SSBLN Philippines Issue Nº3 | June 2022

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Eyewears Available at Lazada & Shopee
Instagram: @i2inewyorkofficial
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Daily Schedule. ph

Available at dailyscheduleph.com
IG: @dailyschedule.ph &
@dailyscheduleph.sales
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IG: @eggdropmnl
Facebook: facebook.com/eggdropmnl
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FASHION
On the Go 26
Unceasing 32
PHOTOGRAPHY
Dancing In Film 18
COVER STORY
In His Element 42
Better in Color 54
Sustainably Stylish 66
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Lifestyle
In Effect
Beyond The Vines
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90
Dreamy 96
TRAVEL
Tranquility at Shore 106
One With Nature 114
Getaway 120
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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CREATIVE DIRECTOR
FITZGERALD SESE BELEN
EDITORIAL CONSULTANT
AVA ALCALA
CREATIVE CONSULTANT
~
ANNE NINO
PRODUCTION ASSISTANT
DENZEL TABLIZO
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
ANA-LEAH S. BELEN
SSBLN CREATIVE OUTLETS
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A L L I S S U E S A R E N O W A V A I L A B L E A T Y U M P U . C O M
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EDITOR’S NOTE
A
fter the dreadful months of academic
stress and the sleepless nights
thinking if I could still release the
June issue of SSBLN Philippines.
Well here we are — finally. I’m so
proud to share to all of you one of
the most tedious issues SSBLN Philippines has
released. Together with team SSBLN Studios, I
hope that you’ll love every single flip of the page
of this month’s issue.
I started conceptualizing for issue no. 3
after the release of SSBLN Philippines Issue No.
2 last January. Thinking what should I put in the
next issue that will give the readers to look forward
to and an issue that is relevant and timely to
my country, which is the Philippines. As we
release this issue, Pride month is coming to an
end. Though visibility and amplifying the voices
of our brothers and sisters in the LGBTQIA+
community is beyond the celebration each year.
In this third issue of SSBLN Philippines, we are
featuring a colorful array of personalities that
exudes different kinds of Pride
Lia Valdez, owner of Ditto Clothe. An
online thrift store that encourages us to have
pride in being environmentally conscious when it
comes to our fashion purchases. Denisse Quilop
— our beauty editorial cover, giving us how we
should have pride in loving the skin we’re in. As
she proves that Morena empowerment is all we
need in this time of age. Lastly, the queen of our
party, Emerson “Margaux” Pascua. Owner of Wigs
By Margaux. He talked about LGBTQIA+
visibility, his passion for wig making, and the
importance of PRIDE month.
In this is also some travel entries that I
had put. From Subic to Davao. Beautiful local
destinations you can visit, relax, and escape to
from the stress of everyday life. This issue will
also be loaded of stylish clothing and accessories
that you may bring and use on your next getaway.
With Forthway’s fashionable silk pyjamas to
partnering it up with colorful bags from Beyond
The Vines.
Amore Propre. A french word that means,
a sense of one’s worth; self-respect. In the release
of this issue we are celebrating visibility with our
LBGTQIA+ brothers and sisters for PRIDE month.
When I thought of releasing this issue in June, in
my mind — I just don’t want it to be another issue
that have me in a beach for my cover or just a
beautiful photograph.I thought that this is a great
platform to amplify voices and opinions. I hope
that this magazine would be a platform to shed
light on issues in the most beautiful, fashionable
and stylish way possible.
Enjoy the issue.
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Instagram: @ssblnstudioph
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sbln
PHOTOGRAPHY
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PHOTOGRAPHY
Dancing in
Film
Dazz cam is a free mobile application that offers tons of film
filters. Photos in film is coming back once again in our lives. In the
digital age vintage film cameras are spiking in numbers with its
prices. An affordable and convenient way to get that film-like photo
is have an app in your phone to give that fantasy.
Photography by
FITZGERALD BELEN
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CREATIVE DIRECTION Fitzgerald Belen @ SSBLN STDUIOS MODEL Erika Sese
EDITORIAL CONSULTANT Ava Alcala CREATIVE CONSULTANT Anne Nino
LOCATION Central Park Reef Resort, Subic, Zambales
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FASHION
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FASHION
on theGo
Being it a party or a day to run errands these Demillier bag are
gonne be your next on-the-go bag the next time you go out.
