DEAR ERZULLIE: 'HOW CAN I BE A FASHIONISTA?'

JUNE 9, 2012
8:51 AM

I have read this email 2 days ago and again, it was requested to be published publicly. So I hope that I helped a little with my answer.

Dear Erzullie,


I hope that you girls are having a great day. I really love your line of clothes, hoping to buy one really soon. 


I actually wrote this email because I want to know how can I be a fashionista like your models? What do I need to buy and should it always be expensive and branded? 


I'm a newbie when it comes to fashion so, I really don't know much. 


Ria D.


MY ANSWER:


Dear Ria,

Glad that you love our clothes. Hope that we see you very soon as well! We have an upcoming bazaar this July, where we will launch the PRE-HOLIDAY 2012. So we hope to see you there again.

With regards to your question, it all depends on how you view what a 'fashionista' is. I guess it varies from one person to another. For me, being a fashionista is a person in love with fashion. When it comes to love then, there is definitely VARYING DEGREES of it so we can go on forever with this. Lol.

Again, I really don't know if my models considered themselves as 'fashionistas' as well. But I do know however, that they are women with their own personal style.

I admire how Jhaki and Loren is always glam cosmopolitan corporate, how Andrea looks grounded in casual to formal, and how Karen is all about fun and youthful looks. So I guess ultimately what I can answer is how can you have style?

Style is determined by the lifestyle (no pun intended lol) that you have. Jhaki and Loren are about glam cosmopolitan corporate looks because they are working in the office that permits that. Andrea is more on the formal professional because she works in a school setting which of course needs a sense of conservative look. Karen on the other hand is young and into entrepreneurship so she loves to experiment with her fashion pieces.

It is further refined by your own preferential taste in color and silhouette. Jhaki is more of the cosmopolitan, urban jungle, full of vibrance. Loren is a little bit more dark in color choosing but she always blings it up with something bright. Andrea, as far as my observation goes, is more focused on the comfort and its elegance. Finally, for Karen it's more on the combination of textures of the clothes that makes it fun and youthful.

So with regards to you, you have to ask yourself --- what is your lifestyle? Then combine it with your favorites. You will know what is right for you.

With regards to does it always have to be expensive and branded? OF COURSE, not. It's actually more admirable if you look expensive in items that are in budget price. It shows that you are not bound by price tags, but your own preferred style. Also, with regards to the brand, I'm pretty sure that no one cares about it, so feel free to carry some items that you find here and there.

I do know for a fact that my models, Jhaki, Loren, Andrea and Karen (current ones) are not bound by just one brand name. What I love about them is their ability to combine different types of clothing in different price ranges and brands to create an exquisite looking ensemble.

Really chic.


Hope this helps,

CHEERS!

Aries

PLUS SIZE MODEL, LOREN M. (INTERVIEW)

JUNE 7, 2012
5:45 AM

Sorry for the late post ladies. @_@ Things got super hectic. This is the last part of the Erzullie Icon Interviews! Get to know more of Loren M.!

When I met Loren M. in the plus size model go-see, I was very impressed with her walk that my jaw dropped. It was something about the way that she presented herself that had "Erzullie" written all over. It was special. I just hoped thereon that she would also apply as an Erzullie Icon. --- Aries D.G., on what Loren M. did to impress her


1.       Name 

Loren Mae E. Monares

2.       Occupation 

Certified Public Accountant – Currently a Financial Specialist in a German Investment Bank


3.       Before you became an icon, what was your journey as a plus size woman? What was the meaning of being ‘plus size’ to you? Why?

         Even before being an Erzullie ICON, I have been spending my life inspiring others to love themselves. My size has never been a hindrance for me to reach my dreams and become successful. Way back in my childhood, I remember a lot of high school students pinching my cheeks. I asked my parents why they loved teasing me. Mommy said: “Because they find you cute that’s why.” From then on, I always believed that I am cute and beautiful which gave me the confidence to face everyone. Thanks to my parents then!

