Vol. 22 No. 6
AUG-SEP 2017
FA S H I O N A B L E S P O T S I N C E B U
P150 • US$10
FASHION ISSUE
{FILES} FASHION
Amparito Lhuillier Kryz Uy Bee Urgello Karlo Lim Victoria Yabut Tatah Costales Strozzi Rosende Charles and Maan Ting Bruce Sy Charmaine de Leon Ruby Pansoy Angela Rapes Gab Lasala Vanessa de Gracia
Mia and Jacques Christophe The Arcenas-Branellec Wedding
The Jewelmer scion and Cebuana designer begin a new chapter in their lives with an intimate celebration on France's Brittany coast M AY 2 0 1 7 z e e l i f e s t y l e c e b u . c o m
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Planning a
meeting party? or
Book your next event with us! In addition to beautiful ballrooms, the Summit Galleria Cebu Hotel also offers intimate meeting rooms perfect for a bridal shower, baby shower or birthday brunch.
Robinsons Galleria Cebu, General Maxilom Avenue Corner B. Benedicto Street, Cebu City 6000 7 a truly unique event experience, contact us. +63 32 888 17 77 +63 998 840 3543 2 z e e l i f e s t y l e c e b u . c o m M AY 2 0 1For
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The
Fashion Issue CONTENTS
8 contributors
63 fashion profiles
Meet the people behind the issue
Tatah Costales, Victoria Yabut, See Things Eyewear, Strozzi, Urban Lifestyle
10 editor's note Weird Fashion
75 closet tour
13 report
A closet tour of Cebu’s influential personalities; Amparito Lhuillier, Kryz Uy, Karlo Kim, and Bee Urgello
trends for 2018, the local fashion and Binisaya Film Fest
34 la vie en rose Mayenne Carmona on the season’s biggest and boldest trends
92 fashion Rei Kawakubo and Intimate Affair
110 coverstory The Branellec-Arcenas Wedding
37 spaces
118 events
Fashionable spots in the metro
A backstage pass to last month’s happenings
51 fashion girls
126 last page
The city's young stylish set talk about fashion over chocolate high tea
Dan Douglas Ong
57 designer’s dinner Sought-after designers on Cebu’s evolving fashion industry
110 ON THE COVER Mia Arcenas and Jacques Christophe Brannelec photography Dan Douglas Ong hair and makeup Janice Barillo
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executive editor EVA GULLAS editor-at-large MELO ESGUERRA managing editor SHARI QUIMBO assistant editor CARLO RIVERA editorial assistants HAZEL MAKOTO and GIA MAYOLA copy editor JANET ALFAFARA fashion editor OJ HOFER online consultant MICHAEL JEROME SANCHEZ contributing editors MIA ARCENAS, KATSY BORROMEO-CHIONGBIAN creative director EDWIN JAVIER JR. layout artist JEAN LIM
AUG-SEPT 2017 • Vol 22, No. 6
publisher EVA GULLAS administrative officer JAYLENE GIPALA administrative assistant LAYRA SURBAN senior account manager AMY UNDALOC Manila Office: AILYN TASIC Unit 806 Cityland Pioneer, 128 Pioneer St., Mandaluyong City Tel No. (02) 634-5532, Mobile No. (0939) 493-7184 ZEE Publications, Inc. 888 Plaridel St., Umapad, Mandaue City Cebu, Philippines 6000 Tel. No. (032) 328-4163, (032) 234-2636 Cel. No. (0908) 810-1812 • (0920) 970-1394 Email addresses: EDITORIAL editorial@zeelifestylecebu.com ADMINISTRATIVE jaylene@zeelifestylecebu.com CEBU ADVERTISING amy@zeelifestylecebu.com MANILA ADVERTISING manila@zeelifestylecebu.com
Zee Lifestyle is published by Zee Publications, Inc. Publication schedule: February issue – February 15 • March issue – March 15 • April issue – April 15 May issue – May 15 • June issue – June 15 • July issue – July 15 August/September issue – August 15 • October issue – October 15 November issue – November 15 • December/January issue – December 15 © All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. www.zeelifestylecebu.com | facebook.com/zeelifestyle | @ZeeLifestyle
Zee Lifestyle magazine is available in the Business Class sections and Lounges of Cathay Pacific, Qatar Airways and Silk Air and also distributed in the rooms of Alpa City Suites, Alta Cebu Village Resort, Bayfront Hotel, BE Resorts Mactan, Bluewater Maribago Beach Resort, Cebu City Marriott Hotel, Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan, Harold's Hotel, Marco Polo Plaza Cebu, Montebello Villa Hotel, Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu, Plantation Bay Resort & Spa, Radisson Blu Cebu, Shangri-La's Mactan Resort & Spa Cebu, The Henry Hotel.
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CONTRIBUTORS
Paul John Yu, writer
Gab Arcenas, writer
Jana Baltazar, writer
An oversized black or white linen button-down over a cropped ripped denim jeans, paired with minimalist sneakers. It’s chic, classy and, most importantly, a suitable ensemble for Cebu’s scorching hot climate.
Any black polo, the black cardigan (because it hides the belly), Wranglers, and any pair of comfortable slip-ons.
I love anything denim. So, my go to outfit usually consists of skinny jeans or denim jacket paired with light, flowy tops or dresses. I complete my look with the ballet flats for a stylish yet comfortable feel.
What's your go-to outfit?
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Anton Java and Patty Taboada, writers
Sophia Sanchez and Jesse Jake Daan, model /photographer
Head-to-toe black.
Sophia: My go to outfit is a denim skirt, a crop top, paired with black boots, plus sunnies. I always bring a pair of sunnies with me. Jesse: It would have to be a well-fitted pullover, a pair of cropped pants, and trainers! It’s casual, smart casual, and can sometimes slip into semi formal.
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EDITOR'S NOTE
I Posing in one of my current favorite ensembles—a thrifted polka-dot dress and classic nude sandals; A sneak peek of the Vague editor Mereng Gurang's online show. Make sure to like us on Facebook to catch the new episodes.
didn’t associate fashion with me. I was just weird,” says fashion blogger (and my personal style favorite) Vanessa East during the chocolate high tea we hosted for some of the city’s most styling young personalities. It’s a point that struck me, especially in a time when fast fashion has made it hard to walk down the street without running into someone in the same dress. For all the negative connotations it came with when we were younger, weird is now something the fashion crowd wears like a crown. Weird is good. Weird is what we aim for. The belief has certainly been reinforced by the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, when they devoted an exhibit to the creations of Rei Kawakubo. The Art of the In-Between was a labyrinth that showcased Kawakubo’s use of unconventional materials and exaggerated silhouettes, and drove home the Japanese designer’s inherent originality. “She is a revolutionary!” I remember our fashion editor Oj Hofer telling me while we were discussing the concept of Comme On, a fashion editorial that showcased pieces from local designers that were inspired by Kawakubo’s unique aesthetic. The search for what’s different is something that drives even me as I look for style inspiration—there’s Leandra Medine of Man Repeller, who advocates no-pants work weeks and grandmother dressing (something that speaks to me on so many levels). There’s the inimitable Iris Apfel, whose large round glasses, bevy of bangles and fur-lined coats have rendered her iconic. And yes, there’s Vanessa East, who believes in thoughtful, sometimes overdressing for even the most minute occasions. This might sound cliche, but dare to be different. Wear what everyone else is wearing, but not in the way they’re wearing it. When you bring your personality to the fore and give your creativity a chance to go wild, that’s when you find your best style moments.
SHARI QUIMBO Editor
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ROBINSONS GALLERIA CEBU
MEGA FASHION HALL
NOW ON
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18 The of
Resort
2018
With another Fashion Week coming to a close, we sit back and look at the aftermath—and then we give our closets an update. Editor Shari Quimbo shares the pieces and collections that will be inspiring her wardrobe this season.
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REP ORT ORANGE Don’t be afraid to get bright. Amidst the patterns and feminine pastels were pops of unapologetically saturated color—and our favorite was the almost saccharine orange hue. We particularly love it in pantsuits, whether that’s the casual version at Mara Hoffman or the perfectly tailored pair at Prabal Gurung.
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Monique Lhuillier
FILIPINIANA Is it just us or is there a little nod to the terno in Monique Lhuillier’s exaggerated sleeves? It’s a modern take on the national garment that’s certainly inspired us to bring more Filipiniana into our closets.
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Mara Hoffman
Prabal Gurung
3 Elizabeth+James
THE WHITE SHIRT It may be nothing new, but the Olsen twins’ loose take on the button-down certainly feels fresh. Styled with boyfriend jeans or a long skirt, the boxy shape at Elizabeth + James exudes effortless, cool girl chic.
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THE NEW SHOULDER The stylish set might be suffering from mild off-shoulder fatigue, but that doesn’t mean we’re ready to cover them up completely. Try strategic cutouts like the ones at Rebecca Minkoff and Prabal Gurung, and the dramatic cape detail at Rosie Assoulin.
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Rebecca Minkoff
Rosie Assoulin
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REP ORT
Prabal Gurung
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Rosie Assoulin
SUIT YOURSELF There seems to be a touch of the 80s in the suits that made their way down this season’s runways. No-nonsense patterns and colors, power shoulders and a slightly boxy feel make these ensembles almost androgynous, although Fendi’s pink version with a pleated skirt is a more feminine alternative.
Gabriele Hearst
PEEK-A-BOO When it comes to showing skin, less seems to be more this season, with strategically placed cutouts and slits that reveal bare slivers of flesh. Rosetta Getty did this especially well, pairing minimalist and loose silhouettes with subtle peeks of the ribs. Rosetta Getty
Chloe
Diane Von Furstenberg
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PINK LIFE No matter how old we get, there’s something that draws you to the unabashed girliness of pink, and we found out how to make it work for any occasion—wear it tailored for work at Fendi, as bold outerwear as in Versace, in a matching set like at Victoria Beckham, or in a pastel shade for wispy dress like Kate Spade.
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LA VIE BOHEME The 60s may have injected themselves in Chloe’s collection, where boho details like fringed hems, sturdy knits and thin scarves punctuated the looks. Match that up with flared jeans, and we’ve got something ultra flattering but just as chic. zeelife s tylecebu.com AUG -SEP 2017
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Stella McCartney
Kate Spade
Victoria Beckham Versace
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Fendi
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Designer We Love: JOHANNA ORTIZ The Colombian designer came out with a collection that seems to epitomize what resortwear is supposed to be—vacation-worthy pieces to be worn during sunny days in exotic locales. The tiered skirts, tropical prints and sometimes larger-than-life ruff les certainly make a statement, and yet it’s never too over-the-top thanks to crisp tailoring and muted colors. We know what to stuff our suitcases with on the next holiday!
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REP ORT
Coach
DSquared
Valentino
Oscar de la Renta Versace
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Public School
DOING DENIM The Americana classic seemed to be all the rage at this season’s show. Whether it was weathered with frayed hems at Public School, a crop top with cut-out shoulders at Versace, decorated with patches at Oscar de la Renta and Coach, paired with leather at Dsquared or worn head-to-toe at Valentino, it’s once again clear why denim is such a classic.
TRULY WORLD-CLASS MANDANI BAY SHOW GALLERY BAGS SEVEN INTERNATIONAL AWARDS IN ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN The Mandani Bay Show Gallery is the Philippines’ first show gallery to truly meet world-class standards. A collaboration of global architects, engineers, and designers, the structure combines the best practices in modern architecture with nature-inspired principles. At the helm of the Show Gallery’s concept and layout, PTang Studio Limited, one of Hong Kong’s foremost names in interior design, created spaces that reflect the impeccable merging of aesthetics and ergonomics. The architecture was executed by Hong Kong-based LWK & Partners Limited, a leading design firm with a solid portfolio in Asia. The Show Gallery’s accolades in space design come from three independent multinational award-giving bodies, namely the Asia Pacific Property Awards 2017, part of a global firm that recognizes the world’s finest property companies; the BCI Asia Interior Design Awards 2017, part of the prestigious BCI Media Group, which honors excellence in construction design; and the Interior Space and Exhibition Design Category 2016 of the A’ Design Award and Competition, a worldwide contest that highlights the best outputs across design-oriented products from all creative disciplines. The 1,500-square meter Show Gallery gives a glimpse of the lifestyle that residents can look forward to at Mandani Bay’s 20-hectare waterfront property.
An expansive foyer made primarily of glass and timber welcomes visitors. At the center is an open-air atrium with a landscaped garden that sits amidst a pond. This water feature continues in a stream around the structure, giving it the remarkable impression of being afloat.
BCI ASIA INTERIOR DESIGN AWARDS 2017
A’ DESIGN AWARD & COMPETITION, ITALY
INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY AWARDS 2017, ASIA PACIFIC
Retail Category
Golden A’ Design Award Winner for Interior Space & Exhibition Design Category SILVER AWARD
Mixed-Use Interior, Asia Pacific, NOMINEE Best Mixed-Use Interior, Philippines, 5 STAR AWARD Best Office Interior, Philippines, 5 STAR AWARD Office Interior, Philippines, AWARD WINNER Mixed-Use Interior, Philippines, AWARD WINNER
www.mandanibay.com +63 32 2626 888
HLURB LS Nos. for Suites Towers: (1) 031132 & (2) 031136
Developed by HTLand Inc., a joint venture of:
Location: F.E. Zuellig Avenue, Mandaue City
Completion Date: December 2020
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REP ORT Chanel
Givenchy
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Reem Acra
WHITE OUT Appearing on the runway as tailored pieces and sheer dresses, the all-white ensemble proves as powerful as ever, continuing to be a goto choice for looking instantly confident and put-together.
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Zimmerman
SWIM FAN No one does swimwear like Zimmermann—certainly glamorous and definitely statement-making, the Australian brand presents swimsuits in shapes we’d never thought to wear at the beach before. This season is no different, with big ruff les, cutouts and a retro feel.
Diane Von Furstenberg
Giorgio Armani
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COAT OF ARMS A pretty piece of outerwear is something that instantly elevates an outfit, and this season we’re all about this one from Gucci. In a bold and bright color and a f lattering A-line shape, we have a feeling this thing’s going places.
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Emilio Pucci
PRINT CRAZE These days, Emilio Pucci’s iconic print isn't the only one grabbing attention on the runways. Designers have colored their maxi dresses with a variety of patterns, elevating classic shapes into new chic heights.
Zac Posen
It's time to experience authentic Spanish cuisine
Opens August 17 2017 6:00pm - 10:30pm +63 32 401 9982 info.mactan@crimsonhotel.com
Chef Chele Gonzalez shares his favorite tapas and family recipes in Enye, Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan's new Spanish Restaurant.
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REP ORT
Rachel Zoe
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SHINE BRIGHT If anyone can be expected to bring in unadulterated Hollywood glam, it’d be Rachel Zoe. Even her classic tuxedo was done in a metallic sheen, while her silver tassel dress is perfect for the partying mood.
Fendi
BOOT CAMP At every Fashion Week, there is that one piece that I tend to obsess over, and for Resort 2018, it’s these beautiful thigh-high boots from Fendi. With its rich nude color, pipe detailing and flattering pointy toes, it’s everything we’ve been dreaming of in statement footwear. Prabal Gurung
Erdem
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SPRING FEVER The season comes full bloom at Erdem, where the retro silhouettes are done in f loral patterns in muted colors. There is an almost ladies-who-lunch character to the collection—but maybe that’s just because of the evening gloves.
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Stella McCartney
Etro
PAJAMA PANTS I, for one, am glad that pajama pants get a longer shelf life. Comfortable, f lattering and incredibly stylish in that “I woke up like this” kind of way, they’re a constant in the wardrobe of the most fashionable people I know. A lot of iterations made its way down the runway, but the Etro blue silk trousers in particular are the stuff of dreams.
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REP ORT
Make Me Blush
The insiders have declared it—millenial pink is having its moment, and it looks like it might be staying a while. The sweet rose hue may have garnered popularity for its undeniably Instagram-friendly look, but it’s the perfect way to add a sophisticated pop of color to your everyday style moments.
Sunnies Moritz Sunglasses Sophia Amoruso's Nasty Galaxy
Reformation Playa Dress in Blush Zara Bow-detail Blouse and Wide-legged Trousers
Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet in La Diva
Kate Spade Prospect Place Small Pippa
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REP ORT
1. Kiehls Leave it to Kiehl’s to constantly find skin-boosting nutrients in usually commonplace natural ingredients. The Kiehl’s Calendula & Aloe Soothing Hydration Masque relies on the f lower’s petals to refresh and soften otherwise dry skin. Matched with the hydrating aloe vera, you’ve got something that’ll give you a cool, soothing boost like no other. Ayala Center Cebu 2. The Body Shop This nourishing face mask revives and refines your skin to days. The Himalayan Charcoal Purifying Glow Mask is a 100% vegan clay mask infused with bamboo charcoal, green tea leaves and organic tea tree oil. It successfully draws out impurities, giving a tingling sensation, which is how you know the product is definitely working. Ayala Center Cebu, SM City Cebu, SM Seaside City 3. La Mer Recapture your youth with the La Mer Lifting and Firming Mask, which banks on the brand’s 50 years of innovation and craftsmanship that immediately tightens and refines the skin. The product brings together La Mer’s legendary Concentrated Miracle Broth, that intensifies the natural renewal process, and the new Concentrated Lifting Ferment, that enhances the skin’s density and elasticity for a sculpted look. Rustan’s Department Store, Ayala Center Cebu 4. The Face Shop Packed with brightening properties, the Rice Real Nature Face Mask gives your skin the glow you've always wanted. With the help of rice extract, it reduces age spots and brigthens the skin. Ayala Center Cebu, SM City Cebu, SM Seaside City
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Masked Crusade Give your skin a boost with these at-home facial treatments.
