In 1962, Philippine high fashion invaded the Seattle’s World Fair, with Karilagan’s Barbara Perez and Bambi Lammoglia leading the array of top models gathered by the Couturiers, Designers and Beauticians Association of Manila.
Who’s who in alta moda led by the legendary Ramon Valera participated in the fashion show. Valera was named National Artist a few years back, the only designer to be so honored.
Other participating couturiers: Ben Farrales, Aureo Alonzo, Tessie Galang (Madonna), Christian Espiritu, Pitoy Moreno, Bert Hernandez and the late Pedrito Legaspi, Karlos Burgos, Eve de Jesus, Arturo Cruz, Gilbert Perez, Gunding Noguera (Tres Chic), Casimiro Abad, Ernie Arandia, Rudy Dandan.
With the Karilagan group was the late make-up artist Nanding Marasigan.
The Seattle World’s Fair audience gave the fashion collection, distinctly Filipino, enthusiastic applause. — RKC