MANILA, Philippines - The School of Fashion and the Arts (SoFA) debuted its first batch of graduates comprised of nine students — namely Cassie Revereza, Melanie Lim, Kaye Morales, Fold Canela, Charinson Balalilhe, Mark Tamayo, Noelle Llave, Mikka Hernandez and Kim Palma — and their collections at Philippine Fashion Week.
After a fashion show that unveiled each student’s pieces, three graduates were presented with special awards during the program for their outstanding collections. Awardees were selected by guest judges and industry bigwigs Ben Farrales (dean of Philippine Fashion), Pauline Juan (editor in chief, Preview magazine), Vic Barba (fashion designer), Sari Yap (editor in chief, Mega magazine) and Anthony Nocom (fashion designer).
Cassie Revereza’s “Pearlesque” collection, inspired by, well, pearls and boasting different ensembles ranging from basic lingerie to loungewear, was awarded Best in Fabrication. “Humanation,” Noelle Llave’s collection, referencing the human anatomy — manifested through cutouts and 3D architectural patterns — won Best Merchandise. And finally, Kaye Morales’ “Queen of Octopode” — showcasing pieces that portrayed the flexible movements of the octopus, highlighting its defense mechanisms — was deemed by the judges Best Graduation Collection.
Also seen on the runway were Melanie Lim’s “Modern Vintage,” Fold Canela’s “Rob the Armory,” Charinson Balalilhe’s “Reflection,” Mark Tamayo’s “Identikit,” and Mikka Hernandez’s and Kim Palma’s collections, both titled “Exotic.”