An OTT Ode to the 80s with Illustrado’s Ones to Watch in Fashion

CREDITS

Producer: Mon Benitez

Creative Director: Michael Cinco

Photographer: Rozen Antonino

Hair and Makeup: Valentino Montuerto, Jhajha Rivera, Mau Piodena, Ivy Kep Peralta and Darwin Perez

Models:  Paulina and Sandra of Wilhelmina Dubai; Bruna, Gigi, Elena, Eduardo, and Adam of Niche Modelling Agency

Special Thanks to: Glitzy Ranya Robles, Ingrid Aureada, and Amyr Sean Kaiser of Niche Modelling Agency, and Michael Gomez of Wilhelmina Dubai

Production Team:  Rony Aquino, Alwee Villarosa, Paolo Benitez and Antonino Benitez

Production Support: Chris Daymon and Ace Sagario

Shot on location at Lighthouse Studio, Dubai

 It’s 2019s final stretch, and yet it’s like the 80s once again!

The era of big hair, big shoulders, new wave, funk, Dallas and Madonna has been feeding the frenzy of fashionphiles, especially with shows like Pose, The Get Down, Guardians of the Galaxy and even the nerdy Stranger Things gaining in cult following in recent years.  Nowhere in the last decade has cheesy nostalgia and vintage aesthetic been so uber cool with a revisiting of the era laced with all the funkiness and OTT (over-the-top) touches, but minus the awkwardness and the bad hairdos.

Just as the 80’s style and cultural inspirations have crept surreptitiously into pop consciousness lately, Illustrado’s Ones to Watch in Fashion this season have been steadily building up their couture cred in the international, regional and local circuits conquering hearts and runways steadily.  Currently, in varying stages of their careers, these UAE-based Filipino designers share something in common in that together, they are a rising force to reckon with slated to earn their space with the best names in the business.

Alexis Carrington, dahling!

Gigi channels ferocious 80’s screen vixen in this strong-shouldered piece with draped-front by Izhcka Zeta

IZHCKA ZETA

Francis “Izhcka” Zeta Creative Director at Jacy Kay, grew up dreaming about dressing his elegant muse Audrey Hepburn from as far as he can remember.  But for us, if there was a significant fashion icon from the past who surely embodies his fashion values it would be an edgy Marie Antoinette – unabashedly opulent, elegant, rooted in the classics but with a fresh spin, unique, grand.

Izhcka’s fashion statements are inspired by a myriad of curious things from baroque details to the unusual like dark butterflies, moths and lizards, translated masterfully into works of art with intricate embellishment that demand painstaking manhours.  He shares his design philosophy – “It is hard to pinpoint what makes my design style as it can vary according to mood and necessity. My artistic sensibility is such that I can capture a classical Baroque style and also finds myself pondering and working on a modern dress that can be an abstraction of the 21st-century look and feel. I can be working on a stylish floral-themed wedding this week and a goth-inspired theme for a royalty’s daughter. Flexibility, I guess. Or probably just being non-dimensional. Design for me is not just pitting different elements together to form a narrative, but it is about the polyphonic coming together, like the beautiful music coming from an orchestra in the opera house. Each instrument is unique and different, yet the harmony produced creates a story that is understood and is worthy of a standing ovation. Design mirrors that. The coming together of all unique elements in sometimes elegant, minimal, often grand manner, producing awe at the present moment and remembered as a beautiful memory that may become the standard.”

With his eye for detail, the instinct for the unique and his natural predilection for the tasteful, he could easily belong to a couture house in Paris.  Hence it was no surprise when he wowed the discerning Parisian couture crowd with his first-ever runway show with his collection “Monarchs of the Opera” which was equal parts stylish and intellectual.  His new collection is set to appear at two other major fashion shows abroad this year.

His eyes and hopes fixed firmly on the international couture scene, while his work is already well-known and highly sought after in the region, Izhcka’s career path is quite distinctive compared to his peers, just as his eccentric persona and dramatic demeanor cut a different figure from everybody else.

Drama in the Opera

Exaggerated opera coat in cerulean blue, over a deep purple fully-embellished gown on Bruna, by Garimon Roferos

GARIMON ROFEROS

A number of prominent Hollywood and Bollywood stars, international beauty queens, Filipino celebrities, including the Philippine President’s first granddaughter all share one couture label in common – Garimon Roferos, which they have worn during some of their most notable fashion moments in the public eye.

Slims Fashion School-educated Garimon, who was also the 2004 winner of the Concours International Des Jeunes Creatures de Mode in Paris France, has gone a long way since he first got his break in the industry in Riyadh in the ’90s.  Now with his fashion house firmly established in Dubai, Garimon takes pride in creating gowns and other custom garments in his signature style characterized by a feminine silhouette with an artistic edge, realized through distinctive crafting.  Well known in the local and regional market, Garimon has been dominating recently in the bridal show circuit and has received acclaim not only from clients in the Middle East but also requests from discerning brides in Europe and Asia.

