INTERVIEW BY MARI SANTOS
ILLUSTRATIONS BY NANA VALDUEZA
With a new year comes a new wardrobe. A common misconception when following trends is that it always equates to good style. It isn't always the case cause it takes a keen eye to differentiate fleeting fads from timeless classics. We saw how cozy loungewear ultimately ruled in 2021, but now we're slowly ready to transition from working from home in sweats to wearing our real clothes again.
"I believe people are now more open to exploring fashion beyond gender norms."
24-year-old emerging stylist Bryan Laroza is no stranger to trends. He is the prime example of adhering to them wisely and his impeccable style greatly translates to his work. Here, he provides a comprehensive guide on the menswear trends worth incorporating into your wardrobe and foolproof style moves to embrace in 2022.
Bryan: Ever since I was in elementary, I’ve always hated the idea of wearing school uniforms. So much so that I look forward to my P.E. classes just so I can put on my favorite pair of rubber shoes. I’m such a rule-breaker when it comes to uniform guidelines. Every time we have an excuse to wear something casual in an event or during programs, I just automatically have the biggest smile on my face and would often take it seriously because I love impressing other people with my crazy outfits.
Bryan: All I can say is that I’m really fortunate to be given the opportunity to work with, and be trusted by these amazing people. Under the guidance of my mentor, Ryuji Shiomitsu, I was able to work with big names like Richard Juan, Jane Oineza, Adrianna So, Christelle Abello, and Maureen Schrijvers just to name a few. Most of my works are usually found in magazines like MEGA, Parcinq, Village Pipol, and Stail. As for brands, It was so fun working with Luminisce, Careline, and Vivo Philippines, and I hope to work with even more soon.
Bryan: It’s true when they say that trends just go in circles. 2021 was filled with the 70s, 80s, and even 90s influences. From wide-legged trousers to eighties-inspired suiting, the trend that I believe will carry on in 2022 is Relaxed Dressing.
This means more men and even women will opt for an oversized or relaxed fit. Especially with the pandemic ever-changing how we live our lives, people will likely be adapting to a more comfortable type of dressing. I’m not mad at this because I was born in the 90s and I get to appreciate the style even more now that I’m an adult.
LACOSTE
calvin klein
LACOSTE
Bryan: One of the things not a lot of people know about me is that I often shop at the women’s section. I never conform myself to shopping in the men’s section just because I know my style. Ever since I got rid of the awkward phase of buying from women’s pieces, I have had lots of fun trying on different silhouettes and seeing what works for me.
It became a habit because a lot of the time there are just some pieces in the women’s section that are more eye-catching and would cater more to my body type. During the last two years, I would often see guys like me do the same thing and show it off on social media. From wearing crop tops to even sporting knee-length skirts, I believe people are now more open to exploring fashion beyond gender norms. And so I feel, for 2022, brands and fashion houses would be picking up on this and be more open to gender-neutral fashion.
CHAMPION
tommy hilfiger
ARMANI EXCHANGE
BOSS
Bryan: I believe that every single one of us should at least have one crisp white button-down shirt inside our closet. You can dress it up or dress it down, it’s just a universal piece.
POLO RALPH LAUREN
BOSS
pedro del hierro man
GAP
Bryan: If there’s any advice I would give to men when they go shopping, it is to not be limited to the concept of True To Size. I believe men should be more conscious about the way they want their clothes to fit them rather than how they’re supposed to. Since men don't have a lot of options compared to women, I think one way to play around with what’s available is through fit or sizing.
Bryan: I am a firm believer that a good white tee with trousers combo, topped off with a versatile denim jacket and classic pair of shades would never go out of style. Nothing beats the classic.
GAP
calvin klein
CALVIN KLEIN
ray-ban
