Light Luxe

 “That’s what modern luxe is all about: light and flowy, not heavy and cumbersome,” quipped Runway Production’s main man Joey Espino, in a voice within earshot to everyone. He was addressing fashion designer Ren Manabat seconds after the conclusion of Luxe Wear A, the first fashion show immediately after the Philippine Fashion Week opening at the SMX, the newest convention center beside the SM Mall of Asia.

Elation seeped into Ren Manabat’s exhausted face upon hearing such a wonderful remark. After all, his collection of red and black chiffon with nary a trace of beadwork was, thus far, so breezy and relaxed compared to collection after collection of heavy ornamentation of voluminous gowns and dresses that included veiled pill box hats, humongous earpieces, chunky boots and gigantic bags that would make Tessa Prieto’s usual garb look tame. At the very least, Ms. Prieto pulls it off, while some poor models looked ridiculous on the runway (and even down right silly, backstage).

Upon close scrutiny, though, what registered on the runway as easy pieces were in fact, strips of fabric cut on the bias, attached meticulously at the seams by hand and, for added aesthetic effect, adorned with concentric rings of silver that finished off as straps, belts, neckpieces and clasps strategically positioned. Though most of his line is in a Greek toga variation, touches of modernity also became evident with his high-waisted palazzo trousers and hot pants and, surprise!, hand-stitched cabbage roses that perched freely on the shoulders!

Bravissimo!

WRITER’S NOTE: Be one of us! M.A.C.>Models Association of Cebu (a high fashion print and runway agency) is in need of a new line up of female and male models to join our roster of top models. Female applicants should have a minimum height of 5 feet and 7 inches and for male applicants, 5 feet and 11 inches. For inquiries, please call 0197 6302400 or 0917 2717177.