A Matter of Style

The next in fashion.

LOOK Magazine, Inquirer Lifestyle,  and the British Council of the Philippines launched recently the second LOOK Of Style Awards.  The search is on for the next big thing in the Philippine design and style landscape.  The prestigious nationwide competition aims to support the next generation of Filipino designers to pursue their business plans and jump start a career in fashion.  This remarkable collaborative effort of the British Council of the Philippines, LOOK and Inquirer Lifestyle addresses the need to back up young thriving artists to sustain their presence and consistency in the artistic field and industry as well.  This fusion  through the arts used as the medium and platform for creative expositions strengthens the relations between both countries as well.

Fashioning robotics.(photo from Look magazine)

Last years Look Of Style Awards winner Pablo Cabahug bested the list of hand picked design aspirants with his futuristic collection inspired by "robotics".  The talented ingenue showcased an outstanding take on one of the country's pride in indigenous materials- the jusi.  Brilliant creativity defined in electric pleating, pin tucking and folds fused with metal trimmings displayed fantastical appeal in modern silhouettes.  Since then, Cabahug's work consistently appeared in top glossies, broadsheets and has participated in prestigious fashion shows in the country. Recently, the promising designer just came back after finishing a short course at London's prestigious Central St. Martins (part of his prize among others).  Armed with fresh insights and renewed perspectives, Pablo Cabahug is set on making a mark in the local industry.

Look of Style 2010 grand prize winner designer Pablo Cabahug(center) with his collection.
(photo from Look magazine)

To qualify, applicants should have the following:
1)  An established, primary design business in the Philippines.
2)  A minimum of two consecutive years of design experience (i.e., have garnered substantial and recent editorial coverage, have professional staff that can devote the time and effort required to accomplish the stated aims of an applicant’s design career plans).
The criteria for judging are as follows:  construction technique (35%), design skill and interpretation of theme (35%), overall presentation and visual impact (15%), and design marketability (15%).
There will be a go-see where all applicants will required to attend to showcase their portfolio and actual samples of their creations of which 10 finalists will be chosen.  The ten finalists will undergo an interview and presentation of 5 looks from past, present, and upcoming collections to the panel based on this year's theme "Stylish Tech"(inspired from science and technology). The winner will be given an all-expenses paid trip to the United Kingdom where he/she will have the opportunity to enrol in a short course of his/her choice in London’s prestigious Central Saint Martins. He or she will receive business mentoring from fashion industry professionals in areas such as business planning, marketing, etc., as well as a spot in Inquirer Lifestyle’s next Face Off Fashion Show.

For interested applicants, check www.facebook.com/lookmagazineph or follow us on www.twitter.com/lookmagazineph for go-see schedules and updates on the competition.