Brent Manalo Is a Modern-Day Gent at the Preview Ball 2026

The Preview Ball 2026 was a gathering of sartorialists with different styles, generations, and points of view. Invited to the event were names inducted into the Best Dressed list in past years, including 2025 honoree Brent Manalo. Styled by Ryuiji Shiomitsu, the actor donned a creative interpretation of the black suit, crafted by Best Filipino Fashion Designer 2024 awardee Joseph Bagasao.

"Deconstruction is really about taking apart the conventions of formalwear and putting them back together in a way that feels unexpected, rather than simply making something look unfinished," Ryuiji explains of the look he curated for Brent. For the evening, the heartthrob wore coordinates that carried signature BAGASÁO codes, such as contrast stitching, a relaxed silhouette, and cuts above the knees.

With a "more architectural perspective" on the deconstructed formalwear dress code, the stylist-muse duo aimed to introduce some novelty to the menswear staple. One way they reinterpreted it was through subtle yet impactful accessories sourced from Tiffany & Co. This lent the look a dashing, clean quality, with an intentional irregularity running through it. "Vision was modern Jose Rizal," Brent expressed on his Instagram account.

This tribute to our national hero was captured through the lens of Preview Creative 25 alumnus Belg Belgica, just a few hours before the Preview Ball carpet rolled out.

"Brent has always had a strong relationship with classic dressing, but he also has the confidence to push it when the occasion calls for it," Ryuji further explains, adding that this OOTD captures that discipline in Brent's style.

"This look sits nicely within that space. It retains the clean, sophisticated quality that suits him, while allowing him to experiment with something more directional," he shares.

The Preview Ball 2026 is co-presented by Birch Tree Adult Boost and Dove, in partnership with IQOS, GCash, and Belo Medical Group, with Event Sponsors Stanley, HONOR Magic V6, and Penshoppe, Giveaway Sponsor Colgate, and venue partner Marriott Manila Hotel at Newport World Resorts.

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