MANILAFAME 2012

The second exhibit of Manila FAME ran from October 17 to 20 of 2012. Featured in the design and lifestyle event are a home grown breed of Filipino professionals in all of fashion and interior design. I went there through an invitation of a friend and it is undeniable to see the exemplary craftsmanship that are characteristic of Filipino ingenuity.

The three-day affair featured 10 design houses, The Garden Pavilion, and the Crafts and Style Spots. Big names from the interior design front participated in the event from the renowned Vito Selma, Ito Kish and the Betis Craftd, Inc.

All famous: The Manila Fame Team!

Love these!

One of my favorite exhibits: Kenneth Cobonpue

Very innovative lights!

Love this bed.

The fashion section featured Manila Wear Summer Must-haves—a refreshing perspective on the world of fashion. Rajo Laurel, JC Buendia, Ken Samudio and Joel Escober were among the participating designers in the exhibit. How I wish I got to take home one of their priced pieces.

Red Cross Ball 2012

The Red Charity Gala has long been one of the most anticipated events of the year. After receiving raves from its initial showings—from Furne One to Michael Cinco—the annual fund-raising event has gathered support from individuals and corporations who are socially conscious and willing to participate in the event’s cause more than the glitz and glamour of the event. Philanthropic beauties Tessa Prieto-Valdez and Kaye Tinga once again spearheaded the success of the event.

Stunning people dressed to the nines, flowing wine and sophisticated three-course meals definitely marked the night as the metro’s pack of A-listers have witnessed the exemplary display of Filipino talent at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel. It was Cebu-based designer Cary Santiago’s turn to wow the crowd of fashion onlookers.

Cary was once based in the Middle East just like previous designers showcased in the gala, before proceeding to get further training in Beirut and Dubai before transferring to Paris. The show featured detailed cocktail dresses and long gowns in a colorful palette of yellow, orange, royal blue and fuschia. Amidst the glorious display of gorgeous couture dresses and designer creations, the show really is about extending a helping hand to our brothers and sisters in need.

Me in my Joey Samson.

Cebu Designer Cary Santiago receives his bouquet.

Anton Barretto & Mons Romulo-Tantoco

David Chua & Miko Raval

Dashing!

Liza Ilarde-Cuenca & husband Elbert Cuenca

Juan Sarte & Miguel Pastor

Cong. Lucy Torres-Gomez

Mayenne Carmona & Linda Ley

Raymond Gutierrez & Carla Humphries

David Chua & Cindy Miranda

Elegant setup!

Congrats Kaye and Tessa!

Ipanema turns Davaoeños to Fashion Animals

Over the weekend, I flew with a couple of friends to Davao to see the unveiling of Brazilian flipflop brand, Ipanema at the Abreeza Mall. A number of digital and print media joined the majestic display of elaborate costumes and fierce dance movements. With this splendid production, Ipanema introduces their brave, playful line of footwear designs that are fun and bold in color and patterns. Mystical creatures commanded the stage with Patxi Elizalde ushering in the new collection to be sold in the Bambu store located at the mall. If there’s one thing that Ipanema has mastered, it must be the art of staging a powerful production with unique narrative that made the audience so tuned in. No wonder, from its successful launch last year at the Bonifacio Global City, Ipanema took it to their hands to replicate the astonishing performance for Davaoenos to see.

Welcome to Davao, Ipanema! Posing outside the Bambu store where the new footwear collection is going to be sold.

The stage where the magic unfolded--bongga!

Me & Ayala Land Commercial Business Group Assistant-Vice President Javier Hernandez

Sofia Elizalde and husband Managing Director of ELRO Corp. Patxi Elizalde

Momentum’s Vim Sto. Domingo and Marketing Manager of ELRO Corp. Cecille Loretizo

Candice Protasio & Anna Magnaye

Rochelle and daughter Arianna del Rosario

Me & Century Rural Bank President Rodney del Rosario

Winners all! Raffle winners were called onstage prior to the show.

Mystical creatures on the move.

Big boss with the mystical beings.

Doors to the urban fashion jungle gets unlocked.