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Michael Cinco: A Beacon of Hope for Aspiring Artists Everywhere

Dubai-based Filipino designer Michael Cinco is renowned for his exquisite couture gowns, earning luxury status through his exceptional creativity and masterful techniques. Cinco epitomizes luxury fashion with designs that exude elegance and sophistication, paying meticulous attention to every detail. His passion and innate talent have solidified his standing in the fashion industry. During his first job in Dubai, he revitalized a somewhat conventional fashion house by introducing innovative fashion variations. In 2003, he launched his first haute couture line, marked by vibrant colors, crystals, and eccentric patterns that are unmistakably couture. Since then, Michael Cinco's fashion house has enabled our Creative Director to fulfill his dream of dressing famous celebrities worldwide. And now, here are some of his creations in which famous celebrities wore.

The iconic dress that Jennifer Lopez wears features a high neckline and long sleeves, both intricately covered in sparkling red crystals that create a dazzling effect under the stage lights. The bodice fits snugly, accentuating her figure, while the skirt flares out dramatically in a classic A-line shape. The gradient effect on the gown transitions from deep red at the top to a lighter, almost pinkish hue at the hem, with crystals scattered throughout to enhance the ombre effect. Her hair is styled in a chic, high bun, complementing the elegance of the gown. The overall look exudes sophistication and glamour, embodying the essence of high-fashion couture.

The gown that Aishwarya Rai is wearing is a vibrant blue and purple creation adorned with elaborate patterns that resemble peacock feathers. The bodice is form-fitting with a deep V-neckline, highlighting her décolletage and featuring delicate straps that add to the overall elegance of the dress.

The standout feature of the gown is the dramatic train, which fans out behind her in a spectacular display. The train is richly embellished with the same intricate feather-like patterns, creating a mesmerizing effect that commands attention. The combination of bold colors, meticulous detailing, and the voluminous train gives the gown a majestic and regal appearance.

Pia Wurtzbach is wearing a breathtaking, floor-length evening gown that is a deep, rich shade of blue. The gown is strapless with a sweetheart neckline, accentuating her shoulders and collarbone. The bodice fits snugly, highlighting her waist before flaring out into a voluminous skirt that flows gracefully around her. The fabric of the gown is adorned with countless tiny sparkles and shimmering details that catch the light beautifully, giving the entire dress a radiant, starry appearance. The intricate embellishments add depth and texture to the dress, making it look both luxurious and enchanting.

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Intricate Embroidery and Lacework: The Artistry Behind Mak Tumang's Designs

Inspired by the whirl of his imagination and his unwavering passion for fashion, Mak Tumang began as pure, raw talent. He strives for modern techniques and haute couture and pursues luxurious elegance, earning a distinguished reputation in national and international fashion circles. Renowned for his intricate embroidery, detailed lacework, and elaborate designs, he has made a significant impact on the industry. Mak Tumang has dressed numerous celebrities and beauty queens, with one of his most famous creations being the "LAVA" gown worn by Miss Universe 2018, Catriona Gray. Crafted to the highest standards, his iconic designs continue to break barriers and gain global recognition.

The image below is one of the designs that Mak Tumang created and was supposedly the 3rd gown that the Miss Universe Catriona Grey was supposed to wear.

The other dress which Catriona wore during the Miss Universe pageant, was inspired by the "ibong adarna".

Mak Tumang is celebrated for his mastery in intricate embroidery, meticulous lacework, and elaborate, statement-making designs. His creations are characterized by their opulence and attention to detail, reflecting a blend of modern techniques with traditional craftsmanship. Each piece he designs tells a story, often drawing inspiration from Filipino culture and heritage, which he artfully incorporates into his work.

His contributions to fashion go beyond mere aesthetics; he is a proponent of innovation and sustainability, often exploring new methods and materials to elevate his craft. His designs are not only visually stunning but also crafted to the highest standards, ensuring that each piece is a work of art. While rooted in traditional craftsmanship, Mak embraces modern technology in his design process. He uses digital tools for pattern-making and design visualization, which allows for precision and innovation. Laser cutting and 3D printing are among the techniques he explores to push the boundaries of fashion.

