...the Fashion show at the House of Lords

A Filipino first: A fashion show at the House of Lords

Miss Charlize
Business Mirror 
23 September 2019

LONDON—For the first time in fashion history, a Filipino designer was able to showcase the finest of the Philippines at the Palace of Westminster.

Parkfleet Consultancy & Services and Topline International, the producers of the exclusive event, called “Creative Economy Through Fashion,” enlisted Cebu-based designer Philipp Piezas Tampus to display the ingenious uses of indigenous materials, such as hablon and piña cocoon. 

Philipp Piezas Tampus and Marie Fairbank; Bianca Lopez Salimbangon;  Kacey Coleen, and Kimmie Famero

The grand neo-Gothic architecture and ornate Augustus Pugin-designed interiors of the House of Lords served as the backdrop for the sampaguita-inspired pieces that Tampus presented.

The sampaguita flowers, painstakingly attached and embroidered to long gowns and tea-length dresses, are made of piña cocoon while the hablon was made by weavers in Argao, Cebu. Tampus also showed sharp menswear suits and charming children’s wear.

It was Mike Acebedo Lopez, commisioner of the Cebu Ports Authority and managing director of Topline, that suggested Tampus to be the featured designer at the economic forum-cum-fashion show.

“When I saw my sister Bianca’s wedding dress designed by Philipp, I sent a photo to Savita Kaye [CEO and founder of the House of iKons, a show during London Fashion Week] and Marie Fairbank [Parkfleet founder] who immediately wanted to see more,” Lopez shared. “When Savita saw his portfolio, which includes Cebu Gov. Gwen Garcia’s inauguration dress, it was decided that Philipp would be one of the featured designers at the House of iKons show and the lone designer at the House of Lords.”

It was Fairbank who conceptualized “Creative Economy Through Fashion,” which aims to empower the farming sector that is the main source of materials for the fashion industry.

“When I realized that our designers who come to the UK spend thousands or millions and go home without ROI because they have no access to business people for collaborations and business sustainability, I wanted to help in my own way,” said Fairbank, a doyenne in the Fil-Brit community in London.

“I believed that to do a forum at the House of Lords, I’d be the first-ever Filipina to organize an event in such a prestigious place. The venue was chosen so we could attract high-profile business people, potential investors and government officials that we could link them to the designers,” she added.

Among the attendees were lords and ladies, a diamond dealer, Dr. Vanessa Brady, OBE; Prof. Mark Watson-Gandy, barrister/CEO; Deputy Chief of Missions Ambassador Frank Cimafranca and wife Lu Calunsag; Deputy Mayor of Elstree and Borehamwood Cynthia Alcantara-Barker; hotelier Julie Aquino, businesswoman Eme Echavez, CareHands Ltd. Director Elsa Binas and Consul Stacy Alcantara Garcia.

“I wanted to promote the Philippines but starting first with Cebu, because that’s where I’m from. In my next event, I will include anyone that will support my cause,” Fairbank said. “I will also invite fashion designers from Africa, the Mediterranean and the Caribbean.”

...the Filip+Inna fashion

Distinctly Filipino brand makes a mark in NY fashion

 

By Don Tagala,

ABS-CBN North America News Bureau

04/26/2014

 

 

NEW YORK - The name itself screams creativity that is distinctly Filipino.

Filip+Inna, a play on the word Filipina, has made a mark at the annual 3-day shopping extravaganza called Indagare Souk in New York's Upper East Side.

"Souk" means Arab market - Indagare Souk is a market place of global finds, including intricately embroidered clothes and accessories by Filip+Inna.

Founder and creative designer Lenora Cabili said a line dress with mother of pearl bead work and traditional embroidery from the Philippines is one of her best sellers.

"These are basically shell beads, these are like hand stitched. They love the fact na it's an easy wear," Cabili said.

New Yorker Carol Mercer is one of Filip+Inna's loyal customers.

"I like it because it's pretty, also because it's handmade and it's very different. Yyou don't see it anywhere else. The colors are beautiful, and I just love the stitching, embroidery, it's just lovely and the prices are reasonable," said Mercer.

Filip+Inna is inspired by tradition yet designed for the contemporary woman-- a weave that creates timeless and unique piece of clothing and accessories.

From the northern to the southern Philippines, Cabili incorporates old custom weaving, embroidery and beadwork that is handmade by artisans from different indigenous Filipino tribes such as the T'boli.

"It's really getting inspiration from the Philippine culture and make it more relevant in our every day lives," Cabili said.

Cabili's love for promoting the Philippines began when she was exposed to the different indigenous tribes growing up in Iligan City in Mindanao. This was further enhanced by her experience as a Bayanihan Philippine Cultural dancer.

"It has to be part of our identity, so Filipinos should really be proud of the culture, our culture and I provided like a way to make it more wearable or more contemporary," she said.

New York real estate agent, blogger and Fashionista Samantha Lopez said wearing a Filip+Inna creation fits right into the Big Apple's fashion sense.

"Proven talaga, kasi I was lucky enough to be one of the first Filipina na nagsuot ng gawa ni Len dito sa New York," Lopez said, "Everywhere I go talagang napupuna."