Photography by
FITZGERALD BELEN
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FASHION
Unceasing
Thrifting has become once again a trend with millennials and
gen z’s. Ditto Clothe offers an array of fashionable thrifted
items you can shop online through Instagram. Curated by
the Valdez sisters — Ditto gave us a preview with their
colorful & eccentric June release.
Photography by
FITZGERALD BELEN
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R: Denzel Sunglasses i2i New York Vest Ditto Clothe Accessories Stylist Owned
L: DJ Long Sleeves Polo Ditto Clothe Accessories Stylist Owned
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R: Denzel Sunglasses i2i New York Vest Ditto Clothe Accessories Stylist Owned
L: DJ Long Sleeves Polo Ditto Clothe Accessories Stylist Owned
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Top & Skirt Ditto Clothe Accessories Stylist Owned Sunglasses Sunnies Studios
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Top & Skirt Ditto Clothe Accessories Stylist Owned Sunglasses Sunnies Studios
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Floral Jacket and Pants Ditto Clothe Accessories Stylist Owned
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Floral Jacket and Pants Ditto Clothe Accessories Stylist Owned Shoes Nine West
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Silk Top and Pants Ditto Clothe Accessories Stylist Owned
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Silk Top and Pants Ditto Clothe Accessories Stylist Owned Shoes Zanea
CREATIVE DIRECTION Fitzgerald Belen @ SSBLN STDUIOS STYLING Lia Valdez
EDITORIAL CONSULTANT Ava Alcala CREATIVE CONSULTANT Anne Nino
PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS Denisse Quilop & Denzel Tablizo
MODELS Lia Valdez Denisse Quilop & Denzel Tablizo LOCATION Lined Studio
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COVER
InHis
Element
Behind the glitz and glamour. Emerson snatch the wig off and
delves into reality. Celebrating pride is more than its colorful
fesitivities, it has a purpose and the mission for visibility.
Text & Photography by
FITZGERALD BELEN
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Silk Robe Stylist Owned Black Mesh Gloves Shopee
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When a place is inclusive the only things that
will foster in that environment is love and
trust; and I think that it is beautiful to live in a
world like that where there is no envy or hate.
Serving charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and
talent. Emerson “Margaux” Pascua is one
trailblazing person. He is the owner of Wigs
by Margaux in Instagram and has an array
of gorgeous drag queens here in the Philippines
as his client. The craftsmanship and time in making
these wigs are astounding. Emerson pours time, effort,
and creativity in every wig. This artistry extends in the
subject of drag. We talked on what is his viewpoint on
the on-going rise in the mainstream media of the Art of
Drag. Being part of the LGBTQIA+ community, Emerson
shares his outlook on visibility of the LGBTQIA+
community. We also talked on how important pride is to
him.
I’ve seen all over your social media how busy you
are with your Wig Making business. Tell us more
about it.
Well, it all started with a single wig that lead to another.
I actually didn’t think that I would pursue this kind of
business because at first I thought that I was too ambitious
to start something that I know nothing about. I used
to get bookings as a hair and makeup artist before the
pandemic blew off, then a friend asked me if I can style
wigs since I have a background on hair styling. I said I’d
give it a try because wigs are more complicated than real
hair, it’s really not that easy but It’s good that I have
people who believed in me. people who needed me and at
the same time told me to just keep getting better, to
perfect my craft and I am forever grateful for meeting
those people because if it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be
where I am right now. I dedicated my time and effort in
this field because ever since I was a kid I really love
creating and making something out of nothing, and I
think that’s where my creativity developed. Crafting and
stylings wigs isn’t something you learn over night. It’s
hard at first but everything is hard in the beginning.
“Only those who will risk going too far can possibly
find out how far one can go.” – T. S. Eliot
What is your creative process in creating a wig?
My creative process is to breathe and really take my time.
