Red 15 january01262014

PINKY WEBB

In Full Color

www.inquirer.net/red

JANUARY 2014

Editor’s Letter ON REDISCOVERING

PHOTOGRAPHY JO ANN BITAGCOL

2

2013 was tough, and I'm sure a lot of people are with me when I say I welcome the new year with relief. I aspire for this issue, with the theme 'Classic and Timeless', to reignite spirit, if at all it has been dampened by the past year.

The plight of 2013 has brought to my mind the fact that most of us do not bother to take a second look, whether it is at the most mundane of things, such as memos at work, or at profound things, like important life choices. Our stories evoke the same thought. Mich Dulce's recent art show beautifully executes an encouragement for women to rethink her role in society; our travel section exploRED features Bhutan, the home of the happiest people in the world and an inspiring example of rediscovering nature and its simplicity, and why it makes people happy; while most people think Pantone's Color of the Year is a shallow fad invented to victimize consumerists, our fashion editorial attiRED discusses why it is actually important; and lastly, our cover girl, Pinky Webb, someone that people watch everyday on television delivering news from a desk, is humanized by a cover feature.

Like her, there are a lot of other people, and things, that we see everyday and all the time and we do nothing but let them pass us by. I say get off your smartphone, talk to people and look at them in the eye. The things we see everyday, we see for a reason, and there is always something new to discover about them. With our January issue, I invite you to be more discerning of your surroundings and the people you come across, and learn their story.

Ria Prieto FOLLOW US ON

Inquirer RED Magazine-OFFICIAL

@inquirerRED

inquirerred

Want to see the other issues of Inquirer RED Magazine? Check out www.inquirer.net/red

AD

Contents admiRED /16

Pinky Webb In Full Color

ON THE COVER: Men's polo, Paul Smith, Greenbelt 5

6 8 15 16 22 24 29 30

art Mich Dulce's art finds strength in pink attiRED Colors of 2014 squaRED Jojie Lloren's favorite things admiRED The gentler side of tough anchorwoman Pinky Webb

inspiRED Eclectic themes converge in this designed space exploRED Believe in magic once again in Bhutan inquiRED What makes you nostalgic? empoweRED Barnaba Fornasetti on his father Piero's

design legacy

Editor-in-chief Art Director Associate Editor Copy Editor

Ria Prieto Nina Muallam Mara Santillan Miano September Grace Mahino

Contributing writers

External Relations Officer

Raymond Abrenica, Ginggay Joven-dela Merced Nina Mendoza Tammy David, Noel dela Merced, Roy Macam Sophie Villanueva

Board Chairperson

Alexandra Prieto-Romualdez

Contributing photographers

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

art

Mich Dulce’s first solo art show astounds W O RD S B Y N I N A M E N D O Z A

Fashion designer and corsetiere Mich Dulce, who is also known for her unique hat designs, revealed an intimate part of her past through her first solo art show recently held at Finale Art File entitled “One Day, I’ll Be Everything You Ever Wanted.”

Her mother, who raised Mich alone, became a huge influence in her life. With wisdom brought about by her mom’s traditional outlook of a woman’s role in life, Mich’s statement pieces reveal their contrasting beliefs about femininity and sexuality, expressed in brief but playfully smutty statements such as “Nakakahiya ang babaeng hindi marunong sa kusina” or “After your husband makes love to you, always say thank you.” Her idiosyncratic style demonstrates fearlessness, going against the norm of subdued art and leaving the viewer the freedom to interpret them.

In the form of a life-size dollhouse, her exhibit was doused in a pink and white palette. The roof is lined with roses, like the one in the photograph. The interesting wallpaper affixed on the walls contradicted the simplicity of its art layout portraying risqué sketches of women in various poses. An eye-catching section of the exhibit contains a seemingly ordinary toilet bowl, that when opened, reveals a twist: a mirror. Her art show is of an acquired taste to reserved individuals, but undeniably this artist’s vision, along with her endearingly quirky character, is something to watch out for.

•

C OMPOUN D, 2 24 1 DON C HI N O R OC ES AVEN UE, MAK AT I

POWER IN PINK

PHOTOG R APHS COU RT ESY O F FI N A LE A R T FI L E, LOC AT ED AT W AR E HO US E 1 7, L A F UE R Z A

6

acquiRED

LUXURY SPORTSMAN The latest season's chronographs from La Montre Hermès W O RD S B Y N I N A M E N D O Z A

The Hermès brand has quality of craftsmanship embedded at the heart of its production, with distinctive arches of creativity seen in every sports-inspired piece. As such, Hermès enables sport to express its true nature as an art of living.