 

...the Pinoy fashion in Canada

Pinoy fashion to grace the runways of Canada

March 28, 2014

GMA News

 

Filipino pride is poised to once again sweep across the nation and the world, with Canada Philippine Fashion Week (CPFW) set to showcase Filipino culture, creativity, and artistry through chic, fresh, and fabulous fashion designs in the runways of Toronto, Canada from June 9 to 14, 2014.

Filipino icons, visionaries, and rising stars in the field of fashion are joining forces to not only promote and nurture Filipinos’ fashion talent in the Philippines and Canada but also aid children with disabilities in both countries through the Kol Hope Foundation for Children.

CPFW is founded by Filipino-Canadian Executive Director Jeff Rustia. While relatively young, CPFW has already earned nods from prestigious organizations in and out of the Philippines, leading it to garner distinctions such as the FEO 2014 Award for Best New Festival of the Year. CPFW has made a name for itself both as a fashion and travel event that is a must-see in Toronto, Canada.

As a teaser for things to come, CPFW held a press conference in the Shangri-La Hotel in the Philippines. Fil-Am models wowed the crowd with clothes boasting of intricate designs that can only come from Filipinos’ ingenuity and border-less imaginations. These one-of-a-kind creations were a hit among the country’s fashion-savvy residents and attracted high-profile personalities including the Philippine Consul General.

The Canada Philippine Fashion Week is endorsed by the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs and Department of Tourism. It is also receiving support from the Ontario government through the Ministry of Tourism, Sport, and Culture. — GMA International

 

 

...the PH fashion czar

Fashion win for the Philippines

           

by Bervin Cheong

The Star Online (Malaysia)

04 December 2013

 

Avel Bacudio, named 'Asia's Most Influential Designer of 2014', with a model wearing his designs.

AVEL Bacudio from the Philippines has been awarded the title 'Asia’s Most Influential Designer of 2014' at the close of the Mercedes-Benz STYLO Asia Fashion Week yesterday.
 
As the winner, the Filipino designer walked away with an all-expenses paid trip back to KL for a solo showing at the next Asia Fashion Week in 2014.

Public online voting accounted for 50 percent of the decision. Input by the official Asian delegation – comprising heads of fashion weeks and associations, international fashion media and trade buyers, was also taken into consideration.

The event, created by Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s fashion partner STYLO International, is the first business to business (B2B) fashion week in South-East Asia.

Its debut this year saw an assembly of top designers from 11 Asian countries showcasing in both Langkawi and Kuala Lumpur over the span of four days.

Datuk Nancy Yeoh, chairman of the Mercedes-Benz STYLO Asia Fashion Week said: "The 25 designers vying for the title could not be more talented, varied and colourful than they already are. All of them truly represent what fashion from Asia is really about."

Mercedes-Benz STYLO Asia Fashion Week is supported by MyCreative Ventures and IM4U, which are new initiatives under the Malaysian Government and Langkawi’s tourism development authority, LADA Eco-Tourism.

With 29 fashion weeks already spread across all continents bearing the Mercedes-Benz name, this is the 30th fashion week for the German luxury automaker.

Datuk Professor Jimmy Choo acted as honorary advisor for the Mercedes-Benz STYLO Asia Fashion Week.

Event partners included Starwood Hotels and The Andaman, with A Cut Above as Official Hair and Diva Productions as Official Make Up. Kinohimitsu, Kronenbourg 1664 and Tropical Charters were event sponsors.

 

...the Filipiniana

Filipiniana fashion shines in New York show

 

By Rio Rose Ribaya |

Yahoo! SHE

12 June 2012

Yahoo! SHE - About 20 Filipiniana dresses were featured in the "Filipiniana Romance" exhibit, which was launched by the Philippine Consulate General and the Philippine Center in New York City. (Photo from …more gov.ph)  

A special exhibit featuring Philippine fashion has brought established and promising designers with Filipino roots in New York last week.

About 20 Filipiniana dresses were featured in the "Filipiniana Romance" exhibit, which was launched by the Philippine Consulate General and the Philippine Center in the Big Apple.

“What makes the exhibit doubly special is that the featured pieces are from private collections of members of the Filipino-American community in the U.S. Northeast,” the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said in a statement.

“(It) speaks volumes about the great pride these women have in their cultural heritage,” it added.

Pitoy Moreno, Rene Salud, and Patis Tesoro were among the designers, who contributed their works for the city’s month-long celebration of Philippine independence from Spain.

Philippine national artists for fashion Leonard Co, Ben Farrales, Edgard Madamba, Cora Manimbo, and Elvira Reyes also created dresses for the exhibit.

Live models also worked the runway showcasing up-and-coming young Filipino designer Anna Purugganan’s modern take on the terno during the exhibit’s opening on June 5.

The pieces on display all have the common features of the basic Baro’t Saya, the Maria Clara design, and their more modern cousin, the Terno.

Only designer Alfonso Guino-o featured a one-of-a-kind ethnic costume the collection of April Talangbayan.

