Clad in a leopard print bucket hat, yellow overalls, and sunglasses, Florian Trinidad (or “Flo”) walked in the room with swagger only a stylist could carry—well, that and a bulky suitcase. Watching her unpack the clothes was a fashion enthusiast’s dream; her collection of split colored tops, extremely long-sleeved denim jackets, and cut clothing were a refreshing breath of avant-garde in a society filled to the brim with basic wear.

Having styled for us in a previous #CalyxtaGirl shoot with Jess Connelly, we knew to expect her signature edgy nonchalance—the perfect fit for Issa Pressman’s label-free style and beauty, as well as Calyxta’s first ever cover shoot done predominantly in film by the talented Erwin Canlas. With inspiration deeply rooted in hip-hop, Flo’s fresh take on street style was the clear choice in our one-of-a-kind cover girl shoot. Read more on her style journey below!

What would you say is your signature style?
My style is heavily influenced by the music, magazines, and the people I grew up with. Hip-hop is a huge part of it, so you can definitely identify my style as very street and fun.

Where do you get your inspiration when styling?
Inspiration usually comes from a lot of social media scrolling, watching old movies, and checking out the latest trends in fashion shows. The Internet is a very powerful thing.

What do you believe is the best accessory?
Confidence! But if you want something material, then I’d say good shoes.

Is this the career you’ve always wanted to pursue? Why? Why not? 

The plan was to be a designer (and I’m still not crossing that out on my list of goals), but along the way, I realized that styling was more of my strong suit and can help me get funding for my sustainable brand one day.

Name your favorite projects so far.

● Project: Oxygen’s Coed Fashion Show

This was the first big fashion show I got to do with the brand. I love how they always give me and my team their full trust, not just with the outfits but with creative direction as well. Plus, I got to style Sporty and Rich’s Emily Oberg, one of the big names in the streetwear industry.

What is the best advice that you’ve received about styling?
Never hesitate to edit.

Other than styling, what are your other interests/hobbies?
Thrift shopping, watching Netflix, taking photos with my film cam,
collecting stuff from the 90’s, and cleaning anything and everything—I can
help you organize your closet like how Kim did it for Paris! Hahaha!

What do you do in your spare time?
If you don’t find me sleeping, I’m probably either organizing my stuff or
working on other projects. I’m a very chill workaholic—a Taurus.

How to Contact
a. Phone Number: (02) 5316042
b. Mobile Number: 0917 1342408
c. Email: trinidad.florian@gmail.com
d. Website: Still working on it, but you can find my works on my IG
portfolio – @flo.styledthis
e. Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @floriantrinidad

Name a better styling duo than Poy and Yzza of The Studio Grey—we’ll wait. Other than nailing outfits one shoot after the other, this pair always arrives on set with a mission. We always find ourselves battling on which outfit to go with since they’re always ready with more than just one option per layout. Normally, that’s a good thing. But in this case, it’s always a struggle to just pick one since we may or may not happen to just fall in love with everything they put together!

Get to know one of our favorite teams to work with and maybe pick up a thing or two when it comes to fashion styling!

How long have you been styling?

Poy: 2018 is my fifth year in the industry.

Yzza: Three years now!

What do you love most about your job?

Poy: Aside from the privilege of getting to meet a lot of creative people along the way, I also get to express my creative side when dressing up and putting up a concept for an editorial shoot.

Yzza: Besides meeting other creatives, it is the creative process and exercise. And really about being able to express thoughts, opinions, and emotions through its art.

What do you love most about styling and putting together outfit looks?

Poy: I get to play dress-up when styling girls and for the guys, especially the models, I get to make them wear the clothes that I don’t have the balls to do so.

Yzza: I really enjoy the creative process of it. In a way, it is a like a mental challenge to me—to come up with a look that  people haven’t seen yet elsewhere which they can feast their eyes on.

What would you say is your signature style?

