STYLE AND IMAGE

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

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

(Photos by Paul Borromeo of Leadfoto Studios)

Style tips from Ella:

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

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

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

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

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