label OWSLA, Mark felt the pressure of that status at first, but eventually eased in to it. She became very appreciative of everyone in the label for being handson in producing the music that she wanted to create as well as marketing her and her songs. “I don’t produce anything. I don’t play any instruments, and I don’t know how to make music, but I’m in a label that has some of the best producers in the game right now. That’s very helpful to me because that means that I can work with different people and that really helped me figure out what I wanted my sound to be,” she shares. Viewing her music as her diary entries that she sings with RnB, soul, and urban influences, with the release of her EP Molino late last year just excites her to make more tunes, start working on another project, and try to not overthink a lot of things.

MAESTRO Can you tell us the meaning behind your stage name? When I started out, I was shy about the fact that I was making music and I didn’t really want anybody that I knew in real life to know that I was putting it on the internet. Mark Johns is the name of an illustrator that I’ve really liked since I was young; I had one of his drawings as my phone’s screensaver when I was thinking of a name. What was it like to transition from living in Singapore to LA? Have you gotten used to the changes in your life? No. I’m a very trusting person because of living in Singapore. I grew up in a place where you don’t necessarily have to be afraid of strangers and walking on your own at night. That’s just the kind of environment there is, and it’s wonderful. It’s different here. I think I’ve just learned to be a little bit more defensive and to keep my eyes out for anything that looks a little bit suspicious. What do you think Skrillex saw in you to make him decide to sign you to OWSLA? The music industry can make you jaded very quickly. When that happens to somebody, it can take away the magic that went into the stuff they would create when they were starting. I love reaching out to new artists; when I find someone that’s new and I feel like I have the ability to help them in whatever way, I do it. I think that’s what Sonny saw in me. He saw someone who doesn’t know what she’s doing but wants to be better, and it just really came from a very genuine and kind place. What’s the best advice that Skrillex has ever given you? Don’t think too much about stuff. I’m an overthinker, but he taught me how to recognize the initial spark of something and run with it. What was changed since you released your EP and for your track Molino got over four million plays on Spotify? It’s just crazy. Before I released my EP, my music was generally a bit more happy and positive, but as any artist, you’ll always have this sad stuff that comes out. I just started to be upset about random things and I got to a point in my life that I really needed to address all these things that are making me upset. Letting myself make that EP made me a bit more open and easy-going with the music that I’m making now. I think I’ve said what I had to say when it comes to my negative emotions that I felt in general. Now I’m looking towards the future with a more positive and upbeat approach to how I make everything. It’s been really dope and I’m excited to put new music out.

soundcloud.com/itsmarkjohns @itsmarkjohns

“The music industry can make you jaded very quickly. When that happens to somebody, it can take away the magic that went in to the stuff that they would create when they were starting.”

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MAESTRO

EFFECTS In a generation of musicians powered by auto-tune and resounding beats, WELLES is sticking to its no-nonsense and gritty sound, making them stand out from the rest. By Denise Mallabo

t’s almost rare to be able to listen to a band that doesn’t adhere to the new norm–a sound optimized by too much electronics and tweaks. Enter Welles, a fourpiece band and brainchild of Arkansas native Jehsea Wells. Having recently performed at Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, the 22-year old musician talks of the experience. “It’s like summer camp with drugs; it’s very positive. We’ve never had an audience that excited. That was something new for me, to perform in front of a crowd that size and in that kind of mood.” To him, the best part of playing for an audience is just looking at everyone in the crowd and picturing an individual in his mildly mundane life; the thought pacifies him. Jehsea spent most of his time outside and in the woods as a kid growing up in Arkansas. During

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MAESTRO his teenage years, his fascination for music began, which led him to work on his own songs. “I would wait for the next break in school so I could borrow the jazz band’s kit from the music director and take it home to record,” he says. During his formative years, he would listen to The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Simon & Garfunkel, and Bob Dylan. With a coarse and emotive voice reminiscent of both Blind Melon’s Shannon Hoon and Nirvana’s Kurt Cobain, Welles has a sound that is raw, psychedelic, and comprised of lyrics go beyond feelings of everything that transpires within Jehsea’s daily life. He came up with Welles’ sound through years of writing, recording, and listening to all the music that he has found becoming. “Each tune is just like a journal entry,” he explains. “Each time I play, it takes me back to that memory. Someday, I won’t remember how it feels like.” He writes his lyrics almost immediately as soon as an idea enters his mind. “The inspiration or just the glimmer and joy of a line has such a short shelf life. If left in my head, it’ll get overthought and tossed by the wayside. Just think of it like this, you’re panning for gold and if a fleck winks at you from the pan, you don’t toss it back into the chaff and hope to find it again soon.”

Now based in Nashville, Jehsea admits that the move to the city was to jumpstart his music career and put the band on a bigger stage, which is slowly but steadily coming into fruition. Welles released their first EP Codeine under C3 Records last April. The five-song EP was written over the course of six months and was recorded within a week. “I had made about 60 tunes over that time and just picked a few to make an EP with. I was just chillin’ at Space Mountain, playing in bands and teaching music back then,” says Jehsea. Even though he’s not much of a fan of being in front of a crowd, the thought of touring Welles’ music excites. “I just want our audience to want to make their own music by listening to us.”

wellesmusic.com @wellesmusic

“Each tune is just like a journal entry, each time I play, it takes me back to that memory.”

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M A S T E R M I N D

Breathing life into caricatures of lives before him, LUCAS JADE ZUMANN uses the lights and cameras to bring action to both his craft and advocacies. By Janroe Cabiles Interview by Jam Nitura Photographed by Sam Zachrich

he coming-of-age story sometimes shares the same skeleton as a hero’s journey, but some leave it to simple storytelling as the character paints the spectrum of adolescence in technicolor. Chicago native Lucas Jade Zumann isn’t one to shy away from the beloved genre; he embodies the sweet spot of growing up with every fiber of his being as a fresh-faced canvas–only 16, ready to serve the story. His senses for acting elevated as a cameo in diverse Netflix original series Sense8, paving the way to a bigger role in Sinister 2 as the leader of the creepy children club. But it wasn’t until his role in A24’s 20th Century Women–a comedy-drama based in part on director Mike Mills’ childhood–that Lucas found his well-rounded voice playing Jamie, a teenager in ‘70s California. “I think I did a lot more studying of Mike than I probably needed,” he recalls of his preparation for the film. “Every conversation I had with him, I was secretly taking mental notes of his overall demeanor, but I came to realize that Jamie was really a separate character, and only inspired by Mike’s life.” The learning curve didn’t stop at the screenplay or the film as a whole, which was nominated at the Golden Globe Awards and the Oscars, but also kept its trajectory with the amazing performances by Annette Bening, Greta Gerwig, and Elle Fanning–much like a parallel of the film’s storyline. “Simply being onset with Annette and Greta was a phenomenal learning experience in itself. By watching them on the monitor, I learned so much. The subtlety of their acting was really inspiring. Everybody working on that project wasn’t just there because it was their job; people were there because they had some sort of emotional connection to the project.” Moving on to another project that concerns strong female representation, he plays Gilbert Blythe in Netflix’s adaptation of the beloved book Anne of Green Gables, entitled Anne with an E. Working on the series that has more female characters and directors than male with Miranda de Pencier as executive producer,