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Filipino Pride: Albert Andrada's Journey to Paris Fashion Week Couture 2023

Albert Andrada's most famous work was for Miss Universe, where he designed Pia Wurtzbach's stunning blue gown for her 2015 crowning. He designed a gown that many Filipinos from all over the world remember as our winning piece for the Miss Universe 2015.

For his first show in Paris, the Filipino fashion designer presented his takes on the barong and other Filipinianas. The collection featured men’s and women’s pieces in shades of beige, off-white, and white, a nod to the sand, water, and seashells of the Philippine beaches. Adding a touch of flair to the pieces were the blue and gold embellishments, as well as ivory seed beads and paillettes. But what made the pieces truly Filipino was the designer’s use of jusi fabric adorned with delicate callado embroidery.

Women’s pieces featured many of Albert’s hallmark design elements such as electric pleats, elegant cape, and romantic drapery. But he saved his most dramatic piece to close the show—a white garb with layers of ruffles and subtle linear embellishments. That piece was recently worn by Miss Universe 2022 R’bonney Nola in El Salvador.

Albert's pret-a-porter creations for men and women highlight the aesthetics, traditions, and grace of his country of origin. Albert showcased Filipino craftsmanship through embroidered pieces inspired by Maria Clara-sleeved outfits, Balintawak sleeves, and shimmery camisas. He also incorporated Philippine indigenous flora, beaches with powdery sands and seashells, and the internationally renowned barong. Albert's utilization of the Filipino cloth jusi combined inspirations from his successful profession to create an engaging presentation for his audience.

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Exploring the Sustainable Fashion Revolution with Ditta Sandico: The Wrap Artiste of the Philippines

Ditta Sandico is well-known for incorporating local fabric typologies into her designs. In recent years, the versatile designer has developed materials that are uniquely Filipino. Her collections now include Piña-lino, Banaca, Abel-iloco, Banana rayon, Mangyan Habol, and the newly added Seda-lino from her kitchen lab. But what distinguishes the designer is her modest goal of developing sustainable livelihood projects for women, which has significantly improved the socioeconomic position of a fishing town in Catanduanes.

Known as the "Wrap Artiste" of the Philippines, she had the vision to embrace an environmentally friendly design and production process, creatively transforming indigenous fibers such as banana, pineapple, and abacca into a fashion art form, designing wraps that follow the movements of the body, and recycling the scraps to create accessories. Her designs are simple, elegant, and ageless. Dita, an ethical designer, continues to carry the Filipino identity through her collection, revolutionizing the Philippine natural fiber industry by collaborating with a cooperative in Baras, Catanduanes, to train them in natural dye extraction and advanced weaving techniques, thereby providing a sustainable income and revitalizing a struggling cultural heritage.

Proceeding to her newest collection showcasing some of her pieces, the first one is the LA FOGLIA WRAP, which is a leaf pattern, layered to make you step out in style.  A quick pick me up during those moments of lull.  Still in Banaca layers.

Up next is the MORI HYBRID, this wrap is a fashion-forward design for a sleeveless Baro that is intricately layered with Banaca fabrics for a luxurious feel. Its two-tone colorway and striking design structure provide a prominent statement of style and sophistication.

And lastly, this is a TERNO BOLERO BANACA WITH MANGYAN EMBROID. An understated feel of luxury and sophistication, this Terno Bolero made with Banaca fabric features on its sleeves the impeccable skills of the Mangyan in hand embroidery. This is the perfect option to showcase your timeless elegance and contemporary sensibilities.

But the real piece that caught my attention in the first place was the piece Ms. Jenina Anne Lui wore during Miss Universe 2024, which is a handmade, hand-dyed, showing not only the Bayanihan spirit but also the talent, creativity, and ingenuity of our Filipino people. It is crafted from unique Banaca fabric, harvested and skillfully woven in the Philippines. It is adorned with lustrous pearls symbolising the Pearl of the Orient and showcasing our beautiful natural resources. The mesmerizing ombre palette represents the harmonious fusion of Philippine and Australian cultures.

