Retail redux: Trendspotting on the RTW runways

MANILA, Philippines - A couple of years ago, the reaction to RTW shows during Philippine Fashion Week ran the gamut from lukewarm (“At least it wasn't terrible!”) to horrified ("It was terrible!"). However, the most recent offerings have begun to show more than just potential — all of a sudden, it was possible to not be judged for wanting to wear local RTW. While most shows have relied on the smoke and mirrors effect with clever styling in the past (leaving many spectators wondering why certain pieces were nowhere to be found in stores), this year, it’s possible to take most ensembles apart and find something worthy to add to your wardrobe. It doesn’t hurt that local brands have made more of an effort to keep up with trends — from streetwear-inspired silhouettes to classic sportswear pieces, keep your look updated with the latest collections from these brands.

‘90s child

The recent bout of nostalgia for everything ‘90s is evident in the spades of plaid and grunge-y runway offerings, heralded by Hedi Slimane’s work for Saint Laurent Paris.

Prep school

Though few of us will ever actually get to see the insides of an Ivy League-institution, you can at least look you're among the top one percentile of test scorers with the right mix of basic cardigans, pleated skirts and vests.

Take it to the streets

Get your A$AP Rocky (or Rita Ora, depending on your preference) on with these streetwear-inspired get-ups.

Digital love

The Mary Katrantzou-effect is still very much alive in the high street. Dizzying mirror images and retail interpretations of her signature tromp-l’oeil prints invade the mass market and we’re all the better for it.

Team players

The sportswear trend is here to stay, it seems, and a classic varsity jacket seems like a good place to start.
 

Clash of the prints

Plaid with floral, disjointed stripes and horizontal stripes, 3D over geometric patterns — the only rule to abide by is go bold or go home.

Skirt the issue

Several brands couldn’t resist giving their pieces a high fashion feel by pairing basic tops with tight, leather pencil skirts or printed mullet skirts.