Red 14 december 15 2013

DECEMBER 2013 www.inquirer.net/red

PAULINE SUACO-JUAN Lays Down the Law

Editor’s Letter FASHION IN CRISIS

PHOTOGRAPHY JO ANN BITAGCOL

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It’s been difficult for our team to run an issue about luxurious things, knowing a lot out there are suffering. Truth is, it didn’t have to take Yolanda to remind us poverty abounds. Just five minutes away from the office, it is evident. But fashion is a part of our everyday lives. Sometimes, it is even an escape from the hard truths in life. For me, it can be as simple as wearing a loose polo to make me forget I badly need to go to the gym.

It can be quite narrow-minded to deem the moneyed “insensitive” for spending during a time of crisis. Having money to spend, and spending it on oneself, are not unethical. Being indifferent is. Last week, a group of people in the industry led by Kaye Tinga raised another P1.2 million just selling pre-loved goods, after raising P1.6 million only two weeks before. See, some affluent people buy shoes like they’re candy, and even though it shocks me a bit and makes me jealous even, I found these same people admirable for willingly sending their valuable stuff flying off the shelves to raise money (an easy P5,000 for a pair of barely used Roger Vivier pumps), without agenda nor need for recognition. Call it consumerist but to be honest, I find this approach quite effective. Offering designer pieces at convincing prices made the process of donation so much easier, both for the buyers (who are buying for themselves foremost, with the victims at the back of their minds) and those selling their luxury items to raise money (who are almost giving these expensive stuff away to be able to donate quickly) — the latter, I believe, being the true instruments of help.

In the end, I realized it’s really not what you wear, but what you do when a situation presents itself where you can do your part. “Blessed are the poor in spirit” does not imply that who God anoints are the poor, but that God anoints those who can feel for the poor.

This Christmas may be much simpler for a lot by choice — some by circumstance — but I can sleep peacefully at night knowing I did my part in my own way, along with a lot of my friends. Never enough but never too little, nevertheless sufficient for everyone to feel the spirit of the holidays.

Have a blessed Christmas from the Inquirer RED team!

Ria Prieto FOLLOW US ON

Inquirer RED Magazine-OFFICIAL

@inquirerRED

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Celebrate your Christmas moments

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Contents admiRED /20

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Pauline Suaco-Juan Lays Down the Law

ON THE COVER: Blazer, Hermès, Greenbelt 3; top, pants, Balenciaga, Univers, One Rockwell; choker, Gucci, Greenbelt 4 THIS PAGE: Top, Balenciaga, Univers, One Rockwell; trousers, Ivar Aseron; heels, Pierre Hardy, Univers, One Rockwell; neck piece, Valentino

6 art Destruction in a different light 8 attiRED Liken yourself with these rising icons 14 inspiRED Where to find solace in New York, NY 20 admiRED Pauline Juan answers fashion's difficult questions 26 exploRED How tourism saved this dormant volcano 29 inquiRED What have you learned from Typhoon Yolanda?

30 empoweRED Amit Dasgupta Editor-in-chief Art Director Associate Editor Copy Editor

Ria Prieto Nina Muallam Mara Santillan Miano September Grace Mahino

Contributing writers September Grace Mahino, Jenny Rockett Contributing photographers Sean Armenta, Shaira Luna, Jenny Rockett External Relations Officer Sophie Villanueva Editorial Consultant Thelma Sioson San Juan

Board Chairperson

Alexandra Prieto-Romualdez

Vice President, Advertising Pepito Olarte Business Development Manager Lou Gonzales Sales and Marketing Manager Cathy Bautista-Pumarega

art

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Everything and Nothing, 2013, acrylic and emulsion transfer on wood, 72 x 96 inches, Art Informal

FLEETING An art scholar on embracing change

Son of a University of the Philippines-Diliman Fine Arts professor, consistent scholar and winner of Most Outstanding Thesis 2006, Zean Cabangis has certainly been impressing art enthusiasts since he was a student, but people now know to take investing in him more seriously after his recent show “Condestruct” sold out at Art Informal.

His studio is a beautifully dingy house inside the U.P. Diliman campus, one he shares with his father and fellow artists. “I love biking around here,” he shares. “I take pictures of places that strike me, and I start from there.”

Art writer Riel Hilario notes, “Cabangis has touched a contemporary problem: there is insecurity in the structures that we build because they are, after all, constructs. Like houses easily destroyed by calamity or rot, all our structures are built upon an incomplete understanding of the nature of changing physicality.”

