inside
Model Citizen
She goes by Clau, or Claudinha , but it’s Claudia Bezza, and she speaks four languages, hails from Brazil, lives in Hong Kong, and frequents Cebu. She prefers the simpler things in life but also enjoys the good life, and works hard for it. She gives, she shares, she’s a model citizen of the world, pun intended.
She goes by Clau, or Claudinha , but it’s Claudia Bezza, and she speaks four languages, hails from Brazil, lives in Hong Kong, and frequents Cebu. She prefers the simpler things in life but also enjoys the good life, and works hard for it. She gives, she shares, she’s a model citizen of the world, pun intended.
Off-shoulder nude jersey dress overlaid with gold brocade “scales” cutouts by Cary Santiago, gold pearl necklace worn as bracelet and stud earrings from Jewelmer
Running on a most meager amount of sleep, Hong Kong-based Brazilian high-fashion model Claudia Bezza, slipped her statuesque frame into one glittering couture dress after another. But she’s used to that. She was smiling the whole time, cracking jokes in two languages, greeting and thanking in a third, all while striking a myriad poses for Manila-based Argentinian model and photographer Eric Alessi.
Like many physically-blessed Brazilians, Claudia’s story of discovery is not too unique. She was approached by a model-scout at the age of fourteen, so on and so forth. But this is where it gets interesting: she declined to model right away—also discouraged by her mother—and completed first her military (that’s right, military) high school education, wanting to be an air force pilot like her older brother, Wiston (yes, not “Winston”).
Silver jersey dress adorned with Swarovski crystals in an art-deco design by Jun Escario, black pearl stud earrings by Jewelmer.
But the fashion world called once again and she was convinced by friends to join a state modelling contest and after winning was recruited by modelling agency Marilyn, the same agency that handles talents such as Fernanda Tavares and Giselle Bündchen, who both don’t need any introductions.
Gold lace blouse with a pierrot collar and gold silk gazar skirt with ribbon by Philip Rodriguez, golden pearl cuff, ring and studs by Jewelmer
Because Claudia’s look is very malleable, she has worked as a model all over the world, and mainly in Brazil, Europe, and Asia, doing campaigns for household names like Vodafone, Oral-B, and Bacardi; runway shows for designers such as Valentino, Vivienne Westwood, John Galliano, and Jil Sander, and brands such as Versace, Louis Vuitton, La Perla, Cartier, Fendi, Piaget, Hugo Boss, and other beloved Brazilian brands and designers, among her countless editorial work and covers for magazines like Harper’s Bazaar, In Style, Marie Claire, and Cosmopolitan, and even a namesake Brazilian magazine, Claudia. Little did she know that a second trip to Hong Kong would change her life once again.
Brown and gold lace dress by Ito Curata, golden stud earrings, ring and opera pearls worn in matinee length by Jewelmer.
Part whim and part coercion from her manager brought Claudia back to Hong Kong in 2006. It was then never going to be the same. A mutual friend, of herself and Martin Yeung—son of Cebuana philanthropist Mariquita Salimbangon-Yeung and Hong Kong tycoon Carlos Yeung—had introduced them. It was only after a year of friendship that a deeper courtship took its form lasting three years (and counting), and like they say, the rest is history. “Martin was brought up very well,” Claudia said, “men like him are so rare these days.”
Since she had met Martin, Claudia has also been frequenting Cebu and claims she loves the place as it reminds her so much of her hometown, Natal. “You will be surprised how similar Cebu is to Natal,” she said, “the people are extremely friendly and warm, and both share very similar values and morals, especially when it comes to family and loved ones.” Although she calls Hong Kong her home away from home, she says she also feels very much at home when she is in Cebu.
Jewelry by Simplex Diam, shot by Martin Yeung
Aside from her mom and brother, the two closest people to her heart, she also deeply admires and takes much inspiration from her “Tita Mariquita and her heart of gold”, who she says can go on for days without sleep just making sure her Operation Smile charity activities go on without a hitch. Claudia too has her personal advocacies back in Natal, something she does mostly on weekends in her free time, gathering together and distributing just the most basic needs such as food and water to some indigent areas. “Any amount you share with the less fortunate goes a long way,” Claudia mused, “and it makes me very happy just to see them smile.”
“Tudo posso naquele que me fortalece,” she quoted Philippians 4:13, as the best advice she’s been given, and the best she would ever give: “I can do all things though Him who gives me strength.” Of all the glamorous things she has seen and experienced, Claudia Bezza strongly believes that to love and to be loved is her true luxury in life.
Jewelry by Simplex Diam, shot by Martin Yeung
Claudia was, of course, very professional, showing up at the shoot on the dot and though she was tired from flying in from Hong Kong that same day and going straight from the airport to the set, she made not even the faintest of complaints. She declined having a bite between changes as she was watching her diet, but still had enough energy to display her lightning-fast reflexes to catch a set of lighting equipment as they fell, when someone tripped over the wire. She also adamantly protected her modesty, requesting everyone to kindly step out as she changed herself. Even with quite a shy demeanor she wittily cracked a couple of jokes during grooming, and tried impressing everyone with her “salamat kaayo,” and other beginner Bisaya phrases between takes.
