In the knit of time
Knitwear fashion in Manila is style forward. Taking the lead and trendsetting the retail landscape in design excellence is L Manila. The global Filipino brand is home to a wide range of up-to-date haute knits, designer lines, accessories and shoes expressing fashion that matters. Its creative director, who’s one of the pillars in the industry, Lulu Tan Gan, has elevated and updated the material into something contemporary chic. Soft and luxe knits are hitting the streets of today with alluring imagery apart from their cold-weather clothing origins.
The latest collection was designed to make fabric cling in monochromatic neutral shades with a hint of pastels and finishings of lace. The fusions of texture are intelligent and well thought out. The exceptional pieces are an anthology of fabrication suggesting a sense of lightness, comfort and leisure. From runway to realway, the irresistible knit pickings in body-centric dressing define a relaxed feel with an empowering sexy attitude. Stylish and wearable, these masterful creations are interpretations for the modern woman’s lifestyle. For ladies of leisure or women on the go, knits are smart and practical investment pieces. The modern look of globetrotting appeal is definitely a wardrobe must-have.
Highlighting the retail line are warrior-inspired accessories by young ingénue and in-house designer Solenn Heussaff. Chic armory in patterned studs and chains accentuated by feathers are must-buy extras. The capsule collection consists of eclectic neckpieces, belts and vests noteworthy of discerning attention. These remarkable accessories, matched with knitwear, create a multi-textural style spectacle and are standouts that have front row appeal to boost any ensemble. Gone are the days when knits were identified with cold weather and traditional Filipino “linens.” The age-old fabric is figure-flattering the shape of things to come for all ages. The future of knitwear is moving with the styling of the times, where fashion is boundless.
(E-mail the author at mymultiplechoice@yahoo.com)
Photography by MAU AGUASIN • Creative direction and styling by LUIS ESPIRITU JR. • Associate stylist: BELLE CAMARSI • Makeup by BOBBY CARLOS for REVLON • Modeled by RIA BOLIVAR • Clothes by LULU TAN GAN and L’Amour Collection by SOLENN HEUSSAFF, available at L Manila, Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center, Makati City • All shoes by SOLEA, available at Power Plant Mall, Rockwell Center, Makati City • Shot on location at Playa Calatagan • Special thanks to Landco Pacific Corp., Club Punta Fuego and Ms. Mawi de Ocampo (836-5000 or www.landco.ph)