Inspired by the equestrian universe, the Arceau Chrono Bridon collection has come into fruition, an extension of the original line by Henri d’Origny. Beautifully crafted, the improved leather straps adorning the central steel timepiece come from the same material used in bridles, the bradoon; it's a key piece in its motif. A mechanical composition enriched with equestrian accents, the Arceau Chrono Bridon is creatively nurtured by the innate elegance of horses.

The Clipper Sport, the subsequent line after the Clipper collection, is infused with features imitating the art of sailing, whether competitive or for leisure. A steel and titanium creation, its bezel is claimed to be reminiscent of the portholes of 19th century ships, while its colorful rubber straps are emblazoned with the initial H for Hermès.

attiRED

PANTONE PICKER Why the Color of the Year matters

Pantone Inc., the world's authority on color and provider of color systems, annually comes up with a staple color that influences the most important tastemakers in the industries of fashion, music, film, design, travel and pop culture. While most may think that this whole Color of the Year issue is something society invented to give people something to talk about on slow days, it is actually a significant cultural aspect whose symbolism must match the current global issues, economic weather and collective feeling.

For example, Emerald, 2013's Color of the Year, symbolized renewal, prosperity and growth — an apt representation of the hopeful upswing that followed the quite looming energy of 2012, a year of bomb attacks, forest fires and earthquakes, and the year that everyone said would signal the world's end.

Of course, 2013 came with its own set of weighty upheavals from all four corners of the world, from the more-destructive-than-usual natural catastrophes to the public's growing mistrust of powerful institutions and the ongoing political struggles between countries, cultures and religions. When the year finally took a bow last New Year's Eve, there was a universal sigh of relief, as 2013 was not the easiest time to live through for most people.

But that doesn't discount the pockets of hope that the year also offered. There was a sense of renewal and growth especially among spiritually beleaguered

Catholics with the announcement of the new Pope.

As for prosperity, even with the setbacks caused by succeeding calamities in the country, the optimism for economic, social and moral turnarounds remain within most — emerald fits this dogged sense of hope perfectly, after all.

2014's Color of the Year is Radiant Orchid, representing imagination, creativity and spirituality — three things Pantone claims are increasingly valued in today's society. As Pantone puts it, “An enchanting harmony of fuschia, purple and pink undertones, Radiant Orchid inspires confidence and emanates great joy, love and health. It is a captivating purple, one that draws you in with its beguiling charm.” It's hope with a sense of magic, a color that is briefly glimpsed during the earliest hours of sunrise.

Interestingly, this hue's purple pink undertones are complementary to mint green, a cooler, ghost-like echo of the vivid Emerald. This could be interpreted as a continuing influence of last year's drive towards growth, now majorly influenced by spirituality and creativity — a growth with direction and depth. Or maybe it's as simple as Radiant Orchid being such a pretty color that it's hard to resist. With 2014 still ripe with possibilities, it's a fresh shade that matches the current mood. Who knows what awaits the world within the next 12 months but for now, we're celebrating a new beginning.

•

RADIANT ORCHID Bally stretch-jersey dress, Diane Von Furstenberg, Rustan's Makati; blush, Make Up For Ever, SM Aura; lipstick, MAC, Power Plant Mall,; Lady Double Tour watch, Swatch, Power Plant Mall; flats, Kate Spade, 158 Designer's Blvd., Alabang Town center

TEAL Bowtie, Lanvin, Univers, One Rockwell; Aqua Pour Homme, Bulgari, Rustan's Makati; pique shirt, Lacoste, Greenbelt 5; belt, Gucci, Greenbelt 5; sneakers, Nike, Power Plant Mall

CORAL Blush, Nars, Rustan's Alabang; Marcie bag, ChloĂŠ, Adora; ballet flats, Lanvin, Univers, One Rockwell; pencil skirt, Bogner, en.bogner.com

FUCHSIA Lingerie, Deborah Marquit, deborahmarquit.com; Happy Sport watch, Chopard, Greenbelt 5, Makati; luggage tote, CĂŠline, Univers, One Rockwell, Makati; heels, Sergio Rossi, sergiorossi.com

ORANGE Sunglasses, Super, Powerplant Mall, Makati; sweater, E. Tautz; etautz.com/shop; sneakers, Converse, Shangri-La Mall, Mandaluyong; Rebecca Swivel Armchair, sohoConcept, cressina.com

baRED

DREAM CREAM Experience the lavish effects of the limited edition Skin Caviar Luxe Cream WO R D S BY N I N A MEN D OZ A

14 The Skin Caviar collection has remained a strong surviving product line under La Prairie through the years, sold worldwide and manufactured

by Beiersdorf, a company known for creating quality brands and products.

