Street Dapper King 2024: LA Aguinaldo

For people growing up during the boom of the internet, it was LA Aguinaldo’s content that opened their eyes to the world of fashion. As a young model and fashion content creator, he documented his every adventure in the local fashion scene and shared everything online, giving everyone a first glimpse of how the industry works while also inspiring them to share their stories through the pieces they wear every day.

“I can trace it back to Garage Magazine,” LA says about pursuing a career in fashion. “Seeing styles in the magazine made me realize that other people also shared my interest in fashion. Garage Magazine was one of those that encouraged me to delve deeper into fashion and learn about the brands. From that point, my world grew.”

Today, LA is one of the biggest names in the Filipino fashion industry, collaborating with esteemed fashion houses and representing the country at various global fashion events. As one of the 2024 Street Dapper Kings, Garage Magazine sits down with LA as he shares his creative process regarding dressing up, style and grooming essentials, and his vision for the future of men’s fashion.

How would you describe the way you dressed before? What makes it different from your personal style now?

I was into trends before, but I would always link my style back to music. I used to listen to a lot of rap, hip-hop, and rock music. At that time, when I was into rock, I often wore black pieces, band shirts, skinny jeans, and Chucks. Music played a role in my fashion then. Now, I’m more intentional about what I wear, focusing on the cut and silhouette. I’m not brand-conscious. I’m more focused on the fit, whether the pieces are from a local or international brand. I prioritize the story and the look over brand names.

What accessory or fashion item are you currently obsessed with? How do you style it?

Sunglasses. Sometimes, a good pair of sunglasses can completely change a look.

Do you look up to any style icons?

Pharrell Williams for sure, Mingyu, and Jacob Elordi.

What’s the one outfit that makes you feel confident or empowered?

There are a lot of brilliant Filipino designers, but I have worked with Neric Beltran. Whatever vision I give him, he elevates it even more. His pieces can make you feel like a star.

What are your grooming essentials?

Estée Lauder serum and N°1 de Chanel Revitalizing Eye Cream.

Favorite fragrance?

I like Ralph’s Club. I also use Marni parfum.

What is your fashion faux pas?

If the fit is not right. You can have the most expensive piece, but if it doesn’t suit your body well, it’s not going to look good.

Where do you think Filipino menswear is heading?

I think it is moving toward greater integration with women’s style. We see shows happening in the same week as womenswear. It’s becoming more inviting, not just to men but to everyone.

Producer: Poy Villamonte
Photography: Mik Primacio of Fatbrain Collective
Art director: Angelo Manalo
Grooming: Muriel Vega Perez and team MVP
Videographer: Andrea Cater 
Location: Manila Prince Hotel 
Special thanks to Edlene Cabral, Kim Tan, Abby Legaspi, and Giselle Trasmonte