I still cannot consider myself as a stylist. I might know how to style myself but styling other people might be a bit difficult for me. And if they insisted, I sometimes have the tendency to apply what looks good on me rather than what suits my subject.
A few days ago I was invited by Tutuban Towncenter to join in a styling challenge. The task, to shop clothes at Tutuban Divisoria Night Market with a budget of 1,000 pesos for a complete outfit to be worn by our assigned model. Did I win? Find out and continue reading.
The Fashion Challenge
Tutuban Divisoria Night Market is a regular thing here in Divisoria. But as the “ber months” enter the night market becomes more special that nearing the end of the year, stores operate 24/7. In those days, crowd here would be a bit crazy. (How to go to Divisoria?)
At first I thought the challenge would be done inside the mall and we’ll just style ourselves. But it was a shock to find out things I didn’t expected, from the budget, to the time limit up to the instant stage and short program outside the mall are just some of the surprises. We were even asked to speak and introduce ourselves in front of a hundred or more people. Well It actually makes it more challenging (and exciting too!).
Going back to the challenge, after having our snack at Orion.Cafe, we were then asked to pick our models though draw-lots.
Dinner at #OrionCafe #fashionchallenge #tutubannightmarket
Antonio Kwong was assigned to me. He is the reigning Tutuban Town Center Faces of Summer champion. 
He was shorter than me by two or three inches (I think 5’7), with fair complexion, and stocky built. Far way different from me so I guess my styling capability now will be putted into test. 
The challenge: To do casual wear style for Antonio with a budget of Php 1000 in 30 minutes.
This was my first time to do styling, so I was a bit nervous on what will be the outcome. My first idea was to go with the jogger pants but it was the style he wore already so I thought maybe I should give him something different plus I have this feeling that everyone will be styling towards that. So I decided to start by picking a moss green shorts. My idea was to give him a casual mall attire. 
We rounded the whole place and finally bought, a moss green walking short (Php 250), brown belt (80), Panama Hat (80), Yellow Polo Shirt (Php 280) and a sweater (Php 150) for a total of Php 840. I was planning to buy a shoes or slippers but we havent got enough time to do it. 
The final look looks alright, but i wasn’t happy with the result. I think I did something that I am afraid in the first place would happen, that is to apply a style that I usually wear for myself. It was actually even notice by Joel (from AMRP) that I was the only one who putted clothes I usually wear. 
After the short fashion show and presentation at the stage, the winner was then declared and Japet won the challenge. Congrats Japet! Here is his model. 
It was a fun event. I realize that for an amount of Php 1000, I can already buy a complete outfit from head to foot. I would definitely be back here soon. To those who are planning to visit, Tutuban Divisoria Night Market is open every night and will operate 24/7 nearing the end of the year. Here’s a tip, learn the art of haggling you might even get an item half the price!
If you are looking for the best bargains in Manila, Divisoria is for you. Just be mindful of your belongings and don’t wear fancy jewelry while you’re there.