...the most stylist cabin crews

Philippine Airlines ranked among Asia-Pacific’s most stylish cabin crew

Chinese airline top flying fashion poll

Published in Philippine Daily Inquirer

Saturday, February 9th, 2013

Philippine Airlines cabin crews

MANILA, Philippines – As New York, London, Milan and Paris prepare to kick off 2013 Fashion Week this February, travellers across Asia-Pacific have spoken out in their own style survey, with Philippine Airlines coming in the top 10 ranking.

Leading global travel search site Skyscanner asked over 1200 jet-setters from across Asia-Pacific (Australia, New Zealand, China, India, Indonesia, Philippines, Korea and Singapore) to vote for the cabin crew they thought was most stylish, and topping the list of 20 airlines in the study was Shanghai-based China Eastern who scored 4.15 out of 5 in the poll, wooing flyers with its smart navy blue uniforms teamed with white shirts and red scarves.

Closely following China Eastern was Korea’s Asiana Airlines who came second with 4.14. Virgin Australia, who ordered its staff to undertake lessons in etiquette, posture and language last summer, also have one of the most stylish cabin crew according to travellers scoring 4.03 out of 5 and taking third place in the poll. Air China and China Southern Airlines also completed the Chinese-dominated top five, scoring 4.00 and 3.98 respectively.

Janet Ranola, Skyscanner Philippines Manager and resident fashionista said: “Judging by the results of our survey, travellers clearly have a keen eye on fashion even at 35,000 feet and it’s great to see an airline from the Philippines scoring so highly. International Fashion Week clearly has some competition this month!”

Top 10 Most Stylish Cabin Crew in Asia Pacific

Ranking	Top 10	Base	Score out of 5
1	China Eastern Airlines	China	4.15
2	Asiana Airlines	Korea	4.14
3	Virgin Australia	Australia	4.03
4	Air China	China	4.00
5	China Southern Airlines	China	3.98
6	Air Asia	Malaysia	3.83
7	Singapore Airlines	Singapore	3.78
8	Korean Air	Korea	3.78
9	Philippine Airlines	Philippines	3.76
10	Jeju Air	Korea	3.63

...the world's biggest fashion show

Philippines holds world's biggest fashion show

 

ABS-CBNnews.com

11/30/2012

 

MANILA, Philippines -- A fashion show held Thursday night in Makati City became the Philippines' 8th Guinness world record this year.

Coinciding with the launch of "a new Glorietta," the popular Makati mall set out to beat the current world record for "Most People Modeling on a Catwalk" through a fashion show dubbed "Move to the Vibe of Glorietta."

"The current record is 1,967 people modeling on the catwalk, and that is now held in Turkey, and that was just broken in May this year," Kirsty Bennett, adjudicator of the Guinness Book of World Records, told ABS-CBN News moments before the Glorietta fashion show broke the world record.

More than 2,000 professional and amateur models gathered at the event held at the new Glorietta Palm Drive. They showcased brands such as Bench, Penshoppe, Stores Specialists Inc., Mango, Folded & Hung and Lacoste.

Models waiting for their turn (rappler.com)

 

Models lined up backstage (rappler.com)

While waiting for Bennett's announcement (rappler.com)

 A screen on stage showed the count of the individual models who walked the five ramps. By the end of the show, the participating models numbered 2,255, beating a record earlier set by Turkey.

OFFICIALLY AMAZING. The Philippines now holds the Guinness World Record for the most number of people walking on a catwalk. All photos by Edric Chen (rappler.com)

The event turned festive -- confetti showered those in attendance -- as Bennett officially conferred the record.

Victoty toast (rappler.com)

9 world records in 2012

Nine Guinness world records have been set in the Philippines in 2012 alone.

In March, Camarines Sur scored the world record for most number of mangroves planted in one hour. The world record for the most number of consecutive haircuts by a team was set in Valenzuela City in May.

The saltwater crocodile named Lolong, meanwhile, was named by Guinness as the largest of its kind in captivity in the world in July. In the same month, the religious organization Iglesia ni Cristo scored three Guinness records for the country -- the largest dental health check, the most number of blood pressure readings taken in eight hours, and the biggest number of blood glucose level tests conducted in eight hours.

Early this month, Filipino Herbert Chavez made his way to the 2013 edition of the Guinness Book of World Records for having the largest collection of Superman memorabilia.

On Thursday, another world record -- the Philippines' ninth this year -- was announced to have been set by Gina Gil Lacuna of Tagaytay City.

Her collection of 1,028 different puzzles was recognized by Guinness as being the world's largest.

...the Piña

Filipino piña couture hits NY

 

By Don Tagala,

ABS-CBN North America News Bureau

10/02/2012

 

 

“Philippine piña and other indigenous textiles can compete in the world of high fashion.” - Anthony Cruz Legarda

 

 

NEW YORK - It was simply called “Piña Couture New York.” The Philippines’ signature hand-woven pineapple fabric was the main feature at a fashion show held at the New York Philippine Consulate last Friday.

 

Photo from: www.broadwayworld.com

 

 

Designer Anthony Legarda, an alumnus of the New York Fashion Institute of Technology had an idea about merging cultures in high fashion.

“In order to have the mainstream understand what piña is about and other indigenous Philippines textiles, we have to redesign it so it would be more present, more now. That’s the reason why I’m doing this to find a bigger client definitely for our weavers in the Philippines,” Legarda said.