The label puts forward a new product worthy for beauty enthusiasts: the Skin Caviar Luxe Cream. It is a miracle cream that brings youthful radiance to its wearer, revealing a smoother and satiny complexion.

Containing a revolutionary formula that tones and firms facial skin with an added effect of contouring, the La Prairie Skin Caviar Luxe Cream is definitely a lavish blend to have. It reduces dark spots and blemishes to create a fresh and clean look that is deemed cover-worthy. With superior anti-oxidants for increased collagen production, it shields the skin from aging, bringing moisture and nutrients to the surface.

A limited edition under the Skin Caviar collection, it is “A piece of Caviar everyone can own”, and a product we can guiltlessly splurge on to be part of our daily beauty regimen.

• La Prairie Skin Caviar Luxe Cream, Rustan's Makati

squaRED

THE ENTERTAINER

PHOTOG R APHY BY TA MMY DAVI D

Jojie Lloren’s workspace is built for his two favorite hobbies

Jojie Lloren’s atelier, situated in a historic compound with neighboring artsy edifices like an art gallery and an export furniture showroom, is separate from the house he lives in. It was first built for clothes-making, and eventually developed into a comfortable space for friends and loved ones. Natural light flows in beautifully through the windows and onto the antique painted tiles, with a frequent cool coastal breeze that makes one feel as if he’s far from Manila. Lloren personally curated this vignette, a showing of his favorite things: “[From these curios, it is apparent] I love Christmas, because I’m a Christmas baby. The books are a reflection of what I love to do — designing, cooking and entertaining guests. The digital print is by Jun-jun Sta. Ana. The chair is by Eric Paras. (You must see his work, just there, right across! His showroom is beautiful.) The vase is a DIY project. There was a time I was really into stuffed pheasants, and I chanced upon this one in a surplus store in Japan. I perched it on this stand along with ornaments I found around the house.”—MSM

admiRED

16

SILVERY OFF SCREEN Straight news anchorwoman Pinky Webb reveals her gentler light

OPPOSITE PAGE: Top and skirt, Paul Smith, Greenbelt 5

Top, Valli Rockwell; pants, Romano; white pumps, Romano ; shark jaw ; gold necklace, Fahlux

18

Pinky Webb enters the room. She looks vicious, and she is not even trying. Her stance is tall and steadfast, her body toned and tan, her voice firm and assertive. Adding fuel to her fieriness is that she is a seasoned newscaster and broadcast journalist — and certainly a darn better interviewer — so I cower just a bit and ask if we can just stick to a written interview (to which I get a perplexed look from my editor in chief). Clad in a white dress that shows off her taut figure, she looks me straight in the eye and asks, “Why can’t we just do it today?” And, well, how does one say no to Pinky Webb? Personal interview it is.

But she is cordial, and she even helps me through some prosaic questions with a smile. The easiest way to understand Pinky Webb — beyond the intimidating emanation — is that she is much like the nature of her job: Straightforward, true and simple in being.

I tell her honestly about the first impression she gives me, and she, seemingly unsurprised, just shrugs. “I just look that way. People can think I’m a snob easily. I’m very down-to-earth and humorous; I love joking around. These things, I can’t do on television. When you are a newscaster, you’re not allowed to give your own opinion. You can joke around with your co-anchors to keep things light, but when you read the news, you can’t make side comments.”

Beyond meeting different subjects, keeping the public informed and assisting in the uncovering of the truth, Webb discusses that the most major aspect of her line of work is simply knowing — knowing people, knowing what really happens, knowing every detail. “In a way, you get jaded. You get used to deaths, casualties and injuries. [But] for me, I still cry easily when I [am affected by] a story, even a really simple story: when a mother dies, when a bus accident takes people’s lives.”

She tells me about how she met a mother devastated from the loss of her breadwinner son in the recent Magallanes bus accident. “While I was interviewing her, I was also tearing up. After 17 years of doing this, I still get affected. But of course, I try not to show it.”

Composure is key for a newscaster, but currently, she fills the role of both newscaster/anchorwoman and reporter. “I like them both.

