I am Legionnaire
“We’ve gone a long way since Technomarine, buddy!” I joked to Dennis Lustico as he put a finishing touch on one of the dresses for his gala show on Oct. 1. I was referring to the first time we met at a small Technomarine fashion launch wherein Dennis was showing his clothes for the first time. I was mesmerized. I’m not a big fan of love at first sight, but this was definitely the only time it held water. The deep V-neck tops with the raw ribbons festooning the otherwise austere mini dress made me completely fall in love with fashion. Back then I was just a vanilla scrambler. Dennis showed me the way to love and eventually breathe fashion.
We two neophytes found each other and soon I would be ensconced in a box-like kimono top with jeans while I struggled with my libations. Then there would be times I would go crazy in his mini dresses while we danced the salsa in my apartment.
Dennis throughout the years has kept the same quiet and humble demeanor that has made him the favorite of some key fashion players. Without hubris, his designs are confident and singular.
It’s only fitting he celebrates his advent into fashion superstardom after years of hard work. He’s no flash in the pan, but a guaranteed supernova.
It is for the benefit of the Philippine National Red Cross Rizal Chapter, the Assumption High School Class 1981 Foundation, and the Tanging Yaman Foundation.
Dennis’ new collection, “The Legionnaire,” showcases an interesting fusion of contrasting elements that perfectly displays his impeccable style and affinity for dramatic depiction.
“The Legionnaire is the ultimate representation of my evolution as a designer. This collection shows off fluidity, style and drama artistically incorporated with textured or structured elements. With this collection, I want to send the message across that women can still look feminine and sexy even in men’s-inspired clothing,” he explains.
He received the Prix d’Incitation at the Concours International des Jeunes Createurs de Mode in Paris in 1999 and 2000, as well as top local fashion awards such as the Katha Award for Jewelry in 2003 and Mega magazine’s Top Bridal Wear Designer of 2007.
With a vision to take Filipino fashion to the next level, Dennis also served as president of the Young Designers Guild and was a member of the Fashion and Design Council of the Philippines.
Dennis, I can only say this to a few in the industry: I love you and congratulations. Every bead sewn in your dresses is a reflection of the brilliance of your career.
