Tabla de contenidos para April/May 2020 en MEGA

It seemed like it was only yesterday when my life was so different. My days were filled with meetings in the office, presentations, along with attending product launches and events— lots of it. On average I would go to at least three events before calling it a day. I would go home at night, sleep and repeat. Other days I would be traveling and would be gone for anywhere from three days to two weeks. This—or rather—that was my normal. My job entails a lot going out, interacting and socializing and has been for years and years. Little did I know that this routine was about to change. It has only been two weeks since the community quarantine has been announced and implemented because of the onslaught of COVID-19—the pandemic…

LADY IN RED Give the illusion of a longer silhouette with shapeless pieces Graphic shift dress by ROLAND ALZATE, Jacquard pants by ANNE KLEIN, Rhinestone necklace by KLAD JEWELRY and White stilettos by PARISIAN STYLE TIP A lazy girl’s guide to chic, casual dressing? Opt for a tailored jumpsuit…

The philosophy of karma in Hindu belief transcends race and lifetimes. Each deed has a consequence and it can either affect someone’s past life or the present. For Charmaine Palermo, energy attracts energy and she has poured herself into passing on good karma to everyone. The PR maven and stylist was inspired by the movement and strength of a woman, leading her to create her own brand named ‘Chàrmà’ (pronounced as ‘karma’). “Each of our street-ready designs seamlessly combine high-performance support with striking details for women with active lifestyle,” she says. The initial collection is sleek, minimal, monochromatic and fully functional, making every piece stand out individually or all at once. Strategic mesh placements reveal hints of skin without sacrificing comfort, breathable fabrics allow you to seamlessly move and each…

The power of Asia was much talked about the beginning of the millennia. From increasing purchasing power to becoming the head of creative powerhouses, everyone was suddenly looking to the East as the future of commerce. From the ones who paved the way such as Josie Natori, Rei Kawakubo and Bibo Mohapatra, to new comers like Sandy Liang, Han Chong of Self-Portrait and Laura Kim of Monse and Oscar de la Renta, Asia is clearly dominating the world of fashion. A recent entry to this Asian powerhouse list is the winner of Netflix hit reality show Next In Fashion, Minju Kim. A rising design star in Korea, Kim has been dressing K-Pop superstars like BTS and Red Velvet. She has also won H&M Design Award as well as being shortlisted…

There is a simple test applied to children’s picture books that tell us if they are of a quality. Give a child with enough verbal ability any picture book, preferably one they have not seen or heard before, and ask them to tell you what it’s about. With just the pictures, a child should be able to cobble a tale from one page turn to the next. As the name implies, a good picture book should allow a child to understand its story with just pictures. Children can read emotion in a face, they react to colors, associate colors like blue and green as safe, and red and black as dangerous. Even if they are not spot on in their version, they will likely describe something of equal or even…

This summer, dare to let your playful side out. This month’s issue features the hottest in beauty—from the season’s new favorite lipstick to spray tan and contouring procedures. Additionally, the issue also shines a light on personalities that will help you grasp what it truly means to be beautiful. In Tried & Tested, the MEGA editors recommend their favorite SPF products to use under the sun. We’re inspired to play with color on Beauty Feature, where we put a spotlight on Hermès’ brand new beauty range. One of Manila’s most beautiful, Jess Kienle talks about her beauty routine and her latest business venture, Spray, in Beauty Blog. In this month’s Artist Confidential, Jof Fantone of The Color Bar talks about what it takes to make it in the industry. Last…

Summer can be a tricky time for anti-aging. While you may feel at your most carefree, giving in to impulses of soaking up the sun and last-minute beach trips, it is also a time where you should take extra care of your skin and body. While loading up on SPF and eating a balanced diet will definitely pay off, sometimes, we could use a little extra help from modern technology too. We paid a visit to two new clinics in the metro to help you with your anti-aging and sculpting concerns. EASY DESTINATION A hidden gem tucked in Uptown BGC, REMEDY SKIN SOLUTIONS provides quick, efficient solutions for skin concerns that both men and women face. I got to try one of the procedures they are most known for, the…

Mother and daughter duo and entrepreneurs Sheila and Milka Romero may seem a little different at first glance, but after speaking to them, you will see how the two are alike: determined in their own ways, creating their own version of what it means to be a girl boss. When asked what a regular day is like for the two, for example, their answers prove that the apple does not fall far from the tree. For Sheila, it starts with reading the bible for a good mindset to start her day, following this with checking up on her kids and bringing her youngest to school. After this, her day is just getting started: “On the way back, I grab coffee and reply to work messages. Various meetings are set throughout…