Anchoring is hard, because when you interview, you better know what you're talking about. It's embarrassing to the subject when you don't. Being a reporter is very challenging. You have to call up your

OPPOSITE PAGE: Men's polo, Paul Smith, Greenbelt 5

subjects, and some of them won't take your calls, especially if the story is controversial. But you have to keep calling, you don't stop, no pride involved!” Six tries is usually her maximum. “Some of them won’t answer at all, because they know my number. They know it’s a press call.” And after she collects information, she is yet to re-write the edits and voice the report, then get stuck in traffic on the way home. It’s a rigorous job.

Every now and then, Webb still gets assigned out-of-town coverages, and she says yes every time. Bravely, she flies to Bohol shortly after the earthquake last year in October. She tells, “We were having lunch. I was already writing, [and] I had my bag and my laptop out on the table.

And then the table started shaking, and then it shook even harder.”

Webb exclaims “Let's go!” then grabs her things and runs outside. Her companions say that in just two seconds after the aftershocks occurred, Webb is packed up and ready. She recalls, laughing at herself, "Then my producer gestured for me to come back. I was right under the roof.

If things got worse, I couldn't save myself anyway.”

Webb began as a newswriter, and despite the prominent family background, had to go through the usual media company initiation.

“They were like, ‘Oh, so you’re Pinky Webb. You’re the daughter of who and who.’ I made coffee for them, things like that, but I didn’t take it personally.”

Contrary to her dominant air, she admits she is actually sensitive.

She is the youngest girl in the family, and was spoiled by her father.

“But I think I’ve outgrown that. I think,” she jokes. I respond that being spoiled may be the explanation to her strong, go-getter attitude, but she argues, “Hey, spoiled children can be very weak too. There are two sides to that.” I ask, “And on which side are you?” She giggles, “I don’t know, I’m still figuring it out.”

When it comes to figuring things out, Webb is resolute. “I am happy where I am right now. I get the best of both worlds as a TV anchor and a reporter,” she tells. She originally wanted to be a newscaster in college,

but that evolved into something more — today she does reportorials too, something she still finds challenging after years in the industry.

But she is unfazed. “I don’t like worrying about the future, especially when it comes to work,” she shares. “I really try not to make mistakes at work. I try to get all my details correct. When I do a story, I cover it, I interview, I write, and I voice it. The mistakes will be mine alone. In life, what else can you do but let it go and learn from it? When you make mistakes in the past, and you feel like, say, that person did not deserve it, you try not to do it again. That's all you can do.”

And just as she does not overthink her past, she does not overthink her future. “I’ve never been the type [to make plans], not even a year from now. I live in the now,” she says, and adds laughingly, “I just want a day off.

“I just do my best every time, and wait for tomorrow to happen. You will always be blessed if you do good things,” she says. “But you cannot please everybody. If you’re able to accept criticism and take it with a grain of salt, that’s a good thing. It’s [about] assessing yourself and changing for the better. We are not born into this world to please people.”

And at the end of the day, credibility is almost all she needs.

“Everything else follows. Hard work may be number two, but you have to be credible [foremostly], not just to other people, but also to yourself.” According to Webb, get the truth, write factual scripts, don’t let anybody influence you, don’t do favors for people because you are friends and finally, don’t accept money.

•

I N T E R V I EW BY MA R A SA N T I LLA N MI A N O PHOTOG R A PHY BY R OY MA C A M ST YLI N G BY R I A PR I ETO M AK E UP B Y D O N D E JESUS O F MA C C OSMET I C S HA I R BY KEI G HT Y WON G

Printed sweater, Paul Smith, Greenbelt 5

inspiRED

EXOTIC FETISHIST Eclectic curios from all around the world define this creative duo AS S E E N O N W W W.C URI O US S E T T I N G .C O M

22

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Most of the furniture in the unit is from PhoeNix Home, a furniture collection where the owner is Principal Designer; The walls are lined with books on fashion, design, art, architecture and cooking; The silver pig cast is a trademark of award-winning industrial designer Harry Allen; A silver-framed mirror leans against the wall, both to deflect light into the room and to make the space look bigger; The paintings are so dissimilar in themes, but accomplish one goal: adding dimension.

P HOTO G RAP HY B Y TAM M Y D AV I D

They are individuals with an obvious fetish for exquisite aesthetic. If it isn’t made clear by the photographs yet, let this writer reiterate that they both love all things beautiful — art, fashion, travel, food and interior design. This 100-square-meter condominium unit originally had bright red walls, with a modern Asian theme; but as the owners both work in high-strung industries, that was all too mercurial.