        I have always been active. In high school I went through training for CAT officer, performed (acting, dancing and singing) on stage, climbed a 50 feet wall during our Ayala Congress, and a lot more. How can a plus size woman do all that? My tip: It’s all in the mind! Believe that you can do anything. No matter how thin or big you are, anything is possible! ;)

4.       Before you were an Icon, were you already able to come into terms with your body? If yes, how did you come about accepting yourself as plus size? If no, go to the next question.
         
       Yes, I never considered myself different. I just basically did what i want to do and never doubt my capabilities because of my size. You define your own happiness. It's a choice that you have to take. Learn to be contented with what God has given you and make the most out of that life to share His blessings to others.

5.       What triggered you to accept yourself as a plus size woman? Why?

Every step of my journey, i discovered so many great things about myself which made me love myself more and more each day.

6.       As an Erzullie Icon, you did some fashion projects, what was your most favorite and memorable? Why?

         My most memorable fashion project was when I took part of the Erzullie Holiday 2011 Fashion Show. Memorable for one, because it was my first fashion show ever! Second, because it was a fashion show with a mixture of slim and plus size models. When you say “fashion show,” what comes into my mind are beautiful dresses, runways, spotlights, and starvation in preparation for the show. But the funny thing is, being a plus size model you have the privilege to eat before, during, and after the fashion show. At that point somehow I felt lucky. Some of my co-models even brought some snacks after we just had our lunch! As a result, Erzullie models were full of energy during the runway which hyped the audience. Third, some players from the Philippine Azkals team modeled with us. Last but not the least, I met new friends. Lots and lots of new friends!

7.       How did being an Erzullie Icon, in general, change you as a plus size woman? Did it enrich you or you just feel the same about it? How so and why?

When I became an Erzullie ICON, it gave me the opportunity to inspire more plus size women. I became more inspired to share that positive mind set with others. This led me to be more active on different social sites such as twitter, facebook and my very own blog site. It may sound simple posting pictures and sharing stories in those social networks, but for me, it’s not just about posting photos and writing blogs. It’s more of sharing those moments and hopefully making other plus size women empowered. You can be fashionable and beautiful regardless of size.

                Initially, my reason for joining Erzullie was to gain experience and exposure. When I made it through the screening, and started being an icon, I realized that I became a part of Erzullie for a greater purpose. It was not solely for myself, but also for other women whom I have inspired.
Bottom line is, Erzullie ICON has been a blessing for me and I will always cherish every moment of this.

8.       During your iconship, you have met other people who are also part of the plus size community from regular customers to people actually working on the field of the plus size fashion industry, did that change your perception of what plus size is? How and why?

                     Since I became part of the Erzullie family, my perception of plus size was just reconfirmed. I always believe that size is just a number, and that it shouldn’t stop you from doing what you want or achieving your dreams. In my life, I have met so many dynamic, successful and beautiful women. I then realized that the old perception of fashion industry has changed. Before, it is normally associated with slim women. Now, I am grateful that regardless of what your size is, women are given equal opportunities to make it to the runway.  I’m thankful that our society has eventually acknowledge the beauty that plus size women have to offer. I admire specifically my plus size friends who have ventured and are successful in the fashion industry, from brilliant designers to sexy models and to fashion line business owners. Way to go girls! Stay empowered.

9.       To you then, what is plus size? Is it about measurement or outlook? Elaborate

                 My perception of “size”, in general, is it’s just a number. It doesn’t define you as a person. It shouldn’t stop you from doing what you want to do or reaching your dreams. It shouldn’t let you feel less beautiful.

10.   What is your message to the plus size community, in general? What do you think is the most important thing that they should know about how they should handle their body right now?

       It all starts in you. There is more to life than you could ever think of. Start loving yourself, if you haven’t yet. You must realize that God created you, and that God made everything beautiful. It’s just a matter of outlook in life. Life is short, so make the most out of it! For those who have accepted themselves and are soaring high in reaching their dreams, well done!