Overall the pieces made by Ditta Sandico can be described as colorful, stylish, and subtly exotic with a worldwide appeal. Her designs prove how well elegance and refinement may go hand in hand with eco-friendliness and social responsibility. As an ethical designer, Dita continues to carry the Filipino identity through her collection, revolutionizing the Philippine natural fiber industry by working with a cooperative in Baras, Catanduanes, training them in natural dye extraction and advanced weaving techniques, providing a sustainable income and giving life to a struggling cultural heritage.

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Exploring the Unique Aesthetic: Kermit Tesoro's Latest Collection "Leucistic Observations"

Kermit Tesoro, renowned for his avant-garde shoe designs, has become an icon among collectors due to the intricate details and craftsmanship of his footwear. The Filipino designer, now residing in Berlin, draws inspiration from a wide range of sources. As a horticulturist, much of his work mirrors the beauty, danger, and excitement found in nature. "I enjoy delving into scientific mysteries, the natural world, and the uncanny," he states.

But before I introduce his latest collection, I would just like to acknowledge one of his pieces that was made for Lady Gaga which was Tesoro’s heel-less design with his famous skull-heel shoes being featured in Gaga’s Gilt collection.

Now moving on to his latest collection which is called "Leucistic Observations".

In 2022, when Kermit Tesoro traveled to the Philippines to source materials such as mahogany wood, piña, bones, abaca, and bakong, he had already established connections and knowledge of where to acquire these organic and traditional resources. Reflecting on his decision to incorporate these materials into his designs, Tesoro explained that it had been a long-term aspiration hindered by the readiness of his ideas and financial constraints.

Regarding the materials used in his creations, Tesoro noted, “The primary fabric I utilize is predominantly piña, a pineapple-based fabric, complemented by glass, acrylic beads, and artificial pearls. The piña fabric undergoes sun-drying and pre-washing, maintaining its natural off-white hue without bleaching. Similar to denim, piña exhibits different tones and washes.”

Embroidered bodices in soft beige showcase intricate silver and gold swirl patterns, adorned with delicate pearl trim. A high-collared, asymmetrical shirt dress crafted from lightweight piña fabric drapes effortlessly over the body, appearing as light as a feather. A flouncy dress, layered with tutu-style tulle, exudes subtle elegance and modesty with its long sleeves, zippered high neck collar, and finely tailored bodice.

In discussing his collection, Kermit Tesoro acknowledges the significance of high necklines, aiming to convey modesty, humility, and contrast with provocative and mystical themes inspired by Philippine culture. He emphasizes the importance of humility in his designs, influenced greatly by his mother, who instilled these values in him. Tesoro's creative process often coincides with personal challenges, such as the loss of his mother in 2014, which spurred the creation of the Polypodis series—a vibrant expression of his emotions and a means of coping with grief through artistic exploration.

As for this collection, I can see that he really embodied the Filipino culture that he has and expressed it in a very unique way. Just by the effort to consider his materials which were predominantly sourced from the Philippines, was mainly because he was familiar with working with those materials and as well as coordinating the color pallet for this collection.

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Building Beauty: Exploring Francis Libiran's Architectural Fashion Designs

Francis Libiran, a renowned Filipino architect and fashion designer, studied architecture at the University of Santo Tomas and later pursued fashion design at the Fashion Institute of the Philippines. His designs are heavily influenced by his passion for travel, nature, architecture, and patterns, featuring signature techniques such as Art Deco patterns, cutouts, custom laser-cut materials, intricate embellishments, and custom embroidery. With over two decades in the industry, Libiran is regarded as one of the Philippines' leading fashion designers, specializing in bespoke and ready-to-wear wedding gowns, evening gowns, dresses, menswear, corporate attire, and accessories.

Among his various collections, the recent collection is called "Sterling" to celebrate 25 years of unparalleled artistry in fashion. His innovative collection drew inspiration from the mythical phoenix. "The Francis Libiran Phoenix Collection is inspired by my 25-year journey in creating wearable art. It tells a story of rising from the ashes, transitioning from gold to gray to black, and culminating in a fiery red gown — The Phoenix," explained the architect-turned-designer.

