A Fashion Odyssey

CEBU, Philippines — The creations of five new designers headlined the graduation fashion presentation, last September 16, of Fashion Institute of Design and Arts (FIDA) Cebu. Held at the Northwing Atrium of SM City Cebu and titled “The FIDA Odyssey,” featured the creations of graduates Ana Lim, Gale Wong, Sheena Si, Tomy and Unna Banares, impressing all in attendance, as their showcased designs were practical with a sense of flair.

Tomy’s “Petrose”

“Petra, described as a rose-red city, is the inspiration behind by collection. My collection is a demi-couture wardrobe set that’s suited for women who want partly custom-made clothing. I understand that the essence of a woman is not defined by her clothes but by her character, hence the reason why they are half custom-made – to allow the wearer to fill the other half with her sense of expression.

Sheena Si’s “Revival”

“[My designs are] inspired by the four seasons and traditional Chinese folklore, and painting elements like flora and fauna. My concept was to take an image and ‘paint’ it on clothing by utilizing digital painting and fabric manipulation processes to make an image. ‘Revival’ is my interpretation of the beauty of creation and its ever-changing renewals and re-renewals.”

Ana Lim’s “Nostalgic Daydream”

“With its natural beauty and organic composition, Machu Picchu serves as the inspiration behind my clothes. These qualities are shown through a sort of ‘back-to-the-past send-off’, when beauty was seen simply by appreciating it, as framed by the raw and savage beauty of nature.

Gale Wong’s “Modern Romance”

“My collection is inspired by the wonder that is the Taj Mahal, a monument that was built by an emperor for his wife. My collection is inspired by the interiors of the structure, like its dome which is gilded with intricate designs. I translated these elements as floral embroideries in my clothes – a design element intended to magnify femininity through sophisticated silhouettes.”

Unna Banares’ “Maya”

“My seven-piece collection is inspired by the pre-Colombian city of Chichen Itza. Most of the details on my clothes reflect the architectural hallmarks of the city, characterized by striking colors and the use of yarn-based textiles.”