In the world of modeling, the pinnacle of success is when one gains the coveted title of supermodel.
When one reaches supermodel status, it opens many doors not just for personal growth but also for once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to work with the best in the fashion industry through global campaigns and fashion shows.
Like Danica Magpantay, the first Filipino who bagged the Ford Supermodel of the World title in 2011, who has been taking steady strides in proving that she is a cut above the rest. She is the daughter of Lala Flores, who won the Supermodel of the World-Philippines in 1990. (Only a handful of Filipinos have come close to winning the title and entering the semi-finals of the Ford Supermodel of the World.)
Before winning the prestigious modeling competition in 2011, Danica was a Fine Arts student at the University of the Philippines. Now New York-based, she has been working as a professional model alongside thousands of others who dream of a bright future.
The 5’9” beauty remains unfazed by the trappings of the modeling world. Beyond the face is an intelligent and hardworking girl who has learned to survive in a landscape where one’s looks only last until the next “face” is discovered. Aside from her modeling assignments, Danica prides herself in working as a bartender in New York.
Recently, Ica (as she is fondly called by family and close friends) came home to Manila for a quick visit. Taking a break from work and the fashion scene, she spent quality time with loved ones before she went back to New York for her daily grind. Her quick stay in the Philippines turned into a mad schedule of fashion editorial shoots and walking the runway for Manila designers in the recently concluded Philippine Fashion Week. She also signed up with one of the most reputable top modeling agencies in Manila, IM Agency. It was truly a “workation” for Danica’s homecoming.
The STAR’s Allure section also had the rare opportunity to shoot the Filipino supermodel wearing the latest collection of Ricardo Preto for Rustan’s in one of the best dive resorts in Anilao, Batangas — Aiyanar.
Danica, now back in New York, is once again busy with modeling gigs. She has found her place under the sun and enjoys life on and off modeling in a super city. Kilometers of walks on the runways, thousands of poses for numerous campaigns and catalogs, gracing events and industry parties — all these and more are included in her “spotlight” life in the fashion capital.
Danica remains grounded. Though her future plans are to remain in the US, she finds time to come back to Manila to be with family, friends and probably do a bit of modeling in the Philippines. After all, “workation,” for her, is like hitting two birds with one stone. At the end of the day, no matter what, there’s no place like home.
Styling by Luis Espiritu JR. • Assistant stylists: Diane Lasam and Tara Subaldo • Makeup by Pia Reyes • Model: Danica Magpantay • Location: Aiyanar Beach and Dive Resort in Mabini, Batangas • All clothes by Ricardo Preto, exclusive for Rustan’s