Let’s always remember that the world is diverse, and it is diversity that makes the world more colorful. This makes the world more fun and exciting! ;)

PLUS SIZE MODEL: JHAKI DAVID (INTERVIEW)

June 1, 2012
9:24 am

Jhaki (David-Calanoc), just like Khris (Guarin), has inspired a lot of plus size women and a lot of new Erzulliestas came out because of them. I love her style because whatever it is, you know --- IT'S JHAKI. --- Aries De Guzman, on why Jhaki David became a model again for Resort 2012


1.       Name:  

Jhaki David-Calanoc

2.       Occupation:  

Sr.Account Executive / Business Unit Head

3.       Before you became an icon, what was your journey as a plus size woman? What was the meaning of being ‘plus size’ to you? Why?

I was always on the chubby side since I was a little girl. I also went through the bullying stage from others and being insecure of being fat plus I also suffered from anorexia nervosa and iron deficiency anemia during my teens.

Luckily,  I am blessed with a partner, a family and best friends  that believes in me and supports my dreams, they are the ultimate source of both inspiration and confidence. And as my perspective grows I decided to accept myself and embrace my curves.

Instead of letting them put  a good spirit down, I look at the brighter side of things with the help of positive attitude.

I love feeling good, taking care of myself and wearing what I want.

On the other hand, being a “Plus Size” is also a privilege. I am just one of the Plus Size women out there who wants to inspire others and who seek changes when it comes to beauty and fashion world. But I didn’t know how, until I was chosen as one of the Erzullie Icons.

4.       Before you were an Icon, were you already able to come into terms with your body? If yes, how did you come about accepting yourself as plus size?

Before being part of Erzullie as an Icon, I already accepted and love myself  the way I was created by God.
However,  there are still questions in my mind. Like, why I have slow metabolism? Why I’m not skinny? Why I’m not long legged? And so on and so forth.

Later on, I realized that I was born this way for a reason. I was destined to inspire other women who are also facing the same issue with their body.

5.       What triggered you to accept yourself as a plus size woman? Why?


I decided to look at the bright side of being a plus size. Instead of comparing myself  to others especially when it comes to body measurements, I bear in my mind that diversity is beautiful and all we need to do is to embrace and accept our uniqueness.

Through Erzullie, I discover a lot in the Plus Size world.  I met the most beautiful, kind and talented plus size people. Erzullie opened my eyes to accept my imperfections and to be contented plus appreciate more what I have.

6.       As an Erzullie Icon, you did some fashion projects, what was your most favorite and memorable? Why?

I had numerous favorite and memorable moments with Erzullie as a brand and also with the people behind it.  So far, my top favorite was The Erzullie and Empresario Fashion Show. It was my first runway walk. I love it!

7.       How did being an Erzullie Icon, in general, change you as a plus size woman? Did it enrich you or you just feel the same about it? How so and why?

Erzullie developed  my skills professionally and enhanced my personal relationship with other people.

8.       During your iconship, you have met other people who are also part of the plus size community from regular customers to people actually working on the field of the plus size fashion industry, did that change your perception of what plus size is? How and why?

I always admire and always will respect the plus size people. I was amazed to found out that there are many plus size women out there, just like me.

9.       To you then, what is plus size? Is it about measurement or outlook? Elaborate


  Being a Plus Size is more than just our body measurements. It’s more of the way we see it and our attitudes towards being a plus size.  If you are confident that you are sexy and beautiful, then everyone will agree.

10.   What is your message to the plus size community, in general? What do you think is the most important thing that they should know about how they should handle their body right now? 

Perfection isn't fixed and diversity is beautiful. Keep in mind that everyone is unique and all of us still have room for improvements.

I believe that God blessed me with a full figured body and large structured bones for a reason and that's my inspiration to love myself.

I looked at the physical differences on a broader spectrum, that sizes must not limit you from reaching the dream and it doesn't make you any less to anybody. Keep your spirit up, be kind to others, accept and love yourself.

PLUS SIZE MODEL: KAREN DIOKNO (INTERVIEW)

May 30, 2012
1:31 pm

As Pre-Holiday 2012 collection is about to approach, let's all get to know Erzullie Icon, Karen Diokno, one more time! Here is her Erzullie Icon Interview. So fierce!