Three words one might use to describe Jessica Kienle Maxwell the first time they meet her: beauty, poised and tanned. The last adjective made possible with the beauty’s latest endeavor, the Philippines’ first spray tanning studio, aptly named Spray. The entrepreneur first caught our attention as the Head of Design and Merchandising for leading Philippine furniture manufacturer Philux, a business she runs with her sister, Stephanie Kienle Gonzalez. Now, she is one of the managing partners of Spray, which she founded together with her good friends Catalina Varona, Fabienne Aboitiz and Nicole Coromina Sala. Despite all these on her plate, she seems to have mastered the art of time management, squeezing in family and personal time on a daily basis. “I divide my time working at Philux’s head office and…

The rise of Asia as a global superpower is now well established. Made in Asia no longer has the same connotations it had years ago, and in pop culture, the dominance of BTS and other K-Pop acts, Asian-made and star-driven movies such as Crazy Rich Asians and Parasite have made it clear that we are taking over. Even the fashion world acknowledges this shift, as they look to Asia as a major market, creating specialized pieces and collections. No longer content to be part of the cast, Asians—all kinds—are demanding the spotlight. In these trying times we look again to Asia in it’s measures to flatten the curve of the Covid-19 virus. To show our solidarity to the world, we gather men and women of influence to talk about their…

“ BE PRESENT, BE PRODUCTIVE AND BE PURPOSEFUL. INVEST IN YOURSELF, LEARN SOMETHING NEW, MAKE THIS A SEASON FOR GROWTH” We’ve been given this time to reflect and reset. That’s exactly what I’ve been doing. Each day I write down my intentions and try to make myself better, physically, mentally and spiritually. I gained three takeaways from this experience. First, I’ve learned that this is the best time to reset and learn introspection. Life wants us to realize something more important and that is to protect our body and prioritize how we protect ourselves. I also learned to slow down, connect with my body and my feelings. Lastly, I learned to be present, be productive and be purposeful. Let us continue praying for our healthcare workers and frontliners in these…

“ FOR AS LONG AS WE CAN, IN WHATEVER WAY WE CAN, LET US BE THERE FOR EACH OTHER ” Honestly, I just feel extremely grateful that my family and I have a home, the means to buy food and water and other basic needs. Some days are tougher than others, but we all do what we can to reach out to others. I am slowly learning to not be consumed by the things that I cannot control, and instead focus on the things I can control. I am learning that the power of the people to speak up can make things happen on a larger scale, which is why we should stand up for what is right. I am reminded of the importance of appreciating the simplest things in…

“ EVERYTHING CAN CHANGE JUST LIKE THAT. NO ONE WANTED THIS TO HAPPEN AND ALL THE THINGS WE TOOK FOR GRANTED BEFORE THIS PANDEMIC ARE NOW SO IMPORTANT ” This pandemic is uncharted territory for everyone. I’m definitely overwhelmed and in a state of limbo as I feel normal but there are so many changes happening too fast around me. I’m coping by trying to help within the confines of my home as self-quarantine will not only save me but the people I love as well. I help through donations, spreading only credible news and being a good human being by following what trusted institutions are instructing everyone to do.…

“ HOLD ON TO HOPE.THERE’S SO MUCH TO LOOK FORWARD TO ” It’s been really overwhelming both online and IRL. But you have to work with what God wants us to do in this time. Family time, prayers, working out, conversations with friends online, my pets and the passion projects I can continue at home help keep me going. Also doing what I can to help spread news about donation drives in this time of need for our less fortunate friends in the community. Sometimes we tend to take for granted how blessed we truly are to have each other—to interact with, learn from, be inspired by, get good energy from and enjoy life with. You really don’t know how good you have it until it’s “taken away” from you.…

“ THERE ARE A LOT OF GOOD PEOPLE OUT THERE DOING GOOD. YOU MAY NOT SEE IT ON YOUR SOCIALS BUT THEY ARE OUT THERE ” It’s definitely a big change in comparison to my normal life. I don’t remember the last time I had to stay put in Manila for more than a week. I travel so much for work that I spend most of my year living out of a suitcase. I’m an on-the-go type of person so being home is tough but I’ve embraced it. Time spent at home with family is normally a luxury I do not have so I’m reveling in it. In terms of all the new rules that are in place, I don’t mind them at all because I think it is necessary.…

“ BE KIND, BE SENSITIVE AND BE INFORMED. THIS VIRUS CAN ONLY BE BEATEN IF WE DO IT TOGETHER ” I cope by using this time to reconnect with my loved ones, especially with my father who is currently undergoing therapy. I also help out when I can as I understand that I am in a lucky postion during these trying times. If there’s anything I learned from this, it’s the lesson of kindess and solidarity. We have seen how individuals stepped up to help our frontliners who are indeed heroes of these times. I hope and pray that the kindness continues to shine when this pandemic ends.…

