Celebrating 25 years in the fashion industry, Rajo Laurel made a powerful case on Philippine contemporary style. Drawing inspiration from the country’s rich history and culture, he was able to perfectly incorporate textiles and motifs from across the archipelago.
Often associated with impeccable style and fine craftsmanship, his runway show at the 10th anniversary of the Red Charity Gala did not disappoint. In fact, it was overwhelming with such breathtaking pieces—from the moment he opened his show with three origami pleated ensembles to ending it dramatically with a black feathered creation.
The first batch of looks to dominate Rajo’s show was a set of champagne colored dresses accentuated with sparkly detailing. And to stay true in channeling the beauty of the Pearl of the Orient, he highlighted piña fabrics and pearl embellishments that complemented his structured pieces and floaty dresses.
Following the elegant nude palette, a splash of vibrant hues of green, blue, yellow, and pink instantly painted the runway. Aside from offering a variety of colors, he also put emphasis on ruffles, pleats, fringes, and tassels to punctuate the looks.
Since Rajo’s 25th year is far from being ordinary, he also featured his menswear collection. Evidently manifesting throughout his men’s line were asymmetrical tailored suits and boxy jackets in heritage masculine tones.
An ethereal set of white pieces in satin, lace, and banig patterns then took over the runway commanding the men to fall in line. But as the emotions of the audience were already set with immaculate white creations, Rajo was able to remarkably transition to an opposite palette. Complementing his looks as he channeled the dark side were floral beadwork, cultural graphic prints, and black feathers.
Proving that innovation is the key element to thrive in the industry, Rajo took his design-game up a notch and showcased his take on the global trend of plastics, metallics, and geometrical printed numbers.
With 25 years of experience in the industry, and continually producing sensational pieces year after year, we may as well assume that Rajo has truly mastered the art of balancing modernity and old world glamor while championing the authentic beauty of our motherland.
Scroll down below to view his entire collection
