Philippine Fashion Week - Holiday 2014

Like other major fashion capitals of the world, Philippine Fashion Week’s 5-day event hits the runway twice a year for Spring/Summer Collection in October and Holiday Collection in May.

Born 17 years ago at Glorietta Activity Area in Ayala Center, Philippine Fashion Week (PhFW) was mostly participated by commercial retail brands in its younger years. As it gained popularity with local emerging designers, Joey A. Espino Jr. and Audie J.A. Espino, brothers and both PhFW Executive Producers and Directors, decided to migrate their fashion ramp to its current home at the SMX Convention Center & SM Mall of Asia (MOA).

And for the PhFWHoliday 2014 line up:

The much-anticipated launch of Shoe Mart (SM) Department store’s latest brand, SM Woman, on May 29 at PhFW Holiday 2014 did not disappoint. This premier collection is very much on point, as they showcased 6 different trends:  

Neoprene – fresh and chic effortless luxe that can go from desk to dusk very easily.

New Age Digital – randomly positioned colorful geometrics for a hint of edginess. 

Windowpane Checks – a classic effect of simple black and white graphics. 

Floral – bold blooming print is never out of season in a tropical country.

Industrial Graphics – strong marble patterns feminized in lightweight fabric.

And the Resort – eye-catching bold patterns perfect for cruising or beach lounging. 

Overall, SM Woman exudes sophistication, confirming that it is a one-stop shop for any occasion, not to mention affordability with prices ranging from PhP799 to just over a thousand. My only disappointment is SM’s choice of foreign models for their poster promotion, glad to see that they opted for local models to walk the ramp.

Celebrating its 125^th Anniversary Archive Tour at the MOA main atrium, Lee Denims presented its limited capsule collection on May 30 at the PhFW Holiday 2014 fashion show with high beat dance performance in between sets.  Hosted by Bianca Gonzalez, the show started with the Lee 101+ anniversary collection that offered looks for every lifestyle and denim enthusiast.  The models donned different shades, forms and designs including noticeable details like double layer and flap pockets, embroidered signature labels, and unique S-branding on the rear.  

Meanwhile, the Lee Stretch Deluxe targeted to embrace and flatter a woman’s curve with super versatile jeans engineered for stretch, comfort and recovery yet, precise in fit. No doubt that denim will continue to be a staple in our closets for who knows how many more decades.

Fifty of the country’s top couturiers were crammed into one day of back to back fashion shows to unveil their collections on May 31 at the PhFW Holiday 2014. For many valley locals, 2 of them would be familiar from these designers’ previous Estilo Filipino affair held at Mekong Plaza, Mesa AZ:

Richard Papa who set the tone with leather and sheer panels in striking crimson hues... 

And Edgar San Diego who brought in true holiday spirit with amplified sleeves and dramatic floral headdresses.... 

Here are my personal faves:

I have been following Happy Andrada's young signature style.  Her "Incantation" A/W'15 collection is no different as she tapped into the aboriginal cultures and gave it a modern twist.  I love the way she played with the texture, solid and stripe earth tones of the "t'nalak" fabric without sacrificing the tailoring of these original Benguet cloth. The skeletal headdress gave this native RTW exhibit some drama on the ramp.

Inspired by Pacudos of the Mangyan tribe, Ditta Sandico debuted her "Camisa" A/W'15 collection, redefining the traditional Barong for the contemporary Filipina.  The black and white checkered-like pattern and pop of colors modernized each look and gave a fresh appeal to the audience. 

Jaki Penalosa, also showcased Philippine grown and locally made materials like silk, pina and abaca fibers.  Her choice of colors, sheer fabric and feminine cut brought youthful sophistication to the versatile hand-woven, used-to-be-oldies' textiles. 

Chasing Sheila claims NO ownership to Philippine Fashion Week photos. Images on this post are copyright to its owners.  Photo credits Philippine Fashion Week. 

For two years in a row, Arizona’s Phoenix Fashion Week, (PHXFW…not be confused with PhFW) has brought in Philippine Haute Couture by Furne One and Rocky Gathercole for its event finales. Let’s hope to see more of our creative “kababayan” designers grace the fashion stage in Phoenix.

On a related topic – Are you an aspiring model? Come and get discovered if you are female, 5’8” or taller with a slender build or male 5’10” or taller with slender to athletic build. PHXFW is seeking 34 men and women to compete for the title of “Model of the Year 2014,” to be featured in PHXFW this fall.  The Male and Female “Model of the Year” winners will each receive a modeling contract from The Agency Arizona. Come to Studio 3D at 1625 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix AZ 85034 at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 21^st. Don’t miss this opportunity…see you there!

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Happy Philippine Independence Day!!!

XOXO,
Sheila