MANILA, Philippines - Ito Curata, known for dressing affluent women in sophisticated long gowns, loosens up with his resortwear collection presented at Fashion Watch. Barely-there shorts in tan-enhancing colors of white, orange and royal blue, of which I counted at least eight, paired with sheer tops will appeal to the young and the leggy. More conservative ensembles, like pantsuits in a subtle checked material, are on hand for shopping expeditions along the Corso or a beachfront brunch.
The collection is largely based around one print in varying hues of watercolor stripes, appearing in long cover-ups, floaty dresses and a hooded tunic. If the pattern doesn’t strike your fancy, there are still a few solid-colored items like the neon orange backless gown with cascading ruffles, sure to electrify any summer night. Men get a bit daring with fuchsia swimming briefs and gauzy drawstring pants that can be really sexy when worn with masculine confidence.