Efren Ocampo defines modern romantic

MANILA, Philippines - Inspired by the spectacular dance sequences in the American musical West Side Story, designer Efren Ocampo’s latest collection for SM is a passionate love affair with the modern feminine.

Ocampo calls his collection the “Sophisticated Romantic.” He says, “The look is soft, romantic but not too sweet and cloying.”

What makes it romantic? The sheer softness of crepe, tulle, rayon, jersey, and grosgrain interplaying with classic black and white and ravishing red. Ocampo uses intricate lace appliqués, tulle, and sequins to add drama and romance to the collection.

Sophistication comes from tiny flickers of old Hollywood glamour in the details and the cut, which add a touch of nostalgia. Also taking a major part in the collection are the pretty bustier dresses that show off a swanlike neck and those graceful shoulders.

With silhouettes that accentuate the woman’s body and flirt, unabashedly, with her many moods and activities, some of the dresses — Ocampo adds — “can take a woman from day to night. She can also have a quiet romantic dinner or she can even dance the night away with the dresses with flirty skirts.”

Beautifully photographed at The Samsung Hall of SM Aura, Efren Ocampo’s Sophisticated Romantic is available at The SM Store in Makati, SM North EDSA, SM Megamall, and SM Mall of Asia. Styles may vary per store.