Here’s Your Look at Vogue’s Exclusive Gala Afterparty—Including Your Favorite Stylish Celebs

See the fashion-forward guests that attended Vogue’s exclusive anniversary gala afterparty.

It takes two elevators and a maze-like route to arrive at a certain speakeasy. Situated floors below the ballroom, the inconspicuous bar was the destination for guests who quickly changed into their afterparty looks, following the exhibit tour and reveal of Vogue Philippines’ September 2023 cover story.

The bar’s entrance is an unassuming door, easily mistaken for a stockroom. But once it swings open (thanks to a man in a flat cap and checked trousers, no less), one will find themself transported to the Prohibition period of the Roaring Twenties, when alcohol was banned in America. Vintage suitcases and worn-in derby shoes greet you at the entrance, a teaser for what’s to soon come: to an intimate party whose allure lies in its clandestine theme.

Low lights set the mood—guests alternated between perching on velvet loveseats and mingling at the bar, all the while finding time to dance to DJ Marga Bermudez’s punchy pop and classic techno beats.

Liza Soberano wearing Louis Vuitton at the Vogue Philippines Gala Afterparty at Backroom. Photo by JL Javier

Then there are cheeky details scattered all around. On bookshelves and tables, issues from Vogue Philippines’ first year share space with expedition books and antique-inspired trinkets. With each order of “Big Fella,” one of the cocktails on Vogue’s curated menu, one receives a prompt clipped to the glass. On one of the negronis: Name one person on your table you’d trade closets with.

Scan the fashionable crowd that gathered at the exclusive afterparty, and you’ll find no shortage of answers. Dressed to the nines were the likes of internet phenomenon Bretman Rock, who swapped a sculptural Rajo Laurel frock for a ruffle Fanci Club top, and musician Jason Dhakal, whose custom Bagasáo ensemble took him straight to the afterparty from the exhibit.

Then, there was a certain posse that made its way to the event in their best Louis Vuitton ensembles. Actress Anne Curtis opted for a contrast peek-a-boo-shoulder mini dress, while actress Liza Soberano donned a black dress and vest, adorned with gold embellishments and jewelry. Also in attendance were actress and singer Nadine Lustre in a vinyl bust tweed dress, and editor Bryanboy whose white tweed vest elevated an all-noir look. Meanwhile, content creator LA Aguinaldo was clad in a print button-down shirt layered with an embroidered jacket.

Nadine Lustre all smiles around friends at the afterparty. Photo by Gabs Gibbs, assisted by Xandro Miguel

LA Aguinaldo changed into a full Louis Vuitton look for the afterparty. Photo by Mik Primacio

Throughout the evening, cover stars, fashion designers, collaborators, and industry friends made up a buzzing crowd: designers Abraham Guardian and Mamuro Oki, hairstylist Mong Amado, and model Siobhan Moylan were among those who flocked to the floor, dancing and laughing. The party ran on until the bar’s closing time, but guests lingered by the exit as soon as they filed out of the room, exchanging hugs to punctuate each goodbye and take care, it was so great seeing you again.

Here, take a peek into Vogue’s bustling after hours rendezvous.

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