Beyond his success in the region, Garimon dreams of staging his own show within the prestigious fashion weeks of Paris, New York, and Milan.  With his distinctive artistry and skills, as well as his pragmatic sensibilities and ability to deliver in his field, that aspiration is a viable reality in the very near future.

Flower Madness

Bias cut royal blue dress featuring heaps upon fantastic heaps of laser cut flowers and royal blue acrylic by Ryan Pacioles, worn by Sandra

RYAN PACIOLES

Funneling creative steam behind the rise of Atelier Zuhra is the modest designer with a cheeky mien Ryan Pacioles.  As the creative force behind the glamorous UAE-based Omani fashion house, Ryan known for his lavish, elegant and ultra-feminine designs always steeped in luxury, has won over royals and celebrities alike.  With an impressive ascent since their debut in Fashion Forward in 2017, Ryan’s designs have been worn around the world from parties of the elite, celebrity red carpets to prestigious runways including Dubai, Paris, London, and Moscow.

Of his process for creating, Ryan explains, “I always wanted to change things, to develop my own aesthetic whether it be based on a painting, a film, or an abstract concept, inspiration is all around us.  I believe in lightness, fragility within the couture capsule. I create dreamy and luxurious dress confections for a woman who wants to feel like a real queen or a princess, with glorious whimsical details to cure and feed everyone’s romantic soul and fantasies.”

Serving as a guide throughout his career, Ryan swears by this quote by American playwright, raconteur, and entrepreneur Wilson Mizner: “Be nice to people on your way up because you’ll meet them on your way down.”

High Voltage High Fashion

Elena in an electric red 80s ribbons-inspired dress with architectural collar and hand-painted floral embroidered appliqués by Angel Villiar de Jesus

ANGEL VILLIAR DE JESUS

Angel Villiar de Jesus pays homage to curves and the female silhouette as the basic foundation of all his creations, earning him a distinct identity as a designer.  The Managing Partner and Designer at Maro’Sha Ricci Fashion, he opened his couture house in Dubai with business partners nine years ago, after gaining experience working for a prominent couturier in the emirates.  He considers having the privilege to grow his fashion business and prosper in the very competitive market in the UAE his modest achievement.

Ever the wanderluster, the soft-spoken and thoughtful designer shares he finds inspiration in nature and its different seasons.  He says, “Whenever I travel, I feel my ability to create is renewed.”  He adds, “The people around me, whether good or bad, also inspire me to be the best version of myself.”   Asked what is it that will make him feel that he’s reached the zenith of his chosen career and passion, he remarks, “When I’m sitting at my beachfront in Palawan with my family, close friends, and my dogs, while my brands are moving strongly and enabling me to support my travels and adventures, that’s when I’ll feel I’ve finally made it.”

Tulle Confection

Sublimely swathed in candy floss green tulle, Paulina in Harvey Cenit

HARVEY CENIT

Steadily on the rise and reinforcing his name among the UAE’s fashion elite at each turn, designer Harvey Cenit has garnered a following in the UAE and beyond the Middle East. He has become a designer of choice for many of the country’s affluent and fashionable and has also dressed a handful of prominent Filipina muses including reigning Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray, indie actress Mercedes Cabral, Barbie Imperial, and singer Morisette Amon.

In less than half a decade, he has achieved a level of success in the industry – a feat that would often take more than double the time for many others. He is the head couturier of Al Aroos Aniqah – a highly revered label among Emarati women, famed for its opulent designs and forte within the bridal field.

His creations are conceived to uplift not only the female form but also the female psyche – all at once feminine and powerful. His pieces are elegant, sophisticated and tastefully embellished catering to the fancies of his discerning wearers.  To Harvey, the ultimate muse is a woman who is strong, independent, and sweet at the same time. He says, “Like an orchid, the Harvey Cenit woman does not need bees to pollenate it; nor a man for her to feel like a woman.  She is always empowered and graceful.”

The New Funky Dandy

Eduardo and Adam in the fresh and irreverent version of the classic blazer by Ronan Cabrito Opina

RONAN CABRITO OPINA

Ronan Cabrito has been a key talent in helping shape Michael Cinco Couture’s burgeoning menswear line working under the creative direction of “The Impalpable” designer himself.  Having been a pivotal member of Michael’s team for the last seven years, Ronan’s keen sense of style coupled with his deep understanding of production as well as fabrics has made him an invaluable member of one of Dubai’s most prominent fashion houses.

With his love for timeless classics and the desire to always find within it, its fresh expression, Ronan delights in working with vivid colors, textures, and embellishments turning what is familiar and expected into pieces that look totally new and current.  “My dream client is Leonardo di Caprio,” Ronan shares.  “His style is classic, timeless, and yet he is very much contemporary.”

As a rising designer in one of the country’s most celebrated ateliers, Ronan has been able to elevate his technical knowledge and experience within the field, placing him in an exciting position ahead of most of his peers.  Undoubtedly, the industry will see more brilliance from this up and coming designer in the years to come.

