MANILA, Philippines - The study of chrysopoeia, which refers to the transmutation of base metals into gold, is a branch of alchemy that dates as far back as the time of ancient civilizations. And although the possibility of this alchemical pursuit was conclusively disproved by scientific evidence in the 19th century, it’s the allure of luxury, as well as the idea of magical transformation, that serves as inspiration for Rajo Laurel’s cruise 2017 collection.
Dubbed Alchemie, the House of Laurel collection eschews conventional notions of workwear dressing, taking it into unexpected territory with nifty plays on texture and proportion. Cases in point: while billowing bottoms get a leg up with vertical stripes, a tangerine double-breasted suit is reworked into a sleeveless floor-grazing dress and the classic white button-down is embroidered and cinched at the waist. Meanwhile, no-nonsense fabrics such as stretch crepe and chiffon get a fashion promotion with the addition of pleats, drapes and lace. On the menswear front, Rajoman designs served boardroom looks that are far from boring. Shorts are double-pleated, structured jackets are cropped, sweaters are color blocked, trousers are outsized, and button-downs are split open at the shoulders. Rajo Laurel deftly demonstrates the transformative power of clothing — but this time, he takes his signature aesthetic and brings it into a workplace setting.
Alchemy is usually linked with science, magic or philosophy. This time around, we can add fashion to the mix.
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“Alchemie” is available at House of Laurel, 6013 Villena cor. Mañalac St., Barangay Poblacion, Makati City. The collection will also be available at Rajo! Power Plant Mall and Shangri-La Plaza.