by Alexandra Nicole Nuralam
Stephanie Kienle Gonzalez: “Beauty comes from within.”
It’s hard to catch Stephanie’s bad side, because there isn’t any. The epitome of style and grace, Stephanie Kienle Gonzalez (@stephkienlegonzalez) is the chief operations officer of Filipino furniture company Philux and co-host of award-winning home and design show Metro Home.
When she’s not too busy travelling, running her company or parenting, Stephanie is advocating for environmental conservation on the World Wildlife Fund’s Next Generation Council and on the board of trustees for Habitat for Humanity.
“I was raised in the furniture workshops of the business pioneered by my parents, which led me to discover my passion for interior design early on,” says the Filipino-Swiss beauty, who is based in Manila with her husband and two daughters. “Along with my sister Jessica, I helm Philux, a Filipino furniture and lifestyle brand that champions local craftsmanship.”
Here, we chat with Stephanie on the inspiration behind her work, the women who have influenced her impeccable sense of style, and her perception of beauty.
What keeps you busy every day?
This year I am occupied balancing my work for Philux and my responsibilities as a wife and as a mom of two girls, as well as my advocacies.
Where are you finding your inspiration these days?
Time in nature is one of my favourite things for grounding and finding inspiration. I also read a lot of coffee table books on my interests — interior design, travel, fashion and conservation — these are always a great source to develop ideas and creativity.
When did you start having an awareness of style? Are there women in your life who influenced your sense of style?
Since I was a young girl, I’ve always appreciated beauty and women with a good sense of style. I would admire how some strong women put themselves together so gracefully and hoped to become like them. My mom and my late grandmother have always been style inspirations to me as they remained true to themselves and were effortlessly chic.
What’s your approach when it comes to beauty and wellness?
My approach is very personal — do what is best for you and stick to what works in the long run. Try to tread the earth lightly.
How do you look after your skin?
I always make sure to wash my face before bed to get rid of all the impurities that accumulate throughout the day, even when I’m just at home. I cleanse, tone, add a serum and moisturize. And I have recently discovered gua sha — I enjoy having it as part of my routine.
How has your perception of beauty changed through the years?
I think over time, I have realized that beauty comes from within, from being happy. A radiant and genuine smile has a more positive impact on me than perfectly applied makeup.
What is most important to you: comfort, beauty, or innovation?
I would love to combine the three!
What are your hopes for the year ahead?
My hopes are for the world to be a more peaceful place and for myself to approach the new year with positivity, grit, grace and hope.
Stephanie’s Beauty Picks
Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, SGD27
Laneige Water Sleeping Mask, SGD42
Charlotte Tilbury Goddess Skin Clay Mask, SGD80
Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 40 PA+++, SGD52
Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse, SGD54.90
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