A Seeker's Spin: Rissa

by Anne Bella February 10, 2017

A denim button down is the perfect pairing for the vibrant Calasetta maxi skirt if you're more of a casual girl and prefer a picnic date outdoors over fine dining.

For some women, being stylish comes naturally. The saying that you are born with style embedded in your being couldn't ring more true. I've seen it in person and it may not be in the same shape or form for everyone, you'll know it when you see it. From the time I met Rissa Mananquil Trillo over a decade ago, she's had It. In her own words, her style is "a fusion of the clean, timeless, and the unexpected."

Rissa is forever polished, down to the shade of her lipstick and hairstyle but not in a boring, predictable way. Her style is attainable and approachable but it's really in the way she wears the clothes that makes it special. The former model turned beauty brand founder still slays to this day, even after three kids and wearing many hats. "As a mom, wife, columnist, and entrepreneur running Happy Skin, I gravitate towards quality fashion pieces that also multi-task and work as hard as I do. Hardworking yet beautiful clothes are a must. I go for effortless yet interesting pieces I can wear many times and multiple ways. When you have a wardrobe that works well you spend less time choosing and caring for your clothes, and focus instead on more important matters, like family and things you are passionate about."

On her inspiration when dressing up, she credits travel as one of her biggest influences, taking in as much as she can wherever she goes. Her hubby Paolo also pushes her to explore different things, may it be good wine or cultural landmarks to further expand her mind and creativity.

Who is the STU woman for Rissa? "She's a global woman whose style has been influenced by different cultures, but is also deep-rooted in being Filipino. My biggest fashion advice to my girls would be to wear an ensemble that's comfortable enough for the wearer to forget about it but fabulous enough to be remembered by those who see it."

We visited Rissa at home one afternoon to play dress up in various date outfits just in time for Valentine's. Each item she styled from the shop gave us the fashion feels---every look was so on-point and chic! Scroll down and see what she came up with and be inspired to dress however you want to celebrate the day of hearts. xoxo!

Choose a darker denim wash to anchor the equally bright skirt.

Rissa demos print on print action with these zebra slides.

The Sancti one-shoulder top is as versatile as it is unique! You can easily dress it up or down depending on your mood and the occasion.

Rissa pairs the top with leggings and a mesh skirt for an avant garde take. I say wear this on a night of dinner and clubbing after (if that's your jam).

The El Conde playsuit is perfect for a brunch date and she dresses it up with embellished heels and a playful structured bag.

We all fell in love with her Zacarias 1925 bag!

The Androgyne 040 tassled hem pants is given a modern twist with a structured, minimalist top and giraffe print pumps. Wear this for cocktails in your favorite hotel bar.

Playing with proportions paying off in the most amazing way.

We love the drama of this Androgyne 033 Back embroidered silk jacket that's actually super versatile.

Rissa gives it her signature minimalist, structured spin and paired it with light-colored slacks and snakeskin pumps to add contrast. She uses a brightly colored bag as her statement piece. For those who love a good Michelin star resto, this is the outfit to wear.

Surprise detail that got us excited: the glitter heel!

The Chinandega textured jersey maxi is quite the dramatic piece and doesn't need much else but a statement earring and metallic shoes. If you happen to attend a wedding on V-Day, this dress is for you. Entertaining at home? Swap the heels with flat sandals.