"Karen D., during the Plus Size Model Go-See for Erzullie, was the most demure model I have ever met so far. I love her professionalism and girl next door charm. The reason that we chose her as an Erzullie Icon, after she applied for it, was because she overtime, she became one of our (Berna and I) muses --- she was smart, independent, in a healthy relationship (with self and boyfriend) and of course, family --- just like what a true Erzulliesta is."  --- Aries De Guzman, on why Karen Diokno became an Erzullie Icon. 

1. Name


Karen Chona V. Diokno

2. Occupation


Registered Nurse

3. Before you became an icon, what was your journey as a plus size woman? What was the meaning of being ‘plus size’ to you? Why?


I have always been "curvylicious". I've been called names like "taba" and bullied at school by the "pretty girls" during college. I even get the disgusted stares as if saying "eww" and the "head to toe" look. It started when the whole school came to know that one of the popular boys is my boyfriend (we're still together!). I usually hear stuff like "bakit siya?" or " eh ang taba taba niya kaya". And of course the never ending rumor of "the other woman".. I just laugh at it quietly and sometimes I smile at them.

For me, being plus size is a great thing coz it means that the people around you now and the loved ones beside you accept every inch of you for real. They really want to be with you not just because of "how you look" but because of "who and what you are".

4. Before you were an Icon, were you already able to come into terms with your body? If yes, how did you come about accepting yourself as plus size? 

Yes! I already ssssoooo accepted my body! At such a young age, I never let my physical features define who I am. From the negative comments they throw at me, I gather confidence to prove them wrong. I often contemplate alot on why they do such things to me and realized that its only because of my size and nothing else. I got to know myself  and love myself and go above the society's way of thinking that "THIN IS IN". I realized that you have to truly and honestly accept and love yourself first before others can love you.So i said to myself "So what if Im fat, I have alot more to offer". And from then on harsh words, teasing and bullying never got to me, instead I just smile and say thank you, and trust me, it leaves a "shocked" look and matching "facepalm" on your enemy's face.. hihihihih!

5. What triggered you to accept yourself as a plus size woman? Why?


I don't really know because it was never an issue for me (humility aside!). But i guess I can say that my family and my boyfriends' support and acceptance of how i look and who i am made me love myself more and it really boost my confidence.

6. As an Erzullie Icon, you did some fashion projects, what was your most favorite and memorable? Why?


Ooohh! I love all the projects we did but my most favorite would have to be the EMPRESSARIO fashion show. Not just because its my first ever "model" experience but because even though we were there with "regular" models, my co-plus size models and icons rocked the show! I guessed it showed other plus size women that "yeah plus size women can also do this and WE can be part of the fashion industry!"

7. How did being an Erzullie Icon, in general, change you as a plus size woman? Did it enrich you or you just feel the same about it? How so and why?


Being an ERZULLIE ICON is a great deal for me, not only did I fulfill my dream of becoming a model but I also found a FAMILY! It made me feel that my being a PLUS SIZE has a purpose and that is to encourage others to accept their curvveyy body! Even before I was an ICON, I was already sharing and lecturing others on self love and acceptance and knowing your worth and now that I am part of this FAMILY, I can reach out to more women out there.

8. During your iconship, you have met other people who are also part of the plus size community from regular customers to people actually working on the field of the plus size fashion industry, did that change your perception of what plus size is? How and why?

Yes, it changed my perception for the better! I realized that there are alot of fun, fierce and seexxeeeyy plus size women out there and they influenced me fashion wise and personality wise as well. They inspired me to have fun with fashion and open up to people. There was one time, during a bazaar at rockwell, I saw this SEXY plus size lady in a halter top and I found myself saying "damn ang galing naman niya!She looks uber fabulous".. That's when i realized that curvveyy women can be sexier than umm "regular" women. All it takes is ATTITUDE and CONFIDENCE.