As a textile technologist, Legarda has ventured into using other Philippine fibers such as the ubiquitous water hyacinth or water lily and a Pinoy-favorite vegetable, saluyot, not the leaf, but the fibers from its stem.

“This is pure pineapple. But we have new fibers now, the saluyot, it’s a jute fabric, you can embroider these new fibers from the Philippines, I try to use all Philippines fibers as well, we’re now developing water hyacinth and saluyot,” he said.

Filipino-American model Barbara Frez said, “Absolutely I would wear one, I would wear each and every one of these outfits, they’re very comfortable, not itchy, nothing. I would definitely wear it.”

Legarda says his goal is to spread the message that Philippine Piña and other indigenous textiles can compete in the world of high fashion couture.

“The presentation is an eye-opener to most attendees and I’m very proud as a Filipino that we have entered that global stage where everyone is practically opening the doors for the Filipino fabric, to be internationally accepted,” Pinoy fashionista Ron Regenit said.

These Filipino fabrics are hand-woven, embellished, and dyed with natural pigments by indigenous master weavers from the Philippines.

Legarda’s runway works of art not only push for the Philippine organic fibers to become the next “world-renowned fabric but it also shows that high fashion clothing can be earth-friendly at the same time.

...the Pinoy fashion designers

Pinoy Fashion Designers Conquer Emmys Red Carpet

By MAUREEN MARIE BELMONTE

September 25, 2012

Manila Bulletin

 

 

Maria Menounos (L) in Oliver Tolentino and Ginnifer Goodwin in Monique Lhuillier (Photo from Zimbio.com)

 

 

MANILA, Philippines – The creations of Filipino designers Monique Lhuillier and Oliver Tolentino continue to dazzle many people including Hollywood personalities. The two US-based designers were recently tapped by the stars to create their stunning outfits for the recently concluded 64th Primetime Emmy Awards night held at the Kodak Theater in Los Angeles on Sept. 23 (US Time). The Cebu-born couturier Lhuillier created a vibrant yellow tube-top ball dress for Emmy's Best Supporting Actress Julie Bowen of the comedy series “Modern Family" while Lhuillier made a flattering orange strapless gown for “Top Chef” host Padma Lakshmi who was also present at the award's night.

For “Once Upon A Time” actress Ginnifer Goodwin, Lhuillier made a lace orange number that matched her fair skin. Tolentino, on the other hand, dressed up “Big Bang Theory” star Melissa Rauch with an emerald green couture Venus cut chiffon gown. For Hollywood TV show “Extra’s” host Maria Menounos, Tolentino added an exceptional Pinoy touch by designing an eco-blue gown made of Piña fiber.

“It’s very nice and it’s very organic,’” Tolentino quoted Menounos as saying in a “Balitanghali” report aired on Tuesday. He added that the American TV host was very pleased that “Isang fitting lang talaga eh nakuha ko na yung sukat niya.”

The piña gowns available in his Los Angeles shop were all made in the Philippines.

"Hindi lang naman exposure para sa akin. Ang hinahabol ko talaga dito is I want the whole world to know that us Filipinos can create beautiful clothes using our local fabric, which is the piña,” Tolentino said in a previous “Umagang Kay Ganda” report.

Hollywood stylists have been visiting his shop in Los Angeles to check his designs with "The Voice" coach Cee Lo green as one of his regular customers.

...the rock fashion

Pinoy handpicked by Rihanna for fashion contest

by Patrick Camara Ropeta,

ABS-CBN Europe News Bureau

08/28/2012

 

 

LONDON - A UK-based Filipino designer is competing for the chance of a lifetime to dress international popstars for a fashion reality show, after being selected by Rihanna from thousands of hopefuls.

 

Ralph (center) with other contestants at the Styled to Rock studio/Photo courtesy of Styled to Rock

Simply known as Ralph, the 25-year-old designer is showcasing his creative flair in Styled to Rock from Sky Living in the UK, a television search for the next big thing in fashion.

“It means everything to me. To get the chance to showcase my work and for the whole world to see it is the best possible opportunity that has ever been handed to me. The show has really helped define the direction of where I want to go with my career and its huge boost to get to work with big international music artists,” he told ABS-CBN News.

Ralph, a graduate of fashion design from University of Westminster, is battling it out against 11 other upcoming designers with different styles and backgrounds.

The mentors: Stylist Lysa Cooper, designer Henry Holland, popstar Nicola Roberts/Photo courtesy of Styled To Rock

“Being part of the Styled to Rock family is so special. All of the other contestants were so different from each other and that made the whole journey even more special getting to know everyone’s talents and personalities. Even though we were all competing against each other, we all felt each other’s support and expectations to be the best that we can be and that made me want to compete even harder and perform better than ever, I don’t think I’ve been in a situation like that before, that’s why it made it so hard to see someone being sent home,” he said.

The lucky contestants were personally selected by international songstress Rihanna, who is also executive producer of the show, based on their creative merits against thousands of other applicants from across the country.

