I’ve never really been the girly girl. Obviously. I like sleek blacks over blooming florals, and I naturally lean more towards meticulously tailored lines as opposed to liberated ruffles and flounce. Menswear holds a very tight grip in my wardrobe and I oftentimes wonder if this affinity for looking dapper grew out of acquired taste, or out of the realization that a lady cocktailed with a dash of garçon makes for a more powerful mix. Or it could be also that I’m just trying to emulate the closest inspiration for strength — my dad. I take after my dad more when it comes to being practical and analytical, as well as being headstrong and temperamental. My artistic nuances — all from his gene pool. We are in our own ways — like it or not — our father’s daughters and with that said, it’s not surprising that I love my own — kind, I mean. Feminine women with masculine sartorial leanings. There’s just something infinitely chic about the irony of it. So in honor of Father’s Day, here are four women expressing their style polarity with their dad’s — style tips, life lessons and all.
Tailored sophisticate
Eloise Alba, managing editor
How has your dad influenced your style?
My dad has had a noteworthy impact on my style. Growing up, I remember he would give away items that were no longer of use to him and I would take them. I realized my love for masculine pieces through these looted hand-me-downs and until this day, I continue to ransack my dad’s closet.
What is the best thing about masculine/feminine dressing?
The best thing about it is that you don’t assume a role. You get the best of both worlds, so to speak.
What is the one thing that your dad taught you that made who are today?
To learn from living.
What lesson have you learned now that you and your dad didn’t agree on when you were younger?
I was obedient as a child so I always agreed with what my parents told me.
What is your favorite stylish hand-me-down?
A mahogany satchel from Coach. My dad brought it to work every day.
Beautiful androgyny
Jo Ann Bitagcol, photographer, model
How has your dad influenced your style?
Tatay had a lot of white Hanes tees and he would wear them elegantly, whether at home or under a barong. He likes leather shoes as well in brown and tan, particularly. He cleans them himself too! Very classic, old school. I think I’m just the girl version of him.
What is the best thing about masculine/feminine dressing?
Its understated, very comfortable and I can move around.
What trait from your dad do you most identify with?
We’re both particular with clothes and we like to clean and organize our workplace and surroundings. And, pareho kameng mainit ang ulo pag gutom! Haha!
Your favorite memory with him?
Not a memory but more of what he is now. Tatay kisses me whenever I visit them in Bulacan; it’s a big deal for me because he is more comfortable with expressing himself now.
What have you done to make your dad proud?
I don’t know, but I’m pretty sure that he’s happy there’s a girl version of him.
Pretty tomboy
Meryll Chavez, marketing manager/ freelance stylist
How has your dad influenced your style?
It’s actually the other way around. I sometimes shop for him and pick his clothes. There are times when he’d ask me what to wear, what belt to use, or if his shirt looks nice.
What is the best thing about masculine/feminine dressing?
The best thing about masculine/feminine dressing is that it is no-fuss dressing, which I love. You just need quality/classic pieces to pull off the look. It pushes you to be creative but minimal, fashionably fluent in a subtle way.
What trait from your dad do you most identify with?
I’d have to say being an ambivert or being both an introvert and an extrovert. I can be sociable and at times, be half a recluse.
How much do you think did your dad make you the woman you are now?
My dad is my hero. I’d say of 50 percent of who I am now, my dad is responsible for it. 30 goes to my mom, 20 to my friends.
What is your most favorite stylish hand-me-down?
My favorite stylish hand-me-down is an overnight bag that sort of looks like a doctor’s bag. Men’s bags have a special place in my heart.
Borrowed from the boys
Penny Ngu, retailer
Has your dad influenced your style in any way?
I can’t say there’s really anything specific when you say style in terms of fashion. In fact, my father is an immaculate and pristine dresser. Everything is ironed, crisp, and neat. I’m the exact opposite.
What is the best thing about masculine/feminine dressing?
It naturally tends to be effortless. I never really pre-meditate my dressing in a masculine way. I suppose throwing on a shirt and jeans is just really easier, especially with five kids.
Explain your affinity to trousers as opposed to dresses.
I like my legs warm. So long skirts are fine, too.
What is the one thing that your dad taught you that made who are today?
Resilience.
What trait from your dad do you most identify with?
Independence.