TWEED jacket, Blanc et Noir; basic white top, Redhead; skinny pants, Levi’s; leopard sandals, Figliarina from Shubizz

In a nation constantly on the lookout for bargains and crazy for every second of quality time with family, loved ones and peers, shopping malls have become a lifestyle template. Every mall, especially in a far-flung area, is an instant hit. Malls have always been necessary stopovers: a place to chill, an odyssey to explore, and depending on location, a spot to be seen.

Walking into SM Southmall, one can find more than the usual. True to SM Supermalls’ vision of constantly revolutionizing the way we live, SM Southmall has now been reborn. Its complete overhaul comes on its 17th year—just about the age of its biggest target demographic, the teens.

It opened its doors in 1995 to cater to the shopping, dining and entertainment needs of the south.

The fifth supermall to be built by SM Prime Holdings, it made good on its promise. It reshaped the lifestyle of the south through the years.

GRAY basic top and slim jeans, Levi’s; silver accessories, Michelis; boho bracelets, Tomato

However, 2012 is spinning a different story. Apart from shopping, it is now also a prime destination for beauty, dining, gaming, health and fitness. It has grown its list of stores and tenants. It is also a prime spot for academic, cultural, health, entertainment and sports events.

A sought-after entertainment spot, it was the first to bring IMAX and ice skating to the southern part of the Metro.

In many ways, SM Southmall has become an integral part of our pop culture sensibilities. True to its vision, it succeeded in bringing a new face to southern living.

In light of this, we did our shoot befitting that southern chill vibe, inspired by the ever-so-popular K-pop flare.

Beyond coffee

For all its K-Pop elements, Hollys Coffee offers more than just exciting brews—it promotes pop culture.

The Korean invasion continues, though this time, it is no longer just in beauty and grooming products, or crunchy chicken meals, or that frenetic demand for daily soaps and music that leave us wanting more. It is now in the form of fresh, exciting brews and delectable eats. But there’s more—it adds a flavorful note to our pop culture awareness.

No gray area here

Levi’s, the all-American original, is all about classic style and effortless cool. Now it complements K-Pop hip with something as simple as an ensemble of basic gray tee and original pair of jeans.

GRAY basic top and slim jeans, Levi’s; silver accessories, Michelis; boho bracelets, Tomato

The French connection

Celebrating its 18th anniversary in the Philippines and its 40th in its native country of France, Marithé + François Girbaud offers denim in psychedelic cuts and modern lines—French casual chic that comfortably rides on K-Pop sensibilities and blends Korean and western cultures.

Chanel-ling elegance

GRAPHIC top and tailored shorts in mustard, Mags; leopard sandals, Figliarina from Shubizz; silver bangle, Michelis

SM Department store has always been known for fashion finds at reasonable prices. Inspired by Chanel’s classic look, this tweed jacket, paired with classic basic shirt, jeans and statement pumps, will make one stand out.

TWEED jacket, Blanc et Noir; basic white top, Redhead; skinny pants, Levi’s; leopard sandals, Figliarina from Shubizz

Just psychedelic

The ’60s vibe has been given a more current look; try on these graphic vintage prints and tailored shorts.

GRAPHIC top and tailored shorts in mustard, Mags; leopard sandals, Figliarina from Shubizz; silver bangle, Michelis

Simply graphic

One can never have too much of graphic shirts. Along this line, Tomato has always been a top choice of young people.

GRAPHIC shirt, skinny jeans and brown sneakers, all from Tomato

Floral flare