“ IT MIGHT SEEM LIKE IT’S A LONG WAY TO GO BUT TOGETHER, WE WILL OVERCOME THIS! #TIWALA! ” I’m really just trying my best to help out in whatever way I can while I am at home under self-quarantine as one of my co-stars in Love Thy Woman was tested positive for COVID-19. By the time this is published, I should know if I have it or not. So far, so good. I have no symptoms. It’s tough staying at home because I am so used to working outside—taping, shoots, events and meetings. My life usually happens outside the house. But since the world is in a standstill, I try to find things to do at home which I rarely get to do—such as tidying my room, gardening, etc.…

GRAY AREA “We understand how dangerous a mask can be. We all become what we pretend to be.” –Patrick Rothfuss GRAND BETRAYAL “You are a manipulator. I like to think of myself more as an outcome engineer.” –JR Ward CON ARTIST “We’re flimflam artists. But remember, sonny, you can’t con people unless they’re greedy to begin with” –Sidney Sheldon ON TOP “Deceiving others. That is what the world calls a romance.” –Oscar Wilde SWEET DREAMS “There were people who went to sleep last night, poor and rich and white and black, but they will never wake again” –Maya Angelou FROM ABOVE “People weighed down with troubles do not look back; they know only too well that misfortune stalks them.” – Victor Hugo WASHED AWAY “Our hearts of stone become hearts…

FASHION ALEXANDER MCQUEEN, Shangri-La Plaza, Greenbelt 5; AMBUSH, Distinqt at Shangri-La Fort, Cul-de-Sac at The Podium; BALENCIAGA, Greenbelt 5; BERSHKA, Glorietta 2, SM Megamall; CH CAROLINA HERRERA, Greenbelt 5; CARTIER, Greenbelt 5; CHARLES & KEITH, SM Megamall, Power Plant Mall; CONVERSE, SM Mall of Asia, SM Aura, SM Makati, SM Megamall; GUCCI, Greenbelt 4, Shangri-La Plaza Mall; HERMES, Greenbelt 3; H&M, SM Southmall, SM Makati, SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, Uptown Mall; PRADA, Greenbelt 4, Solaire Resort and Casino; QUEEN STREET WEST, # 194 Baron 3 Gardens, A. Mabini street, Addition Hills, San Juan City; SAINT LAURENT, Shangri-La Plaza Mall; STRADIVARIUS, Glorietta 2, Shangri-La Plaza Mall, SM Aura; TOPSHOP, Greenbelt 3, Shangri-La Plaza Mall, Shangri-La Plaza Mall, Power Plant Mall; TORY BURCH, Greenbelt 5; UNIQLO, SM Mall of Asia, SM…

TOM FORD When it comes to pushing the boundaries of the senses, Mr. Tom Ford leaves no stone unturned. In a continuing series of audacious fragrances, he takes us on a very personal journey to his very own rose garden. Harvesting a bouquet of rare rose notes, such as the Bulgarian rose, Turkish rose, and the legendary Rose de Mai, seductive and intoxicating, this is far beyond the grasp of a geriatric’s penchant for the scent. Sharp and spicy, Rose Prick warms up with Sichuan pepper, Indonesian patchouli, turmeric, and tonka bean, which form a lingering base that is prickly, seductive, and deliriously hedonistic. CLARINS MEN Heralded as an all-around heroic hydrator, there is a lot of hype to live up to when it comes to the Super Moisture Balm…

READ ALL ABOUT IT No stranger to sustainability, Russell Villafuerte has always held the lifestyle at the core of his design sensibilities. While some would look back to his finale collection in Project Runway, as he well as his debut collection for Philippine Fashion Week, his relationship with ecoconsciousness traces back to his Interior Design degree, where the focus was really to design sustainably, ensuring the health of our planet. THE WRAP "Sustainability in the fashion industry is rather challenging, particularly for young designers like me,” admits Mark Tamayo. "Usually, cost constraints and sourcing issues would limit our ability to use sustainable fabrics. Nevertheless, I try to use sustainable materials whenever possible by using locally made fabric dyed using organic dyes.” In this undertaking, he crafted a tailored piece that…

