Índex per July 2018 a MEGA

No, Maine Mendoza didn’t necessarily go anywhere. In fact, she has been as consistently present and phenomenal as ever before. What we’re talking about is her much-awaited return to the pages of the magazine, especially since her last turn was under the Moroccan sun some two years ago. Well, as they always say, time favors the workings of destiny and its magical pace. A little wait and threshing of logistical details, we have come to this point—a celebration of a return, as well as chalking in another year in the industry she was thrust in years back. Today, Maine Mendoza is sprightly and self-assured, confidently hitting her stride in everything laid out for her the day—we are talking about video shoots, one-on-one interviews and of course, the photo shoot with…

STYLE TIP Juxtapose a metallic top under a textured turtle neck for that smooth day to night transition…

20s THE UNFOLDING Originally a traditional Japanese garment, kimonos are easily a sartorial choice for the lazy dresser STYLE TIP Drape the kimono over one shoulder for a contemporary touch 30s PEARL OF THE ORIENT Reveal just the right amount of skin exposure in thirty and flirty silhouettes STYLE TIP Easily one of the most popularly used fabrics, brocade has been known for its understated elegance since the Yuan dynasty 40s SILK OR SWIM No longer a bedroom staple, the silk robe’s sartorial edge shines light on sensual yet strong silhouettes STYLE TIP If you find pajamas sloppy, take the alternative route by opting for a printed long silk robe…

It takes a certain kind of courage to join today’s political climate and more than anything else, a passion for service is the most essential. That same passion was Sharee Tan’s driving force to be the governor of Samar. “I had no idea I will be in politics, even if my mother was already governor when I was in college,” she admits. “However, my exposure to the community made me realize that they were looking for a leader who will listen to them and heed their call for a change.” Starting her political career in 2007 as the representative of the 2nd district, she would soon become governor in 2010. Her main focus on her first foray was on social services, as she made changes in healthcare, hospital administration and…

When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade. Here at MEGA, we prefer ours with a shot of booze and hint of fizz. After all, why make it sweet when it can be spiked? Leading the charge is this month’s Forvm, where Associate Editor Angelo Ramirez de Cartagena writes about sharing his feelings online and why he’ll keep doing it despite the internet’s increasingly antagonistic call-out culture. In Feature Story, PR wonder girl Vanessa Vergara shares her story on diving off the deep end literally with her move from corporate life to swimming with sharks and saving the oceans. In Home, we visit Curio Cavern and Nordik Concepts, style star Camille Co and Joni Koro’s brand new, curated (but of course) niche furniture stores. Pour yourself a strong one, because…

When Scandinavian design is mentioned, what typically comes to mind? While simple, minimalistic and functional are adjectives often associated with the distinguished design movement, it has also grown to be much more than that over the years. Joni Koro of Nordik Concept and Curio Cavern wants us to understand just that, giving us a clearer picture of what it is. “Generally speaking, Scandinavian design usually represents clean lines, light structures and incorporates a lot of earthy features, from wood to leather. While people typically perceive it as such, we also have a lot of luxurious pieces, as seen in our brands,” Koro says as he shows us his favorites from Curio Cavern, which includes AYTM’s Circum Round Mirrors and Gubi’s Adnet mirror with its signature buckle strap. The name of…

MATTE MOVEMENT Who said matte was out? Make a statement in an eye-catching green hue such as ANNY in Funky Little Dude (P495) and finish off with OPI Matte Top Coat (P595). For a little more oomph, embellish your fingers with as many gems as you please. MOONSTRUCK For that galactic touch, sporting pointy, holographic nails will definitely do the trick. While Extraordinail offers a holographic powder that has to be rubbed on the nails, you can also opt for simpler DIY methods at home. Try REVLON Transforming Effects Top Coat in Holographic Pearls (P250) then afterwards, moisturize with the new FRESH Hesperides Grapefruit Moisturizing Hand Cream (P790). ALL IN THE DETAILS The smallest details, such as dots in a variety of colors and sizes, can easily turn heads. To…

