Beyond borders

CEBU, Philippines — Seven new designers had their debut fashion presentations on Sunday, September 10. The occasion was titled “Beyond Borders, held at the Northwing Atrium of SM City Cebu. It was the commencement ceremony for this year’s graduates of the Fashion Institute of Design and Arts (FIDA) Cebu – a rite of passage of sorts that has become an annual tradition for FIDA.

The occasion gathering was mainlined by the graduation collections of Lisle Wadingan, Yoko Sato, Bianca Willemsen, Killy Tampus, Jonas Labastida, Ronie Adlawan and Percie Requiero.

Requiero bagged the “Best in Design” award with the collection titled “Checkmate,” which included a couple of pieces that bore interchangeable design components that could be fitted and re-fitted to suit a wearer’s needs.

The graduates of Maquillage and Fashion Merchandising courses were also recognized, just as the participants of a modeling workshop conducted by the Models Association of Cebu had the chance to experience what it’s like to sashay down the runway.

The “Deep Blue Sea” collection of FIDA mentors and instructors were also showcased during the event.

Undoubtedly, “Beyond Borders” succeeded in highlighting what can be expected from this year’s FIDA graduates – creative individuals who think outside the box while staying true to elements that’ve become mainstays in the haute couture scene.

 “Uptown/Downtown” by Lisle Wadingan

My graduation collection is a take of my own personal experience with New York City – a city so diverse, vibrant and dynamic which I interpreted by using mainly crisp woven cotton and wool. I played with basic silhouettes, oversized collars, voluminous sleeves and retro-themed undertones.

“Noodle” by Yoko Sato

I was on vacation in Tokyo and was having Ramen for dinner. I thought to myself “clothes inspired by noodles? Why not?” That’s when the whole concept of lines and weaving was conceived. Using Japanese silk, cotton and satin, I cut them into bias strips and wove them together to form various patterns and textures.

“Radiance” by Bianca Willemsen

Fairytales have existed since the dawn of literature, passed down from generations and have inspired countless creative individuals in history. The temptation of a dreamy fairytale life has always lingered in my thoughts. I have always unconsciously drawn inspiration from them. Which brings me to my simplistic approach in creating my collection. I went for classic silhouettes in basic colors but incorporated romantic details through dainty appliques and beading. I want the women who wear my clothes to feel like they’re princesses in their own fairytale love story.

 “Polychroma” by Killy Tampus

The pieces in “Polychroma” are dominated by lace and fine details because of my penchant for vintage romantic themes. The silhouettes are very feminine and form-flattering – a combination of the “old world charm” and hints of a contemporary finish.

 “Arcana” by Jonas Labastida

The play of light and shadow has always fascinated me. There is something about it that tugs at my heartstrings and appeals to my senses. My collection is a manifestation of glamorous arcane apparitions, interpreted in deep shades, dramatic accents and soft textures that result in timeless cuts and styles.

 “Heroine” by Ronie Adlawan

The type of woman I dress is a woman who has a strong personal identity. She is fearless, she is a boss and she is a brand of her own. She is a force who will never settle for less than what she deserves. These modern day heroines are the inspiration of my collection. Sharpness and structure are essentially the qualities that my clothes exude. I want women who wear my clothes feel empowered.

 “Checkmate” by Percie Requiero

My collection is a tribute to the great works of designers and fashion houses who have made fashion what it is today. “Checkmate” is a reflection of the contrast of opposing elements. Masculine and feminine, hard and soft, light and dark, very much the same with the game of Chess. The collection’s contrast between white and black symbolize the beautiful dualities that’s present in the world. These elements come together to create a balanced tension and nostalgic impression. (FREEMAN)