Cultural appropriation has been around since forever, except this time, everything is magnified thanks to retweets and shares of social media. Countless celebrities in Hollywood have been “canceled” for it, with some actually suffering backlash while others simply coasting through a scandal. What some people call appropriation, some write off as “preciousness” and misplaced righteousness. Kim Kardashian wearing locs is one thing, but Kim Kardashian calling shape wear Kimono is another. Spot the difference? The idea that Asians in Asia don’t understand appropriation is false, as every social notion or impact is a product of different cultures. Also, being considered as a minority isn’t at the top of everyone’s minds. People are too busy trying to get out of poverty to take a step back and look at social issues.…

DYNASTY Similar to a traditional Qi Pao, East Asian countries are known for their fascination with elegant, high necklines Silk button down and skirt coordinates by ROLAND ALZATE, Knit scarf by LOUIS VUITTON, Rhinestone earrings by KLAD JEWELRY and White mules by H&M STYLE TIP Strap up in timeless pieces that will never go out of style…

Fashion as a wordless means of communication is cliché, but when it comes to certain women, it becomes so much more. Such is the case with real estate mogul, Vicki Narwani. When MEGA visited Narwani in her home, her personal style was seen and felt clearly. From the interiors of her house—think wooden paneling, high ceilings, hints of gold and silver dècoratifs—to her closet filled with pieces from heritage houses such as Louis Vuitton, Hermès, and Balmain; fresh-off-the-runway pieces and sought-after bags and shoes from the likes of Chanel and Christian Louboutin—it’s clear that her approach to fashion is all about modern sophistication with an appreciation for the classics and topped with a touch of fun and whimsy. The modelesque Narwani is a fashion daydream come to life. As a…

The end of 2019 was a time of disarray. My ideas and plans were all jumbled up in my mind and it reflected in many areas of my life: from having zero motivation to exposing myself to a room full of chaos. Systematically, the first actionable thing I could do was to fix my room. Lo and behold, the main thing that caused the chaos were the clothes that I have accumulated through out my eight-year working life. Needless to say, I was reaching my boiling point. I could not wait to find someone to sell it to so I sifted through my wardrobe and eliminated all the pieces that did not “spark joy” and donated it out of my sight. Everything felt lighter after. It felt so satisfying that…

Italy is popular for its rich culture, heavenly cuisine, avant garde fashion, and towering infrastructures that have survived c enturies. Its people are famed for their passion, family-centric values, and most of all, the fire that fuels their dedication to live unapologetically. This unabashed way of living is reflected in Bvlgari’s new B.zero1 Rock line. The prestigious jewelry house has embedded the rule-breaker spirit into each piece, displaying a new wave of rebelliousness combined with groundbreaking creativity. OF ROMAN RACE Inspired by the heritage Bvlgari tubogas choker with studs, the new B.zero1 Rock stands out as an icon of distinctiveness and self-expression. The original B.zero1 design is inspired by the Roman Colosseum, with its audacious spirals, and melded with the daring geometry of studs. Today, the B.zero1 Rock emerges like…

Not everyone wants to become a mother and that’s all right. But for those who do, or who are thrust into the responsibility of raising children, it often becomes an all-consuming role. From pregnancy to giving birth and motherhood, women often feel the push and pull of what they want to do and what needs to be done. Most societies have long expected women to give up everything for their children, to always prioritize their wellbeing and livelihood. Feminism has changed this outlook, given others the chance to seek out careers and other paths to self-fulfillment, but it has also somehow warped and added to the expectations of mothers: you have to be both—a great mom, an excellent career woman, an extraordinary wife, and the list goes on. Ask any…

Heading to Bohol is like going to Boracay but with a quieter community of locals and tourists. There’s something for the more adventurous of course: a day trip to nearby Danao Adventure Park offers extreme sports, but if you’re looking for an escape from the hustle of the city and some time to relax on a beach bed with a G&T, then Bohol it is. And one of the best places to stay in is at the Doljo beach front property that is Bellevue Bohol. I was lucky enough to stay in Bellevue Bohol for a whole weekend back in 2016. Back then the service and amenities were already very much up to par with its 5-star rating. But now, armed with a better grasp of the 21st century traveler,…

PLAY TIME What is summer without a little color? As always, SUNNIES FACE brings out our playful side with their new Play Paint (P245), their new nail polish range that comes in 15 delicious shades. More good news—Play Paint comes in a 10-free formula, meaning they were formulated without the harmful ingredients found in most nail polishes. MANE STORY One thing you might take for granted during beach trips is your hair. No need to fret—PILI ANI Pili Hair Serum (P895) saves your damaged hair by reducing dryness. It does so through a blend of natural pili and coconut oil, and the product can also be used as a lightweight leave-in conditioner or overnight hair treatment. SAFETY FIRST Stay worry-free under the sun with the latest from SNAILWHITE. The phenomenal…

