MANILA, Philippines - Forever 21 is the great leveler of fashion. Ever since the international retail giant opened up two stores in the country, the first in SM Megamall and the most recent in SM Makati, the blog-conscious youth have been spotted everywhere looking fashionably on-point with the most current trends. Says Philippine Fashion Week executive producer Joey Espino, “Forever 21 caters to a younger market, and the new generation of Filipinos will know how to dress up in style at a price point that everybody can afford.” Even the not-so-younger market have been braving the long lines and ransacking the stores for quickie ensembles.
Short frilly skirts worn with cropped blazers and brightly colored accessories is one of the trademark F21 looks, and there were many variations of these seen at the Forever 21 show at the SMX Convention Center that it was hard to distinguish the audience from the models. The brand’s PFW runway debut showcased several distinct trends from its seemingly limitless racks with peppy girls sporting tousled hair and cute foreign guys with huge smiles that made the front row girls giggle.
Global Influence
Inspirations from exotic African, South America and Native American designs for the gypsetter on a budget
21 Men
Trends are toned down with striped shirts, rolled-up shorts and easygoing looks for men.
Color Blocking
Layers of bright neons are blindingly fresh and vibrant.
Pattern Mixing
A playful mix of florals, stripes and color where no rules are right
Romantic Bohemian
Vintage, antique looks comprised of lace and faded denim are ideal for outdoor music festivals.