The dress is elaborate, featuring intricate embellishments, feather-like extensions, and a flowing train with shades of red and beige. The design emphasizes movement, with the fabric and embellishments creating a dynamic, almost ethereal effect. The lighting is dark and dramatic, highlighting the vivid red of the dress and casting deep shadows that enhance the sense of depth and texture.

This next dress is highly detailed with intricate embellishments and a form-fitting silhouette that accentuates the model's figure. It features an elaborate, structured design with sweeping lines and patterns that give it a regal and sophisticated look. The gown is complemented by a dramatic, flowing cape made of sheer fabric that adds a sense of grandeur and movement to the ensemble.

This last dress is an exquisite, floor-length ball gown that exudes elegance and drama. The gown features a strapless, sweetheart neckline, and the bodice is intricately adorned with red embellishments that shimmer under the light. The embellishments are detailed and follow a pattern that extends from the bodice down through the voluminous skirt.

The skirt of the gown is particularly striking, with a full, flowing silhouette that fans out dramatically, creating a sense of grandeur. It is richly embellished with a pattern of red and possibly dark undertones, giving it depth and a sense of movement. The intricate designs on the skirt appear to be inspired by organic or art Deco motifs, with swirling lines and shapes that catch the light beautifully.

My insights for his collection is that he showcased his archetectural skills incorporated with his knowledge for fashion, I do think that he skillfully shows his craftsmanship at another level. As for his designs, the lines do show elegance but also very unique patterns. It's his brand’s objective to promote Filipino beauty, artistry, talent, and craftsmanship internationally and take on the global arena and I do see that in his collection not just this one but also in every single one.

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A Glimpse into the Fashion Empire of Josie Natori: CEO and Founder of The Natori Company

Josie Natori, a Filipino-American fashion designer, is the CEO and founder of The Natori Company. She has also served as the White House Conference on Small Business commissioner. In March 2007, she received one of the Philippines' highest civilian honors, the Order of Lakandula. The House of Natori, established by Josie Natori in 1977, started with her making lingerie in her living room and has since grown into a comprehensive lifestyle brand. Josie says, "Natori is a total concept, a way of life." Over four decades, Natori has become one of the most recognizable names in the fashion industry and remains a proud family-owned business.

Natori designs, produces, sells, and distributes Sleepwear, Loungewear, Ready-to-Wear, and Accessories in-house. They are committed to designing products that are environmentally friendly and made using sustainable processes. Their mission is to make their customers look and feel their best from the inside-out, which means quality fabrics, that last.

The following is one of her newest designs that really intrigued me. So for the first one, we have the Cressida Applique Funnel Shift Dress which is a sleeveless, short dress with a high, asymmetrical neckline that appears to drape or fold over itself. The fabric features a bold black and white floral pattern, with large, intricate flowers spread across the dress. The dress has a fitted silhouette, accentuating the model's figure. The model is also wearing a black, wide bracelet with a cut-out design, adding a stylish accessory to the outfit. The overall look is elegant and modern, suitable for a variety of occasions.

The next one is the Mallorca Printed Cotton Silk Dress is a vibrant, colorful short dress featuring a bold, tropical floral print with shades of red, green, yellow, and purple. The dress has short sleeves and a button-down front with a mandarin collar. It includes a matching sash or belt tied at the waist, which enhances the dress's silhouette by cinching at the waist and creating a flared skirt. The overall look is bright and summery, perfect for warm weather and casual outings.

Up next we have the Imperial Dragon Jacquard Gown is an elegant, flowing garment with a silky, satin-like finish. It features a light, pastel blue base color adorned with intricate red and orange patterns, including stylized floral and wave motifs. The dress has a V-neckline and a loose, relaxed fit, giving it a comfortable and luxurious look. Accompanying the dress is a matching outer robe or kimono with wide sleeves, decorated in the same design. The ensemble exudes a sophisticated and exotic aesthetic, reminiscent of traditional East Asian attire while maintaining a modern and fashionable appeal.

