STYLE PROFILE : Liz Dumdum

Tell our readers a little about yourself and where you’re from

I was born and raised in the Queen City of the South or as known as Cebu in the Philippines but I am currently based in Manila (the capital city). I graduated from the Ateneo de Manila University with a Bachelor’s degree in European Studies (International Relations Track), Minor in Hispanic Studies. Throughout college, I had the opportunity to study in Salamanca, Spain and also to intern at the Permanent Mission of the Republic of the Philippines to the United Nations in New York. At present, I am about to work for the Asia Pacific Economic Conference, which will be held in my country in 2015 under the Department of Foreign Affairs. Aside from being absolutely filled to the top with wanderlust, I could probably sum up what I am all about in a fractional way. I am divided into equal parts feminine, chill and rebellious.

What inspired you to start your blog The Style Diplomat?

 Aside from my friends who constantly pushed me to start a blog, I saw the need for bloggers who put their soul into fashion and writing. Since I had all the time in the world, I started The Style Diplomat. The blog's name is coined from my two passions: fashion and diplomacy. I believe that clothes tell a story and are always your reflection to the world.

–photo provided by LIZ DUMDUM

What would you say inspires your style the most? 

I would say that my style is inspired by my favorite shops like Topshop, Nastygal, Urban Outfitters, Missguided. I somehow manage to just mix and match their vibes and as a result, I sometimes look grunge or look feminine or sometimes a bit street chic.

Do you have any wardrobe essentials?

All my wardrobe essentials always come in either black or white (but mosty black, like an LBD or a black blazer). There are just times that a pair of boyfriend jeans makes the exception.

Where are some of your favorite places to shop?

I love to shop at Zara, River Island, Bershka and Stradivarius.

All of your outfits on your blog always look so effortless. Do you have any advice for girls who want to achieve that perfect relaxed look?

Thank you so much! I hate to admit the irony in it but I try really hard to achieve that effortless look. Haha! I always start with what kind of shoes I would want to wear then I try to match a top that goes with it. Anything that you are comfortable and confident in wearing will always make you look perfectly relaxed. The secret is just mastering the art of balancing the vibes that your choice of clothes gives off. 

Are there any fashion trends that you are looking forward to trying this season?

I can’t wait for the “IDGAF” look that Zara’s trying to bring in this season. I want to try their effortless minimalist looks and their sandals that look like Birkenstocks! Also, I’m all about laces and meshes this season. They all look so fresh to wear.

What are some places that you recommend that tourists visit if they go to Manila in the Philippines?

I suggest that they should tour around the Philippines and not just Manila. In Manila, you can always go to food trips, visit the historical places that were once colonized by the Spaniards and experience the urban life at night. In Cebu, they can have the chance to swim with whale sharks, enjoy the white sand beaches and all my hometown’s native delicacies. In Siargao, they can surf! Lastly, they can also go to Palawan where they can see the underground river. There is also a place in Palawan called Coron, (a place that I have yet to visit too!) a paradise which reminds me of Bali or even far more beautiful than it. 

–interview curated by CARMEN HENRY

–photo provided by LIZ DUMDUM