Table of contents for May 2022 in MEGA

This month, we explore the concept of Metaverse. But what is it exactly? Simply put, metaverse is a virtual reality space where users can interact in a computer-generated environment. In short, it is a digital space where one can play, work, shop, and socialize—do the things they do in real life. While many giant tech brands have built their own virtual reality platforms and have popular followings, fashion has quickly caught up and is establishing its presence by way of products and virtual experience offerings. It’s quickly gaining momentum and hype, so obviously everyone wants in on it. But where does the appeal lie exactly? For some, it’s the hyperreal experience, where everything is in high resolution and limitless. For others, it’s about making money and growing investments, and for…

Three years ago in Japan, Cyrille Vigneron, the president and chief executive officer of Cartier, and Chitose Abe, designer and founder of Sacai, embarked on a creative exploration. These exchanges eventually led to six designs that best reflected their common vision. This artistic encounter between the Cartier and Sacai powerhouses started a new era for the Trinity collection. The Cartier designers took the simplicity and mobility of the Trinity ring as the basis for deconstructing and reinventing the collection to achieve a new kind of balance. Through six modular pieces that explored the ring’s creative potential, the wearer’s style is re-invented without ever compromising elegance. Two rings, a bracelet, a choker, an earring, and a versatile piece that is both an earring and a ring—the Trinity surprises every time. The…

When you’re raised in a culture of religiosity and conservative ideals, there’s a certain limit up to which you can freely express yourself, particularly through your craft. But UK-based Filipino designer Jessan Macatangay knew all too well that it was time to flourish beyond traditions, and embrace a bolder, freer way of asserting one’s individuality. Before becoming the acclaimed artist that he is today, Macatangay was a licensed nurse in the Philippines. He had no idea what he wanted to do after graduating from high school since he liked a lot of things, but couldn’t figure out exactly what to pursue. The idea of taking up nursing was suggested by his mother—but his heart really wasn’t in the practice. After he got his Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) license, the young…

The fashion industry may be meticulously gearing itself to take on the metaverse, but there’s still a long way to go to future-proof the fashion industry and make it all-inclusive. To really get the best out of the metaverse, there’s a need for devices that support such high-graphic content. Smaller brands may also lack resources or incentives to participate in the metaverse, unlike the big houses in fashion—in the same way that digital front rows and exclusive after-parties are just mimicking on-ground events’ patronization of the wealthy and powerful. This divisive gap between the opulent and the average is retained, only this time, a massive value is placed on digital assets. It’s indisputable that the metaverse’s existence is gaining a foothold in fashion, and that its potential to be the…

According to COMELEC (Commission on Elections), at least 65.7 million people are expected to cast their vote for the 2022 Philippine Elections on May 9. This is why during the past few months, the talk of the town–whether it’s on the streets or on social media–has been all about the women and men running for a position in government. Aside from your standard posters, pamphlets and tarpaulins with a candidate’s face and ballot number being passed around, you can also find online an entire wardrobe’s worth of fan-made merchandise, including t-shirts and caps, and edited videos of these politicians’ “cute” moments. While there is nothing wrong with supporting a candidate, danger comes when a politician is being treated like a celebrity more than a government leader. This is when people…

1 SMOOTH OPERATOR With sexual wellness entering mainstream beauty, buying your first intimate product can be embarrassing and downright confusing. But sisters and cousins Isabelle Daza, Ava Daza, and Martine Ho are here to take out that embarrassment, and create a safe space around sex and pleasure with their latest brand JELLYTIME. The first product they launched is an all-natural water-based personal lubricant (P295) that one can enjoy alone or with a partner. Made with water, aloe vera, and hyaluronic acid, it’s not too sticky, not too thick, and gives a comfortable and cooling feel. It’s also made with citric acid for a PH-balanced formula. Plus, it comes in a chic and minimalist squeeze bottle that won’t raise eyebrows when you leave it on your nightstand. 2 GENTLE TOUCH Perfect…

How did you overcome the initial challenges of entering the industry? JO: One of the challenges that I faced when I first entered the industry is people not believing in my capabilities just because I’m new and just starting my career. To overcome this, I just continued doing what I love and growing as a hairstylist to prove to them that I am more than what they think I am. CR: I’m a very shy person. I’m not much of a talker especially when I’m in a crowd of strangers. So, I had to overcome my anxiety so I can work and communicate with a team of creatives to make the look the best it could be. I also surround myself with people that I vibe with and that helps…

FEELING CHEEKY Every woman should have red blush in her arsenal. Both vibrant and mimics blushing from within, the shade works whether you wear it as a soft tint or as an element of a high-contrast look FRENCH KISS If you aren’t ready to commit to a full pout, apply a lip stain directly on the inner part of the lips and fade it out using your fingers for a just-bitten look LOVE LUST Putting on a red lip or a red dress is one way to a person’s heart, so why not extend the hue’s mesmerizing effect to your eye makeup? Here, a striking red liner is balanced out with silky skin to keep the attention on the eyes FEVER PITCH Not in the mood for a full beat?…