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Moisture Farming There’s a reason why a bottle of the Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+ sells every 5.76 seconds around the world—its dual action of moisturizing and strengthening the skin’s barrier has proven effective for getting healthy, hydrated skin. Robinsons Galleria Cebu, SM Seaside City
Cine Oriente: An Encore
The BINISAYA Film Festival pays homage to the Cine Oriente, the oldest cinematheque in the country and a witness to the city’s vibrant creativity and history.
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n light with Philippine Cinema’s Centennial Celebration, we’d like to put a spotlight on Colon, the oldest street in the Philippines. As a well-known landmark and a first-hand witness to the rich Cebuano history, it is also home to the grand old Cine Oriente. Arguably the oldest cinematheque in the country, Teatro Junquera—as it was formerly known—was built in 1895 as a venue for literary-musical programs, stage plays, vaudeville and operas. In 1915, it became known as Cine Oriente after it was purchased by Don Jose Avila. Cebu was once a venue of a thriving filmmaking industry. In fact, Colon used to be the film hub in Cebu from the 50s to the late 70s—decades known as the Golden Age of Cebuano Cinema. Cinema exhibitions in the region began in the 1900s, but it was not until Cine Oriene premiered silent movies in 1920 when movie production commenced. Renowned films such as Tahas (1950), Rosas Pangdan (1957), Badlis sa Kinabuhi (1969), and Mayor Andal (1979) showcased the talents of Cebuano artists during the peak of the industry in Cebu. More theaters were also developed in the area as the demands increased. Although faced with turbulent economic restraints in the 80s and 90s, exportation of Cebuano talent to the rising Manila-based economy, rising popularity of malls in the city, questionable reputation of Colon, and movie piracy, some filmmakers still persistently created films that feature our culture and home. Other cinemas in the area closed down, but Cine Oriente
remains as a continuing legacy of the once celebrated Cebuano film scene; a legacy passed on by a devoted family. Despite the direct competition, the longest standing cinema continues to serve as a “testimony of people’s resilience and passion in celebrating life and culture” in the heart of Cebu. Up to this day, the cinema’s significant role encourages different film festivals and screenings to return and celebrate their Cebuano roots. As a way of honoring Cebu’s rich historical heritage in movie production, BINISAYA Film Festival 2017 will be screening a Cebuano Cinema One film retrospective at Cine Oriente from September 22-30, found along the intersection of Colon and Legaspi Street beside Colonnade Mall. Z AUG -SEP 2017 zeelife s tylecebu.com
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Local Love
We may rave about what’s on the runways during Fashion Week, but that doesn’t mean we’re not fans of the brands back home. These local names are some of the ways we stay stylish in Cebu.
Sewing Classes with Jojo Martinez If you’d ever had dreams of whipping up your own clothing line (or at least filling up your closet with personalized pieces), now’s your chance! Fashion designer Jojo Martinez recently started opening up sewing modules that tackles different wardrobe basics. Currently in offering are sewing essentials that cover folding and stitching, and skirts, blouses and dresses modules where you learn how to make the pieces in three different styles. Best of all, you get to take whatever you make home with you. (032) 404 4929, 0956 285 7623
Make It Alive Bags and cars are interests that might seem worlds apart, but in the case of Jennifer Sarmiento and Kirby Yu Bun-an, it’s a juxtaposition that was ripe for business—pairing Kirby’s car detailing skills and Jen’s knowledge of bags and how to care for them became the backbone of Make It Alive. The bag repair shop is dedicated to bringing old and worn bags (and even shoes!) back to life with their seven-step process that involves dry cleaning, metal polishing, leather or cowhide cleaning, deep treatment, UV coating, glossy treatment and nanotechnology. The intensive process seems to work, with clients already raving about how their bags come back looking like new. Of course, the service isn’t confined to just bags— Make It Alive works with shoes, and any suede or leather items. (032) 319 0246, 0917 624 1259 makeitaliveph@gmail.com @makeitaliveph
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Moksha by Ixa Escario One of the brands we’ve been most excited about lately is Moksha by Ixa Escario, a custom-made swimwear line. Swimsuits can be a challenge to shop for—with the multitude of body types out there, it’s difficult to find one that accentuates your figure—and Moksha takes all the guesswork out of the process. You’re measured, asked to pick a style and color, and wait for your made-to-measure suit. Ixa’s designs are fun and a little bit cheeky—the designer prefers cuts that are a bit higher, to fully highlight the derriere. The sexy design is surprisingly f lattering on all body types. MOKSHAbyixaescario
Online Embellishments
Accessories can make an outfit, and these brands let us find the perfect ones with just a click of a button
CITY OF VINTAGE Beach girl at heart Mac Vengco Bergantin started out with pinup-style bikinis, and her recent accessories release have gotten us in the wanderlust spirit. Her tassel earrings, f loral details and woven bags are definitely going into our suitcases on the next beach getaway. City of Vintage
CASUALE CEBU Featuring native bags with a twist, Casuale Cebu proves traditional straw bags and unassuming canvas bags can be made chic with pops of colors and a mix of textures. The brand is a brainchild of fashion bloggers and couple Sophia Sanchez and Jesse Jake Daan, who created the laidback aesthetic we’re excited to emulate. @casualecebu
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Brand Width We catch up with our favorite brands to see what’s coming up next season.
Who’s the BOSS? With a collection designed for the global traveller, the BOSS Menswear Collection for Fall-Winter 2017 presents a man prepared for everything and ready to take on the world. Tailoring sits at the heart of the collection, with each look grounded with precision cuts and expert construction—the starting point of BOSS Menswear. There is a contrast in each look—heavy wool with lightweight nylon, precise suits under practical parkas—and a maritime inf luence in the design and detail. Innovative fabrics reinforce the theme, while fisherman-style knitwear brings in a practical, masculine look. City of Dreams Manila, Greenbelt 5, Newport Mall, Rustan’s Shangri-La, Shangri-La Plaza East Wing
Fabric Foundation Burberry reveals the full assortment from its DK88 bag collection, introduced on the runway as part of the February 2017 show in London and celebrated in a campaign shot on location at the Henry Moore Studios & Gardens in Herfordshire. The collection is close to the brand’s heart, named after the house code for the brand’s signature honey-colored gabardine fabric. The DK88 reimagines styles in Burberry’s new Trench Leather, paying tribute to the fabric at the very heart of the Burberry story. Greenbelt 4, Rustan’s Makati, Rustan’s Shangri-La
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Selena Gomez for Coach
Off the Cuff Created by Aldo Cipullo for Cartier New York in the 1970s, the Just Un Clou bracelet continues to make a powerful statement. Cipullo’s outrageous appropriation of the nail as jewelry echoed to the anti-conformist sentiment of the era—now, Cartier reinvents the humble yet edgy piece of hardware as a necklace. The Just Un Clou Torque brings the finishing touch to a versatile collection that features an oversized bracelet and a necklace, either tinted in yellow gold, pink gold or white gold, or paved with diamonds. The pieces magnify the precious qualities of everyday objects with a sophisticated take on the ordinary. Greenbelt 4, Rustan’s Shangri-La, Newport Resorts World
As a brand known for its classic Americana looks, Coach found the perfect fit in Selena Gomez. The multi-talented singer, actress, producer and philanthropist captures the American optimism of Coach in the brand’s Fall 2017 campaign. Portrayed as the Coach girl about to embark on a road trip, Gomez lounges in the blush-toned leather interior of a 1976 Plymouth Fury—the vintage car, a recurring reference in Coach campaigns, symbolizes the freedom and endless possibility of the open road. With three fashion films coming to launch the collection— each dedicated to the key bags of the season: the Rogue, the Coach Swagger and the Edie—Selena Gomez talks about how excited she was to work with the brand. When did you first become aware of Coach? Coach was actually one of my first designer purchases. Where I’m from in Texas, Coach was the must-have brand. I remember saving up with my cousin Priscilla to get matching wallets. What was your favorite part of shooting the campaign? Seeing creative director Stuart Vevers’ vision for the season come full circle was very special. When I attended the show during NYFW to actually shooting the campaign overlooking NYC, it was all pretty surreal. What do you love about being a Coach girl? Coach made me feel like family from day one. Having the opportunity to grow creatively by working on a design collaboration and reaching so many girls through the Coach Foundation is important to me, and I love that Coach is supportive. What pieces from the collection are you excited to incorporate into your personal style? My favorite Fall piece is a cropped shearling jacket with embroidery that will look cute dressed down, with a pair of vintage jeans. The embroidered dress I am wearing in the Swagger campaign image is so fun too. I love the bow detailing!
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La Vie En Rose by Mayenne Carmona
The
Whimsical Realm T Mayenne Carmona takes a look at the season’s big and bold trends.
here is only one word I can think of to describe this current fashion trend: upbeat! There seems to be a no-holds-barred interpretation of all the rules that used to apply to good fashion sense. How do you like the idea of wearing anything that suits your fancy— whatever, whenever and however it may look? If you have always
fantasized about looking like a punk princess in voluminous yardage of tulle in radical colors, or feeling like a badass warrior queen in a sheer peek-a-boo designer creation, or sparkling in bling from head-to-toe, now’s the time to do it! What about wearing a beaded sports bra over bold floral palazzos to show off the toned abs you spent hours toiling at the gym for? Wear it now—your haters will love you for your guts!
THIS PAGE FROM LEFT Agile Zamora in floral peek-a-boo by Dobie Aranda (photographed by Camera Club of the Philippines); Allure editor JoAnne Rae in a sweet pink gown Rhett Eala; Ann Puno in Ito Curata; Frannie Jacinto in magenta color one shoulder drape gown by Ito Curata; Beautypreneur Nikki Tang in a Jermaine V. Nabong gown; Fiery in Fuschia, Marivic Vasquez in an Ito Curata strapless ballgown.
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I took the liberty of getting photos from the website of Viktor&Rolf and Stylecasters to prove my point. (upper right hand opposite page) Furthermore, the spirit of the 80s is back! Think lamè, ruffles, jumbo frills, padded shoulder, bling, and a lot of legs! If you have a treasure chest of your vintage wardrobe, bring them back to life now. Stripes and f lorals are so vibrant this season, and it’s even
of Style bigger and brighter! There is nothing conservative about the color palette, with fuschia, red, scarlet, hot pink, orange and other bright hues on the plate/ In haute couture, elements of avant-garde and exaggerated details of feathers, ruffles, beads and embroidery were dominantly present at the designer collections of Spring/Summer Fashion Week. Some of the creations really put you in a
Beaded sports bra, floral palazzos by Tory Burch Glam warrior look by Ralph & Russo
whimsical mood, and transport you to a world of high fashion fantasy. On the bright side, we can avail of these creations in our own country. We have so many talented designers, and this fact is reiterated every time I attend a big formal event. The ladies are all dressed to the nines by their favorite local designers! Take a look at these ladies’ choices—they can surely compete on the global stage of fashion. Z
THIS PAGE FROM LEFT Ballroom Dance Competition winner Michaela "Pinky" Puno in Oliver Tolentino (photographed by Camera Club of the Philippines); Dr. Aivee Teo in sweet lavender, embossed with flowers by Inno Sotto; Sari Yap in Avel Bacudio (photographed by Dookie Ducay); Businesswoman Yoli Ayson in a lace and nude tulle gown by couturier Patrcia Santos (photographed by Rupert Jacinto); Paper magnate Connie Haw in a red Patricia Santos (photographed by Patrick Uy); Duday Tuason in Rajo Laurel
Mayenne Carmona looks like a princess in a whimsical creation by Auggie Cordero.
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ADVERTORIAL
Urban Escape
On visits to the capital, Ascott Bonifacio Global City Manila proves to be the ideal city accommodations with its prime location, amenity offerings, and overall cosmopolitan style by Shari Quimbo
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henever I’m traveling to Manila, location is everything. I’ve heard enough horror stories from friends about the traffic situation—five-hour commutes and an UBER surge that can go up to 5x—to make my selection of accommodations in the capital city a lot more strategic. The last visit introduced me to Ascott in Bonifacio Global City. The brand of serviced residences is already familiar to those in the metro, with a first location opening in the heart of Makati’s central business district some time back. Ascott has been known for providing luxurious spaces and exemplary service to its guests, whether long or short-staying. With its prime spot on 5th Avenue, though, Ascott Bonifacio Global City Manila offers an experience unlike any other. For those in town on business, the building is in the midst of many international headquarters and start-up offices, while Makati and Ortigas are easily accessible via EDSA. Those who have more interests
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in recreation can easily cross the street to check out the many worldclass restaurants, fashion brands and lifestyle services in the area. Just a short drive from the airport, the hotel greets you with its spacious, two-storey lobby. A glass wall installation lining one wall, and a crystal chandelier hanging from the second-floor ceiling. While checking in, the staff invited me to a seat on their modern armchairs and offered a glass of refreshing fruit juice to enjoy while they got the room ready. The quick check-in eventually led me to my room, a suite with large windows that made the most of the sweeping views of the city. The plush bedding guaranteed a good’s night’s sleep, while the contemporary furnishings seemed to reinforce the cosmopolitan feel that the view brought on. What I was really excited about, though, was the fully functional kitchen—it was something I planned on using in the later part of my stay. The next morning meant breakfast at Alta Restaurant
on the second f loor, where the intercontinental buffet was enjoyed with 180-degree views of the surroundings through its large glass windows. Luckily enough, I was also able to sneak in some time poolside before the rest of the day’s meetings, all of which I scheduled within the area. After all, with accommodations like this, why would I want to leave BGC? By the end of the day, the hotel’s Sauna Room was the best place to relax and unwind. Later on, I took out the groceries (there's a Rustan’s Fresh supermarket is right across the street!) and whipped up a quick dinner in the comforts of my own room. As someone who enjoys capping off a busy day with a home-cooked meal, the kitchen was a feature that was really appreciated, and certainly helped Ascott Bonifacio Global City Manila feel more like home. Z 5th Ave. corner 28th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, Metro Manila (02) 860 9888 enquiry.manila@the-ascott.com
SNAP SPOTS
In the age of Instagram Stories and online oversharing, everyone’s always on the lookout for photogenic destinations in the city. Blogger couple Jesse Jake Daan and Sophia Sanchez shows us the establishments that have some of the best OOTD corners—these spots marry thoughtful design and great food for an experience that's just as enjoyable offline as it is on.
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FE AT URE
A Piece of Cake From its beginnings of a humble nest in a quiet village, 10 Dove Street Confectionery is thriving as it attracts flocks of dessert lovers. by Jana Baltazar
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arisol Verallo always had a love for baking. When she’d moved to the city from her hometown in Bogo, she started taking small orders from friends and relatives. Eventually, they convinced her to open up a small corner of her home in Sto. Niño Village. With simple countryinspired interiors and a pared down but delicious menu, Marisol opened 10 Dove Street (its name comes from its actual home address).
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Now, 15 years later, the brand has six branches under its name, including the 10 Dove Street Confectionary that specializes in cakes and desserts. As most Cebuanos have a sweet tooth, the 10 Dove Street Confectionary has become a favorite place to grab some slices of cake and coffee. The charming cafe and pastry shop now has three outlets—the first in Oakridge, another at the Axis Entertainment Avenue, and the recently opened location in SM Seaside City.
Much like the other branches, the 10 Dove Street Confectionary in SM Seaside City exudes the charm of the French countryside, radiating a laidback and shabby chic aesthetic. With touches of vintage, rustic white and some specially curated furniture pieces, the interiors were meant to complement the feeling of what it means to be home. To complete the set-up, there are elements that are in homage to doves, and birdcages are distributed around the space. Pastel
colors used in the interiors are a way of creating a cozy aura. Another noticeable aspect of the space is the full display of beautifully frosted cakes on a long table, immediately tempting visitors with its indulgence. Now, 10 Dove Street offers more than a hundred variations of cakes and pastries, and uses only the freshest ingredients. From old favorites to recent discoveries, 10 Dove Street offers diners choices from their Classic, Special and Premium selections.
They also feature a cake every week, so there’s one for any special occasion and holiday. Offering sweetness both on the menu and in its interiors, 10 Dove Street is friendly and inviting, while remaining a stylish destination that promises a delightful bon appétit. Z 10 Dove Street Confectionery SM Seaside City Cebu, Oakridge Business Park, Axis Entertainment Center, Island Central Mall 10 Dove Street
JESSE SAYS... • Wear something light in terms of color and silhouette. • Its interiors are literally like what you see on Pinterest, so there’s a lot of good backdrops to use! While you’re at it, take advantage of their rustic furniture. • Their cake gallery is great for a photo, because it’s spacious and very well-lit. • Work your angles. Some corners might be a little smaller, but with the right framing, your photo will look great.