MASTERMIND Lucas stands on his own. “When playing real people, I do my best to study them as deeply as possible so that the audience has a grasp on my perspective of the person, but books are different in the sense that the audience gets a more in-depth interpretation of the character’s emotions and thoughts.” With a knack for acting and a growing interest in exploring the different realms of film, Lucas sums up his process of portraying real stories. “I would never do anything to deny myself the space and creative flexibility that comes along with playing a character.” What kinds of scripts are you usually immediately compelled to audition for? I feel like I’m really drawn to slow, characterdriven dramas. Often I find myself compelled to lowbudget projects, particularly ones with great writers and directors. We heard you’re also interested in directing and have made few short projects of your own. Do you have a director that you look up to or would want to work with? I think it’s actually kind of funny because all the directors and cinematographers that I look up to have completely different, even contrary styles to my own. That being said, I really enjoy the work of Wes Anderson, Alejandro González Iñárritu, and Emmanuel Lubezki. Each have very different creative styles and ways of expressing emotion. Wes Anderson has a way of using dialogue to paint a picture for the audience, while the work of Lubezki and Iñárritu really rely on cinematic motifs to convey the experience. What advice can you give to young aspiring actors who want to break into the industry? Do anything you can to get in front of casting directors. If you really do have a drive to get into the acting business, then displaying your work anywhere you can is really the best place to start. Whether that be film school, extra work, neighborhood plays, or even your own YouTube videos. Just remember, whatever you put out there will represent you. In an interview with LA Times you mentioned that sustainability is important to you, why is that? Can you tell us about your environmental advocacy? In the US, the average person produces about 135 lbs of trash. I feel this is completely unnecessary and, needless to say, a huge environmental impact. Simply one person reducing waste production in their lives can make a huge impact in the long run. I really want to help people understand that there are simple things they can do to reduce waste in their everyday lives. Lauren Singer’s a great source for the waste-free movement, we’ve been talking about creating a campaign to educate teens on waste-free living. Any new projects we can watch out for? Nothing I can talk about yet, but I’ve got a couple things in the works!

@lucasjzumann

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MASTERMIND

sonic muse Building a dreamscape through flashing lights, the digital world brought DELILAH BELLE HAMLIN to the runway while she croons to the sound of her own tune. By Janroe Cabiles Interview by Jam Nitura Photographed by Yu Tsai

ehind its glamour, the modeling industry may seem like a bunch of flashing lights, hectic schedules, and perpetual insecurity, but beyond that and in its core is seizing the moment. Just ask Delilah Belle Hamlin, who never saw modeling on the horizon until her snapshots on Instagram opened a few doors into it. But early on, modeling already meant something more to her. “When I was younger, I loved watching America’s Next Top Model because I always thought Tyra Banks was so inspiring,” she recalls. “I had photos of her up in my room, and whenever I was feeling selfconscious, I would look at them and feel better.” At age 17, the chance came in the form of Elite NYC asking to represent her, landing her a spot in Tommy Hilfiger F/W 2016 at New York Fashion Week, and going on to being in Baja East F/W 2017 presentation, W Magazine, and Teen Vogue. Now signed with IMG Models, she’s recently walked for Dolce & Gabbana F/W 2017 at Milan Fashion Week and shot for the cover of Vogue Japan with an onslaught of other models.

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MASTERMIND Could you describe your creative process when either at a shoot or show? I just try to have fun. The first couple of shows I did were so nerveracking but after the Dolce and Gabbana show, I realized what an amazing experience I was being given and decided to just have fun and enjoy the moment! I think relatively the same thing when it comes to photo shoots. I always just try to go all out and do my best so that when it’s over, I don’t regret not giving it my all. Modeling is fun but it’s also a job for me, so I am in the mindset of being professional but also trying to be myself.

Daughter of actor Harry Hamlin and The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’ Lisa Rinna, Delilah never saw the shadow that they cast as a disadvantage; in contrary, it became one of her anchors going into this chapter of her life. “My parents both have so much insight and advice about the world I’m entering. The best advice I’ve gotten from my mom was saying, ‘Stay true to yourself.’ It’s stuck with me because in a fastpaced world like modeling, comparing yourself to others isn’t unusual, and it helps to refer back to what my mom said when this happens.” Grounded by the people around her and going into this step with an understanding of it, nothing much has changed, except for her exposure to the colorful world of fashion. “One of the best things that comes with modeling is the fashion world. My style has changed drastically over the past few years; I’ve found a team of stylists that I love because it’s so much fun playing dress up and putting cool outfits together. My style is more grungy than pretty, but it depends on the occasion. I just like to have fun without worrying what other people may think.” Even at the cusps of her modeling career, Delilah still stays true to her first love. “I’ve always loved to sing. I’ve studied singing with four different coaches, was part of an acapella group in high school, and record myself in the shower or my room alone. It’s definitely something I want to pursue.” With her upcoming move to New York and several projects coming her way, the model is ready for a balancing act with school while getting her name on the radar. “Although it will definitely be difficult to balance getting a college degree while traveling the world for modeling, I like a challenge. Both things are important to me, so I’m going to try my hardest to make it work.”

