A Lustrous Gathercole Grand Finale at LAFW A/W 2016

Excerpts of this article were submitted for print to F Magazine and Manila Up!

Los Angeles, CA – Gracing the bi-coastal fashion show “Art Hearts Fashion” for back-to-back Fashion Weeks in New York (in Feb) and Los Angeles (in Mar), Avant Garde Knight Rocky Gathercole once again staged an unrivalled and enchanting risque show.

In celebration of his 50^th natal year, Rocky’s 50-piece “Gold Collection” gilded the catwalk while Concert Soloist Matthew John’s live cello performance serenaded the models for the closing finale of the epic 4-day, 40-designer, Los Angeles Fashion Week A/W 2016 at Taglyan Complex, Los Angeles, California on March 17^th, 2016. My eyes feasted on each ensemble with lavish details including architectural headpieces that were both gaudy and fun, especially with the exaggerated golden Mickey ears; neck to toe embellished cut-out bodice, made famous by Nikki Minaj; overstated 3D corsets of mixed media, adorned by crystals, pearls and chain fringes; and many more must see accoutrement. It was a captivating live art exhibition, truly inimitable and “very Gathercole.”

If you failed to see Rocky’s showcase at LAFW2016 in California and with only tentative return to Arizona for Phoenix Fashion Week in Fall 2016, you wouldn’t want to miss Rocky Gathercole’s exclusive 20-garment trailblazing fashion inspired by the architecture of the museum itself, to be featured at the 4^th Annual Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Arts fundraiser gala, “SMoCA Mix: Fashionably Avant-Garde” on May 7^th, 2016. Sponsorship and tickets are still available at http://www.smoca.org/event/smoca-mix-2016/, secure your spot in this one night only “expect the unexpected” themed dynamic affair and get ready to luxuriate in haute couture, visual arts, live acts, fashionable hors d’oeuvre and mixed libations.

Photo credits Chris Loomis Photography
(www.chrisloomis.com)

Rocky Gathercole is internationally acclaimed and a go to for Hollywood A-listers.  For the Stars Fashion House, located in Los Angeles, holds most of Rocky's extravagant house couture and is accessible to stylists, editorial photographers and celebrities the likes of Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Nikki Minaj, Britney Spears and Jennifer Lopez to name a few. See Rocky's celebs on instagram: @VeryGathercole 

Too long to list the many exciting projects lined up for Rocky this year, allow me to reveal one covert affair, sshhh… After a successful collaboration with model/host Tyra Banks to design wearable art for the America’s Next Top Model Cycle 22 finale episode, wait for it…..wait for it….. Heidi Klum, already a Gathercole aficionado, also desired Rocky’s artistry for Germany’s Next Top Model.  Like ANTM last season, it will be a #VeryGathercole finale for GNTM Cycle 11 to be held, for the first time in 10 years, at an open- air venue in warmer weathered Spain according to ProSieben CEO Daniel Rosemann. While the airdate is not announced yet, and the exact location of the live finale cannot be divulged, I can tell you that Rocky and GNTM are scheduled for a photo shoot sometime in May. Remember, you heard it here first!

Stoked to be his guest at LAFW, Rocky and I leisurely indulged in small talks backstage.  Just how does Rocky manage to turn it up a notch time and time? Raising all glory and praise, Rocky pointed up to Him, and said to whom he owes his life, passion and talent.  He was also quick to acknowledge his behind the scene team of talents and collaborators, and appreciates “kayong mga totoong tao sa buhay ko,” to quote his own words. In all humility, never once did he bask in the limelight! Rather, his mind is absorbed by his desire to continue his personal wellness and enhance his relationships holistically - spiritual, emotional, mental and physical, especially on his 50^th natal year.

For one final round, he got up to field a few more media questions and at one point was asked how it felt to be on top of the world amidst a swanky circle. While it was nice to be recognized and rewarded, Rocky humbly claimed, “My work was never about fame and money!”

For your achievements and accolades, we say BRAVO! For your genuine heart and humility, we ADMIRE you. Mabuhay ka, Rocky Gathercole!

‘Til the next ish dolls. In the meantime, get your FASH on, keep styling and make a fashion scene! Hit me up online, visit and like “Chasing Sheila” on Facebook/Instagram/Twitter!

XOXO,
Sheila

SMoCA Mix: Fashionably Avant-Garde Gala - Dare To Be Seen!

