Fashion Watch: OJ HOFER and DENNIS LUSTICO

Haven't seen a fashion show in ages. This author's work of late has been doing a lot of backstage stuff and has never gotten the chance to sit down with the audience and really watch a show. Last Thursday, despite the busy schedule, I was able to finally play the press role and headed to the Lobby Lounge of Shangri-La Makati to see FASHION WATCH QUARTET 2011 FEATURING OJ HOFER AND DENNIS LUSTICO. Had to rush going there and was lucky to be in the good company of Look Editor in Chief Melanie Cuevas, designers Joey Samson, Ivar Aseron and Veejay Floresca (who was kind enough to share his table with us since the venue was super packed). Fashion personalities, journalists, society figures and clients filled the lounge wearing their most stylish dressy casual ensembles waiting in excitement for the unfolding of the holiday collections of two of the most talented designers in the Philippines today. The show started on time and was fascinated that both collections celebrated the season's front-liner and continuing trend for Fall-Winter--color. The models ethereally paraded the lounge area, coloring the scene in beautiful hues as if painting the late afternoon with much delight.

OJ HOFER’s Angkorian Ether collection for Fashion Watch Quartet took inspiration from the Devatas and Apsaras women carved around Angkor Wat. Languid and fluid expositions in the art of drapery showcases the artistic brilliance of this young master. Color theories were flowing blissfully in bay leaf greens, Vishnu blue to different shades of gold--what a sight to behold. Complimenting the beautiful masterpieces were the wide belts and armor-like gold accessories which gave the entire look a hint of sophisticated edge. From the trend spotting designer pieces, this author picked a few of his favorites.

Electric pleats look fab in long proportions.

These wide-leg pants is chic with an edge.

Sophisticated back detailing is always red carpet ready. 

Must-have belt and cuff complete the look with stellar appeal. 

Super love this ensemble, the right color and accessories makes this look
style perfect.

Go with the flow with the season's color and fabric.

Designer Oj Hofer(center) with his collection.

DENNIS LUSTICO'S collection on the other was a reflection inspired from one of our local cultural custom and tradition--the Barrio Fiesta. The colorful festivity of fashion and style were interpreted elegantly in bright reds, blues and nude highlighted with accents of luxe crystals and beadworks. Soft and luxurious fabrics displayed in modern fluidity were echoed throughout the outstandingly seamless collection. Precious separates, beautiful dresses and regal gowns take a contemporary spin on elegance and definitely something any woman of style and substance would want to wear. Lustico's pursuit for design excellence shows in impeccable design and form his arresting showcase of contemporary fashion. Noteworthy too are the attention grabbing modern clutches by shoe and bag designer Emi Jorge.

The sexy in beads never fail to capture the eye.

Love the back detail. 

The epitome of chic sophistication.

Modern style in picture perfect color combination.

Yellow beads with a long tailored skirt is a sure class act.

My favorite piece, it spells fashion standout.

In the nude.

Designer Dennis Lustico with his collection.

Love orchids.

Young designer Veejay Floresca.

Escario's  prized possession--Hilky.

Look magazine's EIC Melanie Cuevas.

Design duo Ivar Aseron and Joey Samson.

Sweet treats.

The good old days. Former Fashion Editor of Preview Magazine Camille Cruz in Rajo Laurel top for Plains and Prints and the author in an Ivar Aseron Aztec inspired caftan.

Fashion Watch 2011 is at the Lobby Lounge of Makati Shangri-La from 3-6pm, directed by Grace Molina, hair and makeup by Patrick Rosas and creative direction The Prince of Philippine Fashion--Inno Sotto.  The must-see series is presented by Olay, Makati Shangri-la Hotel, Philippine Star, Preview Magazine, Starworld and Stylebible.ph in cooperation with major sponsors BMW and Metro Pacific Investments.