‘The Spanish fashions of Pedro Rodriguez’

In February 1962, the top Spanish couturier, Pedro Rodriguez came to Manila for a two-day fashion show at the Philamlife Auditorium, then the venue of cultural events. Señor Rodriguez’s atelier was in Madrid, but he has outlets in cities in Europe and the United States.

Formal portrait of Pedro Rodriguez

Isabel

Manila was the first city in the Far East to have the privilege of viewing the creations of Rodriguez, billed ‘The Spanish Fashions of Pedro Rodriguez.’ His belief: the keynote of true elegance is simplicity, which his four models known only by their first names — Angeles, Pilar, Isabel, Jane — displayed on the ramp.

Angeles

Conchita Sunico

The fashion event was for the benefit of the Philippine Tuberculosis Society, sponsored by The Philippine Herald. Two of Manila’s leading society figures chaired the show, Conchita Sunico and Chito Madrigal.

Chito Madrigal

For over 40 years, Casa Rodriguez had produced beautiful distinctive clothes for the elite ladies of Spain. Born in Valencia, Rodriguez started his career in Barcelona as an apprentice in a tailor shop. He married Doña Ana Maria, who was also devoted to fashion art.

Pilar

With Rodriguez in Manila was his son Joaquin and daughter-in-law Marta Holgado, who managed his fashion empire.

Jean

Described as ‘exuberant, charming and consistently artistic,’ Don Pedro believes that every woman possessed an individuality all her own, and therefore should be balanced between his natural love for color and his inherent Castillian sobriety. Both in exquisitely embroidered gowns and in tailored suits, the name of Rodriguez was a widely respected byword.   — RKC