Runway2Reality

Brent Chua - Model in Focus

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 13:07:00 +0000

The "Asian Male Super Model," He conquered the runways of Asia and Europe, Male Model of the Year at the Singapore Fashion Awards. That's how impressive Brent Chua's CV at a young age in his mid twenties and is currently represented by Ford Models New York. He graced the cover and campaigns of Benetton, Levi's, Motorola, TIGI Bedhead, Bang and Olufsen, and more.

Runway2Reality interviews Brent Chua, fashion model and vintage clothes lover. Brent shares his secret on where to shop in NYC, the challenges facing models and how to make it big by being yourself.

Name: Brent Chua

Background: Family/Occupation/Industry/Company:
Chinese-Filipino. Model, currently represented by Ford Models New York

Describe your Personal Style, Inspiration and Fashion Philosophy.
I like to keep it simple, mixing it up with a few unique elements. I would say I'm inspired by the diversity of everyday people in NYC.

They say you're the "Asian Male Super Model." What can you say about it? How did you started? How long you've been modeling?
I am grateful to be called such things. But at the end of the day, I am just me. Maybe life has been good to me or maybe it was a stroke of luck. I've been in the game for 5 years. It all started when Rizal (a casting director) discovered me in a club.

How would you compare the modeling scene here in the Philippiness and abroad.
Obviously, every city has a different market for fashion. The Philippines is just yet starting to become more aware of international fashion and in turn adapting to it. Modeling abroad is a great deal, more difficult than in the Philippines. Because (in the Philippines) designers tend to cast models whom they are connected to somehow. Whereas abroad, fashion is ever changing. Therefore, models come and go constantly, like a revolving door. But if you have the patience, faith and maybe luck, then you can turn modeling into a lasting career.

Favorite fashion/modeling moment:
I cannot pick and choose specific moments in which were memorable for I consider every opportunity to be interesting.

What do you think are the challenges Filipino models are facing in the industry?
I suppose the most significant challenge that Filipino models face is fitting into an ethnic category. Some Filipinos look Hispanic whereas others look more Oriental. Fashion tends to categorize models by ethnicity and that can be seen as a barrier for Filipino models.

Advice for aspiring professional models.
Despite the difficulties making it in the industry, always be the best you can be and never forget those who have always stood by you.

What is your favorite brand, label, shop?
I prefer vintage and secondhand clothes over labels and brands. There are numerous vintage shops in NYC, a popular one being Beacon's Closet in Willamsburg, Brooklyn.

What is the best fashion and or modeling advice you ever received?
"Be yourself."

What is you biggest splurge or the most expensive item you ever bought?
I don't really 'splurge'. On many occasions, I'm given free clothes.

What advice can you give when it comes to personal style/fashion?
When it comes to personal style, it's most important to be comfortable in what you're wearing as opposed to impressing others. And in order to be comfortable in what you're wearing, you have to first be comfortable in your own skin. From there on, you can pull anything off.

Photos courtesy of Mr. Brent Chua.

Malaysian International Fashion Week 2009

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:03:00 +0000

Malaysia International Fashion Week (M-IFW) returns with its seventh installment this November 4 to 8 at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur. A dazzling collaboration between M-IFW'09 and Maxis, Malaysia's leading mobile services provider.

Organized by M-IFA, This highly anticipated convergence between fashion and technology will surely blow you away. Stay tuned for more updates strait from KL.

Photography by © Francis Tuason for Runway2Reality

Payday weekend for Fashion Palooza: Fitness and Style Expo

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 10:33:00 +0000

Color Coding Productions, together with The Australian College of Hair Design and Beauty, La Salle College International (School of Fashion Design) and Fitness First, and in partnership with Philippine Daily Inquirer, Channel V Philippines, Global Pinoy Cinema (Global Destiny Cable), Action and Fitness Magazine, OFFCAM Magazine, CIRCUIT Magazine, StyleBible.PH, Italianni’s, Astring-O-sol, Runway2Reality.com, World Balance, SUPERADS, ICON Online Magazine, RJ Underground 105.9, and University Rock on NU107, present the most awaited and biggest fashion, fitness and wellness extravaganza of 2009 - Fashion Palooza: Fitness and Style Expo on Nov. 13 & 14 at the A. Venue Hall, Makati Avenue.

Enjoy endless shopping at the Bazaar as exhibitors get to promote and sell their products/ services and be known in their respective industries. Be enthralled by non-stop fashion shows where amateur and professional fashion entrepreneurs, make-up artists and models could showcase their products on the runway. Witness who among the top 10 models of “The Fashion Project: Ultimate Reality Modeling Competition” will win the title of the Ultimate Fashion Model. Be mesmerized by an awesome display of designer gowns, shoes and accessories at “Eksibisyon – Hall of Fashion,” a mini museum dedicated to today’s amateur and professional designers. Choose among a delectable array of food booths from the Metro’s top food concessionaires. Other events to take place are seminars/ workshops, raffles, contests, talent auditions, and many more exciting activities that would truly benefit all fashion, fitness and wellness entrepreneurs, practitioners, talents and artists.

