Project Runway 2 winner, brides, et al. at Festival Mall

MANILA, Philippines - Avid viewers of the hit reality series Project Runway and its Philippine adaptation know this statement to heart — in fashion, one day you’re in and the next day you’re out. 

If that’s the case, homegrown designer and Project Runway Philippines 2 winner Manny Marquez is most certainly “in.”

To say the least, winning Project Runway Philippines was life-changing for Manny. Milan in Italy, for one, definitely changed his fashion perspective.

“That scholarship at the Instituto Marangoni in Milan helped me a lot as a designer,” he says.“It’s impossible to go to another country and not be changed. Milan did that to me even as I still subscribe to my design principles and what I want my work to say,” Manny explains.

Manny’s creations are inspired by classic silhouettes and timeless looks. Even in the show, he was known as a member of a group called “Nyora” (short for señora, as opposed to the more avant-garde group called “Wengwangs”) who tended to favor simple, effortless looks.

 “What good are clothes if they aren’t wearable? That’s kind of defeating the purpose of making clothes,” he expounds. “I’m mindful of trends, but I am aware that they come and go. I want my designs to last. If they can be an heirloom, to be handed down to generations, that would be better.”

The designer from Laguna says getting advice from local fashion legend Jojie Lloren during the show was a dream come true for him. He also looks up to Italian designer Roberto Cavalli not only for his luxurious creations, but for another reason that hits closer to home.

 “I love how he’s also a family man. At the end of his shows, he always walks with his wife Eva. I want to do the same, walk on the runway with my family. It will show those watching my shows that my family comes first to me,” he says.

Brides have always been one of Manny’s top clients so he knows what many of them want for their gowns. “I’ve noticed that a lot of my brides want ruffles on their gowns. There are also requests for cut-outs in the dresses. Pretty much, though, I make sure the gowns look good on the clients. What works for one girl may not work for another, after all. So I also pay attention to a client’s figure and height,” he expounds.

Manny Marquez bridal creations will be among those to be featured in the bridal fashion shows to highlight Now and Forever, The 2nd Bridal Festival slated on May 5 and 6, at Festival Supermall in Alabang, Muntinlupa City.

The event will also highlight the latest in the wedding creations of Edd Sy, Evelyn Guerrero and other noted fashion designers.

Now and Forever, which will run from May 3 to 6, will be a one-stop shop for couples who are planning their altar date.