MEGAの August 2016 の目次

JASON MAGBANUA Jason is known as the wedding film game-changer. Not content to draw simply from his own life experiences, he delves deep with his clients, piecing together a story and infusing it with vivid imagery and soaring music befitting epic love affairs. The results are one-of-a-kind films that are as expansive in scope and intimate in depth as the relationships that inspired them. This is why so many couples dream of working with him, in order for their wedding to be a genuine celebration of life and love. Some say he’s a magician, some a genius. Perhaps he’s both. OWEN SARMIENTO Many artists can create a pretty face, but few have the true artistry of the greats. Owen Sarmiento is one of the latter, a soft-spoken man who is…

BVLGARI The Bvlgari snake will always be a sign of class, luxury and sly seduction. This season, the Serpenti collection focuses on the hypnotizing eyes of the serpent with exciting new shapes and forms. Complete with rings, bracelets and necklaces, the collection glorifies the uniquely shaped gems that become the eyes of the serpent. No single serpent head is the same making each piece a unique piece of art. In the same collection, the Serpenti head appears as a pendant for the first time. The versatility, boldness and elegance of these pieces are not just a fashion statement but classic pieces of art that will last a lifetime. CARTIER Cartier has time and again created pieces that can last a lifetime. From the Cartier animals to the now iconic Love…

THE LIST: 1 Black fine-knitted sweater by GUCCI. 2 Pink printed halter jumpsuit (P2995) by ZARA. 3 Gold and ivory hexagonal bracelet by TORY BURCH. 4 Yellow tweed A-line skirt by CARVEN. 5 Black flare-heeled platform sandal (2495) by CHARLES & KEITH. 6 Pink grapefruit crossbody bag by KATE SPADE. 7 Black pointed-toe leather mule by JIMMY CHOO. 8 Black fringed leather clutch (P1995) by MANGO. 9 Yellow ribbed long-sleeved shirt (P699) by H&M. 10 Statement necklace with resin floral arrangement crystal necklace (P1795) by MANGO. 11 Pink printed silk shirt by GUCCI STYLE TIP Play up the quirk of this playful palette with multi-colored prints and unconventional accessories…

AGAINST THE GRAIN We’ve witnessed the shifts, from the blink-and-you’ll-miss-them trends to the industry’s steep turn for the double tap-worthy. In a world where change is the new currency, we long for constants—ones that will unquestionably stand the test of time, tear and trend—to keep us grounded. Carbon, Joanna Preysler’s passion project of a boutique, may just be the sartorial anchor our hearts and closets have been looking for. Wedged between Greenbelt 3’s string of emporiums, Carbon—from the inspiration that keeps the label fueled down to the fruits of its collaborations with local creatives—is rooted in all urban everything. Despite the brand’s 14-year tenure, the label has remained true to the clean, uncontrived DNA woven through its every aspect. Steering clear of fashion’s come-and-goers (“Saying that something is an ‘it’…

As Jacqueline Dizon, seated comfortably across the piano in their charming family home, begins telling us about how she’s kept busy during her gap year—helping out with their family business, attending MEGA’s Pinoy Pride Ball, writing for an up-and-coming lifestyle website, interning for fashion designer Ivarluski Aseron and raising a puppy who commands her undivided attention—we begin to realize that her supposed academic break hasn’t been much of a break at all, but a chance to get experience under her belt, earn her keep and get her hands dirty. Have we mentioned she’s only fresh out of high school? “2016 has probably been the most exciting year so far because of all the opportunities I have been offered,” shares Jacqueline, candidly listing our photo shoot as one of the highlights…

SINCE BEING MARRIED WHAT ARE THE THINGS THAT STAYED THE SAME AND WHAT HAS CHANGED? Everything felt the same actually. The only difference is that now I can use Maxwell as a last name when making reservations, and it’s much less easier to misspell than Kienle. I still need to get used to having a new second last name. WHAT MAKES YOU SMILE? Thinking back at my wedding. WHAT IS THE MOST DEFINING MOMENT OF YOUR LIFE THUS FAR? My most defining moment was when I made the decision to move back to Manila in 2012, and start working for the family business, Philux. I finally knew what I wanted, and where I saw myself heading. My husband and I started seeing each other a few months later. Everything changed…

