STYLE AND IMAGE

 

 

Fashion styling is one of the fast growing careers in this modern day and age. Given the power and influence of tri-media and online channels, most industries have invested more attention and effort in brand and image. Part of marketing and advertising brands is communicating values and image to your audience by way of visuals and imagery. Both require expertise in putting together style elements into one set, putting a scene into life by way of providing all the essentials, including wardrobe, that each set up requires. This is where a stylist comes in handy. 

 

 

Pam Quiñones, Liz Uy, Rainier Dagala… These are just few of the names that ring a bell when the term fashion styling comes to mind. The demand for fashion stylists originated from the need for a professional and creative eye to help improve a person or a company’s image and conceptualize ideas for commercials, film productions and magazine shoots. Most of the people of this profession work freelance while some are employed in publishing and events companies, advertising agencies, fashion designers, retail brands, etc.  

 

In Durianburg, one of the many who are slowly creating a name for himself/herself is Angela “Ella” Canave Anung, a 24-year old Accountancy graduate. Her foray into the fashion scene proved to be a sensible choice as she had always been fascinated with clothing design as early as high school age. “I knew where my passion lies, so I summed up my guts to do some self-study and email professional stylists for tips and info on how to make a career in fashion,” says Ella. “I also messaged photographers and designers in town, offered them my services as stylist for their pictorials. I knew I had to establish myself first by creating a good portfolio to show everyone what I can do.” Soon, Ella got calls from clients asking for her help in engagement shoot while some are for collaborative work for magazine and portrait shoots.

“When I do styling projects/stints, I always ask for the theme and peg of the shoot, considering the point of view of the photographer and client. Then I ask about the personalities of the subject/s or model/s. Are they comfortable wearing anything or they just want to stick on a certain type of selections?  It’s also important to see the model, or at least a full body photo, so I can be familiar with the body type I’m going to style. I, then, create the ideal shape for the subject/model. The purpose is to find a focal point and come up with a creative style that falls at a flattering angle. For example, exposing skin below your neck down to the boob cleavage can finely draw the eye downward, giving an illusion of a longer upper body silhouette. From there, I research for ideas on how to make the peg unique and attention worthy (e.g. poses, hair and makeup, lighting, clothing textures, possible props, etc.). After that, I scout, gather and produce the props needed.”

Sharing her insights on the modern day woman, Ella takes into consideration a utilitarian wardrobe to complement the versatile woman in this cosmopolitan world. “A modern woman has a classic sophistication which can get her through the many seasons without sacrificing comfort and function. She follows her instincts and I believe we are more knowledgeable of which cuts and prints flatter her curves and smile. She is able to pull off a look and make it seem effortless for her.”

 

(Photos by Paul Borromeo of Leadfoto Studios)

Style tips from Ella:

Corporate Wear  “Remember, you want to look respectable and stylish. You can always play with colors (such as teal, burgundy, plum) and prints (stripes, bold patterns) -- though for me it’s best to keep your colors in the same hue but different shades. Neutrals are your best friend. Choose flats or heels either but best to say no to embellishments, gems, or anything with glitters.”

 

Cockatail Events“Keep your look somewhere between low-key and posh. You don’t want to look like a walking chandelier, ey? But before choosing your wardrobe, know the theme of the event. Keep your skirt length at knee-low or mid-thigh high (at most).”

 

Street Casual “Your best weapon is your personality.  Whatever you want to echo when you’re out in the streets or just strolling in the mall, go for it. Mix and match if you want, just keep everything in moderate. Let’s say, there’s wrong with print on print; as long as it doesn’t blind the eyes. Or button-downs paired with a leather pencil skirt paired with sneakers are quick fixes for you. Just take note, street casual calls for a laidback and effortless flair.”

Formal “Understand the dress code. Consider wearing clothes that can be dressed up or dressed down. If you think you’re overly dressed, convert your look to a semi-formal one by maybe removing an accessory or removing the tie for men and opening one button on top. I encourage ladies to fit their chosen dress a day/s before the event. This will give you time to make the necessary alterations. With accessories, avoid being so matchy-matchy. Accessories should complement your entire look. Perfect fit is the key! You must be confident enough to strut your look!  Kapag bongga ang fit sayo at nakakaflatter ang dress, mas masarap irampa! With accessories, avoid being so matchy-matchy. Accessories should complement your entire look. Then heels for the ladies! Nude ones are the safest choice. However, if the shoe design complements the look, I’d say, why not?”

---Story published on my newspaper column, Metro Mom.
A1 and A4, INdulge, Edge Davao, Vol. 7 Issue no. 233, 11 February 2015.

 

 

 

 

3D IMPRINTS BY MAE TRINIDAD

The possibilities are endless for creative-minded people.  Designing and printing invitations are just few of the many profitable ventures glistening in the future of artistically inclined individuals. Some start part-time with less startup costs, while there are those who throw in all their bets and invest in a full-blown business. Many of them can attest that return is beyond what they expected.

 

“Creativity is actually your biggest investment in this business,” shares Lorelei Joy “Mae” Trinidad. This 35 – year old mother of 2 started offering services for layout and print back in 2011. Her line of products includes not only event stationeries but also 3D invitations. “I don’t call this work because I enjoy what I do. I think that’s what’s critical in this business. The creative process takes too much time, from conceptualization to printing and cutting. You have to love all these ‘dirty work,’ so to speak; otherwise it will just burn you out. Every client requires a new concept, thus the need for new ideas and inspiration.”

 

“I’m home based, which gives me more time to oversee matters of the house. I get to bring my kids to school and prepare meals for the family. I dedicate the rest of my free time to my craft. This business has given me a sense of fulfillment because I get to be with my family even while I’m at work.”

Mae's venture into the "creative" business began when she realized she has the knack for stylized layered paper cut-outs, such as her daughter’s birthday cards and stationeries. “I was such a fan of prints and paper even when I was young. Motherhood, in a way, rekindled my love for patterns and the art of paper folding. I just never thought it would turn out to be a successful business for me. I guess nothing is really impossible if you set all your energy and passion into something you love.”

 

“An invitation is like a first glimpse of any type of occasion. Nowadays, there’s such a great demand for artists who can cater to the needs of parents and couples. Having this in mind, I summed up my courage to test the waters and see how my design and printing services would fare. I’ve been lucky ever since. Orders just keep pouring in. Every new project excites me and gives me an opportunity to explore other mediums and techniques.”

Mae’s 3D prints are not your typical stationeries as all the details and cuts are intricate in shape and design.  “Each pack of 30 pieces would take me about a week. I get most of my materials here in Davao but there are also some types of paper which I need to source from other places. My husband plays an integral part in helping acquire materials from abroad and in setting up my craft room.”

 

On top of invitations and stationeries, Mae also customizes mugs and tumblers, giveaways and favor boxes, PVC nametags and 3D table decorations.

Check out Adorable Invites by KikayMae on Facebook to view more of Mae’s products and sample work. You may also inquire and order through mobile number 09328220507 or email adorableinvites@gmail.com.

---
Story published on my newspaper column, Metro Mom.
A1 ad A4, INdulge, Edge Davao, Vol. 7 Issue no. 238, 4 February 2015.