See what happened behind-the-scenes!

Check out more Illustrado Fashion

Read more about Filipino designers

The post Candy Couture: An OTT Ode to the 80s with Illustrado’s Ones to Watch in Fashion appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

We pay tribute to Rocky Gathercole, one the most unique and bold personalities in the world of Filipino Fashion, who has recently passed away.

They say there’s a very thin line that separates genius from insanity. And nowhere is the thinness of that line even more pronounced than in the case of FIlipino designer Rocky Gathercole.

During a virtual tête-à-tête with the avant gardiste, we unearthed not only the method in his madness, but also the proverbial can of worms… or two.

Story By Lalaine Chu-Benitez

Photo by Filbert Kung

Styling, Hair and Make-Up by: Ginno Alducente

Model: Jasmine Maierhofer

Experimental, unpredictable, explosive and quite simply – mad.   He, of the fantastical creations, whose muses include insect women, gaudy showgirls, and phantasmagoric goddesses who all exist in a warped intersection between total fantasy and hyper reality.   Rocky says on his take on style as-a-matter-of-factly, “My designs are, to put it simply, from my weirdest, wildest, wonderful world (www.rg) where I am the ultimate dictator of fashion. I have a gazillion idea in my mind and fantastical is probably the simplest adjective we can associate them with. The real word to appropriately describe them has yet to come from another universe!”  He adds, “More than anything, my primary concern, most often than not, is the availability of materials to be able to realize my vision.”

Rocky Gathercole in Illustrado Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf.

For those who wonder who on earth in their right mind could wear his creations, the designer explains his style with utmost clarity, “My creations are absolutely ‘not normal.’ I’m the first one who will attest to that. They’re not for the faint hearted. You don’t deserve to wear a Gathercole if you’re not very confident, bold and brave. The strong females of this age have quite a crystal clear idea of what and who they are as individuals.”

He continues to explain, “Maybe my translation of what is ‘wearable’ is still unfathomable to those who don’t realize that fashion is a form of self-expression. I wouldn’t have survived in this dog-eats-dog rag trade for more than two decades if Arab women didn’t find my dresses wearable. As for the less than extremely daring, I’ve got huge surprises coming soon so that others can also experience wearing my signature.”

In an industry where originality has been the topic of much heated debate and where, he is regarded as an outsider by those who look down upon his perplexing fashion sensibility and less than bourgeois ways, the designer has been the subject of hushed talks, sometimes even ridicule. Unfazed, however, Rocky Gathercole cuts the image of a singularly focused design savant determined to march to the beat of his own drum. 

He acknowledges, “When I was still starting to find my identity as a designer, Thierry Mugler influenced and inspired my creations.” But he adds with brutal frankness, “However, it is not the same as the definition of ‘inspired’ by some of my colleagues. I would take some details and add my own touch or come up with my version with respect to the resources at hand. I’ve always been consistent with my ‘insanity’ as a designer.”

Hammering on the point of contention in the current state of Philippine fashion, he emphasizes, “If you will copy, justify it – if you can’t be original. Not everyone is creative. Some may be lucky with their contacts and that’s why they are famous. But fame does not necessarily mean better in ideas than everyone else. People in fashion, particularly in Dubai, a place where I am so used to people’s peculiarities – are mostly self-proclaimed. Some are paying and are dying for image. Some are trying very hard, acting out an image.”

That comment is bound to sting and ruffle more than just a few feathers.  But then again Rocky Gathercole, who’s got both admirers and enemies in the industry, does not want to be known for his delicacy in delivering his ferociously candid take on things.

Asked about his thoughts on being labeled as a costume designer, he answers passionately, “My response to that, as a ‘costume designer,’ is that they don’t know what costumes really are! I will categorically say that all the designers in the Middle East have always been costume designers. Anyone who uses a glue gun, Elmer’s glue or E6000 is not a couture designer!”

He, then adds, “People hate me for being straightforward, but I just despise dishonest people. If I am not welcome in a group, it’s the least of my concerns. It’s just their way of unconsciously declaring that I am in a league of my own… I am my own group.”

 Truly, deciding how one feels about Rocky Gathercole, his creations, his out-of-the-fashion-mould persona and razor-sharp tongue that would always say what others won’t,  is by no means a simple task.  Still, between his two decades in the Middle East, his successful shows in Miami, New York and Los Angeles (where he received a standing ovation last year), the successful launch of his atelier in Manila, and just recently a lauded fashion show where he shared the stage with celebrated Manila designer Rajo Laurel, and received praise from the iconic Imelda Marcos herself – the irreverent fire-starter-slash-underdog seems to be having the last laugh.

Ecstatic after his latest runway conquest at the celebrity-studded opening of Wiltower in Manila, the designer gushed, “Sharing a stage with the great Rajo Laurel is another dream come true.  But seeing Madame Imelda Marcos clapping for my designs is something I have never imagined. Now, I can say that I’m already a full-fledged fashion designer!  Glory to God!”