So go ahead – shop, ramp, and dine at the trade and fashion capital of the metro, Fashion Palooza: Fitness and Style Expo!

For booth reservation, inquiries and more details, you can contact 09266461097 / 09175366832 or you can visit www.fashionpalooza.multiply.com.

Twinkle Ferraren | Philippine Fashion Week SS 2010

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 03:35:00 +0000

The astounding unity between some of the universe's largest bodies and the building blocks of life come into full clarity in Twinkle Ferraren's latest offering for Philippine Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2010.

Ferraren's newest collection is a tribute to life's most significant structures: stem cells. Using them as the basis of her designs, each piece features circular images in an amalgamation of colors, prints and patterns that are flowy and continuously regenerating.

Delicate embroidery, batik painting, fabric cutting and joining techniques result in interesting textures and images that contribute to the overall impact of the collection. Vivid colors are combined with neutral shades such as cream, ecru , off-white, gray, and olive green.

Employing the use of unique materials such as native pineapple fiber, bamboo linen, shifu and incorporating them in technology-infused fabrics including jersey, silk satin, micro fiber and toray, Ferraren's collection is a subtle call to develop a heightened awareness for the state of the environment, resulting in a fascinating repertoire of pieces that are both fashionably and environmentally relevant.

Photography by © Francis Tuason for Runway2Reality

Joel Escober | Philippine Fashion Week SS 2010

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 03:07:00 +0000

Joel Escober's newest collection is a magnificent and triumphant celebration of overcoming life's obstacles, underscoring the sacredness of an emotional and heady fight to the finish.

Reminiscent of the movie Cinderella Man, the collection relives the dynamic energy and glamour of a night in the boxing arena--from the chants, gasps and cheers of the passionate crowd to the intensity and sheer fighting spirit in side the ring. Sporty meets glam in a creative combination of tulle, jacquard, satin, silk chiffon, cotton, and jersey knits in gray, lavender, plum, powder blue, pistachio, sage green, pewter, ecru and ivory.

Each piece is intricately adorned with chains, ribbons, tulle, pearls and pieces of vintage jewelry, skillfully referencing three key inspirations: the silhouettes of the 1920s flapper era, the bias cutting techniques of the 1930s, and the influence and attitude of Italian fashion designer Elsa Schiaparelli in the 1940s.

To put it simply, Escober's collection compels one to revel in the glory of finding oneself and emerging victorious, despite various challenges that may crop up along the way.

Photography by © Francis Tuason for Runway2Reality

Eric Delos Santos | Philippine Fashion Week SS 2010

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 01:36:00 +0000

Aptly dubbed Women of St. Tropez, Delos Santos' new collection is a tribute to today's partyphile: the women who enjoys active social life and loves to exude a variety of different looks, whether gloriously sexy, classically girly, or elegantly sophisticated.

Made for the woman in her 20s to 30s, Women of St. Tropez has everything from intricate swimsuits to magnificent gowns. Delos Santos shows creative flair with the use of Spandex-dyed jerseys, rich brocades and masterful knits in beiges, aquas, magents, purples and reds. Each piece boldly makes use of various styling techniques and fashion elements that, when fused together, the result in pieces ablaze with fiery passion and strength of the modern woman.

All in all, this is a collection that celebrates aspects of womanhood in the 21st century. Women of St. Tropez pays homage to the fearless, fashion-forward female who confidently moves forward the times.

Photography by © Francis Tuason for Runway2Reality

Dolce & Gabbana Opening at ION Orchard

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 02:59:00 +0000

Just arrived from my recent trip to Singapore. Oct 30, I was able to catch the party as Dolce & Gabbana celebrated the official opening of its flagship boutique at ION Orchard Singapore. Took a few photos and left early, I need to catch the last train.

Style Report: Philippine Fashion Week SS10 Day 3

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 02:02:00 +0000

Day 3
Style sightings at SMX Convention Center, Philippine Fashion Week Spring Summer 2010.

Happy Andrada | Philippine Fashion Week SS 2010

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 09:37:00 +0000

"Disco takes center stage in my spring/summer collection! This is translated into variety of clothing styles, including ready to wear, cocktails, couture, debut wear, prom dresses and bridal gowns. The designs are edgy and versatile, showcasing the exhilarating experience of authentic disco and injecting splashes of personality in each piece." - Happy Andrada

Photography by © Martin Mauhay for Runway2Reality

Enrico Carado | Philippine Fashion Week SS 2010

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 09:06:00 +0000

"Dubbed Tears of Being, my collection is a tribute to the symbol of extreme emotions: teardrops. They are portrayed through random splotches of paint, amoving and graphic depiction of human catharsis at its peak. I made use of soft chiffon, illusion tulle, silk charmeuse, Duchess satin, infusing these with simple silhouettes and basic black and white." - Enrico Carado

Photography by © Martin Mauhay for Runway2Reality

Dita Sandico Ong | Philippine Fashion Week SS 2010

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 08:37:00 +0000

"Focusing on the texture and color of indigenous fabrics, my collection makes use of banana fiber to create black-and-white pieces that feature superb weaving reminiscent of Abel Iloco's works, the turquoise and purple designs that proudly showcase the ingenuity of pleating and scrunching techniques." - Dita Sandico Ong