You’ve shared before that your parents wanted to keep your childhood as normal as possible out of the public eye, which gives you a unique perspective of both sides of the industry. What would you say is the biggest misconception that people have regarding modeling? Well, I don’t think modeling is or should only be about “being skinny.” Models are role models, which means that they should set good and healthy goals for young women. In my opinion, good models are the ones that use their platform and following to spread social justice. You’ve also voiced out your interest in pursuing a music career. Who are your musical influences? The Beatles are amazing, but I also love Adele, Rihanna, Sam Smith, John legend, Pink Floyd, Harry Styles, Khalid, and so many more. What genre of music could we expect from you? And do you have any musicians or singers you’d want to collaborate with? I’m really into R&B right now. I’d love to collaborate with SZA, Khalid, Majid Jordan, and separate from that genre I really think Harry Styles new album is amazing and inspirational, so I’d love to one day collaborate with him.

@DelilahBellee

“GOOD MODELS ARE THE ONES THAT USE THEIR PLATFORM AND FOLLOWING TO SPREAD SOCIAL JUSTICE.”

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MASTERMIND

DOG DAYS

ARE OVER

Switching from the backseat to riding shotgun, rising star TOM TAYLOR takes a right turn to his biggest role to date in the upcoming Stephen King adaptation, The Dark Tower. By Bianca Serrano Photographed by Jack Alexander

rom small fry to being the biggest catch in the worldwide search for “The Gunslinger’s” protégé Jake Chambers, Tom Taylor naturally falls into the pivotal role of Nikolaj Arcel’s adaptation of Stephen King’s legacy, The Dark Tower alongside leading co-stars Idris Elba and Matthew McConaughy. Jumping off the pages to center stage, the journey to being cast seemed like a hazy reflection of what’s to come for his character, with Tom walking to fame off the beaten path. “I did a lot of auditions, about eight altogether, including two trips to LA for screen

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tests.” Finally reaching the tail end of his search, Tom finds himself drifting to a new journey as he embarks on an epic tale with Roland Deschain (Idris Elba), also known as The Gunslinger, in a quest to find the Dark Tower. “An insight into an otherwise unexplored world,” the actor comments. Stephen King’s multifaceted universe is packed with genredefying elements set in a refreshing perspective balanced between apocalyptic and post-apocalyptic imagery, where remnants of magic remain amidst the upcoming destruction of advanced technology. Heavily packed with extraordinary lore and iconic lines, the pressure to bring King’s complex world to life is unimaginable. “Nik is an amazing director. Idris was very inspiring and encouraging during our time together, and we got on really well too. It was such an honor to represent a character imagined by Stephen King.” With a series that Stephen King himself claimed to be his magnum opus, Tom slipped on the characters’ worn-out shoes with

MASTERMIND

surprising ease. “I had discussions with Nik about Jake’s character, and his guidance helped me imagine and create my own depiction of Jake.” Resolute but fresh to the cinematic scene, the UK actor proves to know the block well enough to kick the title of the new kid on the curb, being a former theater student with roles in Broken Hearts (2015), Legend (2015), The Last Kingdom (2015), and a recurring role in a BBC mini-series as Tom Foster in the award-winning psychological drama, Doctor Foster. “My mum and dad sent us all to theater school on the weekends to get us out of the house, as there were five kids at home. I lost interest in it when I was about 12 because I thought it was too girly and uncool, so I left. A few weeks later, one of the teachers called me back for auditions that the theater school was holding for an agent and it all kicked off from there.” Despite acting as the spiritual son of Roland and the bridge between two worlds in The Dark World, Tom remains a normal kid at heart back at home with his interests reaching beyond the borders of a theatrical podium. “I’m a keen skateboarder, and

“It was such an honor to represent a character imagined by Stephen King.”

I play drums and muck about making music. My brother plays guitar so we often jam together, and my sister sometimes sings.” Being under the spotlight at the tender age of 15 didn’t do anything to blind him, and he continues to see the world clear of any unscripted drama. “I don’t talk about my acting with my friends. I’m just one of the lads, so it hasn’t really affected me. Time out from school was the most difficult, trying to juggle tutoring, working, and keeping up with the curriculum. When I’m home, I’m just Tom. I have a big family and don’t get any special treatment from my brothers and sisters or my parents.” When asked what’s next for our rising star, he simply says, “I think I’d be doing just as I am now, finishing school, starting college, and carrying on with acting.”

@TomTaylor1607

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Feisty on the dance floor and on set, Fox hit series Gotham’s CAMREN BICONDOVA is light on her feet as she rises to the top with killer moves and a deadly whip to pave her way to success. By Jam Nitura Photographed by Magdalena Niziol Styled by Jamie Huggins and Julianna Alabado Makeup Maria Ortega using Kevyn Aucoin Hair Matthew Green using R&Co Photographer’s Assistant Marcus Cardona

he new epoch of women taking over as leaders and fighters is just beginning–with female Jedi, Ghostbusters, and superheroes–and Camren Bicondova is definitely a soldier of the charge. The 18-year-old may call Wonder Woman “the epitome of badassery,” but it looks like she’s doing some saving of her own–whether it’s other people on the street, or just herself, as young Catwoman a.k.a. Selina Kyle in Fox hit series Gotham. The young enigma, fluidly pickpocketing strangers and leaping up fire escapes, opens the show’s pilot set in a preBatman city. It kicks off right after the death of Thomas and Martha Wayne, leaving a devastated young Bruce at its wake. Selina Kyle, hidden deep in the shadows, is there as the tragedy unfolds, disappearing right after, slick as a cat in the dead of night, her disposition already showing signs of the future hero-villain to be. However, unlike the slew of famous actresses who’ve portrayed Catwoman, Camren’s Selina is someone we haven’t

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met before. “Nobody has seen Selina the way she is in Gotham. The street kid who depends on herself, knows how to survive on her own–they’ve only seen the regal Catwoman of the 1966 show, or the geeky assistant-turnedsexy acrobatic,” she states. Now three seasons later and a fourth on the way, she continues to tell Selina’s origin story with style and grace, edging close to finally transforming into the fierce Cat that we all love to hate, bullwhips and retractable claws hopefully included in the near future. Before all of that, the dancing military brat describes herself as being thrown into the acting world. “I was in LA for dance, and after some time wanted to try something new,” leading her to one of the most iconic characters ever known; so naturally landing the infamous Catwoman was no easy feat for Camren. Not exactly familiar with the Batman franchise before she got the part, she quickly got to reading all about the masked femme fatale, eager to bring justice