PRESS RELEASE

(Scottsdale, AZ) - Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA) will present its 4^th annual benefit, SMoCA Mix: Fashionably Avant-Garde, on May 7, 2016. The highly anticipated event will showcase contemporary avant-garde fashions from exceptional local and international designers.

SMoCA will reinvent itself for the evening with all four galleries, SMoCA Lounge and the Museum entrance animated by live entertainment and a runway stretching throughout the entire Museum. The event features iconic garments seen in popular culture alongside original creations designed exclusively for the evening.

Los Angeles based fashion house For the Stars will present featured designers Rocky Gathercole, known for his provocative designs who will showcase a custom dress Katy Perry wore for her Super Bowl XLIX halftime show performance in Arizona along with 20 garments designed exclusively for SMoCA Mix inspired by the architecture of the Museum itself, and couture and evening wear designers Albert Andrada who recently designed the gown of Miss Philippines, Pia Wurtzbach, when she was crowned the 64^th Miss Universe, and Elie Madi whose detailed dresses are a favorite of celebrities including Carrie Underwood and actress Bai Ling.

Muse: Jill Evin
Fashion: Rocky Gathercole
Photography: Chris Loomis Photography (www.chrisloomis.com)

With the designer himself,
64th Miss Universe 2016 Pia Wurtzbach, wearing an Albert Andrada creation
Instagram photo by Albert Andrada

MNM Couture will present Fouad Sarkis with designs that inspire with intricate details, luxurious materials and rich colors who will be displaying a gown recently worn by Scottsdale-based Brazilian model Micheline Etkin to the 2016 Golden Globe Awards. 

Fashion: Fouad Sarkis Couture

Valley’s own couturier Galina Mihaleva will present her Galina Couture collection of custom gowns and performance art costumes that meld contemporary technology and high fashion.

SMoCA Mix 2016 co-chairs Tracy Serena and advisory board member Christian Serena bring a fresh perspective to the year’s event. “We’re thrilled to be the chairs of SMoCA Mix and to show a broad audience why the Museum is so unique and dynamic,” said Christian Serena. “The Fashionably Avant-Garde evening will truly be a one-of-a-kind event that the Valley has never experienced before!”

“SMoCA is a young, vibrant and essential part of the dynamic art scene in Arizona,” said SMoCA Director and Chief Curator Sara Cochran. “We do things differently. This event is part of that – extraordinary visual displays, astonishing performances and uncommon foods. Join us and be part of the fun!”

SMoCA Mix 2016 tickets are available at SMoCA.org. Sponsorship and table opportunities are available by contacting KimC@sccarts.org. Proceeds will support SMoCa's mission and programs.

Guests are encouraged to dress the theme in black-tie avant-garde and to enjoy the luxurious fashion, catered bites and signature libations in the energetic atmosphere. Following the signature SMoCA Mix theme of “expect the unexpected,” guests will encounter surprises around every corner, promising an unforgettable evening.

Below is a prelude photoshoot with fashions provided by For The Stars Fashion House, garments by internationally acclaimed avant-garde designer Rocky Gathercole and images captured by Arizona-based photographer Chris Loomis for Chris Loomis Photography.

Do Not Just Dress the Part, the BRAND Matters!

Irvine, CA – You read it right! Dressing the part does not cut it anymore, the brand - your PERSONAL BRAND that is, matters a whole lot more.

It is true that showing up physically and making a good first impression is key.  However, in a digitally dominated world, to make a great lasting impression, you have to have a solid understanding of who you are, know what values you create and offer, and be keenly mindful of the total experience of your interaction.

Ask yourself…

• Did you have a meaningful connection at work yesterday?
• How would your most recent Facebook post affect other people?
• Did your last call/text leave the other person better than before?
• What underlying message was implied in your latest Instagram selfie?
• Who had the final word in your last dialogue? Was it a put up or a put down?
• What would be memorable to your child from last night’s dinner conversations?  

Memories are emotionally charged; they are etched in people’s hearts and minds based on the emotions felt during and after connections. These impressions are important career-wise as an entrepreneur, a leader, or a colleague, and even more crucial in personal relationships as a parent, a partner, a child, or a friend.  Whether in person or online, one almost always leaves a lasting “signature” mark on others.  Do you know how other people feel after interacting with you? Do you know your personal brand?

What does Personal Brand really mean? 