Cabangis executes the emulsion transfer on wood, cuts it up in that arresting brick pattern, and glues it back together. Before he cuts the wood however, Cabangis, who is allergic to oil paint, first paints over the photo transfer with acrylic. He says nonchalantly, “I don’t want people saying I don’t know how to paint.” —MSM

The world meets at

Buddha-Bar Manila A certified hotspot and restaurateurs’ favourite,

Buddha-Bar Manila is creating the most talked about events nowadays among Manila’s most stylish people. Known for its signature ambience, intimate atmosphere, and cultural decors, Buddha-Bar Manila has been the go-to place of popular celebrities all over the world, from West to the Far East, now the denizens of Manila are definitely on the loop.

With its world-class feel, the posh interiors are suited for every party or event, may it be a sit-down gathering or simple get together with close friends and buddies.

Special occasions will never be the same as the soothing atmosphere and vibe, with its utterly spacious area, combined with sumptuous roster of food and drinks, and mesmerizing Buddha-Bar signature music are bound to be experienced by guests and party hosts alike.

May it be corporate launches, birthday parties, or group gatherings, celebrations at Buddha-Bar Manila are always memorable and one of a kind. A perfect venue for formal banquets, lunch meetings, night-out with officemates; the spacious three-storey structure and exclusive VIP rooms where guests can comfortably mingle and enjoy could be accommodated and live the night away. awa Buddha-Bar Manila does not stop from being the metro’s new choice to celebrate milestone happenings; the roster of their international artists who have made a mark in the world of music is what keeps the place a haven for diners and goers.

Among the in-house dj’s that have graced Buddha-Bar Manila are DJ Nicholas Sechaud, Buddha-Bar Dubai’s Dubai resident DJ and popular in mixing and playing excellently-mixed style of music, Buddha-Bar Monte Carlo’s DJ Carlos Campos who is the man behind the ecstatic first year anniversary of Buddha-Bar Manila and DJ Ravin and DJ Dimi.el who recently visited the Manila franchise to hype the crowd and let the guests experience living the life the Buddha-Bar way. wa

attiRED

INSPIRED BY THE INSPIRED Tomorrow's icons shaping today W O R D S B Y AP P L E N O C O M

YOKO ONO

CLOCKWISE: Boots, Stuart Weitzman; sunglasses, Nackymade, www.nackymade.com; black GaraTote by Dex Fernandez; harem pants, Comme de Garçons

is best known for her relationship with John Lennon, but she is also known for her avant-garde style as a musician, artist and peace activist. She has collaborated with other artists and musicians such as Andy Warhol, La Monte Young, Fred DeAsis and others.

Despite the experimental genre taking a while to reach mainstream, she has received a lot of recognition for her work. The year 2002 saw her receive the Skowhegan Medal for assorted media while in 2009, she was awarded a Golden Lion Award for lifetime achievement. In 2012, she won the Oskar Kokoschka Prize, Austria's highest award for contemporary art.

Today, she translates her artwork style into offbeat clothing pieces. Her recent line of fashion for men features bold cuts and colors with hand-shaped designs in suggestive places on the cloth. Yoko Ono said that this line was inspired by her love for her late husband’s body.

She funds and maintains John Lennon's legacy and memorials, including Strawberry Fields in New York City and the Imagine Peace Tower in Iceland. She collaborated with Lennon himself on several music records before he died, as well as produced and recorded tributes to him after his death.

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CLOCKWISE: Watch, cuff links, ensemble, boots, Hermès Menswear A/W 2013

CNN journalist ANDERSON COOPER is famous for his broadcast reports on major stories around the world. But with his tailored suits and well-groomed, dapper aura, he is often the subject of media stories himself.

Between the ages of ten and 13, he worked with Ford Models, modeling for Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein and Macy's.

His mother, heiress and socialite Gloria Vanderbilt, was a pioneer developer of designer blue jeans.

Gloria Vanderbilt became heiress to a half share in a $5 million trust fund when she was two. She was raised in luxury by her aunt, was involved in art, home décor and fashion business, and had written several memoirs and novels over her life.

She married and divorced three times before marrying Wyatt Cooper, who would become the father of Anderson and Carter Cooper. Carter committed suicide when he was 23, an incident which sparked Anderson’s interest in journalism. He explains that it made him dwell specifically on questions of loss.

He pursued journalism after college, first reporting with Channel One and ABC News before finally moving to broadcast journalism at CNN. Today, he hosts his own syndicated talk show Anderson Cooper 360. He has received over 10 awards and five nominations for his coverage of stories like Hurricane Katrina, the Haiti earthquake and Princess Diana’s funeral.