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to Catwoman and her character’s massive fanbase. When asked if she felt any pressure induced by the expectations of a large, passionate following, Camren admits, “When we first started filming, yes because I realized how many fans there really were, and I wasn’t quite prepared for that. But I’ve come to learn that the only real pressure comes from myself because I’m a hardcore perfectionist, so I have to be reminded not to be as hard on myself.” Three years into playing Selina Kyle, Camren’s obviously already got it covered. Well aware of her character’s individuality by now, she personally doesn’t believe in the antihero trope often labeled onto Catwoman. “Antihero is a term people use for characters who do bad in order to do good, but to me, that’s not Selina at all.” she says. “Selina is a survivor. Period. She’s not in the white area, she’s not in the black area, she’s far deep in the grey area. I feel like society puts labels on people instead of just letting them be, and I feel like Selina

is part of that. She’s not a villain or an ‘antihero.’ She’s just Selina.” She’s just Selina indeed, but with a touch of her impeccable dance skills. As similar to Selina Kyle, Camren is also introverted and fiercely loyal to the ones she loves, but the cat in the woman can only be owed to Camren’s dance background. “I started dancing when I was six, but I didn’t realize that that’s what I wanted to do as a job until I was nine.” Truly a prodigy in her own right, she, along with her all-girl dance group 8 Flavahz, won first runner-up on the seventh season of America’s Best Dance Crew, and she certainly isn’t afraid to bring all that fire and flare onscreen. “Dance at its core is pure feeling and genuine emotion, and that’s also what acting is. With acting, the script provides the words of the character that the actor portrays. For dancers, the script is the song, and the

“Dance at its core is pure feeling and genuine emotion, and that’s also what acting is.”

character is the person singing that song, and it’s the dancer’s job to portray who the artist is and what he or she is saying through movement,” she says, breaking it down for us. “Both require deep self-understanding and emotion, and dance was my first choice of communication. So dancing definitely helped me transition into acting, and still helps me now.” In the midst of a blossoming dance career and a hit show, Camren’s unsure of what’s next for her, but she does have clear goals in mind. With all that grace and talent wrapped up in such a passionate figure, not to mention her apparent love for penning poems and screenplays, the world is her playground and we can’t wait ‘til her next adventure.

@camrenbivondoca

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Serving modern pop with a dark twist along with her deep velvety voice, edgy fashion sense, and carefree personality, DUA LIPA gives a better view on her different sides with poignant lyrics, soulful vocals, and unapologetic anthems in her self-titled album.

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by Jill de Leon Photographed by Miguel Alomajan

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With a sultry voice, dark hair, and a radiant smile, Dua Lipa is the perfect contrast to the standard pop princess. Taking everything you know and love about pop and adding her own dark twist to it, the 21-year old is working her way up the charts, and she’s just getting warmed up. “I think there’s some pressure that comes with [being an upcoming artist], but the pressure makes me work really hard,” she shares. Seeing every challenge as an opportunity to shine even brighter, she isn’t fazed by the limelight, as she still sees the positive side of having all eyes and ears on her. “It’s really nice to have this kind of recognition, because it means people are listening.” While she grew up in a household that played Stereophonics, Oasis, Radiohead, and Sting, Dua’s early exposure to a diverse selection of artists paved her path to a music career with her father, who was also a musician, being one of the first people to fuel the fire for her passion. With talent already running through her veins, it was only a matter of time until she found her own range of artists to look up to, turning to iconic musicians Pink, Nelly Furtado, Destiny’s Child, Christina Aguilera, and Missy Elliott for inspiration. Her family’s move to Kosovo when she was 11 only built her repertoire of influences even further, as she discovered the community’s love for hip-hop. “I was so surrounded by music, and it was always really present in my life. It’s definitely when the whole idea of doing this as a career started.” Marching to the beat of her own drum is something Dua has been used to since her early years. At age 15, with her parents’ full support, she made the daunting decision to move back to London by herself. “I was a bit nervous, but I had a really good time, and it was really exciting to get to live on my own. I felt really grown up at the time and it definitely helped me mature faster,” she shares. Starting out by posting covers on YouTube, her

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“I think there’s some pressure that comes with [being an upcoming artist], but the pressure makes me work really hard.”

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“I’m really looking forward to spending time learning, ‘cause I learn a lot when I watch other people on stage, so it’ll be really nice to learn from one of the best.”

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videos have now garnered over 100 million views, which comes to no surprise, given her deep velvety vocals, laidback personality, and edgy style. With three tracks in the UK single charts’ top 15 preceding her debut album, she’s beginning to dominate stages in different corners of the world by doing an album tour in October as well as joining Bruno Mars on the 24k Magic World Tour next year. “I find inspiration from different people and different places. Things that I write about are very autobiographical. A lot of it comes from personal experience, and that’s what inspires me,” shares the singer-songwriter. With pop tracks that hint at other different genres, her self-titled debut gives the listener every side there is to her–from poignant lyrics in “Be The One” and “Genesis,” soulful vocals in “Thinking ‘Bout You,” “Room for 2,” and “No Goodbyes,” to unapologetic girl anthems in “IDGAF,” “Blow Your Mind (Mwah),” and “Hotter Than Hell.” Releasing an album so close to your heart isn’t an easy feat, but she took the challenge in stride by becoming involved in the record’s progress as well as paying attention to the little details. “I think you only have one chance at a debut album, and I want it to be the best it can be, so I think for now, I’m a little bit of a perfectionist.”

With a certain bad girl charm and carefree persona mixed in with her refreshing take on modern pop and visually appealing music videos, it’s not that hard to fall in love with the overall package. Now making her way even further up the ranks by working with well-known artists like Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, singer-songwriter Miguel, actor Ansel Elgort, and DJ Martin Garrix, Dua makes it a point to keep her feet firmly on the ground. Despite receiving a handful of positive reviews from publications like V Magazine, Entertainment Weekly, Vulture, Complex, Time, Fader, and Wonderland, gracing the pages of Rolling Stone, SPIN, Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, British GQ, NME, Elle UK, and Nylon and landing the cover of British Vogue, she doesn’t let the recognition get to her head. Instead, she focuses on the learning experience gained by working with the best of the best as well as reaching out to her fans around the globe. “I just want to keep doing what I’m doing, hopefully see a growth [in myself] and be able to do bigger concert venues, see more places that I haven’t seen before, and have the opportunity to travel the world because of my music. That’s my ultimate goal.”