For an expert answer, I turned to Emma Tiebens, brand marketing consultant and author of Amazon’s bestselling book, Magnetic Memorable and Trusted.  Emma defines, “In its simplest sense, Personal Brand is the feeling or opinion that people have of you after your interaction with them. You constantly exude your Personal Brand whether you know it or not.  If you fail to consciously create that brand, people will automatically create one for you.” Our personal brand dictates whether we will attract or repel important people and opportunities in our lives. We all want a magnetic personal brand thus it is critical that we influence it, build it and own it!

Much easier said than done, right? Let’s break it down…

First, START by being genuinely interested in others and fully engaged during the interaction; seize the moment!

On a daily basis, Emma helps clients who desire more purpose and meaning in their lives, to identify their magnetic brand stories. Emma narrates, “The number one secret to having a ‘Magnetic Personal Brand’ is simple – show authentic desire to get to know others first.  Make them feel important and for that brief interface, make them feel like they are the most important person in the world!  How do you do that? By showing them sincere interest through an acronym I created, S.M.I.L.E. which is not just for an in-person interaction but is also highly effective online.

         S – Show Genuine Interest

         M – Make Eye Contact

         I – Introduce Yourself First

         L- Laugh and Be Silly

         E – Engage Fully

Often times, once people really know that you care, they will feel a sense of returning the favor by asking you how they too can support you.  It is very important to have a Personal Brand especially if you have plans of stepping-out in a big way in your life and career - if you’re wanting to meet the man or woman of your dreams, or if you’re seeking a promotion at work, attracting more clients for your business, creating a following of loyal advocates or elevating your position for potential collaborators and investors.” 

Second, this requires self-reflection, FOLLOW THRU by confidently opening up about your self, your brand. You want to be connected and remembered, not because of how you look or who you wear, but because your story matters.  In Emma Tieben’s free eBook (available at www.emmatiebens.com) called “Unleash Your BRAND STORY,” she crafted a 6-pillar guide to reveal, create and, with poise, communicate your personal brand story. 

Here is a quick cliff note version…

Go inward for the first 3 pillars:

(1) HEART Brand - what do you love; what are your passions and interests?

(2) MIND Brand - what do you know; what’s your expertise or your mastery?

(3) SPIRIT Brand - why do you do what you do; what difference do you want to make in the lives of others?

Build outward for the last 3 pillars:

(4) SUCCESS Brand - have you helped others; what contributions and transformations have you created?

(5) INLFUENCE Brand - who have you associated with and vice versa?  Your network is your net worth.  You become who you surround yourself with so be selective.

(6) PLATFORM Brand - when people do a search about you, personally or professionally, what kind of images, videos, testimonials, articles etc. would they see about you? What is your tag line? When you present yourself in person…and this is when you want to dress the part, what collateral do you leave others with, i.e. business card, brochures, correspondence, etc.

Bottom line is, do not be someone that you are not. By being honest about yourself and truly interested and engaged in your interactions, you can effectively create a magnetic and reciprocal relationship. Accept who you are and know that your story matters! Build a true personal brand by loving yourself, loving others and loving what you do.

Personal brand creation is not a sprint, it is an on going development, much like a marathon.  Let us continuously self-reflect, evolve and grow deeper into our purpose.  And remember our personal brand magnets are always turned on and that there are two sides, the one that attracts and the other that repels. Do you know which side of yours is stronger? Let’s connect online, visit, LIKE and message “Chasing Sheila” on Facebook/Twitter/Instagram!

Shout out to brand coach Emma Tiebens, selected as one of only 6 speakers in the inaugural 2-day “Women of Wealth and Abundance” event to be held in Singapore on March 12-13, 2016.  Emma will be sharing the stage with Facebook’s former Marketing Director, Randi Zuckerberg, Top TED Speakers and other global movement makers.  Thank you for sharing your expertise and best wishes on your speaking engagement!

‘Til the next ish dolls. In the meantime, get your FASH on, keep styling and make a fashion scene!


XOXO,
Sheila

Fantasy Bow Tie… A Million Dollar Dream Come True!

Hollywood, CA – World traveler, published author, horticulturist, philanthropist and international fashion designer, John Ablaza, successfully launched his Bow Tie Couture Collection at the Celebrity Theatre International on 28^th of November 2015. 

The Dream…

It has been John’s long time aspiration for his humble bow ties, impeccably hand crafted by the Mangyan tribal women from Mindoro, Philippines, to have a touch of luxury… diamonds perhaps.

