Chito de los Santos: Desert Gypsy
Sand dunes, chunky jewels, embellished leather belts, feather ornaments, leather corsets and dark kohl-rimmed eyes — who doesn’t want to be a Desert Gypsy? This season, designer Luis “Chito” de los Santos presents an oasis of opulence using colors such as pewter, matte gold, gray and jewel-like magenta combined with vinyl-coated taffeta and satin fabrics. A former professional performer for Arte Abarro Dance Troupe, Chito has channeled his love for performance art into the visual medium of couture.
“I knew at an early age that I wanted to be a designer,” Chito shares. “I enrolled at SLIM’s School of Fashion where I studied dressmaking and fashion designing. I even did an illustration for Ms. Salvacion “Slim” Higgins myself.”
In 2005, Chito decided to enhance his knowledge by studying pattern-making at Fashion Institute of the Philippines (FIP). “I understand a woman’s need for flair and drama and I think it shows in my work. This industry has been wonderful to me and has given me the opportunity not only to express myself artistically but also to meet a lot of interesting women, each of them beautiful in her own way,” he says.
For this collection, strips of materials are sewn on corsets for accent. Necklines are cut low and one-shoulder bodices are ruched and draped to resemble sand dunes. Square pants, peg skirts, peplum, flowing bias skirts and ball gowns are also distinctively present in the collection. Flared, pleated pants and thigh-high slits add modern drama. Tulle-covered pearls, stones, beads and feathers elegantly embellished on necklines, shoulders and belts contribute sophisticated details to every piece.
(Chito de los Santos’ atelier is located at 238G P. Ocampo St., San Antonio Village, Makati City. For more information, call 0915-201-6157.) Photography by Joanne Zapanta-Andrada • Models: Mariana Henud and Xamira Mohlman • Hair and makeup by Raz Rimor of Metro Salon Alabang. Cel.: 0927-757-9488 • Crystal encrusted glasses by Kinny Andrada
