Czars of Haute Couture

CEBU, Philippines - Cary Santiago. Philip Rodriguez. Undisputable fashion powers.

Cebu-based - but ready for the world.

These two names are big fashion brands as well. Any fashion event that bears these names draws both the attendance and high regard of fashion buffs. The popular following of these two masters has rightly developed from the consistent high quality standards that they have displayed.

Each piece from either Rodriguez or Santiago has a story. These designers can explain the particular wisdom of their every work - from the textile used to the choice of color to the design, even to such minute details as type of lace or button, if any, and so on and so forth. Czars don't come to be by mere guesswork.

Their standing in the fashion circles, both in Cebu and in the whole country, is backed by solid experience. Philip Rodriguez has been doing haute couture for the longest time. Cary Santiago has had wowed the international fashion houses he worked for in the Middle East.

While both high-fashion designers are perceived to be expensive, local fashion consumers are fortunate enough to have such world-class services available here. Quality always comes at a price. And the price may yet double if one has to travel far to avail of the service.

Outfits by Rodriguez and Santiago are the favorites of beauty queens. As the saying goes: "Power begets power." But not all of their creative outputs end up on the ramp. The bulk of their creations are found in the treasure chests of those who can afford or have exquisite artistic taste, or both. (FREEMAN)