(Conclusion)
Uptown/Downtown concludes its two-part feature on what to wear for the graduation ball with a collection of five gorgeous gowns shot at the Conrad Manila.
The spectacular hotel was the perfect setting for this dreamy fashion editorial. Conrad Manila is situated at the edge of Manila Bay, where guests are treated to breathtaking views of the natural harbor. Equally impressive are its laid-back C Lounge, luxurious Spa, and the famous China Blue restaurant, all of which were used as venues for U/D’s shoot.
For this year’s graduates, our designers and makeup artist have come up with special tips.
Pastel Princess. Blush pink serpentine gown in silk gazaar with flounced organdy skirt by Ronaldo Arnaldo.
Luis de los Santos has this sage advice: “Be adorable with the right lip color. The color of your lips should complement the color of the gown you are wearing. It shouldn’t be too contrasting, too pale, too dark or too vibrant. If your gown is color green or blue, avoid red lip tint because that would be too contrasting. Instead, use pink (in any shade), peach or orange shades, nude or mauve.”
Dennis Martin shares, “Choose the right gown that will look best on your body structure and skin tone. Show the right amount of skin that is appropriate for your age because exposing too much skin may make you look mature.”
Delby Bragais says, “Yes, we all have fashion ideals who we want to channel. But being you is always the most important. I advise young women to always strive to be the best versions of themselves at the grad ball. By all means, take inspiration from someone you admire, but still let yourself shine through.”
Finally, makeup artist Reynaldo Legarda has this to say, “The best makeup tip is ‘listen to your mom.’ If you’re confused and don’t know which eye color or lipstick or even accessories to wear, ask your mom because she always knows what fits you. And besides, your mom (and your dad) will be the ones who will be paying for the things you need for your grad ball.”
Black beauty. Beaded serpentina gown in black sequined fabric by Dennis Martin.
Photography by Joanne Zapanta-Andrada • Model: Ella Tejana • Makeup and hairstyling by Reynaldo Legarda (0917-5378053) • Shot on location at Conrad Manila (Seaside Boulevard, Bay City, Pasay) • Special thanks to Zeny Iglesias, Angel Velasco and Ramon Vera of Conrad Manila • Gowns by Luis de los Santos (1A 8378 Mayapis St. San Antonio Village, Makati City. Cel. nos. 0917-4192180 and 0927-0637793), Rem Divino (45 F. Aguirre corner Tirona Streets, BF Homes, Parañaque City. Tel. nos. 809-7625 and 0916-6934446), Ronaldo Arnaldo (Tel. nos. 959-4351 and 0917-5259823), Delby Bragais (G/F South of The Market Bldg., 26th St. corner 11th Ave, Bonifacio Global City. Tel. nos. 0917-8117992 and 556-6161 or visit www.delbybragaisbridal.com) and Dennis Martin (48 Sampaguita Ave. Mapayapa Village 2, Quezon City. Tel. nos. 917-6393 and 0917-8124008. E-mail dennis_c_martin@yahoo.com)