Poy: It’s not really a signature but I guess I can call my style varied but clean? It’s always a mix of a lot of things. From formal to casual clothes like wearing a t-shirt with high-waist pants and sneakers topped with an oversized blazer, it’s always a mix but never a like a maximalist with a lot of craziness going on.

Yzza: I’ve always had the inclination to juxtaposing ever since; it’s where my eyes would trail to when looking at visual materials. There should be at least something surprising to it, something that shouldn’t be there—but it’s there and it’s working. My battle cry is ‘Never polished, always perfect.’ LOL!

Where do you get your inspiration when styling?

Poy: Most of my inspiration come from music videos of the artists that I adore. Lana del Rey, Troye Sivan, BORNS, and Marina and the Diamonds are few of the artists that amuse me when it comes to aesthetic. Also, a certain community on Tumblr.

Yzza: Absolutely anything and anywhere. To be honest, I find beauty and stories in the most mundane things

What do you believe is the best accessory?

Poy: I guess it’s a tie between a scent and a pair of sunglasses. You would always find an eyewear in any of my bags. I believe it can amp up a basic look as well as a clean scent.

Yzza: Stay with me when I say this: the best accessory you can wear is attitude. You can wear just white t-shirt and jeans and look like a million bucks when you walk as if strutting the runway while in it.

Is this the career you’ve always wanted to pursue? Why? Why not?

Poy: Not really. I used to be big on working in front of the camera, but the universe said “Hmm, I guess you’d work better behind it.” LOL.

Yzza: Early in college, I had my eyes on advertising. Later in there, I discovered Rachel Zoe and the magic there is in styling (and that you can actually make a living out of it!) As I graduated college, I wished I could start a career out of fashion styling but didn’t know how. Plus, with a mind of a fresh graduate who wanted to start saving on her own, I went from one corporate job to another before questioning why I didn’t go for this career from the very start. No regrets though, I still got to where I’ve always wanted to be. Wink!

Name three of your biggest projects so far.

Poy: It’s kind of hard to choose between the names and the projects but what comes to mind, I’ve worked with a TVC for Axe and I consider that a big project because that’s one of my firsts and it’s true that you can’t forget your first. Recently been working with campaigns for Alyssa Valdez, and Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach, Iris Mittenaere, and Demi Leigh Nel Peters.

Yzza: Gatorade’s Nothing Beats Gatorade 3.0 TVC and print ad for Alyssa Valdez. Dr. CRB print ad campaign for Pia Wurtzbach. Front Row print ad campaign for three Miss Universe queens: Pia Wurtzbach, Iris Mittenaere, and Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters.

What is the best advice that you’ve received about styling?

Poy: It’s funny I can’t remember anything, but my brother’s approval is important to me especially when I dress up for an event. I always dress-rehearse at home or send him a photo before really committing to it.

Yzza: This wasn’t given to me directly, but Piera Gelardi of Refinery29 once said: “If you’re afraid of ‘making mistakes’ you miss the point of style as an extension of self and of life!” Amen.

Other than styling, what are your other interests/hobbies?

Poy: Before the gram even started, my brother and cousin really like to take portraits so my closest in the family is big on photographs and I really like grooming as well. Skin care, hair products, etc. take a little space in my counter than they actually should.

Yzza: Do catching up on sleep and re-watching my favorite TV shows count?

What do you do in your spare time?

Poy: Aside from catching up on my favorite TV shows, I like to hit the beach, enjoy the salty water and just chill.

Yzza: I binge-watch Korean dramas and variety shows! That’s my guilty pleasure, really. LOL.

Contact Details:
Poy
Email: jericovillamonte@gmail.com
Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: Poy Villamonte 

Yzza
Mobile Number: +639178177870
Email: yzzahablado@gmail.com
Website: https://theyzzathablado.wordpress.com/
Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @theyzzahablado

Text by: Maan Fernandez

How did it all start for you? And when did it all start?

I started out with photography when I was in college. I was asked to cover school events and eventually making Look Books for our university’s merch. It all fell into place when I met Jullian Culas, who’s a really close friend of mine and a block mate back in college. We started out creating our portfolios for each other and the rest was history.

