Friendships are always in fashion
During her brother President Noynoy Aquino’s last State of the Nation Address in 2015, Kris Aquino wore a Maria Clara by Michael Leyva, then a relatively unknown 25-year-old designer, which drew raves and raves.
“She trusted me to make her gown for PNoy’s last SONA when I was nothing. I will be forever grateful for that. It opened so many blessings and opportunities for me as a designer,” says Michael, who helped arrange the visit of Kris’ sons Joshua and Bimby to First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, who President Bongbong Marcos has pointed out in an “ambush” interview, “is their (Josh and Bimby’s) aunt.” Sari Cacho Cojuangco, who was married to President Cory Aquino’s oldest brother Don Pedro Cojuangco, was the sister of the First Lady’s mother Milagros. So Liza and Kris have common first cousins.
The Marcoses and the Aquinos have long had a political feud, with a continuing plot not unlike those in political dramas.
Liza Marcos also goes to Michael Leyva for some of her gowns and was special guest when Michael held a fashion show at the Goldenberg Mansion last year. Recently, the First Lady wore a blue terno by Michael when she and the President welcomed New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to Malacañang. She also wore Michael’s creations during President Marcos’ recent state visit to the Czech Republic.
“Our First Lady now is also giving me so many opportunities and she accepted me and loved me despite everything she knows about me. It only shows how good and genuine her heart is,” says Michael. He was referencing the fact that he never hid his closeness to Kris and her sons.
“Ate Kris knows how I love her and her kids,” says Michael. “That’s what friends are for. Hindi nag-iiwanan.”
Michael says he approached the First Lady regarding the Aquino grandsons’ wish to visit her.
“I asked Ma’am FL if the kids can visit kasi may pasalubong sila for the FL from Ate Kris,” says Michael. According to President Marcos, the First Lady helped Kris’ sons with their travel arrangements. He did not elaborate.
Mr. Marcos described Joshua and Bimby’s visit as “a very fine gesture on the part of the Aquino family.”
“I think it sort of, I suppose put a little more — a personal, human interaction between our families,” he said.
Michael couldn’t be any happier that two influential women close to his heart have paved the way for this “personal, human interaction” between the Marcos and Aquino families.
“I always mention to Ate Kris how nice the First Lady is to me, kaya she is very happy,” continues Michael. Kris is now in the United States where she has been undergoing treatment for her autoimmune diseases.
“And I always make kwento to FL how I love the kids and Ate Kris,” adds Michael, who recently mounted a fashion show, “Inspired Beginnings,” at the Conrad Manila.
No wonder Michael is inspired, for blessed are the peacemakers.
‘Inspired’
Of his recent collection unveiled at the Conrad, Michael says, “I would say that this collection is inspired by the happiness in my life today, which is currently vibrant and joyful, making this pastel collection a celebration of happiness and positivity.”
This former flight attendant who stepped up to fill his late brother Bryan Leyva’s shoes — and sewing machines — says, “This collection of soft pastel shades, intricate details, and luxurious materials reflects our desire to evoke a sense of optimism.”
Asked to describe the Michael Leyva of today, almost nine years since he first caught the public’s critical eye, he says, “Michael Leyva today is embracing change and seeking new inspirations for continuous growth and innovation. Today, he is happy and grateful to be doing what he truly loves. I am thankful to have the opportunity to pursue my passion and contribute to the world of fashion with each new collection.”
And this showed at his “Inspired Beginnings.”
Under the stylized clouds of Randy Lazaro and within the beautiful confines of Conrad Manila’s Forbes Ballroom, the models presented Michael’s inspired pieces as they walked down the ramp.
He opened his collection with an off-white gown encrusted in crystals and a matching neckpiece that doubled as a cascading cape of tiered ruffles. The dramatic piece was a fitting prelude to the show ahead.
In quick succession, Michael filled the runway with a flurry of pastel pieces, which can be imagined on bridal parties in some fairytale wedding off “Haute Couture Land.”
“After our all-white shows in May, we wanted to switch things up. The Peninsula show focused predominantly on bridal wear in all white, emphasizing elegance and tradition. In contrast, this new collection explores playfulness and vibrant colors, aiming to offer a fresh perspective,” explains Michael.
The show ended on a “bright” note as four Miss Philippines 2024 queens, led by no less than Miss Universe contender Chelsea Manalo, walked down the ramp in more traditional white dresses.
As in fashion, so in politics.
When a reporter asked the President, “Would you say the feud between the two families are okay now?,” Mr. Marcos replied,
“Well, we have always been okay. We just don’t agree politically.”
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