The search for new designers
Robbie Philip Pacificar and
Paulo Benito Tugbang
The fashion industry is a dynamic one. As it evolves, there is a need for more designers whose creations are in tune with the times.
Thus, Robinsons Place Iloilo is holding the Robinsons Design Lab, a project that gives budding designers a chance to shine.
Florad John Gonzales and
Pier Lynelle Baņas
The first elimination was held last April. The final elimination was held last May. After some comments and grilling from judges Bo Parcon, Jaki Peñalosa and Angelette Borja Ragus of the Designers Guild of Iloilo, three were chosen. They are Paulo Benito Tugbang, Alfred Jor-el Espina and Neny Dawn Jover. They will compete for the grand prize on the finals on July 4 at the said mall.
Each will present a six-piece collection.
The winner will receive P10,000, a trophy and a junior membership in the DGI.
Neny Dawn Jover, Alfred Jor-El Espina and
Mary Rose Adelie Pacificar
So, these young designers are now up to their necks in preparing their collections.
So, what designs are they cooking up? Will they be wild, funky, chic or simple? Find out on July 4 at the mall's fountain area.
About the Finalist
Paolo Benito Tugbang
West Visayas State University College of Nursing
His designs lean on four major concepts --- functionality, flexibility, style and comfort. He prefers trends in Victorian, Napoleonic Boheme and hippie. He goes for rustic, earthy and leafy colors. He loves the Alexander McQueen, Jean-Paul Gaultier, Ghost, Hermes and Victor & Rolf labels.
The judges are Bo Parcon, Angelette Borja Ragus
with Robinsons Mall Manager Ditas Taleon
and Jaki Peņalosa
Alfred Jor-El Espina
He is the in-house jewelry designer of Ichi Pichi. He makes gowns various occasions and specializes in avant garde designs. He loves the designs of John Galliano for Christian Dior, the cocktail couture and evening gowns of Catherine Malandrino and the flamboyant colors of Kate Toralba.
Neny Dawn Jover
She is a student of the Central Philippine University. She likes ancient wardrobes fused with the modern.