Let Stephanie Dods show you how to achieve simple glamor, clean style, and an overall cohesive look in this season of luxury
This is an excerpt from MEGA’s December 2023-January 2024 Stylephile story
Spending the day with Stephanie Dods meant engaging in meaningful conversations and an easygoing atmosphere. From sharing opinions on the local fashion landscape over lunch—the discrepancy in costs and the unmistakable talent of Filipino designers—to hushing over beauty secrets and showbiz news during breaks, Dods’s energy is both dynamic and gentle.
The balance between looking after her son, collaborating with brands, and working as an interior designer keeps her day to day very busy. What keeps her grounded is always making time for her three passions: fitness, cooking, and self-care.
“Luxury for me is time and travel,” she says. “As much as I love a designer bag or outfit, I do prioritize experiences over anything.” Dods also shares that she and her husband love to go around the world, eat at nice restaurants, and enjoy new places together. This holiday season, their family is hoping to go to Japan or Hong Kong for their son’s birthday.
STYLE TALKS
Can you tell us about the exact moment you first fell in love with fashion? Who is your style inspiration and how did they influence your current style?
I remember growing up and watching my mom, who’s always had a passion for dressing up. She was never afraid to be bold, wear prints, and stand out. We don’t necessarily have the same style, but that confidence and self-assurance played a big influence in who I am and how I present myself. I also love consuming fashion and looking at many people and fashion houses for inspiration. I love the elegance of Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, the simple glamor of Monica Belluci, and the elevated chicness of Sofia Richie.
If you could only wear one outfit for the rest of your life, what would it be and why? What’s your ultimate closet staple?
One hundred percent a blazer or a suit. I’ll wear it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner—out shopping or on special occasions. It is the most versatile piece in my wardrobe and the easiest way to feel instantly put-together. I tend to go for more structured blazers, but relaxed blazers are great casuals.
Are you the type to overdress or underdress? Why?
Overdress. Always. I think, once I hit thirty and had my first child, I became really aware that life is too short. I’m very secure with who I am and how I present myself. Therefore, I believe you can never really be overdressed—if you’re dressing for yourself.
Find out Stephanie Dods’s top five must-have fashion items in MEGA’s December 2023-January 2024 issue, now available on Readly, Magzter, Press Reader and Zinio.
Creative Direction JONES PALTENG. Beauty Direction MIA CASTRO. Photography MARC DE MESA. Hair and Makeup VHIO VILLARICA assisted by WADHA SALIH. Shot on location HOUSE OF XO. Sittings Editor MARIAN SAN PEDRO. Shoot Production BITHIA REYES. Special thanks to STEVEN ENRIQUEZ of HOUSE OF XO.
