Fashion tips from Iloilo’s style influencers

Forever21, a brand that originated from California in 1984 and entered the Philippine market in 2010, is now closer to Ilonggos with its opening at SM City Iloilo’s new wing.

Quito Trenas, Amanda Trenas and Mary Gay Golez & JM Tiongco

The 700 square meter store located on the 2nd floor of the mall, will feature collections for women, men, and plus-size individuals. Forever 21’s newest women’s collections are geared for boho, military, prep, sporty and 90s street style will be on display at the store. These include distressed denim, bomber jackets and sleek French coats.

Fashionistas who love the Forever 21 brand need not go to Manila to shop! The good news was announced last September 16 during Forever pre-opening party at Bluejay Coffee where Iloilo’s style influencers and lifestyle bloggers attended.

Ryl Beltran, marketing manager of Forever 21 said that based on their social media interactions with fans, many Ilonggos clamor for Forever 21. Indeed, Iloilo City is home to fashionable people and Beltran agrees. “Ilonggos know their style,” she shared her observation.

In fact, three of these style influencers shared their personal style with those who attended the pre-opening party. They were asked to pick out from an array of Forever 21 clothes and explain their choice to the crowd.

Fashion designer and entrepreneur Amanda Trenas opted for a clean and edgy look. I agree when she said that she focuses on the look and not really on the outfit.

Meanwhile, model and entrepreneur Quito Trenas selected a 90s piece from the display - a brown jacket paired with a distressed jumper. "You may wear it with just one strap, two straps, or none at all," he said, adding that he prefers the edgy and rugged look. Want to know where he gets his inspiration? “Music videos from the 90s up to now,” he said.

Another entrepreneur, Aimee Chu-Ong prefers feminine pieces with a dash of edge. A Forever 21 lover, one would often see her sporting a glam walk look using mostly skirt, she said. She would wear jeans but only with a unique top. "I like to have one statement piece in my wardrobe. I like to look for unique details in a piece and put contrast to it," she said.

Being petite has its challenges, Ong said but she knows exactly what to do. For example, jeans tend to be longer for her, so she folds the excess length. She also wears pointy nude-colored shoes to make her look taller. "Monochromatic and vertical lines work for petite individuals like me," she told the crowd.

Take it from these style influencers. You can look good if you are smart about your fashion choices. At Forever 21, there is always something for everyone./