Popstar Rihanna is executive producer of the show/Photo courtesy of Styled To Rock

“Being handpicked by Rihanna was amazing. Totally out of this world. I spent my whole life day dreaming of opportunities to showcase my talent and then Styled to Rock show, which is produced by Rihanna, comes along to make my dreams come true and that totally rocks. When I met her for the first time, going over my designs and my goals as a designer, it felt so great and she was very encouraging of my talent,” said Ralph, whose family hails from Umigan, Pangasinan in the Philippines.


The freelance designer, who runs his own independent label I AM RALPH, claims to have been inspired by designers like Kim Jones and JC/DC, to name a few.

Describing his signature style, he explained: “I would say my designs are very sporty and street wear related. I’ve been really inspired by the 2012 Olympic Games held here in London this year. I loved all the colorful uniforms of each country and knowing that the athletes performed at their very best due to what they were wearing, makes me feel proud to be a designer, so I take this in consideration when I’m designing. I like my style to be casual, relaxed and comfortable to wear. I would relate my designs to labels such as Nike, Lacoste Live, American Apparel and JC/DC.”

Born in the Philippines and raised in England from the age of seven, the Filipino designer feels a strong affinity to his heritage and is proud to wave the flag of his native country.

“I think it’s also important to say that I really want to use this chance to show case Philippines to its best light.

Like Jessica Sanchez on American Idol this year, she showed everyone the amazing voice of her country. I want to prove that Philippines is a country of talented people, full of creativity, imagination and the desire to stand out and make proud of their home country,” he enthused.

The show is searching for a new designer with enough potential to carve a career in high fashion and be able to dress rockstars and film stars.

Each week, contestants are given a task to design for international musicians, including Scissor Sisters, Pixie Lott, Rizzle Kicks, Cheryl Cole and Katy Perry.

Rihanna chooses the winner for every challenge, alongside fashion industry mentors: designer Henry Holland, stylist Lysa Cooper, and popstar Nicola Roberts.

“Fashion and music go hand-in-hand. I’m looking for the fresh, new, trendsetting designer. We’re looking for the next superstar designer to dress superstars,” said Rihanna in the show.

Styled to Rock is on UK's Sky Living every Tuesday at 9pm.

---

...the "Next Top" Judge

Pinoy fashion blogger Bryan Boy: 'Next Top' judge

 

May 30, 2012

GMA News

 

 

Another Filipino is on the path of international stardom — Bryan Yambao, more popularly known as “Bryan Boy,” was selected as a judge for the reality show "America’s Next Top Model" (ANTM) Cycle 19.

 

 

 

 

In a post on his Facebook account, Bryan Boy, 27, said he was excited about becoming a judge in the popular American show.

 

The host and producer of the show, supermodel Tyra Banks, even tweeted that she was with “Pinoy Fashion Blogger” Bryan Boy, who signed a contract with ANTM on May 25.

 

Earlier this year, Yahoo News reported that long-time judges J. Alexander, Jay Manuel and Nigel Barker would not be returning for the show’s 19th season. 

 

Aside from Bryan Boy, the other judges for the upcoming season are model Rob Evans and fashion publicist Kelly Cutrone, Yahoo said.

 

From web developer to fashion blogger

Bryan Boy was a web developer before he became an internationally-renowned fashion blogger, making rounds of the hottest fashion scenes in the United States and Europe.

On his website on Wednesday, he posted a blog about "BRYANBOY’S NEXT TOP PROJECT."

 

"Who knew all roads lead to Los Angeles? Never in my life I thought I’d end up moving tens of thousands of miles away from home to fulfill something that’s a dream to many. In a very bizarre twist of fate, here I am, blogging from my new home in West Hollywood. I’ve relocated to the City of Angels; one could say I’m an Angeleno now. An angeleno who can’t drive. Hah!" he said.

 

"I’m sure you’ve heard the news. I’m thrilled and honored to be part of America’s Next Top Model Cycle 19 panel!" he added.

Bryan Boy started blogging about fashion at age 17. He made one of his first major breaks in 2007 when a video he made about world renowned fashion designer Marc Jacobs went viral.

He even got the attention of Jacobs himself, who named a designer bag after Bryan Boy.

 

According to the magazine The FilAm, the presence of Bryan Boy is eagerly anticipated at collection unveilings, "his fondness for fashion often a source of intrigue because Bryan Grey-Yambao (or is it Francis Bryan Yambao?) comes not from a fashion capital but a country often associated with extreme poverty. How did he learn to accessorize in fur? How can he afford a Hermes bracelet?"

 

The New York Observer explains the influence of this monstrously popular blogger in its February 8 issue, “How Fashion Blogger Bryanboy Became a Front-Row Fixture:”

 

“He helped establish—or at least propelled into the mainstream—many of the tropes of the fashion-blogging genre, like the blogger’s gushy après-shopping post (“I fell in love with this Alexander Wang leather and canvas backpack the first time I saw it when Rumi and I went to the Opening Ceremony store in LA …”), the endless starring-in-the-editorial-of-my-own-life photographs of the blogger wearing designer outfits, and the blogger’s mainstream media crossover…

 

“He also helped set the standards for designer ‘gifting’ and disclosure of same in the fashion blogosphere, an arena where it is currently considered acceptable for a blogger to take international airfare, accommodation, designer goods and sometimes even celebrity-style appearance fees from the major brands they cover.” - Andrei Medina, VVP, GMA News

...the Sailor becomes the designer

Fil-Am ex-sailor places 2nd in 'Fashion Star' design tilt in US

May 26, 2012

GMA News

Jessica Sanchez, the 16-year-old Filipino-Mexican-American runner-up in the reality singing contest "American Idol," was not the only person with Filipino roots to bring honor to the Philippines recently.

