Step into our May cover babe’s fun, whimsical and ridiculous party for one
The sartorial interpretation of “Treat Yo Self” could have taken us in several different directions. On one end, a free pass to go haywire over maximalism or douse our cover star in explosions of print or color. On the other, a chance to unabashedly indulge in the finer things or play dress-up in designer (no matter how momentary the high of living like some part of the one percent for a day would be).
With Billie and Emma star Gabby Padilla fronting our May 2019 feature, there was a lot about the Parks and Rec-inspired mantra to refine and redefine. In the world of the 25-year-old actress anyway, who’s big on exercising mindfulness when it comes to what she lets into her space and her life, “treat yo self” is a culture that’s less about the fluff but doesn’t necessarily suggest withholding any of the fun.
This meant that our imagination was allowed to run away from us for a hot second (complete with Mercedes Iman Diamond’s parodied brand of opulence for those who tune into Drag Race), later reined in and spun into something more practical.
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Ahead, our idea of a party for one with just the party looks to go with it. Consider it an exercise in excess in moderation, too, featuring the bright up-and-comer to best pay attention to if you know what’s good for you.
A Helping of Mixed Greens
Mint green meets pistachio
Mix and match different shades of the same color; it’s an easy way to disrupt a streak of monochromatic looks without venturing far off into unfamiliar territory. Wearing yellows with yellows, blues with blues or, in Gabby’s case, greens with greens is a subtler approach to color-blocking, too.
Green cropped tube top, HANAMI MANILA, green floral printed silk slip, TOPSHOP, statement cocktail ring, AC +632, blue green suede heel, CHARLES & KEITH
Here for the Single Earring Trend
And putting the “statement” in statement earring
It’s the mismatched earring trend nudged further (forward or backward; who could tell, really?). Leave one ear bare and the other accessorized and free yourself from the need to lean into symmetry. The key to pulling off this unconventional trend is to select one truly eye-catching piece that still flatters your face shape.
Blush ruffled top, HANAMI MANILA, white trousers, TOPSHOP, The Vermeer Shadow earring, THE FORE X PRANCA, basket bag, LOEWE
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Dressed Up, Dressed Down and Polished
Pair a cotton long-sleeve shirt with a sequined dress to strike a balance
Lovers of the t-shirt-and-a-slip-dress combo can take this up next. Granted it’s a lot of look in one go (a little more liberal with the flounce, silhouette and embellishments), this is the kind of styling that's meant to turn a few heads anyway.
White button-down polo, HA.MU, navy sequined dress, ECLIPSE, crystal chandelier earrings, FOREVER 21
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In real life, does “more is more” in fact mean better? Our May cover babe Gabby Padilla does some self-introspection to stay in check. Read more about how she pulls it all off here.
Featured Photos Wilmark Jolindon
Art and Art Direction Alexandra Lara
Fashion Direction and Styling Nicole Blanco Ramos
Beauty Direction Cessi Treñas
Makeup Sylvina Lopez
Hair Mong Amado
Shot on Location at Chroma Studio
