metrowear: the new generation

we were surprised when we got the e-mail and text invite for the samsung metrowear fashion show, featuring what they call "the next generation" (kasi hindi na pwedeng sabihing "young generation" for some of them, haha!). we weren't expecting anyone to be showing at this time of the year because, well, who thinks of clothes at this time of the year? most people have just made major payments for school (for their kids or for themselves), so there's no disposable income left. now is the time to save up in time for the holidays—THAT's when people start spending again. but it was a packed crowd at the rockwell tent last night and the anticipation was palpable. this time, instead of going through each designer's collection, we're going to pick-and-mix it up.

TREND: FLIPS & FLAPS & FOLDS
ivarluski aseron
LZ punzalan
patty eustaquio

but after seeing flip after flap after fold walk down the runway, they were all beginning to look alike... so it was quite refreshing to see a new name flashed onscreen: antonio garcia. no, not the mabolo florist, but this guy who used to be a model back in the 80s, left the country, became a fashion designer, and apparently sold his clothes in big-name stores like barneys new york and saks fifth avenue. no wonder the señoras were all there in full attendance and support—apples, annette, gem, marina, bea, even anna bayle! his collection was unabashedly feminine, full of bows, ruffles, embroidery in a brown and hot-pink palette. talk about showstopper!

DESIGNER TO WATCH: ANTONIO GARCIA here's a back shot of that dress:
TREND FOR EVENINGWEAR: GRAY GOWNS (in all shades, from silver to charcoal)
ivarluski aseron
patty eustaquio
protacio
joey samson

TREND: SHORT & SWEET (still)
joey samson
protacio
ivarluski aseron

MOST APPLAUDED COLLECTION: CARY SANTIAGO (you can't see it in our bad photos, but the detailing in his gowns is exquisite)
CONTRAST: SLIM vs POUFY
slim: joey samson
poufy: james reyes