FASHION

What is freedom? It could be as simple as choosing what you want to eat or as complicated as loving who you want to love. True freedom is the combination of all of these. Freedom is being unapologetically yourself and understanding that not everyone will approve but still do it anyway. This month, we celebrate the achievements of men and women who have taken the narratives and created their version of success just by being themselves.

In shining silver we have Miss Universe 2019, Catriona Gray fronting the issue as a source of pride. We take a stroll around Manhattan and talk about how her life has changed after winning the crown, and what it took for her to get there. Meanwhile, in lustrous gold we present Manila Luzon, one

of the most celebrated drag queens in the world. Exploring the creativity of Brooklyn, Manila shares her beginnings and what it means to be Filipino in the world of drag. Further along the discourse on pride, we paint the picture of the Filipina with Ang Awit ni Maria Clara, where we revisit iconic Filipino paintings and the muses of each of the art pieces, stylized in the fashion of today, of course.

Freedom to follow your dreams; Freedom to be proud to be Filipino; Freedom to love. These are all rooted in fully understanding your true identity. This month, pride is embracing who you are and finally having the courage to be free.