SM plus size model search finalists pose for Substance

MANILA, Philippines - Recently, SM Department Store launched a modeling search for full-figured women. Two of the finalists from the search had the experience of their lifetime by posing for one of the most established brands called Substance.

Mercille Tiomico and Noreen Wage were ecstatic over their experience as fashion models and can’t help but compare themselves to the petite and slim models who are usually seen on the runway and fashion editorials in magazines. They also had fun working with model-turned-photographer Bong Regala and hair and make-up stylist Renata.

Mercille and Noreen also got the chance to work with RTW designer Boyet Fajardo who’s responsible for the success of Substance as a brand for plus size women.

Boyet says, “Nowadays, fashion is becoming more aggressive when it comes to sexy silhouettes that require showing more flesh than the usual. For full-figured women, this becomes a challenge especially to those who want to keep up with the trend.”

“For Mercille and Noreen as well as other girls and women who have that full-figured shape, I designed some fresh range of looks to meet their needs, attitude and lifestyle. The collection showcases more versatile and upbeat designs, giving an extra fresh and fashionable take on living life large and sexy,” adds Fajardo.

“Aside from being more stylish, our customers have been really vocal about wanting to wear bold pieces. So what I did was to marry all the elements to come up with looks and fits to flatter them in fresh ways. Substance continues to evolve because we want to cater to a wider market when it comes to plus-sized women,” Fajardo explains.

Mercille and Noreen, for their part, express “that a lot of full-figured women are afraid to wear clothes in striking bold colors. Most of them would stick to black whether it’s an off-the-shoulder blouse or a mini-dress. But for us, we believe that going out of that comfort and trying shades of blue, yellow, fuchsia and green does not really matter. We believe that it’s about time to show them that being full-figured can be sexy and attractive in so many ways, especially in fashion.”

Substance celebrates a woman’s true fashion sense and showcases her individuality. From clothes that make you look sharp at the office to dresses that take you to any occasion, this is fashion designed for and inspired by plus-sized women. Substance is available at selected SM Department Stores nationwide.