What do you love most about being a photographer?

What I love most about being a photographer is that you can translate ideas you can only see in your head into photographs. Also, I can get to constantly create.

Is this the career you’ve always wanted to pursue?

Actually, I’ve always wanted to be an art director and work for an advertising agency.

Name three projects you’re really proud of.

• ‘I am Different” – Penshoppe’s Anti-Bullying Campaign
• Oxygen’s Come Hang Out campaign featuring their newest brand ambassadors (Kiana Valenciano, Donny Pangilinan, and Mauri Loosli)
• My first magazine cover. It was MEGA Magazine October 2017 issue featuring Tanner Mata

The best professional advice on photography you can give?

Always find your light.

The best shooting advice that you have received?

“When in doubt, bounce (your light).”

What was your favorite layout from the shoot?

My favorite layout from this shoot was where we made Laura stand up on the sofa. Since she was wearing heels at that time, we thought it was going to rip out the couch!

What do you do in your spare time

During my free time, I make sure to create, shoot, and collaborate with other creatives.

Mobile Number: +639178306521

Website: http://erwincanlas.studio

Instagram: @erwincanlas

Text by: Maan Fernandez

If you’ve been following Calyxta ever since, Amanda Padilla would surely be a familiar face to you. One of Calyxta’s first Beauty Contributors, you’ve probably read a couple of her beauty articles and reviews on the site, or even watched her fun makeup tutorials for Calyxta TV! She has also been a go-to makeup artist for our #CalyxtaGirl shoots, and we’ve worked with her since 2015 for our April 2015 #CalyxtaGirl shoot with Miss World Philippines 2016 and Ms. Universe Philippines 2018, Catriona Gray; February 2017 with the ultimate fitspiration, Bubbles Paraiso; and our most recent one for March 2018 with Miss World Philippines 2017, Laura Lehmann!

Get to know our all-around beauty girl as she shares with us her beauty journey on how she pursued her passion into becoming a Professional Makeup Artist, what she loves most about her job, and the best advice she’s received when it comes to makeup!

What do you love most about makeup?

Makeup is such a powerful, uplifting tool! It can instantly make a person more confident, happier, and more appreciative of themselves.

Is this the career you’ve always wanted to pursue? Why? Why not?

No! I had no idea that you could actually make a career out of this until a few years after college.

Name three projects you’re really proud of:

• My first beauty editorial. It was with Mega Magazine. I was so happy with how the looks turned out and was proud to have my name attached to the work.
• A TV Commercial in Bangkok. I’ve always wanted to shoot there and this was definitely one for the books.
• The makeup of my sister on her wedding day.

Text by: Maan Fernandez

The young and talented half of Spotlight Creatives, Jeck is very easy to work with—both off and on the set. He gives a youthful and modern touch to his work, which has landed him (and his team) to cover our #CalyxtaGirl editorial videos for our big December anniversary last 2017 with Megan Young, as well as our February 2018 #CalyxtaGirl video with Carla Abellana. If you’ve seen our series of videos for the #CalyxtaLoveYourPet campaign where we collaborated with several beauty bloggers and their pets as a special way to celebrate cruelty-free beauty, Jeck was our guy for those cute snippets!

Continue reading to know more about Jeck, and maybe even learn a thing or two as he shares about the best filming advice he’s received, as well as his dream project!

1. How did it all start for you? And when did it all start?

On my 16th birthday, my aunt gave me a small digital camera and I started taking random snapshots until I fell in love with photography. By the time I was in college, I joined organizations and met people who gave me opportunities like coverage on events, photoshoots for pageants, film competitions, and many more which lead me to this career.

2. What do you love most about being a videographer?

I love the feeling of fulfillment when you see your work being published and presented to the public.

3. Name three of your biggest projects so far.

I can’t claim them as major projects, but these were the most memorable ones. First was when I directed a short film for a university contest. We all had fun and gave our best and to our surprise, we were able to win some awards. The second one was a milestone for me because it was my first video project with a celebrity. Lastly, my thesis, which was a mockup of a TVC. That’s where I met my girlfriend who keeps on inspiring me, and I’m always excited for what our next projects will be because they just keep on getting better.