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“Every time that you feel like things aren’t going your way, just keep going.” How are you adapting to the Philippine weather? I love it. It’s really nice; it’s really different from London so I really enjoy it. In past interviews, you’ve mentioned your love for artists like Pink, Nelly Furtado, Kendrick, and Chance the Rapper. Do you have any other musical influences that people might not expect from you? I don’t know about unexpected, but I really like this new artist called Khalid. I like Steve Lacey and Childish Gambino as well. Which artist would you love to collaborate with, and what type of song would you record with them? I don’t know what it would sound like yet. It really kind of depends on the day and who I’m working with, but I’d love to write a song with Sia or Pink. I’d also love to collaborate with The Weeknd and Frank Ocean. You’ve been traveling a lot these days. What has been your favorite city to visit so far? Everywhere has been lovely. I mean, they’re all so different, but they’re all really quite culturally awakening and it’s exciting to get to come and experience places like this. I’ve really loved Manila, I truly have. I also loved Singapore, I think it’s absolutely beautiful. I really liked Beijing as well and I’ve yet to go to Jakarta, but all of them have left such a great impression on me and I’d definitely love to come back.

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You have an upcoming tour with Bruno Mars. What are you most excited about and how are you preparing for it? I’m really excited about the tour. I’ll be performing all the songs on the album. It’ll be a new production and a brand new show. The venues are getting much bigger, so that’s really exciting for me. Other than that, I’m excited for the Bruno Mars tour because having the opportunity to go on tour with such a huge artist, doing such huge venues, and sharing the stage with someone that I’m really inspired by makes me feel very lucky. I’m really looking forward to spending time learning, ‘cause I learn a lot when I watch other people on stage, so it’ll be really nice to learn from one of the best. If you could give your younger self some advice, what would it be? I’d tell myself that everytime that feel like things aren’t going your way, just keep going. Which was I guess what I eventually did, but I feel like I needed someone to tell me. Yeah, just keep going.

dualipa.com @DUALIPA Photographer’s Assistant James Lopez Shot on location at Marco Polo Hotel Ortigas Styled by Lorenzo Posocco Makeup Francesca Brazzo Hair Cats Del Rosario

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From the stage and TV screen to your stereo, actor CALEB MCLAUGHLIN might dabble in matters of nostalgia at the age of 15, but he promises there are stranger things out there. By Janroe Cabiles Photographed by Shanna Fisher

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Fooling around with the idea of different suits, Caleb McLaughlin plays his cards and makes every stage his own playground. Growing up with influences stemming from his father, a trained classical opera singer, and his mother who took up drama, he learned the art of performance at home, but ultimately got his acting chops with a little push. “My little sister encouraged me to join the community theater in our town, and I really enjoyed it,” he recalls. Attending Happy Feet Dance School in Carmel and then The Harlem School of the Arts, the New York native just couldn’t wait to be king–making his dreams come true so soon as Young Simba in The Lion King on Broadway. But it wasn’t until he landed a role in the weird world of the Duffer Brothers that he made a play at a worldwide audience. It’s in the town of Hawkins, Indiana in the 1980s where Netflix’s sci-fi horror drama Stranger Things begins. Riding bikes all around town, goofing around, playing Dungeons and Dragons in the basement before dinner, the creators of the show got nostalgia down to a science– before adding a twist of thrill and horror to the mix. Caleb sinks his teeth into the rich material as Lucas Sinclair, who joins his group of friends and a mysterious psychokinetic girl in searching through the woods for their missing friend. With the series receiving critical acclaim and bagging awards from the MTV Movie & TV Awards, SAG Awards, and many more, both critics and fans all around praised

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“There are so many stories to tell–I just want to be part of the storytelling and touch people’s lives while telling the story.”

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shirt by adidas

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“Always be your biggest

fan! Stay focused on what you want, and don’t let anybody say you can’t do it.” the show’s ode to the classics of the ‘80s–E.T., The Goonies, and Stand By Me as a few that inspired the Duffer Brothers, but even going further into every viewers personal timetable, sparking memories of different video games, sci-fi theories, and horror flicks. “[While filming] I knew it was really special, but I didn’t expect the huge response from all over the world,” Caleb says of the show’s success. But before all of this, it all started with a signed, sealed, delivered self-taped audition. “After that, we did a bunch of stuff on Skype, then went out to LA and met Finn [Wolfhard] to see how our chemistry would play out.” Getting into character as the skeptic of the group, the actor first thought he was a lot like Lucas, but upon seeing himself onscreen, he began to realize their differences; and having recently wrapped up the second season, he’s set on a new vision for his character. “Lucas and I both believe in true friendship. We will do anything for a friend,” he shares. “Although, Lucas is a little more of a skeptic than I am. Because of his experiences in Season 1, he sees the world differently, so Season 2 is a different level for Lucas.” Cruising through with a different tune, Caleb’s next project was biopic series The New Edition Story brewed by BET, taking a closer look at R&B pop group New Edition’s rise to fame in the ‘80s. On whether the specific era piqued his interest by the look of his roster, he says, “No particular interest, it just happened that way. Even though [Stranger Things and The New Edition Story] were both set in the ‘80s, they were totally different experiences. My favorite thing about this was discovering what it was like for my parents growing up.” Playing Ricky Bell, Caleb did as much research on Slick Rick’s dance moves and demeanor, but only got the feel of the story upon meeting him on set. “My entire performance came from studying him. I watched old videos and interviews, but I also asked a lot of questions. Mr. Ricky was available to answer everything

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and was on set sometimes,” he shares. “It was challenging playing a character that exists and that everyone knows, so I was determined to learn as much as I could about him. I really wanted to make him happy with my portrayal.” With a wide range of projects under his belt at only 15, Caleb’s pursuit of his craft has only begun. “There are so many stories to tell–I just want to be part of the storytelling and touch people’s lives while telling the story.” He continues, “[With my experience], theater performance is so different from TV and film. Every show is live, so once the curtain goes up, you have to get it right. For TV, you have a chance at a few trials and errors to get it right. If the right part came along, I would love to do theater again.” Crossing the borders of acting, he’s prepared to explore the different corners of performance. “I love acting, but I would also love to write my stories, direct, and also produce.” And just like his beginning, he also encourages the youth to chase their dreams. “My advice to other [aspiring actors] is to always be your biggest fan! Stay focused on what you want, and don’t let anybody say you can’t do it.” Caleb McLaughlin might have a penchant for embodying nostalgia in his current roles, but he gives us something new every time.