9. To you then, what is plus size? Is it about measurement or outlook? Elaborate


For me, its both! Yes plus size is a standard of measurement but its how you accept yourself and how you see yourself owning up to that measurement. As a plus size, we should accept it, love it and FLAUNT it.

10. What is your message to the plus size community, in general? What do you think is the most important thing that they should know about how they should handle their body right now?

Being a plus size woman should never be taken as a negative. We are just like other women but with a gift that most women would pay alot of money to have (you know what i mean wink* wink*!)..

But seriously, find some quiet time and think about what is good about you and what are your assets (appearance,personality, talent,intelligence etc.) ,build on that. Learn to accept your body and be happy with what GOD gave you and be thankful that he made you complete. Then maybe you too will realize that there is more to yourself than being a "PLUS SIZE" and its not such a bad thing after all.

ABOUT KRAVE MINERALE COSMECEUTICALS

MAY 29, 2012
5:23 AM

PHOTO FROM: KRAVE MINERALE COSMECEUTICALS

I have actually been receiving a lot of inquiry about Krave Minerale Cosmeceuticals since we have collaborated with them for our current Resort 2012 collection (purchase it here: http://erzullie.multiply.com). I know that I have answered some individually, but I had a request that I actually answer this letter publicly so that it would benefit others who are also curious about it as well.

So here is the letter:

Dear Erzullie,


 I have heard about Krave Minerale Cosmeceuticals and saw that you girls actually collaborated with them for your photo shoot. Do the products really work or are you just saying it because it's part of the agreement of your collaboration? Did you photoshop the photos of your "Just You" photos or do your models actually look like that? 


Sorry for the direct questions. I just really want to know the answer. Please post it to your blog as I check that more than my email. I'm pretty sure other girls are curious about it too.


Mariel Guezza, Makati City


OUR ANSWER


All your questions are valid. In fact, as a consumer myself, I have also wondered at times if people said something because it's part of their agreement or it's really just one honest opinion about it. So no need for apologies.

We actually collaborated with Krave Minerale because I, personally, have tried the make up products used in the photoshoot (eye shadow, face mist, lip gloss, mineral blush, loose mineral foundation and liquid foundation) before I have allowed it to be used on my models. Krave Minerale, at that time, is obviously new and definitely, I would like to test it on myself and see if it is really safe, before I allow it to be used on any of my models.

I must say that that I was very impressed with the products and if you google "krave minerale" I actually agree in most of the reviews posted about the products that I have tried.

For the eye shadow, we actually have to put in a little water for it to work fully on the models. We went a little soft on color since the lashes (by Ravish) is the one that we want to focus more for that part. However, once you get a hang of it, it's amazing.

For the face mist, I actually did it before and after I have applied liquid and mineral foundation. All throughout the shoot, there was really minor to no touch up needed for it.

For the lip gloss, we absolutely love the colors we have used the colors are in fact, for us, good enough to pop out on the shoot (check out the photos) and this is with flash and lights. So you can imagine the effect it gives on a normal day to day lighting.

One of our favorite items in the whole bunch is the mineral blush. Berna and I cannot stress this enough. It's just the right hint of color on your cheeks and at least for us, it lasts the whole day! We absolutely love it!

Now, the loose mineral foundation and liquid foundation, for me, is the most incredible thing. To be honest, when we used it on our Erzullie Icon and Plus Size model, Loren Monares, the color was too dark for her face and we were worried that it's not going to work. But then, after applying the mineral foundation and facial mist, bam! It blended. I can't explain how but it just did. Well, you can just judge on the photos.

For the "Just You" photos, you should know that there was no photo shop involved (we only placed the words there and that is it) for you girls to actually know that this is how Krave Minerale Cosmeceuticals really works as is. Of course, it helps that my models are naturally beautiful (naks!) but I must admit that you can just see from the photos, the effectivity of the products that we have used.

So in conclusion, we have used the product not because the agreement said so it's because it ACTUALLY WORKS (at least for us) because I have tried it personally and no, we did not touch any of the faces in the "Just You" photos because that was the concept --- no need for it --- "Just You".

Hope this helps.

Aries