Men With Style: David Guison, Content Creator
The 34-year-old is a huge advocate of supporting fashion brands from the Philippines.
By Gracia Phang - published
“I would sneak my Nokia 6600 into school and document anything that piqued my interest, and post it on my personal blog,” says David Guison when asked about his beginnings in content creation. That little adventure would eventually lead him to take a leap into creatively documenting his laidback and effortless style. Always experimenting and exploring, Guison, who is based in Manila, has since expanded into comedy, enjoying a different form of connecting with his audiences by showing off a different side of himself.
Related article: Style Files: Mae Tan On Creating From A Place Of Authenticity
When was the exact moment you fell in love with fashion?
“Back in high school, we would have what they call ‘wash day Fridays’ where we wore whatever we wanted, as long as they still met school regulations. I would pack lunch so I could use my allowance to buy clothes! That gave me a sense of freedom and allowed me to discover more of what I liked—even simply just dressing up and experimenting with different styles.”
What does fashion mean to you?
“I see fashion as a language that allows me to communicate my creativity and personality. It can be from styling the clothes I wear, the accessories or the perfume I choose for the day—fashion gives me the opportunity to showcase my individuality.”
Related article: Filipino Designer Michael Leyva On His Story Of Love, Loss, And Legacy
What is the most treasured piece in your wardrobe, and why?
Young David in his thrifted Vagabond boots
“My most treasured piece in my wardrobe is a pair of Vagabond boots that I thrifted when I was in college. I got it for only 300 pesos (about S$6). I spent more money trying to have those shoes fixed because it kept falling apart. Since I only had a limited budget to purchase clothes and shoes, I would save my student allowance and buy a new shirt or pair of shoes at the end of the week or month. This pair of boots means so much to me because it really started my love for fashion and introduced me to this industry.”
Related article: 5 Southeast Asian Brands To Know, According To Fashion Insiders From The Region
Who is your favourite designer, and why?
“Right now, it would have to be Viktor’s Ino Caluza. I remember interviewing them for my one of college projects, and I really wanted a piece from the brand but I couldn’t afford it at the time. Now that I’m working, I make sure to support and wear Viktor’s pieces! They do great custom denim pieces—I love combining two different shades of denim. I always get compliments when I wear them. I make sure to wear Filipino designers or brands every chance I get. That’s how I can use my platform and influence to support local.”
Who do you think is the most underrated Asian designer?
“Antonina. Wearing her pieces empowers me. It’s not usually in my comfort zone, but I always have so much fun when I wear Antonina.”
What are your go-to brands?
“These are some of my top go-to-brands—all local, of course. First up, Kelvin Morales. He makes beautiful embroidered modern “barongs”. A barong is a traditional Filipino garment, typically made from piña (pineapple fibre), and i love his modern spin to it! I wear it a lot to my events.
Secondly, Vin Orias. They make amazing suits and ready-to-wear casual pieces. I also love his “solihiya” roller bag. I’ll make sure I get married in a Vin Orias suit!
And of course, Viktor for great casual wear and they make really good quality custom denim pants.