The Launch…

John’s dream came true, with the help of Emma Tiebens, and made possible in collaboration with equally talented designer/jeweler, Jules Barba, Founder and President of JB Diamonds & Fine Jewelry, Inc. in Newport Beach, CA. 

Fantasy Bow Tie final quality check by John Ablaza and Jules Barba
Photo credits Desert Rh1no Photography

Fantasy Bow Tie collaborators, John Ablaza and Jules Barba
Photo credits Desert Rh1no Photography

Admiring the stunning Fantasy Bow Tie up close and personal
Photo credits Desert Rh1no Photography

L-R: Sheila Vertuno, John Ablaza and Jules Barba
Photo credits Desert Rh1no Photography

A top secret mission, known only to a handful of accomplices, I was thrilled (and nervous, not to make a mistake) when John asked me to go live during the fashion show finale and announce the unveiling of the million-dollar Fantasy Bow Tie donned by Filipino-Swedish Bow Tie Couture Signature Model, Devon Spence. 

Fantasy Bow Tie donned by Devon Spence

The unveiling of the Fantasy Bow Tie with 
John Ablaza (center) and models, Devon Spence and Sheila Vertuno

By the numbers:

7450 – Air miles travelled by the bow tie from Mindoro, Philippines to Newport Beach, CA to Hollywood, CA.

446 – Number of bleached coco beads hand-stitched on the bow tie.

20.9 – Carat Total Weight (ctw) or combined total weight in carats of all the diamonds in the bow tie.

19 – Number of 0.5 Carat Weight (ct) round brilliant GIA certified color D internally flawless triple excellent diamonds encrusted on the bow tie.

11.44 – Carat Weight (ct) of the round brilliant GIA certified color H internally flawless triple excellent diamond at the center of the bow tie.

10 – Total number of hours to make the bow tie; 3 hours to embroider the coco beads (not including manual labor to prepare the materials) and 7 hours to set the diamonds.

5 – Number of people discreetly involved in the Fantasy Bow Tie covert operation. Devon was the 6^th to know when he wore it.

1.3 – The amount in million dollars, which the bow tie is worth. Again I say, the Fantasy Bow Tie costs $1,300,000.00!!!

It was a crisp sundown filled with anticipation… upfront, the guests walked across the red carpet frequently facing the spotlights posing for nonstop camera snaps while backstage, the models got styled in dressing tents and bundled close to the heater to stay warm.

Manny Pacquiao Foundation VIPs red carpet reception (L-R): Kevin Samejon, Leonard Espra, Lilia Lao, MJ Racadio and Ryn Canolo. 

VIP red carpet reception (L-R): Erlina Dioquino, Emma Tiebens (Bestselling Author and Show Host), Marc Anthony Nicholas (Producer of CBS "The Talk”), Elena Lapid-Salonga (Lapid Foods, Inc.), Dr. Tess Mauricio (M Beauty Clinic), Hannah Joya (Miss San Diego North County) and guest star Lisa

Christine Love and Andy Z. Edralin

Past the media wall, the limited edition Bow Tie silent auction and sumptuous hors d'oeuvres were spaciously set up, conducive for guests to bid/shop, meet and greet familiar faces. 

Intimately attended by VIPs and friends, the program commenced promptly with Christina Love’s knock out rendition of (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman and The Sound of Music medley, followed by the “Manny Pacquiao Foundation” all-action live auction of signed PacMan collectibles including a pair of gloves, boxing shorts, training shoes, etc. 

Special performance by Christine Love

Special performance by Christine Love

And for the much-awaited segment, a life-story video presentation introduced John Ablaza, queuing the fashion show and officially launching the Bow Tie Couture Collection.  Mainly highlighting the neckwear, the models sported an un-contoured look, pale lips and lightened brows, and paced in long subdued cyclical runway sequence, with movements intended only to draw attention to the bow ties, leading to the jaw-dropping Fantasy Bow Tie for the finale.

    

Bow Tie Couture Signature Model, Devon Spence

Opening number by Devon Spence

John Ablaza’s Bow Tie Couture was launched in cooperation with the Manny Pacquiao Foundation.

Sponsors: Jules Barba of JB Diamonds & Fine Jewelry, Inc.; Jush Andowitt of GMA News/Life/Pinoy TV; Dr. Tess Mauricio of M Beauty by Dr. Tess; John Pham of MODXchange.com; Norberto "Jojo" Reyes and Mildred Deang of Bb. Pilipinas USA; Nonie Bellarmino of iDance Studio; Gloria Uy of Eriel's Cafe; and MJ Racadio of BlogTalk with MJ Racadio (Publicist/Media Relations Manager).