4. What would you say is your signature style when it comes to videography?

I don’t think I have a signature style because I always base the video to what the client envisions.  For more ideas and exploration that
I can apply in my projects, I watch films and look up to my idols and influencers. You never stop learning.

9. Contact Details

a. Phone Number: 366-1069
b. Mobile Number: 0915-128-6750
c. Email: jericsonjabar@gmail.com
d. Website: none
e. Instagram/Facebook/Twitter:
* https://www.facebook.com/jericson.jabar
* https://www.facebook.com/spotlightcreatives/ 
* https://www.instagram.com/jericsonjabar/ 
* https://www.instagram.com/spotlightcreativesph/

Text by: Maan Fernandez

How did it all start for you? And when did it all start?

I started taking photos as a freshman in high school. In hindsight, I grew up with my Lolo and Kuya taking photos, so I guess it was only natural for me to follow suit. However, what really got me into photography was when I discovered teenage photographers on Flickr (Olivia Bolles, Chrissie White, and Eleanor Hardwicke to name a few). I was so inspired by their work, and I eventually built up the courage to start snapping away.

What do you love most about being a photographer?

I love being able to meet and work with talented people from all walks of life. I’m lucky to have made the best of friends through test shoots, and even client shoots. In my perspective, one of the best feelings is to have created something beautiful born out of a collective effort.

Is this the career you’ve always wanted to pursue?

It’s both a “yes” and a “no“.

“Yes” because photography is something I truly feel passionate about. Ever since I decided to seriously pursue my passion as my career, I can say I’ve never truly had a “bad” day at work.

On the other hand, I’d also say it’s a “No” because I always thought I would have to cave in and settle for a 9-5 job because pursuing a creative career would be too unpredictable (which funnily enough is what I love most about being a photographer now).

Name three projects you’re really proud of.

The first project I’m really proud of would have to be the Calyxta February cover shoot. It was my first time photographing a celebrity, and the advocacy behind the shoot is something very close to my heart.

The second shoot I’m most proud of would have to be a short feature I shot for MEGA Magazine. It was the first time I shot for a publication, and seeing my work printed out was such an otherworldly feeling!

Finally, the third would definitely have to be shooting for LOREAL’s 3-day mall activation. It was the first time I worked with such a big brand, and to have them trust me with manning my own booth at one of their events is something I would consider to be a career milestone.

What would you say is your signature style when it comes to photography?

I think my style has a lot to do with vibrant colors and soft, natural lighting.

The best professional advice you can give?

Learn to make opportunities for yourself. Don’t be afraid to make the first move, and never sell yourself short.

Phone Number: 7242214

Mobile Number: 09178821781

Email: heidisarol@gmail.com

Website: www.shescamerashyphotography.com

Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @heidisarol /heidisarolphotography

It’s almost close to impossible to miss out on this name if you’re big on the beauty scene. From globetrotting as a flight attendant to pursuing his passion for the arts, Jigs Mayuga has definitely secured his spot as one of Manila’s top celebrity makeup artists.

He has also been a staple artist for Calyxta—from welcoming in January 2017 with our cover shoot with Vanessa Matsunaga, to creating empowering looks last March 2017 for Karen Davila, to transforming our August 2017 #CalyxtaGirl, Andi Manzano, into iconic K-Beauty looks, and up until our most recent shoot with him for our February 2018 cover girl, Carla Abellana. Jigs has also collaborated with us on one of our biggest events for 2017, #ColorMeGorgeous, where he did a live makeup workshop on how to recreate five of 2017’s biggest beauty trends.

Learn from the makeup maestro himself by reading up on our quick chat with Jigs Mayuga!

1) How did it all start for you?

