Last week I introduced the rising young Turks destined to leave their marks and change the face of Philippine fashion. I presented those I believe to be the most promising hairstylists and makeup artists, fashion stylists and fashion muse.
This week, I bring to you the remaining faces of this creative, bold and innovative batch of fashion visionaries.
These tantalizingly attractive members of the Professional Models Association of the Philippines (in photo are Rissa Samson, Isabel Roces, Valerie de los Santos, Gary Dulatas, Nicolette Bell, Ryan Villareal, Paolo Paraiso and Bryan Tan) have graced the pages of innumerable glossies, TV commercials and runway shows. These heartthrobs are the current envy of all. The pack credits itself as being the country’s sole and longest existing modeling association. The group continues to grow by setting up and implementing better standards and protecting models’ rights.
Joel Tantoco, Kat Tantoco and Hindy Tantoco are heirs to the throne of Rustan’s. They are the young artistic minds that hold the future of a fashion retailing empire. Expanding their retail business through U, they have established an
uber-chic brand popular among the stylish breed. U embodies what is cosmopolitan and hip about the urban lifestyle. The trio introduce and incorporate fashionable styles and trendy designs in U’s accessories, bags, shoes and apparel line. Their courageous approach in retailing has thus far proved successful.
Despite Folded and Hung’s (F&H) relative infancy, its presence has not gone unnoticed. With successful campaigns (spearheaded by owner Ronald Pineda and director of operations Alan Vianzon) that have featured celebrities and top models, F&H braved the world of retailing amidst the economic slump and the existence of retail giants. Its visibility through advertising has made an impact on the scene, positioning the brand a notch above its contemporaries. In its continuous effort to promote style, F&H’s potential holds ground in the highly competitive world of fashion retailing.
Photographer Tommy Zablan’s unconventional approach has caught the attention of people in the fashion industry who are on the lookout for untapped talent. From top glossies to the broadsheets to advertising campaigns, Tommy offers an alternative and fresh perspective. Exposed to and abreast with the technological aspects of digital photography, his play on light reveals his visual creativity.
Carmina Sanchez and GP Reyes have conceptualized and organized one of a kind events with guest lists that invariably include society’s high-profile set
, fashionistas, top models and celebrities who are requisites in Manila’s fast fashion lane. Already noted for their background in the world of retailing and jewelry, the duo’s extensive networking is a marvel. These masterminds create the venues for staging newsworthy fashion events.
Avel Bacudio, Joey Samson, Mel Vergel de Dios, Liz Punzalan, Yvonne Quisumbing, James Reyes, Dennis Lustico, Ivan Aseron and Ricky Vicencio of the Young Designers’ Guild (YDG) reveal their design sensibility by injecting a large dose of fashion irreverence and at the same time, awareness of classic and conservative designs. With members who have triumphed in international design competitions, the YDG designers have elevated their group into a strong force in the fashion circle, earning a well-deserved reputation. The guild consistently emphasizes innovation, design excellence and relevance of clothes, impressive technical detail and dedication to change.
(E-mail me at mymultiplechoice@yahoo.com)