Let’s talk about the concept of perfection. Perfect is impossible, we’re told. But the pursuit of perfection is the thrilling part of life.
Solenn Heussaff is a young woman who seems to have the world at her feet. Her star is ascendant, as hagiographers might put it. And yet she remains firmly grounded, even as she continues to shine as an actress, TV host, model, singer, among other preoccupations.
Solenn is one of 50 prominent personalities from various fields who are featured in the recently launched coffee-table book “No Body Is Perfect.” Here we see the Eurasian beauty along with other fitness enthusiasts, all photographed by master lensman Jun de Leon for publisher Al Agra and his Kape Teybol Buk publishing house.
There is a sense of irony in “No Body Is Perfect,” in that the models all seem perfect—at least from a fitness point of view. But the best part of the book is the joie de vivre and the fun that Jun elicited from his subjects, each of whom obviously enjoyed their moment with the camera.
The book was launched at the Bonifacio High Street central Amphitheater, with many of the models in attendance, including “bad boy” actor Robin Padilla, broadcaster Raffy Tulfo, sportsman Paulo Trillo with his wife Rissa Mananquil, model-actress-designer Tweetie de Leon, and photographer Joan Bitagcol.
Also on hand were publisher Al Agra and photographer Jun accompanied by his wife Abigail Arenas.
Also in attendance were celebrity chef Carlo Miguel, entrepreneur Ruby Gan, editor Myrza Sison, Department of Health director Eric Tayag, blogger Laureen Uy, interior designer Andy Vazquez-Prada, fashion designer Michele Sison, architect Therese Yupangco, surfer Jeff Ortega and fitness couples Georgia and Armand del Rosario, and Jenna and Mark Parilla.
“No Body Is Perfect” is available at all major bookstores. (Call 0915-5851811.)
Bench endorser
Solenn herself missed the launch, which goes to show that, indeed, nobody’s perfect.
But one event that Solenn did not miss was her own debut as the latest endorser of Bench Body. The French-themed event was held at The Playground of the Bench Tower in Bonifacio Global City.
“La Nuit de Solenn” highlighted the latest collection of Bench Body underwear. It features contracting bursts of color and a wide mix of materials such as nylon for women’s undergarments and cotton for men’s underwear. It also boasts of sexy camis with lace details and sheer pieces perfect for layering.
Guests experienced a French escapade and were treated to a night of sumptuous canapés amid Euro-style décor in hues of black, gray and white. More importantly, they were feted with an array of sizzling, racy outfits.
The fashion show flaunted Bench Body’s latest vogue pieces that added excitement to the buildup of the most-awaited part—the unveiling of Solenn as the star of the evening. Dressed like a goddess, she serenaded the guests with four songs including one from her own album. She sang so beautifully, and in both French and English.
When asked about her favorites from the collection, Solenn revealed that the pastel bra and panty set is top of her list. She finds great comfort in other Bench apparel, from the materials used to the design choices. Even her boyfriend uses Bench underwear.
Solenn says she feels totally at home with the Bench family. She is thrilled to join her friends Anne Curtis and Georgina Wilson as endorsers of the global brand.
Next year’s highly anticipated Bench Body Fashion Show will be more exciting with Solenn in it. Bench Body’s latest collection is available at all Bench and Bench Body stores nationwide.
Bench king Ben Chan has been so generous and will be supporting this year’s Red Charity Gala featuring Dubai-based fashion designer Ezra Santos. Red Ball co-chair Kaye Tinga and I are so excited as we prepare for yet our biggest production ever.
Sharp as ever
It’s amazing that the concept of perfection can be attained at any age. You just need to keep striving to be better, even when you reach around quadruple that of Solenn’s age.
Doña Marcelina Alejo Oreta is one such person. She celebrated her centennial birthday recently.
Nena, as friends and family call her, may be 100 but she is still as sharp as ever, recalling details from the past with enviable clarity. Originally from Cabiao, Nueva Ecija, Doña Nena moved to Malabon in her youth where she married the late Judge José F. Oreta and raised an outstanding family, one of whom I have come to know and love, Babes Oreta, president of Alphaland.
Doña Nena’s centenary was celebrated at the Alphaland Tents last week, and her well-wishers included Vice President Jejomar and Dr. Elenita Binay, and my parents, Alex and Marixi Prieto.
Also in attendance were two young mayors who both share repeating first names, Junjun Binay of Makati and Lenlen Oreta of Malabon.
Other nieces and nephews included former Senator Tessie Aquino-Oreta, Len Oreta and Francisco Alejo, president of San Miguel Foods.
The entertainment was special, led by Ms. Pilita Corrales, with Jun Polistico and tenor Lemuel de la Cruz. Not to be outdone, the celebrator herself sang a kundiman medley and gave her thank-you speech—without reading glasses!
Oh, how I wish I could do either of those things!
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