Walk their way
Whether they’re wading through the Mekong in Havaianas flip-flops or strolling by the Marais in Payless ballet flats, today’s jet setting crew of stylish girls know how to dress the part. YStyle talks globe-trotting and the tools of the seasoned traveler.
Cat Juan Ledesma, 33
Writer/ teacher
What are you wearing?
A gray boyfriend tee, my favorite stretchy skinny jeans, a scarf that used to be one of my son’s swaddle blankets, a woven fedora that can be scrunched up in my bag and comfy brown wedges from Payless. I’d wear this outfit for a day of sight seeing during spring/summer, complete with a stop somewhere for a cold beer and an afternoon of people watching.
What are your travel essentials?
I fell in love with Lucas Pawpaw Ointment while living in Sydney. Great for chapped lips, hands and as an impromptu eye makeup remover. I love the portability of the Lumix GF2 and when paired with a 20mm lens, it takes such amazing portraits. I don’t get on a plane without a scarf. I got this one from Istanbul and it’s a favorite. I’ve got a few colorful purses where I only put my essentials for the day. The thought of losing my entire wallet in a foreign country freaks me out.
Where’ve you been this year?
Since we just moved back to Manila, we’re focusing on traveling around the Philippines and taking advantage of the warm water and white beaches. Like Camiguin — my family has been going to this hidden gem since the 1970s. We went island hopping, hiked to waterfalls and checked out a volcanology center.
Where are you headed this summer?
Danjugan Island, which is a marine sanctuary located in Negros. We plan to snorkel with reef sharks, kayak around the island and have our fill of local fruits and fresh oysters. They offer youth marine camps this summer. (Facebook.com/DanjuganIsland)
Dream destination?
Argentina. Beautiful architecture, excellent steaks and jaw-dropping glaciers. What more could you need?
Chelsea Robato, 23

Model
What are you wearing?
A top from Forever 21, leather shorts from Germany and flats from Payless. I’d wear this outfit to go sightseeing or shopping. The shorts and flats are good for the summertime and the long-sleeved top to avoid suntan lines.
What are your travel essentials?
Louis Vuitton travel case, Hermés 140cm cashmere-silk scarf, Mulberry Alexa bag and Payless sandals
Where’ve you been this year?
Within the last year, I’ve been to Thailand, Guam, Hong Kong, Hawaii and Singapore. 
I went to Thailand to work for three months and I traveled to shoot a TVC in Phucket and Phi Phi Island. I visited Singapore and Hawaii for a family vacation with my mom. Hong Kong, for shopping and for the amazing Chinese food. I also went to Guam for work and shopping.
Where are you headed this summer?
Back to Guam and planning for Japan and Paris.
Dream destination?
I would love to see Greece’s blue seas and rooftops.
Cecile Golez, 31
Writer/social media marketing consultant
What are you wearing?
I’m wearing a button-down cotton top from The Gap, shorts from Mango and flats from Payless. I’d wear this outfit for walking around and exploring a new city!
What are your travel essentials?
Ray-Ban flash lens aviators, a large tote like this Goyard, comfy sandals from Payless and my “travel organizer,†which has labeled compartments for holding my passport, tickets, money and other travel documents.
Where’ve you been this year?
Except for the hike up Mount Pulag to see the famous sunrise, I pretty much went island hopping around the country this year. I swam with whale sharks, snorkeled and explored new beaches in the following local destinations: Iloilo, Guimaras, Boracay, Cebu and Donsol (Sorsogon)! It’s really more fun in the Philippines!
Where are you headed this summer?
I’m flying to Taipei soon to gorge on all the local eats and then it’s off to Siem Reap for a much awaited temple run!
Dream destination?
Greece for, well, just about everything — the history, architecture and people are all so fascinating. The Greek islands all look amazing in photos and don’t even get me started on the food!
Miel Villamor, 24
Fashion stylist/ entrepreneur
What are you wearing?
I am wearing an H&M knit top, American Apparel high-waist leggings and Payless wedges. I wore this outfit when I went to Hong Kong for Holy Week. It is probably my most comfortable travel outfit, whether it is a long or short-haul flight.
What are your travel essentials?
A Chanel chain — I always bring minimal accessories when I travel so there will be fewer chances of me losing anything. The YSL Muse Two is a perfectly sized bag to have all my travel essentials. My Marc Jacobs toiletry bag works well for me because it helps me bring the right amount of products. The size helps me to not overpack. Since I handle an online business (stylehunter.ph), an iPad is very important for me, since I always need to have access to the website no matter where I am.
Where’ve you been this year?
I have been mostly around Asia this year, Hong Kong, Bali and Shanghai. I went for work and also visited some friends.
Where are you headed this summer?
NYC and Boston for a family vacation.
Dream destination?
Argentina because the culture, food and people seem so interesting. Plus, I have never been to South America and definitely want to visit.
Footwear by PAYLESS
Photos by SARA BLACK
Makeup by PONG NIU and ANGEL REYES-MANHILOT for MAC
Hair by DIVAD MEDINA
