Fashion finds at Manila Fame 2014

Fashion in the now is about the new. Manila Fame is one of the great platforms where local talent showcase their artistry. Captivating the eyes of the world, both seasoned and up and coming designers unite in a display of oustanding Filipino artistry. Brilliant creativity, global designs and oustanding craftsmanship combined define contemporary masterpieces  made by the finest and best in the country.  The code of perfection has remarkably pushed the envelope as it raises the benchmark to international standard with a high degree of quality and excellence. Here is a glimpse of why stylephiles, fashion followers and the likes should come to Manila FAME

Modern Tribe. Neckpiece by Joanique.

Seat to the throne.  Chair by Nicole Whisenhunt.

Mida's clutch!  Mother of pearl clutch by Emi Jorge.

Dapper steps.  Lace up shoes by Maco Custodio.

Color coded!  Colored clutches by Carisaa Cruz Evangelista for Beatriz.

Belted interest.  Belt with gold buckle by Aranaz.

Bold Moves.  Sculptural "Monolith" woven bag by Zacharias by SC Vizcarra.

Holiday Escape

Christmas season isn't just all about cityscape events and all those formalities.  For some, it's the best time to enjoy the company of good friends and family at the beach.  Yes, for those who shy away from the spotlight, rushing to any any beach destination is the perfect getaway from the maddening city life.  This holiday, international bag brand ARANAZ recently came out with their season's collection with some beach-worthy creations.  Bask under the sunshine and hit the shores with these fashionable totes and bags that will definitely add up to your pre-summer seashore look.  These must-haves are definitely on the radar not just for the holidays but for the season to come.

A different kind of weave

Last week the Fashion Design Council of the Philippines announced the finalists in both accessories and RTW for their "Weaving the Future" design competition held at JUMP--the new hub at the 4F SM Megamall.  Philippine fashion goes beyond all that flash as it steers towards developing consciousness in the style landscape by integrating the building of livelihood for fashion and supporting these communities.  Through these efforts, promotion of both talent and indigenous materials are achieved so as to support their significance and relevance to the future of local fashion.  Hand in hand, the event was graced by both media and fashion insiders to further this noble endeavor.  The bigger picture here is really for the industry to collectively work as one team in the hopes of building a brighter future for artists, suppliers, communities in the world of Philippine fashion.  And yes, fashion does have a cause.

The venue.

The crowd.

Fashion designer's Ivarluski Aseron and Tippie Ocampo with Stylebible's Isha Andaya.

Fashion stylist/director Lotho.

Style Weekend EIC Liza Ilarde Cuenca and Look magazine's EIC Mel Cuevas.

Designer Vic Barba.

Designer's Avel Bacudio and Randy Ortiz.

FDCP President JC Buendia.

Crowd control.

SOFA's Amina Aranaz Alunan gives a short talk.

The twenty finalists in both RTW and Accessories categories with FDCP President JC Buendia and Amina Aranaz Alunan.

The Fashion Design Council of the Philippines(from left) Randy Oritz, Joey Escober, Gerry Katigbak, Tippie Ocampo, Amina Aranaz Alunan, JC Beundia, Tonichi Nocom, Dong Omaga Diaz, Vic Barba, Gerry Sunga, Avel Bacudio and Ramon Esteban.

Picture Play with designer Ivar Aseron, Look magazine's Mel Cuevas, designer Tonich Nocom, the author and  Style Weekend's Liza Ilarde Cuenca.

The author in a printed blazer by Joey Samson, v-neck top by Uniqlo, pants
 by Zara, glasses by Firma, shoes by Margiela and convertible tote by Celine.

What's News

What's new in Manila's retail scene?  Well, if you're into chic flats and want to get into the youthful school spirit then Shoebox may have the right thing to keep you cheering.  The latest collection featuring classic flats in loafer inspired design comes in your favorite alma mater hue.  With eight cute color combinations to choose from, these everyday dependables are definitely stylish and good for walking.  So which school are you from?

After last season's bold color blocking, graphic appeal is still on the radar in the coming months ahead.  Retail brand Tint is currently taking the minimalist look with a twist in refreshing tones with hints of detailing.  From bold to subdued, the latest collection is echoing a feel of modern simplicity. Chic graphics are moving to new territories and is here to stay. 

