OJ Hofer finds balance in the discordant

MANILA, Philippines - There’s a way to mix Vivaldi and Nirvana, two favorites of Cebu-based designer OJ Hofer, in a manner that’s not heavy-handed. But at his Fashion Watch showing, transitioning between tracks by both artists left viewers a little flummoxed. What is the point? What does it all mean? And why do my ears hurt?

Just like his theme “Rebel Ballerina,” a play on “girly but rebellious,” Hofer’s talents were best put to use when he kept to a single leitmotif. In fact, his most successful pieces were the ensembles that didn’t try too hard, like a slouchy T-shirt dress or more structured linen tops above a semi-loose draped skirt in gauze that just skimmed the floor. When Hofer stays true to his muse, who we imagine likes to drape herself in lightweight garb and ballet flats while flicking through her esoteric playlist on her iPhone while sipping mai tais by the beach, he manages to retain an airiness ideal for summer.

Unlike the strange play of tough vs. sweet, like the peculiar pairing of a saccharine pink dress with a sparkly black net thoughtlessly thrown over it, Hofer is best when he keeps it simple. A jacket over a casual skirt manages to be both bohemian and put-together while a dressier black number consisting of lace and stretch tulle was a crowd pleaser.

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Fashion Watch shows are presented every Thursday at the Makati Shangri-La lobby. The show on Oct. 20 will feature the collections of Ferdi Abuel and Norman Noriega. For reservations, call 840-0884.

Fashion Watch is presented by The Philippine STAR, Olay, Makati Shangri-la Hotel, Metro Pacific Investments, Preview, StyleBible, and StarWorld.