Tatler chic

The annual Tatler Ball has always been a much-anticipated event in our Manila social circle and preparations are made way in advance by the indefatigable managing director, Irene Martel Francisco, and her terrific team: Mia Borromeo, Anton San Diego, Maurice Arcache and Chit Lijauco. This weekend, they pulled out all the stops and the evening was like stepping into a wonderland of elegance and beauty.

Upon our arrival at the Makati Shangri-La’s reception area, a gloved lady server graciously offered a very chilled crystal flute of Moet & Chandon, which is exactly the way to start a great evening! 

Awardees of the evening were top-notch personalities that included our favorite host, Johnny Litton; well-liked couple Lani and Conchitina Bernardo as well as Kim and Felicia Atienza; creative Betsy Brias Westendorp, Nina Huang, Mely C. Hechanova, Bea Zobel Jr. and Sandy Prieto Romualdez.

The best part of the ball is that one not only enjoys the festivities but also helps a charity that will benefit our country through the Child Protection Network, which aids abused children as well as provides family counseling and legal assistance. An auction started the ball rolling with willing buyers outbidding each other in the spirit of giving.

I have always followed the mandate that one should dress appropriately for social occasions and I could not help but look at the lovely ladies (and gentlemen) who were all so well-attired and groomed. Half of the ladies were wearing local designers led by Inno Sotto, Ito Curata, Jun Escario, Rhett Eala and other top-rating Philippine talents. The other half wore foreign labels that ranged from Valentino, Lanvin and Nina Ricci to Gucci, Halston and De la Renta.

A number of those that I admired were wearing vintage gowns that have withstood the test of time and have shown us that a good dress is a good dress is a good dress.