Liz Uy

When and how did you first develop an interest in fashion?

I guess it started in college. I was a hotel and restaurant management major and I just got so sick of wearing my chef uniform. I started altering it, and during the subjects where I could wear anything, I would really make an effort to dress up.

While working on StyLIZed, what kind of readers did you have in mind?

There really is no target. It’s for everybody. Even the gay guys can enjoy it and gift it to their friends or their moms. It’s a very light book on the 10 essentials — basic stuff that you can wear in so many ways.

You’re a celebrity stylist, and have access to the top brands and top designers. Will everyday women be able to relate to this book?

Of course! The brands that I showcased are very affordable, although I didn’t mention them. I’m not encouraging people to buy more stuff. I work with the kind of stuff that people already find when they open their closets: a white tee, jeans, a blazer, a pencil skirt, shorts, slacks, a tank top, a white button down, a little black dress, and leggings. I want to inspire readers to work with their own stuff and create looks that are stylish and appropriate, but at the same time not overdone. You can very well adapt with what you have.

How would you describe your own style?

It’s different from when I started. Pauline (Suaco-Juan), my editor, used to say that whenever I walked into the office, you could just feel the ‘80s vibe. And since I worked in a fashion magazine, I saw trends and incorporated them. Now that I’m older, I can’t wear short shorts. They’re not my personality. Now, I would say I’m laidback but still very polished.

It’s awkward to tell people about my style. I’d like to say sleek, but isn’t that kapal?

Interview via Cate de Leon from philstar.com