While one of them was on a business trip to New York, the other, a furniture/ interior designer by profession, redecorated the place and changed the color scheme to green and gray. Years later, he did it again, while his partner was in Europe; this time, it was a major renovation. “I came home to a brand-new home and I really loved it.”

The style, a collection of equally interesting vignettes that makes the most out of the modest space, is evidently eclectic. The decorator’s favorite shopping destinations for home decor is New York and Japan.

Stark metallic ornaments contrast against the coolcolored walls and verdure. The space is filled with a diversified combination of objes d’art: The skull is from Bali, and the silver pig cast is by award-winning industrial designer Harry Allen. The walls, lined with books covering various topics like cooking, design, art and architecture, boast revered art: Bencab, Lao Lianben, Tom Epperson, Lynard Paras and more.

The decorator remarks, “I like how everything inside just seems to organically blend together. In a way, the

contrast seems to be what ties the whole look together, which is very much my style in decorating.”

Natural light flows in beautifully in and onto the wood panel floors, which brings out the green walls — a brilliant trick that prevents the room from looking too dark. By the windows there is a silverframed mirror, both to deflect light and to make the space look larger. The decorations evoke that the curator knows what he is doing; he studied at the Philippine School of Interior Design in Manila, and took Intensive Studies in Interior Design at Parsons in New York. He has interned for design icon Vicente Wolf, and at his young age, is principal designer for his own furniture line.

The couple redecorates the place during the holidays, a budding tradition, to make space for dinner guests (they both love to cook). On normal days, they prefer to just chill and relax at home instead of going out on dates. “We both lead such busy lives that quiet time at home is what we usually appreciate the most.”

They share that the kitchen preparation is what they look forward to the most, and to make it even more special, they curate beautiful “tablescapes” and open a bottle of wine — a simple but elegant treat to reward themselves for a job well done.—MSM

PhoeNix Home furniture is available at 6075-B Palma St. Poblacion Makati City

exploRED

THE MAGIC OF BHUTAN The home of the happiest people in the world W O R DS BY GI N GGAY J O VE N -DE L A M E R C E D P H OTO GR A P H S BY N O E L DE LA M E R C E D

24

When we were children, we believed the fascinating tales of enchanted forests, flying dragons and mythical creatures. We embraced the idea of magical shrubs that grew on snow-capped mountains and healing potions collected from whirling river valleys.

And then one day, we awoke and started dismissing what we had romanticized our entire childhood. “It is the stuff of fairy tales,” we quip, “and fairy tales just aren’t real.”

The modern age’s growing climate of cynicism permeates our midst, and the rigidity of routine wipes out the wonder pulsating in our veins.

Meanwhile, somewhere in the vast Himalayan region – in a pristine enclave that has remained unadulterated – the fantastic legends of tiger dragons and miracle orange-bearing trees endure. And in exploring this beguiling kingdom that is Bhutan, even the most jaded will tend to believe in magic once again.

Nestled in the midst of India, Tibet, China and Nepal, Bhutan possesses a mystifying landscape replete with stunning vistas and unrivaled natural splendor. Yet as beguiling as its topography may be, the true beauty of this country rests in the warmth of its people and the wisdom of their culture.

Bhutan is the only country in the world to adopt the Gross National Happiness — as opposed to Gross National Product — as a gauge for their nation’s overall well being. This definition of happiness is not literal, although a superficial one. This yardstick is their way of assessing their people’s overall quality of life hinged on spiritual, economic, environmental, physical, mental, political, professional and social wellness – and the harmonious synthesis of all these facets. And in immersing with the locals, it is not hard to understand why the Bhutanese are reputed as the happiest people on Earth.

LEFT TO RIGHT, TOP TO BOTTOM: The sprawling Haa Valley; Rinpung Dzong also known as the Fortress on a Heap of Jewels; Gateway to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital; Monks at the Rinpung Dzong; The eldest nun in Kila Goemba at 83 years old; Foggy view while climbing the Tiger’s Nest; Ta Dzong, which houses Bhutan’s National Museum, overlooks the Paro River; Drukgyel Dzong, built in 1648, to control the northern route to Tibet; Kila Goemba, the oldest nunnery in Bhutan, is a four-hour hike from Bhutan’s highest road, Chele La Pass

The most iconic Bhutanese image ever conjured: The Tiger’s Nest or Taktsang Goemba. Legend has it that this cliff side was where Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) landed on the back of a flying tigress, bringing Buddhism to Bhutan from Tibet.