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Premiere Class As one of the newest and most distinguishable spots in the city, The Pyramid is a culmination of international influences, both in the design and on the menu by Paul Adolfo Yu
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he construction of The Pyramid was one that was met with a lot of buzz—after all, it was hard to miss the white and glass structure going up at the Garden Bloc of Cebu IT Park. “We wanted to come up with a one-of-a-kind structure in the middle of the city, says owner Kobi Choi, a Korean businessman who also owns the cafe Coffee Prince. The idea for The Pyramid had come when Kobi noticed Cebuanos had developed a liking for wine, which prompted him to do research on the subject. His probing had led him to wine-drinking in ancient Egypt, and as they say, the rest is history.
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“This discovery created a mental image of Egypt’s colossal pyramids,” says Kobi, who had conceptualized and designed the building himself. But rather than taking inspiration from just the stone structures along the Nile, he paid homage to the more contemporary version in the Louvre in Paris. A triangular glass window runs across one side of the building, while the rest of the walls feature a spiral pattern that lights up at night. These, according to Kobi, are reminiscent of the romantic glow from Paris’ street lamps. Inside, the focal point is the wine cellar, which is located
strategically in the middle of the space. The wall-to-wall shelving is lined with a fine selection of French, Chilean and California wines, among others. The restaurant also offers a variety of local craft beers. To complement the architecture, the interiors are decorated with furniture pieces custom-made by Kathrynn Dawn Sy and Buddy Ong of PLAY Furniture Studio—modern minimalist seats with tufted leather upholstery and copper chairs that played on linear patterns serve to punctuate the more utilitarian dining tables. Although the aesthetic seems a bit grandiose, The Pyramid’s menu
is reasonably priced and features a fusion of international and local cuisine. A selection of pizzas, pastas and salads emulate a gastronomic experience in Europe. There’s a Korean version of the Crispy Pata that offers an incredible range of flavors. The Sizzling Sisig, Chicken Wings, Baked Salmon and Baby Back Ribs are other notable items on the menu. Dinner, of course, should be capped off with a glass of wine. The Pyramid’s selection is available by the glass or the bottle, and can
be paired with the restaurant’s very own cheese and cold cuts platter. The French macarons are also a great way to end the meal. With restaurants popping up around the metro, the challenge is finding something that’ll set your space apart. For The Pyramid, it seems standing apart comes naturally. Z
The Pyramid Garden Bloc, Cebu I.T. Park, Lahug, Cebu City The Pyramid
JESSE SAYS... • Take advantage of its modern architecture by showcasing the space’s sharp edges as a backdrop. • Create an ensemble that’s a balance between modern and playful. Make sure to wear something on the darker side of the spectrum to contrast with the white walls. • A no-fail OOTD spot? The corner beside the now-iconic angled class wall. • There’s a lot of natural light that flows into the space, so make sure to take advantage!
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The Balai As a new spot to enjoy brunch, Balai by Cafeplus is an urban garden that’ll make you feel right at home by Carlo Rivera
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he opening of Balai by Cafeplus came about through serendipitous circumstances. Owner and architect Ralph Reyes had been looking for a commissary for his coffee chain Cafeplus—with locations inside the University of San Carlos campus in Talamban—when he had stumbled onto this particular old house just off AS Fortuna Street. “The space was beautiful as it was,” Ralph recalls. “The natural beauty that came with its age inspired us to enliven the garden and make it accessible to brunch lovers.”
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Being the third outlet for the brand, it seemed only natural that Ralph would choose to go with brunch—after all, what goes best with coffee? Aside from being the right fit, he had some other motivations. Having spent some time in Sydney when his fiancee Adrienne Estuart lived Down Under, Ralph developed an appreciation of the Aussie brunch culture and wanted to introduce it to Cebu. A clever portmanteau for breakfast and lunch, brunch has been gaining popularity for bringing morning fare like scrambled eggs
and pancakes, at hours that don’t require you rolling out of bed quite so early. At Balai, Ralph hopes to broaden the horizons when it comes to the locals’ perspective of brunch. Favorites like toast and pancakes are served alongside the signature Balai Burger, a hearty serving that could keep you full all day. There is a selection of pasta and sandwiches on the menu, as well as an avocado toast with a perfectly poached egg. Best of all, the dishes are available throughout the day. To keep things even more exciting is the Farooj Charcoal
Chicken, from the team behind Badboyz Wings. The grilled chicken is seasoned with Middle Eastern spices for an interesting taste. “Balai offers a multi-cultural experience. We hope to bring in local and foreign tastes to the table,” Ralph explains. More than what’s on the menu, Balai’s real charm lies in the way it feels, appropriately enough, like someone’s house. Inside, warm mood lighting creates an intimate vibe, while the parquet wooden f loors are complemented by indoor plants, interspersed black painted and red brick walls, and the modern furniture. The outside is just as homey, with a few industrial details that reinforce the urban vibe—a makeshift coffee table made from
old tires, metal barrels sitting between bar stools, and concrete tabletops are just some of the details that create Balai’s distinct look. Its utilitarian tones, however, are muted by lush greenery arranged throughout the property. “Our interiors were motivated by us wanting to show an outdoor feel, as if you are in an alley or sidewalk,” Ralph shares. Although you certainly don’t forget that you’re in the city, Balai has enough soft elements that create an air of comfort and familiarity. With its delicious and distinct design, it seems only right that you can feel right at home here. Z No. 1 Floremar Subdv., AS Fortuna St. @balai_brunch_by_cafeplus
SOPHIA SAYS... • The indoor lighting might be a bit dark for your smartphone because it’s ambient. However, there are spotlights that you can use. One is pointed towards the staircase behind the counter, so make sure to snap at that spot. • If you are taking photos inside, wear outfits that lean toward dark hues and tones for an edgy and contemporary luxe look. • The lush greenery outside is also a great background for OOTD posts. Plus, there’s natural light! • There’s a small corner that features a painting of a small boy–make sure to take photos beside it for a fun twist.
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Sweet Memories On the constant lookout for things extraordinarily sweet, we come across this homegrown patisserie that is a result of a passion for baking and making memories by Trina Louise Rivera
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ampling the delicious creations of a pastry shop is often an experience that is tasted and satisfied twice—in the moment, and in retrospect. The wide selection of homebaked desserts gives you a sense of Marisse Patisserie does best—baking memories. The lady of the house Marisse Alvarez-Sy has developed a few specialty items for the menu, teeming with cakes, pastries, breads, bars and cookies that hark to happy childhood
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memories with her first cooking mentor, her mother Merceditas. Coming from a family of culinary enthusiasts, Marisse has had a love for baking and cooking since she was a little girl. In fact, she vividly remembers baking her first apple dumpling with her mother as something that spurred her passion in the kitchen. What started out as a hobby has become a full-time business, nestled in the garden estate of 32
Sanson by Rockwell. Marisse and her husband Allan Francis had been introduced to the area when they inspected the property for their son Izzy’s restaurant Kayu. During the visit, Francis saw the pool house and told her, “This is the perfect spot for your bakeshop!” Coupled with a shabby chic theme, the patisserie’s interiors is done in pale green, pastel yellow and blue. Accents come the dainty and delicate designs of birds, flowers, bicycles
and rustic lamps, tables and chairs. “It gives the feeling of a relaxing, warm, homey and peaceful feeling and mood,” Marisse explains. Truly, the patisserie exudes simplicity, calmness and elegance, the kind of atmosphere she feels people will enjoy when they sit down and enjoy her pastries. Everything on the menu, she shares, is vetted by her most difficult critics—her family. Choosing her own favorite, she admits, is difficult. “From the Pecado Mortal (a heavenly rich and dense cake with cashew
brittle), the Match Strawberry Layer Cake, Pappy’s Banana Guava Cake, the Mango Pistachio Cake— the list goes on,” she says of her recommendations. It’s clear that no matter what you order, it’s a slice that’s made with love, passion and Marisse’s expert touch. Z
32 Sanson by Rockwell, Lahug, Cebu City Marisse Patisserie www.marissepatisserie.com
JESSE SAYS... • The pool outside the restaurant is a great spot for an OOTD. Pose right on the edge because the water reflects the sunlight. • Wear something comfy to coincide with the vibe of the place. It also helps to take inspiration from the cozy ensembles seen in Korean dramas, like oversized pullovers that you can pair with well-fitted cropped pants. Then you’re good to go!
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SNAP SP OTS
Long Weekend Jan Rodriguez’s newest culinary adventure redefines the concept of a Weekend, with a capital W—a proper noun; not a time, but a place. by Patty Taboada and Antonio Java
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et’s go to Weekend!” A less-informed Grammar Nazi within earshot would jump at a chance to correct you on that statement. You could defend yourself by using pop culture references about being able to go to any day of your choosing, including any given weekend, via your telephone booth-shaped temporal displacement machine. But then you could also have mercy on his poor, ignorant soul by educating him at his own game: it’s Weekend with a capital letter—a proper noun; not a time, but a place.
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Weekend is the braindchild of restaurateur Jan Rodriguez, who is also behind the former Irie Gastropub and the local classic Ilaputi. He partnered up with businessmen Jay Alba, himself with ventures in food and hospitality, Jon Luis Yu who works in construction, and Edward Mellana, who has political ties in Agusan del Sur. The Greatest Gastronomy Club, as the men call themselves, coalesced together over a shared love of food— especially steaks, whisky, design and the service industry. Located in a two-storey space at The Greenery in Mabolo,
Weekend is a kitchen, bar and taproom. The main dining area is on the ground floor, serving dishes that are getting their fair share of praise from the public—The Fat Bastard, a mouthwatering thick-cut grilled chop, has been the runaway bestseller. For something a little more indulgent, the Rib-Eye is a prime meat done right—simple, yet bursting with flavors. Other surprises include the Buffalo Cauliflower, a unique take on a classic comfort dish with a clever use of crisp-fried cauliflowers; and the Faux Gras, a chicken liver pate in bacon fat, topped with bacon marmalade.
Upstairs is the Weekend’s taproom, offering a unique experience to locals. For starters, it has a 16-tap nitro draft system—the first of its kind in Cebu—jutting out from the wall behind the bar, itself made of a very attractive white Italian marble. Each gold tap dispenses a unique beer sourced from the best Cebuano, Manila, Palawan and even US craft breweries, some of which cannot be found anywhere else in the country. “The nitro system mixes CO2 and nitrogen gas to maintain the beer’s proper carbonation, preventing the beers from going flat or wild,” explains Jan. “Beer kegs are also stored in the walk-in chiller just behind the bar, maintaining an optimal temperature for ales.” This helps the craft beers, such as Stone Brewery’s much-sought-
after Ruination 2.0 and Ruinten, excellent despite the long time machine-less trip from the US to Cebu. Beers from Cebu’s very own Turning Wheels Brewery are also on tap. Beyond beers, Weekend also has a well-stocked bar, focusing less on quantity and highlighting quality instead, resulting in a curated collection that whisky and gin lovers will appreciate, and neophytes will grow to do so. it also provides an excellent assortment of cocktails you can’t find anywhere else. One thing the Weekend also likes to preserve is its ambiance. Keeping an authentic taproom experience, lighting and music is precisely controlled to keep the atmosphere conducive to conversation. It’s uncannily like the idea weekend, making Weekend a
befitting name for a place that opens people’s minds. “I came up with the name Weekend to evoke the feel of a weekend, the days at the end of the week that people look forward to, leaving their weekday worries behind,” shares Jan. “It’s a break from routine and monotony, and the daily hustle.” Bottom line: the Weekend is everything you want a great time to be: great food, drinks and atmosphere—everything you would associate with an awesome weekend, but now without having to wait for a Friday night or needing to hop into a time machine. Z Weekend The Greenery, Pope John Paul II Avenue, Kasambagan, Cebu City @theweekendph
SOPHIA SAYS... • The second floor is prime space for some photo ops. Just make sure you find a spot with the right lighting. • Its interiors feature concrete, wood and steel, so we recommend a look that features earth tones. Wear an outfit that takes reference from the industrial design, like this olive jumpsuit. You’ll fit right in! • It may sometimes be too bright during daytime, so take photos at a 45-degree angle to minimize the light that come into your lens.
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SNAP SP OTS
Love On Top
What used to be just another hill has been transformed into Terrazas de Flores, where blooms are celebrated in one of the most lush spaces in the city by Carlo Rivera
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e show love in so many different ways—one of which is by giving flowers, as was the case with businessman Yuri Barrameda. But more than just giving a bouquet, Yuri had a vision of sloping terrains with lush greenery and landscaped spaces. Tucked in the city’s highlands, Terrazas de Flores is a botanical garden that Yuri created as an expression of love for his three children, which took eight years to finish. “He considers this to be the love of his life,” says marketing manager Rhiz Arenas. Yuri had designed and curated the place, and took inspiration from the country’s own Banaue Rice Terraces. Now, the
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sprawling property has 127 species of flora planted across the 56 terraces. For its beautiful setting, Terrazas has created a buzz online as being one of the newest places for the public to visit in Cebu’s highlands. Although it’s just a 15-minute drive away from Cebu City, it feels a world away—Yuri understood the need for an open “green” space, where people could disconnect from their daily routines and reconnect with each other. There are plenty of spaces to admire the different species distributed around the property— secluded nooks, a viewing deck, a waterfall and benches along the path are the perfect places to marvel at nature. Looked after by
local farmers, the plants have been identified and catalogued by the Botanical Society of the University of San Carlos, and includes the now famous Celosia flowers that are native to Sirao. “The owner wanted the garden to be unique, and considered a Cebuano work of art,” Rhiz explains. This is the drive behind Terraza’s efforts to promote an appreciation of the arts, culture and ingenuity of the highlands community. With another hectare to develop and an art gallery to open soon, Terrazas intends to become
a venue to educate visitors about caring for Mother Earth. Even if the intention is to celebrate the beauty of nature, Terrazas de Flores brings a muchneeded breath of fresh air to the city life. And at sundown, as the sky turns orange against the skyline, it’s clear that this is a destination that celebrates nature just as much as it celebrates love. Z Terrazas de Flores Barangay Malubog, Cebu City Terrazas de Flores @terrazasdeflores.official
SOPHIA SAYS... • Behind the cafe is an archway with vines and flowers, the perfect backdrop for a romantic photo. • It’s also best to wear floral prints in a flowy silhouette to match with the vibe. It is a garden, after all. And don’t be afraid to wear bright colors so you become the visual focus of the photo. • Try to take the photo from a lower angle, to make yourself look taller in comparison to the surrounding plants.
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FE AT URE
Design by Design Interior designer Hannah Lim brings together modern style and functionality in her new office. by Shari Quimbo photography Nath Ybañez
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annah Lim is cheerful and excited as she leads us into her new office at the Park Centrale building in Cebu IT Park. Considering the amount of time and effort she’d put into creating the space—her own, as opposed to the many spaces she designs for her clients—her enthusiasm is completely understandable. Of course, being an interior designer worked to Hannah’s advantage when putting the office together. Her keen eye for details allowed her to inject personality into her working spaces. The years in the industry also helped her in choosing the brands that she brought in. “We tried to include a lot of the supplier we work with while we were coming up with the design,” she explains, naming Mobelhaus for cabinetry, and the glossy, candy red minirefrigerator from Smeg in the pantry. “Everyone’s well-represented,” she adds with a laugh. Although the office is relatively small, Hannah’s thoughtful considerations for the layout allowed her to maximize the floor area. Upon entering, visitors pass through a narrow hallway, with one wall covered in “invisible” storage. The hallway leads to the receptionist’s desk, with lattice-like detailing and Pantone storage bins sit under the Nova Lamp by Vito Selma. Instead of crowding the limited space with individual desks, Hannah opted for a long computer table running along one wall of the space and creates additional storage by adding shelving on top. “We kept it open because it gives it the feeling of more space,” Hannah explains. As much as it is functional, the space now also serves a decorative purpose—architecture books, photos, blueprints, among other things, add a sense of character to
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the space. Hannah’s office is just off the main work area and is kept more streamlined, save for some quirky pieces such as a Globe lamp. The conference room is at the end of the space, with large windows that look out onto the business district below. A wide white table takes up most of the space, and is flanked by upholstered chairs that Hannah had customized. “It’s so nice, because they’re the perfect size for me,” she jokes, referencing her petite frame. “I wanted to be able to show them exactly what materials, what colors, what sizes we’re talking about, so that we’d all be on the same page,” Hannah explains. Ergo, the shelves in the room are lined with colorful boxes that house a number of swatches and samples—stone and marble, tiles, carpets, curtains, fabrics, and a lot more. The painted chalkboard wall has a ruler on one end, with markers that indicate how big furniture is traditionally. With years of experience in creating stylish spaces for discerning clientele, it’s definitely no surprise that Hannah Lim was able to create
a beautiful working space for her design eteam. Bringing personality and style into a space dedicated to functionality isn’t necessarily asy— but if there was anyone who was up for, and could ultimately succeed in, the challenge, it would definitely be Hannah Lim. Z
Style
squad This month, we’re talking fashion. Set against the tranquil background of La Tierra del Chocolate at Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa, we bring together some of the city’s most stylish young personalities that come from different backgrounds—fashion designer Ixa Escario with her laidback, resortwear aesthetic; Rachel Rama, another young designer, who has a penchant for modern and streamlined shapes; accessories designer Neil Felipp San Pedro, whose bubbly personality often makes its way into his minaudieres and accessories line; Erika Ong, an interior stylist who presents a clean, classic take in her spaces; interior designer Gillian Uang, who also happens to be one of the earlier fashion bloggers in Cebu; and Vanessa East, another of the early blogging adaptors in the city who works in marketing in the hospitality industry. Together, they talk about trends and uniforms, early outfit rebellions, and why the wrong outfit can ruin the day. photography Nath Ybañez
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S T Y L E SQUAD
t he spread La Tierra del Chocolate
In a little wooded area inside the expansive property of Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa, an al fresco sanctuary is the venue for discovering and appreciating the Philippine cacao.
