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From creative director debuts to model catwalks, Filipinos stole the show this fashion month.
As the fashion month known as the “Big Four” comes to a close, it’s safe to say that there’s a need for celebration amongst Filipinos because of the notables that made waves during the fashion weeks. From Rhuigi Villaseñor‘s Bally debut as creative director to Vogue Philippines‘ cover star Chloe Magno walking the runway of Vogue World, Vogue’s 130-year-anniversary celebration, a roster of forward-thinking makers, icons, and creatives are making the future of Filipino fashion brighter. Below, we’ve listed the most memorable moments of the past fashion weeks that made us feel represented and proud to be Filipino.
Rhuigi Villaseñor Presented His First Collection For Bally
Filipino-American Rhuigi Villaseñor‘s first collection since he was appointed Bally’s creative director has been highly-anticipated—and the Rhude designer didn’t disappoint with his opulent collection in the form of mono-color tailoring and sleek silhouettes. The covetable Milan Fashion Week collection comprises corduroy varsity-inspired jackets, fluid silhouettes, silk ensembles, and distinctly American styles. Paying homage to the heritage of the Swiss label and redefining luxury through his creations, Villaseñor keeps Southeast Asian references in mind by merging commonplace elements found in the everyday and with lavish elements like crocodile-embossed details.
Bella Poarch Took To The Catwalk For Hugo Boss
Filipino singer Bella Poarch walked the runway at the Boss Fall 2022 ready-to-wear show wearing a streamlined, minimalist ensemble consisting of beige trousers emblazoned with a Hugo Boss graphic, a black overcoat, and a two-toned undershirt.
Filipino Designers Made Their Mark On The International Stage
In the New York, Milan, and Paris legs of fashion week, a slew of Filipino designers presented collections. After receiving a Global Award at the 12th annual TOFA (The Outstanding Filipinos in America) Awards, Dubai-based designer Michael Cinco made New York Fashion Week debut. Having previously dressed Beyoncé, Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Britney Spears, and Jennifer Lopez, Cinco is a household name in Filipino fashion. With painterly floral motifs and ornate beadwork, the designer’s scintillating blue and green dresses were a noteworthy feat.
Another designer who showed during NYFW was designer Michelle Ochs of Et Ochs, where she envisioned a floral fantasy for her Spring/Summer 2023 presentation. The collection took on a glamorous approach to idyllic bold blooms, accentuated by an unconventional use of Japanese denim, sensuous ruffles, chrome hardware, crystal embellishments, and power silhouettes. A NYFW regular, the half-Filipino designer has dressed Michelle Obama, Gal Gadot, Lupita Nyong’o, Jennifer Lopez, Mila Kunis, and Lady Gaga. Portraying the “subtle sensuality of flora” in the latest presentation, Ochs pays homage to the female form and the constant evolution of women.
Meanwhile, in Paris, Mark Bumgarner showcased his Spring/Summer 2023 collection at the Ritz in Place Vendôme. With poufs of feathers, oversized bows with lengthy trains, opulent red tulle ball gowns, and a hand-dyed modern terno, the designer merges his usual romantic aesthetic with a couture finish. Through extravagance and attention to detail, Bumgarner’s penchant for whimsical charm takes form in his latest presentation.
Other Filipinos who presented included Puey Quiñones and Dennis Lustico during PFW, and Chris Habana, whose accessories were featured on several NYFW runways.
Cover girl Chloe Magno Made An Appearance at Vogue World
Vogue’s 130th-anniversary celebration Vogue World was a special event commemorating the title’s storied history. A reflection of the ever-evolving nature of fashion, the one-of-a-kind fête called upon the cultural movers and shakers of our time. Our cover girl for Vogue Philippines’ inaugural issue, Chloe Magno, walked the runway wearing a Simone Rocha look with layers of texture (lace, tulle, white broderie anglaise included).
Norman Rene De Vera’s Collaborated With Lutz Huelle For The AZ Factory Collection
Norman René De Vera, the design director of AZ Factory, collaborates with guest designer Lutz Huelle for a standout collection at Paris Fashion Week titled, F is for Friendship. A riff on the AZ Factory alphabet and an homage to the supporters of the label, the collection featured voluminous forms, colorful floral prints, three-dimensional skirts, and sequin-filled trousers.