Like Sanchez, Filipino-American Ronnie Escalante Jr., 33,  also placed second in a US reality show -- National Broadcasting Company's (NBC) "Fashion Star," the search for the next big brand in fashion.

According to a report of the news site Asian Journal, Escalante was declared runner-up of "Fashion Star' after 10 weeks of amazing showmanship.

The grand prize winner was Kara Laricks who received a $6 million contract for her creations to be sold at Macy’s, H&M and Saks Fifth Avenue, three of America’s biggest retailers.

The show gave 14 unknown designers the opportunity to ‘be the next big brand in fashion’ when they showcased their designs every episode to America under the guidance of celebrity mentors and fashion moguls Jessica Simpson, Nicole Richie and John Varvatos.

Asian Journal said many Filipino-Americans were rooting for Escalante, dubbed the “resident master of flounce and glamour” who earned a total of $420,000 in four sales.

On a blog posted on the NBC website a day after the finale, Escalante said: “Last night was bittersweet.. The Fashion Star experience has been a life-altering experience. And sadly, it’s over for now… I won’t trade it for anything. And as the other designers say, ‘it takes a lifetime to get in the room around these people."

The Navy Times Scoop Deck earlier said Escalante was a former sailor who grew up in an agricultural province -- Bulacan -- but was "surrounded by fashion, as his cousin worked as a ‘beader’ in a local fashion house."

His biography posted on the official website of "Fashion Star" said "at the age of 17, Escalante and his family moved to the US and soon after, he joined the US Navy where he served for four years."

After serving in the military, Escalante studied at a fashion design school in San Francisco.

Escalante later moved to Columbus, Ohio to design for Abercrombie and Fitch at their headquarters.

He worked in the Female Outerwear Department for two years where he learned the tricks of the trade not only in fashion but also in business. - with Andrei Medina, VVP, GMA News

...the "Top Models' in Manila

'Top Model' alums reunite for PH fashion show

 

ABS-CBNnews.com

05/26/2012

 

 

MANILA, Philippines – Former contestants of the reality model search "America's Next Top Model" are in the country to walk the fashion week runway donning Filipino creations.

 

 

Allison Harvard (left) and Dominique Reighard (right)

Former "Top Model" contestants Dominique Reighard (Cycle 10) and Allison Harvard (Cycle 12), who both returned for the "All-Stars" edition of Tyra Banks-hosted show, will represent local clothing line Bench in the Philippine Fashion Week on Sunday .

Reighard and Harvard are set to walk the runway wearing celebrity designer Rajo Laurel's new line for Bench, and are gearing up for their launch endorsement for fashion designer Michael Cinco's new Bench fragrance "Impalpable."

"It's goning to be a fierce show. I'm excited to walk for Rajo's jean line, and to work with Michael Cinco with the launch of his fragrance. It's going to be super exciting. I love Michael," said Reighard, who finished fourth in last year's "All-Star" season.

"I'm excited to be here in the Philippines, the energy is incredible. And I can only imagine if it feels like  this stepping off the plane, the day of the show,  it's going to be insane," Reighard added.

On being reunited months after their stint on "Top Model," Harvard, who finished runner-up, admitted having lost touch not only with Reighard but with other former contestants as well.

"I will say that we lost touch a little bit post-show, but was really excited when I heard [Reighard was] also coming. I just haven't seen or spoken to [her] in the situation we're in," Harvard said.

"I just think it's really refreshing and it's nice to reconnect with someone perhaps even after losing touch because people grow a lot in a short time span. It's nice to see the same people in a new place and be productive in new ways -- in a much more professional environment without any underlying twists," she added.

Reighard and Harvard join the growing stable of international celebrities endorsing Bench, which includes American pop singer Joe Jonas, "American Idol" finalist David Archuleta, "Pretty Little Liars" star Lucy Hale and "The Vampire Diaries" actor Michael Trevino.

---

...the Fashion star finalist

Fil-Am ex-sailor now in Top 3 of 'Fashion Star' design tilt

 

 

May 12, 2012

GMA NEWS

 

 

 

Apparently, Jessica Sanchez was not the only one who made it to the Top Three of a prestigious reality competition in the United States.

Filipino-American Ronnie Escalante Jr. also made it to the Top Three of a reality show -- National Broadcasting Company's (NBC) "Fashion Star," the search for the next big brand in fashion.

 

 

Filipino-Mexican-American Sanchez, 16, made it to the Top Three of reality singing competition "American Idol" on Thursday night (Friday morning in Manila).

On May 8, Escalante, 33, made it to the Top Three of "Fashion Star" along with fellow contestants Kara Laricks and Orly Shani.

 

"Fashion Star" started in March this year with 14 unknown designers, 11 of whom were already eliminated in the previous weeks.
 
The three top global retailers in the US -- Macy's, Saks Fifth Avenue and H&M -- bid for exclusive rights to carry a designer’s work each week.