There are hints of that as she walks inside a Makati City studio one Wednesday morning: purposeful and calm in her walk, yet awkward and shy in demeanor—an indistinct enigma. She later admits during our interview that those contradictions are a product of years of concealing and ignoring her life’s demons and baggage, and finally, facing them head-on during a recent spiritual awakening. Inside her, there are always forces that push and pull at the same time, especially when it comes to living life under the spotlight. As we engage with the model-actress-beauty queen, she reinforces our belief that we found in her the ideal muse, who could represent the ideas we want to portray is this month’s cover: the idea of the unknown, of the hard-to-define, of going against…

Hannah Arnold, our reigning Miss International Philippines 2021, looks ready for a whimsical carnation-inspired spring fashion. In front of the lens of Seven Barretto, the Filipina beauty stars in a cherry-blossom-inspired fashion spread. Hannah looks absolutely stunning in colorful blooms and effervescent makeup looks by Carissa Cielo Medved. Styled by Paris Roxas, Hannah wears the designs of Francis Libiran, Jan Garcia, Rian Fernandez, among others. PASTEL POWER Get creative in pastel hues and sinuous floral printed sheer that’s fit for a goddess STYLIST’S NOTE: Paris Roxas states, “We made sure that the colors of the wardrobe are fresh and soft in the eyes so it will still look light and airy. The goal is, as if you can smell the cherry blossoms while flipping through the pages of the magazine.”…

By definition, sustainability is when you reuse the natural resources you take or replace them with new natural resources, thus maintaining some form of balance in this big blue planet we call home. For all industries, the road to sustainability touches on everything, from how products are made, to a shift in the habits and attitudes of the people who make and buy those products. If you look at our current relationship with the fashion industry, we are massively influenced by many things, from trends, to bloggers, to price. Nowadays, we’re throwing clothes away after only one or two wears (thanks to Instagram and our innate fear of being seen in the same thing more than once). In return, the effects of this on the environment are colossal: last year,…

Launched in March, Mich Dulce’s Assemblage 002 is a modular set of three clothing pieces: a terno bolero, an apron, and a belt. Rendered in piña fabric, each piece can be worn individually or layered together, allowing for different looks that highlight the elegance of the modern Filipina. The clothes are complemented by the tropical-themed headpieces that can be updated with various veils. All of the headpieces are made of T’nalak, a traditional material made from abaca and handwoven by the T’boli community from Lake Sebu, South Cotabato. “Assemblage is a new concept that I launched quietly last year just through my social media,” says Dulce. A move beyond seasonal collections, Assemblage brings together a curated mix of Dulce’s designs, allowing her brand to remain consistently creative, revisit past pieces,…

1 BEAUTY BOOST Want to achieve that glass skin on your favorite Korean actresses and stars? MAC Cosmetics Lightful C3 Collection is back, and it’s bigger and brighter than ever. Fronted by their global ambassador, Lisa of the popular K-pop band BlackPink, the revamped line is composed of skincare and makeup that focus on giving your skin a lasting, glowing radiance. The collection uses three main ingredients across the line: vitamin C, coral grass, and cherry blossom. Over time, these ingredients will help skin stay protected and hydrated, and appear smoother, plumped, and more toned and radiant. Popular favorites are the Quick Finish Cushion Compact SPF 50/PA++++ (P2550) and Coral Grass Tinted Primer SPF44/PA++++ (P2700), both of which are infused with a blend of pink pearls—for an immediate natural and…

From sauntering along with tradition to pursuing innovation, fashion is now advancing into the future. As artists and designers veer from long-established design concepts and now freely embrace differences and individualist ideals, style has become bolder, more experimental, and unconventional. The world has become an open space to forge new standards and create art that has never been seen before, much less welcomed. With the era of metaverse seeping into the foundations of society—including fashion and beauty—do you dare to become part of it?…

Over the past years, as we battled isolation and dabbled in various do-it-yourself crafts and hobbies, our heightened appreciation toward homegrown fashion made us realize the emotional and artisanal value of products made using age-old techniques and skills—some of which have been passed down from generation to generation. These brands not only encapsulate a balance of modernity, but also invoke a great deal of introspection, reflection, and nostalgia in the products they make. The past informs our future, but our choices weave the future into reality, making the present the one that matters most. 1 Most Definitely Filipino! Progressively unique and homegrown, ORIAS Essentials prides itself in being truly a one-of-a-kind Filipino sartorial lifestyle brand that promotes sustainability, circularity, inclusivity and the Filipino inventiveness. With their straightforward design that aims…

Keeping the hope alive may be the hardest part of surviving such challenging times but this month can hold a new beginning for ourselves and the country. With that said, a new beginning doesn’t have to be big. It doesn’t have to be grand, or end a pivotal phase. Sometimes it’s as simple as learning from the past to move forward. With the upcoming national elections dictating the future of the country, we underline, in Forvm, the importance of every Filipino reclaiming their role as an active contributor to the government and not simply as devotees of political candidates. Meanwhile, in Feature Story, we take a closer look at the famous Bridgerton series. Despite being a period drama, the actresses are able to show how a woman does not have…