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h, this is so cute!” Neil San Pedro explains as we emerge from the canopied pathway and into the clearing that was Shangri-La Mactan’s La Tierra del Chocolate. Hidden from the rest of the resort by towering trees, the area has a heavy wooden table, a considerably sized plant box with sprouting cacao seedlings and a series of stations that chronicles the various stages of harvesting the cacao bean. General manager Rene D. Egle had learned about the rich traditions that came with the Philippine Cacao when he moved to Cebu, and believed the story was a platform on which they could build a new cultural experience for locals and tourists alike. Partnering with Racquel Choa and The Chocolate Chamber, he offers an immersive experience that celebrates local chocolate. The Chocolate Sommeliers, who had led us from the lobby to the garden, gave us a tour of the Viaje Por
El Jardin del Cacao (which literally translates to Traveling in the Garden of Cacao). It starts with Harvesting, although they note that as of now, Shangri-La’s actual crops are still too young to harvest. They do, however, show how the cacao pods are split open, and the beans scooped out. We then move over to Fermentation, which traditionally has the beans dried under the sun, and then Roasting in a large wok. After that, Winnowing is for removing the outer shell of the bean, leaving behind the cacao nib—the group was invited to sample the tiny nib, which had a rich, nutty flavor. Last comes the Poundings, where beans are crushed in a mortar and pestle until it turns into a paste that is molded into the tablea. Seeing the process behind its creation certainly made us appreciate our chocolate high tea, which highlighted three different kinds of sikwate (local hot chocolate)— the full-bodied version from The Chocolate Chamber in Cebu, the light Dalareich Tableya from Bohol, and the medium-bodied Malagos from Davao. These were perfectly paired with biko (glutinous rice cake) and slices of ripe mangoes for a truly Filipino gastronomic experience, and was the perfect accompaniment to the afternoon’s light conversation. Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa Punta Engaño Road, Lapu-Lapu City (032) 231 0288 www.shangri-la.com/cebu/mactanresort
t he crowd Erika Ong
Interior stylist “I gravitate towards classic pieces. I don’t like the trendy ones because everyone’s wearing it.”
Neil Felipp San Pedro
Vanessa East PR and marketing professional, and fashion blogger “I’m okay with people who want to be laidback. Thats fine, but I want to wear heels.”
Accessories designer “I’m just too lazy to think. Now, I just want to feel comfortable. it’s just basic, classic, and I know it will never go out of fashion.”
Ixa Escario Fashion designer “It’s not just about the design or the style, it’s about comfort and how the clothes affect your mood.”
Gillian uang
Interior designer, visual merchandising head, and fashion blogger
“If I end up wearing something I don’t like, it really affects my whole day. Other people might think it’s shallow, but really it’s just how I feel.”
Rachel Rama Fashion designer “It’s about being unapologetic for what you’re wearing. If it’s your style, then it’s yours style.”
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t he discussion Zee: Let’s start with asking, what is fashion for you? Neil: I think fashion is basically a personal extension of who you are. It can be depending on your lifestyle, or how you feel on that day. If you want to dress down like Mark Zuckerberg, or you want to dress up to the point where you’re like an Iris Apfel— which I wish we could dress up like. Gillian: I think also it’s about what you do during the day, and how the clothes that you wear adjust to the type of things that you do daily. Like, for me and Erika, we usually go to construction sites and do measurements on the spot, so we go for functionality. But then we have to rush to a furniture store or a client meeting, so we also have to look presentable. Rachel: For me, it’s about being unapologetic for what you’re wearing. If it’s your style, then it’s your style.
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You don’t have to think about what people are going to say about you or what you’re wearing. Vanessa: I grew up on a very small island, it was a mining community. Everybody wore the same thing, and we could only go to the city every weekend. So fashion was a very foreign thing to me, but I remember I wore pink shoes to school. I would lie to my teacher and tell her we didn’t have enough money to buy black shoes, even if I had two pairs at home. Those were the kinds of stories my lola would tell me—she would say I was so arte growing up. But I wasn’t being maarte. It was just me wanting to do what I wanted. People have always said that I was so weird, so I didn’t associate fashion with me. I was just weird. Zee: Does anyone else have early fashion memories? Gillian: I remember this very
clearly. My mom told me to wear a denim jumper to SM—SM had just opened at the time. I was eight or nine and I didn’t want to wear a jumper, so I wore a fluffy red party dress. That was my fashion moment. Erika: I grew up with three brothers, so I love anything that has a masculine spirit. I’m comfortable wearing baggy blazers or baggy white shirts. I also think my dad is very stylish—not fashionable, but stylish. I see him wearing a black or red shirt with white pants all the time. That’s his signature look, and I grew up very close to him so it became innate for me too. Vanessa: I always feel like there’s someone who influences you. I think for me, it was my mom. I remember her nail polish, red lipstick. Neil: My grandmother. She used to go to all these events. She would wear these pieces—I don’t know if it was
lace or embroidery, but it was really beautiful and delicate. And she did everything with such grace, matching her outfits to her bag and huge-ass pearls. She was, and still is, one of my most favorite muses. Ixa: For me, it’s my mom. I would dress her up whenever she went out ballroom dancing. I’d be there in her room, wearing her sandals, and she would ask me what I thought. I think that’s where I picked up the touch of masculinity, because my mom was so sexy and I didn’t like her going out in a strapless dress or something. So I’d get my dad’s coat and ask her to wear it, and she’d say, yeah it works. I think that’s where it all started—my mom is like the Mary Kate Olsen of my life. Zee: And from there, how were able to develop your own personal style? Vanessa: I really don’t think it’s a
Neil: Floral shirts! I had a lot of floral shirts—I looked so tropical! Now, if you notice, it’s all plains. I definitely agree with Gillian about the trial and error. I understand the concept of Mark Zuckerberg, how he just wears the same outfit every day. I’ve been stuck with all black, all white, or all gray. It’s just so tiring to think. I remember how we used to plan all our outfits the day before, but nowadays, I just want to take a good bath and sleep. Ixa: For me, I don’t have a constant style, but I’m not afraid of colors and I love oversized shirts. I don’t really shop, like my brother Rei. We’re so busy making clothes for other people. My “mall” is my dad’s closet. This is my dad’s polo that I cut. I can get some from my brother too. I just mix and match.
SOUND BYTES One piece of clothing you use all the time? Vanessa: A white button-down. You can wear it in so many ways. Rachel: A gray shirt. If you were an accessory, what would you be? Neil: A neckerchief. Erika: A watch. A current trend you like? Gillian: That loose on loose thing. Ixa: Yes! You should know that you can feel sexy in loose clothing. It’s fun.
“I think you really just wear what you’re comfortable with, and the confidence will follow. Then people will say, yeah you look good!” - Rachel Rama conscious effort. I don’t even want to look at my old photos. Gillian: Me too! I feel like it’s trial and error all the way. I was telling Vanessa that I don’t want to look at those old photos of ours—where we pile on all the prints, all the accessories. It’s a constant evolution. Zee: What did you use to wear that you’re embarrassed of now? AUG -SEP 2017 zeelife s tylecebu.com
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and advertising. Like proportions in interiors—it has an outlet in fashion, like matching a narrow waist with a wide shoulder. I guess that’s how I started to understand and appreciate fashion more. Zee: What do you guys think about Cebuanos’ style now? Ixa: it’s very safe, very laidback. But there’s a kind of laidback that’s still stylish. Vanessa: I’m okay with people who want to be laidback. That’s fine—but I want to wear heels. Neil: I have to admit that Cebu’s style is much better now than it was five to ten years ago. Gillian: I think we have more choices now. Ixa: It’s social media also. A few years ago, not everyone could afford magazines like Vogue. Now people can - Gillian Uang find inspiration easily and go a little extra on their outfits because it’s like, Like Picasso—he looks so good with his oh, I want to dress like a Kardashian. don’t even have to buy the trend, it Neil: The accessibility of information red cropped pants and white top. So it might already be sitting in your closet. has changed everybody nowadays. could start from there. Zee: Where do you usually find You have to make sure that the outfit Gillian: Actually Erika’s right. I the inspiration for how you dress is Instagram-able. guess that’s why I started my blog, though? Like for Gillian and Erika, Zee: How do you feel your style because I found out during my studies since you’re both in interiors, does helps you in your everyday life? that some of the principles of design that somehow find its way into Vanessa: I think it really is just affects all the other design aspects. It how you dress? also works with fashion, or multimedia for me. People will say, oh you’ll Gillian: I think it can go both ways, comfortable in a T-shirt, and I’m like, no. I’ll be sad in a T-shirt. Comfort is really subjective. I won’t feel comfortable in a T-shirt, but good for you if you do. Neil: Mine has to be a perfect balance between comfort and my preferred aesthetic. Like a certain comfortable shoe is just a big no-no—Crocs! I don’t care how comfortable that is, but it’s the ugliest thing I’ve ever seen. Rachel: I think you really just wear what you’re comfortable with, and the confidence will follow. Then people will say, yeah you look good! Gillian: I don’t know about everybody else at the table, but if I end up wearing something I don’t like, it really affects my whole day. I’ll be so bothered, to the extent that I can’t work. Other people might think it’s shallow, but really it’s just how I feel. Z
Erika: I gravitate towards classic pieces. I don’t like the trendy ones because everyone’s wearing it. Gillian: But I think that’s the great thing about styling. You can pick any trend, and then incorporate it as your own. Or you can pick out a classic and transition it into a trend to make it fit your body type or style, or where you’re going that day. Sometimes you
but it depends. Sometimes I meet a client and I’m like, whoa, she has great clothes. I need some styling tips from her. Or the other way around—I’ll be like, let me help you out. Erika: Or when I look for interior inspiration, I go to the classic ones like Frank Lloyd Wright. When I research, I look up the person and I’d see their photo and be like, their outfit is nice.
“But I think that’s the great thing about styling. You can pick any trend, and then incorporate it as your own. Or you can pick out a classic and transition it into a trend to make it fit your body type or style, or where you’re going that day.”
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The Next Big Things Zee Lifestyle talks to the biggest names in Cebu fashion and takes a look at the current landscape of the fashion industry and how it could be hindering the search for Cebu’s promising new talents by Shari Quimbo photography Oliver Echevarria locale Trattoria da Gianni
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Romero Vergara and Oj Hofer
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ho is the most promising young designer in Cebu?” The question hung over the air after fashion designer and Zee Lifestyle fashion editor Oj Hofer asked the question. The group was gathered in the private dining room of Trattoria da Gianni, enjoying the authentic Italian fare while pondering over their response. To be fair, there was no assemblage of people who were better fit to discuss the subject. Gathered around the large wooden table were the high council of Cebu fashion, if there was ever any—in attendance were fashion designers Cary Santiago, Philip Rodriguez, Jun Escario and Arcy Gayatin, each an influential figure in the industry; visionary accessories designer Doro Barandino, whose pieces are selling in shops in LA; makeup artist Romero Vergara, who has made over several of the Philippines’ beautiful faces during his long-running tenure; and Eva Gullas, the publisher of Zee Lifestyle, a publication that has been an informal vanguard of what’s going on in fashion for the past 20 years. Jun Escario was the first to break the silence with a joking tone:
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“Naa ba? (Is there any?)” Everyone bursts out laughing. “Naa uy (of course there is),” both Arcy and Cary exclaim. Cary pauses and adds, “Actually Jun, that’s the right question. We don’t really see these young designers now. They don’t even do fashion shows anymore.” Everyone nods at the noticeable difference. Just five years
“In Cebu, no one is fiercely fashionable. Women dress for comfort.” - Jun Escario ago, invitation to various fashion shows and events would come in at least once a month, varying from large-scale solo designer presentations, to collaborative shows that bring several names together. In 2012 alone, Zee Lifestyle staged two large ones: Furne One’s fashionable homecoming, a week-long affair that involved jewelry talks, a designer bazaar, and an exhibit; and Jun Escario’s 20th anniversary show that transformed the Oakridge Pavilion into a red cathedral.
Arcy Gayatin
THE ISSUE OF FAST FASHION These days, events like that have been limited to a few every year, and the majority of them have featured the influx of international brands that have entered the market. “I guess the biggest disruptor for you is H&M and Zara,” Eva mused. “Not really,” Cary argues. “It’s not totally high-end. For example, if you’d pass by Jun’s shop, you really stop and take a look inside. The pieces are unique.” Certainly individual style suffers to an extent when in the realm of fast fashion. Philip shares, “It doesn’t matter if you go to Europe or somewhere else—if you buy it in Zara, it’s exactly the same everywhere in the world. They’re generic.” “But it’s amazing how fast they can interpret fashion trends,” Eva points out. “Ralph Lauren used to be the richest designer in the world, but now?” Arcy shrugs empathically. “You know why? Because Zara is very fast fashion. They can translate what they see on the runway in a couple of weeks. So many designer boutiques have closed down because they can’t keep up.” There’s no denying, of course, that fast fashion has transformed
the landscape of the retail clothing industry. Once editors post their reviews of the major fashion shows— which are practically on the spot now, thanks to the digital age—these brands roll out a massive inventory that boasts the latest insider-approved trends. Asymmetrical collars? Ruffled sleeves? Palazzo pants? If you see them on the runway, chances are you’d see them in H&M two weeks later. Naturally, the risk that comes with it is, as Philip mentioned, you end up looking like everything else. I know several fashion-forward ladies who have resorted to thrifting and vintage shopping in the hopes of finding that one unique piece that will set them apart from everyone else. Therein lies the real value of designer clothing—as Eva points out, “The edge with designers is that they can create something that’s just for you.” “No Ev, it’s all about the fit,” says Cary. “It’s different when a designer gets to mold it to your body.” “If you approached a French designer, you can still end up with the same piece as someone because you can only take from the collection,” Arcy argues. “Don’t tell me Karl Lagerfeld would sit down with you and sketch up a dress just for you. No way—no matter how rich you are, you have to take from the collection. It’s just over here that we really sketch, and they can still complain that we’re too expensive.” CEBU’S FASHION INDUSTRY The statement brings up another issue that young designers face. Although the city is home to a number of truly stylish individuals, the collective level of appreciation for fashion isn’t yet what it should be. As Jun mentioned in last year’s tete-a-tete, “In Cebu, no one is fiercely fashionable. Women dress for comfort.” That climate is what young designers face when they want to break into the fashion industry. According to Edward Castro, the magazine’s resident stylist and a professor at the Fashion Institute of Design and Arts in Cebu, the pool of talent is considerable. “It’s an eclectic bunch, for sure. They come from different walks of life, they have different styles, but they all have one thing in common—raw potential.” “I see the fashion industry as a community of creatives who are working individually on their
The food
Trattoria da Gianni It’s no secret that the Italians take cooking and eating quite seriously, and that oftentimes food is a familial affair. The same goes for the Guidicellis—father and daughter team Gianluca and Giorgia Guidicelli had put up the restaurant in honor of their patriarch Gianni, who had moved to the Philippines in the 1970s and had a passion for whipping up his own dishes in the kitchen. When Gianni passed away a few years back, his son Gianluca thought about sharing with the rest of the city, the authentic Italian fare that he had enjoyed growing up at home. With the help of his father’s helpers—who had picked up more than a few things from spending time with Gianni in the kitchen—he came up with the hearty offerings of Trattoria da Gianni. Italian favorites like pasta are on the menu, but it’s created with freshly made noodles and homemade sauces. In lieu of pizzas, Trattoria invites diners to open their meals with slices of bruschetta that can be
served with a wide range of toppings. The restaurant also gives consideration for any dietary restrictions—when we’d discussed the dinner, we requested some vegetarian choices for some of our guests, and Giorgia whipped up a menu for the evening that celebrated various flavors while satisfying all preferences. The dinner started off with lighter fare such as the Caprese Salad, Portobello Mushrooms, and varieties of Bruschetta. On the other hand, meat eaters were satisfied by the Osso Buco and various pastas, including the constant crowd pleaser: the lasagna. Dinner was accompanied by fresh lemonade and the house wine, the perfect stimulator for the evening’s interesting discussion. Crossroads Mall, Banilad 0977 842 2786, 0998 846 4996 @trattoriadagiannicebu @trattoriadagianni
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The next set
The Accessories Designer: Neil Felipp When it came down to picking the accessories designer, the decision was practically unanimous. “He’s going to be mentioned in the next Crazy Rich Asians book,” Arcy quips, referring to how the author of the serial bestseller Kevin Kwan had admired a Neil Felipp clutch during a visit to Manila. It’s not surprising though, considering Neil Felipp pieces tend to be conversation pieces all their own. From the brass monkeys of the Simian collection or the miniature tea party set up on a clutch for the Antoinette the Mad collection, each creation has a personality, or at least a good story behind it—Antoinette the Mad, for one, was inspired by a visit to Versailles.