So what’s next for the designer?  What else does he dream of? Rocky thoughtfully answers, “I actually don’t dream anymore. I’m living my life as an artist in progress. That’s how I am – who I am right now. People can say anything about me. I can deal with that now with maturity. I still have long way to go in this business. I can’t say what the future holds for me. I don’t want to know. I want to be surprised. And I promise you, everyone will definitely be surprised as well.”

Love him or hate him? The question is probably immaterial – because whichever you choose, the fact stands that you just can’t ignore Rocky Gathercole. 

And through all his trials and tribulations, the hushed talks and negative labels, the eye popping and sometimes disturbing designs, the ‘standing o’s’ and Imelda Marcos’ figurative ‘bravo,’ one can truly say that the designer is indeed a success where other Filipino designers have yet to prevail – and that is in finding his own voice, and having the courage to be insanely and uniquely himself.

The post Filipino Designer – Insanity: A Look into the Madness of Rocky Gathercole appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Siréne
She calls from the sea.
Her beguiling voice heard in the soft whispers of silk;
her enigmatic beauty framed in yards upon yards of allure.
She beckons to the sea.
Her beauty blinding sailors with the dazzle of her seductive promise,
as the restless waves crash on the creamy limestone rocks
rumbling as the giant dragon sleeps.

Photography: Herson Nebaya
Styling: Argie Salango
Makeup: Gery Penaso
Assistant Makeup: Anton Patdu
Hair: Rochelle Lacuna

Featured Designers: Aris Pico, Eric Delos Santos, Randall Salomon, Miguel Amante, Kariz Polintan, Kathleen Que and Jun Jun Ablaza

Model: Jodilly Pendre

Shoot Assistants: Badz Albert and Mark Levenson Ocapan

Shot on location at Kapurpurawan Rock Formation, Burgos, Ilocos Norte.

Special Thanks to the Tourism Board of Ilocos Norte and the Ilocos Norte Media Incentives Desk, Communications and Media Office

The post Sirene appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Filipino Fashion: To the Desert of the North

Photography: Dr. Marlon Pecjo with Milo Sogueco assisted by Loubert Estrada

Styling: Rey Santos; Make-Up: Noel Flores; Hair: Dimple Callada

Model: Charmaine de Guzman Aknine

Fashion by: Romyda Keth (Available at Ambre, Ground Floor, Vernida 1 condominium, 120 Amorsolo St., Legaspi Village, Makati, Philippines.  + 632 292 1575 and 893 1554)

Special Thanks to Ry Farinas

Just at the outskirts of the city of Laoag, after a trek through a long dusty road, is one of the Philippines most surreal landscapes – La Paz, the Desert of the North.  With one side providing a spectacular panoramic view of the cool waters of the South China Sea, and the other side stretching to inland Ilocos Norte, the 85 sqm geological monument of undulating sand dunes, and beach is a serene other worldly spot quite unique to the archipelago.

Here, the barren earth meets the endless blue sky and calm waters in one dramatic moment of silence providing perfect backdrop to smoldering frocks with nomadic inclinations.

The post Filipino Fashion: To the Desert of the North appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

All photos captured by Bethoven Filomeno (@caughtbybetongslens)

Michael Cinco

michaelcinco.com

Ezra Santos

ezracouture.co

Furne Amato

amatocouture.com

Ryan Pacioles

Atelier Zuhra

Read more on these designers: 

100MIFG – Michael Cinco

100MIFG – Ezra Santos

100MIFG – Furne One 

100MIFG – Ryan Pacioles 

Read more about Filipino Fashion on www.illustradolife.com

The post Filipino designers captivate audience at Fashion Forward 2019 appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Lifestyle products crafted from natural and eco-sustainable materials will be the focus of this year’s Philippine participation at INDEX Dubai, the biggest design event in the Middle East and North African (MENA) region, which opens this 17-19 September 2019 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Organized by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), the export promotion arm of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in partnership with the Export Marketing Bureau (EMB) and the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Dubai (PTIC-Dubai), the participation will feature seven companies from different lifestyle sectors namely, furniture & furnishings, home décor and fashion accessories.

“This participation will bring to the forefront the resourcefulness and ingenuity of our skilled Filipino craftsmen and designers,” said DTI-CITEM Executive Director Pauline Suaco-Juan. “Through their intricate and innovative pieces, these exhibitors will help elevate Philippine design in both the Middle Eastern and the global markets.”

The seven companies will feature their latest creations that promote world-class craftsmanship made with locally sourced, eco-sustainable or repurposed materials like old fabrics, driftwood pieces, natural seashells from non-endangered species and other reusable objects that are typically considered as “waste,” to emphasize that responsible sourcing is an integral aspect of the Philippine design industry.

Repurpose, Reuse, Recycle

Exhibiting under the Philippine participation are companies that include James Doran-Webb and Furniture Doctor. Both use raw and re-engineered drift wood to create original and functional furniture pieces.