@calebrmclaughl1 Styled by Gabriel Langenbrunner Grooming Shiyena for Exclusive Artists using Purlisse Skincare

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“ Even though [ Stranger Things and The New Edition Story ] were both in the ‘80s, they were totally different experiences.”

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Breaking through the random pop fantasies of modern chart-toppers, electropop diarist HAYLEY KIYOKO isn’t afraid to wear her art on her sleeve and bare her soul to the world, ‘cause she certainly can handle the truth.

By Pola Beronilla

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There's no better feeling

than to fully express something you’ve been holding in for so long, and for Hayley Kiyoko, she’s been lucky enough to have done it twice. First popping up our television screens through teen bopper movies like Scooby-Doo! Curse of the Lake Monster and Lemonade Mouth, Hayley has always been listening to the beat of her own heart. “My first love was definitely music. I didn’t really plan to be an actress,” recalls the artist. “Music takes a long time to cultivate and turn into something that you’re proud of. I’ve been working on my music since I was young, but as I was getting older, I got into acting. I enjoy both, but I’m focusing all my energy on music right now.” Although she’s had an earlier stint in a five-piece girl group along with Tinashe called The Stunners, growing up to the lyrical stylings of Fiona Apple and Metric’s Emily Haines ushered her to tell her stories in her own way. “I love catchy melodies, so I always knew that pop was gonna be the right mold for me,” she shares. “I felt like I could add to the pop world because I definitely have a different perspective and point of view, so I’m glad that people are responding to it well and connecting to it on a level that I connect with.” Apart from finding the proper channel for her voice, Hayley finally wore her colors proud following the release of her breakout anthem “Girl Like Girls” in 2015. Helping young women understand their sexuality one track at a time, she’s been raising the flag alongside the LGBTQ youth. “I’ve learned not to be afraid of the truth, accept who I am, and that there’s a place for me. I think when I was writing music in 2012, I really didn’t have a purpose. I was just

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“The more I share about my life and what I’ve gone through, the more I can help people be proud of who they are at an earlier age.

writing music, telling stories, and didn’t really know how it was gonna fit into this world. Now in 2017, I’m realizing that the more I share about my life and what I’ve gone through, the more I can help people be proud of who they are at an earlier age,” she suggests. “I think it’s really cool that people are connecting to the songs, going to my concerts, feeling free and open, and loving themselves because I never really meant to do that. I always thought I was just gonna release music, and the fact that it’s helping the community accept themselves–that makes it even better. I feel really lucky to be able to create that space for people. In the big scheme of things, it helps our society progress and move our generation closer to acceptance.”

Released in September of last year, her latest EP, aptly titled Citrine, proves how much of a gem she truly is to the music industry. Braving the world of modern pop with bubblegum hooks and sugarcoated melodies, Hayley ain’t just another sweet girl on the mic. Turning honest tales of glum into electropop jams of glam, she weaves her own brand of soul-baring pop that talks about what most people don’t. These stories matter, and they echo throughout her entire catalogue. “It’s a big compliment for someone to turn up my music when they need an escape, and I hope that I can be that escape for teens, adults, and whoever wants a little break from life. Even your grandparents

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[laughs],” shares Hayley. “I want my audience to stay hopeful and positive for the future and for themselves, and for them to accept the growing pains. You know, sometimes life is sad, sometimes it’s happy, sometimes it’s somewhere in the middle, and it’s important to validate those feelings and understand what we’re all going through.” Hayley’s love for her fans is apparent, and fortunately, it’s what kept her moving past the minor fall she endured during her 25th birthday. Despite ending up with a concussion and subsequently being diagnosed with post-concussion syndrome, Hayley kept her stride and even released two self-directed music videos for “Gravel To Tempo” and “One Bad Night,” along with the release of her major label debut EP. “I really had a rough time last year because I felt like the thing that makes me an artist is really how my brain works, and when I hit my head last year, my brain wasn’t working the way it was supposed to,” she confesses. “So seeing my fans loving the music videos, even though I was doing these music videos with 50 percent of my brain not fully being there helped

me so much. That kept me going and made me aware that I just had to get through this hard time because what I was doing had a purpose and a reason, and I couldn’t stop.” Hayley might’ve gotten a long way from her humble beginnings, but she’s just getting started. hayleykiyokoofficial.com @HayleyKiyoko

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H w e’s go ou go t n nd t t By ot ed he hi c rh Po ng om y la Be to pa thm ro lo ss , a ni se io n lla . n d an he d ’s a go sp t ir the itu al blu so es ul . C ,D r A oo N n I E in L g C w A ith ES a A R’ s

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“As artists, we consume the world around us and dwell on it a bit and then produce something new… You can’t chase the culture. You have to make it come to you. Contribute to it.” Daniel Caesar

didn’t always tread his fated path with conviction. Although he was raised in a religious family, his soul yearned for something that went beyond the pages of the Gospel. “We used to have family worship in the evenings. My father would play guitar and have us all singing [laughs]. I hated it at the time, but I’m glad he insisted on it,” recalls the Toronto native. As he began to realize his sole purpose, he still found himself on a wistful pursuit of selfactualization. He knew that he was more than that. “I always wanted to be an artist, but somewhere in junior high, I had come to the conclusion it was a ridiculous idea,” he recalls. “But that changed when I got kicked out of school and met Sean Leon and the IXXI. He introduced me to my producers Matthew Burnett and Jordan Evans and the rest was history.” Leaving the comfort of his home over a crisis of faith, Daniel sought on to become a starving artist , and he had a hunger to satisfy.

Feeding on a mix of technical virtuosity and emotional power, he indulges in a vintage soul sound with a fresh luster. While he deems to follow the footsteps of Kirk Franklin, Fred Hammond, Stevie Wonder, John Mayer, Bon Iver, and Frank Ocean, he pushes himself past his comfort zone for something a bit more ambitious. Finding a multifaceted genre that makes listeners feel rather than just hear, he creates a secular R&B sound that’s unique to his own. “To be completely honest, I just stopped looking at what my peers were doing. I think as artists, we consume the world around us and dwell on it a bit to produce something new,” he shares. “But if you’re always dwelling on other people’s content, you run the risk of picking up their tendencies. You can’t chase the culture. You have to make it come to you. Contribute to it.” And contribute to the culture he did.