Photography by © Martin Mauhay for Runway2Reality

Arnold Galang | Philippine Fashion Week SS 2010

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 07:35:00 +0000

"I can describe my collection in four words: fun, flirty, feminine and fresh. Inspired by 80s fashion, an era with a great love for stylish partying, I created modern dresses and separates with fancy twist, particularly focusing on shoulder and sleeve details. Each piece features loose yet defined shapes and is accessorized by studded belts and chunky accessories for that refreshingly quirky feel." - Arnold Galang

Photography by © Martin Mauhay for Runway2Reality

Yako Reyes | Philippine Fashion Week SS 2010

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 09:03:00 +0000

"Living in Hamilo is a collection inspired by SM Land's premier, sustainable leisure destination in Nasugbu. Referencing the island feel of Boracay, Camiguin, Palawan, and Pagudpud, my spring-summer offering is all about simple, no-frills comfort, with that effortless air of affluence. Composed of classic summer garments in light blues and greens and dry grays and whites, each piece is reminiscent of a sunny, breezy day on a beautiful yacht." - Yako Reyes

Photography by © Martin Mauhay for Runway2Reality

Ramon Favila | Philippine Fashion Week SS 2010

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 08:28:00 +0000

"Summer is always about bathing in the glorious heat of the sun, and my collection will bring some form of coolness to counteract this intense humidity. I created swimwear in basic white, funky prints and fun patterns, as well as body-hugging skinwear to flatter the silhouette, in a wide spectrum of colors-from neutrals and pastels to brighter and darker shades." - Ramon Favila

Photography by © Martin Mauhay for Runway2Reality

Dax Bayani | Philippine Fashion Week SS 2010

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 07:54:00 +0000

"Dedicated to my late father, this collection is all about the experience of loss, of mourning, of acceptance. I used materials like polyester canvass, cotton twill, laminated chiffon, corduroy, polyester spandex, cotton and alaskin, and combined these with earth tones. But standing out amongst these hues are dashes of bright colors, to symbolize hope and the process of picking up the pieces." - Dax Bayani

Photography by © Martin Mauhay for Runway2Reality

Catherine Cavilte | Philippine Fashion Week SS 2010

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 06:41:00 +0000

"I call my collection 'Humble Luxe City.' A juxtaposition of fluidity and structure, it combines the beauty of each element and molds them together as if it was the most natural thing in the world. The coming-together of polar opposites creates a stunning connection, the perfect epitome of yin and yang." - Catherine Cavilte

Photography by © Martin Mauhay for Runway2Reality

Arnel Zulieta | Philippine Fashion Week SS 2010

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 15:42:00 +0000

"Inspired by American actress, socialite, debutante and heiress Edie Sedgwick and short films by Andy Warhol in the 60s. My collection is a celebration of the different elements of design and art, seamlessly combined together to create pieces that are deceptively simple yet immensely relevant, making a powerful impact when worn." - Arnel Zulueta

Photography by © Martin Mauhay for Runway2Reality

Puey Quiñones | Philippine Fashion Week SS 2010

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 15:40:00 +0000

Style Report: Philippine Fashion Week SS10 Day 2

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 03:39:00 +0000

Day 2
Style sightings at SMX Convention Center, Philippine Fashion Week Spring Summer 2010.

Ronaldo Arnaldo | Philippine Fashion Week SS 2010

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 01:50:00 +0000

"Entitled 'Fluted Clam,' my latest collection is inspired by the undulating curves of the fluted clam achieved through various interpretations of bias cutting and slash and spread techniques. Colors range from the lightest hue of the pink shell to dark coral pinks to mauve with periwinkle blue to represent the sea. Materials used are satins, silks, heavy crepe and satinized cotton." - Ronaldo Arnaldo

Photography by © Francis Tuason for Runway2Reality

Rickie Abad | Philippine Fashion Week SS 2010

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:56:00 +0000

Roel Rosal | Philippine Fashion Week SS 2010

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:28:00 +0000

Raoul Ramirez | Philippine Fashion Week SS 2010

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 02:56:00 +0000

Pablo Cabahug | Philippine Fashion Week SS 2010

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 02:40:00 +0000

"My Spring-Summer collection is all about dressing up a modern woman for glamorous engagements. The silhouettes are very classic and the inspiration is the 50's look in cool summer colors. Clothes are closely fitted to the body, tailored yet feminine and sexy. Pin tucking and pleating provide texture to dresses crafted from crepe with lace and satin accents." - Pablo Cabahug

Photography by © Martin Mauhay for Runway2Reality

Maricar Kobayashi | Philippine Fashion Week SS 2010

dhonjason@gmail.com (Dhon Jason) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 02:28:00 +0000

"My collection for this season is full of feminine elements that reflect both her Japanese and Filipino heritage, offering women a variety of unique clothes for every occasion." - Maricar Kobayashi

Photography by © Martin Mauhay for Runway2Reality