Design Dimensions

CEBU, Philippines - Not since Technicolor first stormed the film making industry decades ago has the movies been preoccupied with the fashion flock—in terms of inspiration (many designers were and continually get inspiration from countless movies) and vice versa (fashion related movies almost always are hits like The Devil Wears Prada and Robert Altman’s Pret-a-Porter back in 1994). And picture some classics like Cleopatra and Sabrina without the help of a style connoisseur and you have Elizabeth Taylor and Audrey Hepburn clad in papyrus and a dowdy sack dress, respectively. That’s good timing for the latest immersive experience in movies, the IMAX 3D to collaborate with three distinguished designers Arcy Gayatin, Edwin Ao and Philip Rodriguez and 3 Djs — Bong Suzara, Marlon Orellano and Mael Lavares, for a celebrated pre launch party at The Northwing of SM City Cebu.

And what could be more multi-dimensional than three runways and a gigantic LED screen as part of the sensational set up for the show. The show took wing with the first looks from the featured designers. Arcy Gayatin with her latest Blue Moon Rising collection stayed faithful to her aesthetic, which is texture-laden with a healthy dose of modernity/bohemian sophistication. Lace and lace appliquéd dresses vis a vis color blocked jersey dresses that wowed the exclusive audience (yes, it was by invitation only). The Cebuanos finally were treated to a closer view of Edwin Ao’s Egon Schiele inspired Mutilate collection, a hit at the Tokyo Fashion Week early this year. Black flannel coats, blousons and skirt, asymmetric and twisted dominate the collection. A draped-appliqué minidress here, a pleated and beribboned maxi dress there and closed with quilted headpieces tied into the pouf-ed do’s of the mannequins that constitute Philip Rodriguez’ Shadow Play theme throughout. There were a number of pretty dresses: some dramatic with textured detailing, requisite silk and flannel numbers, and others with brocade fabrication. The designers’ collection that came down the three runways merged into coherence, with a corresponding youthful charge as the models donned their 3D glasses. The IMAX 3D Pre-launch party was, yet, another fabulous production of Cybill Gayatin and Kaye Luym of A – List Events, PR and Advertising. Bravissimo!