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“It’s important that my music is an honest representation of myself, so I don’t have to pretend all the time.”

From 2014’s Praise Break to 2015’s Pilgrim’s Paradise, Daniel Caesar consistently delivers purity to his songs that contemporary R&B radio doesn’t usually offer. Penning moody anecdotes about love, loss, faith, desire, and determination, the singer-songwriter transcends soundwaves into the inner core of our existence, leaving us with raw talent and resolute mystic. Released last June, his latest single entitled “We Find Love” doesn’t disappoint as well. With his lingering voice sinking into the tangle of gospel undertones and heart-tugging guitar chords, there’s a glorious synchronicity between the frankness of his vocals and the heaviness of the lyrics when he sings, “We find love, we get up / And we fall down, we give up.” Not until we are lost do we begin to understand ourselves, and now that we’ve found Daniel Caesar, we’re beginning to understand what we’ve been missing all along. While Toronto has become known for a variant auto-tuned form of R&B, you, on the other hand, opt to go for a stripped-down approach to soul. What inspired you towards this approach? I’ve always loved analog methods of doing things. I was introduced to music and songwriting through guitar. I didn’t meet anyone that made beats until after I had begun to develop a style of creating songs, and my producers helped facilitate my style as opposed to making me fit theirs—as any good producer should. Your lyrics seem to hit a chord with your fans. How important is storytelling to your music? I don’t really think about stories when writing. I try to open up and talk about what I’m going through, but cryptically, in hopes of not oversharing. It’s important that my music is an honest representation of myself, so I don’t have to pretend all the time. That would be exhausting. I don’t have all the answers; I just want to lay it all down for the listener and allow them to derive their own meaning.

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HEAVY HITTER What do you think it is about your music that has continually and increasingly drawn fans? There’s no way to really know for sure, I suppose. But one thing people are always telling me is that they appreciate how honest it is. I think people are hungry for an honest representation of the world around us because it’s changing with truth and fiction becoming increasingly indistinguishable. We’re in the era of alternative facts. People just want to feel comfort and security, and all those things. We read that there was a point in your life that you found yourself sleeping on park benches. Was there ever a point in your life when you almost gave up music? No. I never considered it. I definitely had a “get rich or die trying” mentality [laughs]. I considered taking up different illegal activities to hold me over until things worked, but I knew it would work deep down, so I learned to do without. I had too much to lose.

“I believe in what I’m doing, and that’s all the fuel I need.” From the time of your debut EP to the artist you are right now, what have you discovered about yourself? I have more time to sit, reflect, and analyze myself. I’m getting to the root of some personal problems and traumas. We all have them. Noticing bad habits and then trying to change. Also, I find myself turning into my dad more and more, which is great. He’s a good man, so I think I’ll be okay. With all this positive feedback surrounding you, how do you keep yourself grounded? I try not to pay it any mind. People see that things are picking up and they blow smoke up your ass. I believe in what I’m doing, and that’s all the fuel I need.

danielcaesar.com @danielcaesar

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Gaining popularity from his newest role, JUSTIN PRENTICE might be notorious for playing one of the most hated villains on screen right now, but weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re giving you more than 13 Reasons Why heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s far from the character he portrays. By Denise Mallabo Photographed by Irvin Rivera

button-down shirt by Barabas Men

HEAVY HITTER

jacket by Moods of Norway T-shirt by H&M pants by Levis shoes by Rubirosa

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etflix has been on a roll when it comes to their originally-produced shows— one of which is the highly talked about 13 Reasons Why. Based on the novel by Jay Asher and adapted by Brian Yorker, the series revolves around Hannah Baker who recorded seven cassette tapes, specifying 13 reasons why she killed herself. Gaining controversy for its depiction of teenage suicide, bullying, rape, and peer pressure, one of the show’s highlights was Justin Prentice, who played the show’s main antagonist. At 23, he has already appeared in shows like Malibu Country, Glee, iCarly, iZombie, and Awkward before landing the role of Bryce Walker, a seemingly innocent character who has dark secrets of his own. Growing up in Tennessee, his family moved to LA so he could fulfill his dreams of becoming an actor. “I think I was six years old when I first told my parents that I wanted to get into acting. As for what led me to it, I wish I could say something like watching Citizen Kane or Daniel Day Lewis in My Left Foot, but I think it was watching Full House and seeing the Olsen twins in that show that made me realize that I wanted to act,” quips Justin. His parents brushed his idea off until he got into his school’s drama club and community theater, which helped them realize his passion. “Acting allows you to find versions deep within yourself you may not have known existed to begin with. And I also like storytelling. I like being able to tell stories in an intriguing fashion,” he explains. Justin is nothing like his character in 13 Reasons Why, and he wants people to be aware of that. While he thinks that they both share a little bit in the confidence aspect, he’s fast to clarify that Bryce is absolutely more confident than him, but he did enjoy playing the role and was very effective doing so. “Bryce was one of those characters that allowed me the chance

SUICIDE IS ROUGH, TOUGH, “AND JARRING. THE SHOW WANTED TO PRESENT IT AS SUCH AND NOT TO SHY AWAY FROM SHOWING IT BECAUSE THE WRITERS DIDN’T WANT TO MAKE IT AN EASY THING OR LOOK LIKE AN EASY WAY OUT.” to stretch as an actor, because he’s very different from who I am in real life. It was one of those roles wherein when I read the script, I was like, ‘Oh my gosh, I really want to be a part of this,’” says Justin. He had to play the waiting game and do several callbacks before he got the role but the wait was definitely worth it. “It was a privilege to be a part of such a cool show. To get a job as a series regular is no easy feat,” he adds. In preparation for his role, Justin did a lot of research concerning rape and sexual assault. “I read news articles on real life cases and watched movies and TV series with similar characters. I also worked with a psychiatrist and sexual assault expert to piece things together to make sure that we could make him as accurate as possible,” shares Justin. “Sometimes guys in high school—mostly athletes and

jocks—feel like they’re above the law. There’s this arrogance that’s almost an ode to them in terms of treating women because of who they are, and a lot of that is due to the lack of education on what sex and consent is.” He goes on, “At the end of the day, it was important for me to portray Bryce as an ordinary kid because that’s what a lot of these cases are. A lot of them are date rapes. One of my goals was to make him as realistic as possible that people would recognize the Bryces in their own lives.” Despite the criticism the show has received for its portrayal of teenage angst and controversial issues, he says that he was already expecting it to happen but stands by the show’s producers and writers, believing that they did justice to the series. “The people who speak against this show are probably

