Posts Tagged ‘culture’

Josie Natori & FDCP!

Thursday, April 23rd, 2009

Josie Natori was in town recently, and she hosted a merienda for the FDCP (Fashion and Design Council of the Philippines).  Josie  was instrumental in the creation of the FDCP.  Her moving force and energy has been the guiding light  of the council.  It was a really lovely afternoon filled with laughter and cheer.  She organized the get-together to touch base with the members and find out intimately the state of the fashion industry in our country.  She listened to all our challenges and applauded all our triumphs.  I am very proud to be part of the council and happy that  amidst all our set backs were still here surviving.  In the end, regardless of where you are in the world of fashion, surviving is an achievement.  The stories are even more dim in NYC. However, the ever-inspiring Josie rallied us all and lifted our spirits that lovely afternoon.  I just want to say MARAMING SALAMAT JOSIE!

 The New York based Fashion designer Josie Natori has remained a true inspiration to all of us Filipino designers.  She is always so chic!  I noticed her lovely tanned color!  Summer perfection!

The New York-based fashion designer Josie Natori has remained a true inspiration to all of us Filipino designers. She is always so chic! I noticed her lovely tanned color! Summer perfection!

 The merienda was set at her brothers beautiful plantation like home!  The afternoon set up was really pretty!  I loved the all white table scape amidst the lush garden.

The merienda was set at her brother's beautiful plantation-like home! The afternoon setup was really pretty! I loved the all-white tablescape amidst the lush garden.

 This was one of the lanai living area fronting the garden.  I love the Isabel Diaz mural backing the sofa!

This was one of the lanai living areas fronting the garden. I love the Isabel Diaz mural backing the sofa!

Natori's lead designer in the Philippines Ian Giron making sure everything is perfect.

Natori's lead designer in the Philippines Ian Giron making sure everything is perfect.

 FDCP desingners Joey Samson and Tipi Ocampo gracing the merienda.

FDCP designers Joey Samson and Tippi Ocampo gracing the merienda.

 Josie and Ian having a chat while waiting for other members to arrive.

Josie and Ian having a chat while waiting for other members to arrive.

 Josie with some of the FDCP board.  Tonichi Nocom, Dong Omaga Diaz is the President of FDCP and Avel Bacudio.

Josie with some members of the FDCP board: Tonichi Nocom, Dong Omaga Diaz is the President of FDCP and Avel Bacudio.

 Ian with Vittorio Barba.

Ian with Vittorio Barba.

 The yummy spread from the famous kitchen of Ching Cruz.  Mrs. Cruz was in New York that afternoon but her amazing staff created such perfect service that I was caught taking mental notes for my own merienda parties in the future.

The yummy spread from the famous kitchen of Ching Cruz. Mrs. Cruz was in New York that afternoon, but her amazing staff created such perfect service that I was caught taking mental notes for my own merienda parties in the future.

 The svelte FDCP member  Len Nepumoceno-Guiao.

The svelte FDCP member Len Nepumoceno-Guiao.

 I took a shot at Joey Samsons beautiful Jil Sander shoes!  I really admire his taste!

I took a shot at Joey Samson's beautiful Jil Sander shoes! I really admire his taste!

 Josie gave us a lovely pep talk during the merienda!

Josie gave us a lovely pep talk during the merienda!

 Hear she is giving us advice on how we can overcome our challenges.

Hear she is, giving us advice on how we can overcome our challenges.

 At the end of the merienda the council surprised Josie with a bounty of gifts worthy of a queen.  Here she is showing a beautiful south sea pearl brooch by FDCP member Jerry Sunga.

At the end of the merienda, the council surprised Josie with a bounty of gifts worthy of a queen. Here she is showing a beautiful South Sea pearl brooch by FDCP member Jerry Sunga.

 Jerry complimented his brooch with a lovely south sea pearl ring!

Jerry complimented his brooch with a lovely South Sea pearl ring!

 Another FDCP member Amina Aranaz also gifted Josie with a summer tote bag!

Another FDCP member, Amina Aranaz-Alunan, also gifted Josie with a summer tote bag!

 Tippi Ocampo also gave Josie her book and this really brightened up Josie's face as she leafed through the pages.

Tippi Ocampo also gave Josie her book, and this really brightened up Josie's face as she leafed through the pages.

 A parting shot of the Merienda!  We may not have been complete that day but the spirit of FDCP was really felt.

A parting shot of the merienda! We may not have been complete that day, but the spirit of FDCP was really felt.

HUGS!
RAJO!

FAME: Part 3!

Tuesday, April 21st, 2009

The most exciting thing for me about FAME is the Home Furnishing section!  In my humble opinion, we are one of the best home furnishing designers in the world!  I really get so inspired when I am able to walk around FAME and just soak all the beautiful designs around me.  I am the type of judge  that would rather give everyone an award! LOL!  I took a gazillion photos but I really think that all of these images will inspire you and make you swell with pride inside!

This lamp is from EVOLVE designs.  I was really digging their recycled theme and I really think that evolves designer is really a genius!

This lamp is from EVOLVE designs. I was really digging their recycled theme and I really think that Evolve's designer is really a genius!

