Presidencia Through the Years

CEBU, Philippines - What better way in commemorating the Mandaue Presidencia (City hall) on its 75th year anniversary than by looking at it in a fashionable way? Thus, amidst pyrotechnics and a starlit Mandaue sky, Cebu's celebrated designers the likes of Protacio, Jun Escario, Anthony Romoff, Peewee Senining, Dino Lloren, Philip Tampus, Philip Rodriguez and Cary Santiago unveiled their collections dubbed Era, a hodgepodge of style inspired by the 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, 2000s and the present as seen through the eyes of the featured designers.

After inking a deal with the Mandaue organizers, the designers swung back to work then showed a spirited collection for Presidencia (inaugurated on September 12, 1937, dubbed so as it was used by El Presidente or Mayor in the Commonwealth era). According to the designers, collectively, its all about "demure luxury," which they evoked with delicate care as they unveiled their inspirations through the years. The demure part of the equation is owing to Mandaue's disdain for excessive ostentation. Dino Lloren popped in a range of jewel toned dresses with pillbox hats by Shandar, but he also made a new push into separates, with sharp peacoats and pantsuits, very 40s. If he himself were getting ready for a night out back in time, Protacio would take the women clad in his appliqued bubble or peplumed dresses. Philip Tampus' cool separates, a belted jumpsuit and pouf close to ankle grazing length dress reeked 60s glam, while Jun Escario's molded to the body shiny column dresses were oh so chic 70s. The 80s look had Peewee Senining's psychedelic colored flowing dresses bejeweled and adorned a la Dynasty.

Clean lines and shantung, one of the most luxurious fabrics blended easily as Anthony Rommoff's 90s inspired volume dresses hit the runway. 2000s to the present have more fun ideas as Philip Rodriguez and Cary Santiago redefined contemporary dressing with their own brand of style, along with the other featured designers, as seen in this spread. The former with muted colors and subdued beading and the latter with ultrasheen patterned peek a boo gowns perfect for today's glamazons! Bravissimo! (FREEMAN)