Dress by Mike Yapching
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The Makeup Artist: Janice Barillo “Janice the Beauty Fairy,” Romero said almost immediately when asked who Cebu should look out for when it came to makeup. He was referring to Janice’s handles on social media—it was only fitting, considering how she’s able to create looks that highlight a woman’s best features while still making it look completely natural. She had apprenticed for Romero, and worked with Zee Lifestyle on several collaborations in the past few years. Since she started out in the industry, her Janice the Beauty Fairy brand has gained a group of loyal clients who trust her with their faces. In fact, when Mia Arcenas had recently tied the knot, she flew Janice out to France to do her bridal makeup.
Dress by Celine Borromeo
respective brands,” adds Bree Esplanada, who has dressed blogger Ixa Perez, Queen Philippines candidate Trixie Andrews, among others. But he admits to finding a caveat. “However, if the industry really exists, it is mainly favored towards designers with strong social connections.” This might be the reason why some have chosen to pursue a career in Manila instead, where they feel people are more receptive to conceptual design. “The industry in Cebu is fixed with established aesthetics and standards that can’t be shook anymore,” says Yves Camingue, another former Zee stylist who went on to be a contestant on Project Runway Philippines. These days, his cool street-style collections have been seen on local celebrities and various fashion spreads. “In Manila, there are different strokes for different folks. One can discover his niche and potential in Manila.” Edward begs to differ though. “Personally, I think Cebu is very embracing and nurturing of new talents. I’m happy to see some of my students already getting clients on a regular basis. That just goes to prove that the Cebuano community can be a progressive community,” he asserts.
Coat by Jul Oliva
Jun Escario
Cary Santiago
Philip Rodriguez
Jun’s sister Ixa Escario agrees that though there may be less opportunities, this can actually help in developing their unique identity as a designer—on her end, she’s chosen resort wear and swimsuits as her bread and butter. “I get my inspiration from this city—how it has evolved and grown over the years. It’s underestimated, but never overrated,” she shares. “You have to start from the
Doro Barandino
big thing. Which leads us back to Oj’s question: who is the most promising young designer? “Jul Oliva,” Cary offered up, to which Jun adds, “Yes, she’s very experimental.” A former protege of furniture designer Kenneth Cobonpue, Jul Oliva had learned to sew as a teenager, but started out with product design before she decided to pursue a career
“Actually, [asking if there are any promising young designers] is a good question. We don’t really see these young designers now. They don’t even do fashion shows anymore.” - Cary Santiago bottom and work your way up to show what you’ve got. As my city grows, I grow together with it.” THE CITY’S NEW CROP So although there is a small exodus of talent, Cebu has a creative pool deep enough to constantly produce someone who could become the next
in fashion fully. It might have turned out to be a good step—the alternative aspect of design, and the tutelage of an internationally renowned creative, expanded her imagination. Jul’s designs are certainly forwardthinking. From creating an intricate hand-woven pattern with fabrics for a modern take on the terno, to a shaggy
shrug in contrasting colors, the unconventional take on materials and play in texture make each Jul Oliva creation a true conversation piece. Arcy gives her own vote, “I like Mike Yapching.” With his own polished take on modern dressing, Mike Yapching had been chosen as the Filipino contender for the Singapore-based fashion competition Audi Star Challenge in 2011—at the time, he was still in the middle of finishing up his studies. Since then, he has been churning up sophisticated party dresses under his eponymous line, and creates ready-to-wear pieces for an international brand based in the Mactan Export Processing Zone. It’s a consideration that Mike doesn’t take lightly. “Some of the greats in the Philippine fashion industry come from Cebu, and it is such an overwhelming feeling to be considered by them as one of the most promising Cebuano fashion designers. It is an honor and a privilege to be mentored by one of the Cebuano greats, Edwin Ao,” he shares. “I am flattered, yet there is the pressure to always deliver and live up to the expectations of such amazing and inspiring people. I could only hope to become one among them in the future.” Moving on, Cary adds, “There’s also Celine Borromeo.” Another alum of Project Runway Philippines (she made it into the top three of her season), Celine Borromeo advocates classic feminine dressing with a twist—oversized blazers and feminine silhouettes done in tweed and pinstripes play up on androgynous style. The designer had taken up a position on Josie Natori’s team, and is now based in Manila. “I’ve worked really hard to build my name in the industry, and I don’t intend on stopping anytime soon. It is not easy to be recognized, especially if you are a simple designer like myself. I don’t do avant garde. I don’t stand out in that way,” Celine explains. “But what I do is make very polished, classy and modern pieces people of all ages can appreciate. To be able to stand out and be recognized for what I do best by Cebu’s most prominent designers means I’m on the right path.” AUG -SEP 2017 zeelife s tylecebu.com
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Clothes by Bree Esplanada
Clothes by Edward Castro
Matching set by Ixa Escario
Dress by Yves Camingue
The next set A COMMUNITY OF CREATIVES It seems like the challenges that up-and-coming designers face have an upside—talent and drive are completely different things, and the people who do not persevere in pursuing the profession could likely give up in the face of limitations. In the end, we’re left with talents that we can truly call promising, the ones who took on the arduous road with a fervor that matched their creativity. For his part, Mike sees the competition as something that helps him work harder. “In my years of working in Cebu as a fashion designer, I can say that, with a little push and maximum determination, Cebuano designers and brands could become globally competitive.” Edward certainly thinks so when he observes the students year after year. “With a bit of time and accumulated experience, and of course unwavering passion, they will be able to find their own voice and rightfully take their place in the industry,” he shares. “The fashion industry is tough, and it’s crucial to earn your stripes before anything else—it’s hard, but not impossible.”
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All that said, the dinner with our high council of designers ends on a hopeful note, that the formidable conditions of the Cebuano fashion industry can help mold a new crop of talent that in itself can be the collective next big thing. To those hoping to rise above, Oj offers three pieces of advice: “Know your product—bring something that has your imprimatur to the fashion design world. Don’t just copy, acquire the skills to be a competent designer. Do the dirty work, don’t just draw. Recognize your strength and weaknesses, and build your own unique aesthetic.” Second, “Have a specific vision—more than having a fashion philosophy, what is your vision? Be clear about who your clients are and where you want to take your business,” Oj continues. Lastly, “Work on realizing that vision—success in fashion means 1% inspiration and 99% action. Act on your vision until it becomes a reality.” To simple answer Jun’s question: it might take some looking into, but the promising young designers are definitely out there— naa jud diay. Z
THE MALE MODEL: HANS VELANO With his boy-next-door good looks and muscular frame, it’s no surprise that designers love dressing Hanz Velano. Under the Model’s Association of Cebu, he was second runner up in Mister United Continents Philippines, and Mister Teen Model Philippines in 2015. When he’s not posing in front of the cameras, he’s finishing up his Marketing Management degree at the University of San Carlos. The FEMALE MODEL: ENA VELASCO A graduate from the College of Medicine at the Southwestern University, Ena Velasco has been booking modeling jobs for her statuesque figure and wide-eyed look. Her extensive modeling portfolio includes various campaigns and fashion shows, as well as notable titles—she was crowned Masskara Queen in 2002, Miss Southwestern University in 2014, and Miss Mandaue 2015.
PROFILES
From unconventional dressmakers to sunglasses designed by an opthalmologist, Zee Lifestyle talks to the personalities who are making a mark in the fashion scene
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Cut and Style Tatah Costales brings together ready-to-wear and custom-made designs in a new kind of retail that’s aptly called Alter to Enhance by Carlo Rivera photography Jesse Jake Daan makeup Janice Barillo
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atah Costales is standing in front of the mirror with one of her store associates, trying to decide if the purple blouse she’d picked out for the shoot might be too long on her. “Can we try pinning it?” she asks, folding the hem to the length she wanted before laughing with a shrug. “You know what, just give me the scissors. I’ll cut it.” The exchange isn’t something you’d usually hear inside a boutique—seriously, have you ever heard someone in a store offer to cut up something off the rack?—but that’s exactly why Tatah decided to put up her brand. A.T.E. by Tatah was created as an answer to frustrating shopping trips that involve finding a beautiful piece that doesn’t fit quite right. “I saw an unmet fashion need, and thought of a possible solution,” she shares. “I jumped into it, and the rest is history.” A.T.E. stands for Alter to Enhance, which epitomizes the store’s main concept. “It’s neither a tailoring shop, nor a regular boutique. We are a combination of both,” she explains. “We make clothes—ready-to-wear that may be altered to a size smaller, shortened length, or tweaked to a style or preference.” Preference is something of importance. “We didn’t use ‘alter to fit,’ because not everything that fits you, suits you,” Tatah says. The brand is also an acronym of her family’s first names—her only son AJ, herself Tatah, and her husband Edgar. More importantly, though, it also plays on the Filipino endearment for older sister, which gives the brand an almost intimate touch. “It connotes Filipino
culture and respect, and the female gender, because we only do clothes for women,” she pauses, “for now.” Of course, Tatah didn’t actually start up her career in fashion. She has a degree in hotel and restaurant management from the University of the Philippines-Cebu, and was an insurance agent for years. She’d gotten the idea to venture into clothing after selling to prospects in the textile and tailoring industries. The drive to succeed was certainly there. In one night, she had learned the basics of dressmaking and looked to familial ties for marketing—she would make pieces for her mom Virginia, who would wear them when going out with friends and meet inquiries with the news that her daughter was going into the tailoring business. From there, she took dress orders from family and friends, and eventually sent herself to the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York for a summer course on the business of fashion. To show how serious she was about her chosen path, she also took a course on styling in the University of the Arts in London. The opportunity also broadened up her horizons and gave her an in-depth look at Europe’s sophisticated style. Her pursuits to learn definitely paid off—she soon opened a shop in Mabolo, followed by the one in Axis earlier this year. A.T.E. by Tatah has already gained a good number of fans for offering stylish silhouettes in the best possible fit. “Each A.T.E. piece gives an emotional connection with the customer,” she says, sharing that the best part of starting out her shop was the bright smiles of women coming from the fitting room.
Shopping at A.T.E. by Tatah is a completely different experience. Customers can look around the racks to find pieces that they like, and are encouraged to try them on. From there, an associate will discuss the different alterations they can do based on the preference and body type—Tatah understands that even just a slight shortening of sleeve length can do wonders for creating a better silhouette. After that, a team of sewers quickly work through the garment, which can be ready for pickup in as less as 15 minutes. Cutting and styling is something that Tatah does almost inherently, and she admits that she doesn’t particularly enjoy sketching designs. “I work better when I have a dress in front of me, and a pair of scissors in my hand. I can just cut it up into the shape that I like,” she shares. She mostly goes with classic silhouettes for the rack, although if a classic piece doesn’t sell, she sits down and thinks about how to redo it to make it trendier, such as turning a plain shift dress into an asymmetrical top. Considering the success she’s found with A.T.E., it’s easy to forget that Tatah is actually a late bloomer in the fashion industry, although that’s something she finds pride in. “I always remind myself that I can’t be reckless with the opportunity I’m given,” she says. “It’s not every day that one discovers a new skill at the age of 42.” Z
Villa Aurora, Kasambagan, Cebu City Axis Entertainment Ave., Escario St., Cebu City ATE by Tatah
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Bag Lady
Choosing Cebuano manufacturers to handcraft her intricate pieces using metals, resin and rattan, designer Victoria Yabut introduces two bag lines that feature a fun character matched with sophistication. by Shari Quimbo photography and makeup Arnauld
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ictoria Yabut smiles graciously as the team gushed over the collection of bags and minaudieres that were unwrapped for the photo shoot (and by team, I really mean just me). “I’ve always loved bags and fashion,” admits Victoria. “Growing up, I used to watch my mom get ready for work and events, and it was just something I grew up around. Rows of bags and belts and shoes and glasses in every shade.” The Manila-based designer had flown to Cebu in preparation for her brand’s first launch in the City, which may come as a bit of a surprise considering her pieces are manufactured here. “If I wanted high-end and great craftsmanship, I knew I had to come to Cebu. Cebuanos are known for this,” Victoria explains. “I wasn’t wrong, because you will see their fine work in every piece that I have.” A strict standard for quality is enforced in the production of each of Victoria’s pieces. Every finished bag is inspected, and made from only the finest available materials. Her current collections took ten months to complete, which included finding inspiration in different places. “Ideas just come to me. I am inspired by other people’s work, may it be furniture or fabric, weaves, art galleries,” she shares. “I start by drawing and, as of late, I have started painting my work on canvas. That way, you have a feel for the colors you want to use when I make it into a bag. I like touches of gold. Gold makes things more dramatic and expensive.” An element of glamour definitely prevails in Victoria’s VSY Collection, a sophisticated line that features an array of handcrafted clutches. Playing on color and texture,
each piece is a fashion statement of its own—some of my personal favorites include a minaudiere featuring colorful patterns in resin and a black and gold zebra print. The designer’s most memorable piece, though, is her very first. “It would have to be the T’nalak clutch,” she says, referring to the local fabric from Davao. “It’s a strong, powerful design. I was completely happy with how it turned out, and it just gave me the desire to keep coming up with more designs.” But more than being satisfied with its aesthetic, Victoria has a deeper reason for being attached to this specific piece. “It’s a tribute to the women weavers of the T’boli tribe. I guess it would be a good representation of single mothers—that life and their children have made them strong. That there is beauty in adversity.” Being a single mother herself, this is a statement that is close to Victoria’s heart. “In the back of my mind, it’s always my son that I think about. It’s leading by example that teaches them the most,” she says of the way motherhood inspires her. “He wants to be an architect. Someday, maybe he can join me in designing as well. I would love him to do something to complement his being an architect.” Working with T’nalak also shows off Victoria’s other passion— working with local materials. “Being Filipino, you are also part of that story,” she explains. “Indigenous materials are my favorite, mostly because you’re bringing attention back to the Philippines.” The effort to use local materials also comes to play in Victoria’s latest brand Vicsy. The line features a range of woven rattan bags shaped like fruits—the mango one, for example, is painted yellow and
is a sunny accessory perfect for our tropical island. “I really wanted to focus on indigenous materials, but in a fun way, with bright colors to draw attention to what we usually bypass. Oftentimes, people take for granted the things they see everyday. I wanted to bring attention back to it in a fun and whimsical way.” Creating, it seems, is an innate part of Victoria’s personality. Besides designing bags, she also paints and cooks. In fact, she is a chef by trade, graduating from the California Culinary Academy and Enderun, and had previously launched a baked goods line. Although that might not be completely related to bag design, she feels the principles that she picked up does help her in the process. “In the kitchen, I’m very quick. In my head, I know exactly what to combine. Sometimes I think it’s very innate,” she muses. “Once you master the basics, you have the confidence to deviate by removing and adding, and just coming out with a completely different dish. So in terms of hard work, I’m prepared. In terms of design, an artist will never run out.” Considering all she does, we had to ask: what is a normal day like for her? “I wake up and have coffee, and check on my two English bulldogs, Marcus and Monty. By that time, my son Diego is already awake so I check on him. I make sure that everything is in order for the day, the menus are planned and my house is OCD-level clean. I then go to mass, and work begins,” Victoria narrates, before giving another smile. “I can’t call it work, though, because I love what I do. I can get lost in art.” Z
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PROFIL E S
The Vision See Things Eyewear introduces a line of prescription glasses and sunglasses that highlight chic design while considering good eye health. by Paul Adolfo Yu photography and makeup Arnauld
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ince its creation in the beginning of this year, See Things Eyewear has been gaining a following online for their collection of on-trend frames that flatter various face shapes. Those factors might seem like a given for any brand that ventures out into eyewear, but this one has something that gives it an extra boost in credibility—it has an ophthalmologist behind it.
