MANILA, Philippines - Moda Cebuana, the fashion finale for One Cebu which featured the different creations of bridal designers, might as well have been dubbed Boda Cebuana after it produced a striking collection far from the signature and ubiquitous draped jersey dresses.
The show definitely earned a nod from Governor Gwendolyn Garcia, the progenitor of One Cebu, and much more. The not-so-subtle message of the show offered clues as to what was to come for brides-to-be. It featured a heavily pleated and ruffled bustier traje de boda from wedding connoisseur Philip Rodriguez; a striking and confident assertion of femininity.
With quiet assuredness, young designers Ivan Bilocura and Bethoveen Bachiller, introduced crinkled silks, crepes and georgettes into a typically all-jersey world and showed a greater variety of detailing sans embroidery and beading. Slimming silhouetted bodice with sweeping trains came from the creative minds of Jun Escario and William Manahan. Funnel-collared beaded and embroidered tops, some with contrasting ribbon trim, were offered by Marichu Tan and Wendell Quisido paired with equally detailed pleated skirts. The latter was handled with the typical skill, but a welcome addition was the translucence and sparkle that were still the standouts, completing a glitzy bride. The gowns left as much of an impression going as they did coming, since each one had more than one rich detail. The most dramatic of the lot had silk ribbon straps that plunged into a V to form a mind-boggling cathedral like serpentine skirt from none other than Clothes for Life president Cary Santiago (to be featured in the next issue).
What was most remarkable about the show was that it escaped both the predictability of Grecian undertones typically attached to draped chiffon and jersey pieces and the overt yet over-indulged references to Madame Grès or Valentino. Instead of floating like deities, the models swished by with the assurance of mortal goddesses in the 21st century. Bravissimo!