Many women have been dreaming about their wedding day since they were little, from the perfect dress down to their future child’s name. But modern times have spawned modern women—smart, stylish and capable of making their own decisions, including DIY-ing their own wedding. So in our first bridal issue, we’d like to help cater to these needs while keeping your cool. In Heatlist, you’ll find a list of books and movies that should help with pre-wedding jitters while People introduces you to hot-new go-to’s for your big day. We’ll also make before and after parties, and honeymooning a breeze. Quick! Turn to Food and Travel. Lastly, Home lists down lust-worthy pieces from Hermès home universe you might want to add to your gift registry. This and more in our August…

“THE BEST PART ABOUT THIS JOB IS THAT I GET TO MEET DIFFERENT TYPES OF PEOPLE AND LEARN SO MUCH” Multi-talented performer Rachel Alejandro is marking 27 years in show business this year. Invigorated by her new endeavors, the seasoned singer-actress feels like she’s a newbie spreading her wings. Rachel tell us, “I would like to call this stage in my career as a renaissance. I’ve never done so many things in my life before—and all at the same time!” For the past several years, it seemed that Rachel had stepped out of the limelight and was being called “Chef” Rachel because of her role in the very successful diet food delivery service The Sexy Chef. “Actually, it’s my sister Barni (Alejandro-Rennebeck) who is a certified chef. I handle the…

THE LOOK Whether for your big day or everyday affairs, looking your best is imperative. Thus, we turn to the best in beauty to accentuate our eyes, give our lids a wash of shimmer, sculpt our cheeks and give our lips a prick of or full-on color. Check out NARS Fall 2016 Color Collection, which features a refined fall palette, signature colors and state-of-the-art textures to update your vanity. BATH TIME Indulge in bath essentials rich in ingredients that hydrate, soothe and leave every inch of you smelling really good. For hair that needs intensive care, try BABARIA Reparative Shampoo Jojoba and Argan Oils (P295). Lastly, lather up in BABARIA Sweet Almond Oil Bath gel (P245) to make sure skin is moisturized and nourished even after you step out of…

SMELLS RIGHT Treat your tresses right with ingredients such as antioxidant-rich Argan oil found in products such as STYLE AROMATHERAPY Ancient Secrets Moroccan Argan Shampoo (P495/400 ml), Conditioner (P495/400 ml) and Hair Mask (P795/500 ml). TO DYE FOR Ensure that your brand new dye job lasts with vibrancy, luminosity and health intact. A specialized haircare range such as WELLA LuxeOil is a must. It includes Keratin Protect Shampoo (P808), Keratin Restore Mask (P1119) and Reconstructive Elixir (P1499); all contain rich almond, jojoba and Argan oils to protect your hair from within. DYNAMIC DUO When your hair needs some major TLC get yourself a KÉRASTASE Fusio Dose (price available upon request). The potent treatment combines a Concentrate and a Booster. The former treats your hair’s primary issue, which could be damage…

CRYSTAL KISS From shimmery, translucent gloss to saturated color with a plastic-like shine, dazzling, look-at-me lips is a big trend this season. Keep the focus on your mouth by lining your lips with a matching lip liner (use a nude shade if you’re using clear gloss) so your lacquer lasts longer. Tip: tackier textured products last longer than thinner, watery finishes. IN THE CLEAR A long-lasting clear lip gloss can be one of the most versatile products in your makeup kit PLASTIC DREAM Glossy skin is disarmingly modern, but a bit of warning though—wearing gloss or even shimmer all over your face works only if you have completely flawless, pore-less skin. If you’re not a 16-year-old supermodel or a K-Pop megastar, then perhaps you are better off keeping the gloss…

“HOODED EYES ARE SOME OF THE FIRST MANIFESTATIONS OF COLLAGEN LOSS” A quick Google search on "hooded lids” or "Asian lids” rings up countless makeup tutorials on how to create the illusion of dimension and hide what many consider an aesthetic problem. Even YouTube sensation-turned-business mogul Michelle Phan has advocated the use of eyelid tape (and glue) to create a double-lid or the appearance of a lid crease. These products originally from Japan (they really do think of everything there) are now going viral. AGE OLD Like all things that come with age, eyelids tend to droop at a certain age—25 to be exact. Dr. Aivee Teo of the Aivee Institute explains it best saying, "Hooded eyes are some of the first manifestations of collagen loss. Depending on the person’s…

