Fashion style is an extension of self-expression, but for budding artist Kenaniah Lambio, the teenage singer-musician behind the hit songs “Bahala Na” and “Hanggang sa Buwan" (“The Rain in España” official soundtrack), his looks also affect his artistry.
“As an artist, I express myself through music by writing songs and performing on stage,” he says in Filipino. “But styling also affects my self-expression. Mahirap mag-express ng sarili kapag hindi mo gusto ang look mo or ang outfit mo (It’s hard to express yourself if you don’t like your look and your outfit).”
Kenaniah is among the newest artists under Kean Cipriano’s OC Record. With his achievement as a self-made artist and good look, he is tapped to join Seth Fedelin and Althea Ablan as the newest brand ambassador of local clothing brand, BNY.
“When my manager Kean informed me, I was delighted because it would be my first endorsement as an artist,” he says. “On top of that, I’m seeing my personal style with BNY.”
When asked about his fashion inspirations, Kenaniah tells Manila Bulletin Lifestyle that he looks up to his musical icons, including the American pop-rock band Lany and the English pop-rock band, 1975.
“My style is very minimalist. I always opt to go with black or white. With these colors, you won’t have a hard time thinking if it will fit together. That is why it’s my go-to piece,” he says. “My favorite piece from the brand is its black corduroy.”
But with his young age, Kenaniah continuously explores new styles that suit him as he navigates to his newfound career and fame. He then encourages young people like him not to be afraid to explore and express themselves.
“Be you. Hindi mo kailangang isipin kung ano ang sasabihin ng iba basta ginawa mo yun para sa sarili mo (You don’t need to listen to what other people are saying, as long as you’re doing things for yourself),” he says. “For now, my goal is to express myself through music and fashion and share it with everyone.”