There are many things to remember the ’90s by. The music was a healthy mix of pop, grunge, alternative and R&B; think Nirvana, Alanis Morissette, Weezer, Lisa Loeb, Hanson, Spice Girls, Backstreet Boys, TLC and Boyz 2 Men. Some of the most memorable youth-oriented flicks of all time—“Clueless,” “10 Things I Hate About You,” “Empire Records,” “Reality Bites”—were shown in the ’90s.
And who can ever forget the fashion trends of that decade? Plaid flannel shirts, corduroy pants, baby doll dresses and shoes, midriff-baring tops, and Doc Martens boots.
Scout Magazine’s launch at the Samsung Hall at SM Aura last July 12 was a throwback to the ’90s. Aptly called “Scout Valley High” after the ’90s juvenile pocketbook series “Sweet Valley High,” the launch party was the perfect setting for a big chunk of the magazine’s prospective readers—today’s 20 to 30-something idealistic and opinionated millennials—to reminisce their youth.
As early as 5 p.m., guests started pouring onto the venue, decked in their “Clueless’” Cher Horowitz-inspired best and grunge-powered flannel garb. DJs Xtina Superstar, Brian Cua and Judd Figuerres banished all inhibitions and gave partygoers a reason to dance to their favorite ’90s pop and R&B anthems on the lobby. The main hall had the stage and other attractions. People lined up for the free pizza of Shakey’s, free booze of Colt 45, and beer pong tables care of Cable Car. Fully functional arcade games, an air hockey tables, and teen-movie-inspired photo and scribble wall were also set up, much to the amusement of the young and young-at-heart. Heima Home and Lifestyle and My Apartment set up a vinyl listening station and lounge while Systema Tooth and Gum Care set up a photo booth and gave away freebies.
However, Scout’s ’90s-themed party wasn’t merely all about reminiscing a past decade. The magazine, after all, is designed to be the voice of the millennial generation. It aims to nourish the said generation’s cravings for culture, art, music, film and events while bringing recognition to talented millennials who deserve it.
The theme for Scout Magazine’s maiden issue focuses on “firsts,” which range from recommendations on what to wear to your first job interview, to what design you might consider if and when you decide to get your first tattoo. On the cover is 24-year-old Idris Vicuña—more popularly and internationally known as electronic music producer Eyedress—who has secured a record deal with London-based music label Abeano.
Celebrating millennial talent at the magazine’s launch was a must, and what better way to celebrate than with heart-thumping live music? Indie-folk ensemble The Ransom Collective successfully inaugurated the evening’s performances, followed by other emerging bands such as Autotelic and Kai Honasan, Danceplaycreate, The Strangeness, Cheats, and more seasoned indie acts Ang Bandang Shirley, Tarsius and Pedicab. Pedicab’s disco rock-powered set capped off the event, which was hosted by indie actress Annicka Dolonius. The first 500 attendees went home with tote bags containing Scout’s maiden issue and stickers.
Brought to you by a young editorial team headed by Cai Subijano, Scout is a free publication by Hinge Inquirer and is distributed on-campus at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, Ateneo de Manila University, University of Santo Tomas, School of Fashion and the Arts, and The One School. It is also available at Heima Home and Lifestyle and My Apartment, Artwork, Sonja’s Cupcakes, Bleach, Scarsdale Artisanal Delights, and other retail outlets.
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