I was actually a flight attendant by profession when I first started after I graduated from college. But even then, when I was still flying, I would do the makeup of the other girls when we weren’t working in the galley or in the aisles during service, and even during our layovers abroad. Whenever I’d get bored, I’ll bug the girls to go to their rooms to do their makeup before we go to the airport for our flight. So it has always been kind of a hobby. But then when I got laid off in 2004, I decided to pursue it full-time. I studied in Center for Aesthetic Studies, which, ironically, I’m partners with now. So I’m actually a partner in that same school that I studied in 2004. That’s basically how I started.

2) Who was your first biggest client?

My first biggest client would probably be Bianca Gonzales. I started working with her early in my career. So when she was still starting, when she was still doing mornings in ANC, that’s when I met her, which was around 2005. Until this day, we still keep in touch. I still do her makeup for some of her projects.

3) What do you love most about your job as a makeup artist?

Ahhh, it’s different every time because you work with different faces, you work with different concepts for each project—it can be a commercial shoot one day, it can be an editorial shoot, or a cover shoot the next. So, it’s always different. It’s always a lot of fun.

4) Is this the career you’ve always wanted to pursue?

Actually, yes. Although I have other artistic inclinations—when I was younger I used to draw, I used to sing. But makeup was always, I think, the most fulfilling, and it’s always something I’d set aside time for even before I started to pursue it professionally.

A post shared by Jigs Mayuga (@jigsmayuga) on Jul 12, 2017 at 4:02am PDT

7) When you do bridal makeup, is there any difference from how you do a regular makeup look? Any difference in techniques?

Since I work with celebrities a lot, it’s easy to forget that you’re working with non-celebrities who have different concerns. When you work with brides, it’s really important that you communicate very well with the bride because some brides have different preferences when it comes to makeup. It can range from the most natural to sometimes, they want really, really dark, smoky makeup, so it’s very important that you communicate well with the bride so that you’re both on the same page. I think more than anything, I like doing the natural approach when it comes to makeup for brides. But then, as a makeup artist, it’s also important that you adjust to what the client wants and what the client needs.

Text by: Maan Fernandez

At such an early age in her career, Kim Wee Ebol has already started Spotlight Creatives, her very own production team. Despite being so young, her team has managed to work its way into landing the big names such as Preview, Metro, and Chalk PH. Working with them, you’ll definitely love their eagerness and drive to create and produce worthwhile content despite projects coming their way left and right. With Calyxta alone, they’ve already worked with us on two of our #CalyxtaGirl cover shoots for Megan Young (Deccember 2017) and Carla Abellana (February 2018).

Keep reading to get to know the young yet talented mind behind Spotlight Creatives!

How did it all start for you? When did it start?

It started back in college, I was pursuing photography then. I always took photos in university-wide events and portrait/travel photography on the side, until a friend invited me to join him during one of his shoots. At that time, I wasn’t fully interested because my passion is really in photography, but I had knowledge in producing and creating content since my course was Communication Arts. Up until after I graduated from college, my friend kept on inviting me to join him during video shoots. I ended up producing some of our university’s videos for social events, university-wide events, until they gave me the chance to produce the Marketing Video of the University of Santo Tomas. I guess, I can consider that as my big break because it opened opportunities for me as a content creator. It also gave me the chance to build my own production team. But that did not stop me from taking photos, since it has been my number one passion ever since.

What do you love most about being a videographer?

I love how I am given the opportunity to create content based on how I perceive things — creative freedom as some may call it. I also love how I am able to discover new styles and study new technical things based on a certain project’s theme and mood.

Name three of your biggest projects so far.

I am not sure what my biggest projects are, but I can mention three clients that gave Spotlight Creatives some of the most memorable projects that we’ve had:

• University of Santo Tomas Marketing Video
• Preview Magazine Cover Shoots
• Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, Pasta Festival AVP for Venice Grand Canal

What would you say is your signature style when it comes to videography?

I guess minimalism and simplicity? A little bit of urban as well. I try my best to incorporate a minimalism and urban mood in all my works, when given the chance.

