Top talent agency for fashion, makeup, and styling opens PHL branch

Think you have what it takes to make it in fashion, whether your strength is photography, makeup, or styling?

Jed Root, Inc., a top global agency for fashion photographers, makeup artists, and stylists, opened its first Southeast Asian branch in Manila earlier in April, with the "objective of championing Asian talents worldwide."

“By establishing our presence in Manila, we will be working with clients and talents in various key cities," said founder Jed Root, who named the Philippine venture At East | Jed Root.

Jed Root is behind the success of internationally-renowned names in fashion photography, makeup, and styling such as Kevyn Aucoin, Laura Mercier, Joe Zee and Dick Page. The talents he represents work in high profile fashion shows and editorials in New York, London,Tokyo, Paris and Los Angeles.

In an interview with South China Morning Post, Root said he chose Manila because of its "very Western but Asian" aesthetic. The synergy, he said, and its location made it the perfect hub for talents from countries like Hong Kong, Thailand, and Jakarta.

"In particular, the Philippines is enjoying a robust economic revival. These market dynamics are a breeding ground for homegrown brands who will want to work with creative talents that understand the local cultural sensibilities," Root said in a statement.

Root is also considering opening offices in Jakarta, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Vietnam, and China.

More than its perfect location, Root said he aims to nurture and manage talents already present in the Philippines.

“I truly think that the Philippines has immense creative pool and excellent taste. There is much untapped talent to explore here," he said, and added, "By coming to the Philippines, I hope to do the same and to bring something new and innovative to the industry here."

Established in 1989, Jed Root, Inc. boasts clientele whose models walked Lanvin, Givenchy, and Alexander McQueen runways, among others, in fashion meccas such as Milan, according to The Ground. — Rie Takumi/VC, GMA News