LAY ME DOWN Layers and tiers add dimension to a wedding piece, not to mention unadulterated drama TALE OF THE DRESS Not a fan of embellishments? Let the fabric do the talking in textured iterations FROM PAST TO PRESENT Opt for a dainty yet feminine look with ruched Victorian necklines NEVER LOOK BACK Backless details add sensual appeal to a rather formal look MUSINGS OF THE HEART The classic sweetheart cut is perfect for accentuating your décolletage ALL THAT SHINE From pearls to crystals, fully embellished pieces are classic bridal looks INTO THE FLOW Turn heads with long trains or an addition of a cape…

DARK ROMANCE Black lace and flared trousers pairing sound like a modern fairytale to us…

Welcome to our first bridal-inspired issue. It’s been a long-time dream of ours to create a special edition that is centered on one of the most fashionable events a woman could have—that of her wedding day. It is a fact that brides today are truly fortunate because of the abundance of choices available. Gone are the days when they were constricted to following certain rules and traditions. For our first installment, we imagined a modern bride open to trying out new things, embracing tradition and new ideas not only when it comes to picking out a dress, but with planning the big event, too. While most women go to a designer to carry out their vision, there is also a growing number of ladies who would rather buy off the…

Packing unquestionable talent, pixie-like beauty and charm in spades, it seems Jodi Sta. Maria has just the right formula a celebrity needs to win the hearts of the Filipino people. And this is exactly what the actress has done time and time again, from her first top-billing role as the young and tomboyish Georgina to her relatable act as the sweet and ambitious Maya to her most recent role in the Jadaone-directed film The Achy Breaky Hearts as a comedic and romantically challenged thirty-something. A true testament to the chameleonic history she has built over the years, Jodi Sta. Maria slipped into a fresh persona against the greenery of our location the moment photographer Shaira Luna sent her camera flashing. Easily exuding elegance and maintaining a gentle smile even with…

HANNAH KONG MAKES HER DESIGN DEBUT An ode to her connection with the city of love, Hannah Kong’s debut collection marks the 29-year-old designer’s entry into the Philippine market. Joining the ranks of the country’s top couturiers, Hannah Kong learned the art of Lunéville embroidery at the Ecole Lesage Paris. Years of meticulous study have led up to her decidedly romantic 15-piece collection of broderie d’art occasion wear, most of which involved hundreds of hours of production. "My show is very French,” shares the designer, who named her floor-grazing numbers after teachers, clients and her favorite Parisian names. "[It has] the feel of an afternoon stroll in the gardens of Versailles.” F&C X COLEEN GARCIA Family-owned jewelry brand F&C joins forces with multi-hyphenate Coleen Garcia to capture the spirit of…

THE LIST: 1 Blush embroidered dress (P21400) by ALICE MCCALL AT SHOP LCP. 2 Gold hammered teardrop earrings by ANNE KLEIN. 3 Gold open-ball ring by KENNETH COLE. 4 Tan embroidered bag with tassels (P2595) by ZARA. 5 Black glass stone earrings by ALDO. 6 Brown suede and leather boot by JIMMY CHOO. 7 Yellowf faux snakeskin-printed sandal (P2995) by MANGO. 8 Brown leather shoulder bag by MICHAEL KORS. 9 Black frilled skirt (P695) by STRADIVARIUS. 10 Multi-colored embroidered jacket (P5990) by ZARA. 11 Multi-colored embroidered bralette by TOPSHOP STYLE TIP Take print on print to the next level by doubling (or tripling!) up on embroidered finery…

Yang Bautista understands the trying art of compromise, but perhaps that’s only to be expected of a woman who crafts bridalwear. After all, give and take is one of the masts that props up successful marriages; it only seems right that the same logic apply to a beautiful wedding gown. Bringing together inverses in her bridal and ready-to-wear collections, Yang’s designs construct a common ground between the modern and the classic, the ladylike and the daring. “I love putting details at the back to add an element of surprise,” shares Yang, who proudly learned the ropes of fashion design at both the Fashion Institute of the Philippines and Slims Fashion and Arts School. “It’s my interpretation of what you see is not always what it seems—through clothing.” This much is…