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bothered about how the suicide of Hannah was portrayed,” he says. “But I stand by their choice because suicide is rough, tough, and jarring. The show wanted to present it as such and not to shy away from showing it because the writers didn’t want to make it an easy thing or look like an easy way out. The way that it was shown was so heart-wrenching.” He recommends that parents watch 13 Reasons Why with their kids, so that they’ll have an understanding of what their children are going through since bullying has changed through out the years. “I know it’s very cliché, but hang in there. It’s important to realize that there’s a whole universe outside the four walls of high school,” advises Justin. “Also know that how people treat you is by no means a reflection of yourself. We’re all important; we’re all human beings trying to make the world go round. Hopefully from the show, people will take away that actions have consequences, and that sometimes, they’re severe.” Excited to be working on the show’s second season, the cast and crew have already begun shooting. Justin hopes that in some ways, the show can delve into Bryce’s life more closely into his past. “I’d love to meet his parents at some point to see where he probably gets all of these issues from,” he shares. Motivated to portray his character again and to see its progression, Justin is on his way to continue the storylines that were left open-ended.

@justinprentice Photographer’s Assistant Phil Limprasertwong Styled by Shradha Arora Grooming Irvin Rivera shirt by H&M

KNOW THAT HOW PEOPLE TREAT YOU IS BY NO “MEANS A REFLECTION OF YOURSELF. WE’RE ALL IMPORTANT; WE’RE ALL HUMAN BEINGS TRYING TO MAKE THE WORLD GO ROUND.” 108 - STATUSMAGONLINE.COM

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FASHION

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BEAUTY

CELEBRITY

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DIRECTORY BRANDS ALDO Greenbelt 5, Makati City ALEXANDER WANG alexanderwang.com BLUE blueinc.co.uk CALL IT SPRING Greenbelt 3, Makati City CHARLES & KEITH Greenbelt 5, Makati City CHEROKEE cherokeeusa.com DOLCE AND GABBANNA dolcegabbana.com DOROTHY PERKINS Glorietta 3, Makati City DR. MARTENS drmartens.com DRYBAR thedrybar.com ECKO ecko.com FOREVER 21 SM Makati, Makati City H&M SM Makati, Makati City JANE IREDALE janeiredale.com JUICE BEAUTY juicebeauty.com KJAER WEIS kjaerweis.com LIPSTICK QUEEN lipstickqueen.com

ARTISTS MARTEL NYC martelnyc.com MEANNE SANTOS-ONG instagram.com/meannesantosong MISS SELFRIDGE Greenbelt 5, Makati City OXYGEN Glorietta 3, Makati City PEDRO Greenbelt 5, Makati City PENSHOPPE Glorietta 3, Makati City RALPH LAUREN ralphlauren.com RODIN LLC oliolusso.com SMASHBOX smashbox.com ST. TROPEZ sttropeztan.com TOM FORD tomford.com TOPMAN Greenbelt 3, Makati City TOPSHOP Greenbelt 3, Makati City UNIQLO SM Makati, Makati City WACOAL wacoal-america.com WAREHOUSE Greenbelt 5, Makati City ZARA zara.com

Julianna Alabado (Stylist) julianna-alabado.com Jack Alexander (Photographer) jackalexanderphotographer.co.uk Miguel Alomajan (Photographer) instagram.com/migotilyomanila Mong Amado (Hair) instagram.com/mongamado Francesca Brazzo (Makeup) francescabrazzo.com Cats Del Rosario (Hair) jedrootmanila.com Magdalena Niziol (Photographer) magdalenaniziol.com Apple Faraon (Makeup) maccosmetics.com.ph Shanna Fisher (Photographer) shannafisher.com Matthew Green (Hair) matthewgreenhair.com Jamie Huggins (Stylist) jamie-huggins.com Gabriel Langenbrunner (Stylist) gabriellangenbrunner.com James Lopez (Photographer) instagram.com/semajzepol Shaira Luna (Photographer) shairaluna.tumblr.com Pamm Merrera (Makeup) makeupforever.com.ph Maria Ortega (Makeup) mariaortegamakeup.com Lorenzo Posocco (Stylist) lorenzoposocco.com

Daniel Santillan (Photographer) instagram.com/dj.santillan Shiyena (Hair) eamgmt.com/shiyena Flo Trinidad (Stylist) instagram.com/floriantrinidad Yu Tsai (Photographer) yutsai.com Sam Zachrich (Photographer) samzachrich.com

S T A T U S I NVA D E S

GOLDEN GIRL Creating silhouettes with both her body and her pen, artist and model SHERLAINE YAP hits twin peaks in both realms.

@sherlame Portraits by Nyael David Product photography Nadine Layon

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VINYL RECORDS

PENIS ASH TRAY

I made this from stone clay a friend gave as a souvenir from Japan.

NOTEBOOKS

The notebooks are my doodle journals. They’re from 2015-2016.

SHAKESPEARE BOOKS

I bought these from Booksale in CDO for less than 100 pesos a pop and I love them ‘cause they’ve got insights from people who probably owned them a decade ago.

ZINES

I made these zines for fun and I actually hated how it turned out. But I was glad I actually got to make something.

FILM CAMERAS

The Zorki rangefinder is from 1956 according to the serial number, and the Yashica is an SLR from the ‘80s.

KENDAMA PILL

I bring this with me if I’m traveling ‘cause I get bored sitting around and just waiting.

PORTRAIT DRAWING

A few years ago, I was having lunch at Chili’s with my sister and this local abstract painter was sitting a couple of tables away, and when he left, he gave me this napkin doodle. STATUSMAGONLINE.COM - 113

Hair and Makeup Pamm Merrera of Profesionella Maquillage Photographer’s Assistant Carlo Nuñez

My favorites are “Love Potion Number 9” from Rupert Herb’s Tijuana Brass, Hall & Oates’ Abandoned Luncheonette–perfect morning songs, Al Green’s Don’t Hurt Me No More, and Solomon Burke’s I Need You Tonight.

STATUS Magazine July 2017 feat. Dua Lipa

Articles inside

New Rules

Lost and Found

Electric Love

New Rules