Contact Details

• Mobile Number: 0917-851-9966
• Email: kim.ebol@gmail.com/ spotlightcreativesph@gmail.com
• Instagram: @kimweeebol / @kimweeebol_ / @spotlightcreativesph
• Facebook: spotlightcreatives
• Twitter: @kimweeebol

Among all our #CalyxtaGirl shoots, it was particularly interesting and fun to watch how Mac Igarta and Martine Cajucom instantly teamed up then-and-there on how to go about the four makeup looks we had for the day. Upon opening his beauty train, Martine was first to check out Mac’s newest makeup hauls from his recent trips out-of-the-country, which got her all giddy and excited! Working with him for the first time, it’s really no surprise why many top celebrities come to him for a glam session since he’s such a breeze to work with. Among the many stars that he regularly works with (besides Martine!), his all-star portfolio also includes our September 2017 #CalyxtaGirl, Lauren Reid, and July 2017 #CalyxtaGirl, Jess Wilson.

A post shared by Mac Igarta (@mac_igarta) on Oct 19, 2017 at 4:32am PDT

Get to know Mac Igarta more by reading up on our quick chat with this amazing makeup artist!

A post shared by Mac Igarta (@mac_igarta) on May 9, 2017 at 7:40pm PDT

Is this the career you’ve always wanted to pursue? Why? Why not?

At first, I never really thought of it as a career. I started as a call center agent and makeup was a hobby at that time. I met aspiring makeup artists and that’s when I became more engaged with makeup. I pursued a formal training and everything else just followed through.

Name three projects you’re really proud of.

One of the projects I am really proud of is the Master Facial Wash TV/Print Ad because it focuses more on James Reid’s face. The makeup had to be really natural and flawless. I am also proud of “Dugong Buhay,” the first teleserye I did back in 2013, which really trained me how to deal with people in the industry and polished my TV makeup. Last, but not the least is the JaDine World tour—it took me to different places I never thought I’d be.

What is the best advice that you’ve received about makeup?

Stay true to your artistry. Know your strengths and weaknesses and never stop growing. Continue to study and learn. Another advice that I won’t forget is to stay grounded.

Other than makeup, what are your other interests/hobbies?

I love traveling. One of the best experiences are the ones I did alone.

What do you do in your spare time?

I usually rest and go to spas to relax. I also watch movies with my family or friends. It’s also the time for me to catch up with friends.

For Martine’s makeup looks, can you give us tips/techniques on how to achieve the looks?

It was a Mac x Martine collaboration. Hahaha. Martine is a peach lover—that’s the color we love to play with. For her look, I added brown tones to give a burnt peach eyeshadow.

A post shared by Martine ✌🏼 (@martine) on Dec 13, 2017 at 4:44pm PST

Contact Details:

Mobile Number: 0915-176-7765
Email: igarta.mac@gmail.com
Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @mac_igarta

Text by: Maan Fernandez

You’ve probably seen her name in some of the hottest Instagram feeds, as she’s been shooting left-and-right some of the biggest names in the Metro such as Manila’s IT Girls, Georgina Wilson, Martine Cajucom, and Isabelle Daza; and young celebrities like Claudia Barretto, Ylona Garcia, and Andrea Brillantes to name a few of her star-studded portfolio. She’s done a number of editorial shoots for Preview, fashion campaigns with Folded and Hung, and fashion layouts for Star Style PH as well.

A post shared by Charisma Lico (@charismalico) on Jul 24, 2017 at 5:49am PDT

Definitely one up-and-coming photographer, get to know Charisma Lico more by reading up on our quick chat with this sought-after artist!

How did it all start for you?

My fascination in Fashion photography started when I was in high school, which made me take up Advertising Arts in college. After graduating, I started working as a freelance photographer while assisting another photographer. I continue to do freelance work until now.

What do you love most about being a photographer?

In general, what I love about being a photographer is that I can capture and immortalize moments. But as a Fashion photographer, I could say that what interests me the most is the idea of bringing out a look that a model has never tried before through different makeup and wardrobe looks, which sometimes make them say, “Is that me?“

A post shared by Charisma Lico (@charismalico) on Sep 13, 2017 at 7:42pm PDT

What was your favorite layout from the shoot?