Going through the beauty sections of this month, you’ll find one common thread: a desire to create and act with purpose. Gone are the days when we would only care about pretty packaging or color pay-off. Alongside longstanding beauty brands are conscious consumers, who are evolving to create a more inclusive world for this generation and all those who will come after. From a local brand that’s sending out a powerful, pleasure-positive message to the editors’ favorite products that help lessen their carbon footprint, discover them all in Hot & Fresh and Tried & Tested, respectively. Meanwhile, in Main Beauty, dare to rewrite makeup rules with sophisticated but striking red-hot makeup. Lastly, in Artist Confidential, meet the rising hairstylists who are challenging the old ways of competition and turning them…

Beauty is having a moment. We have gone through years of makeup and hair needing to look flawless, but today’s youth is bringing back the total freedom and joy that comes with expressing our identity through how we look. When it comes to hair, leave it to our up-and-coming hairstylists to shake up old beauty rules and unlock a whole new door to hairstyle possibilities. Some can make a blown-out mane look effortless, while others are experimenting with what our trusty straightening iron can create. But one thing they do have in common is that they are pushing the conversation around hair in ways both awe-inspiring and audacious. By taking what they learned from their mentors and creating their own techniques, their work is going beyond the surface of superficiality…

QUIET EDGE If you’re not quite ready to say goodbye to your trusty black eyeliner, you can always combine it with other colors. Contrast a white liner on the lid by adding black eyeliner on the lower lash line to create a sultry and sixties look LOOKING UP Amp up your regular feline flick with double wings. Create a thick cat eye, followed by a thinner line drawn on the lower lashes to make your eyes appear bigger and awake SUBTLE IMPACT White is synonymous with looking clean, so when used in graphic eye looks, keep your base light and translucent, that way your eyes become the fresh punctuation point of your face…

How does one become a modern trailblazer? You have two choices: be swept by the current or follow your own map. Which way do you go? This May, we rise above the sea of trends and look at the horizon of endless possibilities. Life’s a grandiose party, and Cheetah Rivera embodies just that as she gives us an exclusive peek at her Spring/ Summer 2022 line. With new hope flourishing, take a step into the season of blooms in Main Fashion, and embrace the power of red hues in Main Beauty. And if you’re still not persuaded to boldly chase your own fate, actress, model, and beauty queen Maureen Wroblewitz will inspire you to be at the new frontier—a space that is adaptable, fearless, and sublime.…

Feeling the onslaught of prolonged lockdowns and restrictions dampening her creativity, Cheetah Rivera dove head-on into a two-year outburst of limitless passion, producing a collection of individually independent, sustainability . In true creative fashion, her collection, aptly called “Pizza Party,” started as an idea born over pizzas and movies, during a staycation with her closest friends. A moment of introspection and appreciation inspired her to take the leap of faith and make use of available deadstock fabrics, trimmings, and materials left from previous collections in her atelier, and create a fantastical world wherein couture reigns supreme. Known for her designs that have a distinct female energy, Rivera’s aesthetic purposely pulsates vibrant yet edgy, classic yet lustrous sensuality fit for her muses, namely Regine Velasquez, Heart Evangelista, and Marie Lozano, who…

FASHION CARTIER , Greenbelt 4, Ayala Malls; BVLGARI , Greenbelt 3, Rustan’s Makati, Shangri-La Plaza Mall, Solaire Resort & Casino; FEEL GOLD MNL <instagram.com/feelgoldmnl>; SACAI <www.sacai.jp> DESIGNER ANTONINA AMONCIO <www.anto-nina.com>; CHEETAH RIVERA <instagram.com/cheetahriverastudio>; CHARMING BALDEMOR <instagram.com/charming_baldemor>; DANSE LENTE <www.danselente.com>; DARYL MAAT <instagram.com/darylmaat>; JAZMIN MEGAN <instagram.com/vlrqbyvilrique>; JESSAN MACATANGAY <www.jessanmacatangay.com>; JET RIVERO <instagram.com/jetrivero>; MICH DULCE <www.michdulce.com>; ORIAS <www.orias.ph>; REJINA PYO <www.rejinapyo.com>; RICARDO PRETO <www.ricardopreto.com>; ROEL ROSAL <instagram.com/roelrosal>; TRUDE LIZARES <www.trudelizares.com>; VIL RIQUE <instagram.com/vlrqbyvilrique> BEAUTY AESOP Greenbelt 5, Power Plant Mall, web <aesopskincare.ph>; DIOR , Dior Boutique SM Makati, The Podium Mall, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Shangri-La Plaza Mall, SM Mall of Asia, SM Aura Premier, web <rustans.com>; JELLYTIME , web <itsjellytime.com, lazada.com.ph, shopee.ph>; LANA , web <lana.ph>; L’OCCITANE Rustan’s Makati, Rustan’s Shangri-la Plaza Mall; MAC COSMETICS , Alabang Town Center, Rustan’s Makati,…