In an interview with Manila Standard Life, Lovi Poe elaborated on how her latest film trains the spotlight on Filipino fashion. She said, her outfits are a collection of traditional garments with modern interpretations of classic designs.
During an intimate meeting with the press, Poe made a striking entrance, dressed in flowy white trousers paired with a woven tube top embellished with a large flower as the centerpiece. Her outfit’s intricate, handcrafted details mirrored the aesthetic sensibilities featured in the movie, where contemporary fashion is woven with Filipino cultural elements.
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“I just bought it from a store at Rockwell, and I thought it would complement the fashion we have in the film,” Poe said. “This top reminded me of our banig (woven mat).”
Lovi credits the film’s director, Connie Macatuno, for being meticulous in selecting the wardrobe for the cast. Macatuno, who also has her own fashion line called Lokal, ensured that every outfit aligned with the movie’s theme of celebrating Filipino artistry.
“You know, I really like how our director was so particular about the fashion in the movie, from my dresses to those worn by my co-actors, JM de Guzman and Jameson Blake,” Poe added. “Her collection, Lokal, is featured prominently in the film.”
Guilty Pleasure centers on three ambitious lawyers who face the challenges of love, betrayal, and professional ambition. Poe plays Alexis Miranda, a skilled attorney who takes on her former colleagues in a high-profile rape case. The film’s fashion choices are closely tied to the characters’ arcs, particularly Alexis, who is portrayed as a strong and empowered woman.
“It’s my first time playing a lawyer, and the character is very empowered,” Poe said of her role. “The fashion really helps in showing her strength, especially when she’s in court.”
Supporting local brands
Poe has long been a supporter of Filipino designers. During the interview, she emphasized the importance of promoting local fashion and expressed her admiration for the modern takes on traditional clothing seen in the local market.
“I always go to Katutubo, the pop-up market by Bench that features local designs,” Poe said. “I’m especially drawn to the modern Filipiniana they sell. I think we should push harder because we have great products—the ternos, the barongs—especially when we give them a little twist to make them look modern.”
Katutubo, which showcases the work of Filipino artisans and designers, is a frequent stop for Poe. Her passion for local fashion aligns with the overall theme of Guilty Pleasure, where traditional pieces are reinterpreted in a contemporary setting.
“You’ll see more of the kinds of fashion similar to what I’m wearing right now in the film, from the outfits to the accessories like bags and earrings,” she shared. “In the film, I play a lawyer, and our director made sure that every time my character goes to a court hearing, I’m dressed well, and we’re able to showcase Filipino fashion.”
Behind the scenes of Guilty Pleasure
The social romantic drama, written by Noreen Capili and Trisha Mae Delez, delves into the complex dynamics between three lawyers as they face personal and professional dilemmas.
Poe’s character, Alexis Miranda, owns Miranda and Associates, a law firm, and takes on Zach Lopez, a man accused of rape. This puts her in direct conflict with the country’s largest law firm, Atticus, and her former colleagues, who represent the victim, Madison Valencia. As the case progresses, Alexis is forced to confront her own past trauma while dealing with two other significant figures in her life—Adam Lucero, the man who betrayed her, and Matthew Caliente, a young lawyer she once mentored.
The film is directed by Connie Macatuno, known for her previous work in Filipino cinema, and was executive produced by Roselle Y. Monteverde, Keith Monteverde, and the late Mother Lily Y. Monteverde.
Joining Poe, De Guzman, and Blake are Sarah Edwards, Dustin Yu, and Angelica Lao.
Guilty Pleasure unspools on Oct. 16 in cinemas nationwide.
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