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.

Tastemakers

Stealth is wealth.  There is a certain allure uncommon pieces have that makes them quite a novelty. Scarcity transcends into uniqueness and with this comes their most sought after attractions. They become the most-wanted and the must-haves until they have reached a certain level of popularity and diffuse into the vast landscape called mainstream.
A paradise of rare discoveries recently opened at Power Plant Mall in Rockwell called Cura V.  Founded by Emi Jorge, Kai Lim, Nicole Whisenhunt, Trisha Calma and Camille Ongpauco, this treasure trove of rarities is a lifestyle concept store which houses an eclectic mix of under the radar brands, up and coming designers together with established artists in fashion and design. 
Cura V, which means curated by five in Latin, is a well edited and manicured artists studio which serves as an exhibit space to showcase contemporary objects d’ art.  A feast for the senses, the discerning list includes Kai(body & fragrances), Anthousa(diffusers), Voluspa(candles, diffusers), Thomas Paul(home), Michelle d'Albert(home), Pure Rugs(home), Fallon(Jewelry), Chan Luu(Men's Jewelry), 13 Lucky Monkeys, Nicole Whisenhunt, Joyce Makitalo, Michelline Syjuco, Joanique, Natalya Lagdameo, Emi Jorge(Bags), Gabriel-Martel (Bags) and Joanique(Bags). Cura V boasts of  in house designs-candles and globally sourced novelty items sold exclusively at the boutique such as servers, trays, boxes, jewelry, candle holders, vases and home decor. Soon to come are Taschen books and globally renowned Alexis Bittar.
Cura V is a distinct perspective displaying an exhibition of the both tradition and contemporary.  Within its well designed space lies a visual spectacle of noteworthy exclusives where everyone wants to have and to hold.  Defining a priceless threshold for the uncommon, Cura V exemplifies luxe in a well-thought of point of view beyond the ordinary.

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.