Most notable in the Philippines was his recent on-location coverage of supertyphoon Haiyan’s aftermath in Tacloban City, where he won the hearts of Filipinos with his empathic visit and reporting.•

DAPHNE GUINNESS, an heiress,

CLOCKWISE: Chanel No. 5 Perfume Bottle Clutch Black, Chanel; cropped jacket, Rick Owens; Dolce & Gabbana Spring 2014; black sapphire and white diamond hoop earrings, Roberto Coin; fascinator, Mich Dulce; heels, Jimmy Choo

socialite, artist, designer and fashion stylist, is celebrated as a world fashion icon for her creations and collaborations in style and beauty.

Her image as a fashion expert was immortalized on the International Best Dressed Hall of Fame and in Tatler’s Top 10 Best Dressed in 2010. In the same year, she sat on the judging committee of the Dorchester Fashion Prize.

Guinness was a muse to many other great names in the industry like Karl Lagerfield, MAC and Akris, and was a close friend to the late Alexander McQueen and Isabella Blow.

She is also deeply involved in art, film and philanthropic efforts.

Daphne is an heiress to Guinness beer, by direct descent of its 18th century inventor Arthur Guinness. Brewed in almost 60 countries and available in over a hundred, Guinness is one of the most successful beer brands in the world. •

HOME D'COEUR

Bring light and cheer into a loved one's home, or yours, this Yuletide season FROM TOP: Zecchin Pair of Birds, Black Harlequin Picture Frame, Bernardaud set of 1 Teapot and Earl Grey Tea, Principe Oriental Dancer in White and Gold, Bernardaud Coral Salina Vase, Zecchin Adagio Vase with Foot, Sebino Arte The Kiss Omaggio by Klimt Plates, Zecchin Oasis Fruit Salad Set, all available at Rustan's Home

CLOCKWISE: Candy bag, Furla; necklace, Bea Valdes; Iris Apfel for MAC Cosmetics; Balenciaga Pre-Fall 2013; bracelet, OPS!, Swim, Power Plant Mall; smoking slippers, Prada; pants, Tory Burch

At the fashionably late age of 92, IRIS APFEL is one of fashion’s presentday darlings, challenging the popular idea that youth means beauty. This year, she was named by The Guardian as one of the 50 Best-Dressed Over-50s.

Often described as a rare bird in fashion, Iris’ work is worth following as she experiments with trends and new styles fearlessly. She embraces colors, cuts, layers and the ever-changing demands of fast fashion. Despite her years, she doesn’t seem to be done playing yet.

In recent years, Apfel became an important fashion celebrity, thanks in part to the "Rara Avis (Rare Bird): The Irreverent Iris Apfel" collection exhibits, where she showed off her signature style of mixing bargain finds with high fashion.

Two years ago, her eclectic style found its way into beauty. Iris collaborated with MAC Cosmetics to produce a bold 20-piece collection of lipsticks, eyeshadows, nail lacquers and more, matching her youthful sense of life and color. The collection is made for the fun-loving girl looking to enjoy a playful, free-spirited lifestyle.

The Museum of Lifestyle & Fashion History in Boynton Beach has made plans to build a gallery dedicated to Iris' fashion and interior collections.

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JENNA

LYONS,

Creative Director and President of J. Crew, started in the fashion brand very early on. She joined the company right after leaving Parsons School of Design and was accepted as Assistant Designer in menswear.

She worked her way upward to Creative Director over several years, even managing to stay beyond a total company overhaul when management changed heads. When CEO Mickey Drexler took over, Lyons summoned the courage to tell him how she really felt about the company and he gave her free rein to fix it.

She got rid of pieces that no longer worked, improved the quality of fabrics and introduced ideas that borrowed from high fashion styles but worked for the average woman. Her style philosophy for the brand made it a place where women, their sisters, mothers and daughters could all shop together. This offering on its own already set the brand apart.

Lyons is currently credited as the woman who turned J. Crew around. The brand has now earned celebrity fans such as Blake Lively, Katie Holmes, Bradley Cooper, Angelina Jolie and Michelle Obama. Jenna Lyons sits on Time Magazine’s list of Top 100 Most Influential People in 2013. •

CLOCKWISE: Ripped jeans, 7 for all Mankind; watch, Rolex; pumps, Tod's; tweed jacket, Marc Jacobs; top, Tory Burch; bag, Proenza Schouler

inspiRED

AMID THE NOISE When the Big Apple busyness gets too overwhelming, these boutique hotels provide peace and quiet

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Thompson Hotel

Ace Hotel

THOMPSON HOTEL

60 Thompson St., New York, NY Housing 97 bedrooms, this Soho hotel is chic and bohemian but exudes modern sophistication. The interior is adorned with shelves of backlit glass jars filled with fresh, fragrant orchids. Its rooftop bar, A60, is a comfortable spot frequented by regulars.