I let the creativity flow and when ideas are blocked from
entering my mind. I breathe, sit down and look at my wig
[mind] block for a very long time. Long enough for me to
also think about what I can grab in the kitchen and what
to watch next on Netflix. I wouldn’t want to stress myself
so I take a rest. Sometimes when you push yourself too
much to deliver quality, you burn yourself and end up
frustrated. Trust the process, even if that process takes
days, weeks or months. Just breathe and trust yourself,
there’s really no need to rush.
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Silk Robe Stylist Owned Black Mesh Gloves Shopee
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Silk Robe Stylist Owned Black Mesh Gloves Shopee
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What or who inspired you to engage in the Art of Drag?
I became a fan of Rupaul’s drag race when I was 17. I love the
glitz and glamour I see in television, that’s when I also asked my
mom to buy me heels and dresses so that I can strut inside the
house whenever I feel feminine. My mom supported me in
everything that I want to be and up to this day I am blessed
because I have her beside me, cheering and rooting for me to
win in life. She’s my biggest fan and all of these wouldn’t be
possible without her because she’s my greatest emotional
supporter and I’m very grateful for her.
How would you explain what the art of drag is?
Some people say that drag is just dressing up and having fun
but there’s really more to that. For me drag is an expression,
it’s more than being pretty and glamorous, it’s more than lip
syncing to a 3 minute song. It’s political, in a sense that you use
your art to be more vocal about social issues, some people feel
more empowered when they’re in drag. Drag is a lifestyle. Drag
is power. Drag is for everyone.
What can you say about how the Art of Drag has taken
mainstream media by storm in the past couple of years?
I think that it’s really good that drag queens are now being seen
not only in bars and theaters. They are now given the chance to
fully educate people who doesn’t have an idea about what drag
is and that it should be accepted because sometimes drag is
perceived only as a form of entertainment/hobby, but if people
will really pay attention to what they do as performers, they
would see how difficult it is and that it should be taken
seriously.
In conceptualizing for our cover shoot, you suggested to
keep your facial hair. Why is that?
It’s really just a personal choice. but to answer that, I used to
get a lot of comments regarding how feminine I act, the way I
walk, talk and react. For me growing a beard is a big slap on the
face to those people who label me as “Malambot”. Some people
even say “Mukang lalake pero kilos babae. Pick a struggle” where’s
the struggle? I don’t see or or feel it, you’re the one struggling
because of how uncomfortable I’m making you feel, which is
also your problem. You don’t get to tell me how I should look.
I feel so ahead of those people because they’re all stuck in an
era where discrimination on people like me still exist. Being
“Malambot” is a statement, it is a lifestyle and it’s not for people
who have a weak heart.
How important PRIDE for you?
Pride is important to me because as a community we share
everything placed on our table. It is something we keep fighting
for and up to this day I still get goosebumps whenever I feel
like I’m fighting for my community. It is something to be held
close to your heart with all your strength and humility. PRIDE
is a protest, a protest where we fight for what is right, we fight
for what is ours and we fight because there are still people out
there outraged because WE exist. Pride for me is like a burning
passion that brings hope and peace. It will never be gone as long
as I live.
PRIDE is a protest, a
protest where we fight
for what is right, we
fight for what is ours
and we fight because
there are still people
out there outraged
because WE exist.
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Dress Stylist Owned Wig WigsByMargaux
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Dress Stylist Owned
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Dress Stylist Owned
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Dress Stylist Owned Wig WigsByMargaux
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Dress Stylist Owned
CREATIVE DIRECTION Fitzgerald Belen @ SSBLN STDUIOS
Makeup & Styling Emerson Pascua EDITORIAL CONSULTANT Ava Alcala
CREATIVE CONSULTANT Denisse Quilop & Anne Niño
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COVER
Better
in
Color
A celebration of uniquness and self-love. Denisse takes an in depth
talk on how we can overcome our insucurity with our skin color
and be empowered in embracing the color we’re in.
Text & Photography by
FITZGERALD BELEN
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Ruffled Turtle Neck Forever21 Earrings Stylist Owned
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Nobody can make me feel bad
about my color. Embracing my
color and being proud of it is the
best way to love my skin.