Environmental is chic.  Now on their third year, Echostore continues to bring to the market organic and recycled products that contribute to rebuilding and saving our planet.  Aimed in promoting a sustainable lifestyle, the selfless brand continues to support communities in creating and developing a variety of alternative products(from consumer to fashion to household) that are harmless to our environment and make a difference. 

 

Cebu jewelry designer Dianne Espera is celebrating 4 years in the retail business with SEPA.  Quirky, stylish and trendy, the small scale jewelry brand has come a long way and is definitely one of Cebu's pride.  SEPA's chic standout creations come in limited quantities and are quite affordable.  In Manila, these must-have pieces are available in TRU(2F Powerplant Mall) and Religioso(2F Greenbelt 5). 

In fashion, change is inevitable.  The notable Philippe's salon is moving to higher grounds under a new name "ELEVATION".  Distinct and established in the salon industry, their trendy and up to date approach to hair care is remarkably one of the best in the town.  There are no new faces, same team but with new offerings which is something to look forward to.  ELEVATION is the hair apparent and one of the frontliners in the business noteworthy of cutting-edge style.

And from the country's pride in bags marked by global distinction, ARANAZ creates another masterpiece made from coconut shell--the PAVO REAL bag.  Loving the ingenious creativity and high level of craftsmanship to produce this work of art that represent the excellence of Pinoy talent.  A statement piece that's definitely a must-buy and something the Filipinos can be proud of.

The PAVO REAL bag from the ARANAZ DELUJO Collection: made of coconut shell with 24K dipped gold and turquoise stones.

Fashion Relevance

The Philippines is a vast landscape of creativity.  The richness of our arts and culture is a testament of outstanding and remarkable talent in the country.  The local fashion industry is one facet that has triumphed international competitions and have brought accolades to this growing nation. Leading and honing young design talents to a promising future is the highly reputable Fashion Design Council of the Philippines(FDCP). Since 1998, the FDCP has produced the Philippine Fashion Design Competition (PFDC) aimed at mentoring potential talents in preparation for various design competitions all over the world. 


This year, with the leadership of their current president designer JC Buendia, the FDCP unfolded the latest edition of the PFDC entitled “Weaving the Future: A Social Design Competition” last June 29 at the Mandarin Hotel, Manila.  Through this competition, the council encourages fashion with a purpose-- discovering new talent to create design with social relevance.  With that in mind, this initiative aims to provide sustainable livelihood for regional communities through design.  Furthermore, this creates awareness and promotion for the development of products made from indigenous weaves, materials and crafts. 


The FDCP is composed of the country's unwavering brilliant designers namely Edwin Ao, Ivarluski Aseron, PJ Aranador, Avel Bacudio, Vittorio Barba, JC Buendia, Joey Enriquez, Ramon Esteban, Arcy Gayatin, Len Nepomuceno-Guiao, Oj Hofer, Gerry Katigbak, Rajo Laurel, Jojie Lloren, Anthony Nocom, Tippi Ocampo, Dong Omaga-Diaz, Randy Ortiz, Frederick Peralta, Joey Samson, Hindy Weber-Tantoco, Jerome Ang, Amina Aranaz-Alunan, Joel Escober, Gerry Sunga , Cary Santiago and as well as their Advisory Board Members: Lulu Tan Gan, Josie Natori and Cesar Gaupo.

Designer Rajo Laurel with model donning his Pintados inspired gown made
from hand-painted tattoo techniques with wood and shell beads. PINOY CHIC!

Designer Gerry Katigbak with model donning his Pina fiber creation inspired
by the Barong Tagalog.

Designer Jerome Salaya-Ang with model donning his electric pleated creation
in dyed Pina fiber.

Designer Tippi Ocampo with model donning her Jusi mini tuxedo dress with
bell sleeves accented with mother of pearl discs & paillettes.

Designer Joel Escober with model donning his Jute fabric creation with
distressed details on the neckline.

Celebrity Ambassadors Uber model Tweetie de Leon-Gonzalez, bag designer
Amina Aranaz Alunan and Phil Star columnist Mons Romulo.

Designer Frederick Peralta with model donning his illustrado inspired
ensemble of Pina trapeze top with ruffled bell sleeves over mikado silk
palazzo pantsuit.

