MANILA, Philippines - One would think putting such creative individuals together in one room –– photographers, models, designers and writers –– would give way to beyond-pretentious talk. But there was none of that at the YStyle Christmas party. No one, tried to pretend, in fact, to be excited about anything else but the highly anticipated raffle, which held the promise of a new iPhone 4s, Samsung Galaxy Note, a Canon S100 camera and hoards of GCs from friends. Of course, their actions said otherwise. Last Dec. 6, the SM Mall of Asia Director’s Club was filled not just with creative minds who’ve done groundbreaking work in the local fashion scene, but warm and fuzzy people who welcomed fellow assistant editor Cai Subijano and I with smiling faces and infectious energy. It was our first YStyle party though we’ve heard about how legendary it always turns out. Alcohol was not served but it wasn’t like we needed it –– there was food from Amici and milk tea from Saint's Alps, and pizza from YStyle editor Bea Ledesma –– so we’ll remember this one quite vividly. Mich Dulce repeatedly mentioned something about being part of the “winner’s circle.” It certainly felt that way for all of us. Happy holidays!
“Is Joyce Makitalo wearing Mary Katrantzou?” – Cai Subijano
Jewelry designer Joyce Makitalo arrived in heels and, minutes later, changed to Havaianas flip-flops (everyone got a pair, thank you Havaianas). We confirmed later on that her outfit was not Mary Katrantzou, but a two-piece D&G ensemble.
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“Raffle! Raffle! Raffle naaaaa!” – Mich Dulce
Weeks from the party, YStyle columnist Mich Dulce posted “Raffle!” on our Facebook event page. At the registration area, these were her first words. We love an accomplished woman who knows the best things in life are free.
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“Cai, please model. You have the background for it.” – Bea Ledesma
Bea Ledesma introduces Cai before the raffle and asks the Miss Earth and Binibining Pilipinas runner-up to model our prizes all over the front of the theater. Cai “happily” obliged.
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“Sabi mo hindi horror?!”– Sara Black
An outraged Sara Black said this when she realized we were watching House at the End of the Street. Bea assured her, “It’s not horror, it’s thriller! Walang mumu!”
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“Can I register twice?” – Ivar Aseron/Jessica Yang/Niccolo Cosme/Alee Benson
Ah, this is, without a doubt, the quote of the night. With such nice prizes, who wouldn’t want more chances to win the raffle? (Thank you, sponsors!)
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Thank you to SM Cinemas and SM Homeworld.