Style Manila is so good, I feel like am reading my fave fashion magazine, without shelling out precious pesos. The blog's author, Sasha Manuel, never fails to give us insights on the fashion persona of the modern Filipino. Of course it helps that crisis or no crisis, we will always find time to style and beautify ourselves!

Q. Please give us a little bit of history: what made you come up with a site like Style  Manila?
A. It was an idea formed when I came back from Australia in 2006. I had started managing my first fashion blog, Tops2Bottoms.com, back in 2005 whilst in Australia but the blog showcases more on global trends and caters to an international reader base. So, the concept of creating a blog that celebrated Philippine fashion became one of things I'd want to do as a fashion blogger and as a Filipino. I had wanted the rest of the world to know more about the beauty and style found on Manila streets.

Q. StyleManila has come a long way. What do you think counts for its success? Who are your readers?
A. It has, hasn't it? StyleManila.com is nearing its third year and it's still very much alive. I reckon spending a lot of time creating useful and entertaining content has helped draw readers in. Also, since most of those who frequent the blog are like-minded folks, mostly women who shares the same interest in fashion and beauty and there are those Filipinos who live abroad but want to keep tabs on the goings-on in Manila, spending time and effort in fostering a community didn't hurt.

Q. Considering the diversity of beauty products and fashion labels, how do you decide what to write or feature in your blog?
A. Mainly, I'd feature ones that I would truly recommend. Hence, I would prefer personal accounts to every feature, from trying out products to come up with a review post to showcasing the latest collection seen during a local designer's show or purchases made from a recent shopping trip.
Q. What does it take to be a beauty and fashion blogger in these parts?
A.  Personally, it's all a matter of interest. If you're truly passionate about beauty and/or fashion, knowing you'll be able to write/blog consistently over a long period of time then all you need to do is put up the blog.

Q.  Your favorite moments as a beauty and fashion blogger.
A. I would have to say that I love the satisfaction that I feel after having finished a post then hitting the publish button. Seeing people react, from leaving comments to sending in emails or text messages, is also a part that makes it enjoyable. Another is that I was able to stretch my photography skills as I experiment on product photos to accompany my posts.

Q.Your fashion and beauty
wish list.
A. I'm wishing for a pair of Manolo Blahnik shoes, a customised Ivarluski Aseron dress and a lifetime supply of skincare products!

Q. Your plans for your blog.
A. My mantra has always been taking things one day at a time, so I reckon I can't dish out impressive plans. I'd love to see StyleManila.com add on more sister sites like StyleCebu.com though. I'd love to see more of our country's fashion and beauty online.

(For comments and inquiries, email annalyn.jusay@gmail.com or visit http://www.annalyn.net)