Dress code: Chic in Hermès silk

MANILA, Philippines - Every year, the coveted Hermès silks are celebrated all over the world with a series of events called Swinging Silk. With its ’50s theme décor and gorgeous, authentic Hermès silk props specially flown in, each event shares the same elements like choreographed dancing, the same fun activities and lively atmosphere that make it truly memorable anywhere it is held —from Toronto to Tokyo; from Europe to Asia and Australia.

In the Philippines, the Swinging Silk party held at the Palladium of the New World Hotel was made distinct with décor of Hermès silks hanging from the ceiling and tabletops adorned with various silk patterns. Manila’s fashionable set was shown clips of dance tutorials and party highlights from other Swinging Silk parties launched in other parts of the globe. Retro revelers got lessons from the dance instructors on hand, while others opted to sit still to get hand-painted tattoos of customized Hermès designs on the body part of their choice. The more fashion-forward were taught a thousand-and-one ways to wear their exquisite Hermès silk scarves.

There were ’50s makeovers for guests at the Lancôme makeup station and free-flowing sodas in retro glass bottles and Piper Heidsieck Champagne, and as well as red and white wines from Yellow Tail.

With pulsating ’50s music from a live band and a DJ that kept the party going, guests were treated to cocktail table snacks of truffle popcorn; assorted puff straws of cheddar, chili and parmesan; green olives stuffed with anchovies or jamon Serrano; and cherry peppers stuffed with goat cheese.

The buffet table held even more sumptuous surprises, from a lavish selection of French cheeses that guests paired with assorted breads, rolls, crackers and lavosh, to succulent mini lobster crab rolls and mini Wagyu sausages with caramelized onions and Pommery mustard. Discriminating palates were also sated with duck tortilla chips with a choice of Quezo Fresco, guacamole, tomato mango jam or jalapeño dip; wild mushroom and Brie panini with truffle aioli; foie gras lollipops; and mini smoked salmon, crème fraîche and caviar pizzas.

Those craving sweets chose from a selection of truffle pops, macaroons, mini eclairs and mocha crème caramel treats in spoons. Evening snacks like arroz caldo and mini deli sandwiches were also served.

From the fine wines and splendid spread to the swing on the dance floor, the Hermès Swinging Silk party celebrated the simple pleasures in life as well as one of the most enduring symbols of style, the Hermès silk scarf, which has been a favorite fashion accessory since 1937 of the clique of chic the world over.