Amid the sea of faces at every beauty event, there is always that woman whose skincare routine you’re dying to know. Standing tall and confident with skin that gleams golden, Erika Reyes is one of those women for many of us. As a Jo Malone London and La Mer’s Marketing Executive, Reyes juggles a variety of tasks on a daily basis. Since she is a morning person, she’s up and buzzing at an hour when most of us are still having coffee. “I start my work day by coming in work at around 7:30 AM, since my role requires me to be mostly office-based. If we do have any upcoming events, however, you can find me in and out of the office doing ocular visits and meetings.” Like many people…

f there is anything we have come to realize I in this highly complex, multi-faceted and interdisciplinary world we live in, it is that it is almost impossible to draw a conclusion on just face value or scientifically, an assumption. This is why the canons of Physics, one that fundamentally governs the motions we take for granted, is made law. Veritable conclusions based on years and years of microscopic observations and tedious experiments are twisted, tossed and turned just to accept the veracity thereof. The subsequent validation merits these once-upon-a-time ideals, hypotheses and theoretical systems a place in the lifetime doctrines that the world moving forward will supposedly build on. While it is for the most part a work in progress, there are the essentials that remain at the epicenter,…

Matteo Guidicelli is a very busy man. Aside from chalking in hours of taping for the teleserye, Bagani, he is also managing a restaurant business (Trattoria Da Gianni) down south of the metro, running races as an Ironman and now, getting down into the intricacies of denim in a creative collaboration with designer Avel Bacudio. All this, he does while maintaining a balanced personal life, which of course, he keeps to himself. That and he cannot go on a few minutes without breaking into a smile and fit of laughter. Wrapping up a quick shoot prior, he shifts into a mood befitting the creative brief for his MEGA Man cover—brooding, a little undone and introspective. We figured, that at this point of his life, he has taken to clipping the…

In every good man’s closet is a good pair of jeans. (Go ahead, get yourself a pair. But we do suggest reading the rest of this story first before doing so.) If there is anything to be learned from the past 145 years, it is that denim jeans can be used anytime, anywhere, and with virtually anything. And yes, it can last you a lifetime. Intrigued and inspired by this enduring quality, as well as the craftsmanship that goes into a classic pair, Matteo Guidicelli does not just own a pair of jeans. Today, he is a co-designer of a whole denim line. Impressed? So are we, and with good reason, too. But wait, didn’t he start as a racer? Yes. He’s also the triathlete? Also, yes. Isn’t he the…

PARTY ON Guests and personalities danced the rest of the night away at the new Armani Exchange boutique One of the leading fashion and luxury brands in the world, Armani Exchange launched its spring/summer 2018 Collection with a roster of new ambassadors namely: model and influencer Jennica Sanchez, actor Ethan Salvador and actor and lifestyle host Mikael Daez. The event, which was held in their new boutique at the Power Plant Mall, boasts of the design concept that is seen globally. The new collection is comprised of Armani Exchange’s staples such as shirts, denims and separates along with accessories, bags and footwear. How does one exude Armani’s new energy and same spirit? Since the 90s, the label has been making iconic men’s and women’s clothes such as jeans and t-shirts…

Dear MEGA, June has always been my favorite issue of your magazine ever since you had Regine Velasquez on the cover back in 2010 wearing just a T-shirt and couture pieces. For me, that was an iconic fashion moment that really gave a statement on Pinoy Pride—literally. Speaking of pride, while we celebrate this momentous event in Philippine history in the hopes of instilling the value and worth of what our forefathers have fought to achieve, we are also here to inspire the younger generation to continue improving the lives of our nation in whatever field or industry we can contribute to. Congratulations, MEGA, for another stellar list of New PH Awardees this 2018—they were nothing short of exceptional. By giving recognition to millennials making a difference in our current…