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Practicing ophthalmologist Charles Ting had been wanting to create a line of good quality and reasonably priced prescription eyewear for his patients, and finally he’d decided to take the venture together with his wife, physician Maan Briones-Ting, and long-time friend Bruce Sy. “Bruce has always been looking for a business that he could start, while Charles always thought that there should be quality
frames that his charity patients can afford,” says Maan. After designing their first line of glasses, they had initially made it available to optical shops, but presenting the line to their friends brought on a different idea. “Almost all of our friends wanted to buy it, which made us realize that there was a good market for selling them ourselves,” the team shared. “We naturally expanded to sunglasses,
still with the objective of offering trendy and classic pieces, while maintaining our affordability.” The shift created the need for strengthening the brand, and the trio was up for the challenge. In fact, they show their creativity in their name— the team brought together their last names Sy and Ting for an interesting juxtaposition. To make their collaboration even more superfluous, each person has their own task to take care of. “I’m in charge of conceptualizing designs, while Charles guides us in terms of the frames’ structure and quality,” Maan explains. “I also help out in marketing and sales, as I’m in charge of the brand’s social media presence.” “With my background, I’m in charge of sales and marketing direction,” adds Bruce, who works in real estate and has a degree in Developmental Studies. He admits, though, that the start-up does require them stepping into each others’ job descriptions. “With this team, we overlap each others’ roles as we help out in all aspects, which works because we all have full-time jobs outside of this.” Inspiration comes by way of classic frames that have stood the test of time—wayfarers, aviators and more—but See Things Eyewear put
their own spin on the designs to give them a trendy look. “Our frames for prescription eyewear are named after our friends, so we had their different face shapes and profiles in mind when we were coming up with the different designs,” Maan shares. Their sunglasses, on the other hand, are named after cities, so the lifestyle of these destinations inspired those shapes. It seems that their formula for creativity is working, with See Things Eyewear having already released four batches in their six months of operations. “Each batch is conceptualized with consideration to consumer feedback and current trends in mind,” they explain, but they emphasize that being fashionable still isn’t their primary goal. “We have an eye doctor on board, so all designs are carefully crafted with your eyes’ anatomy and comfort in mind,” says the team. The steady growth is an inspiring one for those who hope to start their own business, and the trio has some pieces of advice for budding entrepreneurs. “There are so many aspects in starting any business,” they admit. “Don’t be afraid to ask for help and advice from those who already know what they’re doing.” It’s easy to understand why See Things Eyewear’s chic frames are finding success. But of course, it’s more than that—the team behind the brand offers a way to take care of your eyesight issues without having to lose sight of style. Z See Things Eyewear @see.things.eyewear
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PROFIL E S
Piece by Piece In an industry where perfectly recreated prototypes are a norm, the quirky imperfection of Strozzi’s pieces might prove that handmade is the new luxury.
by Carlo Rivera photography Ezekiel Sullano
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trozzi Abacel Rosende greets us with a big smile and an exuberant greeting as we reached her home, which sits on top of a hill in Lilo-an. She has a cat trailing behind her— she tells us she has 12 more, some of which she’d “catnapped” from the streets. All things considered, it’s not surprising that close friends call her Meow and that cats figure prominently in the designs of her eponymous accessory line. With a growing online following and various fashion spreads featuring creations, Strozzi’s pieces are just as packed with personality as she is—bracelet charms shaped like hot-air balloons, an octopus-shaped brooch, and a sizable necklace that looks almost like armor. It is a brand for those who want to stand out, while showing off their playful side. The collection is made from sterling silver or brass, with inlays of semi-precious stones. Working with different materials have always been a passion for Strozzi—“Melted crayons run in my veins,” she laughs, referring to the many times she’s worked with what she could find to create something. Accessories, however, weren’t her first love. “Honestly, I wanted to become a fashion designer, and to
have my own line of garments,” she admits. But as she earned her degree in Interior Design at the University of San Carlos, she realized that her love was crafts. She took classes related to arts and crafts, going into sculpting and painting instead of fashion design and sewing. In 2005, Strozzi’s parents encouraged her to enroll in a prototype-making metal workshop with the Cebu Fashion Accessories Manufacturers + Exporters. An intensive ten-month hands-on training period under German metal artist Ingrid Haufe proved that this was the right path for her. From there, Strozzi took a job at a furniture company, and formed friendships with other accessories designers in the country. In fact, she was on the team for the erstwhile trade show Cebu NEXT, creating different art and furniture installments. “I also ventured into photography,” she adds. But even then, she knew that accessories were her passion. In 2008, she launched her line on ETSY, an e-commerce platform that sells everything handmade, and wanted to reinforce the brand’s penchant for color, personality and animal figures. “It’s about craftswomanship,” Strozzi says with a smile. Having converted their family home into a factory of sorts, the
designer is involved in all aspects of the process—from acquiring the materials and coming up with the designs, to cutting and polishing the stones and metal materials. She knows how to do everything herself, and the equipment used in manufacturing were custom-made by her father. “It’s not just jewelry. It’s the art of telling a story through symbols. It’s creating a visual expression of a person’s uniqueness,” she answers when we ask why it was so important to keep everything handmade. And although she creates her own collections, a bulk of Strozzi’s time is dedicated to custom-made orders, such as personalized wedding giveaways. “It’s a very interesting experience, and I like to celebrate their style and appreciate their sense of creativity.” It’s almost democratic the way Strozzi creates her line, but considering her inherent friendliness, it’s just what we expected. More than producing accessories, she is hoping to build a movement back to handmade, and the perfectly imperfect. Perhaps in a time when technology can produce flawless versions of the same thing over and over again, there is a certain luxury to having a piece created by hand especially for you. Z @strozzimeowvelloushandmade
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Shop Drop With its selection of curated products from local brands, Urban Lifestyle hopes to bring a new kind of shopping to the local retail industry. by Gab Arcenas photography Jesse Jake Daan hair and makeup Romero Vergara
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harmaine De Leon and Ruby Pansoy are no strangers to the world of business and retail. The duo, together with a few friends, decided to start up Pop District Bazaar, a venue that gave promising local businesses the opportunity to introduce their creations to a bigger market. The event saw much success—it’s held three times a year and now approaches its second anniversary—and both young women decided they were ready to take on another challenge. The idea of an everyday trunk show of curated and local brands comes to fruition in Urban Lifestyle. The duo felt it was about time that Cebu started to experience an upscale and millenial shopping experience. They wanted to challenge the conventional theory of shops by bringing forward the new school idea of putting different brands together under one concept. Going local, of course, is another important aspect— Urban Lifestyle carries homegrown Cebuano brands that are just starting out, hoping to help launch them into the mainstream. The duo approached their friend Gab Lasala to put together the project. As the principal architect
of CuadArch Planning and Design, Gab is responsible for giving Urban Lifestyle the raw, modern industrial feel that it has—unfinished concrete walls, shelves made from wooden planks and metal piping, and vintage decor and succulent plants that reinforce the rustic look. A long time friend of Charmaine, Gab had immediately said yes to the idea when it was brought up to him. “Seeing the success of Charm and Ruby’s other projects,” he shares, referring to Pop District Bazaar and Sugbo Mercado, of which the girls are part of the management team. “I knew that the idea of Urban Lifestyle would definitely click in the minds of the already developing fashion and lifestyle trends in Cebu.” To manage the store, the duo again stretched their connections and asked Angela Rapes. “I said yes, of course,” recalls Angela, who has the experience of managing the Levi’s store in Ayala, Dockers, and the Magic Fit Alteration Shop. “I’ve always loved the idea of a concept store and a one-stop shop. I thought Urban Lifestyle could bring together local brands and make it more accessible to people all year round.” Rounding up the group is Vanessa de Gracia, who handles
marketing and social media. “I’m glad to be a part of Urban Lifestyle, as it is a great opportunity to experience being in business, even at a young age,” explains Vanessa, who is currently taking up Communications at the Cebu Normal University. Together, the team was able to put together a steadily growing inventory—clothing brands like Felici, Solit Swimwear, Deseo, Miss Mannequin, Savannah’s Closet, as well as creations from designer Jojo Martinez; footwear from Sole Searching and Rolando; accessories from See Things Eyewear, Deseo Accessories, MS Accessories; and so many more. Opening just this year, Urban Lifestyle has brought a fresh take of shopping to Cebu City, and has developed a following among the fashionable who are looking for more than the usual retail brands. Their vast offering of locally made products will surely be able to encourage people to advocate promising, developing businesses—and that’s certainly something to be happy about. Z
Axis Entertainment Ave., Escario St., Cebu City @urbanlifestyle
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ADVERTORIAL
Travel Lust
For four years now, International Travel Festival proves that they are the travel fair that offers the best deals.
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ith the year 2017 almost coming to an end, we're ticking off the rest of the destinations on our bucket list. What better way to do that than by taking advantage of a travel festival? With countless discounts, promos and freebies, it's the best place to plan your next getaway. Known as the travel fair with the best feals, the International Travel Festival once again spent an entire weekend giving Cebuano travel junkies their dream vacations. With the theme “Take Me There From Here,� the three day festival was a gathering for more than a hundred exhibitors, including tour operators and travel agencies, hotels, resorts and airlines. The event was co-presentated by the Tourism Promotions Board, Department of Tourism and Philippine Airlines, together with the Lapu-Lapu City Governement, the Province of Cebu, Cathay Pacific, Ayala Center Cebu, Alcordo Advertising, PLDT Enterprise, Me and My Sky, and Island Souvenirs. The weekend of July 14-16 saw thousands of visitors who looked forward to getting great travel deals. As its fourth installment, the festival strengthened its campaign of promoting the country by inviting some of the regional tourism sectors in the fair. It eventually became a convergence point for tourism stakeholders and consumers, a venue to promote tourism products and forge ties to widen the range of connections. During the opening, Cebu Provincial Vice-Governor and head of the province's tourism council Agnes Magpale shared how Cebu is blessed with sweeping landscapes and tranquil seawaters. The beautiful sights and welcoming people prove that it is more fun in the Philippines.
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Cesar R. Villanueva, OIC-Industry Relations and Services Promotions, (Domestic Promotions Department), Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), Judy Gabato, Officer-in-Charge Department of Tourism - Region 7 Central Visayas, Cebu Vice-Governor Agnes Magpale and Reyani Romano, Philippine Airlines (PAL) Area Head for Visayas
Organized by MyEventology, the travel show has only gotten bigger. It now includes a special section of top-of-the-line luxury resorts around the country. With all the deals we've discovered at this year's International Travel Festival, we can only look forward to next year's installment. The festival was made possible with the help of TwinBee Ads Corporation, Zee Lifestyle, The Freeman, Sunstar, Cebu Daily News, ABS-CBN Cebu, SilkAir, Smart COmmunications, Sun Cellular, and Amadeus. Z
Antonio Fernando Blanco, Regional Director, Department of Tourism Region 9 Zamboanga Peninsula, Judy Gabato, Officer-in-Charge Department of Tourism - Region 7 Central Visayas, Cesar R. Villanueva, OIC-Industry Relations and Services Promotions, Tourism Promotions Board, Cebu Vice Governor Agnes Magpale and Christian Paro-an, Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Thannya Pino
Closet Case
If you are what you wear, then what a story your closet would tell. This month, Zee Lifestyle takes a peek into the wardrobes from some of Cebu’s most stylish to pick up some styling and organizing tips, get a better understanding to their personalities, and really to see if their collection of clothing is as massive as we think. by Shari Quimbo
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t he Doyenne Amparito Lhuillier
hen the Zee Lifestyle team came up with the idea to do closet features, Amparito Lhuillier’s name was immediately on the top of the list. It wasn’t just because she was one of the most well-dressed women in the city, although she most certainly is. The drive behind doing this feature came from a past photo shoot when she had given this writer a peek at her extensive closet. “I arrange everything here myself,” she’d said back then. “I even clean it myself!” That personal love for clothes—and the brief look at the clothes and accessories she’d amassed over the years—was something that was to be expected, but nonetheless awe-inspiring. On the day of the shoot, Amparito led the team to her private bathroom, which is just off her side of the master’s suite. Cabinetry lined the walls, while an island positioned in the middle of the space was host to a collection of different accessories. As if to prove a point, she opened one of the drawers, which was filled almost to the brim with bangles. Her closet doors opened to reveal rows upon rows of shoes, all arranged on perfectly aligned shelving. “I’m always in high heels,” she reveals. “I like heels. They give you poise and class. You move different.”
photography Mark Philip Dales makeup Romero Vergara hair Jesse Egos
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CLOSE T C A SE Although many people associate her with the more glamorous evening wear at events, Amparito admits that on normal days she can be quite casual. “I’m usually in pantsuits because I usually still go to the office everyday,” she reveals. “I like jeans too, but maybe with a jacket. And always with heels.”
The mirrored shelving by the vanity makes Amparito’s perfume collection look more extensive as it is—but that’s not to say she doesn’t have a considerable amount. Many of the scents she’d used only once.
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It’s not all clothing here—one wall of her closet is a makeshift bulletin board, where notes from her husband and children are on display. The overflowing of cards—from Mother’s Day to anniversaries, to a sweet thank you note from her daughter—is a good indication to how important family is to Amparito.
“I know. I have so much,” Amparito admits as she points to the almost completely covered surface of her vanity. And to think these were just the ones she used regularly. The drawers are practically overflowing with products, although she makes sure everything is organized—there is a drawer dedicated to the different types of beauty products.
The two vanity areas in the bathroom are also lined with glass shelves that showed a vast collection of perfume bottles. From simple glass vials to the more elaborately shaped ones, Amparito reveals there are some that she might have never even used before. “I keep buying or people keep giving them as gifts,” she admits. “I know, I have way too many.” The funny thing is, that wasn’t even the actual closet. Amparito pulls out a key from her pocket and unlocks another door to one side of the bathroom, which opened up to a space that can be likened to a small boutique. Rows of clothing hung from metal racks, all custom-made for the space. In one corner is a niche lined with shelves where her collection of designer bags were all on display. “I keep the designer bags here, and it’s all very orderly,” she explains,
pulling out a Christian Dior purse she said she bought in Paris years before. She gestures to a row of small drawstring dustbags in the corner. “Those are my clutches from Monique Lhuillier, of course.” One entire rack is devoted entirely to blue jeans and white button-downs, showing Amparito's penchant for that classic look. Besides that, her clothes are all arranged, creating a mishmash of colors and fabrics that was definitely a stunning visual. Her evening dresses, tucked into garment bags, are relegated to the end of the room. “I’m not brand-conscious. It’s about what fits you,” she shares, talking about the different outfits she had bought on afternoon trips to the mall and pieces that have been picked up while traveling. That’s not to say that she doesn’t have her favorite designers. “I have five
Filipino designers that I go to, but Philip Rodriguez was my original. I only wear Filipino, and of course, Monique Lhuillier.” “We had to add more space,” Amparito continues as we approached another mini-room in the area. The wider space was almost full itself with racks of clothes, although these looked like they were fairly recent purchases. “I think I kept buying more and more clothes, and I realized there was no more space for them. Señorito,” she laughs, referring to her husband Michel, “finally said, okay, let’s expand your closet.” There’s a sense of excitement from Amparito as we go through her clothes, and I muse that wandering through her closet must seem like taking a walk down memory lane. To have developed such a sophisticated sense of style must have taken years—and a lot of shopping sprees— to cultivate. Z
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t he it girl Kryz Uy
photography Oliver Echevarria hair and makeup Arnauld
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am not prepared at all! My room’s such a mess because I’m in between travels,” Kryz Uy tells me in an apologetic Facebook message the day before we’re scheduled to do the photoshoot. In all honesty, I don’t think it even mattered–there could be clothes all over the f loor, and we’d still be excited to take a peek into her wardrobe. The persoanlity behind the fashion blog Thirsty Thought, Kryz’s style has been one that’s constantly evolving, but these days she seems to have come into her own, favoring tailored pieces, subtle feminine touches, pops of print and color, and tongue-in-cheek captions that prove she doesn’t take herself too seriously. That’s apparent in the different corners of her bedroom too—a caricature of her by Gil Maningo, an art book featuring superheroes in risque poses, a stress ball shaped like lovely lady lumps, a framed cut-out from Candy Magazine that marks her first-ever editorial feature (“Those were still trendy at the time,” she laughs, pointing at the fake collar) are tucked into their own corners, revealing different facets of Kryz’s personality. When it comes to dressing up, Kryz has created a system that helps her figure out what to wear in the morning or, in most cases these days, pack for a trip. “I put all the clothes that I haven’t worn yet here,” she gestures to the clothing racks standing against the walls near her bed. “So when I’m planning my outfits, this is where I look.” Her beauty arsenal is just as organized. “Remember What A Girl Wants?” she asks, referring to the retail store she used to run with her sisters. She points at the table that
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CLOSE T C A SE Kryz receives a number of gifts throughout the year, from framed print-outs of her Instagram photos to coffee table books gifted from photographers she's met around the world. One stand-out piece is this caricature of herself by local artist Gil Maningo.
Resting on the floor next to her bed are rows of shoes lined up neatly on top of their boxes. “These are my favorite designer shoes. I like sleeping next to my shoes!” she laughs, before adding, “That sounds kind of sad.” The one that gets the most use, though, is her pair of Chanel espadrilles. “They’re so worn,” she points out. “I actually got them cleaned already, but they couldn’t get it back to its original white. That’s how much I’ve used it.”
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This clutch, which Kryz had gotten from Hong Kong designer Cecilia Ma during a shoot she had done in the city, is the piece Kryz feels most embodies her personality now. “I like it because it’s fun, and I like bringing home souvenirs from my travels,” she explains. “And because I like to drink!” she adds with a laugh.
“It started when a brand had my Instagram photos posted on magnets, and they gave it to me as a gift,” Kryz explains, gesturing to the bookcase that had turned into a sort of photo wall. Besides the magnets, the shelves are home to polaroids, photobooth souvenirs and fan art that she’s received through the years. It’s also where she keeps her favorite books. “My best friend Gillian told me I should move them to my office now, but I can’t do it!” she laughs. “I need to have them near me!”