Although the beautiful photos portray a more romanticised ideal, the simpler, real, and candid Claudia Bezza shined through.
by Ian E. Baol photographer Eric Alessi production manager David Jones Cua guest stylist Melo Esguerra make-up artistRomero Vergara make-up assistant Jessie Egos
inside
The Homes of Zee–Holiday Edition: Christmas House No. 3
Christmas House No. 3
Check out why this holiday home is on our list of 12 Cebu homes this season. Zee.ph offers a glimpse of Cebu’s holiday homes from far and wide. Please follow our series as we bring you a different home in the next few days!
Welcome to Christmas Home No. 3, where the season’s spirit is adorned in elegant white hues. This cozy abode is nestled near Cebu’s bustling IT Park, which radiates tradition and festive cheer. The homeowners, a delightful couple, eagerly await the arrival of their only daughter and her family from Manila.
As you enter this winter wonderland, a white Christmas tree takes center stage, adorned with glistening ornaments that shimmer in the soft glow of fairy lights. The white decor creates an atmosphere reminiscent of a snowy holiday retreat. Opting for a white-themed Christmas isn’t just a stylistic choice; it’s an invitation to embrace simplicity, purity, and serenity during the festive season. The neutral palette provides a canvas for creativity, allowing each ornament to stand out and making memories more vibrant. It offers modern living and timeless elegance, creating a perfect backdrop for family celebrations. Peek inside the magic of a white Christmas as this welcoming home awaits the joyous reunion of loved ones.
inside
The Homes of Zee–Holiday Edition: Christmas House No. 1
Check out why this holiday home is on our list of 12 Cebu homes this season. Zee.ph offers a glimpse of Cebu’s holiday homes from far and wide. Please follow our series as we bring you a different home in the next few days!
This sleek house seamlessly blends into its natural surroundings while exuding a modern aesthetic that sets it apart as one of the most stylish homes in Cebu. Upon entering, the interior’s clean lines and minimalistic design immediately capture the essence of contemporary living. The couple’s home reflects their impeccable taste and dynamic lifestyle, which revolves around work and travel. Every corner of the house seems to narrate a story of the couple’s journey through fashion and design.
The living area is adorned with carefully selected holiday decor that complements the overall simplicity. Large glass windows invite abundant natural light, seamlessly connecting the indoor and outdoor space from day to night. The choice of neutral tones enhances the sense of tranquility within, offering a retreat from the bustling energy of Cebu below. The residence is decked out in restrained holiday cheer, a curated canvas that mirrors the couple’s artistic inclinations. Every element, from bespoke furniture to curated art pieces, is thoughtfully chosen to create a harmonious environment that speaks volumes about the occupants’ creativity and global influences.
inside
LONDON IN FULL BLOOM: An Exclusive Look at the recent Chelsea Flower Show
The Chelsea Flower Show in London, one of the most prestigious horticultural events in the world, returned in full glory in May 2023, captivating visitors with its stunning displays and landscape designs. Held annually on the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea in London, this year’s show proved to be a true feast for the senses, showcasing an array of breathtaking gardens, vibrant floral arrangements, and innovative landscaping. The 3-day event showcased 36 outdoor gardens, including four balcony gardens for small spaces. Inside the giant pavilion, blooms compete with each other, exotic flowers, roses, and many more.
The 2023 Chelsea Flower Show embraced a Nature’s Harmony theme, with a strong focus on sustainability and mental health. The show’s organizers emphasized the importance of sustainable gardening practices and biodiversity conservation, inspiring attendees to create beautiful outdoor spaces while preserving and protecting the environment.
What’s Cebu got to do with the Chelsea Flower Show in London? One person. James Doran Webb (https://www.jamesdoranwebb.co.uk), an Englishman working with driftwood, has been displaying his artworks for several years. James collects cast-off driftwood and shapes them into beautiful animal shapes that find places in some of the most iconic gardens. Leaping horses, owls, reindeer, and the occasional dragon, James Webb’s creations are avidly collected by landscapers to add accent to gardens in all sizes, using cast-off wood, fitting perfectly with the sustainable element—something Mr. Webb has done quite well for the last decade.
***
The Philippine International Flower Festival will be held at the PICC in Manila from January 14 to 18, 2024. Watch out for more info from our website!
-
The Homes of Zee3 months ago
The Homes of Zee–Holiday Edition: Christmas House No. 12
-
Fashion1 month ago
The Qipao As Interpreted by Innovative Filipino Designers: JC BUENDIA
-
Fashion1 month ago
The Qipao As Interpreted by Innovative Filipino Designers: PHILIP RODRIGUEZ
-
Fashion1 month ago
The Qipao As Interpreted by Innovative Filipino Designers: PROTACIO EMPACES
-
Fashion2 months ago
The Qipao As Interpreted by Innovative Filipino Designers: EDWIN AO
-
The Homes of Zee3 months ago
The Homes of Zee–Holiday Edition: Christmas House No. 11
-
Fashion2 months ago
The Qipao As Interpreted by Innovative Filipino Designers: RAJO LAUREL
-
Fashion2 months ago
The Qipao As Interpreted by Innovative Filipino Designers: VIC BARBA
You must be logged in to post a comment Login