Three mentor-judges help out the designers: singer-actress Jessica Simpson, singer-TV personality Nicole Richie, and world-renowned fashion designer John Varvatos.

The first ever winner of Fashion Star will be awarded $6,000,000 in orders for capsule collections in Macy's, H&M and Saks Fifth Avenue stores.


Escalante's journey to fame

Escalante grew up in the Philippines but moved to the US as a teenager.

The Navy Times Scoop Deck said Escalante was a former sailor who grew up in an agricultural province -- Bulacan -- but was "surrounded by fashion, as his cousin worked as a ‘beader’ in a local fashion house."

According to his biography on the official website of "Fashion Star," "it was in grade school that his knack for fashion design flourished. Escalante would sketch clothing designs in the back of his school notebooks."

"At the age of 17, Escalante and his family moved to the US and soon after, he joined the U.S. Navy where he served for four years," the site said.

After serving in the military, Escalante studied at a fashion design school in San Francisco.

NBC said Escalante's "senior-year collection won him a prestigious internship at Chado Ralph Rucci and Zac Posen in New York City. He hasn't looked back since."

According to his personal blog, Escalante was born to Ellanor Eugenio and Ronnie Escalante Sr. at San Jose, San Miguel, Bulacan, Philippines.

At age seven, his interest in fashion began as he would sit beside his mother while she read magazines.
 
He carried his passion for fashion  to school as he sketched designs on the back of his notebook during his free time – sometimes even during class.

Escalante excelled in his Home Economics class especially in beading and sewing projects.
 
At one point he was asked by his teachers if he wanted to compete in an embroidery competition to which he replied, “Aren’t they only for girls?”

He always declined.
 
At age 17, his mother told him that they were moving to the US, a dream come true for Escalante.
 
His family first stayed at his uncle’s house in San Jose, California. Soon after, Escalante joined the US Navy to travel and explore the world while earning money for college. 
 
His four-year stay with the Navy included helping out in operations for the "9/11" or September 11, 2001 attacks in the US.
 
Later, moving to Jacksonville, Florida, Escalante went to a business school while working as an Assistant Builder for a home building company.

He also worked as a bartender for a local bar during weekends.

Another two years flew by before he was finally able to pursue his dream of going into fashion.
 
Escalante took up BFA Fashion–Womenswear course at the Academy of Art in San Francisco.
 
Escalante later moved to Columbus, Ohio to design for Abercrombie and Fitch at their headquarters.

He worked in the Female Outerwear Department for two years where he learned the tricks of the trade not only in fashion but also in business.- Andrei Medina, VVP, GMA News

...the promoter of Pinoy culture

UP grad now a world-class designer promoting Pinoy culture

 

China Jocson

GMA News

April 18, 2012

 

 

Leonora Luisa “Len” Cabili, a graduate of the University of the Philippines in Diliman, is now a world-class fashion designer who is committed to promoting Philippine culture through her international clothing brand "FILIP + INNA."

Aside from being a Clothing Technology graduate of UP, Cabili was also a former member of The Bayanihan Philippine National Dance Company, which became her avenue for her

love of tradition and dance.

 

During her years with the dance group, Cabili was drawn to their costumes which are often traditional Filipino wear.

These Philippine costumes exhibited intricate patterns and color combinations that are recognizably local and some, even tribal. 

These eventually became Cabili’s inspiration for her international brand FILIP + INNA, which she started in 2010.

With the help of tribal workers, designer Luisa "Len" Cabili (right) manufactures one-of-a-kind clothes that are sold in various parts of the world.

Asked how she managed to make her clothing brand global, Cabili told GMA News Online that   “there are no shortcuts, work hard on creating the best product and always stay true to your vision and mission. Also, pray for opportunities.”

The FILIP + INNA line features designs exclusively embroidered and handcrafted by several

Filipino tribes, namely, the T’boli, Maranao, Gadang and B’laan.

 

Len incorporates these distinct Filipino elements with classic silhouettes to produce one-of-a-kind pieces.

She commissions tribal women to embellish, weave, and embroider the clothes, and since they are handcrafted, most patterns vary from one another.

FILIP + INNA items are also considered exclusive, making only a maximum of 10 pieces per design.

 

The uniqueness of the designs and the labor of love that goes to every piece are some of the brand’s formula that captured the international market, Cabili said.

“They appreciate the work that goes into each dress. They love the fact that it is made by hand and they enjoy hearing stories behind the brand. They are amazed at the work done by the different groups," Cabili shared.

"I am grateful and hopeful. The challenge to do better for each collection is constantly before us,” she said.

FILIP + INNA is a brand exclusively sold abroad through trunk shows, travelling souks and global sites.

It already boasts of a following in the United States for it has been around New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and The Hamptons.

FILIP + INNA also just finished a successful run of sales in neighboring Asian countries like Singapore. International designer, Tory Burch and American Socialite Amanda Hearts were recent patrons.

FILIP + INNA will also soon sell in Europe.

This year, it is launching a new accessory line and adding both a men’s line and a children’s line of clothing.

 

“The dream plan is to open a store in New York! Only God knows when that will happen - but I pray for it. There is so much hard work before that dream becomes a reality,” Cabili said.