Luxury can be a divisive word. Traditionally, it’s about owning things that aren’t technically a necessity, but in the changing times, luxury has shifted our sights from acquiring possessions to acquiring experiences, specifically in our current generation. More and more, we begin to realize that luxury has a much simpler meaning, focusing on the personal quality of life rather than its tangible counterparts. Although to some, it may speak volumes of privilege and unattainability, one that only a few can achieve but at the same time, what’s wrong with that? This month, MEGA flips both sides of the coin with life’s luxuries as we explore pre-fall’s hottest trends from gilded confections, gathered fabrics, to shapeless yet elegant dresses in Best Buys. We shine a light on Rosenthal Tee’s ethereal and…

STYLE TIP Breathe life into a color-blocked outfit by opting for crazy patterns in accessories…

VANIA ROMOFF Vania Romoff’s effervescent pret-a-porter line has beenlongoverdue.Behindalltheruffles,thedainty details, the smocking and the bows she’s well-known for, it was blood, sweat and tears that got her to where she is right now. Growing alongside her first child is her newest “baby,” and it’s hard to believe that it’s her first endeavor into the retail industry. A single stroll inside Vania’s store makes you fall in love immediately with her romantic flair. “You’ll always see a touch of femininity and romance, gold details. Very minimal, nothing ostentatious as I don’t want the clothes to be overpowered by the place,” she shares during the launch. On finally branching out to women of all ages, Vania’s ready-to-wear line aims to cater especially to those who don’t have the time to book an…

“Can you set your emotions aside for once?” a colleague sharply tells me as we discussed a matter where we were at opposite spectrums of. This didn’t necessarily shock me, as at this point of my grown-ass life, I’ve heard every possible iteration of “Lighten up, will you?”, “Feelings again?” and my absolute favorite, “Why don’t you shut up and keep these things to yourself.” Who am I to argue or deny the truth? I am highly sensitive, unapologetically emotional and debilitatingly empathic. Yes, I’ve been called out for being too dramatic more than once and I will cry to just about anything. (Between you and me, I bawled while watching the seemingly silent struggle at the cockpit between Diana and Steve Trevor during the final stretch of the film,…

Soft spoken, slight of built and eternally boyish, John Pagaduan’s looks and demeanor belie his enormous talent, time-honed skills and tenure in the industry. He may look like a fresh-faced graduate, but make no mistake, this guy is the quintessential pro and his work has appeared in all the top magazines in the country, graced numerous advertisements and adorned the exquisitely beautiful faces of many actresses, models and personalities. Like a similarly baby-faced rock icon, Pagaduan continues to thrive in a scene that is vastly different from when he started. Pagaduan is widely recognized as one of the original artists of Shu Uemura, the beloved makeup brand that started the careers of many of the Philippines’ top artists. In fact, his work is so entwined with the brand that when…

FASHION ALEXANDER MCQUEEN , Shangri-la PlazaMall,Rustan’sMakati; BALENCIAGA , Greenbelt 5; BENCH , Power Plant Mall, SM Mall of Asia, SM Aura, SM Makati, SM Megamall; BERSHKA , Glorietta 2, SM Megamall; BVLGARI , Greenbelt 4, Rustan’s Makati, Shangri-la Plaza Mall; CALVIN KLEIN, Greenbelt 5, Shangrila Plaza Mall, SM Megamall; CHARLES & KEITH , SM Megamall, Power Plant Mall; CHARRIOL , Greenbelt 5; CHLOÈ , Adora Greenbelt 5; DISTINQT , <4/F PCCI Building, L.P., Leviste St., Salcedo Village, Makati>; FENDI , Shangri-la Plaza Mall; FOREVER 21 , SM Mall of Asia, SM Aura, SM Makati, SM Megamall; GIVENCHY , Shangri-la Plaza Mall, Greenbelt 4; GUCCI , Greenbelt 4, Shangri-la Plaza Mall; H&M , SM Southmall, SM Makati, SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, Uptown Mall; JIMMY CHOO , Shangri-la Plaza Mall,…

STYLE TIP While keeping cool, add a touch of grown up balance by pairing the outdoor-appropriate threads with tailored pieces…