“[DESIGN] MAKES ME CURIOUS AND INSPIRED ME TO WANT TO CREATE AND EXPERIMENT” The Kienle name has been synonymous to exceptional design and high quality standard in the field of interiors and furniture since the 80s through their family business Philux. Today, together with sister Stephanie, Jessica Kienle Maxwell now helms the business and continues the success of the brand with passion and dedication—all with the firm intent to take it into the now and of course, the future. For Jessica, interiors have always been a big passion for her. “I remember going to the factory with my dad since I was a little girl and visiting the showrooms with my mom. I grew up in this industry, and I quickly learned to appreciate and love [it] over the years,”…

Whether or not you are personally invested in an athletic sport or are even remotely into fitness, you cannot deny the fact that for an interval of four years, you look forward to the ultimate display of brawn, skill and the indefatigable human spirit through the Olympic Games. From its mythological origins (of gods and goddesses outperforming each other, no less) to its more contemporary incarnations, the convergence of athletes from all corners of the world has long fascinated us. But apart from the awe-inspiring dedication, pulsating passion and an unerring sense of duty, there lies a quiet but all important figure that is nestled at the core of the Olympic Games—time. No medal, podium finish or records would be achieved if it were not for the element of competition…

FILM MAMMA MIA! A musical about a wedding set in the breathtaking Greek isles and rekindling ties with family is always a good idea. Besides, you know you’ll enjoy singing to Mamma Mia, Dancing Queen and other oldies but goodies especially when you see this with mom. RUNAWAY BRIDE While we’d never wish anyone to turn up at the altar with no bride or groom, Runaway Bride is an old favorite that assures brides-to-be and wishful brides that there is somebody for everybody. BRIDE WARS Getting married the same time as your friends? Don’t let bridezilla get in the way of your friendship and take notes from Bride Wars, which stars Anne Hathaway and Kate Hudson. Make it a brides night in and invite your best girl friends over. FATHER…

“I AM INSPIRED BY MANY THINGS...MY ENVIRONMENT, MEMORIES & ALL THE PLACES I HAVE VISITED” —GIDEON HERMOSA STYLE UPGRADE There is a certain charm whenever the Events Studio, which offers styling, floral design and props fabrication, styles a wedding. From classic romantic to Avatar themed weddings, Gideon Hermosa studies the concept and delivers above and beyond. Hermosa is one of the younger events stylists in the industry, but has racked up a considerable experience. He tries to never repeat a concept which is rather a challenge in the world of wedding styling. No doubt, Hermosa is young, determined and rising to the top of his career every painstaking detail ahead. For more information visit gideonhermosa.com . “TE AMO, HAS SCOURED PRIME HORTICULTURAL COUNTRIES TO BRING TO US…

This month, we’re indulging ourselves in one of the more extravagant themes of the year: bridal + luxury. After all, a wedding is one of those events where you have the proverbial license to go all out with your fantasies. Why is a wedding so important to a woman’s life? To be clear, it’s not the most significant event, but it is right up there. Publicly declaring, and vowing to love and commit to someone is no small feat. And while not all marriages are forever, those wedding photos certainly are. So you better look damn good. Hence, our stories this month are full of tips on how to look your best for a wedding, whether you’re the bride or a well-wisher, getting hitched in the city or in an…

POSH SPICE The certified organic brand from London’s Covent Garden is now here and we adore their line of essential oils. Mix NEAL’S YARD Base Massage Oil (P850/100 ml), which contains rich almond and sunflower oils, with Essential Oils in relaxing Frankincense (P1850/10 ml), cleansing Niaouli (P750/10 ml) or balancing Cedarwood (P850/10 ml). BODY TALK Show your body more love by treating it with daily protection such as CÉLETEQUE Brightening Radiance Body Cream (P270/200 ml), which lightens while safeguarding it from the sun. And if you’ve already done the damage, nurse it back to health with Sun Care Skin Relief After-Sun Gel (P290/200 ml), which contains soothing wheat and aloe vera CLEAR THE WAY Skincare expert Dr. Howard Murad offers two solutions for two big body problems: stretch marks and…

“THE BODY GOES THROUGH AN ALL IMPORTANT PHASE OF REPAIR AND FINE-TUNING DURING SLEEP” In an era where self-worth is determined by a calendar chockfull of commitments, social appearances and more, it is only logical that sleep becomes the most expendable activity. In the daily hustle, sleep is the compromise. The old adage of having to sleep eight hours a day has become nothing short of a myth. In fact, people pride themselves on going on a derivative amount of sleep, as if hours of slumber are inversely proportional to productivity. But in an effort to keep up with work, hustle for the money and balance the daily demands of modern living, what are we really sacrificing? TECH OVER A severe reality check is in order: the landscape of modern…

