Tyra Banks' choice for Top Model glam

MANILA, Philippines - Supermodel and host Tyra Banks recognizes true modeling talent when she sees one. Apparently, she is an expert, too, in spotting the most talented up-and-coming fashion designers in the industry. In Cycle 16 of her top-rating reality model search, America’s Next Top Model, Banks brought the spotlight to Filipino designer Michael Cinco who instantly wowed American audiences and trend watchers with his intricately designed creations for the “eco-couture” episode of the popular show.

Manila will soon bear witness to Cinco’s luxurious designs as he stages his very first solo show for this year’s Red Cross Fashion Gala to be held on Oct. 16, 7 p.m., at the Rizal Ballroom of Makati Shangri-La.

The event is Cinco’s first major solo show in the country organized by Tessa Prieto-Valdes and Kaye Tinga to raise funds for the Philippine National Red Cross-R izal Chapter and the Assumption High School Batch 1981 Foundation.  

Dubai-based Cinco has made a name for himself as a top fashion designer in the Middle East region, known for dreamy, elegant pieces that reflect his innate creativity and masterful techniques. Since moving to Dubai in the late ‘90s, Cinco has become a favorite among Arab elite for his beautifully crafted wedding gowns and evening dresses. His brand of luxurious fashion soon conquered international runways and red carpets as well, with top international celebrities like Paris Hilton and Lily Allen showing up in Cinco’s stunning creations. 

It was only a matter of time before Cinco would take over Hollywood. His sketches made their way to Banks, who was obviously spellbound by his incredible talent in breathing life to fashion. 

Cinco was then called in to design for the final six contestants in Cycle 16 of the model search, with the challenge to create glamorous looks from recyclable materials. Using safety pins, broken mirrors, rubber bands, recycled parachutes and forks and spoons as accessories, Cinco designed 10 different pieces for the show’s eco-friendly theme. As expected, his creations were a stand-out during the shoot that was held on a landfill. 

Photographer and one of the show’s judges, Nigel Barker, called the shoot “one of my favorites to date.” Tyra, of course, as well as fellow judge, Vogue contributing editor André Leon Talley were also enthralled by how Cinco creatively interpreted the theme into pieces that loudly spoke through fashion the global call for environment awareness.

For details, call 0917-8325570.