ACE HOTEL

20 W 29th St., New York, NY Ace provides posh, artsy boho accommodations.

Its walls are lined with art, its rooms furnished with turntables, and its location in the midtown flower district celebrates New York culture and art in full spirit.

THE NOMAD HOTEL

The Nomad Hotel

1170 Broadway, New York, NY Reminiscent of the old-school Broadway feel, the NoMad boasts an upscale restaurant, spacious rooms, a cozy lounge and Beaux-Arts boutique furnishing. Set in the restored former National Cash Register Company, its designer Jacques Garcia aspired for it to be “journey-themed,” making it the most appropriate epitome of its authentic location: North Madison.

THE SURREY

20 E 76th St, New York, NY Paisley carpets, a garden up on the 17th floor and a luxurious restaurant, bar and spa, this Upper East Side hotel boasts grandiosity and sophistication at its finest.

This hotel is a top choice at making guests feel like royalty.

The Surrey

The Soho House Hotel Americano

THE SOHO HOUSE

29-35 9th Ave, New York, NY The Soho House, located in the heart of New York City’s Meatpacking District, is for individuals that prefer the more urban setting.

First founded by private club members for those in the creative industries like film and media, it has expanded into a lush hotel with a heated rooftop pool, a Cowshed spa and a 44-seat cinema — rich and understated with a mix of retro and contemporary.

HOTEL AMERICANO

518 W 27th St, New York, NY Located in the arts district of the Chelsea neighborhood and a few meters from the upscale High Line Hotel, the Hotel Americano, with its historic Mexican architecture and organic feel, is frequented by members of the fashion and media community. New York’s most beautiful, rich and famous are often seen sunbathing on the rooftop pool during the summer.

Wythe Hotel

W YTHE HOTEL

80 Wythe Ave, N. 11th Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY People say The Wythe is the first boutique hotel in Williamsburg able to capture the district’s elusive-cool energy. It is vintage without going too retro — its 50-foot “HOTEL” signage up front was created from salvaged tin by Tom Fruin, and becomes a beacon of neon light at night. Exposed brick, reclaimed-timber beds, humorous custom wallpaper and heated concrete floors create a rustic-industrial feel.

The Mercer

THE MERCER

147 Mercer St, New York, NY One of those effortlessly cool Soho hotels, the Mercer houses bright bedrooms that capture the New York style with neutral colors, hardwood floors, cast-iron and glass sidewalks. Standing at six stories in classic red brick, this luxury hotel is timeless New York sophistication at its best.

W

541 Lexington Ave, New York, NY At the center of the city that is the center of the universe, W New York is close to Grand Central Terminal, Times Square, Rockefeller Center, the Theater District and world-class shopping. Steps away from anything and everything in midtown, the W is perfect for those who prefer to combine business with pleasure.

•

W

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BOTTLED MAGIC Perfumes not only pleasing to the nose but also to the eyes

FROM TOP: Creed Love in White, SM Aura Department Store; Hermès Jour d’ Hermès, Greenbelt 3; Annick Goutal Ninfeo mio, Chanel No. 5, Bulgari Eau Parfumeé au Thé Vert, Giorgio Armani Sì, Guerlain Aqua Allegoria Jasminora, Rustan’s Maison Francis Kurkdjian Oud Silk Mood, Adora, Greenbelt 5; Diptyque Volutes, Rustan’s; Penhaligon’s Endymion, Adora, Greenbelt 5

HOLLYWOOD GLAM When it comes to party makeup, beauty expert Bobbi Brown says it’s about going brighter, deeper or more shimmery. Here, she shares three scenestealing makeup looks inspired by the red carpet.

Siren Red Lips

Red lips are a holiday staple for a reason: they’re modern, sexy and command attention. For the most dramatic look, choose blue-red and orange-red shades of lipstick. Apply the lipstick with a lip brush for more precise application. Not ready to go high voltage? Try a sheer red gloss to give lips that just-ate-a-popsicle look. Try: Old Hollywood Lip Color or Siren Red Lip Gloss.