Another furniture exhibitor, Coast Pacific, perfectly balances the use of natural and synthetic materials in developing new weaving patterns and enhancing traditional techniques for their product line. Joining these furniture companies in Dubai are two fashion accessory brands: traditional jeweler, Kit Silver; and minaudière maker, Mele + Marie.

Rounding off the list are two home décor and accessory companies: Arden Classic with their blend of natural seashells and metalworks that depict the magnificence of nature; and Bon-Ace with their home accessories made with all-natural materials designed with Filipino and Italian influences.

DTI-CITEM targets bigger sales in MENA region

After doubling its sales target in last year’s edition with US$2.77M, the Philippines is now eyeing to generate US$2.9M in export sales for this year’s show.

CITEM is partnering with the Export Marketing Bureau to achieve optimum results for this year’s participation, with DTI-EMB organizing business-matching activities during the show proper.

Get up close and personal with the latest eco-sustainable designs from these exhibitors at Stand #4D151 in Hall 3 of the Dubai World Trade Centre, United Arab Emirates, this 17-19 September 2019.

The post PH designers to highlight natural and eco-sustainable materials at INDEX Dubai 2019 appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Photography: Eros Goze; Post Processing: Tom Bolivar; Hair and Make-Up: Jojo Padua and Frankie Melendez; Models: Kylene Ganigan and Darya Kovalenko shot at the Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi

Distinctive architectural details find new perspectives in these three-dimensional avant garde ensembles inspired by some of the world’s most intriguing contemporary structures.

Operatic Contours

By Ruben Santos 

The iconic Sydney Opera House is reincarnated in this dress featuring contours constructed with architectural accuracy.  The dress is made with molded rubber sheets and metallic components set on an ivory jacquard brocade fabric.

Sydyney Opera House 

Sydney, Australia

Designed by Jorn Utzon and completed under the direction of Peter Hall, the Sydney Opera House is one of the world’s most iconic buildings.  Modern expressionist in design, the building’s most significant feature is it roofs – large pre-cast concrete “shells” composed of a section of a sphere with a 75.2 meter radius.  The “shells” set on a monumental podium, are covered in a subtle chevron pattern with 1,056,006 glossy white and matte-cream colored Swedish-made tiles, but appear uniform white from a distance.

Sculptural Freeform

By Ralph Ramirez

From the hem to the bodice, this piece inspired by the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain is a continuous swirling and rising journey from darkness to light. Interpreted in monochromatic tones of black, grey and white, the dress features an asymmetric neckline topped on one shoulder with pure and organic structural form that crown the museum.

Guggenheim Museum 

Bilbao, Spain

Known as the most important structure of its time, this masterpiece of renowned architect Frank Gehry was probably the most mentioned new building of the late 90’s in architecture circles around the world.  The structure done in free form sculptural style features random curves designed to catch the light.  It’s brilliantly reflective titanium panels resemble fish scales, echoing the organic forms that are common in Gehry’s designs.

Curvilinear Fabrications

By Angelo Estera

Combining different fabrications with both soft and tough textures is this dress based on the Yas Hotel.  Calling to mind the building’s distinctive domes.

Yas Hotel 

Abu Dhabi, UAE

A landmark in the UAE, the Yas Hotel and the accompanying Formula 1 circuit is one of the main attractions of the ambitious developments at Yas Island.  The building, designed by Hani Rashid and Lise Anne Couture, principals of New York based Asymptote Architecture, meant to embody speed and movement juxtaposed with the artistry of and geometries of Islamic arts and details, has as its focal point a 217 meter expanse of curvilinear forms made up of steel and 5,800 pivoting diamond shaped glass panels known as the “Grid Shell.”  The “Grid Shell” which has the effect of an atmospheric-like veil features an amazing lighting system which incorporates video feeds, visible from miles away.

Crystal Aggregate

By Dan Delima

A clean sculptural art piece inspired by the crystal formation design of the Futuroscope of Poitiers, France. The dress features molded metallic organza in gunmetal gray.

Kinemax Futurescope

Poitiers, France

Futuroscope is a French theme park featuring multimedia, cinematographic and audiovisual packages.  The theme park made up of many pavilions built of glass and metal – modern materials which give the buildings form and texture, as works of art that make the observer stand and stare, is designed by architect Dennis Laming.  Its flagship building Kinemax, is fashioned after rock crystals thrusting out from the ground.  The structure’s 45,750 ft surface area is covered is with 3,000 reflective glass plates.

 Urban Organic

By Aldwin Ornopia Guardiana

Cut rubber and glass in irregular undulating layers mimic organic forms in this piece inspired by a unique skyscraper slated to punctuate Chongqing, China’s skyline – Urban Forest.  The dress is matched with a voluminous full bias cut cape in metallic fabric embellished with cut mirrors.