Denisse or “DJ” and I go way back in our
Senior High School days in Mapúa. She’s
the one that is on top of my head when I
think of someone who loves the skin she’s
in. Her love for make-up made me add
her and become the first beauty editorial feature of the
magazine. This country even though the native skin color
is Moreno and Morena, Filipinos still have this culture
of glorifying pearly white skin. Though there are now
brands releasing lines of products that are morena friendly
products, DJ gives us some brands too look up.
How are you these days? Are you still doing dance
covers?
I’m doing good. Life has been a bit more challenging
for me this year, but I’m powering through every day!
Sadly, I’m not as active in dancing as I was for the past
few years. I got a job, and I’m now at my last semester in
college, so I’ve been extremely busy, sleep-deprived, and
occupied. I still squeeze in some workouts and dancing
every once in a while tho! Dancing has always been
therapy for me, I dance to any music I like, just not
doing so much covers anymore. But I’m trying to go back!
Been eyeing on some choreos I want to learn.
Aside from your love for dancing, I know for a fact
that you love make-up! Where did it started and
who are your make-up guru’s?
There are countless individuals whose style fascinates me
and inspires me in many ways. But there are two women
I admire and consider to be my ‘Style Icons,’ Princess
Diana and Bella Hadid. I have always adored neat and
elegant styles; may it be casual wear or streetwear. Both
of these fashion icons knew what truly looks good on
them and that’s what make their image even more powerful.
They could wear numerous styles while keeping a
naturalness to their glamour, making them an icon and a
trendsetter. Their confidence is unmatched and it’s what
makes them. All you see is them, and the clothes become
secondary to their own presence. Yes, I love make-up! I
never expected myself to be into make-up tho, because I
was a bit of a tomboy growing up. I started doing makeup
in Senior High School. And honestly, it was because
of my insecurities. I got to see all these really pretty
girls at my age and I felt really insecure. Na-pressure ako
matuto mag-ayos. Also, there were a lot celebrations and
events that time so learning how to do make-up felt necessary.
Of course, I got really into it, and now I’m doing
it because I love it.
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Ruffled Turtle Neck Forever21 Earrings Stylist Owned
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Ruffled Turtle Neck Forever21 Earrings Stylist Owned
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Now we have brands selling morena” friendly products specially
for make-up. How do you consider a make-up morena friendly?
’ve watched videos about morenas speaking on this, and what I’ve learned
was that you can look at this issue differently. For some, “morena-friendly”
make-up is quite disappointing to hear as if they felt the need to include
us in the beauty industry. I completely understand where they are coming
from, because the point is that regardless of your skin tone, if you feel like
a product looks good on you, go ahead. Whose to say that certain shades
complement a certain skin tone the most? Like, bright pink lipsticks are not
really catered to morenas, but if you want to use them, then go off. That’s
the entire purpose of make-up. However, brands launching morena-friendly
products are usually those release a bigger shade range. Whether it’s for
base make-up, powders, or lipsticks. It’s to give us more options and undertones
to choose from. And of course, inclusiveness in campaigns! If you shop
online, it’s so hard to decide on a product if brands only release campaigns
with fair-skinned people. You have no other references and it’s just disappointing.
So seeing brands really trying to reach their morena consumers is
comforting.
Do you have any favorite brand/s to use for your make-up?
Local brands for sure! For bigger brands, BLK and Vice Cosmetics are my
top tier. I also love Detail cosmetics! But I’m more of a lippie addict, so I
really try to explore products from smaller brands, who are thriving btw! I’m
currently loving Lip Pinas, Colourette, and Squad cosmetics!
What is your go-to make-up combo?
I’m not much of a full-face make-up type, so I don’t use a base. I honestly
want to show my true skin as much as possible. So, I always go for filled-out
brows, a good lengthening mascara, blush, and lippie! My favorite lip colors
to use are browns, mauve pinks, or brick reds!
In a country glorifying pearly white skin how does it feel growing
up being morena?
It felt degrading, to be honest. Because every one will always invalidate you
just because you’re darker. You’re programmed to not feel beautiful, and all
you hear are backhanded compliments. Like being told that you’re a “black
beauty”, is not a compliment. Why are we being put inside a box, right? I feel
like I speak for a lot of moreno/morenas when I say that growing up feeling
confident is challenging. And it affects your confidence so much. I personally
had to struggle with that. And the sad thing was, I’ve always accepted that
reality because it was what I felt. And when you finally hit that realization
that there’s so much beauty in our skin color, it feels like you have to fight
for your place all the time.