When I was younger, I lived up to and relished the idea of eternal youth. I’m still considered young by most, but now that I am approaching the tail-end of my 20s I’m starting to realize that what they say about youth is in fact true: your bad habits will catch up with you—and genetics will have a hand in your destiny. All these I clearly saw in my body when I had a hard time shaking off vacation weight and saw the toll that junk food and stress took on my face. While I was able to work out the excess pounds, I was left with a sunken look around my eyes and more pronounced smile lines—the kind that remain even when you’re not smiling anymore. Concealers work and…

This is unprecedented. The issue you are now holding in your hands (or reading on your screen) is divided into two halves. The first half: pre-quarantine, pre-state of emergency, is a world where we groused about the terrible traffic, went on coffee runs with our colleagues, packed the city’s numerous shopping malls, obsessed about the latest It Bag and It Shoe and planned for the upcoming summer holidays. This reality makes up half of the bright and airy sections you have come across. They are filled with gloss and cheeky wonder. And the second half? Well. We are in the midst of a mandatory quarantine, the specter of the coronavirus seemingly in every handshake, in every doorknob and every look sent our way. Many of us are stuck in our…

“ WE ARE ALL JUST TRYING TO COPE; LET’S DO OUR PART A ND REMEMBER THAT WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER ” It’s definitely an adjustment. I am so used to being busy all the time. The pandemic has given me the chance to slow down and reflect. It is devastating to see what is happening to our country and the rest of the world. The fear is real. You can see both ignorance and arrogance in our society. But at the end of the day, we do what we can to stay calm, positive and healthy. Not just with our bodies, but also our minds. Sure, we keep things optimistic, cheerful and lighthearted with what we see online, but more importantly, we need to keep ourselves educated and mindful…

“ TRY NOT TO GIVE IN TO THE HATE TH AT’S STEMMING FROM FRUSTR ATION AND FEAR. LET’S JUST DO OUR BEST TO CONTINUE SUPPORTING ONE A NOTHER THROUGH THIS CRISIS AND WE WILL COME OUT OF THIS STRONGER ” It is really such a crazy time in the world right now, and to be witnessing this crisis escalate has just been so overwhelming. Through all of this, I’ve been teaching myself to shift my attention towards only the things that are in my control: my actions and reactions. I keep sane by keeping in touch with my family and friends back home, by finding ways to fuel my creativity and by educating myself on issues that I resonate with. I guess I’ve been focusing most of my energy on…

“ WE CAN ALL GET THROUGH THIS AND CONTINUE TO WORK TOGETHER ” It’s been weeks since the outbreak and I‘ll be lying if I say I’m not scared but I’m trying my best to keep calm and optimistic. I’m doing my part by staying home, using my voice to help and donate to foundations that are in need. I’ve realized how we only have one life and we shouldn’t take it for granted. You never know what tomorrow may bring so we better live fully and appreciate what we have.…

“ FILIPINOS ARE RESILIENT. WE HAVE FACED MANY BATTLES BEFORE, WHETHER THEY’RE CHALLENGES BROUGHT ABOUT BY POLITICS OR MOTHER NATURE, WE’VE MANAGED TO COME TOGETHER AND FACE EVERYTHING WITH OPTIMISM ” I asked my dad and he told me that he hasn’t seen anything like this in his lifetime. This is a first for all of us, and the changes in our day to day lives have been drastic. I’ve been able to find creative ways to be social, to stay fit and to keep my mind occupied in the midst of a global health crisis, as most people have. If anything, it’s allowed me to reset my priorities and put everything into perspective. It’s allowed me to spend time on personal creative projects that I’ve put on hold and…

“ STAY SAFE. STAY CLEAN. EXERCISE TO FIGHT OFF ANY SICKNESS AND RELEASE ENDORPHINS WHICH’LL MAKE YOU SUPER, DUPER HAPPY. EAT HEALTHY TO BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM AND REFLECT ON WHAT WE CAN DO TO TAKE CARE OF THE EARTH, SO THE EARTH CAN TAKE CARE OF US ” The new demands given to us are, at the end of the day, rules to keep us safe, teaching us to be more vigilant and careful. As the daughter of a nurse, I’ve learned that if we work together we can get through this. Global warming makes the world more hospitable to viruses and bacteria. This probably isn’t going to be the last disease that will come our way if we continue to treat the earth poorly. We need to reflect…