Urban Forest

Chongqing, China

Set to change the skyline of Chongqing, China, Urban Forest is an ambitious project from MAD Architects inspired by Chinese landscapes and traditional hillside villages. The commercial high rise with a distinctively organic form is meant to depict a stacked vertical forest in the heart of the city embodying the designers’ affinity to green and sustainable architecture.  Urban forest features curved, abstract shaped floors which have been layered slightly off-center from one another. Connected by a core cylindrical structure, each level’s interior is protected by full length glass windows with a see-through, wrap around balcony, providing transparency throughout the building, making the floors appear to float on top of one another.

Mesh Construct

By Tim Tejares

The sinewy lines and intricate mesh like façade of Kuala Lumpur’s Sunrise Tower are echoed in this dress which uses both soft and industrial materials. The piece features a plunging neckline bodice made of Montana gray silk taffeta embellished with silver mesh strips and exaggerated hips using boning and industrial hose for the web-like structure.

Sunrise Tower

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Designed by Zaha Hadid, the Sunrise Tower set for development in Kuala Lumpur is a design concept that blurs the difference between building and landscape, characterized by fluidity between the interior and exterior. The tower body is developed through a performative outer skin that merges programmatic, structural and building envelope requirements. The design integrates natural light, shading, program, access and views, making the component the key operator of the transition between interior and exterior spaces. The building has 66 floors and an absolute height of 280m. The ground lobby is the primary hub of the tower, defining four different dedicated lobbies for residential, hotel, offices and general public.

Distinctive architectural details find new perspectives in these three-dimensional avant garde ensembles inspired by some of the world’s most intriguing contemporary structures.

Body Canopy

By Ushi Sato

Depicting sensuous curves using metal screens coated with lightweight paper creating asymmetrical waves on the body, this piece is all about movement inspired by The Hotel Marques de Riscal.

Hotel Marques de Riscal

Elciego, Spain

Another Frank Gehry architectural masterpiece the Hotel Marques de Riscal showcases a series of rectilinear elements, clad in sandstone, combined with sweeping panels of gold and pink titanium, and mirror finish stainless steel.  The structure is a former winery transformed into a City of Wine complex, complete with a five-star hotel, spa, museum of viticulture and wine shop.  The building was inspired by the character of the region and its famous vintage.  Hence, the usage of a titanium façade shaped into a ribbon reflecting the colors of the wine Rioja, the silver foil shielding the cork, and the distinctive gold mesh which adorns all Marqués de Riscal bottles.

Engineered Protrusions

By Romel Ma. Tumulak

A bustier and pants ensemble fashioned after the Seed Cathedral – UK Pavilion at the Shanghai World 2010 expo, this piece features plastic straws to echo the fibre optic rods used in the original structure. Plastic sheet cut in different shapes and crystal elements embellish the bodice.  High heeled boots complete the ensemble.

Seed Cathedral

UK Pavilion at the Shanghai Expo 2010

One of the most significant structures built for the Shanghai Expo 2010 is this extraordinary bristling form of 60,000 fibre-optic rods, each with a seed implanted in its tip, created by Thomas Heatherwick and his studio.  Formed from 60,000 slender transparent rods, each 7.5 meters long and each encasing one or more seeds at its tip, the Seed Cathedral is 20 meters high.  As wind moves past this building, its optic “hairs” move gently creating a dynamic effect.  At night, light sources inside each rod makes the Seed Cathedral glow.

Sail Simulation

By Manny Cajoles 

Sculpted metal sheet in pleats formation attached to a wire, form a shape that mimics the sail of a ship channeling the Burj Al Arab, this time in V formation.  The dress is accentuated with diagonal cut mirrors and matched with leggings.

Burj Al Arab

Dubai, UAE

Known as the only seven stars hotel in the world, the Burj Arab Hotel is not only known for its legendary luxury, but also the uniqueness of its architecture.  Designed by Tom Wright, the iconic building stands at 321 meters and mimics the image of the billowing sail of a boat.  The structure features an exoskeleton wrapped around a reinforced concrete tower, with a Tefloan-coated fiberglass “sail” curving across the front, creating an atrium inside.   The sail is made of a material called Dyneon, spanning over 161,000 square feet.  At daytime, the white fabric allows soft natural light into the building, while at night it reflects color-changing lights.

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The post Filipino Designers: Architectural Avant Garde appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

When Middle Eastern mystique, contemporary lines and rich details collide – prepare to be spellbound.

Photography – Eros Goze

Post Processing – Tom Bolivar

Styling – Ginno Alducente and Daze Tan

Hair and Make-Up:  Ginno Alducente

Model:  Nina Naval-Niemczyk

Couture by: Bandoix Flores

Shot on location at the Mövenpick Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel – Dubai

Filipino Fashion: Black Magic

The post Filipino Fashion: Black Magic appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Photography: Filbert Kung & Glenn Peter Perez of Blackfox Photography

Styling: Mike de Guzman & George Palmiano (MGP)

Hair & Makeup: Nanan Villaba

Model: Carlo Ian Adorador

DON’T GO TO PINATUBO.