There isn’t a more clichéd and overworked intangible concept that has plagued the world over for many, many centuries than the four-lettered, monosyllabic word, love. This month, we dive right into the middle of romantic manifestations as we explore every nook and cranny of weddings, the love that stems from therein and of course, the fashion that it inspires. We begin with the romance of Jodi Sta. Maria. Bathed in sparkling diamonds and swathed in tear-inducing frothy gowns, the mother and actress talks to us about love in many forms and why she is at the end of the day still a staunch champion of a love that endures. Flip through our fashion pages where we strike a balance between two kinds of love—a fiery, impassioned Outlaw and the other,…

DIGITAL MEDIA Love them both so much! Let’s claim it! Back to back Miss Universe and another crown for Miss International!—ALBERT VARGAS on MEGA July 2016 cover via Slay it, queens! What a gorgeous concept for the girls!—WENDY IBARRA on MEGA July 2016 cover via He’s so in demand right now! I admire him!—KIARA ARLO on MEGA Man July 2016 cover via Uno Emilio is so hot! Will surely grab a copy of this cover! —MONICA CELO on MEGA Man July 2016 cover via MEGA ON DIGITAL For those living abroad or who don’t have time to go to newsstands, MEGA is now online. Download MAGZTER and ZINIO now WANT TO WIN MORE PRIZES? GOT SOMETHING TO SAY QUICK? Connect with us through Facebook.com/megamagazine or follow us on Twitter.com/mega_magazine; Instagram:…

Love is love. We don’t choose whom or what we fall in love with. And as far as we know, it is subjective. In this issue, we celebrate all kinds of love and forms of passion as we shift your attention to the best gowns, bijoux, heels and styles for the season. Best Buys pulls out all the stops in color, cut and texture with pink and yellow colorways, sexy shoulder-baring pieces and luxurious embroidery, while Get Ready to Wear goes dainty with pastels and neutrals perfect for weddings guests. In New Kids On the Block, Yang Bautista affirms how balancing creativity with the needs of her customers is key to design success. We also pay homage to local couture with Pinoy Pride awardee Ezra Santos and his intricate and…

THE LIST: 1 Black bar earrings by KATE SPADE. 2 Multi-colored metallic shoulder bag by JIMMY CHOO. 3 Emerald printed straight-legged trousers by GUCCI. 4 Navy suede lace-up sandal by ALDO. 5 Black leather ankle strap pump by VALENTINO. 6 Rose square-framed sunglasses (P399) by SUNNIES STUDIOS. 7 White mini messenger bag (P895) by STRADIVARIUS. 8 Black lightweight scarf by GIVENCHY. 9 Ecru asymmetrical top (P1995) by ZARA. 10 Multi-chain rhinestone necklace by TOPSHOP. 11 Camel boat-neck sweater by RALPH LAUREN STYLE TIP Stay on trend without breaking the bank by transforming a classic boat neck into a relaxed asymmetrical top…

FIRST BLUSH 20s Pure and ladylike, blush is the color of light and feminine fare THE LIST: 1 Embellished drop earrings by ALDO. 2 White sunglasses by KATE SPADE. 3 Blush cotton jacket by MANGO. 4 Blush sweetheart cut full-length dress by MANGO. 5 Blush knitted sweater by RIVER ISLAND. 6 Blush flounce top by RIVER ISLAND. 7 Embellished shoulder bag by ALDO. 8 White skirt by UNIQLO. 9 White leather sandal by PEDRO STYLE TIP Throw in pieces in white for a clean sartorial look GO FRESH 30s Go back to nature with light shades of green THE LIST: 1 Bejeweled drop earrings by IPPOLITA AT RUSTANS. 2 Blue and gold bangle by ALEXIS BITTAR AT RUSTANS. 3 Light green flounced top by RIVER ISLAND. 4 Seafoam green…