“BAYANIHAN IS A N ADMIR ABLE SENSE OF HEROISM DEEPLY ROOTED IN OUR CULTURE, AND TO BE ABLE TO WITNESS AND BE PART OF SUCH AN ACT GIVES ME A N OVERWHELMING SENSE OF PRIDE” When news broke that the first case of COVID-19 was declared in Metro Manila, it caused distress among our employees, as they had thought that it may cost their jobs should things get out of control. It had been initially difficult to cope with the situation, given that everyone had been paranoid and fearful of the pandemic. To address this, we established safety measures within our office in compliance with the guidelines set by the government and health institutions. Although our operations have come to a halt due to the enhanced community quarantine, the company…

“SA PANAHON NA GANITO, TAYO AY DAPAT NAGTUTULUNGAN—HINDI NAG-AAGAWAN AT AWAYAN” I’m used to a busier lifestyle so it was kind of hard to adjust but I cope by just keeping myself busy whether it’s working out or reading. I always find something to do. When I go outside, I always make sure to wear a mask and keep my hands clean. I’ve realized the importance of hygiene and the impact of situations like this can have on our community and the world. Also the importance of spending time with your family—and especially with yourself. Nowadays, we are too busy with our lives and work that we don’t actually dedicate time to our personal growth. Sa mga kababayan natin, gawin natin yung hinihingi sa atin na hindi rin naman sobrang…

We have to admit, it is extremely difficult and nearly impossible to keep a firm grip on hope these days, especially at time riddled with grim uncertainty. As of press time, we are just about to clock out of the second week of the state-mandated enhanced community quarantine in a Hail Mary effort to flatten the curve of the menacing Covid-19 viral outbreak. Noticeably gone are the novelties of the lockdown and the apparent liberties of working from home. In its place are anxieties, fear, and acquiescence wearing down on our already withering souls. And with no apparent end to this gripping and alarming crisis, is this the new normal we will have to operate on for the foreseeable future? As tenacious human beings with more grit and verve than…

STYLE TIP Exercise poetic justice to such a straightforward trend by opting for layers of oversized silhouettes…

STREET FIGHTER Patent leather remains dominant as ever this season Red oversized bomber jacket and jersey sweater by KAYE MORALES, Leather corset by IRA PABLO, Rhinestone earrings by KLAD JEWELRY, Thigh high lace up boots by FOREVER21 STYLE TIP Stride with pride in red with faux croc leather…

THE LIST: 1 Printed silk-twill scarf by VALENTINO. 2 Wool blend blazer by ALEXANDER MCQUEEN. 3 Cutout ribbed stretch cotton tank by VETEMENTS. 4 Embossed neon leather shoulder bag by FENDI. 5 Embellished swimsuit by VERSACE. 6 Neon Twill Straight-leg pants by BALENCIAGA. 7 Orange Patent Love Heel by JIMMY CHOO. 8 Neon yellow backless court by TOPSHOP. 9 Pointed toe mule by CHARLES & KEITH. 10 Tailored dress by TOPSHOP. 11 Caged crossbody bag by CHARLES & KEITH. 12 Puffed sleeve bodysuit by BERSHKA. 13 Pleated jacket by ZARA. 14 Metal Frame Sunglasses by ZARA. STYLE TIP Pair up neon shades for a more exciting look…

ROXANNE ANG-FARILLAS OF PLAINS & PRINTS Plains & Prints recently celebrated its 25th anniversary in the retail industry. Surrounded by her collaborators, muses and the P&P team, Farillas shared her gratitude to all the women who supported the brand and who eventually become her inspiration to always push the envelope. When she started the business with her now-husband Erickson Farillas, she always maintained that fashion’s purpose was to empower women. This concept was translated into every collection the brand released. Signature P&P prints include fun prints, wearable silhouettes and the flexibility to be styled up or down, depending on the occasion. Designer collaborations has also helped the brand and its customers grow and be noticed by the industry. Through it all, Farillas has led with unprecedented success. By launching R.A.F…

When blood is shed and wars are waging, the common denominator of those who triumph are their weapons of choice. For the God of Thunder, it’s his Mjolnir. For The Bride in Kill Bill, it’s her samurai. And of course, for Katniss Everdeen, it’s her bow and arrow. For upcoming designer Patricia Samulde, it’s a needle and a thread and a vision of becoming the best in the field. As a child, Samulde was taught to sew clothes for her dolls by her grandmother. This skill proved to be the key that would open doors for her. Unlike others her age, her dreams have always been clear, and they fleshed themselves out as she got older. By the time she enrolled in design school, the goal was clear. “I want…

What is next? That’s the perpetual question we ask ourselves. In the middle of the city, the question is urgent and persistent. But in the country, away from the buzzing sounds and lights, time slows and the question quiets down. Perhaps this is why when we feel wrung out, the call of the wild is necessary for that sense of calm. In Travel, we feature two islands—Siargao and Boholboth of which have the power to enchant their visitors to stay forever. Speaking of getting away, our Forvm touches on the current reality, a pandemic that has changed our lives in a way none of us could’ve imagined. Where do we go from here? What’s next? In this section, we hope to give you pause and let you think beyond what’s…