Get Katie’s Look: Ivory Eye Shadow, Candlelight Gold Metallic Eye Shadow, Gold Sparkle Eye Shadow, Fog Eye Shadow, NEW Blackest Black Ink Liner, Black Smokey Eye Mascara, Peony Blush, NEW Nude Glow Shimmer Brick, NEW Old Hollywood Lip Color, Red Lip Liner, NEW Siren Red Lip Gloss.

Black Smokey Eyes

For a super quick smokey eye, swipe a black cream shadow stick in a thick line across the lower lid. Use your fingers to smudge the shadow up into the crease, blending and softening the edges. Finish with liner and multiple coats of mascara—both in blackest black to really make eyes stand out. Try: Tuxedo Black Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick; Blackest Black Ink Liner.

A Touch of Shimmer

I love a touch of shimmer on the eyes, cheeks or lips. The glittering finish instantly dresses up any look and gives the face a pretty, incandescent glow. To keep your look “grown up”, wear shimmer in small doses; limit it to one or two areas on the face. Try: Old Hollywood Eye Palette; Solid Gold or Chrome Glitter Nail Polish.

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AT THE FOREFRONT Pauline Juan drills the facts of fashion

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If, in some jocose parallel universe, Sun Tzu were an editor-in-chief of a fashion magazine, would he have written The Art of War the same? Fashion is more an art than a science in the same way war is. An editor in chief groups together a competent army, gathers the best artillery, strategizes accordingly and looks good doing it; an army needs the people’s trust to thrive, and people won’t trust an army that does not look good. An army represents the economy of its state, and in a time where consumerism and democracy have almost replaced colonialism and autocracy, fashion has become the persuasive economic gauge. The biggest difference only is that warriors gambled lives while today, editors gamble reputations.

Pauline Juan, editor in chief of one of the country’s leading fashion consumer magazines, explains it plainly.

“Magazines — especially fashion magazines — are a great indicator of what kind of society we live in. You can tell a lot about a country by scanning its fashion magazines: how well the economy is doing, what they spend their money on, [and] how open they are to new and different ideas.” Call them an unnecessary waste of paper but magazines reflect the signs of the times. They are, Pauline points out, “a great anthropological resource.”

“It is a great honor to fly the flag for Philippine fashion for designers, photographers, models, makeup artists, art directors and editors who, as an ensemble, work on a product that is somewhere in between pop culture phenomenon, artistic endeavor and consumer guide,” she says.

This writer is eager to see what she comes up with next. Right now is an exciting time for fashion, because it will take these people a hefty volume of creative juice to ethically manifest the state of the Philippines in context of the recent deaths and catastrophes. When asked how she

will rebuild the wardrobe of a female Leyte survivor with zero extra clothes, Pauline replies, “A woman’s clothes tell you her story. It’s hard to give a list of basics to rebuild a wardrobe that would apply to every woman, because it would depend on who that woman is.” She, for example, would put down heels — heels and not jeans — in her top ten, because that’s the kind of person she is. She adds, “And because a pair of fabulous heels really do have the ability to lift my spirits and give me a boost of confidence.

“I dress for myself,” Pauline reiterates. “Most of the time, [what] I’m going to wear [is] based on ideas that I want to make work.” For instance, she asks herself if she can make an outfit work with red tights instead of the commonplace black ones. And when she’s stuck on what to wear, she googles J. Crew. It’s humbling to know that even editors in chief take to online research for daily outfit inspiration.

“Fashion is one of the most basic tools you can use to express yourself. In good times and bad, you always need a creative outlet to make your mark. Those particularly gifted are able to eloquently convey who they are through [their art]. It carries with it the traditions of craftsmen and artisans.”

Art thankfully is now democratic, and Pauline rides the wave by rendering a collaborative leadership. “I like to work with people who bring a wealth of ideas to the table.

I like to work with people who make things happen, those that will do everything it takes to tell the story they see in their mind.” She looks for writers and storytellers, and is fond of people who have fallen in love with fashion. “The kind that does not think scrolling through three hours’ worth of runway photos is work.”

This goes without saying: Fashion is a lot of tedious work. Pauline juggles directing a full fashion magazine

Top, Giambattista Valli, Univers, One Rockwell; pants, Gian Romano; shark jaw necklace, Narra, AC+632, Greenbelt 5; gold necklace, Fah/LUX; white pumps, Balenciaga

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along with raising three boys, and she reveals her secret: “I have awesome nannies!

