The best of Karilagan

In the early ‘60s, ‘the hostess with the mostest’ of Manila’s high society, Miss Conchita Sunico, organized Karilagan to showcase Philippine fashion here and abroad. Loosely translated, Karilagan meant loveliness. Tita Conching, as Miss Sunico was fondly addressed, was Carnival Queen during the pre-World War II years.

The original models of Karilagan remain unequalled to date, truly the best.

Gloria Romero — the most regal of all movie queens, adored by the public.

Mary Prieto — herself a famous movie star in the ’30s, known as Yolanda Marquez. She appeared in stage plays in the ’50s and ’60s, then a socialite.

Chona Kasten — billed as one of Asia’s best-dressed ladies; daughter of the great nationalist Claro M. Recto.

Joji Felix — ‘scene-stealer’ on the ramp, what with her ballet training, gliding and ‘floating’ with grace.

Conchitina Sevilla — the youngest among the five early Karilagan models, then only in her teens, her pixie beauty a joy to behold.

They toured several American cities, including Honolulu, Los Angeles. San Francisco, Chicago and Seattle, site of the World’s Fair. Featured were the creations of members of Philippine Couturier Association: Ben Farrales, Pitoy Moreno, Ernie Arandia, Aureo Alonzo, Christian Espiritu, Emil Valdez, Arturo V. Cruz, Rudy Dandan, Karlos Burgos and Gilbert Perez. — RKC       

Models wearing a variety of J. Moreno — Maria Claras pose (standing, from left) Joji Felix, Mary Prieto, Chona Kasten; (seated, from left) Conchitina Sevilla and Gloria Romero