 Lulu Tan-Gan's creation is a 30's inspired handcrafted "Pina & Knitwear" 

for the jet set.

Hindy Weber-Tantoco's pina masterpiece creation reflects architectural
femininity with old-world romance.

For those aspiring a career in design and who want to partake in this endeavor, the mechanics for the competition are as follows:

1)  The Philippine Fashion Design Council has two divisions: Apparel and Accessories (fashion and home décor). For Apparel, applicants must submit three (3) design entries each consisting of a 3-5 pieces collection for the modern day man or woman while Accessories Division applicants must submit three (3) one-piece design entries for home or fashion all true to the theme “Weaving the Future: A Social Design Competition” 

2)  A Developmental Business Plan must be submitted along with the design entries for the judges to gauge the social impact of the applicant’s entry. The plan consists of the following: PEOPLE: Who and how many will benefit?  PLANET: What are the organic materials? PROFIT: How much profit can be expected? POSITIVE INFLUENCE: What is the overall impact you hope to achieve with your plan?

3)   Applications will be screened according to the following criteria: Originality and excellence in interpreting the theme “Weaving the Future” (35%); Marketability (20%); Execution and workmanship (20%) and Social Impact (25%)

 Finally, entries will be trimmed down to the top 20 finalists, hailing 10 best entries for each division.  Each finalist will then be paired with a Social Entrepreneur, a Livelihood Officer and Community Representative that will ensure that the Business Development plan can be executed. Finalists will be enrolled in an extensive mentoring program headed by FDCP’s own Dong Omaga-Diaz and Jojie Lloren. The School of Fashion and the Arts will also facilitate a customized training module for all finalists during the Mentoring Phase of the competition. Winners will be announced during the Finals Night, to be held at PAGCOR Grand Theater in November 22, 2011. 

FDCP Members Rajo Laurel, Amina Aranaz-Alunan, Randy Ortiz, Tippi Ocampo, JC Buendia, Gerry Katigbak, Vic Barba, Tonichi Nocom, Frederick Peralta and Jerome Salaya-Ang.

Interested applicants may send their complete and filled-out PFDC Application Form with a scanned copy of all required materials to weavingthefuture@gmail.com on or before August 1, 2011. Application Forms and Guidelines are available at www.pldtwatchpad.com and may be requested through mobile number +63949-688-5230.Weaving the Future: A Social Design Competition is presented by FDCP together with PAGCOR, in cooperation with benchPINOYlab, with SM and The School of Fashion and the Arts (SoFA) and powered by PLDTmyDSL & SMART.

Aranaz Summer

Design signature.

The heat is on as style begins to sizzle under the scorching sun.  Fashion unveils the latest chic pieces which are ready to hit the beach with all things sunny side up.  Hot and on the radar brand Aranáz recently had their private trunk show to present their Spring/Summer collection 2011 held at Hidalgo Place, Rockwell. The 59 piece collection, showcased export quality and design of distinct Aranaz trademark recognized all over the world. Indigenous materials fused with contemporary style result to quirky and playful expositions of fashion forward artistry.  One can't help but notice the wonderful hand-crafting and modern perspective incorporated in each designed piece.  A standout brand taking the lead in producing local fashion of global appeal Filipinos will definitely be proud of in the international market. The invitational event offered 15% off on everything plus a limited edition run of one-of-a-kind selection of clothes and accessories via Aranáz Ropas y Complementos.  Truly an invitation local stylesetters couldn't refuse.

Aranáz Complementos' bangles and clip-on in floral refinement.

Unique Starfish snakeskin clutches to give a simple ensemble that added punch.

Amanpulo black or white crochet beaded bags rate high on the style meter.

The trademark in an assortment of summer's ultimate finds.

The color to wear now in limited edition selection of Aranaz Ropas.

Sibling revelry.  Rosanna Aranaz and Amina Aranaz Alunan both beauty and brains behind the famed bags, clothes and accessories brand.

Aside from their fashion retail business, Amina Aranaz Alunan is currently the Executive Director for Communications & Admissions- School of Fashion & the Arts(SOFA) and is a pioneer and co-founder behind the internationally recognized learning institution which the author is involved in as part of the faculty.  In line with this, SOFA offers fun interesting workshops you might want to consider during the summer to quench your fashion thirst.