24 Oras anchors talk about their clothing style

It’s been said many times before that “the clothes make the man” and whether or not we agree, there is truth to it. When we turn on the TV, we are drawn to characters who are dressed well, and are put off or feel sorry for those who aren’t.

Even when watching the news, we can’t help but comment on an anchor’s loud tie or his colleague’s distracting necklace. But on the other hand, it is seemingly easier to watch an anchor who is dressed appropriately.

Mel Tiangco, Mike Enriquez and Vicky Morales of GMA’s 24 Oras are literally “always in the news” so they know the importance of looking their best when they’re in front of the camera.

The ever elegant Mel says that her on-cam style has softened through the years. “My style before was so rigid. I would wear blazers and stockings every day, yun ang aking uniform in the newsroom. But now, I’m able to wear other styles of clothes, colors and prints. Minsan nga meron pang maiksi.”

She admits that while her style has changed over time, she always has to have a watch strapped on and a pair of earrings.

“A watch is a must for me. It is not just an accessory; it is more of a need because you’re always after the time. I’m almost always wearing a pair of earrings. More than any other accessory, I like earrings.”

Mel also relies on heels when she’s in front of the camera for 24 Oras, “simply because I feel you are able to project more and better kapag naka-high heels ka.”

Mike says his style has likewise evolved from his first newscast, which was Saksi. “I wore rolled-up long sleeves and a tie with no suit, my hair was long and wavy. Today, it’s strictly coat and tie and very neatly cut hair.”

His only accessories are his watches that he rotates depending on his mood. Mike describes the way he presents himself as, “very business-like. Very straight to the point. No frills. Simple but dignified.”

He says that while “television is a visual medium and looks matter a whole lot, the things that really matter are those that are not visible to the eye.” 

When they’re not at work and just chilling with their respective families, Mel and Mike prefer the comfort of well-worn clothes. He likes wearing “nice and loose pajamas” while she prefers dusters, “lalo na yung mga kupas-kupas. Simple lang at home.”

Their colleague Vicky also ascribes to clean and classic clothes when on-cam. “I get most of my work clothes from one clothing company because their dresses are the type that would look good even 10 or 20 years from now.”

She says her style has changed “from campus casual to corporate and then classic, which is most probably the look that will see me through my older years.”

Vicky already knows what looks good on her and which colors flatter her complexion. “I’ve become less experimental and more certain about which items I’d be willing to wear and which items I know won’t work. I tend to stay away from brown, old rose and maroon because I find that they don’t flatter my skin color.  I’ve always been fond of bright, happy colors and pastel versions of them,” she says.

Vicky prefers to wear flats because they allow her to chase after her kids and be more mobile but she acknowledges the power of a pair of heels. 
“I still enjoy high heels but I use them only during formal events and on-cam appearances because they prop up the outfit and help my posture,” she says.

At home with her husband and kids, Vicky wears lightweight cotton separates since comfort has become her top priority. “I bought a dozen cotton shirts in plain lavender to match the several pairs of lounge shorts and pants for everyday wear. They all come in pastel shades to make it easier to toss into the washing machine.”

Asked what items young professionals should consider investing in if they want to give off a more polished look, the well-dressed 24 Oras anchors have this to say.

Mel says a pearl necklace can make a look better. “I think young professionals should invest in pearls, a good watch and a good bag,” she says. For men, Mike suggests experimenting with watches, ties and glasses.

Vicky came up with a list of basics including a “good lightweight leather bag for everyday use, not necessarily designer; a simple pair of diamond stud earrings; a nice pair of pumps in nude and another in black patent; figure-flattering denims; a cashmere sweater in black or gray for travel; and classic dresses that never go out of style.”