26

Planning Your Trip • There are very few flights that enter Bhutan through its sole international entry point, the Paro International Airport. Bhutan’s flag carrier flies to and from Bangkok, Dhaka and Delhi. But if you can, do take the Druk Air flight from Kathmandu. It is the only route that flies over the majestic Mount Everest. And on a clear day, a glance outside the plane window offers a unique eye-level vantage point. It is simply mesmerizing.

• Bhutan requires a visa for all visitors except citizens of India, Bangladesh and the Maldives. The tour operator from the hotel will arrange for this even prior to your visit.

• Bhutan is not an inexpensive place to visit. Just to set foot in their country, the royal government of Bhutan requires a daily minimum rate of $200-250 per night (or more, depending on your choice of accommodation) including a daily royalty fee of $65, plus a daily free independent traveler surcharge of $30-40. This is just the base cost.

• While Thimphu is Bhutan’s capital, choose a hotel in the Paro area instead. o Uma by Como o Amankora o Zhiwa Ling o Nak-Sel Boutique Hotel & Spa o Gangtey Palace Hotel Things To Know About Bhutan • It is the only country in the world without any stoplights in its entire nation.

• It is the only country in the world where every body is still garbed in their vibrantly hued national costumes for everyday wear: Kiras for women and Gohs for men.

• It is only country in the world to ban smoking tobacco entirely.

Ironically, cannabis grows everywhere here but it is illegal for consumption.

• Archery is the national sport and national past time.

• Most hotel rooms have no air conditioning. Ten months out of the year, Bhutan enjoys cool to freezing climate.

• Bernardo Bertolucci filmed scenes from Little Buddha starring Keanu Reeves in Paro.

Experiencing Bhutan • Marvel at the most amazing and most important place to visit in Bhutan: Taktsang Goemba.

Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) landed on the back of a flying tigress on this cliff side, bringing Buddhism to Bhutan from Tibet. It is a steep two-hour climb through edelweiss-covered ridges to get to the Tiger’s Nest viewpoint.

• Wind through pine forests and explore the fortress-like monastery Zurig Dzong; the Fortress on a Heap of Jewels, Rinpung Dzong; Ta Dzong, which houses Bhutan’s National Museum; Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan known for its magical orange tree that bears fruit all year round; and Drukgyel Dzong, the fortress built to control the Northern route to Tibet.

• Drive up to Chele La Pass, the highest road pass in Bhutan at 3,988 meters. Here starts the challenging hike snaking upwards to Kila Goemba, an ancient nunnery built in the 9th century as a place for serene retreat and meditation.

• Visit Thimphu, Bhutan’s center of government, religion and commerce. Thimphu is where traditional Bhutanese ways mingle with modern life. It is here where one can discover colorful finds in the market; witness a rare glimpse of the Takin, Bhutan’s national animal; and immerse in Bhutanese culture through the Folk Heritage Museum, the National Institute of 13 Arts and Crafts and the National Textile Museum.

• Thimphu is also home to the most important edifice in Bhutan: the Fortress of the Glorious Religion, built in 1641 and then rebuilt by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in the 1960s. Tashi Chhoe Dzong is home to government ministries, His Majesty’s secretariat and the central monk body.

If these activities are all too much, quiet time convening with Bhutan’s stunning environment is a rare treat in itself. Take in all of Bhutan’s visual poetry and profound philosophies, and recapture that dreamy innocence all over again.

•

desiRED

CALIFORNIA GIRL Los Angeles handbag brand Donatienne is refreshingly colorful

FROM TOP: Megan Black Fur; Megan Pattern Fur, a versatile night out clutch; Nikki Black/Red, a spacious bag for girls who love to overpack, Donatienne, donatiennehandbags.com�

Donatienne founder and California native Nikki Erwin was inspired by her coastal upbringing when she created her line of bags. “Fond memories of saturated blues and greens from the ocean, yellows from unbleached hair and pinks and purples from childhood beach towels all came to mind when creating the line.”

Her bags have become a favorite in West Hollywood; Donatienne has been seen carried by celebrities such as Blake Lively, Jessica Alba, Erin Heatherton and Cameron Diaz, and has appeared on Entourage, Gossip Girl and The Hangover 3.