Superb. One great reunion indeed. Stunning beauties beyond generations.—@belotz16 on MEGA June 2018 via Gabbi is the only international commercial model in this group. You can actually hand pick her just like that. She doesn’t need to do extra, just sit, relax and voila, Gabbi slayed here. Way to go.—@pretty_mwahugs on MEGA June 2018 via The stunning beauty of Kisses always shines.—@fridaomp26on MEGA June 2018 via You never fail to inspire me, Nadine. Success wasn’t easy for you at all yet there you are. —@pumpkinwolves on MEGA June 2018 via This is perfect. The queen, @iammajasalvador is above them all!—@queenofgd on MEGA June 2018 via Wow.The multi -talented girl in the Philippines. From simple girl, transformed into a super model. No one else. Only #MaymayEntrata—@gingbanga on MEGA June 2018 via…

STYLE TIP Let strategic prints give off the illusion of shape, preferably in bright and bold colors…

Who says fashion and business don’t go hand in hand? Some say it’s all a matter of supply-and-demand and such is the predicament of Neelam Gopwani, the President of luxury eyewear boutique Eye Society. With celebrated brands such as Ray Ban, Prada and Versace to name a few at their helm, the 27-year old entrepreneur never considered herself stylish despite the jet-setting and elusive lifestyle she has, flying from one country to another for several engagements, including prestigious invitations to fashion week in Milan. “It’s always been comfort above everything else,” she gushes. “I’m very easy going.” Despite her exhausting schedule, Neelam possesses a naturally calm demeanor, a rare attribute not everyone can master. The success of Eye Society has been unprecedented, meteoric and unswerving as more and more people…

Making a name in the vast industry of Philippine haute couture, Manila-based designer Rosenthal Tee has since taken the international fashion scene by storm. In a span of only four years, she has made astounding achievements so early in her career and has gained respect from distinguished designers both here and abroad. Her achievements include being a part of Marry Me At Marriott Bridal, one of the most anticipated annual bridal shows in the country. Interetingly, she is the youngest Filipino designer to take part in the Mercedez-Benz STYLO Asia Fashion Week held in Kuala Lumpur in 2015, and she was also given the opportunity to showcase her creations in New York Fashion Week—not once but twice. “I think that fashion design is an organic sort of love that I…

“Then close your eyes and tap your heels together three times. And think to yourself, ‘There’s no place like home,’” and so goes the good witch Glinda to a post-epiphany Dorothy in the seminal classic, The Wizard of Oz. It is true, nothing compares to walking past the final barricade of an entire day gone by, shedding all decorative layers and just surrendering to the safety of one’s home—the place that was reinforced as the most protected of environments growing up. However, despite the best of intentions and a most watchful eye (hi, mom), no space will ever be truly immaculately clean. In fact, science has brought to our attention the shocking fact that pollutants can build up even indoors, 5 times worse than the harrowing mix of smog we…

Beauty and luxury have always gone hand in hand. Whether times are good or otherwise, there’s always a lipstick for it. This is why, in this month’s luxury issue, we celebrate life’s little indulgences, whether it’s treating yourself to a new perfume (we recommend the new one from Hermès), finally getting that procedure at the Aivee Institute (MEGA EIC Peewee Reyes-Isidro tries Xeomin), or spending an afternoon getting dragon lady nails just because you feel like it (see Rulebook). We can all use a weekend that requires nothing more from us than sauntering from one spa treatment to the next in our Turkish cotton bathrobes, but perhaps an extra five minutes in the shower trying out a new hair scrub or simply having our coffee “for here” instead of “to…