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Ruffled Turtle Neck Forever21 Earrings Stylist Owned
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of my hair. I was always casted aside for any beauty-related
events, that’s why I never experienced being a muse at any
thing. I was always silent about being bullied for my skin, but
it really destroyed any confidence I had growing up.
CELEBRATE
YOUR COLOR
AND SURROUND
YOURSELF WITH
PEOPLE WHO
THINK THE
SAME.
You also advocate against colorism, by sharing posts
in your IG stories, how is being vocal about this
affects us?
You know, people will never realize they’re on the wrong side
of things unless those who are being cornered finally speak
up. By being vocal, you get to educate people who will then
carry those learnings forward. Little by little, we can teach
the kids that differences in skin color is normal and beautiful.
One person at a time, we can promote this advocacy and
change people’s perspectives. It helps us, and the younger
generation build confidence.
Loving your own skin is a truly powerful way to embrace
our uniqueness, what are your ways in loving
your morena-ness?
Not falling into the pressure to be whiter! I never use products
that would make my skin lighter, because I want to show
off my color as much as I can. I’m also not afraid to get even
darker! I tan if I want to, and I’ll show off my skin even
more. Also, I’m more open in talking about it now. And if I
ever receive any comments about my skin, I always turn them
around and make it a compliment. Nobody can make me feel
bad about my color. Embracing my color and being proud of
it is the best way to love my skin.
Were you teased when you were young about your skin,
being morena?
Oh for sure. I was called all kinds of names you could imagine.
As a kid, I had darker skin and curly hair. I was always
called negra, which btw, is never an insult. Kids use this term
as an insult, which is disappointing. Now, if any one calls me
negra, I take it as a compliment. Because I love my color.
I was also called madumi, madungis, or even salot because
What’s your message to young morena girls out there
that are still insecure with their skin color?
Your skin color is beautiful. No one can ever tell you otherwise.
You are no different from any other person. This pressure
being put on us by society is exactly why you shouldn’t
give in to it in the first place. At the end of the day, if you
feel beautiful in your own skin, that’s what matters the most.
Celebrate your color and surround yourself with people who
think the same. The next time someone comments on your
color, always express your love for it. “And what”?
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CREATIVE DIRECTION Fitzgerald Belen @ SSBLN STDUIOS Makeup Denisse Quilop
EDITORIAL CONSULTANT Ava Alcala CREATIVE CONSULTANT Anne Nino
STYLING & PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS Lia Valdez & Denzel Tablizo
LOCATION Lined Studio
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COVER
Sustainably
S tylish
Sustainability is in an utmost priority nowadays in fashion.
Lia Valdez talks on being a thrift store owner and promoting
sustainable fashion through Ditto Clothe.
Text & Photography by
FITZGERALD BELEN
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See-through Floral Print Blouse & Skirt Ditto Clothe Sunglasses Chloé Earrings ZARA
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Thrifting encourages a network of
sustainable fashion enthusiasts
who cultivate an environmentally
conscientious mentality, which I believe is
fantastic since it means we can reduce textile
waste in landfills even more.
Lia Valdez, is one of the owners of Ditto
Clothe together with her sisters. An online
fashion thrift store that promotes sustainability.
I had this idea to collaborate with
her last year for an issue of the magazine.
Finally we had the chance to have a photoshoot with her
collection to be released this June.
Fast fashion has destroyed our environment in so many
ways. But we couldn’t blame the people. These products
sold by fast fashion brands are affordable yet, still stylish.
Sustainability is in an utmost priority nowadays in
fashion. In our conversation — Lia and I talked about
how our fashion purchases affects the environment and
how thrifting is not just merely a trend we must do but a
responsible action we can do to save mother earth.
What keeps you moving lately?
Desire, the burning desire to achieve something in life.
Going on with life is what keeps me going day by day. In
my life, I’ve discovered one thing quite clearly: setting
goals is simple, but sticking to them is challenging.