In her interview with RED Magazine, it is evident Nikki knows her customer. She describes the Donatienne woman: “[She is] a girl on top of the trends who isn't afraid of color, the type who likes her bag to have function, as well as beautiful aesthetic. She's a day-to-night, girl-about-town kind of girl. She carries her laptop to work in one bag, heads to the gym/yoga/ spin/workout in another, and then might end up at a red carpet or charity event carrying one of our clutches. She's very fashionentertainment-savvy — she knows who's who, and what they are wearing. She also loves to travel, and has a bag to suit each one of her voyages. But most importantly, she is down-to-earth and will always be a Cali girl at heart, even if she isn't from here.”—MSM

desiRED

HOOD BY AIR GOES GLOBAL MAKEUP ARTIST TO THE ICONS L.A. native Gregory Arlt grew up in a small, picturesque suburbia called Westchester, in a corner house with a gate, lawn and white picket fence.

Central Los Angeles is still the “big city” to him, and growing up, little did he know he was going to be a sought-after makeup artist with a clientele composed of remarkably iconic women like Gwen Stefani, Dita Von Teese and Liza Minnelli.

He coins himself a “beauty exorcist.” “Instead of piling makeup on the face, I bring out a woman’s beauty, respecting her features, bone structure, coloring and most importantly, her personality.” The first time he worked with Liza Minnelli, it took him almost two hours to put makeup on her. “She was very, very, very specific about her makeup. She went ‘I like to go thicker, then thinner…’ and then I realized, she is an icon. I respect that. The next day, it took us 40 minutes.” After a few times of working together, she opened up to him more. “I was like, ‘You know, I think it’d be amazing if we did dada-dada…’ and she said, “Well, let’s try it!’ It’s just about building trust.”

According to Arlt, it’s all about being intuitive. “I keep asking people what they are into, what they like and how they want to see themselves.

The thing about people like Dita or Gwen is they’ve truly created iconic look for themselves.” If a girl wants to be impressionable, there are many different elements involved: having confidence to pull it off, knowing who you want to appeal to, knowing what looks good on you, and more.

Arlt says, “The most important thing is to be yourself, and being happy with yourself. If you’re going to a party, maybe it’s not the right night to pull off what you’ve never done before.” Arlt, who is evidently passionate about makeup, tells, “Makeup is the ultimate disposable accessory. In order to stay impressionable, do something that you’re comfortable with.”—MSM

Hood by Air takes its wings up with the launch of their new online store displaying its sportswear designs patterned in a more visual layout.

The brand boasts numerous high-profile clients and game changers in the fashion scene such as Drake, Rihanna and Kanye West. New York bound, this young label aims to reach its multitude of cyber fans in this new venture that unfurls a fresh territory to dominate.—NM

THE LEGACY CONTINUES The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. has announced that Jane Lauder, granddaughter of cofounder Estée Lauder, has been named Global Brand President of Clinique. Lynn Greene, who has helmed Clinique since 2006, tells in her Business Wire interview, “Jane is a very driven and talented leader. With her deep knowledge of today’s global consumer, I am delighted to have her back on the Clinique team where I know she will be extremely successful in advancing the long heritage of innovation.”

The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. is one of the world’s top manufacturers of quality skin care, haircare, makeup and fragrance products, sold in over 150 countries under the following brand labels: Estée Lauder, Clinique, MAC, Bobbi Brown, Tommy Hilfiger, La Mer, Michael Kors, Tom Ford, Coach, Ojon, Smashbox, Ermenegildo Zegna and Tory Burch, to name a few.—MSM

inquiRED

WHAT MAKES YOU NOSTALGIC?

C OMPIL ED BY R I A PR IE TO

“High school days, sunny windy afternoons, Hall & Oates and Toto, watching gymnastics, school campuses, own first home in Ecology Village where we brought home our firstborn, San Lorenzo Park, and the list goes on...”

–MARGS LOPEZ

“I have an appreciation for anything classic, particularly the 1920s when the US was starting to boom and could see all the glamour people had.”

–ALEX GUERRERO-REYES

"Old photos."

-CANDY DIZON

“It's got to be music. It's so powerful that every time I hear a song, my mind goes back to that time and all of its old memories.” –ROY MACAM “Nothing makes me more nostalgic than remembering my grandparents who have passed on, and their favorite things or food and seasons; My abuelito’s favorite chair at the beach where we would nap, my abuelita’s fetuccine, seeing crossword puzzles that my abuelito used to solve everyday, even Christmas has become a nostalgic season for me. ” –SOFIA GENATO

“Music from the '80s, of course!

