Woman of Style: Phoemela Baranda's offscreen life and love (of high heels)
MANILA, Philippines - Without makeup, dressed in a crop top and denim cut-offs, hair wet and uncombed, it is still painfully apparent that Phoemela Baranda is leagues better-looking than most of us after hours of grooming. The model-turned-TV host, who parlayed her charismatic good looks into a regular stint on two major network shows, is getting ready for the STAR shoot in her Salcedo apartment.
“I’m in between places right now,” she says, apologizing for her then-sparsely furnished apartment. Phem had just moved into the new space and, thanks to a schedule jam-packed with appointments, hasn’t had time to anoint her digs with the kind of furniture she prefers.
A closet in the living room stores shoes (the higher, the better — “Though they have to be comfy,” Phem says) while a second bedroom serves as storage for her clothing and accessories. At the moment, she loves to purchase stuff online, like from the Multiply sites of model Valerie de los Santos (streetbeatboutique.multiply.com) and stylist Jenni Epperson (cuteture. multiply.com).
STAR sat down with Phem to talk about the tough issues — like industry gossip and plastic surgery (mainly, whether she’d do it again).
THE PHILIPPINE STAR: How were you discovered as a model?
Phoemela Baranda: When I was 13 I joined the Soda Club 7. I was really interested in the modeling world. At the time, their image models were Eric Quizon and Tweetie de Leon. I remember begging my mom to allow me to attend the audition. Luckily I got in, along with (models) Wendell Ramos, Grace Tagle, etc. In one of our fashion shows, a talent agent spotted me and asked me to do a VTR for a skincare product. I got the lead part for that commercial and after that, projects came in. I did a lot of TVCs and print ads. After a few years I went international, doing commercials around Asia.
Why did you want to transition to show business?
(Sometime in) 2004 I heard that Extra Challenge was looking for a new host to replace Miriam Quiambao because she was leaving the show to get married. I auditioned but I had to go through a lot of challenges along with Reema Chanco, Ethel Booba, Joanna Peñalosa and two other girls. I won the challenges and became the co-host of Paolo Bediones. I was able to build my hosting skills through that show and it really gave me a chance to recreate myself from model to host.
What’s the best thing about your job?
I get exposed to different kinds of people and environments. I get to know a lot of things firsthand and give the information to the people.
The worst?
I can’t avoid gossip and since I’m a public figure it gets magnified. But it’s okay because I learned how to accept those things and learned how to handle it.
There’s been plenty of talk about the whole Ruffa-Kris controversy. Whose side are you on?
I can’t and don’t want to take sides. Ruffa is my friend and I’ve been working with Kris for five years already and I know they have different points. Now the issue is over and they’ve both moved on and I’m happy for them.
What’s your advice for Kris now that she’s facing public censure thanks to the whole Ruffa episode?
No comment.
You’ve had some plastic surgery done. What was the reasoning behind getting work done?
It’s something that I thought about for years and since I’m on TV every day I really have to look good — and I think I needed that. I’m happy now because I’m more proportioned.
Do you still want more?
No, I don’t think so. I’m happy already.
What’s been the highlight of your career so far?
I’m very happy now in ABS. I have two regular shows: TV Patrol and The Buzz. And I’m really happy about being the endorser of Get Laud and Belo Medical Group.
What’s next on your to-do list, career-wise?
I really want to have my own reality show and lifestyle show. I need to work harder and develop my hosting skills.
What gives you a sense of fulfillment?
Being happy with what I have and not thinking of what I can’t have. When I do good in my work — let’s say an interview or a photo shoot — I really feel happy and fulfilled.
What’s your idea of a perfect pair of shoes?
High heels that are super-sexy and comfortable!
What is your favorite recent purchase?
My BlackBerry! Can’t live without it.
Whose closet would you most like to raid?
Tina Maristela-Ocampo’s. She really has good taste and style.
What three pieces define your everyday style?
Sexy short dresses, elegant accessories and comfortable high heels.
Your best shopping secret?
I go to Get Laud, The Ramp at Crossings, SM and bazaars.
What do you most like to spend your money on?
I just invest in designer bags and shoes that I can use for a long time, like an LV Keepall and strappy designer shoes.
Is there an item in your closet you cherish the most?
Now it’s a Rosanna Ocampo dress because it was a gift from someone special.
What do you regret buying the most?
So far none, because I don’t buy or invest in anything that I don’t like.
Do you have any fundamental rules of dressing?
Keep it simple. I always consider what looks good on me and I have to be comfortable. Of course, I always update my wardrobe with the season’s trends, but still incorporate my own style.
What was your style as a kid?
I’m an ’80s kid. I remember wearing hanging shirts with my shorts or pants with slouched socks and high-cut sneakers. I’m very lucky that I got exposed to the fashion world at a very young age and that my style and fashion sense was influenced by the best designers and top models like Apples Aberin. Now, I go for something that really complements my look and incorporate it with whatever is trendy.
Most unforgettable present you’ve received?
A piano from my dad when I was seven years old.
Most outrageous purchase?
My Prada buffalo pink clutch bag. The price was too much for such a small bag!
If your life was made into a movie, who do you think should play you?
I love Gwyneth Paltrow!
What would you never be caught dead in?
Sweatpants!
