Beauty and drama

Contrary to popular belief, the kimono originated not from Japan but from China. The original name for kimono is gofuku, which literally means “clothes of Wu.” It was in 8 A.D. that the Chinese style of dressing became influential to the Japanese. Equally associated with Japanese culture is the Kabuki Theater. This form of art is built on the notion of beauty and drama whose theme, more often than not, centers on the concept of dramatic revelation and human transformation.

Fashion designer Edgar San Diego, who has an extensive experience as a costume designer from several Philippine theatrical productions, has taken these two elements of Japanese art as general inspiration for his new collection. He says, “My collection, which highlights the form and theatrics of ancient Japan, puts special emphasis on the Obi sash. The sash is a traditional part of the Japanese costume but instead of using it only as a belt, I used it as details of the neckline, sleeves, body, etc. I used patterns with both the plain and printed sides of the sash, following the basic principle of another Japanese art form — the origami. My look is modern Japanese. I made use of the colors black, red and black.”

Photography by JOANNE ZAPANTA-ANDRADA • Art direction by REM DIVINO • Model: Jana Stuntz of Cal Carries • Hair and makeup by RAZ RIMOR of Metro Salon (0927-757-9488) • Shot on location at ACACIA HOTEL, Alabang, Muntinlupa City • Clothes by EDGAR SAN DIEGO (89 General Segundo St., Heroes Hill, Quezon City; 0918-907-9609)