Our inner desires to attain any goal are what drives us
on our journey. When I’m working toward a goal and
confront several obstacles, I get tired and want to give
up sometimes (I mean who doesn’t). At the end of the
day, only I know how deeply I want this, and that drives
me to persevere. I take a pause and go on with all of
my collected mind and vigor. Working hard and smart
always pays off. Yes, it will take time, sacrifice small
things, and demand a lot of effort, but the satisfaction
you will feel will be unparalleled. When your ambition
meets your hard work, no one can stop you from achieving
all of your goals. So, saddle up and get ready to feel
as powerful as I do. Whatever your aim, dream, or passion
is, you are capable of accomplishing it. The closer
you get to it, the more the adversary of your soul will
start to question you by playing self-limiting tapes that
tell you, you are not worthy. Replace these old tapes
with newer ones that reveal the truth - you are deserving
of having your heart’s true desire and continuing to
move ahead.
Who are your style icons?
There are countless individuals whose style fascinates
me and inspires me in many ways. But there are two
women I admire and consider to be my ‘Style Icons,’
Princess Diana and Bella Hadid. I have always adored
neat and elegant styles; may it be casual wear or streetwear.
Both of these fashion icons knew what truly looks
good on them and that’s what make their image even
more powerful. They could wear numerous styles while
keeping a naturalness to their glamour, making them an
icon and a trendsetter. Their confidence is unmatched
and it’s what makes them. All you see is them, and the
clothes become secondary to their own presence.
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See-through Floral Print Blouse & Skirt Ditto Clothe Sunglasses Chloé Earrings ZARA Shoes Zalora
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See-through Floral Print Blouse & Skirt Ditto Clothe Sunglasses Chloé Earrings ZARA Shoes Zalora
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As an Industrial Designer where do you get your
inspiration for your design/s?
As a designer, I never know when inspirations may
strike. However, when I am resting or in complete
peace, that’s where my mind usually sparks creative
ideas. This is because our thoughts are free to absorb
our experiences and generate new ideas during downtime.
As a result, we are frequently motivated by activities
such as strolling, spending time with friends, going
out to dinner, or seeing a movie. What I usually do is
visit museums and art expos. I look to art for inspiration
because it allows me to journey to another place,
to change my perspective on something I may not have
seen before, and to compare that experience to something
else. It’s not just paintings or sculpted monuments
that can transport us to another time or place.
How do you see fashion in today’s climate?
As global warming has been prevalent, many people
have been turning into sustainable fashion. Women are
wiser now, and they consider not just the quality of
the apparel, but also the entire supply chain, manufacturing
practices, and product afterlife. With the new
trends in textiles and technology, people are choosing
fabrics that are engineered to last longer. Natural fiber
garments like cotton, hemp, and linen are considered
sustainable and innovative in the fashion industry.
On the other hand, thrifting is another sustainable
approach in reducing waste significantly, since fewer
clothes will need to be produced. There is reasoning
behind why thrifting is the most sustainable option for
shoppers. Not only does redistributing worn clothing
increase their wearable life, but it also keeps them
out of landfills and encourages the manufacturing of
brand-new goods by diminishing customer demand for
new products. That’s why I encourage you to thrift! It
feels amazing to score a great item of apparel from a
thrift store, increasing its value to you.
How did “Ditto Clothe” started?
Ditto was founded in 2020, at the height of the pandemic.
My elder sister enjoys thrifting and supports
local thrift shops in order to incorporate sustainable
fashion into her lifestyle. She was compelled to leave
the company because to the pandemic. She had previously
planned to establish a business, but her shifting
schedule in the airline and the necessity to adapt to
these changing timetables made it difficult for her to
do so. When she was laid off from Cebu Pacific, she
saw it as a sign to start her own business. She admired
the concept of online thrift stores since it became more
accessible to people who are unable to visit thrift shops
personally, as well as the idea of being trendy on a
budget.
What were the challenges your brand faced
during a pandemic?
Everyone is affected economically so it’s a bit
challenging to get prospect buyers to purchase our
items. But we learned that we have to be consistent
with our content and be present on social media all
the time. Starting a business was extremely challenging,
especially in the midst of a pandemic. Since we
are experiencing everything for the first time, it can be
emotionally, mentally, and physically tiring. We made
a few missteps along the way, which helped us develop
and adapt.