Philippine fashion owes much to Ezra Santos who, since moving to Dubai, has successfully held the reins of one of the most notable fashion houses in the UAE, a brand which brings vibrancy back into the business of couture in a time when fast fashion reigns—and it is this kind of success that brings Ezra into the limelight of this year’s MEGA Pinoy Pride Ball. As one of the 16 outstanding global Filipinos recognized that evening, Ezra showcased a five-piece collection that bewildered and excited the audience. Watching an Ezra show is to suspend disbelief—yet the reason why his shows and collections have earned such a wide audience is because of the understanding of the female form at its core. Here was a fantasy world—with the most intricate details and…

WHAT IS YOUR EARLIEST FASHION MEMORY? I remember going into my mom’s closet and trying different dresses and different outfits. She would always help me dress for a party I was going to. I still go into my mom’s closet and borrow stuff from her, she’s got amazing taste. WHAT IS YOUR OPINION ON TODAY’S FASHION? I think designers are really pushing the boundaries. One exhibit that I visited recently and enjoyed very much was the Manus x Machina: Fashion in an Age of Technology at the MET. It explores how fashion designers are reconciling the handmade and the machine-made in the creation of haute couture and avant-garde ready-to-wear. It was one of the most beautiful and most interesting exhibits I have ever been to. It really shows where fashion…

1932—A LEGACY BEGINS A cornerstone of sports measurement history, Omega was entrusted the privilege and responsibility to keep across all events at the Olympic Games 1948—THE LONDON EYE One of the greatest revolutions in sports timekeeping, the first photofinish camera, was unveiled at the London Olympic Games 1960—AT A TOUCH Following a controversial disagreement at the 100m freestyle event of the 1960 Olympic Games in Rome, Omega developed automatic touchpads that allowed athletes to stop time with their own hands 1984—NO MORE FALSE START Omega made more strides in timekeeping with the first false start detection device., further detecting the slightest false start during competitions 2012—THREE FOR THREE Evolving to become a highly sophisticated system, Omega pushed even more with new pieces of futuristic equipment—new starting blocks for the innovative…

ROSA CLARÁ Almost 20 years ago, Rosa Clará entered the bridal market presenting a ready-to-wear business model that changed the bridal industry. Partnering with iconic designers such as Christian Lacroix, Karl Lagerfeld and Zuhair Murad, and then selling their bridal collections in one store, the brand quickly became a go-to for brides around the world. Today, Rosa Clará has 35,000 branches in 86 countries and does not only sell bridal pieces at affordable prices, but also includes cocktail collections, as well as accessories and even pieces for children attending their first communion. Visit the Rosa Clará boutique in Asia Tower III at the Residences at Greenbelt to make an appointment. VELUZ Veluz in the Philippine bridal industry is synonymous to immaculate fit and well, just plain beautiful. Since 1998, the…

DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER You can never go wrong with a simple yet breathtaking diamong choker THE LIST: 1 Diamond choker by PRIVATE COLLECTION at RUSTAN’S SILVER VAULT. 2 Diamond encrusted Eden bangle by DAMIANI at RUSTAN’S SILVER VAULT. 3 Diamond bracelet by PRIVATE COLLECTION at RUSTAN’S SILVER VAULT. 4 White diamond circle earrings by ROBERTO COIN at RUSTAN’S SILVER VAULT. 5 Double stranded pearl necklace by AC+632. 6 Masskara teardrop earrings by JOANIQUE at CURA V. 7 White gold Brills ring by PRIVATE COLLECTION at RUSTAN’S SILVER VAULT. 8 White gold necklace with Ruban pendant by DAMIANI at RUSTAN’S SILVER VAULT. 9 Flower ring by CENTO at RUSTAN’S SILVER VAULT…

The massive golden gate of Canton Road will definitely get your attention. And no, we’re not talking about the famous street in Hong Kong. This one is a hidden treasure for food enthusiasts, located at the newly developed Shangri-la at the Fort. Upon entering the restaurant, the welcome drink made from fresh dates, the luminous chandeliers, the exquisite golden metal screens with modern oriental pattern take your senses to a higher level; an imagination of a Gatsby Celebration brought to life. The purple and celadon combination of key furniture gives a certain relaxation and prestigious elegance, thus people can take pleasure in gathering in such a glamorous yet relaxed dining atmosphere. Modern Cantonese cuisine is what Canton Road is all about: a mouthwatering assortment of regional specialties, signature roast barbeque…

