The most anticipated, well-attended, highly successful extravaganza was a triumphant proof of the power of concentration. Hofer focused his energies and, in the process, created one of the best collections Cebu has witnessed in a long, long time.
Hofer cast a magical spell with creations that made one easily forget the grim realities of complicated modern life. One was transported back to a time when women were fitted for their beauty and style.
Weaving together themes of royalty, courtesans and even, dare I say, warriors, Hofer mesmerized his thrilled guests, many of whom were wearing timeless outfits from his atelier.
There were many dramatic moments of innovation and excitement. There seemed a total abandonment of the tailored suit for there was a continuous parade of frills, gothic skirts, bias-cut linens and silks.
Femininity and grace were in full evidence in the creations. The designer masterfully illustrated the art of accentuating womanly curves with embellishments. The result was a fresh approach to haute couture, one anchored firmly on the ever-changing world, while offering trendy ideas intended to appeal to a growing clientele.
Featured were the summer fashion jewelry collection of German designer Miranda Konstantinidou and the exquisite fully-beaded evening bags by Joanna Lhuiller.
The lasting impression is of a collection that is truly seductive with sophisticated and alluring designs highlighting the general trend towards femininity in fashion.
At the end of the show, amid cheers and applause, Oj Hofer, profoundly happy yet timidly shy, sincerely acknowledged the warm felicitations and high praises from friends and supporters.
The gushing guests were then invited for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Hosts for the evening were Zee Cebu publisher Eva Gullas and editor Jing Ramos, together with the Shangri-La Mactan Island Resort management team, headed by marketing director Maggie Garcia and director of communications Neil Rumbaoa.
Proudly lending support were fellow Cebuano designers Philip Rodriguez, Arcy Gayatin, Albert Arriba, Ditas Rodriguez, Joy Bernaldez, Marichu Tan, Myrna Cebrecus and Jojo Matibag.
Among those who blazed the trail were consistently well-dressed matrons such as Rosebud Sala, Mingming Gullas, Zeny Deen, Teresing Mendezona, Annie Aboitiz, Annabelle Luym and Lorna Quisumbing.