We made a few
missteps along the
way, which helped us
develop and adapt.
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What do you think about the impact of —
people buying clothes from thrift shops?
I’m amazed at how many people are now willing to
shop at secondhand stores. People may look down on
you if they find that you used to buy clothing from a
thrift store. My mother had previously forbidden us
from doing so, so I was skeptical at first. But after
learning about the environmental consequences, I
changed my views. Thrifting encourages a network of
sustainable fashion enthusiasts who cultivate an environmentally
conscientious mentality, which I believe is
fantastic since it means we can reduce textile waste in
landfills even more.
What are your thoughts on Sustainable Fashion?
I wholeheartedly support environmentally friendly
fashion. The fashion industry is one of the world’s
most polluting sectors. Making a deliberate decision
to purchase with sustainable brands may have a
significant impact on the earth and its inhabitants.
Fast fashion is all about trends, yet we’ve been taught
what to wear for so long that many of us have forgotten
what our own distinct style is. Many sustainable
brands strive to create high-quality, timeless goods.
Curate your own unique style, say no to money-wasting
fashion fads, and dress in things that represent
your personality.
What are your advice for those who buys in
online thrift stores?
Well, I recommend that you learn about the store’s
specialty/style. Nowadays, most online thrift retailers
curate their own pieces with a certain style. Knowing
what the store sells may make thrift shopping much
more enjoyable.
What can we expect from the next release of
“Ditto Clothe?”
We currently acquired our thrifted products in bulk
and are selling everything from it at a bargain.
However, in the future, we plan to offer more curated
content and a more open-ended aesthetic. This implies
that we’ll be offering clothing in themes, whether basic
or eccentric! So, keep an eye out!
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Bra-Bathing Suit Top Shopee Sunglasses Sunnies Earrings & Pants Stylist Owned
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Bra-Bathing Suit Top Shopee Sunglasses Sunnies Earrings Stylist Owned
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Printed Tube Dress Ditto Clothe Necklaces Stylist Owned Earrings H&M Silk Scarf L’Officiel
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Printed Tube Dress Ditto Clothe Necklaces Stylist Owned Earrings H&M Silk Scarf L’Officiel
CREATIVE DIRECTION Fitzgerald Belen @ SSBLN STDUIOS STYLING Lia Valdez
EDITORIAL CONSULTANT Ava Alcala CREATIVE CONSULTANT Anne Nino
PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS Denisse Quilop & Denzel Tablizo
LOCATION Lined Studio
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LIFESTYLE
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LIFESTYLE
in
Effect
Now that we are slowly coming back to a face-to-face set ups in
school or work — a bag would that is practical and stylish would be a
great purchase. Gaston Luga offers a wide range of waterproof bags
that will surely protect you electronics in a rainy day on the road.
Photography by
ANNE NIÑO
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Bag Gaston Luga [Spläsh in Black 16”]
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Bag Gaston Luga [Spläsh in Black 16”]
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Bag Gaston Luga [Spläsh in Black 16”]
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Bag Gaston Luga [Spläsh in Black 16”]
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Bag Gaston Luga [Spläsh in Black 16”]
CREATIVE DIRECTION Fitzgerald Belen @ SSBLN STDUIOS
EDITORIAL CONSULTANT Anne Nino
PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS Janica Balagtas
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LIFESTYLE
Beyond the
Vines
The colorful and fun Singaporean brand has found its way to
Manila. Beyond the Vines has an array of bags to offer but the
dumpling and mini reversible bags has given a new feet
for on-the go bags to travel with to the beach.
hotography by
FITZGERALD BELEN
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Reversible Bag in Blush/Teal Beyond The Vines
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Reversible Bag in Blush/Teal Beyond The Vines
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Dumpling Bag in Medium Size Beyond The Vines
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Dumpling Bag in Medium Size Beyond The Vines
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Dumpling Bag in XS Size Mustard Beyond The Vines
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Dumpling Bag in XS Size Mustard Beyond The Vines
HOTEL: Pearl Farm Beach Resort SAMAL ISLAND, DAVAO
MODEL Fitzgerald Belen CREATIVE DIRECTION Fitzgerald Belen @ SSBLN STDUIOS
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER & PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANCE Ana-Leah Sese Belen
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LIFESTYLE
Dreamy
Dreamy bedsheets to stylish pyjama sets. Forthway has it.