They pick up the pieces that fall off my very full plate. It also helps that I have a hubby who’s very involved with the boys’ upbringing.” She believes a person has no business having kids if he is not committed to raising them properly. “I’m raising the boys in the same way my mom raised me. I give them the tools and I’m there when they need me.

Otherwise, they figure things out for themselves.” She manages the kids similarly to how she manages her work team: She does not want to cast a shadow over them.

Those who have worked with Pauline or have met her in person knows that she is quiet. Naturally, they wonder about her or are intimidated by her. But she explains, “I’m a thinker. I’m always mulling about something even while I’m pushing the grocery cart.” See, fashion, like war, is a thinker’s game.

“People often forget that fashion is a business — and that fashion week is essentially a trade show. You can’t just focus on design.” Pauline is agreeable when she admits hoping for Filipino designers to become brands, and to get to see that in her lifetime. But she knows the sad truth: Getting to that level is not just a matter of funding from sponsors. This fashion industry needs a wealthier consumer base.

“The wealthier your consumer base, the more it will be able to sustain a variety of brands homegrown and imported,” states Pauline, a Masters graduate in Media and Communications at the London School of Economics. She quips, “I sound like a suit.” But that’s the gauge right there. Consumers purchasing more non-essential items prove one thing: An increase in buying power. The Philippines, the world’s largest business process outsourcing center with a strongly emerging economy and steady growth rates, might grow ready for this sooner than later. (Just look at how many malls are opening.)

One basic The Art of War principle is to know your weaknesses. Pauline knows hers all right, and her strategy is simply to avoid them. “I don’t like to do things I’m not good at.” She admits to never having tried karaoke because she hates her singing voice. Her biggest fear in life, however, is not about embarrassment. “[It is] that my kids grow up to be selfish, lazy and insensitive.”

Nevertheless, she manages to balance everything well. Pauline stands by hard work and paying one’s dues. Her advice to the young guns looking to penetrate the arts and media sphere: “It really does take 10,000 hours to become an expert in your field! Study, apprentice and learn all you can from the masters. No one who works in fashion will tell you it’s as easy as it looks. [There are] a lot of late nights. Blood, sweat and tears go into making things look glamorous and effortless.”

And like Sun Tzu, who said some 2,000 years ago that the supreme art of war is subduing without fighting at all, Pauline finishes gracefully with this tip, “Oh, and be nice. Catty is so overrated.”

•

Top, Balenciaga, Univers, One Rockwell; trousers, Ivar Aseron; neck piece, Valentino; pumps, Maison Martin Margiela, Univers, One Rockwell I N T E R V I E W B Y M ARA S AN T I L L AN M I AN O P HOTO G R AP HY S E AN ARM E N TA S T Y L I N G R I A P RI E TO M AK E UP X E N G Z UL UE TA HAI R K E I G HT Y W O N G

FOR THE LONG HAUL A young brand with a timeless vision is making its mark

Harlan+Holden is a testament to the modern woman ceasing to be the object of fashion; today, she is the subject.

It considers the “slouchy silhouette,” first grown popular in Fall 2012, as more than just a fleeting trend. Fashion brands that seek to be relevant have to think about the woman as their customer — they must cater to her needs and wants, and more importantly, her character. The woman now is strong, no-nonsense, and owns the fact that she needs to be comfortable to live her active lifestyle. Harlan+Holden’s eyecatching display models are a reflection of her: Confident in her femininity and feeling no need to wear skin-tight clothes to look sexy. Harlan+Holden’s style is sophisticated yet unrestricting, with a refined ease.

Comfort clearly plays a big role in the aesthetic. Though lacking in “hanger appeal,” Harlan+Holden garments are fluid and move gracefully with the woman’s body. They come alive when worn by the subject. Harlan+Holden customers are in a hurry when they shop, rushing out for their next meeting. This brand has come to learn this new age predisposition: Women prefer clothes that are easy to wear — no difficult designs. But Harlan+Holden brilliantly provides an array of looks that are refined yet still structured, a far cry from “drab” or “unkempt.” It is simply finding comfort in sophistication.

Being a young brand with a vision and aesthetic that is outside the comfort zone of most Filipino women, a challenge presents itself to Harlan+Holden: To present the slouchy yet sophisticated look in a better light and eventually, gain more acceptance. When asked how, they firmly stand by remaining consistent with their vision, and at the same time, present the modern woman with more beautiful ways to own the look in the upcoming seasons.

