THE COMPANY WE KEEP

(First of Two Parts)

Summer heat rose to sizzling degrees as The Company We Keep fashion show launched its one-of-a-kind swimwear that will transform any frog to a beach god and goddess. Stylist cum designer par excellence Albert Arriba, who opened the show in the fashion arena that's the Teatro Casino of Waterfront Cebu City Hotel showed pieces inspired by Olympus. Talk about couture maillot, tankinis and bikinis with beaded and embroidered togas as fabulous cover ups that would inspire Venus' and Apollo's envy.

"Just because you are going to the beach does not mean that you have to dress up like a beach bum or worse, a drenched ugly duckling that won't have a chance to become a beautiful swan," quipped the amiable Albert Arriba. Thus, his swimwear line evokes of glamour and chic from the beach to an evening soiree. From the boring and ubiquitous beach cover ups, his are in metallic satin and crocheted anorak, pleated crepe silk and beaded togas, sarongs, vests and drawstring pants for men in delectable colors.

"Besides, this great cover ups can be styled in different ways when the summer is over. But then again, it's summer all year round here in our island paradise of Cebu. Though my clothes will still make you stand out whether you are in Cote de Azure, Pattaya in Thailand or Bora Bora, Tahiti!" concluded Albert Arriba.