Acknowledgements: Jade Pearl Tan & Fermin Alberto, Hair & Make-up; Edward Candido, Wardrobe Manager; Cristina Rosel, Catering; Alex Tupaz, Alex Tupaz Photography; Jhenny Evans, Jhenny Evans Photography; Jophel Morales, Jophel Morales Photography; Cesar Moscoso, Sound Mix; Mary Antoinette Ceniza, VIP/Guest Relations Manager and Production Assistant; and Sheila Vertuno aka Chasing Sheila – Fashion Show Director and Stage Manager.

And as expected, the party continues back at the red carpet!

The Legacy…

Mindful of the true reason for this defining moment, John Ablaza Couture is not only known for glamour and fashion as he designs for the society matrons and celebrities in the Philippines all the way to the royalties of Middle East. The brand is also admired for its advocacy to protect the environment and help preserve Mother Nature’s bounty.

John is highly inspired by the native environment that surrounds him and all the beautiful things nature has to offer. His fascinating designs incorporate earth-friendly and organic elements such as coconut shells, wood beads, plant seeds, tree barks, reed grass fibers, sea shells and many more.

Expanding his vision from eco-conscious fashion to creating a sustainable livelihood for his “kababayans,” John collaborated with the grand matriarch of the Ayala clan in the Philippines, Dna. Bea Zobel Ayala who championed the Iraya-Mangyan Project. Committed to educate and train the indigenous community of Puerto Galera Oriental Mindoro Philippines, John dedicated his time to mentor the tribal women and local artisans to hone their beading and embroidering techniques utilizing natural materials.

With locally sourced and manually processed organic substance, each and every piece of John Ablaza Couture, including the Bow Ties, is delicately handmade and embellished by the Mangyans, with a mission and promise to continue to bring them more work and improve their welfare. While the designer gowns are bespoke pieces for evening wear and red carpet events, John launched his Bow Ties as lifestyle accessories to create and sustain the Mangyan livelihood program.  Help support this worthy cause and advocacy by visiting the www.JohnAblazaCouture.com and use limited time exclusive promo code “ChasingSheila10” at checkout to get 10% OFF of already reduced Bow Tie prices. Ideal stocking stuffer for the holidays, it’s a gift that gives!

Here's a clip about the Bow Tie Couture's humble journey...

The Work Continues…

It has been a rewarding year for John Ablaza, with his brand and advocacy continuing to grow recognition and patronage.  John’s work-life balance takes him back to the Philippines for a few days of holiday bash with his family, alongside business and production meetings.  With notable accomplishments, John is inspired to do even more…

May 2015 - John Ablaza’s “Couture & Culture” U.S. tour debut at the Phoenix Art Museum in Phoenix AZ.

June 2015 - “Jose Rizal Travelling Museum by John Ablaza” at the Saguaro Hotel in Scottsdale AZ. Chosen by the National Centennial Commission in 1998, John was appointed to recreate a replica of the wardrobe of Jose Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines, in conjunction with the 100^th year celebration of Philippine Independence. 

July 2015 – “Couture & Culture Gala Fashion Show” and “Jose Rizal Travelling Museum by John Ablaza” with Ryan Cayabyab’s Noli Me Tangere – The Musical presented by Teatro Pilipino USA at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts in Cerritos, CA.

November 2015 – “Rizaliana Collection” by John Ablaza presented by the Philippine International Aid, in partnership with Western Union and Philippine Airlines at the Hyatt Regency in San Francisco, Ca.

November 2015 – “Bow Tie Couture Collection” official launch event at the Celebrity Theatre International in Hollywood, CA.

March 2016 – U.S. west coast event to be announced (TBA)

April 2016 – U.S. east coast events TBA

May 2016 – Canada events TBA

Summer 2016 – Western Europe events TBA

Fall 2016 – Asia events TBA

Definitely more eco-couture to look forward to! What are your fashion fantasies for 2016? Let’s connect online, send me a message or tweet me at  “Chasing Sheila” on Facebook/Twitter/Instagram/Pinterest

‘Til the next ish dolls. In the meantime, get your FASH on, keep styling and make a fashion scene!

Photo credits: Jhenny Evans Photography, Desert Rh1no Photography and Oliver Carnay

XOXO,
Sheila