MANILA, Philippines - We’ve seen different prototypes of models come and go. On the one end are the mannequins whose unique and captivating features define what is current and contemporary. Then, of course, there are the timeless beauties whose faces have graced covers, beauty ad campaigns and countless television commercials. They are the kinds who, as time goes by, only grow more and more enchanting with each year. Such is the case with supermodel Grace Tagle-Arigo.
A veteran in her career, Grace is what one will consider a classic Filipina beauty whose demeanor and achievements have truly set the standards in her field. Her foray into the business has also contributed significantly to the admirable demeanor and approach she makes when it comes to work. She confesses humbly, “Luis Espiritu, who is also my mentor, took a chance on me in this industry. He believed in me and encouraged me to give modeling a shot.” Her vast resume, notably, has proved that it was all worth the gamble with countless runways shows, editorial shoots and major campaigns — here and abroad — filling up her black book. “(Modeling after all these years) gave me the confidence I needed for my work. It also helped me to always aim for the best,” she explains.
Despite her success, Grace keeps her feet firmly planted on the ground. Not in any way the kind to attract tabloid or taboo attention, Grace explains, “In my line of work, keeping a good reputation is one of the biggest responsibilities.” Instead of indulging in crazed shopping sprees or being a regular at A-list parties, Grace prefers being the very anti-thesis to the notion that modeling is all about fame and glamour. Indeed, normalcy plays a very significant role in the ideal balance that Grace has managed to establish in her life. According to the olive-skinned stunner, her life mainly revolves around her family and the environment (“I have made a habit out of re-using and recycling,” Grace explains). She even goes on to share that, “After a glam shoot or doing the runway, at the end of the day, I’m just like the others. When each day is over, I just tell myself that it’s time to relax, have a good dinner or read my favorite book.” When work is not taking up her time, she reveals a love for the great outdoors — visiting a farm, fishing, or even spending a whole night staring up at the stars.
It is through her genuine nature and sincere manner that Grace garners admiration from peers and colleagues. After all, in an industry that generally banks on what’s on the surface, seldom can one come across somebody who remains unaffected by attention and all that is superficial. And not only does she epitomize timelessness and elegance, she also proves, if anything, that it is the simple things that matter the most. By sticking to what is essential and truly meaningful, Grace Tagle-Arigo reminds each and every one of us what a true supermodel is.