Pinay models make it big in New York

MANILA, Philippines - As each season’s fashion trends change, so does the definition of beauty in the eyes of the world’s most acclaimed designers. It now takes more than a “modelesque” look to make it big in the world of fashion.

So go the stories of the country’s leading Filipina models Gayle Ong, Charo Ronquillo, Lucia Santiago and Charlene Almarvez. All based in New York, they have proven that while being a model entails glamour, it demands an equal amount of focus, determination and confidence to land that dream job. All under the meticulous tutelage of mentor Joey Espino, Gayle, Charo, Lucia and Charlene not only have model miens

Charlene Almarvez in this year’s June/July issue of Teen Vogue and walking the runway for Lacoste at New York Fashion Week spring/summer 2010

but also the skills to conquer the Big Apple.

After modeling on the Asian circuit, Gayle Ong joined Ford Models in Chicago and shuttled to and from New York. Doing various campaigns and runway shows, Gayle showcased her talent working for the likes of Chanel, Carolina Herrera, Oscar de la Renta and Vera Wang. She did a print ad for Mercedes-Benz and La Salle Bank of Chicago, and also appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show. She has also modeled for Macy’s, Target, K-Mart and Wal-Mart. Being one of the more experienced in the industry, Gayle says, “Modeling is like any other job, but what makes you work harder is your passion and love for what you do.”

Lucia Santiago, on the other hand, received her big break after her win in the Elite Model competition and was sent to France. “Working in Manila gave me the knowledge I needed to make it in another country,” she says. “And once you are used to what you are doing, you will feel the need to challenge yourself more, which was what New York gave me.” Since moving to the Big Apple, Lucia has worked with major brands such as Baby Phat, Armani Exchange and many more. She has posed for photographers like Patrick Demarchelier and John Divine. She was also featured on the cover of Newsweek and has forayed into the world of entertainment with bit roles in hits like Gossip Girl and The Devil Wears Prada.

Young and talented, Charo Ronquillo proved that a Filipina can make it anywhere. On winning second runner-up in the Ford Models competition she shares, “It still is important to remain humble, and you cannot have an attitude if you want to make it. Joey always reminds us of that.” Moving to New York has opened up numerous opportunities for her, working for names such as Lacoste, Tory Burch, BCBG, Catherine Malandrino, starring in a JCPenney commercial for Ralph Lauren and working with photographers Bruce Weber and Arthur Elgort. Living far from home may be difficult for Charo but she says, “If you believe and if you really want it, no matter how many obstacles there are, you will find a way to get there.”

In New York for less than a year, 17-year-old Charlene Almarvez has already gained recognition in the global fashion industry. Having won

Gayle Ong lands on the cover of Time Out Chicago in 2005, and walking the runway for world-renowned designer Vera Wang.

first runner-up in the Ford Models World competition, she bested 32 other girls from different parts of the world. “It has made me more mature, flexible and organized,” says Charlene. Now based in New York, she has been in Teen Vogue and V magazine as well as working for designers and labels like Diane Von Furstenberg, Vera Wang, Peter Som, Tracy Reese, Nanette Lepore, Lacoste, Rachel Comey, Cynthia Steffe, Wayne and Sophie Theallet.

Joey Espino, the force behind successful models such as Teresa Herrera, Sarah Meier, Christine Bayer and many more, has guided the growth of Gayle, Lucia, Charo and Charlene from the time they were discovered. Through the years, Joey has taught them values that have made them who they are today. Asked what are the biggest lessons they’ve learned, Lucia shares, “Joey always says you have to have the right frame of mind.”

To these successful mannequins, Joey has gone far beyond the role of agent and mentor. He was also a peer and a confidante. “He is like a close friend, unlike other mentors who end with work,” says Charlene. “He stands as our adviser and motivator.” One of the most important things Joey taught them was “Opportunities come and go, modeling opportunities come once in a lifetime, so when you get there, you really have to make the most out of it.”

The success of these women proves that Pinays can make it anywhere. Gayle says, “People back home look up to foreign looks because they can really sell. Sadly, we fail to appreciate our own beauty.”

With efforts to change that mindset, Joey Espino opened the Masters School for Models, which not only trains men and women to be models but also equips students to make it big locally and internationally.

Gayle says, “Training is important because Joey doesn’t only teach you how to walk but he helps you prepare mentally and spiritually to be a good model. He taught us everything we should know to stay long in the industry.”

Lucia says that “modeling does not only require good looks and perfect height. It requires a deeper sense of commitment and entails a different kind of discipline that one can only realize and visualize through the help of a professional modeling school. What makes this school stand out from the rest is the global consciousness that each mentor has in making sure that every student excels not only within the local industry but in the international scene as well.”

For inquiries, visit Masters Schools for Models, G/F L.V. Locsin Bldg., Ayala Avenue corner Makati Avenue, Makati City, call 403-8607 or 400-3344 and look for Chriscel Agudo, or e-mail mastersschoolformodels@gmail.com. All interested applicants will be given an orientation. Masters School for Models is currently open to male and female aspirants.