When we talk about graduation rites, first thing that comes to mind would either be a toga, a graduation hymn, or a lengthy program. However, for the graduates of the Institute of Creative Entrepreneurship, Fashion, Arts, and Design (ICEFAD), the end of their program means slaying the runway!
Eleven students from Batch 2019 recently flaunted their stylish creations at the Grand Atrium of Shangri-La Plaza, which was witnessed not just by their family and friends, but mall-goers as well. The Graduation Show, entitled CREATE: Redefining the Business of Fashion, takes pride in showcasing the effectivity of “concept-to-production” courses from their innovative technical and vocational school.
There are five categories – Sustainable-Retail, Menswear, Textile Design & Manipulation, Sculptural Art, and Red Carpet. A winner for each category has been chosen by Filipino designers who have already established their names in the fashion industry.
Joe Figueroa, Kate Yalung, Isabel Laohoo, Camilla Damo, Blessed Almario, Diane Salamanque, Marionne Liwag, Austeen Soriano, Norman Abing, Clarice Melegrito, and Lare Daine all brought their A game to the runway. Here’s a peek at some of their exquisite creations that you might want to wear for your next special event:
Blessed Almario
Alexandre Franco
Diane Salamanque
Camilla Damo
Joe Figueroa
Sainte Marian
Isabel Laohoo
Leilani Kate Yalung
Lare Dane
Clarice Melegrito
Maison Soriano
Out of the eleven, Blessed Almario has taken the spotlight that evening, taking majority of the awards from the esteemed panel of judges. Her designs, which all used white fabrics, were a standout! However, each designer has their own strength. For youthful streetwear or casual wear, I would look for Clarice Melegrito’s creations in a heartbeat. If I want to make a statement in usual black and gold colors that I personally love, Alexandre Franco would be my first option. Neutrals? Diane Salamanque, definitely. My runway favorite? Leilani Kate Yalung’s final Red Carpet creation. It’s hard to choose as these are all fresh takes from young up-and-coming Filipino designers!
ICEFAD, founded by Monina Tan-Santiago, continues to accept applicants for their 8-month program. If you’re an aspiring fashion designer who wants to develop his/her own brand, you can check out their website at www.icefad.com for more details. Their fashion school is located at the Lower Ground Floor, East Wing of Shangri-La Plaza in Mandaluyong City.
Special thanks to one of their mentors, Levenson Rodriguez, for inviting Manila Millennial to the show! For more details about our fashion finds, don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
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