For Mags Cue, fashion is a form of empowering herself and others regardless of size or age.
Fashion is a language where self-expression reigns supreme. Whether it’s one response to society or the start of one’s conversation with others, dressing up is a form of speaking up for oneself, and also, for others. If there is anyone who understands this, it’s clothing apparel entrepreneur Mags Cue.
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Fashion for One, and for All
“It’s not just only my passion,” the businesswoman begins explaining. “It is also my advocacy. I’ve been doing this for 20 years, and it’s more on women empowerment. I also do annual fashion shows called Mags on the Catwalk to help women boost their self-esteem and self confidence.” The said initiative happens nationwide, catering to women of all ages and sizes to affirm their significance in their individual fields of their lives. “Every time they use our clothes, I develop this sense of confidence and credibility that they like, trust, and believe in what they’re wearing,” she adds.
The Reality of Business
The road to success has adjectives ascribed to the journey of getting to where one wants to be. Alone is oftentimes a part of that, and it is with this fact that Calpito-Cue continues to strive. “We’re into the [clothing] business already even before. Our family business used to be a tailoring shop, a dress shop. Personally, I’ve always had this passion for fashion, and I’ve always loved dressing up. But among all of the siblings, I’m the only one who did the same thing,” she points out.
When asked about the challenge of running her business, Mags’ response was a follow up to her decision of continuing their family legacy. “I’m the sole proprietor of Mags,” she says. “My sons are all masculine and brusko, and they’re not into women’s fashion. They help out, but they’re all boys.” Speaking like a true mother, she couldn’t help but also talk about her sons, particularly Andre Cue, who had a particular interest in pageantry just like her. “My son was Mister International Philippines-Caballero Unversal 2022 and he landed top 10 in the International Competition in Venezuela,” she recalls.
A Power Woman’s Vision
In the realm of business, competition signifies a demand that needs to be met. While others thrive at the thought of monopolizing in one industry, Cue is the opposite. For her, it’s not really competition but an opportunity for the market. “The market is too competitive,” she admits. “But I’m just so happy na tabi-tabi kaming mga boutique because that means you have a lot of pieces to choose from. If ang dami niyong brands, the people will come over.”
Concluding the interview, Mags offers advice anchored on her experience and mindset as a power woman. “Follow your dreams, follow your art. Age and status don’t really matter. What matters is your passion. Don’t look at a business or motivate yourself to earn. Motivate yourself to do your best. The earnings will follow.”
Photography DOOKIE DUCAY. Art Direction ANDREW ENCAPAS. Fashion Direction SEAN CASTELO. Beauty Direction MIA CASTRO. Styling ROKO ARCEO, assisted by GISELLE BARNACHEA. Sittings Editor MIA CASTRO. Makeup MAURI ESTRADA. Hair MISTY GABRIEL. Shoot Coordination JOANA FERNANDO and ISABELLA DARANG. Special thanks to GRAPEVINE RESTAURANT and JULIUS LAGMAN
