Grace

For the past couple of years, the sharp aesthetic of Jun Escario has played a major part in Philippine fashion. Now preparing for a major exhibition as the country’s sole representative at the Hang Zhou International Silk Fashion Festival (organized by the Hagihara Academy of Fashion in China this October), Escario now has a higher purpose in mind.

Marking his 15th year in the designing seat, this homegrown Cebuano is looking forward to tomorrow in a big way. It is his devotion to playfulness and a kind of exuberance that easily gets him recognized, securing popularity and publicity in broadsheets and glossy magazines. His clothes appeal to stylish 50-year-olds as much as to trend-hungry teenagers.

Greatly influenced by his moods, Escario usually finds himself thriving in controlled chaos. "Ideas fly, but there is always a focus, a center for everything," he shares. The end result of his imagination? Statement pieces that are loud but also work quietly as separates.

Now with a growing obsession for all things retro, Jun is recycling old ideas and giving them a new twist. His upcoming collection for fall pays homage to our centuries-old relations with China. Expect floor-length dresses in contrasting textures of abaca, Chinese silk, silk cocoon, silk chiffon and tulle. He chooses somber, monochromatic palettes of blue and black and uses components of black lip shell, coco shells, mother of pearl and assorted crystals that float freely on each garment. This creates a new mood that is dignified and grown up.

Escario’s only take on fashion is this: "Fashion should always be intimate. It is an extension and expression of the self." He wishes that his clothes not be stereotyped as elitist. He may be a huge fan of couture but believes that "a great number of his clients are those who have a strong sense of self, expressed in many ways not necessarily in fashion."

Having to shuttle back and forth each week between Manila and Cebu, spending less time with family and friends, along with an increase in his work load, is indication of his propelled success. And what does he think of all this? "Honestly I haven’t thought about it," echoes Jun at the compliment. He emphasizes, "The kind of success that is important to me is the continued patronage of my clients because that can only mean they are pleased with my work."

Jun Escario can be contacted at 0920-9105541.

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Schu shoes are available at Glorietta, Shangri- La mall and SM MegaMall.