Ray Kuan Stylemeister

To be hailed by Mega, Zee and Preview magazines as one of the hottest young designers is an honor not bestowed on anyone and surely a most welcome feather in any aesthete's cap. In the recently launched book "O" by Jon Unson and stylist Romero Vergara, one of the few recognizable designers featured is none other than Ray Kuan, propped up as a heavily hennaed Beijing opera character juxtaposed with a closely cropped pirate devouring the tools of the rag trade. So what makes him tick? Or more specifically, what makes this reclusive/exclusive designer click?

Patronized by Cebu and Manila society dauphines, glossy magazine editors and anyone else with a streak for style, Ray Kuan is this fashion moment's enfante terrible. "I have a strong affinity to things that are rich, heavy with high drama and making a statement. And most of all, I like to put chaos in order and vice-versa!" bravely pronounced the artist. Thus, his recent collection is aptly lauded as chaotic harmony. A Fortuny pleated bodice dress, complete with lady-like bows, has transparent jersey sleeves ripped to various stages of decay. A dress that model Melanie Ediza just couldn't resist! She wore it with aplomb during the above-mentioned book launch. A contemporary looking satin wedding dress, beaded and corseted, has, at close range, a precariously draped and twisted neckline in stretch jersey. His take on the Edwardian era by unveiling a rich brocade Thai silk gown with leg of mutton sleeves but inverted, showing the seams out complete with a cameo. Another take is a translucent frosted gazaar blouse with high collar that featured waves of ruffles, ripped and frayed to perfection.

"I think there is a trend away from colder, minimalist and contemporary clothes to something that is a little bit plush, warm and eclectic enough to be a conversation piece," quipped Ray Kuan. In the end, anyone can do a collection. Ray Kuan's distinctive brand of couture, however, requires a more irreverent touch. It is as much about what is omitted as what is included. After all, in this stylemeister's world, there is order in chaos and vice versa.