For this shot, Kryz chose to wear something streamlined and plain, "because this corner is really so messy!" she laughs. (We begged to disagree). She adds, "Usually, I just wear a dress when I'm too lazy to mix and match."
now functions as her vanity. “This is from there,” she laughs. Organized in cases from Muji and Miss Bella PH (a local brand that creates acrylic makeup organizers), her makeup is kept neatly in place. Products she’s never used, though, are kept in a separate cabinet in her actual closet. And then, of course, there’s the issue of shoes. Besides the lucky
favorites that sit in her bedroom, her footwear collection (for now) is arranged neatly on the shelves in her newly finished office. “I can’t keep them there because this is my office,” she sighs. The collection of clothing is considerably more pared down than we expected, possibly because Kryz is constantly making room in her closet
by participating in events like the Pop District Bazaar, and because she’s developed an understanding about what works for her and her lifestyle. “I like getting to feel more confident or more playful or more relaxed just because of what I put on,” she explains. Perhaps that really is the secret to looking chic all the time. That, and an amazing wardrobe. Z AUG -SEP 2017 zeelife s tylecebu.com
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t he gentleman Karlo Lim photography Ezekiel Sullano
bout a year ago, a certain online persona sent out a tweet about how Sugbo Mercado’s main man, food writer and entrepreneur Michael Karlo Lim, was always dressed in a suit despite the country’s sometimes scorching temperatures, only the tweet was phrased in a less flattering light. It may be a testament to how nice a person Karlo actually that so many people had risen to the defense, which prompted the deletion of said post—but, to be fair, he does have a lot of jackets. In fact, one rack is dedicated entirely to them, from a pale pink suit that was custom-made during a recent trip to India, to a mini collection of blazers from Uniqlo. The most distinct one, though, would have to be the suede Wild West-inspired version that was on display on the clothes stand in the corner. “This is where I usually put the outfits I already planned out for events, and since I’m going to a country album launch this weekend, this is perfect, right?” As we go through the rest of the clothes he had organized in the bedroom-turned-closet (“Okay, to be honest, I still have unpacked luggage from my days in Beijing hidden in storage,” he admits sheepishly when I tell him he had less clothes than I expected), it’s clear that Karlo is one who is committed to dressing well, but doesn’t take fashion too seriously. “I wouldn’t say I like dressing up, but rather love dressing well,” Karlo shares. “Clothes are an extension of character. Personal style says much about who you are without having to say anything. What you have on is both your introduction and part of your story. Still, this all really isn’t about impressing anyone but ultimately feeling good about myself.”
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Simple white clothing racks create a sense of coherence among Karlo's personality-packed collection of clothes—one of which is a fringed suede jacket that he hopes to wear to a country album launch coming up.
Besides the clothes, the other thing that takes up the most space on Karlo's shelves is his collection of pop-up books, which range from fairy tales like Beauty and the Beast to literary classics like Frankenstein and The Odyssey. "I love them," he shares. "There's just so much thought that goes into making each one."
Although he hardly wears it, the pair of jootis he got from India is among his most interesting pair of shoes. "Do you know there is no right or left shoe when it comes to jootis? They're all the same," he shares.
Figurines collected from various travels are arranged on the shelves, as well as various homages to his alter-ego The Hamburgero (a play on words of hamburger and the Bisaya term for boastful).
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Having this philosophy in mind, it’s then easy to understand the way Karlo picks out his clothes— each of his pieces tell a certain story, whether that’s a specific moment in time or a different aspect of his personality. He pulls out a pair of chambray harem pants that he’d so far only worn in India, which seems appropriate. He shows off the considerably extensive collection of floral shirts that have been on rotation all summer, acquired from different sources (which includes girlfriend Vanessa East’s own closet). Lined up against the walls and on low shelves are his collection of shoes that include white sneakers, classic leather oxfords, sequined jootis, and fur slippers. Of course, the space isn’t one that’s dedicated to purely fashion. His good taste translates to design, which is seen in thoughtful details throughout the room—a sheepskin throw from New Zealand stands out against the modern gray couch, while a Chiquita by Kenneth Cobonpue sits in another corner. A wooden bookshelf lines one wall, housing a collection of knick-knacks that include a Lego McDonalds burger set, a model of the Gungan sub from Phantom Menace, and Karlo’s extensive collection of pop-up books. Z
This mother and daughter pair of giraffes is something Karlo had bought off a window display from Celine, and now puts on display right outside his closet. "I was planning on turning them into lamps, but I never got around to it," he admits.
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t he Queen Bee Urgello photography and makeup Arnauld additional photography Ezekiel Sullano
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he crown is the first thing that caught our eye once we entered Bee Urgello’s all-white closet. Sitting on a pillow in one of the most visible spots in the space, it’s the diadem that’s usually awarded to the lady who wins Queen Philippines, the pageant for alternatives. It’s surprising that it’s here then, considering Bee had won the title back in 2011. “Mommy Cary,” she says, referring to revered designer and Queen organizer Cary Santiago, “told me that I can keep it here, because I’m the Queen that’s most active in events.” Of course, it’s not like Bee needs a crown to stand out. Whenever she makes an appearance, she does so in carefully thought-out ensembles that make the most of her enviable height and svelte figure—and the various Best Dressed awards certainly reinforce her sense of style. “Dressing up makes me happy, and it completes me,” Bee shares as she shows us the different outfits she had planned out for the shoot—namely a body-conscious red dress, and a black and white combination that she felt played up her proportions. As we go through the rest of the clothes, she told us to concentrate on the racks that stood by the closet door. “Those are the ones that I haven’t worn yet,” she explains. The items that fell under that category actually took up two racks, filled from end to end with pieces
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from brands like H&M and Zara, as well as creations from local designers. “I always say that shopping is better than sex. A dress or shoes will never hurt or leave you like a man does,” she says with a laugh. The collection shows off different sides to Bee’s style—from the trendy see-through sheaths with f loral embroidery, to the more classic looks of jersey jumpsuits and black dresses. Then there’s her collection of evening gowns, with figure-hugging silhouettes and intricate detailing, that she wears for her official appearances. A yellow dress with cut-out details from Cary Santiago and a blue one with a bejeweled neckline from Harvey Cenit hang at the end of one rack. “Those are really new. The one from Harvey Cenit I’d just picked up,” Bee explains. “I can’t wait to wear them!” But it’s not just about clothes—with its white walls and cabinetry, Bee’s closet has various areas to display the other part of her collection: her shoes and bags. “They’re my babies,” Bee jokes as she shows us her Chanel bags, which occupy their own shelf on one end of the room. Next to it, a wooden shelf houses her designer shoes, organized by brand for easier dressing. Drawers on one side are filled with various accessories, and Bee laughs as we move to open another cabinet. “Don’t! Those are my pang-balay,” she exclaims. “Not stylish at all.” Z
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CLOSE T C A SE "I love Chanel. I'm a Chanel baby," Bee laughs when we comment on the collection of bags arranged on one side of the closet. Her go-to purse is a nude Chanel tote, "because it fits everything I need to bring around, and it goes with everything."
Of course, it's not just all about Chanel—Bee's other designer bags get their own space inside one of the wardrobes, and are arranged neatly for when she's in the mood to switch up.
"It's just my favorites," Bee answers with a laugh when we ask her why some shoes get displayed outside her cabinets. For easier reference, she devotes each shelf to a certain brand—this one features her Yves Saint Laurent pairs.
With formal events regularly making their way into her calendar, Bee has a collection of couture dresses from her favorite local designers. This piece from Harvey Cenit, with its intridcate detailing, is something she's saving for the next occasion.
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Although she isn't afraid to experiement with trends, Bee leans toward classic silhouettes that flatter her figure. Jumpsuits in a rich color, for example, emphasizes her long legs and fair complexion.
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FA SHION
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COMME ÇA !
With their exaggerated shapes, unusual textures and unapologetic character— Rei Kawakubo’s oeuvres are among the things in this world that we can rightly call original. Taking inspiration from Commes des Garçons and The Art of the In Between, we bring together these unusual pieces from inventive designers to celebrate Rei, the living icon. creative director Oj Hofer photography Joseph Ong stylist Blaq Mafia makeup Romero Vergara assistant Jesse Egos braids by Afrique Lassie
Stretch wool long coat with satin shawl collar and tuxedo pants worn with silk polyamide sweatshirt. Draped heavy tweed, single-seam dress with silk organza ribbon. Both, Oj Hofer AUG -SEP 2017 zeelife s tylecebu.com
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Poly-blend tulle ruched dress in ravishing red, Edward Castro.
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Navy blue wool coat with drop-sleeves and ornamental basting, worn with acetate gingham shirt and lightweight wool pants, Edwin Ao AUG -SEP 2017 zeelife s tylecebu.com
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Wool and cotton short suit, Edwin AO. Pique cotton shirt. Oj Hofer; Draped jersey shirt with dotted double circle draped skirt, Axel Que.
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Double rectangle jersey dress, James Reyes AUG -SEP 2017 zeelife s tylecebu.com
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Oversized wool hoodie with plaid sleeves and pockets. Stretch lace dress with strips- skirt, Bree Esplanada
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Peak lapel microfiber coat, cotton kimono shirt, wool kilt and jeans, Oj Hofer; Taffeta and tulle dress, Jojie Lloren AUG -SEP 2017 zeelife s tylecebu.com
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FA SHION
Rei Kawakubo
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here is no meaning. I am just trying to make a business out of creating things that didn’t exist before. It’s a very simple idea,” Rei Kawaubo tells The Guardian after asked about any hidden meanings in her creations. It’s after The Art of the In-Between opened at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, where selected pieces from the designer’s body of work were on display. Of course, it’s only natural to look for meaning in Kawakubo’s pieces—since she started Comme des Garcons in 1973, she has created collection after collection of clothes that seem to be the antithesis of what people thought fashion should be. She’s famously sent out models in unusual silhouettes (her most recent show featured dresses that had no armholes); “un-fabric fabrics,” as Vogue describes (such as a shiny silver jackets made from vaporized aluminum and polyester film); and intricately folded, tucked and exaggerated details. As the the curator of The Met’s Costume Institute Andrew Bolton puts it, she was “a disrupter long before that became fashionable.” Kawakubo was born in Tokyo, and had no formal education in fashion design—instead, she took up “the history of aesthetics” at the Keio University, which included the study of Asian and Western art, and worked with advertising at Ashai Kasei, a fabric company. From there, she was a freelance stylist before she started creating her own clothes and launched the line Comme des Garcons, which is French for “like some boys.”
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Rei Kawakubo at the Spring-Summer 2014 shows in Paris
Comme des Garcons, Fall 2017 Ready-to-Wear collection
Images from The Art of the In-Between at the Metropolitan Museum of Art
The rest, as they say, is history. Kawakubo’s has created a brand that’s become synonymous to brazen individuality, so much so that even a white shirt with the now iconic Comme des Garcons logo is associated with an urban spirit. Her originality has sparked several fashion trends over the years—oversized clothing, frayed edges, head-to-toe black—and has influenced many of the personalities in fashion today. Sure, her clothes aren’t for everyone, but those similarly creative-minded take inspiration from how this designer has elevated fashion into an art form while truly celebrating originality. It’s not surprising then that Kawakubo is only the second living designer to have her own Costume Institute show—most have been honored with the distinction posthumously, save for Yves Saint Laurent back in 1983. For her influence, though, Kawakubo remains incredibly elusive. And although she continuously creates clothing that defies the norm, that is never the motivation. “I never intended to start a revolution,” she said in an interview with The New Yorker in 2005, describing her first show in Paris when she’d sent models down the runway in oversized sweaters and asymmetric skirts—this was in the early 80s, when neon Spandex was de rigeur. “I only came to Paris with the intention of showing what I thought was strong and beautiful. It just so happened that my notion was different from everybody else’s.” Z
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Intimate Affairs Some delicates are just too pretty to cover up. Dainty lace and sensual satin play up the sexy side of comfort, while handcrafted accessories portray an all-out glamour. photography Ali Ghorbani sittings editor Shari Quimbo stylist Blaq Mafia hair and makeup Eunice Enrera production assistant Carlo Rivera model Daina Nelson of Origin Model Management
Blush demi cup bra, from ETAM. Ribbed pencil skirt, from FOREVER 21. Tear-shaped drop earrings, from VERO. Gold necklace and cuffs, by DORO BARANDINO. AUG -SEP 2017 zeelife s tylecebu.com
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Triangle lace bralette from ETAM. Pink a-line skirt from FOREVER 21. Tear-shaped drop earrings and pendant necklace, from VERO. Gold cuff, by DORO BARANDINO.
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Black balconette bra and high-waisted knickers, from ETAM. Tear-shaped drop earrings, from VERO.
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Lace bodysuit and silk robe, from ETAM. Drop earrings and tiger-shaped ring, from VERO.
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Bodysuit with lace panels, from ETAM. Pendant necklace and rings, from VERO. AUG -SEP 2017 zeelife s tylecebu.com
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Lace bralette and satin drawstring shorts, from ETAM. Drop earrings, from VERO.
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Lace triangle bra and black knickers, from ETAM. Denim jacket, from H&M. Drop earrings, from VERO.
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COVER S TORY
Ever After
This wedding in picturesque Brittany attended by close friends and family was the perfect backdrop to start a new chapter in their lives—Marie Irisha Arcenas, the Cebuana designer and favorite Zee cover girl, wed her prince charming Jacques Christophe Branellec, the Jewelmer scion. photography Dan Douglas Ong and Ryan Arbilo
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S
ome girls are just born with it—beauty and brains, as the expression goes. When she graduated from Los Angeles’ Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in 2010, Mia Arcenas was determined to “build a business empire,” as an Instagram post of hers stated not so long ago. Her future groom, Jacques Branellec, seemed to be on the same trajectory. At an early age, he was spending school holidays at the Jewelmer Pearl Farm in Palawan cleaning oysters. So when their paths collided, it was at a time when both were concentrating on building their careers. But destiny, and Jacques, was persistent, and soon it became clear that this was a serious affair. (See the box story on their blossoming romance, as narrated by maid of honor Holly Dychangco in a hilarious skit that was performed by
“famous actors” during the wedding) The groom’s mother Francia had always told him 32 was a good age to get married; and she was a little worried that Jacques wouldn’t make the deadline, until he brought Mia home. Family is a very important part of both Mia and Jacques’ lives— in fact, when Jacques proposed, he'd actually proposed first to her parents Dindo and Iris, who immediately burst into tears. “When Jacques proposed, minutes after I had said yes, he added, ‘by the way, the wedding will be in France!’” Mia recalls with a laugh. “I had no time to grasp everything that had happened and what I had agreed to.” The wedding was specifically going to be in Saint Pol de Leon, a coastal village in the Brittany region of France where the Branellecs are from. With about a year to plan out the event, the couple decided to split
the tasks equally to make sure everything would be taken care of. “I did all the creative planning, while Jacques took care of the technical and logistics side,” Mia shares. “The biggest challenge was communicating with the suppliers since they all spoke in French!” On his part, Jacques was busy working out how their family and friends would be there. “My main challenge was making sure everyone got to where they needed to be—from the airport to the hotel, from hotels to the wedding events, and back, and around everywhere.”
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t all turned out alright, as the four-day event began with a happy bunch of friends and family from around the world gathered in Roscoff one bright June afternoon chattering in front of the postcard perfect Brittany coastline. Roscoff is a rustic town in the northwest region of France,
Dindo, Mia and Iris Arcenas
Martin de Guzman, Marion Branellec, Jacques Christophe Branellec, Mia Arcenas, Ludo Brenellec and Raphael Lorenzo
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Nico Rivera, Matteo Guidicelli and Karl Arcenas
Jacques Brenellec and iris Arcenas
Solenn Heussaff, Anne Curtis and Karen Lima
Eva Gullas, Pamela Manuel, Frances Siao, Alice Woolbright, Pauline Hofer, Tamsin Booth, Iris Arcenas, June Alegrado, Bernie Aboitiz and Butch Carungay
Giorgia Guidicelli, Izarra Ugarte, Jacques Branellec, Arden Fernan and Christelle Dychangco
Michael Sharpe, Matteo Guidicelli, Nico Bolzico and Marc Gauthier
BEHIND THE STORY This is a script from a skit at the wedding, produced by maid of honor Holly Dychangco. The parts of Mia and Jacques were played by Solenn Heussaf and Nico Bolzico, respectively. Location: Aziza’s Birthday bash at Niner Ichi Nana Aziza: Jacques, this is Mia. Mia, this is Jacques. You both are single! Now mingle! Jacques: Would you like to have a drink with me? Mia: Um, I’m kinda busy… J: Would you like to eat something? M: Um… I’m okay, thanks. Location: back in Cebu Holly: How was Aziza’s party? M: They introduced me to this one guy, but I’m not sure. H: What do you mean? M: He’s nice, but… H: Ah, the “he’s nice” line. M: We’ll see. Location: Hong Kong Jewelry Trade Show J: Hey! Are you in the jewelry show? M: Yes, I am! J: You wanna grab drinks after? M: …. Iris: Darling, just go! It’s only in the lobby anyways! M: (rolls eyes) Fine. Location: Lobby of Hotel (Jacques and Mia are having drinks, they keep laughing and joking around.) J: I told the lobby singer that you are next! M: What?! I’m not singing! J: But it’s your turn! Get up there! (pushes her to the stage) M: OMG! I can’t believe you! Location: back in the Philippines (Conversation with Jacques and Marion)
J: I want to marry her! She’s the one, I know! Marion: Wow, okay! Location: back in Cebu M: So, remember that guy I was telling you that Aziza introduced me to? H: The one you said was… M: Yes! So I saw him in Hong Kong, and I think he’s cute. Location: Sydney, Australia J: Marion, I’m gonna propose to Mia. I was thinking of going skydiving, and jump out of the plane right before she can say yes! Marion: I don’t think that’s a good idea, Jacques! You are gonna scar her for life. Day of Proposal: M: I want to go to this vegan brunch place. J: No! M: But I really want to go there! Why are you making it difficult? (fights about vegan cafe) J: Come with me. I want to bring you to this other place! M: I don’t want to go there, I want to check out that vegan place. (Jacques takes her to the dock, where there was a seaplane waiting) M: Are you joking with me right now? J: Just get in. (Seaplane landed in a private island with a picnic basket.) J: Will you marry me? M: What the hell?! Are you sure? J: (high-pitched voice, like Mrs. Doubtfire. Crying, wiping nose on sweater.) M: OMG, OMG! Yes!