THIS KISS Bridal makeup requires pretty colors with tenacious staying power. Enter CLINIQUE Kiss The Bride Collection, which includes Long Last Soft Shine Lipsticks (P1100) in four romantic shades and the Forevermore Compact Pressed Powder (P2500), a silver keepsake compact that gives up to eight hours of silky wear. AT LAST MAKE UP FOR EVER Aqua XL Eye Pencil (P1750) is budge- and waterproof with 20 shades to choose from. For weddings, we like the more tonal shades such as 1-36 Iridescent Khaki, D-62 Diamond Brown and S-50 Satiny Taupe for more natural definition. SWEET THING A pop of color and a hint of warmth on your cheeks go a long way. BYS Contour Trio (P449) contains a blush, highlighter and bronzer with a discreet amount of shimmer. Buff lightly…

GRAY MATTER "For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved gray, putty-like shades. DEBORAH LIPPMANN Gel Lab Pro in Dirty Little Secret (P925), a greige color with holographic shimmer is right up my alley.”—Trina Epilepsia Boutain, Beauty and Features Editor NUDE ATTITUDE "There are several kinds of nudes to choose from, but I like the more unorthodox ones, such as SALLY HANSEN Miracle Gel in 129 Per-Suede (P495), which has a warm red tone that is still pretty, but very different.” —Cessi Treñas, Fashion Assistant PALE POWER "I tend to love darker shades, but OPI Nail Lacquer in Pale to the Chief (P645) is a warm, creamy shade that looks good on both my fingers and toes. The formula is also top-notch, lasting for over a week without chipping!”—Sarah…

In 2009, Janna Simpao was just about to tie the knot but she was faced with a bit of a problem. The bride-to-be knew exactly what she wanted for her wedding but she did not know who she should hire to execute her vision. Janna found most of her pegs and inspiration from international online publications and after her big day, she still found herself on an extended wedding high. “I would share ideas with my husband Ian that I wish I could have added to our wedding. He then encouraged me to start a blog and share my thoughts with other brides.” She thought to herself, “How wonderful it would be if we had a local website focused on style and tastefulness?” BrideandBreakfast.com was then born and after…

WHILE MINIMALIST AESTHETICS DOMINATE THE RUNWAY, DRAMA ALWAYS TRICKLES BACK IN THE FORM OF DEEP TONES AND WELL-DEFINED STROKES . The contrast reveals a different side of chic: audacious yet clean and absolutely sophisticated. Model Franceska Toro daringly wears the trend with this selection from . P225 SWEPT AWAY Balance depth and delicacy by means of EB ADVANCE BLUSH DUO . This comes with a brown base tone for contours and a rosy tinge of pink as a top shade. Together, they give you the subtle emphasis you need to perfect this look. P185 LADY IS A VAMP Paint on EB ADVANCE LIQUID LIPSTICK in RICH VINO for a hypnotically dark pout. Coming from the makeup line’s newest lippie collection, it starts off as a smooth-gliding formula that settles into…

“MODERN SCIENCE HAS JUST FOUND A WAY TO GIVE US THE FACE AND BODY SHAPE WE WANT” Finding time to get in shape has become harder and harder for us women, what with our do-it-all, have-it-all attitude. Besides, between the bed and the gym, many of us would rather clock in a few more hours of rest. But that doesn’t mean you should give up on exercise completely. Modern science has just found a way to give us the face and body shape we want without having to put in an extra two hours at spin class or Pilates. This means more time for you, and the people and activities you love. How? V Contour, the current hot-button topic among beauty and fitness junkies, is a procedure that’s used to…

EVER AFTER Counter a classic cut with statement-making back details “I BELIEVE IN HAPPY ENDINGS” THE FUTURE AWAITS Sleeve or shoulder details add extra feminine flair to otherwise simple pieces “I THINK LOVE IS STILL WORTH TAKING A RISK FOR” STILL DREAMING Embellished necklines call for pared-down accessories “IF WE DON’T SEE OUR VALUE FIRST THEN WE WILL ALWAYS BE CHOOSING PEOPLE WHO WON’T SEE IT EITHER” LOVED & ADORNED Keep a pristine ensemble interesting by combining yellow and white gold accessories THE WEDDING MARCH Opt for a subtle color flush with shoes in muted pastels “IN LOVING WE NEVER REALLY LOSE—WE LEARN” HER OWN WOMAN Do away with conventions and dare to sport a stark white blazer-and-trouser combination LOOKING AHEAD A flattering tea-length cut can prevent a voluminous skirt…