I'm a child of the '80s. Listening to music from that era brings me back to my teenage years when things were simpler, cheaper and more special. I also listen to them when I need inspiration or to cheer me up, even to wake me up in the morning.”

–JAMES REYES

empoweRED

SOUND IDEAS On Piero Fornasetti's centennial anniversay, his son Barnaba Fornasetti speaks to the tune of his father's extraordinary eclectic repertoire.

I N T E RV I E W B Y RAY M O N D AB RE N I C A

What fragrance calms you?

The fragrance of my garden, since gardening is very relaxing for me. For this reason I’ve recently added a new candle fragrance to the “Fornasetti Profumi per la Casa” collection: Flora di Fornasetti. Flora di Fornasetti is a voluptuous mélange of floral, green and woody notes including ivy, lily of the valley, iris, jasmine, tuberose, sandalwood and musk. It is inspired by the lush flora that fills the garden that envelopes my house.

As close collaborators, what was your father’s friendship with Gio Ponti like?

The relationship between Gio Ponti and my father was above all professional. My father has always used the impersonal “you” with him. It was a friendship, but it was based on a great respect.

Ponti used to lunch at the Fornasetti home every Wednesday since it is near the Architecture University where he was a teacher.

How important is design education in your opinion, given that you grew up in a home filled with design?

It’s important and – in some way – even difficult since you have to match and balance beauty, conceptuality and practicality.

Your weekend ritual begins with..and ends with..

I’ve no rituals for the weekend. Actually, I hate the concept of weekend and also that of rituals.

Everybody should be able to choose spontaneously the moment for a break. I would be for the abolition of scheduled holidays and observances.

I don’t like to see people flock in the traffic jam of the weekend.

Inevitably, I’ve more free time on Sundays and I use it to take care of my garden.

•

CLOCKWISE, FROM LEFT: A portrait of Piero Fornasetti; Tray, Teatro alla Scala, wood, printed, lacquered and painted by hand, 48x60cm; some of Fornasetti's sketches; his iconic Tema e Variazioni plate series featuring the face of opera singer Lina Cavalieri, an image he saw from a French magazine; chair, Musicale, bent wood, printed, lacquered and painted by hand, a collaboration with Gio Ponti among many desks, furniture, trumeau, cabinets and interiors.

The Piero Fornasetti exhibition “100 years Practical Madness“, curated by Barnaba Fornasetti who still carries on his father’s work, runs until 9 February 2014 at La Triennale di Milano Design Museum. Visit triennale.org.

BRIDAL RETREAT

Fuss-free wedding preparations are possible with Rustan’s Weddings and Beyond Bridal Registry Service

They say 2014 is a lucky year for couples that are getting hitched this year. It got even luckier as Rustan’s Weddings Registry, in partner with United Airlines and Marriot Hotel, is offering a treat for brides-to-be: A trip to stunning and sunny Guam, with the added bonus of traveling in business class. Ride with style, soak up the sun and get to take your special someone to the lovely beaches and soaring waves of this majestic island.

With all the hustle and bustle that goes into preparing any wedding, it is hard to keep track of all the details that comes after. Spearheaded by the Rustan’s Department Store, the Weddings and Beyond Registry is a top-notch registry in the Philippines that is sought out by many, a service that eases the burden on brides in arranging and coordinating gifts, and even bridal showers — an easy antiseptic for bridezillas. With superior organization, this registry will do it all for the client with minimum effort on her part. Free delivery service and specialized gift-wrapping are also available, which relieves the couple of any inconvenience in collecting presents. This service also aids the guests in finding items that the couple will sincerely appreciate, offers a catalog for them to choose from and gives special discounts when they choose to buy from Rustan’s.

Have a smooth-sailing wedding by getting listed with Rustan’s Weddings & Beyond Bridal Registry, and hope that the positive 2014 juju garners enough luck to get you flying to Guam for the lovely bridal retreat you deserve, at no additional cost.

How to join Every couple who registers between September 30, 2013 - January 30, 2014 at Rustan's Weddings and Beyond will be entitled to one (1) Raffle Entry to win a trip for two to Guam. The winner will be treated to Business Class tickets on United Airlines and a stay at Marriott. The Grand Raffle Draw will be held at Rustan's Department Store Makati on February 12, 2014 at 4pm. See in store promo posters for details.

Per DTI-NCR Permit No. 8323. Series of 2013.