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Francia and Jacques Branellec
June Alegrado, Glenna Guidicelli, Tess Lampert, Pauline Hofer, Pamela Manuel and Butch Carungay
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Frances Siao
Dindo and Iris Arcenas
Margie Lhuillier, Ching Cruz, Mariquita Yeung, Bernie Aboitiz, Eva Gullas, Jun Escario and Francine Siao
Alice Woolbright
Carla McKowen, Jacques and Mia Branellec, and Julie and Gabriele Boschi
Martin de Guzman and Marion Branellec
Anne Gauthier and Mickael Cardoso
an hour’s drive from the airport in Brest or a three-hour train ride from Paris. Not exactly in the tourist path, it is famous for its oysters, caramel, the Breton striped shirt, and the creamiest, most delicious salted butter that you can ever taste. The locals were probably wondering about the festive group that had converged—aside from the bride’s bevy of extended family from Cebu, there were guests who f lew in from Italy, Australia and other parts of the world. After all, Jewelmer has made a name for itself as the best purveyor of golden South Sea pearls in the international trade, after the groom’s father (also named) Jacques Branellec settled in Manila in the 1970s and founded the pearl farm with Manuel Cojuangco in the south of the country—long
before there was an El Nido or the Spratly Islands. Mia had decided early on that she was going to create her entourage’s dresses, and her own wedding gown. “It was the most amazing experience!” Mia exclaims.
Janthina Fong and Taro Niggeman
The festivities started with the civil wedding, attended by close family and friends. Jacques came dressed in his Philippine Coast Guard uniform, and Mia created for herself an ensemble of soft tulle, with a floral brooch and a satin sash in the same pale blue hue. As the guests started coming in, the couple hosted welcome cocktails on an outdoor property. It was prettily set up with white tents and long tables filled with cheese and patés, and champagne and rosé all sourced from nearby vineyards. Guests toasted the soon-to-bemarried couple, and cheered as they gamely performed their famous duet—Mia sang, while Jacques played his saxophone. They looked gorgeous in white, Jacques in a crisp shirt while Mia wore her long-sleeved top with a soft tulle paneled skirt with
The first thing you said to each other after the wedding?
Mia: My hubby! Jacques: This feels nice. “Jacques, from the beginning, pushed me to create my own dress. He said it would be even more special and unique, especially since I’m a designer and not many brides could do the same. He was right!”
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embroidered elements that hinted of their story: Jacques and Mia, gugma, je t’aime, the saxophone, gumamela flowers, and hearts. The wedding ceremony itself had guests taking private trams through a scenic five-minute ride to the centuries-old church Eglise Notre Dame. Father Bernard Holzer had flown in from Manila to officiate the
walk down the aisle. “All I could think was that my only child is now a bride. There was just so much joy and happiness, that her prayers were answered and that God gave her the man of her dreams.” For the wedding, Mia wore a form-fitting dress with intricate lace details, while Jacques had a threepiece Jun Escario suit on.
“There was so much joy and happiness, that her prayers were answered and God gave her the man of her dreams.” -mother of the bride, Iris Arcenas wedding ceremony. It was a personal and solemn affair with the bride’s cousin Matteo Guidicelli and maid of honor Holly Dychangco singing a beautiful, angelic rendition of The Lord’s Prayer. “I couldn’t even comprehend how I felt,” says the bride’s mom Iris Arcenas as she recalls seeing Mia
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It was a festive sight after the mass, a scene that featured ladies in elegant gowns and gentlemen in their summer suits, had overf lowed to the town square. The-wishers then proceeded to the reception at the Penfao manor, where the celebration lasted until the early hours of the morning. Z
Darie and Raleene Joseph and Steven Lava
Aziza MondoĂąedo
Erwan Heussaff and Anne Curtis
Giorgia Guidicelli and Arden Fernan
Hideo Muraoka and Fatima Rabago
Nico Bolzico and Solenn Heussaff
Robson Costa and Karen Lima
Isabela, Julie and Lucia Boschi
Michael Sharpe and Kym Maitland-Smith
Jun Escario and Amanda Booth
Michaela Paladio
Margarita Arcenas
Tess and HervĂŠ Lampert
HollyA UDychangco G - S E P 2 0 1 7and z e e lJacques i f e s t y l e c eBranellec b u . c o m 117
zee|events
VSY: ALL ABOUT BAGS Classic and timeless handbags were on display at the Camotes room of Shangri-la's Mactan Resort and Spa, as Manila-based designer Victoria S. Yabut officially launched her VSY collection in Cebu. Guests were treated to an afternoon tea as they enjoyed the beautiful array of carefully crafted minaudières. Also on display was Victoria's new collection Vicsy, which featured handmade woven bags and displayed in a custom-painted tropical-themed armoire.
Gwen dela Cruz and Lot Neri
Sonny Tungala and Gina OsmeĂąa
Makati Councilor Ichi Yabut
Victoria Yabut, Josie Chung and Corinne Yabut
Cebu Vice Gov. Agnes Magpale and Laurie Boquiren
Debbie Yabut
Atty. Regal Oliva
Christian Montez, Atty. Eugene Tevez, Victoria Yabut, Tina Cuevas and Peter Laud
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Gayle Yabut
Clayton Tugonon
Agustin, Peter and Diego Yabut
Victoria and Francis Dravigny
Sarah Enclona and Nick Henderson
Jenny Uy
Crystal and Yssa Acunia
Neil Felipp, Victoria, Erika Ong, Rachel Rama, Isa Escario and Katrina Labra
CEBU Hip Hop Beach Party It didn’t matter that it was a Tuesday and the first working day following a national holiday. Over 500 party-goers headed to Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu on 27 June, as Ibiza Beach Club, in partnership with event organiser, Ed Roberson, kicked off the new season with a beach spin-off party. Dubbed as “Bay Area Take Over”, the event brought together celebrated DJs from San Francisco Bay Area, who served up a fantastic mix of Hip Hop and RnB music. Leading the line-up was DJ E-Rock, one of the most celebrated DJs in the United States. He is a staple in premiere night scenes and clubs in San Francisco and Las Vegas. DJ E-Rock
Media guests
DJ Mark West
DJ Smith
Thai Sojourn The harmony fully sets as Marco Polo Plaza Cebu with their Culinary Journey presented Thai Sojourn. The featured culinary Thai dishes are well curated by Thai Chef Nontra-Udon Buapha of Marco Polo Prince Hotel, Hongkong who has over 38 years of experience in the kitchen. His mouthwatering delicacies, including his signature dishes like the Tom Yum Goong and Pad Thai is delectably worthwhile.
Carlo Rivera, Manna Alcaraz and Neil Savellon
Lara Constantino, Dr. Nestor Alonso and Jaime Picornell
Nelia Neri, Flor Ynclino and Cookie Newman
Thai Chef Nontra Udon Buapha
Yumny Mariot, Patty Taboada and Shaira Berame
Katrina Labra, Deneb Batucan and Marymil Cabrera
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zee|events MAKE YOUR OWN HAVAIANAS 2017 Havaianaticos took a walk down memory lane as Make Your Own Havaianas 2017 brought them back to the rad ‘90s. Each year, Havaianas highlights a theme and gives Havaianaticos the unique and fun opportunity to express their personal styles. MYOH 2017, which happened last June 9-12 at All Flip-Flops in Ayala Center Cebu and June 15-18 at All Flip-Flops in SM Seaside City, stepped all the way into one of the most popular decades of all time, the ‘90s.
Trixie Renggli and Pia Congmon
Bayani Garcia and Marko Sarmiento
Bee and Susan Urgello and Gayle Cheok
Aimil Sarmiento and Leanne Florendo
Justine Sarmiento and Ian Gomez
Eddie, Edward and Eve Denise Onglatco
Jan, Levie and Luke Lim
Joanna Lhuillier, Jean Kim and Myles Lhuillier
Monique and Iago Jarque
Jojie Garcia with children Veya and Ana
Laurice Chiongbian
Glitterati 7: Electric Dreams The much-anticipated annual fashion show presented the metro’s young personalities together with Cebu’s rising creatives and SM’s best-loved brands like Forever 21, Levi’s, Forme, Mango, Terranova, and Penshoppe at The Northwing in SM City Cebu last July. The show also highlighted the classic denim, brought to life with a neon twist by the city’s up and coming fashion designers Lian Lacandalo, Pearl Arandia, and Pinky Magalona.
Daniella Baroud
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Pietre Dakay
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Selly Heo
Selly Heo
Lian Lacandalo, Pearl Arandia, and Pinky Magalona
CEBU
a tropical birthday
Butch Carungay, Mia Arcenas, Cybill Gayatin and Iris Arcenas
Frances Siao, June Alegrado, Alice Woolbright and Tamsin Booth celebrated their birthdays with a tropical-themed celebration at the clubhouse of 32 Sanson. Friends came in bright floral prints, while the celebrants dressed, and performed, in matching outfits. Kate Anzani
Margie Lhuillier, Miranda Konstantinidou and Bernie Aboitiz
Marco Anzani and Erwin Siao
Jimmy Aboitiz and Tonio Ronquillo
Tamsin Booth, June Alegrado, Alice Woolbright and Frances Siao
Fête de la Musique 2017: A Decade of Music Alliance Française de Cebu’s Fête de la Musique Cebu 2017 came to a festive close on Saturday night, June 24, 2017 with its main stage event at La Vie Parisienne, Gorordo Avenue. The two weekend-long concert series, based on a concept which started in France in 1982, shone a light on some of Cebu’s best talents, which all came together in celebration of World Music Day.
Jess Tamboboy, Kota Yamada and Dominic Dosdos
Team Alliance Française de Cebu
Paul Caca
Jerika Teodorico
Jeanne Gourdon and friend
Nikki Shan
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zee|events The Heartwarming wedding of Jewelle and Philip It was a celebration of love at the beach reception at Kandaya Resort, which was beautifully transformed into a botanical garden by Cebu's unmatched party designer Teresin Mendezona. The guests broke into applause when the bride Jewelle Yeung, resplendent in her Inbal Dror wedding gown, marched down the aisle with proud father Carlos Yeung to the waiting arms of her emotional groom, Philip Mugglestone. There was no dry eye among the guests, as everyone present knew that Philip had just lost both his parents the year prior to the wedding.
Christopher, Cameron, Catherine, Carla and Harrison Mckowen, Martin, Claudia and Ezra Yeung, Jewelle and Philip Mugglestone, Mariquita and Carlos Yeung
Cissy Lee, Jewelle and Philip Mugglestone, Johnny Lee
Jewelle and Philip Mugglestone
Jerika Ejercito, Issa Salliander, Melissa Emery, Shereen O’Brien, Georgie Ichikawa, Jessica Harkiewicz, Milly Brown, Chizoba Madubunyi, Chion Sasaki and Noor Alhariri
Clinton Hess, Angie Lhuillier, Edna Lhuillier, Ambassador Philippe Lhuillier, Amparito Lhuillier, Jean-Henri Lhuillier, Margie Lhuillier and Jaqueline Hess
Chat Alo, Frances Siao, Mayenne Carmona, Fanny Guanzon, Belinda Wong, Bum Tenorio
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Melissa Emery and Milly Brown
Patti Grandidge Herrera, Victoria Herrera, Jimmy Wong, Jon Herrera and Rene Patron
Jon and Patti Herrera
Philip Mugglestone, Gareth Edwards, Richard Poulson, Neil O’Brien and Samuel Chiu
Philip Mugglestone, Cong.Gwendolyn Garcia, Jewelle Mugglestone and Michael Rama
Annie Crum, Vivian Reichle, Carla del Prado and Cora Schweimler
Laarni Enriquez and Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada
Mayenne Carmona and Nora Sol
CEBU
GAOC Cebu Grand Launch
Hon. Edu Rama, Anthony Chang, Johndee Tiu and Malinda Vasquez
Jay Aldeguer
Cebuanos have now more reasons to smile as the leading dental center in the country opens in Cebu. One of the best in Asia, Gan Advanced Osseointegration Center (GAOC), was launched at SM Seaside City Cebu. Personally welcoming guests were the founder and the world renowned dental surgeon Dr. Steve Mark Gan and his remarkable team of dentists. The launch was attended by personalities from the media, local government and business sectors with a little tour of the sleek and modern looking clinic which makes GAOC a one-stop dental care center.
Joel and Carla Del Prado
Sophie Sady, Marissa Fernan, Michael Dino, Kenneth Cobonpue, Dr. Steve Mark Gan, Richard Yap, Dr. T C Phua, Alincoln Uy, Andreas Kruse, and Marilyn Gan
Nicole Liok-Ong, Lydia Sia,Lily Imon, Dr. Steve Mark Gan Chloe Ong Chua and Tracy Ong
Marlinda Angbetic-Tan and Kloodie Chiongbian
Kris Janson, Karla Henry and Alexis Go
Dr. Steve Mark Gan with Kaye and Paul Jake Castillo
Jaja Chiongbian Rama and Memel Fernan Borromeo
Teresin Mendezona, Michael Dino, Kenneth Cobonpue and Marissa Fernan
Kathleen del Rosario, Rani Misa, Jocelyn kokseng with Kaedee del Rosario, Earl Kokseng with Yanna Misa, Nina Misa and Marilyn Gan
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zee|events
BOSCH SHOWROOM IN CEBU As Europe’s no. 1 brand of domestic appliances, Bosch opened its showroom at the Design Center along A.S. Fortuna St., Mandaue City. Guests flocked were the impressive Cebu’s social set along with businessmen, politicians and some members of the media. With Hafele, the country’s leading distributor of architectural products, distribute Bosch in the country. Bosch sets the standard both in innovation and functionality while constantly meeting the highest demands.
Maarit Kaikkonen
Annette Mendezona, Ana Climaco and Jackee Gullas-Weckman
Gavin Bagares, Charity Ronquillo, Rein Soledad, Caroline Tan Porras, Choly Marie Padayao and Kingsley Benedict Medalla
Dr. Franz Seidenschwartz, Sarah Walker-Cortes, Veli-Matti Kaikkonen, Tamsin Booth, Mandaue Mayor Luigi Quisumbing
Efren Reyes, Caroline Porras, Gigi and Ato Alvarez
Josephine Sainz and Caroline Porras
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Melo Esguerra
Tamsin Booth, Rae and Frances Siao
Flor Ynclino, Chinggay Utzurrum and Cookie Newman
Dr. Fremont Base and Maan Montinola
June Alegrado, Alice Woolbright, and Iris Arcenas
CEBU
CEBU TRAVEL EXCHANGE 2017
Welcome arrival airport reception to our Buyers
Foreign buyers from Malaysia and Thailand
Preceding International Travel Festival, an opportunity for businesses and sellers await at the Cebu Travel Exchange. Happened last July 12 at Shangri-La Mactan, professionals from the travel industry got the chance to interact along with other 50 foreign buyers and over 50 local and sellers. The Cebu Travel Exchange provides a great opportunity for foreign agents to gain and sustain their interest in the Philippines as a travel destination.
Fellowship Dinner at the historic Liberty Shrine as hosted by the City of Lapu-Lapu. Guests were welcomed by Mayor Paz Radaza and Lapu-Lapu City Officials
Buyers experiencing the thrill of Canyoneering
Stephanie Villahermosa, Assata Cooper, Juliet Amazona, Thannya Pino and Tim Tio
Margarita Munsayac, Judy Gabato, Stephanie Villahermosa and Ricky Alegre
Global Wellness Day Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa, Cebu says yes to healthy lifestyles by celebrating Global Wellness Day. Held last June 10, the healthy day starts with a series of appetizing menus, fun activities and wellness tutorials. Healthy dining is also the highlight and chefs are more ecstatic to present their masterpieces.
Members of the Media at Global Wellness Day
Raquel Choa
Passato Di Verdura e Ricotta
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Photo Finish
Dubbed the “boy wonder” by publications when he first started out, Dan Douglas Ong has grown to become one of the most recognizable names when it comes to photography in Cebu. He shares with us some insight on what he loves about doing fashion editorials, his most memorable jobs, and how he strives to keep learning every day.
July 2014
What do you enjoy most about fashion photography? It is never constant—fashion changes everyday! But what I enjoy the most are the people I’m working with—the stylists, agents, makeup artists, editors and the models. I think it’s safe to say that it’s always a team effort. What’s the most memorable shoot you’ve ever done? My most memorable shoot would be my first fashion editorial from Zee. It was back in 2009. Our model was Angel from MAC, and at the shoot were the agent Chicoy Tomol, sittings editor Cybill Gayatin-Guynn, stylist Edwin Ao, and makeup artist Wen Wen Zaspa, assisted by Abbai Pila. It was fun, at the same time nerve-wracking because I was afraid of how it would turn out! What do you think are the secrets to becoming a successful photographer? Successful? I wouldn’t consider myself successful because everyday I’m still learning and trying out different, new things. All I think is that if I think I am good, there is
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@ZeeLifestyle
April 2013 May 2014
October 2014
always somebody better than me. That keeps me grounded. I am in competition with myself, and not with others. Any advice for aspiring photographers? My advice would be to be humble all the time, and work with the right people. Sheer talent won’t get you far. Professionalism is also key.
www.facebook.com/ZeeLifestyleCebu
September 2015
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