The company infuses art into every creation, ensuring each piece is designed and crafted to be a personal treasure. Natori’s collections embody a modern harmony between East and West, featuring a sensual palette of color and texture. These glamorous pieces are intended to be woven into one's life, reflecting the inner world and empowering the outer world. Despite having their prices for their pieces costly they do donate every 1% of the purchase of a customer with no extra charge as well as allowing the customer to choose what organization they would like to donate it to. This is one of the main factors that I liked about this brand is that The Natori Company is committed to supporting organizations that empower women and combat racism and structural inequality worldwide. Some of the organizations that they support are The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF), YI Support the Girls (ISTG), Voice of the Free, Drama Club, Charity: Water, Women’s Prison Association (WPA), and Zonta International.

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Spotlight on Style: The Signature Aesthetics of Lesley Mobo

The last time Lesley Mobo created an evening wear collection was in 2019 for the 10th Red Charity Gala show. This collection was inspired by the heroines of film noir, a movie genre known for its stylish Hollywood crime dramas from the 1940s to the early 1950s. Mobo's designs were simple, subtle, and restrained, yet they possessed the glamor characteristic of Hollywood goddesses.

One particularly memorable piece from this collection was a dress adorned with dripping gold paillettes, which appeared even more stunning in motion, creating the illusion of liquid gold. Mobo recreated this piece for Atty. Emmeline Aglipay-Villar in November 2023 for the Project Inclusion Network event.

But his latest collection was released during December of 2023 which was called Paskong Ternocon, headlined by him and Joey Samson. During the pandemic, Lesley Mobo started his 'Tropical Ternos' theme, which frequently features ternos in vivid colors and striking florals. He carried this lively aesthetic into his Paskong Ternocon collection. Mobo emphasized that the collection's essence was more about capturing the vibes rather than the physical clothing.

The collection showcased surface textures, florals, polka dots, and printed fabrics that exuded a zest for life. Abundant use of tulle, georgette, and jacquard, along with layering, prints, and colors, characterized the designs. His textiles are made from materials that are bold, fun, and celebrate Filipino festivity.

Mobo mentioned that he traces the Spanish influence and the Acapulco trade to Manila through his use of styling, colors, and materials. He stated in a Vouge Philippines interview, "My inspiration comes from my love for the Philippines. It's fascinating that, although we are part of Asia, we exhibit more Latin characteristics in certain aspects, especially in our use of colors and often in our creative approach."

Lesley Mobo's fun and festive designs, primarily featuring floral prints, have captured the attention of netizens and celebrities alike. One notable admirer is Anne Curtis, who reached out to Mobo in London around the first week of January, requesting a custom-made terno dress. Mobo explained, “It is partly inspired by the recent collection, but it was made and draped in a different way for Anne. So you get a feel of the recent collection but actually it’s new.”

The dress features a body-hugging silhouette with a classic yet modern vibe. “It’s not too long like a traditional floor-length dress; it’s ankle-length, which makes it chic,” Mobo said. The fabric is a black-and-white polka-dot georgette with light medium robin egg blue tulle. The dress also includes a tie-draped waist detail and a slit on the right side. This creation is part of his Tropical Terno series, designed to be versatile enough for day and night wear. “They’re actually wearable pieces,” Mobo added.

Overall I think that his recent creations display his ability to evoke a sense of elegance and festivity as he features in his creations such as the vibrant colors, bold prints, and luxurious fabrics, blending traditional Filipino aesthetics with modern silhouettes. I find that in his designs, there will always be a Filipino aesthetic incorporated in each of his designs.

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Exploring the Exquisite Craftsmanship of Mich Dulce's Corsets

Ms. Mich Dulce is widely recognized as a milliner who creates and sells women's hats and as a corsetiere, a specialist in fitting and making corsets. However, she is also open to creating any customized garment upon request. Her designs skillfully blend traditional Filipino elements with contemporary Filipino fashion. This distinctive approach allowed her to update the baro’t saya, making it suitable for modern wear. In 2019, she dressed Anne Curtis in an original Dulce gown, featuring a modernized baro’t saya, complemented by a tiny hat matching the gown's color.

One of her collections that really captured my eye was her Assemblage 002 during March 18, 2022. This is a modular collection consisting of three clothing items: a terno bolero, an apron, and a belt. Photographed in pineapple fabric, each piece can be worn separately or layered to create various looks. The collection is complemented by three tropical-themed headpieces, which can be enhanced with different veils.