 

FILIP + INNA not only helps in preserving the indigenous craft but also enriches the lives of tribal communities because portions of its sales go to funding a school for the tribes.

 

“I am inspired by anything Filipino. This is my main design philosophy," Cabili said. - JLA, VVP, GMA News

...the passion for fashion

Filipino designers shine in London charity show

by Patrick Camara Ropeta,

ABS-CBN Europe News Bureau

03/13/2012

 

 

5 / 10 LK Dance Company performing native Filipino dances for the charity event by Prospero World By PATRICK CAMARA ROPETA, ABS-CBN Europe News Bureau

LONDON - A handful of talented Filipino fashion designers from around the world wowed the crowd at a society fundraising event by a UK-based philanthropic group.

Prospero World presented the first ever London Philippine Fashion Show in aid of the Ayala Foundation, a non-profit organization aiming to provide solutions to poverty issues in the Philippines.

Held at the trendy Victoria House Basement in Holborn, the event featured eye-catching designs of haute couture, cocktail dresses, evening gowns, and unique accessories.

Designers and brands on show included Jasper Garvida, Bergamo, Cary Santiago, Celestina, Federico de Vera, Josie Natori Couture, Joyce Makitalo, Jun Escario, Lesley Mobo, Lulu Tan Gan, Mich Dulce, Michael Cinco, Pepito Albert, Rajo Laurel, Randy Ortiz, Silk Cocoon, and Wynn Wynn Ong.

“It was fabulous and well-attended by the elite crowd,” said Michael Cinco, a Dubai-based couture designer best known for his elegant luxurious designs popular with Arab royals and Filipino celebrities, and championed by supermodel Tyra Banks on television series ‘America’s Next Top Model’.

“This is a very good platform, especially for us designers who are not based in Manila, and showing here in London, such a beautiful and vibrant city for fashion designers like us. I’m very happy to part of this event, and it’s for charity,” Cinco added.

High society

The charity fashion event was attended by distinguished guests from the worlds of finance, business and fashion, who seemed enthralled by the designs on show, providing regular outbursts of gasps and cheers as models walked on the runway.

Princess Marie Chantal and Prince Pavlos of Greece were also in attendance, as well as British author Toby Young, and BBC ‘Antiques Roadshow’ presenter Philip Mould.

Philippine Tatler Editor Anton San Diego and Manila Bulletin Creative Consultant Melo Esguerra flew in from Manila especially for the event.

“There are a lot of business moguls, global taste makers and influencers, it speaks so much how this event is well-received by the global community,” observed Esguerra.

“I find it to be a blessed and privileged position to be in London right now, watching the showcase of the best of the Philippines, the best of designers, that actually sends a message to the world that Philippine style is so distinct and world class.”

The event raised approximately £112,000 on the night from tickets and donations, as well as auctions of antiques, fashion items, and trips to Asia.

Fernando Ayala de Zobel from the Ayala Corporation was at the event to lend his support to his family’s foundation. He told ABS-CBN Europe: “The audience seemed to enjoy seeing all the designs from the Philippines, so I’m very happy with the way it turned out. We’re always very willing when other groups try to help the Philippines. Our designers were always very generous with their time. When the Filipino community get together in these countries, they’re always very generous. All of that attracts people to our country, and to be in a fashion capital like London is a great opportunity to showcase the great talent that we have in the Philippines.”

Good education

Proceeds will go towards an educational project by the Ayala Foundation. Launched in 1998, Centex aims to provide high quality education to bright students from the poorest backgrounds. It currently works with two state schools in Manila and Batangas, and has consistently topped rankings for the National Achievement Tests in the Philippines.

“We really hope that these children will get into the best universities and share their knowledge. It’s important to have great mentors, that’s why I really believe in this project,” enthused Alicia Motte-Munoz, one of the ‘sponsored models’, a group of 12 business professionals who raised funds for the charity by strutting alongside professional models on the catwalk.

“I’m half-Filipina, half-French, and I really believe in education, and so when they asked me to become one of their models and help them fundraise, I found it very difficult to say no, and so I thought I’d beat my stage-fright and give a hand.”

Ayala de Zobel revealed that the event already raised a guaranteed P8 million for Centex after costs have been deducted.

Discovering Philippines

The London Philippine Fashion Show was organized by Prospero World, a London-based philanthropy consultancy firm advising groups and individuals on the most effective way to do charity.

Prospero World Director Zita Schutt came up with the idea after a research trip in the Philippines in 2010, where she was exposed to the difficult circumstances of impoverished Filipinos.

Whilst in the country, Schutt was encouraged by a friend to visit Makati where she discovered a whole new world of Filipino fashion designs.

“We had a look and we were so amazed because we didn’t expect that,” she recalled.

“A year later, when we were talking to NGOs (Non-Government Organizations) in London, they said people don’t know anything about the Philippines. They don’t know about the amazing creations, and about the fun that people have. And we wanted to give them that. Let’s change their minds, and let’s give those children that we saw to make a huge difference to their communities.”

She concluded: “I really want people to have an amazing time, to see the dresses, to help the kids, to go to Philippines on holiday, and to embrace this place.”

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