Dressing an eight-member P-pop girl group during comeback season is no small feat. With eight unique girls with a distinct style each, the stylist is presented with the tall task of coming up with cohesive looks that not only allow for movement, but also showcase each member's individuality. It's a daunting task of conceptualization and planning, yet with Ica Villanueva at the helm, every BINI comeback is a vibrant sartorial spectacle.
In this Preview exclusive, BINI’s resident stylist and visual director walks us through what it’s like to work with this generation’s hottest P-pop girl group.
Preview Exclusive: Ica Villanueva on Dressing the Girls of BINI
How did you end up becoming BINI’s stylist? Describe what it was like when you first worked with them.
"I first styled them when they had their ASAP guesting. At first, it was very difficult because I had to make each look perfect while making it also cohesive as a group. I have to consider each body type, and what cuts or pieces are flattering to them. But during the process, the girls were very enthusiastic and appreciative, you will surely fall in love with their charm.
"After a few styling gigs, BINI's management offered me the position of visual director, who is in charge of their looks, including hair, makeup, and outfits."
How would you describe the BINI girls as clients?
"They are very warm and fun as clients. I'm so grateful that we have good communication where they can suggest and tell me if they aren't comfortable with something. But at the same time, they give their 100 percent trust in me. They're also very appreciative of the whole glam team's efforts, and they never forget to say thank you. At young ages, they're also good role models to me because of their passion, hard work, and kindness."
During comeback season, managing multiple looks for various schedules must be hectic. Can you take us through the process of curating eight distinct looks for each of their engagements?
"I start with a theme depending on the song or album. Then I visualize or research elements that are essential during that era. I also research things on how to make our outfits sustainable, interesting, and different. Like, for example, making use of plastic covers and bottle caps.
"Once pegs are finalized, I assign looks per BINI [member] depending on their individual branding. Then I ask for help from our talented Filipino designers, but most of the time my styling associate and I do the upcycling ourselves.
"I believe consistency is the key to making a statement. So I tend to stay to the overall look per era and make it a trademark. "
What is the biggest challenge that comes with being BINI’s stylist?
"Being able to style them creatively and cohesively while showing their individualities."
In what ways has working with BINI impacted your career?
"I think they gave me the recognition, validation, and appreciation for being a stylist who can work with different genres and groups. Because of BINI, the looks and styles we set serve as an inspiration to people, especially the younger ones. During my younger years as a stylist, I remember praying to God to grant me a client who's a performer. That way, I can experiment with different styles, while being a creative director who can visualize their overall look.
"I remember during my [old] Preview interview, I was asked what my aesthetic was. I answered that I like playing with different textures and layers. Thinking about it now, God has answered my prayers. I really feel blessed and grateful. "
What's your most unforgettable moment while working with BINI?
"I think when they made an apology video for me. I really appreciate their effort, and it goes to show how they respect and treat me as their Ate. "
What’s something interesting about the BINI girls that most fans don’t know yet?
"The girls, most of the time, share a white-black inner bandeau top. [laughs] They also asked me to stop buying shoes for them, because we already have 30 pairs!
"They also use a ‘Wheel of Names’ to decide or assign something. Lastly, even without a label, they know which outfit is assigned to them because they know their own branding."
What is the best part about working with the BINI girls?
"They are a joy to work with, and definitely a breath of fresh air. They are very authentic, charismatic, passionate, warm-hearted, and down-to-earth girls."
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