Behind the ramp of Metrowear 100

MANILA, Philippines - Since its inception seven years ago, the Samsung Metrowear series has evolved to be one of the much sought-after fashion gatherings in the country. Metrowear 2009 marks an important milestone for the Metro magazine as it celebrates its 20th year.

In this celebratory spirit, Metro marks a first in Philippine fashion history with the biggest gathering of fashion designers from different generations on one runway. A hundred designers from established groups and independent circles will showcase one definitive piece as a tribute to the magazine’s anniversary.

The Cebu designers will showcase the fun and adventurous vibe of summer with resortwear. They are composed of Oj Hofer, Raymond Kuan, Protacio Empaces Jr., Mario Edward Escario, Rinante Manabat, Philip Rodriguez, Marichu Tan, Edwin Ao, Arcy Gayatin, Salvador Malto, Cary Santiago, Albert Arriba, William Manahan, Wendell Quisido, Marty Ty, Harley Ruedas, Philip Tampus, Barbie Alvez, Peewee Senining, Ivan Belocura, Jojo Romoff, Rei Escario, Dino Lloren, Mique Yapching, Dexter Alazas, Felix Yu.

The Young Designer’s Group (YDG) including Patty Eustaquio, Mitzi Quilendrino-Bustos, Reian Mata, Louis Claparols, Brian Leyva, John Herrera, Ferdi Abuel, Eric Delos Santos, Veejay Floresca, Regine Dulay, Aries Lagat, and Jerome Lorico will present their designs for streetwear. The red carpet will dazzle with designs from the Fashion and Design Council of the Philippines (FDCP), which include Dong Omaga-Diaz, Randy Ortiz, Tonichi Nocom, Vittorio Barba, Tippi Ocampo, Rajo Laurel, Ivarluski Aseron, Joey Samson, Ricci Lizaso, Ramon Esteban, Gerry Katigbak, PJ Arañador, JC Buendia, Jojie Lloren, Hindy Weber-Tantoco, Lulu Tan Gan, Len Nepomuceno-Guiao, Avel Bacudio, Frederick Peralta, Jerome Ang and Joel Escober.

The senior independent designers will share their take on modernism: Patrice Ramos-Diaz, Rhett Eala, James Reyes, Dennis Lustico, TC Alvarez, Jan Garcia, Francis Libiran, Mich Dulce and Norman Noriega. Presenting their designs for Modern Sportswear are young independent designers including Debbie Co, Martin Bautista, Puey Quinones, Kate Torralba, Chinny Pichay, Religioso, Rosanna Ocampo, Tina Lirag and Nat Manilag.

Metrowear 100 will also be joined by the Fashion Designers Association of the Philippines’ (FDAP) Ronaldo Arnaldo, Johnny Abad, Ivan Dela Cruz, Delby Bragais, Rholand Roxas, Roland Lirio, Edgar Madamba, Jontie Martinez, Ole Morabe, Oskar Peralta, Lito Perez, Raoul Ramirez, Richard Papa, Fanny Serano and Edgar San Diego who will exhibit their love for couture. The accessories designers will have their creations on display. They are Joey Enriquez, Gerry Sunga, and Amina Aranaz- Alunan from the FDCP, Rocio Olbes, Tina Ocampo and Arnel Papa. Wrapping up the Metrowear 100 ramp is the master Ben Farrales who will showcase a three-piece collection.

The Metrowear 100 fitting offered a glimpse of what will happen at the show. Metro Magazine editor in chief Katrina Holigores shares what makes Metrowear 100 different. “This is, historically, the biggest gathering of designers under one roof at one time. It’s a Metrowear, and probably a Philippine, first. It’s also different because this time the designers are asked to pay homage to 20 years of Metro by creating something exclusively for the show.”

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Metrowear 100 is on April 30, 7:00 p.m. at the Manila Hotel Tent City.