Though Metrowear has been a paramount anchor on the fashion scene for the past five years, this is the first year it will be a year-long series as the bustling economy shows sustained activity in many arenas, including fashion and beauty. The year-long event kicks off this March and culminates in December. After the summer series comes the highly anticipated Auggie Cordero Gala, the couturier’s first show in six years. A retailers show is slated in September, a young designers show after that, and finally, the Gala.
Proudly Pinoy, Metrowear will feature 11 compact collections from some of the best young designers Philippine couture has to offer. Editorial director Thelma Sioson San Juan, who conceptualized Metrowear with the Fashion Design Council of the Philippines, led by Randy Ortiz and Tonichi Nocom, says, "It becomes a venue for showcasing brilliant talent. We hope Metrowear will really help turn Philippine fashion design into a viable business and art that will make Filipinos proud of their country."
What makes this year’s event exceptional is the inclusion of swimwear and accessories. Editor in chief of Metro magazine Mel Cuevas affirms, "Accessories have become quintessential fashion statements and it’s about time we invited them to be part of Metrowear."
Amina Aranaz-Alunan is featuring her large bags in exaggerated proportions and luggage inspired by Queen Amidala sunbathing on the moon. Leaning heavily towards silver, she will mix natural and artificial materials for contrast. A sure winner and a heavy hitter abroad, Arnel Papa takes a tip from what local nature has to offer and creates substantial pieces made of carabao horn and hooves, mother-of-pearl, gold, sterling silver, and semi-precious stones.
Newbies this season are Charina Sarte, Salvador Malto, and Mitzi Quilendrino. From swimwear designer Charina Sarte come couture maillots that are perfect for the beach in metallics, neutrals, and white or in bright, bustling hues. The 1950s and Esther Williams pave the way for Sarte’s creations. Market trends sway towards nudes or high-impact colors, which are exemplified by Sarte’s upcoming collection and are evident in many of the other designers’ collections.
Cebu native Salvador Malto presents a romantic safari swimwear theme, combining floral appliques with chic African tribal pieces. Young Designer Guild member Mitzi Quilendrino has a men’s and women’s line that’s heavy on graphic cuts, stretch tulle, and Swarovski crystals.
From one of my all-time favorites, Rhett Eala, come beautiful, short cocktail numbers in all shades of blue inspired by calming waters. These are perfect for women who want gorgeous feminine shapes.
For his part, the visionary Rajo Laurel exudes a futuristic travel theme as he envisions visiting a resort on another planet. Space resort, if you will, features a lounge-like swimsuit collection that should avoid coming into contact with water. His iconic collection was created with real women in mind and modeled at the presscon by his sisters Sam Laurel, Gela Laurel, and Ven Laurel-Hernando.
Dancing to the beat of the same space age concept is Jun Escario who presents a new minimalist, futuristic collection in silver, black, and white. His pieces are laser cut with less volume and heavy on the mirrors and lamé.
For Lulu Tan Gan, French-trained Solenn Heusaff exhibits a line made for career women that can go straight from work to play. Composed mainly of knits, they come in pastels accentuated with black and white. Blocks of black and white are also part of the collection, gently softened by ruffles.
Louis Claparols takes his cue from Egypt, showcasing pieces in gold, chocolate, nude, coral and yellow.
Patrice Ramos-Diaz experiments on polyester prints, chiffon, piña and lace.
We can’t wait to see the final show. There’s no doubt you can still look cool despite the sweltering heat with fashion looks from Metrowear’s hottest designers.
The Samsung Metrowear Summer event is a collaboration with InterContinental Manila, Globe Platinum, Metrobank Femme, Wacoal, L’Oreal Professionel, Shu Uemura, Mizuno, and Lifestyle Network.