Editor's note:
“What We Wore” is a section in Style Weekend's pages in The Manila Bulletin. It spotlights our readers' looks, detailing their stories as they layer, pair, and accessorize one piece after another. If you want us to feature your unique sense of style, post a photo of your look on social media and use the hashtags #StyleWeekend and #SWWhatWeWore. Make sure to tag us @styleweekend.ph on Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok. We can’t wait to see your looks!
![ocelot.jpg](https://images.mb.com.ph/production/ocelot_32810a7c8b.jpg)
I go for 'fits that are comfortable enough for me to move. I’m a movement artist so going for streetwear and baggy clothes with a touch of formality is practical and resonates with my persona. My #StyleWeekend always starts with a few questions: What energy are we going for today? What story are we telling? Are we off to a dance class? Are we closing a deal? Am I going out on a date? Am I just going to be pretty? My ’fits revolve around these.—Ocelot De La Blanca
![zelle.jpg](https://images.mb.com.ph/production/zelle_15e3cd118a.jpg)
For a full-figured girl like me, my style is a statement. I show skin when I'm told to cover up. I flaunt my curves even when I'm told they are not attractive. I do not hide away my body under layers of fabric. I always show up sweet and spicy with lots of juiciness and elegance. My style consists of neutral-colored activewear and I accessorize with lots of gold and statement pieces. You'll almost always find me in a sexy black outfit but there will always be a pop of sassy pink to show a hint of my personality. My #StyleWeekend begins with a trip to Ongpin Street for my favorite bicho-bicho bites for breakfast. I then, head over to First United at Escolta Street where my House of De la Blanca Familia trains for runway and voguing at the We Are Shapeshifters Studio. To end the day perfectly with my fam, we always get our favorite peanut noodles and dumplings over at Dasmarinas Street.—Zelle Valenzuela
![ciara.jpg](https://images.mb.com.ph/production/ciara_64f3e62e59.jpg)
I’m a go-getter by nature so I dress up like I’m always ready to hop on that adventure of a lifetime, even if I’m just actually heading out for coffee. I like my style to be about my interconnection with Momma Earth despite being in the city, so a thrift “hubadera” tube top to showcase my morena skin and Uniqlo cargo pants in my fave shade of green are my wardrobe essentials. Pair these with either comfy slip-on sandals or my favorite pair of hiking boots and I’m ready to go! My #StyleWeekend begins with a quality me-time morning, which involves a warm cup of lemon tea or coffee (depending on my mood), some sky gazing out the window, and muni-muni (reflections). As I prepare for my day, I try to take extra time in front of my mirror to look at myself after a full week of hustle and bustle as I often travel in and out of Manila. My weekends are always holy as I get to celebrate it with what matters—myself, my community, and my family.—Ciara Venezia
![kris.jpg](https://images.mb.com.ph/production/kris_ea2d8b84a9.jpg)
The bows are made by yours truly to add a demure touch. I sewed them onto a backless white crop top and onto my jeans to create a bold combination of playful and edgy elements, while the platform boots add a “time to slay the night” vibe. My personal style is all about mixing unexpected elements to create something unique and eye-catching without overdoing it. Designer or not, I’m ready to make the whole day a runway, as long as I’m happy and confident in what I’m wearing. My #StyleWeekend starts with scouting for new and creative fashion pieces that reflect my personality. It involves immersing myself in art and culture, as well as discovering the latest trends in fashion. I take styling to another level when I’m in the mood, whether I’m just going to the grocery store or a night out with friends. Throughout the week, I balance my time between my creative work as a multimedia art student and expressing my individuality through fashion, always making sure that every outfit tells a story and feels like a work of art.—Kris Ares
I’m wearing a fabric necklace from a thrift shop and a handcrafted brass bangle and ring by Kayumanggi Earth Krafts, this gorgeous dress in the customary Ifugao colors red, black, and white is made by Arlene’s Dress Shop. The design is inspired by the bahag, the traditional loin cloth worn by the men from the Cordilleras region. My #StyleWeekend involves hosting gigs, art workshops for kids, rural uprisings, and a lot of music and dancing. As a progressive woman and educator, I intentionally doll up and flaunt my tattoos to uplift authenticity, communicate my love of expression, promote local, and encourage sustainability. I want to model to my students that in a society that often encourages conformity, expressing ourselves through fashion becomes an act of liberation.—Teacher Cel
If you want us to feature your unique sense of style, post a photo of your look on social media and use the hashtags #StyleWeekend and #SWWhatWeWore. Make sure to tag us @styleweekend.ph on Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok. We can’t wait to see your looks!