Joseph Pascual
From Richard Avedon’s archives to Omar Apollo concert tickets, photographer BJ Pascual has compiled his holiday wishlist for your shopping pleasure.
‘Tis the season for giving. Vogue Philippines talks to tastemakers and style mavens about what sought-after pieces they’re eyeing this year. BJ Pascual’s wish list mixes vintage with tailored pieces, gastronomical cravings, and tickets to an Omar Apollo concert.
Through his photography, BJ Pascual transforms his static subjects into striking and candid celebrity portraits. His images have graced the covers of a slew of publications (over 300 and counting), all showing a subtle combination of softness and empowerment.
His distinct style has led to shoots with household names like Elsa Hosk, Coco Rocha, Sky Ferreira, Pietro Boselli, and Noah Centineo. Vibrant, sharp, and expressive, his images demonstrate the human side of fashion.
From a nude model within a dream-like atmosphere to a flashy and feverish photograph reminiscent of Studio 54, every photograph communicates a distinct narrative with unparalleled dynamism.
Pascual’s portfolio is as eclectic as his interests. His “love for vintage fashion, photography, food, and music” is reflected in his holiday wishlist, which he shared with Vogue Philippines.
He constantly embraces a creative imagination and his own sense of self in all aspects of his life. When asked why he chose the BODE jacket he says he just loves “how personal this piece is. The team sends a questionnaire and interviews you for the personalized illustrations to be placed on the jacket.”
Pascual nods to the past for inspiration, seen through his picks. He mentions that he chose Richard Avedon’s archives because “he’s one of [his] biggest influences and [he’d] love to have a peek at his life’s work in chronological order.”
An avid Nicholas Ghesquière fan, Pascual has been collecting pieces from his Balenciaga collections since he was a teenager.“I was so fascinated with how he started so many trends from that time,” he shares. “[The Balenciaga SS2002 cargo pants] started the cargo pant trend in the early 2000s and I really want [them].”
Meanwhile, the Miznon roasted cauliflower takes him back to a time before the pandemic when he was globe-trotting. “I cannot wait to do it again in the coming year,” the creative says.
The Patricia Urquiola Bend Sofa highlighted his penchant for interior decorating since he’s currently in the midst of moving to a new home.
A believer in self-care, Pascual selects the Patek Philippe vintage Calatrava watch for an indulgent treat. “I was going to buy this last year as a gift for myself, but got sidetracked by a vintage Audemars Piguet Royal Oak,” he says.
A self-professed Omar Apollo devotee, Pascual adds a sought-after pair of the artist’s tickets to his coveted holiday gift roster.
For Pascual, the holidays represent moments with the people who are important to him—a time to show his appreciation to his loved ones.
“It’s a time to reflect and be thankful for all the great things that have happened in the past year,” he says.
