Beauty queens and top models from M.A.C.>Models Association of Cebu provided a time travel of sorts as they became the living mannequins wearing Philip Rodriguez collections of Filipiniana outfits from two beaded and floralia baro't saya in pink and aqua to three silver, white and multi-hued lame terno with fitted bodice that finished off with brocade and piña butterfly sleeved gowns with matching panuelo in black and gold. The menswear are variations of the barong from the traditional to the Nehru-collared done in jusi and piña with tailored sleeves. "A brief glimpse of history translated to fashion of the different eras," declared the designer. The baro't saya were for church and formal functions in the 19th century. The starched and panuelo-ed gowns were de rigueur at the turn of the century. Enter the 50s til the present and the butterfly sleeves stood up into stiff plate-like sleeves that eventually became the modern terno. It is imperative to take note that these outfits are inspired by actual historical fashion pieces yet they reek of modernity and are far from costume-y. One can actually wear it in these modern times. Absolutely!
Bravissimo Philip Rodriguez! A toast to director Junjet Primor and his staff for a splendid presentation.