Second layout. Loving the look of Martine and how the pink room complemented everything!

What do you do in your spare time?

I edit photos and spend quality time with my family and friends.

Contact Details:
Phone Number: 697 0639
Mobile Number: +639178664802
Email: charismalico@gmail.com
Website: www.charismalico.com

Text by: Maan Fernandez

With her infectious smile and a bubbly personality that never once faded during our whole-day shoot with our October #CalyxtaGirl, Maureen Wroblewitz, Ica Villanueva is a freelance stylist you’ll always want to have around on set. She’ll talk to you non-stop about anything and everything—the celebrities she has styled (this roster includes Boy Abunda, Yeng Constantino, and Amy Perez), how she was trained well by a leading styling company in the Philippines before deciding to do it as a freelancer, and all the projects she’s gotten since then.

A post shared by Ica Villanueva (@icavillanueva) on Aug 8, 2017 at 3:53am PDT

Get to know more about her in our series of Artist Profiles!

1. How did it all start for you? When did it all start?

I started when I was 20 years old and I worked as a styling assistant for 4 years.

2. How long have you been styling?

As a freelance stylist, it’s been 3 years already

3. What do you love most about your job?

I love transforming people and giving them confidence just by helping them with their looks. Also, I love meeting new people especially the opportunity to work with creative and passionate people in the industry.

4. What do you love most about styling and putting together outfit looks?

I love how I’m able to transform a person; being able to be surprised of how an outfit looks good on her; being able to experiment and try on different looks.

5. What would you say is your signature style?

My signature style would be street and edgy. I like playing with layers and textures. but I think being a stylist, it is important to be versatile, like from Melai Cantiveros to Yeng Constantino, I have to know their personal style and what looks good on them while putting my personal touch.

6. Where do you get your inspiration when styling?

I ask my client for their personal style, and what type of clothes they are comfortable with. Then I suggest and look for style inspirations that would be flattering and suitable to their personality and body type.

7. What do you believe is the best accessory?

Confidence. I think if you are confident that you are a good person, there’sthis certain aura and light that comes out naturally, which makes you carry your outfit well.

8. Is this the career you’ve always wanted to pursue? Why? Why not?

At first, I really wanted to be a chef. Haha! I’m really interested in the complexity of food. Aside for my love of food, I find it so magical that whatever we feel, food is always part of the celebration of the feeling.

A post shared by Ica Villanueva (@icavillanueva) on May 28, 2017 at 7:02am PDT

10. What is the best advice that you’ve received about styling?

Always be approachable, kind and humble because people will not be afraid to book you or ask for your advice because they find you relatable and easy to talk to.

11. Other than styling, what are your other interests/hobbies?

Honestly I am interested in food and cooking.

12. What do you do in your spare time?

I hang out with my friends usually like watch series, movies and trying new restaurants.

Instagram: @icavillanueva

Twitter: ica_villanueva

Facebook: ica villanueva

A post shared by MJ Rone (@iammjrone) on Jun 4, 2017 at 3:17am PDT

1. How did it all start for you? When did it all start?

I was working in the corporate world back in 2013 when I met my partner who is also a hair and makeup artist. I’d be his assistant whenever he had a gig until he introduced me to his professional HMUA friends—and that’s how I became part of this industry. I was exposed to doing hair and makeup for weddings, fashion week, and pageants. We were introduced to Cynos Inside Hair Care and Revlon Professional Brands Philippines, so I decided to concentrate more on hairstyling.

2. How long have you been doing hair?

I’ve been professionally styling hair for around three to four years now.

3. What do you love most about your job?

I used to work in an office before, which made me realize that it isn’t really for me. Like answering e-mails, talking to clients over the phone—where you can’t really see their reactions whether they’re actually satisfied with my service or not. I love talking to people, and I guess that’s why I love my job as a hairstylist. It allows me to talk to different types of people with different styles and personalities. It allows me to become more versatile with the hairstyles that I create to suit each and every one of my clients. I love seeing their reactions whether they love my work or not. It challenges me to give the style that they want without sacrificing my work. Like sometimes I have something in mind that looks better than what they want, so I will try to combine their pegs with mine.