Don’t go if you’re expecting a run-of-the-mill tourist experience. Don’t go if you don’t want your endurance and patience tested with muscle cramps during the long hard trek. Don’t go if you think it isn’t going to take you at least half a day to actually get to your destination.

But hey, here’s another don’t: don’t knock it until you try it.

It’s been almost 20 years since the most significant geological event of the 20th century, Mt. Pinatubo’s eruption, and along with it came a decade’s worth of substantial environmental collateral damage. But perhaps, what nature has taken away, it gives back through breathtaking landscapes, covered in Mt. Pinatubo’s ashes – majestic, postcard-perfect deserted lands clawing their way back to life, rugged, raw, and determined.  Under the heat of the summer sun, the scenery is bursting with the hopeful hues of ‘feast-your-eyes-on-this’ kind of promise.

If you were to explore this promise, you might as well do it the right way.

On all fours

We were ushered into the first leg of our Pinatubo adventure by rugged 4×4 trucks. Travel Factor’s use of the hardwearing vehicle provided an intimidating yet accessible ride.  The 4×4, a master of all terrains that seemed to recognize the topography like an old friend. Once you get over the mandatory jolt, thump and crash, it’s unlike any other terrestrial transportation you’ve ever been on. It’s the ultimate compromise between the tourist and the adrenaline junkie, which appeases both the sightseeing and the thrill-seeking requisites of the trip.

Sheer printed top and harem pants, both by Gerry Katigbak; leopard-printed shawl by Tango; silver chain necklace, dried waterlily sandals and striped blue shawl used as waist wrap, all by AC+632; silver cuff and red Ifugao band, both by Tesoro’s

At our truck stop mid-way, we were able to admire the beauty on standstill; untapped and wild. Here, one can’t help but be in awe. Some of the locals may have already pegged us as peculiar, for taking photos in a place they consider merely as home. Halfway through our journey, we encountered an incline, a treacherously steep one, and even before we could weigh in on the odds that our trucks won’t plummet downwards, we were back on our seats, moving towards the aptly named route, the Skyway.

It was a one-way alley that could only fit one truck, sandwiched between elevated plateaus. The repetitive uphill-downhill movement makes one think that the excavated road is limitless or maybe a result of some paranormal activity where you just keep going back to where you came from. It could be that the ashes had obstructed a portion of our vision, but doubt inevitably creeps in when, for over 25 minutes, there was you, your companions, and your truck-against the vast territories of nature, impeded by the limits of the human senses. Thankfully, the endlessness did have an end.

Denim pants by Jeffrey Rogador; skeletal necklace and tusk necklace, both by OS Accessories by AJ Omandac; brown leopard-printed shawl  and brown braided belt, both by Tango; leopard-spotted scarf by AC+632; black native bracelet by Edmir Lagui at Bobon; wooden clasp bracelet by Tina Bonoan at Firma

But Pinatubo isn’t just about to let you get away with it so easily. After lahar composites clung all over your body, and you’ve adapted to the robust springing up and down (and even sideways), you leave the ‘comforts’ of that hour-long ride, to stand on your own two feet, and embark on a Trek to Remember.

Trek-wrecked

Once you begin on the (supposedly) hour-long hike to the crater of Mt. Pinatubo, a very strange thing happens. The concept of time, communication and technology gets left behind in the truck – all those 21st century appendages we’ve come to identify ourselves with are well, gone.

Ten minutes turn into 30, and time seemed as boundless as ever, as you tread the tumultuous terrain. The absence of any network reception was unnerving at first – but with it came the price of unadulterated liberty – the strange feeling of willingness to disconnect from the entire world, even for just 11 hours. It was as if Pinatubo held us all hostage, keeping us in a bubble where only a few things mattered, but there was no ransom – you were your only way out.

The arrest, though, is a gift that kept giving. But Mt. Pinatubo heeded a two-way relationship, in which you’d have to give something back, too. In this case, it was every fiber, every inch of muscle in your body, fighting their way through all kinds of rocks, altitudes, formations and slopes; and with every trickle of sweat came the reward of getting closer to the destination, the pinnacle and purpose of the entire journey in the very first place.

It takes at least another hour of treading rocks, mud, water, and the possible serpent cameo to get to Mt. Pinatubo’s crater, and on its last stretch, a strenuous path that resembles a staircase posed as the last roadblock to victory. “You’re getting closer when you start seeing the sun,” one of the tour guides said. And as we begin to see prickly shafts of light streaming through the leaves, we knew it. “It” wasn’t some abstract concept, a sun-induced delusion, or a figment of our imagination that we’ve been trying to reach for hours, it was here. It was now.

The sum is crater than its parts

The sun hit the mountains around the crater perfectly, creating contours and shadows that highlighted its best assets: the ash-filled tops resembling the Alps, and the lake that designated itself as the queen bee attraction of Mt. Pinatubo. For a moment, the pain and dehydration cease to bother, as you gasp and marvel at the majesty of it all. And there it is: the proof of your burden in all its glory, generous in its charm and allure – Mt. Pinatubo’s invincible crater, something so stunning beyond human comprehension. It was daunting to see something so potentially destructive that serene, like it could do no wrong.