• Harlan+Holden is located at Adora, Power Plant Mall and Shangri-La Plaza

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CRADLED BY NATURE An exhilirating trek to Mt. Pinatubo W O RD S AN D P HOTO G RAP HY JE N N Y RO C K E T T

As our old 4x4 jeep made its bumpy way towards Mt. Pinatubo, somewhere along the 40-minute path through Crow’s Valley and under a blinding sun, I was struck by awe: Mt. Pinatubo is an extraordinary example of Mother Nature reclaiming her turf. The undulating ash-and-rock terrain in variable shades of gray and lahar streams constantly evolve and are never the same each day.

There were some signposts of life; green grass thrived in patches, wild caribous bathed in ponds and a handful of young villagers walked through the landscape. Otherwise, there was very little trace of the cities that had thrived before the 1991 world-famous volcanic eruption — a massive explosion that spewed five billion cubic meters of ash and pyroclastic debris as far as Russia. The Mt. Pinatubo eruption was so powerful that the ash it released reportedly dropped the worldwide temperature by 0.5°C. From the foot of the volcano, where I was thoroughly covered by a thin film of dust and ash, it was an arduous two-hour climb across boulders, rocks and fauna. Making it this far, I

wanted nothing but to push on; I felt Mt Pinatubo’s pull. Thankfully, the excitement of reaching the crater’s rim kept adrenaline high.

I've seen photos online of the Pinatubo crater before my trip but when I saw for myself the turquoise blue water cradled by dramatic rock formations, it was difficult not to gasp. It is a calm, picturesque lake scene, made more powerful by the big fact that it's a sleeping giant you dare not wake.

If you're able to swim, do; I had neither the courage nor the will. It was enough for me to be at the mouth of one of the world’s most ferocious volcanoes. If you do swim, be sure to tread the sulfuric lake carefully, to keep the giant in its slumber.

• Activities: • Swim, kayak or take a boat ride on the crater’s lake • Treat yourself to a volcanic ash massage and mud pack at Pinatubo Spa Town • Visit the Dolores and Bueno Hot Springs • See ancestral homes scattered in neighboring towns

How to Get There: From Manila, head to the Sta. Juliana Capas, Tarlac trail.

Near the Tourism Office and base camp of Capas Pinatubo Four Wheelers Club Associate, you will find Pinatubo Spa Town. From there, you can rent a 4 x 4 jeep or meet with a 4 x 4 driver you have made arrangements with in advance.

Organized Pinatubo Tours: • Travel Factor (P2,450) Tel: +632746 5119 • Mobile: +639178475341 to 42 Email: tours@travelfactor.org • TriPinas (P2,090) +6324777446 • +639179037672 Organized tours such as Travel Factor and TriPinas will make all the arrangements for you. If you wish to do the trip a-la-carte, here’s a breakdown of the costs: • Conservation/Environmental fee – P300 per person • Guide fee – P500 (for one to five trekkers) • 4×4 rental – P2500.00 via Skyway (good for five) • Skyway toll fee – P500.00

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UPSCALE YOUR PANTRY The benefits of investing in quality food products Investing on upscale food products may seem overrated, but those who have seen factories manufacture them first-hand will realize just how important it is to stand by brands that strive to provide food options that are naturally delicious. Manufactured in a state-of-the-art, world-class facility, the newly introduced La Filipina pasta is made from high-quality wheat semolina. It was primarily created for those seeking to live well by leading caliber lifestyles, a value RED Magazine most sincerely adheres to. The pasta is al dente, firm to the bite, with a smooth texture and a rich golden amber color that looks as good as it tastes. Pasta dishes aren't just for special celebrations anymore, and consumers can finally achieve premium platters at the comfort of their homes.

La Filipina is part of the leading agricultural-industrial business enterprise propelling the Philippines with world-class farm-to-table nutrition through globally competitive consumer products. The company attributes its success to its policy of high integrity and reliability as a committed provider of quality products and services to customers.

La Filipina pasta is available in the following supermarkets: Landmark, Sta. Lucia, Waltermart, Ever, Puregold and Pioneer.

“We all saw the indomitable Filipino spirit; we might have gotten hurt but we will not be beaten. Everyone came together and found a way to show our countrymen in the typhoon-ravaged areas that we care and they are not alone."

-KAYE TINGA, PHILANTHROPIST

“Material things are meaningless, life is fragile and everything can be taken away from you in an instant. I am now even more grateful. Also, no act of kindness or volunteer effort is too small.

Everyone can make a difference. While the devastation is heartbreaking, it is so beautiful to see people from all over the world come together. Love and compassion make the world a better place. When you share your blessings, be sincere about it.

