A Century of Style: The Francis Libiran Fashion Gala

Any local fashion fiend will have memories of The Manila Hotel, whether intimate presentations at The Champagne Room or lunchtime Fashion Watch shows at Maynila, the definitive fashion show series of the 90s. To celebrate its 100th year, the Grande Dame by the bay will open its iconic grand lobby to be the site of 100 The Francis Libiran Gala Show. Michael Carandang, formerly of America 's Next Top Model, and one of the creative forces behind the recent hit Bench Universe, aptly says, "As an immigrant, nothing beats the feeling when I finally got to see Manila Hotel for the first time! As Filipinos, we should all be proud of Manila Hotel." He then held up a precious token from the Manila Hotel archive, a ticket to a luncheon show by Gianni Versace, held in the venerable Champagne Room.

Dr. Emilio Yap, Jr promised a renaissance of style as Manila Hotel marks its first century.

To symbolize our rich Filipino heritage and how it can be equally contemporary and fashion forward, Francis has put together a collection that reinterprets Filipiniana for the modern Filipina. "I call one part of the show, The Callado Collection. I still use the traditional embroidery, if you look closely, it is really the old style of doing embroidery, but I mix it with sheer piña so it is sexy, ready for a young party girl." Michael helped Francis polish and edit the collection. "I'm happy that Francis valued my inputs and I can say that any girl, whether young or old, when they see the clothes, they will want to buy every piece!"

Francis made a name for himself dressing young actresses in red carpet shows toppers for event like the Star Magic Ball, or major shoots such as album or magazine covers. What better way to showcase a new breed of glamour and elegance than in a lobby that has seen its fair galaxy of stars?

"The Manila Hotel takes pride in nurturing the Filipino talent. It is a privilege to work with Francis Libiran whose talent has been recognized around the world," says Manila Hotel Executive Vice President Enrique Y. Yap, Jr.

Taking advantage of his background in architecture, Libiran will incorporate in his creations the structural design of the Hotel and its Filipino themed interiors. For his fashion gala, Libiran has created seven collections: his signature Lines and Layers; Pearl and Crystal that are inspired by the Filipino elements in the Hotel; the Callado, Gold, and Cut-Out that speak of elegance and timeless fashion. The Grand Lobby will be transformed into a runway to let the guests see and feel the beautiful marriage of fashion and architecture.

The Francis Libiran Fashion Gala presscon was held last September 21.

Beautiful gowns!

Man of the hour: Francis Libiran inside the Champagne Room of the Manila Hotel

Francis Libiran with me 

With Francis Libiran & Starstruck alumnus Dex Quindoza

Inside Showbiz Executive Director Rikka Dylim, Francis Libiran & me

My favorite stylist Luis Espiritu

The international market was introduced to Libiran when his creations were featured in America’s Next Top Model British Invasion and his gowns worn by Hollywood celebrity and supermodel Tyra Banks. Libiran’s designs are classic and exude elegance and luxury, the qualities that Manila Hotel is also known for.