My mom sent me a link weeks ago in Facebook about Moda Plus' plus size model search. Intrigued, I clicked on it and saw a lot of big, beautiful women, trying their luck to be the next brand ambassador. I chanced upon Ruiza, the second placer out of more than 80 women who joined, after garnerning over 1700 'likes'. Coincidentally, I was looking for the next girl to feature for 'She Puts the UMP in PLUMP'. I added and messaged her, scanned her photos, and found out that she is perfectly fitting to be our next plump feature. CHECK HER OUT!
Who is your style icon?
No one in particular. I enjoy reading magazines. I buy 1 or 2 every month and that is where the fashion inspiration comes from. I also observe Singapore’s street style and just say, “that looks great! I’ll try that look in the coming days too!” But if there’ll be a specific celebrity it would be Charlene Gonzales-Muhlach or Leighton Meester from Gossip Girl.
Favorite store/s?
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It’s a huge help that I worked in Singapore too! I learned to express myself even more, because I can take the train, bus or commute without getting strange looks from people and often, there are strangers who sometimes come to tell me that I look great or they love a piece (shoes, earrings, skirt) that I’m wearing, then ask me where I bought them, so it makes me feel good that there are people who love my choices [of clothing]. I discovered blogs and joined communities for plus size women which not only sells clothes, but does group dancing classes, pageants, modeling and personality development. The goal basically is to inspire one another.
How important are other people’s perception of you to you?
I think, no matter what size we are, we have experienced and heard unpleasant things from other people. I am no exception to this, being plump since I was a kid and growing up, I used to get a lot of “Maganda ka, pero mas maganda kung papayat ka” comments but I was never the sensitive type of person. I just smile, maybe that’s my defense mechanism and I focus on the “Maganda ka” part. I am the love-me-or-hate-me-it-really-doesn't-bother-me kind of person. I’ve long accepted that you can’t please everyone. You just have to feel beautiful and smart, and when you feel so, other people will see you that way, too!
Favorite store/s?
New Look, Bysi, H&M, Cotton On, Mango, SM Department Stores
Favorite pieces of clothing to wear?
Favorite pieces of clothing to wear?
I am all about skirts and dresses, worn with comfy pair of open toes (heels or sandals) They make me feel all girly!
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How do you want people to see your style?
I don’t follow a specific style. But if I would have to pick an adjective it would be “CHIC AND POLISHED.” I want to wear something that is appropriate enough to take from office to mall / bar gig / dinner with friends / night out. I adore clothes that come with layers or ruffles. I love accessorizing too because it dolls up any simple outfit. I love bangles, chunky belts or layered necklaces; they add extra oomph and color.
I don’t follow a specific style. But if I would have to pick an adjective it would be “CHIC AND POLISHED.” I want to wear something that is appropriate enough to take from office to mall / bar gig / dinner with friends / night out. I adore clothes that come with layers or ruffles. I love accessorizing too because it dolls up any simple outfit. I love bangles, chunky belts or layered necklaces; they add extra oomph and color.
Where do you get your confidence from?
Everywhere! Generally I think it also comes from within, because I know for myself that I have other things to offer, I don’t dwell on the negatives and I keep improving and appreciating all the positives. I have a gratitude journal which I sometimes update and read often that reminds me of all the good things I have--blessings and talents. Thank you for this extra fat, it gave me more curves, bust and hips. I’m lucky enough as well to be around people (siblings and friends) who give compliments generously and constructive criticism.It’s a huge help that I worked in Singapore too! I learned to express myself even more, because I can take the train, bus or commute without getting strange looks from people and often, there are strangers who sometimes come to tell me that I look great or they love a piece (shoes, earrings, skirt) that I’m wearing, then ask me where I bought them, so it makes me feel good that there are people who love my choices [of clothing]. I discovered blogs and joined communities for plus size women which not only sells clothes, but does group dancing classes, pageants, modeling and personality development. The goal basically is to inspire one another.
How important are other people’s perception of you to you?
I think, no matter what size we are, we have experienced and heard unpleasant things from other people. I am no exception to this, being plump since I was a kid and growing up, I used to get a lot of “Maganda ka, pero mas maganda kung papayat ka” comments but I was never the sensitive type of person. I just smile, maybe that’s my defense mechanism and I focus on the “Maganda ka” part. I am the love-me-or-hate-me-it-really-doesn't-bother-me kind of person. I’ve long accepted that you can’t please everyone. You just have to feel beautiful and smart, and when you feel so, other people will see you that way, too!
Awesome answers. I think I'll start writing a gratitude journal too. It's a brilliant instant pick-me upper. Thanks, Ruiza. :)
Plump ♥,
Danah