Now that we are adapting to the new hybrid working lifestyle
having some beautiful bedsheets seen in the background is a must
and to look good in online meetings even if you’re serving a just
woke up look — have a beautiful set of pyjamas.
Photography by
FITZGERALD BELEN
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CREATIVE DIRECTION Fitzgerald Belen @ SSBLN STDUIOS Models Oby & Julia
STYLING & PRODUCTION Ava Alcala & Sofia Yulo
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TRAVEL
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TRAVEL
Tranquility
at Shore
The white sands and crystal waters of Boracay together with the
peace and quiet ambiance that Shangri-La Boracay Resort offers
you’ll surely have a different kind of getaway.
Text & Photography by
FITZGERALD BELEN
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Boracay has been the number one destination
for every tourist visiting the
Philippines — even for Filipinos who
wants to experience its exquisite white
sand and crystal clear waters. Boracay is also known
for having the best resorts that offers a getaway of a
lifetime for its visitors.
Shangri-la Boracay is one of the best and wellknown
resorts in Boracay. Located in Station 0,
you’ll sure experience a different kind of vacation in
Boracay. Having it located in farther area from the
main district of Boracay you’ll have this kind of
privacy and peaceful stay. Even though, Shangri-la
offers a ton of activities to do in the resort; they
have game rooms and other indoor entertainment
and water sports that you can do it without being
hassles by the crowd of visitors that Boracay has.
Though Shangri-la Boracay a scheduled shuttle to
and from the stations around the island. You still
have the chance to enjoy and explore the main island
and go back to the resort.
Kayaking is one of the activities I tried in the
resort. You’ll have a view of the spectacular architecture
of the resort from kayaking in the crystal
waters. Also, I tried paddle boarding. This activity
scared me. The fact that you have to balance
yourself in a board and might fall in the deep
waters, that scenario would be horrendous. Though
Shangri-la staffs will assure your safety — as there
are lifeguards on standby and will offer you a
life jacket before you start with the activity. Even
though trying to paddle board at Shangri-la Boracay
is highly recommended. As you are paddling your
way in the water you’ll experience tranquility and
peace. Hence this is what we all want to — have that
peace of mind to escape the hustle and bustle of the
city streets in Manila.
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HOTEL: Shangri-La Resort Boracay CATICLAN, BORACAY
MODEL Fitzgerald Belen CREATIVE DIRECTION Fitzgerald Belen @ SSBLN STDUIOS
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER & PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANCE Ana-Leah Sese Belen
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Quick Escape
TRAVEL
Just hours outside the metro is a getaway for family and friends.
A poo and beach Central Park Beach Resort in Subic has it! They
also have water sports for all ages in the family. A true destination
to distress with family and friends.
Photography by
FITZGERALD BELEN
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HOTEL: Central Park Reef Resort SUBIC, ZAMBALES
MODEL Fitzgerald Belen CREATIVE DIRECTION Fitzgerald Belen @ SSBLN STDUIOS
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER Ana-Leah Sese Belen PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANCE Erika Sese
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TRAVEL
GETAWAY
With just a plane ride to davao and a minute or two of boat ride
you’ll reach a hidden gem in Samal Island, Davao. Pearl Farm Beach
Resorts offers a whole experience for your next getaway and have
an relaxing getaway of a life time in Davao
Photography by
FITZGERALD BELEN
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HOTEL: Pearl Farm Beach Resort SAMAL ISLAND, DAVAO
MODEL Fitzgerald Belen CREATIVE DIRECTION Fitzgerald Belen @ SSBLN STDUIOS
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER Ana-Leah Sese Belen PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANCE Jhodie Bernardo
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Wigs Margaux
by
I N S T A G R A M : @wigsbymargaux
HAND CRAFTED AND STYLED BY EMERSONN PASCUA
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