Golden Muses

This was printed last Friday in Manila Bulletin. For those who wasn't able to get a copy :)


A gilded collaboration between fashion and beauty


Philippine Fashion Week Spring-Summer 2011 kicked off the series with a show by four of the country’s well-loved designers, as handpicked by renowned beauty brand, Pond’s. Along with these creative artists, they also showcased “12 of the most beautiful and radiant women that best represents the Pond’s Gold Radiance line.” “We really selected the best of the best and so (PFW organizer) Joey Espino gladly allowed us to open PFW,” shares senior brand manager Jacqueline Yuengtian.


Starting the show was Dennis Lustico, with model Ria Bolivar in a pale gold fitted tube dress with orange-rust fringe detail. Other designs, such as Marina Benipayo’s, had a strip of gold glitter for that added dash of sparkle.

Rissa Mananquil’s wraparound sleeveless top and full skirt was no surprise to us. Designer JC Buendia, who is quite known for his well-tailored styles, has managed to put a refreshing twist to his staple designs with orchids (in the same muted gold tone as his chosen fabric) as his accessory du jour.

Model and host Joey Mead sashayed in a flowing gold lame dress that perfectly complements her sexy morena skin. Although most Pinays are still quite conservative when it comes to lame fabrics, Jun Escario’s collection proves that anyone can wear a lame dress. His creations are simple and sexy, with intricate beadwork that blends with the dresses.

The Middle East served as Rajo Laurel’s inspiration, with intricate embellishments that work well with his choice of white and beige combination. Mikaela Lagdameo Martinez’s beaded bolero was everyone’s favorite, as well as Divine Lee’s long gown, which played with the curves of the body by strategically placing the sheer fabrics along the lower abdomen.

For the finale, Pond’s Gold Radiance’s endorser was formally introduced with Tweetie de Leon-Gonzales walking out in a fully beaded, patterned, fitted, long- sleeved gown by Laurel as well.

The show was all about appreciation among the brand, the designer, and the models, with each giving credit to the other via the projector that served as part of the backdrop. It is this powerful mix of beauty and style that brings out the radiance in a woman, as demonstrated with the support of this elite group of designers and Pond’s.