Ice queen

CEBU, Philippines - "The idea of clashing two elements is so pronounced that you can see they've blended so well," begins Mark Anthony Tenchavez. "It's magical when you see it at first glance. It's mystical when you try to check on the pattern."

Tenchavez, the creative director of Shandar (the brand famous for artisan earrings, bracelets, neckpieces, fascinators, and shoes), has opened the gates of his design house to worshippers of sparkling things. While earth tones dominate the fashion scene, the Austrian pearls and crystals he encrusted on each piece illuminate the Ice creations: the name he coined for this latest collection.

"The colors are very earthly, nothing fancy. It brings me back to the basics because I would want to bank on something that will keep me grounded always. The sparkles of the color connote sophistication: opulent but not vulgar, grand and not plebeian, elegant but not loud," he describes. "I cannot enumerate the diversity of the designs used but one thing is common amongst all: That it was produced with an idea in mind of the wearer."

Based on his track record, Tenchavez has been lauded for his mastery in statement—nay, oversized?—designs with eye-blinding details. However, this time around, he must've mustered self-control in the process. For a loyal devotee to intricacy, it's a virtue to view beyond the design.

"The ice collection is something close and special to me because it was materialized at a time when I had contentment in life. My inspiration is the distinctive Cebuana aura that radiates even in the most crowded place on earth," he tells us. "It speaks of beauty from both inside-out and outside-in. It is the testament to my hard work, to be very keen into details because that I believe is very, very important."

Model: Michelle Binas,

Shandar ambassador and

Queen Earth 2013

All accessories from Shandar

(0927-680-5066)

Height is might

Shandar designer Mark Anthony Tenchavez remakes the crown fit for the newly hailed Miss Cebu. Go through the mind of the creator as he tells you how this crown can withstand the game of thrones.

What makes this crown different from the previous design?

This year's crown is different in terms of depth and meaning. Its height symbolizes our strong hold of our values, which are inculcated since birth. Its pattern symbolizes unpredictability, representing the many surprises of life. 

Its glitter signifies hope that through difficult and dark times, we will all serve as light to each other's path. 

Its width represents the vastness of our scope: tapping each other's back, making each opportunity to be charitable. 

Its over-all aesthetics stands for its presence, making it not only different from the rest but at the same time, making a big difference in touching the lives of Filipinos—and my fellow Cebuanos, in particular.

The designer shares:

The design philosophy stands on the values of faith, unity and diversity.  Faith that if you will believe and try your best, you will attain whatever it is that you want to aspire. 

Unity: because even if we are geographically challenged, we manage to become one during the hardest of times through our incomparable ways to help. 

Diversity: because no matter how complex and how individually different we are, we have that distinction to surpass challenges and soar to greater heights.

But foremost would be its sustainability: That a crown can and should withstand the test of time just like any other royalty. A crown should be something that will enhance one's achievement as this is the proof of her regal presence. It should not be something that is difficult to wear. 

A crown is the pinnacle of one's accomplishment; this will be the living legacy that will be passed on from generations and beyond.