Assemblage features a curated selection of products, fostering continuous creativity, revisiting previous designs, optimizing resources, and promoting sustainable manufacturing.

Each item in an Assemblage has distinct purchasing options, ranging from small editions to made-to-order. The materials used are often limited, sourced from end-of-line fabrics, hand-woven textiles from partner communities, internationally procured notions, and more.

Assemblage's goal is to minimize waste and honor artisanal craftsmanship by ensuring comfortable production timelines, resulting in thoughtfully made, intentional pieces.

From what I've observed in her collections it always features a neutral-colored assemblage of dresses, tops, skirts, aprons, and trousers, all crafted from smooth fabrics and multiple layers of draping, tied together with her trademark millinery. Staying true to her passion for using sustainable materials and unique crafts, she also included latex clothing in the collection. This creates a beautiful comparison of textures and fabrics, all designed with her signature voluminous and feminine approach. Her style is very unique as it really embodies her roots in the Filipino culture reflected by using locally sourced handwoven Piña and Japanese twill. This is a factor as to why she is standing out in the fashion industry as her three core values are supporting the social and economic empowerment of underserved communities, the preservation of traditional craft and culture, and the creation of lasting, well-made products that use ethical and sustainable materials with minimal waste.

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Behold the Power of Designs By VAL TAGUBA

In the vibrant world of fashion, there are many Filipino designers but one of the most recent designers that I've noticed was Val Taguba as his creations stand out as a beacon of artistry and elegance. While he is known for his meticulous craftsmanship and breathtaking designs, Taguba has carved a niche for himself in the global fashion scene, making waves with his intricate detailing and luxurious fabrics. Today, we delve into the journey of Val Taguba and explore what makes his creations so captivating.

Signature Style: Elegance Meets Innovation

Recently, just as the Binibining Pilipinas 2024 has ended, the creations of many artists and designers should not be unnoticed. The creations of Val Taguba have once again takes the crowd by storm, after creating a beautiful piece for Ms. Stacey Gabriel and winning the title of the first runner-up in Binibining Pilipinas 2024. I find that this dress has a very form-fitting silhouette that accentuates the figure, crafted from a sheer fabric adorned with intricate beadwork and embroidery. This gown epitomizes Val Taguba's signature style of combining luxurious materials with meticulous detailing, resulting in a piece that is both sophisticated and captivating.

Redefining Bridal Couture

Val Taguba has redefined bridal couture in the Philippines and beyond. His bridal gowns are not just dresses but masterpieces that tell a story. Each gown is a labor of love, meticulously designed to highlight the individuality and grace of the bride. Taguba’s use of luxurious materials such as silk, chiffon, and organza, combined with his signature beadwork and embroidery, results in gowns that are both timeless and contemporary.

His approach to bridal design is personalized and intimate. Taguba takes the time to understand each bride’s vision, ensuring that every gown is a perfect reflection of her personality and style. This bespoke approach has earned him a loyal following, with brides from around the world seeking his expertise for their big day.

Celebrities and Red Carpet Glamour

Taguba’s talent has not gone unnoticed in the world of celebrities and red-carpet events. Actresses such as Ms. Francine Diaz during the ABS-CBN Ball 2023 wherein she wore an exquisite gown that showed some sweetness but also some skin and included a skillfully beaded ensemble that had a sweetheart neckline as well as expertly-placed cutouts.

His celebrity clientele is a testament to his versatility and ability to create stunning gowns that cater to diverse tastes and styles. Whether it’s a dramatic ball gown or a sleek, modern dress, Taguba’s creations are always a highlight on the red carpet, earning him accolades and cementing his status as a designer to watch.

As Val Taguba shares his creations with the world, this may inspire other Filipino artists to make creations. This is just the beginning for Filipino designers to show their talent and creativity in the Philippines and the global spectrum. His commitment to quality, his passion for creativity, and his love for his craft ensures that his place in the pantheon of great fashion designers is well-deserved. As we all celebrate his contributions to fashion, I look forward to seeing what new heights he will reach and what stunning creations he will unveil next.