My current work from home schedule looks something like this: I wake up, try to squeeze in a workout, attend to meetings or phone interviews, have lunch, go back to work, and read in my spare time. Throughout the day, I’m exchanging messages with my partner and a few times a week we have video calls on Skype. The funny thing is that we’re not in a long distance relationship (we live 13 miles apart). As I’m typing this, Metro Manila is on a community quarantine to combat the spread of COVID-19, and this has simply become the norm for many couples who don’t cohabit. None of us saw this coming. When the first few cases quickly grew to the first hundred, there was a sense of panic that was…

Walking from Poblacion to Rockwell one night, I bumped into a stranger who seemed rather lost. “Do you know where the new Test Kitchen is? It’s supposed to be around here,” he said hurriedly, adding that he was late for his dinner. Since I was heading the same direction as he was, we walked to One Rockwell together, where I saw the restaurant from afar for myself. His claims were true—The Test Kitchen was not in Kamagong, Makati anymore, but in a brand new neighborhood. It is an understatement to say that Josh Boutwood is one busy man. From managing his restaurants Helm and Savage, to serving as the corporate chef of The Bistro Group, many wonder how he always seems to manage a calm exterior. However, once you get…

MINIMUM EFFORT If you want a product to help make your complexion pop out, reach for the subtle but ultra shiny Butterlips Conditioning Color (P345) from local brand IN HER ELEMENT. With ingredients such as Bees Wax, Castor Oil, Vitamin E and Sunflower Oil, the product hydrates lips with a juicy wash of color—from clay brown to bright coral. SENSE AND SENSUALITY When NARS comes out with a scent, you can be sure it’s a statement. NARS Audacious Perfume (P9000), is exactly that: mysterious, provocative and uninhibitedly beautiful. It brings together the sweetness of white frangipani and the intoxicating allure of incense to create a fragrance that only a true NARS woman can wear. A careful spritz is all you need, as the scent is quite potent. Make sure you’re…

The quest for the perfect, youthful and re-energized eye has always been the dream for many us. While a plethora of products are readily available in the market, most of them unfortunately do not have the efficacy that we desire; worse, they are not even backed up by science. It is also not enough to have just a rejuvenated eye—it also has to be bright, like lit from within. It is with this demand that that luxury skincare brand La Prairie developed a special line, The White Caviar range. The range, which initially aimed to just brighten the eye, has since gone beyond, creating a product that does so much more. In 2019 the brand introduced the Equation of Light, which considers skin luminosity as a function of color and…

OFFICE BOUND "Summer isn’t really my season—I like being cool and dry so you’ll find me in the shade while everyone else is out in the sun. But even then, I like to make sure that I protect my skin. I love LAURA MERCIER Pure Canvas Primer Protecting (P2095), which offers broad spectrum sun protection and SPF 30, all housed in a cool, gel-cream formulation that feels featherweight even on the hottest of days. This is enough protection for a typical day at work, and in a pinch it’s easy to reapply should you need it. It contains vitamin C and E to keep skin moisturized, but not oily because it doesn’t contain silicone.” —PEEWEE REYES-ISIDRO, Editor-In-Chief WORK IT OUT "Working out and staying active are some of my favorite…

“ LET US ALL TRY TO HELP IN ANY WAY WE CAN. LET US ALSO BE CONSIDERATE, EMPATHIC, AND UNDERSTANDING OF OTHER PEOPLE’S SITUATIONS” This has got to be one of the biggest challenges we are all facing. This pandemic has made me realize how fortunate and blessed I am as an individual and how we can give and share our blessings to people in need in times of crisis. So I decided to start my own program called the DoNation Drive, which aims to give financial assistance to those in need, especially to those who are affected by the community lockdown. (No-work-no-pay employees, PUV drivers, vendors, etc.) We know how hard it is for these people to get through each day and all we want to do is to…

“ IPAGDASAL DIN NATIN ANG MGA TAONG NAG-BUBUWIS NG KANILANG BUHAY PARA SA ATING LAHAT ” I’m trying not to panic but sometimes I can’t help it. Being home is such a blessing, but under these circumstances it’s very hard not to worry or be scared. I’ve learned that life really is too short for us to take it for granted and that every single day is a blessing. Kaya natin ito. Kailangan lang natin manalig sa ating Panginoong Diyos. Ipagdasal din natin ang mga taong nag-bubuwis ng kanilang buhay para sa ating lahat. Mabuhay po kayong lahat, kami po ay saludo sa inyong kabayanihan.…

