The Art of Francis Libiran, Internationally-Acclaimed Designer

CEBU, Philippines – Though he is now best known for the intricate, ethereal designs that have graced countless red carpets, pageant stages, and fashion editorials, Francis Libiran's meticulous eye for detail and comprehension of visual beauty was first honed and utilized in the vastly different field of architecture. Drafting tables soon made way for the designer's sketchbook, however, and though the licensed architect still turns to his first profession for inspiration, studying lines, interiors and blueprints, it is as a fashion designer that his talent and sense of aesthetics truly shines.

Libiran traverses between architecture and fashion design; he has been able to lay claim to a place on the international stage, dressing supermodels, celebrities and beauty queens like Tyra Banks, Anne Curtis, and Megan Young.

This year, his talent has been tapped by global brand Havaianas for a new collection that puts the Philippine artist firmly in the pantheon of international designers, brands and personalities, who have collaborated with the iconic footwear company for its sought-after limited edition releases.

Driven by its principles of melding fun, fashion and creativity, Havaianas is no stranger to artistic partnerships that result in some of the most successful collaborations in the industry. From the signature chevron of Missoni and the minimalism of Bassike, to the luxurious sophistication of Valentino and the urban edge of Michael Bastian, Havaianas has worked with artists across the globe resulting in a seemingly endless spectrum of creativity. Francis Libiran for Havaianas is the brand's first full collaboration with a local fashion designer.

The collection's limited-edition designs are all inspired by the Philippines and the designer's Filipino backround as seen through the eyes of the artist himself, with Libiran's signature aesthetics boldly incorporated into each piece. A self-confessed fan of the Havaianas brand, Libiran says, "I personally have to have my Havaianas every summer, so when they told me about the project, I was really excited. They're number one in the world, so to have your name on Havaianas is something."

He adds, "Flip-flops are ingrained in Philippine culture, so I could only imagine the statement my designs would make on them. Because people use them everyday, I thought some people would question why they would be so designed, because they're just flip-flops, but for me, it's about creating wearable pieces of art."

A Francis Libiran exhibit is ongoing at the Ayala Center Cebu until January 19, 2015, showcasing the designer's renowned creations as well as sketches of the pairs. The "Francis Libiran for Havaianas" collection features three designs, each evocative of the different facets of Filipino culture: the City pair evokes hints of popular culture in the Philippines as expressed through one of the country's most iconic symbols; the Festival pair embodies the vibrance of Philippines' various festivals, celebrations, and color; and the Island pair is inspired by the fusion of various design elements pulled from the country's multicultural background. Each pair is available in specially-designed packaging, making them ideal for gifts.

In Cebu, the limited-edition "Francis Libiran for Havaianas" collection is available at All Flip-Flops Ayala Center Cebu; Northwing, SM City Cebu; and SM City Consolacion. More information on the brand is available at www.havaianas.com.