Alexa, play Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire's 1935 version of Cheek to Cheek. There's an innate glamour to draping yourself in feathers—images of megawatt Old Hollywood screen sirens floating down the red carpet fitted with long white gloves and scarlet-lipped smiles instantly come to mind.
Note, though, that we're talking faux! Fashion, having seen the 19th-century extinction of several bird species due to the muff's popularity, has definitely adapted since. In fact, England's Queen Alexandra made a statement on the matter by getting rid of all her feather-adorned hats way back in 1906.
That said, we're all for a fun synthetic take! Here, a quick-as-lightning roundup of 10 talented local designers who can create your frock of dreams, plus, for good measure, the feathered friends they call loyal celebrity clients.
1. Boom Sason
Flaunt those assets, little miss bombshell. Boom Sason's creations hide no secrets—the not-so-subtly sheer, corseted, figure-skimming frocks she's made for the sultry likes of Sarah Lahbati and KC del Rosario seduce barely above a whisper.
2. Patty Ang
What's so enamoring about Patty Ang's work is that she's always creating pieces that're somehow both ultra glam and total classics. Minimalism meets a bit of pastel kitsch, if you will!
3. Steph Tan
Steph Tan first caught our eye as we were covering a 2018 edition of Panasonic Manila Fashion Festival backstage. Her expertise lies in that decided sweet spot between demure and daring. Just ask Nadine Lustre.
4. Andrea Tetangco
These aren't your regular ol' grocery threads, says Heart Evangelista herself. This particular baby blue shift by Andrea Tetangco is equal parts comfort and statement.
5. Julianne Syjuco
A clear favorite of Kathryn Bernardo's, we love Julianne Syjuco's fresh take on flirty, retro silhouettes.
6. Daryl Maat
If fun is your middle name, look no further than Daryl Maat's vibrant, colorful, generous spray of rainbow sequins! He can do tasteful neutrals, too, though, as far as Glaiza de Castro is concerned.
7. Martin Bautista
Well-known for gorgeous, masterfully-draped silks in dazzling jewel tones is Martin Bautista, whose brand of luxe is singular. Channel 1930s glamour in one of his dresses (recall Keira Knightley in Atonement).
8. Debbie Co
Dainty to a fault, Debbie Co is a go-to for brides and debutante who prefer flaunting a touch of interesting texture. A scroll through her feed shows a real flair for tulle, bows, and pleats!
9. Maliche
Perhaps the country's most popular provider of gorgeous ready-to-wear wedding gowns (a growing trend amongst practical gals!), trust Maliche to deliver on the dazzle.
10. Inno Sotto
The legendary Inno Sotto remains the preferred master of Manila's top tier. With good reason! His illustrious career spans back to the swingin' '70s, and he's showing zero signs of slowing down, continously making magic for his ever-faithful clientele.
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