Pink tribal printed barong, carved wooden idol mask used as necklace, both by Tesoro’s; wooden choker and wooden bracelet, both by Tina Bonoan at Firma; silver coin ring and dried waterlily sandals, both by AC+632; leopard-printed shawl by Tango; corded belt by George Palmiano; dropped-crotch pants by Gerry Katigbak

Choirs of angels seemed to ring in my ears as I took the final steps back to our 4×4 truck. Parched and nearing fatigue, I tried to recall how we all ended up looking like we had such a dreary predicament (that was only partially true). Our journey began in Capas, Tarlac, by a security checkpoint called “Garden of Eden.” Little did we know, the noncommittal biblical reference was every bit prophetic, and with surprising accuracy.

So here’s something you hear often: if there’s anything we humans can’t resist, it is trying something for the first time – even going as far as wandering through that Garden of Eden.

Conquer Mt. Pinatubo through Travel Factor

Travel Factor has been providing accessible adventure tours since 2006, and with its current lineup of Surfvivor, Dive, Backpacking, Foodtrip, Photoholic and Conquer, one is provided maximum adventure through maximum variety. The Mt. Pinatubo Conquer adventure begins in Capas, Tarlac, and covers all bases, including roundtrip van transfers, 4×4 vehicles, and local guides – ensuring that the only fuss you’re left to worry about are the clothes off your back, the contents of your backpack, and the physical limits you’re willing to overcome during your excursion. For more information e-mail tours@travelfactor.org or phone Team TF at +632-746 5119, +632-964 2527, +63917-847 5341. Also check-out thetravelfactor.wordpress.com

SHOPPING GUIDE:

AC+632 – Greenbelt 5, Makati City

Edmir Lagui at Bobon – Markatti Palazzo at The Podium, Ortigas

Firma – Greenbelt 3, Makati

George Palmiano – +63 917 351 8646

Gerry Katigbak – +63 918 941 7189

Jeffrey Rogador – +63 917 208 0227

Nico Agustin – +63 916 259 9945

OS Accessories by AJ Omandac – +63 916 209 5872

Tango – Glorietta 3, Makati

Tesoro’s – Arnaiz Ave., Makati City

Terranova – SM Mall of Asia, Manila

Tina Bonoan at Firma – Greenbelt 3, Makati

Traffic – SM Mall of Asia

Ulysses King at Bobon – Markatti Palazzo at The Podium, Ortigas

The post Journey to the Crater appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Fashion Photography: Dr. Marlon Pecjo

Landscape Photography: Al Benavente in cooperation with the Laguna Province Tourism Office (LPTO)

Styling: Janet dela Fuente

Make-Up: Bem Abelleda

Hair: Ricky Diokno for Kiehl’s

Model: Bea Soriano

Special thanks to Gina Austria of LPTO and guide Mariel Mercoliso

….

Doon tayo magkita

Kung saan may tamis ang simoy ng hangin

At may saya ang halik ng langit sa lupa

At ang ngiti ng araw sa mga mayuming dalaga

Doon tayo magtagpo

Sa mahinahon ang tawa ng lumalagasgas na tubig

Na lugal din ng pagsigaw at pagbuhos ng haring Pagsanjan

Doon tayo magniig kung saan masasamyo

Ang halimuyak ng nagagandahang bulaklak

At madadama ang sidhi ng pag-aagap agap ng takipsilim

Sa pangako ng malihim na gabi

Doon tayo magsimula, sa bayan ng ating bayani at mga manlililok

Sa yakap ng kanyang malambing na bisig

At init ng magiliw niyang kanlungan

Floral Top used as a dress by Wildflower at The Ramp; drop earrings by Get Happy

Haltered tulip minidress by United Pop; clip earrings and bangles by Get Happy; peeptoe wedges by Janilyn

Two piece brown bikini from Salsa Trends by Arlene Sipat at The Ramp topped by a sheer champagne dress by Wildflower at The Ramp; beaded drop earrings and bangles by Get Happy

Sleeveless jumpsuit and printed maillot by Freeway; belt ang bangles by Get Happy; sheer printed cover-up used as a headband by Ensembles

Yellow top with embellishments used as a mini dress by Wildflower; sheer cover-up used as a headscarf by Ensembles; necklace and bangles by Get Happy; sunglasses by Folded and Hung; wedge sandals by Janilyn

Haltered blue and zebra print minidress by Salsa Trends by Arlene Sipat; earrings and bangles by Get Happy

Haltered printed maxi dress The Ramp; clip earrings and assorted bangles by Get Happy; beige peeptoe wedges by Janylin

Floral tube dress from Salsa Trends by Arlene Sipat at The Ramp; green wooden necklace by Ensembles; bangles by Get Happy

The post Filipino Fashion: Postcards from Laguna appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.