MANILA, Philippines - With 1.78 million Twitter followers, celebrity stylist Liz Uy is a bit of a celebrity herself. As one of the country’s biggest names in fashion and styling, Liz has dressed some of Manila’s brightest stars. As a publishing princess, she’s been seen on the cover of Preview magazine — which, ironically, is where she began her stint in fashion as an editorial assistant — and she continues her publishing work as digital curator for Style: Singapore. Oh, and of course, there’s her bestselling book of fashion tips, styLIZed: Liz Uy’s Ten Style Essentials.
Taking it a notch higher, Liz has started endorsing brands such as Globe, Plains and Prints, and Sony. Her latest partnership is with Happy Skin cosmetics, and she even has a collaboration with the brand to be launched in time for her birthday on Feb. 5 at Raffles Hotel Makati. But even with her hectic schedule, Liz still finds time to inject a bit of pampering in her routine, and she recently spoke to Supreme about her beauty philosophy.
SUPREME: When did the interest in beauty start for you?
LIZ UY: When I was young, I would borrow lipsticks from my mom, as any kid did. I was into peel-off nail polish in grade school. That was my obsession! But as for makeup, I grew up just copying what I would see in magazines, and I followed the trends, even those that didn’t suit me.
My interest in beauty started really when I worked in Preview. I would go to shoots constantly and watch how makeup artists did it. I can say I’ve worked with the best in the industry and they shared their tricks, which I’m really thankful for. Then I started collecting, with the help of (Preview’s) beauty editor Agoo Bengzon. She would always give me a loot bag, maybe once a month or more I think, haha. I still collect until now.
What would you say is your personal beauty philosophy?
Moisturize and stay happy! It is the best glow.
How does beauty affect your life as an in-demand stylist, from day-to-day or even in your creative process?
We have to look presentable and pleasant because of our job, so I make it a point to make myself look put together. Nothing fancy, just a bit of grooming. Also, if you feel good about yourself, you will be in a good mood, and if you’re in a good mood, you can share more. (Laughs.)
As a busy woman, do you have any beauty tips for women on the go?
I believe in keeping it simple! You can live with just lipstick alone. Power lipstick is red, of course. Put on heels and statement jewelry!
What are your skincare and beauty staples?
My staples are really just staples: simple. Of course, I have Tresemme shampoo and conditioner. I style my hair with a bit of hair gel, things like that.
My beauty staples are also very basic. I just use moisturizer, an eyebrow pencil, eyeliner, mascara and eyelash curler, a bit of cheek tint, lip balm, and lipstick. Makeup can be intimidating when you first start out, but when you have a good set of staples, you’re set for life!
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