CEBU, Philippines - Indeed, the launch of One Cebu Expo at the newly refurbished Capitol Social Hall gathered this city’s pride with world recognizable names like Cary Santiago, Butch Carungay of Avatar and Kenneth Cobonpue, showcasing standout collection of haute couture outfits, accessories and furniture, respectively.
Cary Santiago, an avid net surfer, let loose another set of silk cocoon clad glamazons, (heroines as he called them) with kohl raccoon eyes, pouf hair ala Athena and stretch tulle gloves simulating the warrior effect. In the past, he worshipped at the altar of the stretch jersey with nary a trace of embellishments and that went on for several seasons. Recently, his predilection towards more supple fabric like silk cocoon and organdy resulted in an extreme mix in the style spectrum. “I always want to dress up the strong woman but she doesn’t have to wear armor-like clothes,” bravely declared the reclusive designer. Though his styling of strong eyes, chiseled face and structured coiffure had sometimes overshadowed the main event, this time it was all about the clothes: More feminine and well thought out than previous seasons,
His recent line featured ankle-length silk shirtdresses, drop-waist frocks, and plenty of voluminous flowing dresses (one standout had an Empire-pleated back that finished off in a trail). Though the look was slightly more feminine—and definitely modern – Santiago’s signature laser cut passementerie had nostalgic notions and definitely pushed this world-class label forward on another notch.
Bravissimo!