Sometimes, what people need most is to just feel loved and know someone cares about them.”

-XANDRA ROCHA, OWNER, PINKERTON

"The wrath of Yolanda was a wake-up call. It forced me to reevaluate life and what is important to me, and I realized I really don't need much in life as long as my family is safe. The community togetherness in the country and around the world was moving. I learned that we have a responsibility as human beings to help one another. No matter how small, anyone can help through their time, effort or monetary donation."

-JESSICA TAN-GAN, OPERATIONS AND MERCHANDISING MANAGER, TAN-GAN

C OMPIL ED BY R IA PRI E TO

“I got on the first flight to Tacloban after Yolanda hit, on a PAF C130. It was Saturday. I've covered disasters before, but nothing could have prepared me for the scale of destruction I was about to see. First thing I noticed was the airport. It was destroyed. Dead bodies were inside the wrecked passenger terminal. I walked 15 km into the city from the airport. Along the way, people were walking aimlessly, carrying provisions with them. Bodies were everywhere, houses were hollow shells. Debris in the middle of the road. The look on people's eyes: pure desperation. I guess, the lessons learned: disaster preparedness should be ingrained into our culture, down to the basic household. Awareness is key. Calibrated response is crucial. Logistics should be improved, and command and control facilities need to be in place immediately.

The Filipino spirit, no matter how tough the times get, is immensely resilient. We, as a people, are survivors.”

-RAFFY SANTOS, JOURNALIST

“I learned that the bayanihan spirit is alive and well. Whether driven by grief, empathy, compassion or anger, when called to action, people act! People do. Everyone is willing to help any way they possibly can."

-VERNICE SONGCO, OWNER, BUNGALOW 300

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WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM TYPHOON YOLANDA? “There is no harm in preparing for the worst. When it's your life at stake, you either save it or lose it, because you can depend on nobody but yourself. Gravity of danger is in the news and in the movies. All basic needs are available in the market. To survive, all you need is some effort and a little creativity."

-SENIOR SUPERINTENDENT JON MIANO, CHIEF OF THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE OPERATIONS CENTER

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THE BASIC TRUTH Amit Dasgupta's three elements of happiness

At the farewell dinner of His Excellency Amit Dasgupta, an employee said, "I have learned more from him in two months than in all the years I have worked here."

Dasgupta's energy is uplifting: full of warm, hopeful words that touch the spirit and leave you wiser. After his tenure as the Indian ambassador to the Philippines, he has nothing but love for Filipinos. “A lot of your kindness roots from your simplicity. You are not complex, you don’t mess around and make a mess out of things.”

Maybe it’s his intellect or his Hinduism that gives him a wide, organic perspective of the world. “Life is not black or white. You can understand black only if you understand white, and vice versa. They co-exist.”

He sees birth and death the same way. “They must be seen as a cosmic union. We get upset when we hear of death but many spiritual masters will tell you, ‘Don’t, because it’s part of life.’”

It is evident he contemplates a lot about people: Why people feel what they feel, why they do what they do.

“What drives people to do things?”

Success for many may lie with money, but it's only temporary happiness; Dasgupta believes there are much bigger human instincts than this.

Passion

He tells a story about Michelangelo: “When Michelangelo was tasked to create the statue of David, he was told it was going to be displayed on top of the Church, very high up so when

people looked, they would surely see it. When Michelangelo finished the front of the figure, they said, 'Okay, we can put it up.' He argued, 'No, I haven’t finished.' 'But it's finished.' 'No, I have to work on the back of the statue.' 'Why do you want to finish the back when nobody will ever see it?' Michelangelo replied, 'I will always know the statue was never completed. I have to do it for myself.'” Passion is when you love what you do and do what you love. You do so for your own happiness.

Dispassion

“Dispassion is doing what you do without the expectation of result,” he says. Even when things don’t go your way, you must not lose love for what you do. Do it simply because it's what you’ve always wanted in the first place.

People must always go back to ‘doing’ in its very essence.

Compassion

“Compassion means having other people's interests at heart. When you have this, you combine all three elements, thus your chances of success are bigger than the [temporary] pursuits that many have. Involving others is the culmination of our being human. I don’t write in order to get published, although it gives me a good feeling; I write because I want to transmit. When you do something, you want to be able to influence people.

Otherwise, you become a hermit.” -MSM Dasgupta’s lauded book The Lost Fragrance, a philosophical fiction story for children on life, death and meaning, is available on Amazon.com.