Arshie Larga leaped onto NYLON Manila’s September cover and into our hearts. Let us explain just how fashion and creative direction came together to achieve it.
Licensed pharmacist and content creator Arshie Larga has grown a sizable fan base through his approachable demeanor, relatable takes, and educational focus in his videos. An advocate for better and more accessible healthcare, he also uses the earnings from his channels to help customers pay for their medications, earning him accolades such as TikTok Philippines’ Creator of the Year and a spot on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list. More than this, his experience as both a young professional and social media star made him the perfect subject for NYLON Manila’s September issue, where the goal was to guide new graduates as they enter the workforce. We’re going to take you through the creative direction behind every swatch and every garment that led to the story of our First Job issue.
Related: Arshie Larga Demystifies Your First Job Experience
TIME TO CLOCK IN
Production Design by ARJ MADZ of JAGGER STUDIOS
Whether you’ve never had a job before or have some internship experience under your belt, entering your first full-time job at a company can be a frightful new endeavor. But it’s also a very exciting new chapter in your life, and this is the mood and energy that was conveyed with Arshie’s pose and the crosswalk he sped across. “To capture the excitement and motion of starting a new job, we had Arshie jump across a faux pedestrian set with a traffic light, mimicking the rush of crossing a real pedestrian lane on the way to the office,” Andre Chang, Fashion and Creative Director of NYLON Manila explains.
From the type face of the cover line imitating a modern clock, to the shades of sage green associated with growth and change, paired with rich tan, caramel, and brown for a warmer spin on the neutral beige color palette often associated with the corporate era aesthetic, the image created by this month’s cover is meant to evoke a feeling of ‘new beginnings’. “The earthy brown color palette of the clothing perfectly complements the green backdrop, enhancing the overall aesthetic. The browns exude warmth, positivity, and excitement, adding a dynamic energy to the looks,” Chang articulated. “This combination of green and brown creates a harmonious and inviting visual story, underscoring the themes of growth, transition, and the anticipation of a new journey.”
Production Design by ARJ MADZ of JAGGER STUDIOS
DRESS FOR THE JOB YOU WANT
BOMBER JACKET BY @VAROBHERRERA
Taking a narrative approach to the story of the First Job, Arshie’s clothing for the shoot were custom-made to make plenty of cheeky references to office life. “To keep the spirit of NYLON’s fun, youthful, and playful energy alive, the Harrington jacket featured on our cover is designed with pockets, tabs, and compartments that hold work or office supplies like pencils, notepads, ballpens, Pentel pens, calculators, and even house keys. This practical yet whimsical detail adds a layer of personality and crafty charm to the overall look,” Chang beamed. Pairing such a statement piece with updated workwear staples of corduroy and cargo definitely fits the landscape of men’s fashion today.
The references don’t end there. Chang adds, “Football varsity polo shirts, neckties, and classic preppy boater and derby shoes are cleverly integrated into the looks, bridging the gap between college life and the working world. By styling these items as workwear, we create a narrative that resonates with the transition from academic to professional life.” The use of the trench coat as well as a sort of leveled up graduation toga? 10/10 no notes.
SHOES BY @KONZEPT_SHOEPH
PROFESSIONAL FACE CARD
Makeup by LIONEL FABROS, Hair by PATTY CRISTOBAL
To mimic the natural and demure look that is commonly associated with office-appropriate beauty, Arshie’s makeup was very minimal – emphasizing his natural face card. His hair, on the other hand, was given the full NYLON Manila cover star treatment. “For hair and makeup, we wanted to try something new for Arshie, giving him reddish-brown hair paired with defined brows and minimal, natural-looking makeup. This fresh hairstyle and subtle makeup enhance his youthful appearance while maintaining a professional edge,” Chang explained.
Arshie was giving ready to make his move and sacrifice himself (in the best was possible – IYKYK). The mix of bold color with soft but effective makeup shows us that: just because you’re dressing for the office, doesn’t mean it can’t be Big, Bold, and Brave. Just make sure to check if your office has guidelines regarding dyed hair!
Photography by JOSH TOLENTINO
Assisted by ANTONIO VAZQUEZ
Videography by DAVID STA. INES
Creative and Fashion Direction by ANDRE CHANG
Art Direction by GELO QUIJENCIO
Styling by ANDRE CHANG
Assisted by KURT ABONAL and MARIA PAZ GAMUS
Production Design by ARJ MADZ of JAGGER STUDIOS
Makeup by LIONEL FABROS
Hair by PATTY CRISTOBAL
Shoot Coordination by JASMIN DASIGAN
Editor-in-Chief MAGGIE BATACAN
Managing Editor RAFAEL BAUTISTA
Brand Associate BIANCA LAO
Order your copy of the First Job MyZine Print Pack featuring Arshie Larga now here.
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