Maximalist fashion is back—in a big way. Think statement accessories, bold patterns and even bolder colors. What’s the best way to showcase this “more is more” trend? With a fit and healthy physique, of course. But given our temptation-riddled, stressful and time-constrained lifestyles, how do we achieve maximalist chic using minimalist measures? MAX OUT YOUR BODY DETOXIFY Stress bombards the body with toxins, hindering it from working properly and preventing it from losing weight. Toxins can be flushed out with EFLA920/ Yerba Mate, a natural substance derived from green mate leaf. This facilitates weight loss and increases energy by suppressing appetite, reducing fat absorption and converting fat into fuel for the body. It also heightens physical and mental performance, gives antioxidant protection from aging free radicals and stimulates the metabolic…

When you are in your twenties, you hardly notice signs of aging. However, when you hit your thirties, you suddenly notice that you look old, worn out and haggard—with fine lines, wrinkles and crows feet seemingly appearing from nowhere. And if you can only turn back time, I’m sure you would wish you slathered on those anti-aging products, slept earlier or skipped that drink that gave you a major hangover. Let’s face it, life is stressful and whether you like it or not, age will catch up with you. Anti-aging products are a big help, but sometimes you need something that delivers instant and long-lasting results. “LET’S FACE IT, LIFE IS STRESSFUL AND WHETHER YOU LIKE IT OR NOT, AGE WILL CATCH UP WITH YOU” LUNCH TIME PROCEDURE A popular…

BLURRED LINES Today’s luxury is in quite a mix-up. The infusion of streetwear especially to many runway collections blurs the line of luxury. The price of a hoodie goes up to more than P40,000+, same as a leather shoulder bag from Calvin Klein 205W39NYC! What is luxury then? Or do we even need a definition? We pore over the state of luxury in our July 2018 issue. Gucci is one of the classic luxury houses that perfectly combined street with maximalism. From logo tees to luxurious embroidery, we show you a new side to luxury with Asia’s biggest influencers in Asian Persuasion. We celebrate luxury on a different level with Maine Mendoza as she enjoys both the spotlight and her private life in her third year in the industry. Clad…

I have an addiction to well-designed and well-made shoes particularly loafers. I recall seeing an old photograph of myself—I must have been 10 years old then. What I do remember was I put together that look because it was my favorite style. In the photograph, I was sporting a bowl haircut which was relevant then. I was also wearing a black pique polo shirt, white Bermuda shorts and black moccasins. Twenty years later, things haven’t changed, because I still buy loafers. I was obsessed with the classic suede Gomminos by Tod’s. I have them in black, brown, gray and even cherry red. Lately, I’m into patent ones with hardware. I love my Givenchy loafers with a metal plate and my Saint Laurent’s with tassels. On a recent trip to Hong…

JO MALONE LONDON Tropical Cherimoya Vibrant and fittingly flamboyant, the Tropical Cherimoya Cologne by Jo Malone London perfectly captures the spirit of a summer eternal. Careening out of the drawl of a languid countryside, the brand whisks us to the bold and energetic locale of Brazil where the cacophony of sounds and mix of scents come together in unity with the latest offering. A fresh and biting fruity fragrance, the Tropical Cherimoya features the core cherimoya fruit, as well as copahu resin, pear, apple, bergamot and creamy tonka bean. Sink your teeth into this mouthwatering scent and carry on the sprightly summer spirit for as long as you want to. CALVIN KLEIN Obsessed Intense Try hard as you may, forgetting the linger of an intense first kind of love is…

NIGHT OUT The month’s cover stars, as well as personalities and influencers partied the night away A culmination of the summer body issue, MEGA Man and EuphoriaMaxx throwed a hip, happening, and humidity-be-damned party at The Island that celebrated fashion, fitness and finally, the roster Best Bodies of 2018. Right in the middle of the sprawling Palace complex stood the newly renovated The Island, an oasis complete with lush greenery, themed cabanas and of course, glistening pools of water that served as a respite to the uncharacteristic warmth that night. A perfect backdrop for a thumping summer party, it played host to the MEGA Man X EuphoriaMaxx Best Bodies 2018 party. A culmination of the month’s focus on fashion and fitness, it was not only a celebration of the best…

STYLE TIP It’s time to break out of the safe zone and wear stripes with other patterns in similar tones…