The Hydrangea Series

CEBU, Philippines - After the last  model finished  her final walk at  the One Cebu Expo 2012 featuring Philip Rodriguez and the Best of Cebu, there were a bit of confusion as the invited guests partook of the sumptuous lunch prepared by Café Laguna. Would someone be taking a bow? There was the briefest glimpse of a figure who turned out to be no other than Cebu's fashion czar, designer Philip Rodriguez. Why the delay? He was busy shaking hands from the dignitaries gathered, including the expo's progenitor, Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia.

Once again the cavernous Plenary Hall of the Cebu International Convention Center witnessed the Best of Cebu with the recently concluded One Cebu Expo 2012. Rodriguez' Hydrangea series, at least going by its elegantly worded show notes, was "the result of conscientious attention to details." And in its very commercially slanted pragmatism, it had the feel of design by superb insight-though certainly not an untalented one. The collection ably touched on all the house's codes of timeless albeit sexy and ruched chiffon dresses, and soft tapered silk pants and jumpsuits in splashy floralia — specifically Hydrangea prints. These were inspired of course by the exotic flower. There were ruffles on peplumed tops and tiered skirts.

Few designers are better positioned to take their audience on a virtual tour of Cebu's blooms and hot spots than Philip Rodriguez who is also a tourism commissioner. Certainly, for a house that has in recent seasons seen the extremes of galas and high profile parties, it was markedly restrained yet very fluid. Many looks, including embellished and pleated dresses, were cinched with a simple, slim belt, and aside from a few sequined evening pieces and the plissé appliqué snaking around necklines, a light hand was taken with excess flourishes. Overall, it turned to be what Rodriguez is known for — elements, elegance, taste, timelessness. Bravissimo!