Penshoppe reveals its chic summer collection at Philippine Fashion Week

MANILA, Philippines - Last season, it was all about the London high streets turned catwalks. This time around, Penshoppe crosses the English Channel into France. The label takes in the City of Paris, with its grandeur and sophistication, and heads by train towards the French Riviera, say the Cote d’Azur, with key stopover destinations along the way — specifically the candor of Lyon, a picnic in Bordeaux, the coastal landscape of Marseille, picturesque Avignon and finally the lavish resorts of Nice. As opposed to the usual flow of runway shows that usually feature dressier clothes for the finale — like the wedding gown closer — “Arrivalist,” the latest collection, begins with darker, more subdued hues to a more casual elegance as the show ushers guests southbound and into colorful bright prints and resortwear along the French Riviera.

“Every season is an opportunity to make a fashion statement,” says Penshoppe brand director Alex Mendoza. “In true Penshoppe tradition of pushing the limits, we decided to give summerwear a sophisticated French twist.” The collection showcased clothes reminiscent of France. For men, sleek tailor-fitted blazers, plaid long-sleeved shirts and rugged jackets round out a casual wardrobe. For women, asymmetrical tops and subtly elegant dresses — the caliber of which are comparable to international brands.

To celebrate the summer months, Penshoppe incorporated more color into its Philippine Fashion Week collection. The darker shades making up the show’s opening transforms into a burst of vivid colors and prints at the finale. “Our goal was to balance style and creativity with this collection,” says Mendoza. “We wanted to make it very chic but at the same time a lot of fun to wear. After all, having fun pretty much sums up summer.”

Penshoppe’s 2011 summer collection proves that the brand is much more than tees and jeans. With its wide range of designs that can be mixed, matched and layered, Penshoppe has upped the ante in summerwear. From last year’s “ReVision” theme to the merry month of May’s“Elevation,” Penshoppe has inevitably arrived.

Hot, haute, hot!

It’s a matter of excessorizing this summer with seriously cool gear to beat the heat. Penshoppe incorporated a seriously continental flair this season, adding a dash of wit to their looks. Check out the must-wear of the collection.