ASEAN'S Fab Five

CEBU, Philippines - The much-publicized acceptance of our beloved city as ASEAN’s City of Culture for Creative Industry launched a flurry of rumors and speculation about who was the driving force and talents behind the intriguing line. An intimate international crowd gathered for the gala show to witness the 25-piece collection of Arcy Gayatin, Jun Escario, Oj Hofer, Philip Rodriguez and Cary Santiago.

Anyone familiar with the theatrical designer’s personal style could recognize his own wardrobe favorites throughout, particularly in fluid cum tribal accents for Oj Hofer’s Malay-inspired line. Nostalgic references to España were evident in Philip Rodriguez’ drapes and lace, with manton swinging freely. The strongest pieces in this first outing were Arcy Gayatin’s America!, with elegant big haired models. Another version of foreign influence was Chinoiserie Chic by Jun Escario, experimental but still wearable. Each piece in the collection had distinct details; one with oversized buttoned belt loops merits particular mention. The silk brocade tulip trousers were a stunner.

For the most part, Cary Santiago’s Cebu Today! out matched his tailoring. Some sporty skirts and a pair of evergreen textured silk shorts were among the more viable takes on jaunty separates, but an off-the-shoulder linen silk blouse was a more singular statement. Two modern men’s wear - one with a linen coat and a jusi undershirt - closed the show on a high note. If the collection, overall, was a mix of hits and more hits, it was a triumphant one. With it, they proved that Cebuano designers are truly global.

Credits:

M.A.C.>Models Association of Cebu (0917 6302400) Directed by Engr. Junjet Primor

Maquillage by Emi Ayag and Ramil Solis assisted by Aries Marabe, Jude Gabato, Jingjing Manching, Jay Failanga and Rey Abella (FREEMAN)