“ FIND OPPORTUNITY IN THIS CRISIS AND DON’T BE RULED BY FEAR ” I don’t think I have actually had the time to think about how the our new reality has affected me because I have had to put our business and its needs first. It has been incredibly challenging as a young leader to go through one of the biggest crises of our generation. At Sunnies, it was clear to us that we needed to put our people first. I’m comforted that this has brought us all so much closer to one another and has us working harder than ever. From a societal perspective, I think this will change us. It feels like a correction, a new world order. The lessons are endless and some still unrealized. I’m finding…

“YOU’RE NOT ALONE. STAY HOME, STAY SAFE, STAY WELL, AND STAY KIND” I have to admit and say that it is a struggle for me mentally. On top of my own fears about this virus, having traveled to the epicenter of it [Italy], I’m also dealing with the helpless and restless feeling of not being able to do much for my family, community and even myself, as I am on a strict quarantine to avoid possibly exposing it to my family if I do have it. What’s really helping me cope with the pandemic is positive thinking and the support of my loved ones. Through all this, my relationships have gotten stronger. I’m usually bad at keeping in touch with friends but lately I have been doing daily video calls,…

“ THERE’S ALWAYS A REASON FOR EVERYTHING.WE DON’T SEE IT NOW BUT EVENTUALLY IT WILL ALL FALL INTO PLACE ” I’m taking it one day at a time—literally. Quite frankly the days have gone by so fast. Each one has been so different, between helping out with relief efforts and spending time with my husband and kids. We’ve been doing our part by staying home, but also doing our best to help out the community—thanks to technology! What I’ve realized throughout this experience is that we’re all given the same amount of time in a day. What matters is what we do with it. Do we just sit and waste counting the days of boredom or do we step up and make a difference? I’ve really come to enjoy the…

“WE SHOULD ALL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR OUR ACTIONS—EVEN THE YOUNGER GENERATION WHO FEEL LIKE THEY’RE SOMEWHAT IMMUNE FROM THIS VIRUS” To be honest, I’m scared right now because of the daily increase of the infected. What also scares me is that no one knows when this is going to end. I feel like this can go on for months or even a year if it is not handled well. I just hope everyone cooperates. The most important lesson I learned is that we should all be responsible for our actions—even the younger generation who feel like they’re somewhat immune from this virus. In times like these we must all be selfless. Think about how our actions are going to affect others. No one is immune! Let’s all be responsible and…

“ NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE ESPECIALLY WITH GOD. WE MIGHT BE FACING DIFFICULTIES NOW BUT WE NEED TO BELIEVE THAT THROUGH PR AYERS HE WORKS MIR ACLES ” I always commit to a positive attitude.This helps me from being dragged down by the situation, especially when I hear the negative information. We can learn many things from this experience. First, we need to help each other—no matter how independent we are, we will need some sort of help along the way. Second, nothing is impossible especially with God. We might be facing difficulties now, but we need to believe that through prayers He works miracles. If we can help even in the the simplest way we can, please do. It will go along way. Stay strong, kapit lang tayo, sabi nga…

“ AS MUCH AS WE WANT TO BE IN CONTROL OF EVERYTHING, THIS PANDEMIC IS HUMBLING AND TEACHING US THAT WE’RE NOT ” It’s kind of hard and a lot of times it can be really frustrating, but when we take a step back and see how the whole world is being affected, we all need to realize that we have to be in this together. I like to start off my day by reading the Bible. A verse of scripture a day can make a big difference if you’re spiritual or religious. When I start overthinking and stressing about everything that’s happening, I pray. I catch my breath and talk to God. I meditate. I also like to help in ways that I can, even if it’s small like…

My family is typically Filipino. We are six siblings who have profound respect for our parents who grew up at a time with little to no luxuries and conveniences. They were very grounded and didn’t have illusions of grandeur like most people my generation. They believed in hard work, respecting elders, paying it forward and finishing the food on your plate. They hated waste. Instead of resting on weekends, we were asked to do two things: clean and pray. While I’m generally obedient, the spoiled me abhorred cleaning because it felt like a task of adults and hired help. What was the point of tidying up if the natural direction of form was chaos anyway? It was an absolute waste of time. On Sundays, we would be woken up early…

STYLE TIP Transcend the rules of seasons with silky separates in neutral, easy-to-pair tones…

STYLE TIP While it doesn’t claim to curb the virus, it can capture the main transmission through droplets, especially when a medical-grade or respiratory type is worn…