Statements of Style

CEBU, Philippines - On whether the weather wraps you with what you wear due to the cold, or strip you off with the heat, you have no choice but to dress up--- or down--- with style.

In bringing the latest trends of fashion for everybody's know-how, models from the Fashion Institute of the Philippines Cebu sport the 'in' wardrobe for the season in Ayala Center Cebu's Summer Soiree.

A variety of different brands introduced a collection of vibrant and exotic colors and patterns to the crowd. The accessories were statements of style; the apparel spoke of personality.

More so, a showcase of local designers' work spelled pride in bold letters for the Cebuano fashion industry. Masterpieces from Akki Espinoza, BruzetteCarmelle, Debbie Lim, Divine Tayrus, Elle Vicentino, Jessie Lastimosa, Kathryn Ramirez, and Mitchie Gallegos were a collection of sheer Sugbuanon talent.

To add to the fashion flavors, the Spring Summer Collection 2012 also featured Penshoppe, Sperry, Skechers, Polo Ralph Lauren, Keds, DC Shoes, Havaianas, For Me, Regatta, Hot Pink Lingerie, Blued, Cocoon, ROX (Recreational Outdoor Exchange), Penguin, Oxygen, Chocolate, Accessorize, and Speedo.

An intricate combination of clothing, accessories and footwear, the collection was a discovery of the extremes--- laid back and loud, vibrant and aloof, sizzling and cool and every bit of sugar and spice.

Penshoppe got playful with caps and cowboy hats as well as re-inventing the mix of stripes in different apparel whereas Blued matched stripes with jumper skirts, long sleeves, and hoodies. Penguin brought out the checkered.

Oxygen on the other hand brought out dresses and cardigans as For Me graced the classic chic look with cool combos of shorts and sleeveless tops.

Cocoon and Chocolate were more vocal with their exotic patterns in dresses and Accessorize was a statement in itself.

Regatta remained reserved, sporting the look of hip yet calm with polo shirts and tops as well as bohemian-styled dresses matched with cowboy hats.

Sperry, Skechers, Polo Ralph Lauren, Keds, DC Shoes, and Havaianas were a diverse bunch of comfortable footwear that will take one to beautiful places.

Hot Pink Lingerie was sizzling hot, giving justice to ROX's donning the summer look.

Speedo concluded the show with their ready-for-the-beach wear.

Now don't let that apparel wear you! It's your pick to choose the outfit that speaks of you.  (FREEMAN)