Fashion Watch Inside: Ferdie Abuel, Ito Curata, James Reyes, Norman Noriega and Joey Samson

Ferdi Abuel

MANILA, Philippines - This outfit was inspired by... the muumuu done in a matte-sequined jersey. It becomes more evening, but in an effortless silhouette.

2011 was all about… a lot of things happening all at the same time; there was no time to digest what we had to learn from these events.

Worst trend of 2011... nothing in particular. I think we’ve reached that age where trends don’t really matter anymore because information is so quick now. What stands out is one’s ability to edit and personalize.

In 2012, I will be working with… a more artisanal and traditional way of doing clothes.

In the coming year, everyone should invest in… a month-long getaway to unusual destinations like North Korea, Myanmar or Peru. It’s good to be shaken out of your comfort zone once in a while.

Ito Curata

This outfit was inspired by… a night at La Scala with Amy Winehouse.

2011 was all about… fashion extremes in such things as embellishments (too theatrical), silhouettes (too unflattering) and shoes (too chunky).

Worst trend of 2011… I have two: outrageously high platform shoes worn by women 4’11” tall and heavily-embellished gowns that do not allow women to comfortably move and/or sit.

In 2012, I will be working with… more local fabrics such as piña, abaca and abel.

In the coming year, everyone should invest in… a modern, classic terno or barong.

James Reyes

This outfit was inspired by… the metropolis and city living.

2011 was all about… movement, action, transition and contemplation.

Worst trend of 2011… tweeting all day!

In 2012, I will be working with... Tanghalang Pilipino, the National Museum, Slim’s and other Philippine institutions.

In the coming year, everyone should invest in… a terno.

Joey Samson

This outfit was inspired by… a man’s shirt — one of my constant sources of inspiration. This particular piece is a study in proportion.

2011 was all about… color.

Worst trend of 2011… was nada.

In 2012, I will be working with… textures and formulas.

In the coming year, everyone should invest in… modern classics and local designer pieces.

Norman Noriega

This outfit was inspired by… nothing in particular, I just wanted to do what I love doing.

2011 was all about… prints on prints and more prints.

Worst trend of 2011… loud prints/geometric prints. I don’t believe in loud prints, they’re tacky!

In 2012, I will be working with… more artistas! (Laughs)

In the coming year, everyone should invest in… easy and classic pieces.