4. What would you say is your signature hair look?

I’m a braid master. I love hairstyles with touches of braids or just loose braids.

5. Is this the career you’ve always wanted to pursue?

Not really. Hehe. I really wanted to be a restaurant owner or a singer.

6. Name three of your biggest projects so far?

I’ve done a couple of endorsements with our Asia’s Next Top Model Winner, Maureen Wroblewitz. I did her hair for Forme Clothing and ASUS. I also did the October issue cover for FHM magazine, as well as beauty editorials for L’Officiel, Metro Magazine, Metro Weddings, Spotted Magazine, and Scout Magazine. I’ve also styled Maymay Entrata, Kisses de Lavin, and Maris Racal.

A post shared by MJ Rone (@iammjrone) on Sep 3, 2017 at 6:38am PDT

7. What is the best advice that you’ve received about hairstyling?

The best advice is, “Always start off with a nice blow dry before moving on to styling hair.”

8. Other than hairstyling, what are your other interests/hobbies?

I’m currently a member of a choir. Whenever I have spare time, I see to it that I can practice and sing my heart out to God every Sunday. I also love watching hair tutorials on YouTube.

Contact Details

Mobile Number: 09165023707
Email: markjosephdrone@ymail.com
Instagram: @iammjrone
Facebook: MJ Rone

One third of Maureen’s staple glam team, Janina Dizon was a breath of fresh air on set as she quietly and effortlessly worked on recreating four of the most iconic beauty looks from the ’50s. Upon seeing the raw, unedited versions of the photos from the shoot, Mau looked flawless and stunning with her impeccable makeup looks that were insta-ready for posting.

If you follow her on Instagram, you’ve probably figured out by now that she’s a big foodie. She loves to cook and experiment with food as much as she loves beauty and makeup! And if you’ve happened to pass by a Nescafé ad in the grocery, it’s possible that this might have been this gorgeous lady’s work. She’s also collaborated with other international names such as Mossimo for their Fall campaign and UNICEF for women’s month. Keep reading to know more about this lovely artist!

1. How did it all start for you? When did it all start?

It actually started at an awkward stage in my life (quarter life crisis! Haha!) when I was unsure of what I wanted to do or be. I wasn’t really into makeup growing up, but it all started when a friend of mine studied makeup and I got curious—from there, the rest is history.

2. What do you love most about your job?

It’s the best feeling when you make someone feel more confident—you can see it in their eyes! I love it when clients take extra effort to let you know how happy they are with your work and how it made them feel great that day! That inspires me to do better and work more!

4. Is this the career you’ve always wanted to pursue?

When I was younger, my dream was to become a journalist. To travel and work at the same time. But being a makeup artist lets you travel and meet a lot of interesting people, too. I love my job!

5. Name three projects you’re really proud of.

Hmmm…I think I’m proud of all my projects. But if I had to choose three, it would be: Mossimo 2013 Fall Campaign because that’s one of my first billboards. I feel giddy seeing my work anywhere. Second, a Nescafé ad that I did a couple of years ago that I always see in the grocery (I love going to the grocery! It’s a big plus to see my work there). Last is a project that I did for women’s month a few years back where I got to meet UNICEF ambassadors. It’s always nice to meet and work with such strong and intelligent women!

A post shared by Janina Dizon (@makeupbyjaninadizon) on Oct 1, 2016 at 10:31am PDT

6. What is the best advice that you’ve received about makeup?

Less is more!

7. Other than makeup, what are your other interests/hobbies?

I love to cook! It’s another passion of mine. I’m happy when I’m cooking just like how I am when I’m doing makeup.

8. What do you do in your spare time?

I cook! I experiment on random recipes that I have. I also make time to have fun, enjoy, and travel when I have free days from work.

Text by: Gretchen Gatan