 I love this chair!  It is made form layers of cheese cloth!  I sat on this chair and it was so comfortable, this is also from evolve designs and their designer Is MILO NAVA!  I think he is truly brilliant!  If you want this chair shoot an email to evolvephilippines@gmail.com

I love this chair! It is made from layers of cheese cloth! I sat on this chair and it was so comfortable. It's also from Evolve Designs by MILO NAVA! I think he is truly brilliant! If you want this chair, shoot an email to evolvephilippines@gmail.com

Evolve also did this bottle cap lamp base!  I LOVE IT!  It could be a do it yourself product.  Now if only I can find the time to do crafty things like this.

Evolve also did this bottle cap lamp base! I LOVE IT! It could be a do-it-yourself product. Now if only I can find the time to do crafty things like this.

 These pillows were designed by Maricris Brias!  She is  TADECO!  I love the pattern and the texture of these pillows!

These pillows were designed by Maricris Brias! She is TADECO! I love the pattern and the texture of these pillows!

Tadeco also translated the pillows into area carpets.  I imagine this as a really cool print for fabric.  Ideas....ideas!  You can see more of Maricris's work at www.tadeco-homedecor.com

Tadeco also translated the pillows into area carpets. I imagine this as a really cool print for fabric. Ideas....ideas! You can see more of Maricris's work at www.tadeco-homedecor.com

These fabulous sculptures/outdoor furniture is from the very talented Ann Pamintuan!  I love her stuff!  These are from her lotus series and I promise myself that if and when I have my own garden I will definitely have an Ann Pamintuan in it! PROMISE!

These fabulous sculptures/outdoor furniture pieces are from the very talented Ann Pamintuan! I love her stuff! These are from her Lotus series and I promise myself that if and when I have my own garden, I will definitely have an Ann Pamintuan in it! PROMISE!

 Ann Pamintuan also showed some modern verve by using some plastic tubing for some of her pieces!  I loved how this where like space creatures!  LOL!

Ann Pamintuan also showed some modern verve by using some plastic tubing for some of her pieces! I loved how these pieces were like space creatures! LOL!

 I loved this booth!  They create products made  from fine bone china!  The company is called CSM international!  I really found their items so delicate and romantic.  If you like to see more of them you can email them at csmicorp@smartbro.net

I loved this booth! They create products made from fine bone china! The company is called CSM International! I really found their items so delicate and romantic. If you'd like to see more of them, you can email them at csmicorp@smartbro.net

 The lady on the left is Tess Pasola!  I call her the PAPER PRINCESS!  She does the most amazing things with paper!  I mean can you imagine that all of those tables, vases, vessels and what not are all made from paper?  Well...They are!  She has won several design awards internationally for her amazing designs!  I AM A FAN!

The lady on the left is Tess Pasola. I call her the PAPER PRINCESS! She does the most amazing things with paper! I mean, can you imagine that all of those tables, vases, vessels and what not are all made from paper? Well...they are! She has won several design awards internationally for her amazing designs! I AM A FAN!

 In the center of home decor fair, Eric Paras created these amazing tableaus that showcased several products.  I love the how it was like a symphony of shapes and textures all so very pleasing to the eye and to the touch!  One word STUNNING!

In the center of home decor fair, Eric Paras created these amazing tableaus that showcased several products. I love how it was like a symphony of shapes and textures - all so very pleasing to the eye and to the touch! One word: STUNNING!

 Another Eric Paras tableau!  I want that lamp on the extreme right hand of the photo!  WAIT!  I want everything in this photo!  WAAAH!

Another Eric Paras tableau! I want that lamp on the extreme right hand of the photo! WAIT! I want everything in this photo! WAAAH!

 I was so scared to sit on this chair but I was assured by the designer that it was really safe!  It was beautiful.  I thought that it reminded me of a game I used to play as a child. The wood peg game called JANGO?

I was so scared to sit on this chair, but I was assured by the designer that it was really safe! It was beautiful. I thought that it reminded me of a game I used to play as a child: the wood peg game called JENGA?

 They had several artists creating murals in the fair as I was walking around. I was not sure where they would go but I love street art and I find watching artists paint mesmerizing.

They had several artists creating murals in the fair as I was walking around. I was not sure where they would go, but I love street art and I find watching artists paint mesmerizing.

 This was the Kalikasan Crafts booth!  I found there work so seamless!  I mean I know that they were made from Iron and all that but I could not figure out how they were attached together as the joints were so clean!  This made their products so outstanding!

This was the Kalikasan Crafts booth! I found their work so seamless! I mean, I know that they were made from iron and all, that but I could not figure out how they were attached together, as the joints were so clean! This made their products so outstanding!

 Love this lamp!  One of the judges asked how the pieces of metal were attached and they said it was top secret!  I would keep it a secret too because these items were fantastic!

Love this lamp! One of the judges asked how the pieces of metal were attached, and they said it was top secret! I would keep it a secret too because these items were fantastic!

 These lamps were also so beautiful.  They were also created by Kalikasan crafts you can see more of their work at www.kalikasancrafts.com

These lamps were also so beautiful. They were also created by Kalikasan Crafts. You can see more of their work at www.kalikasancrafts.com

 This amazing set of lamps won the KATHA awards last year!  They were designed and created by BON ACE!

This amazing set of lamps won the KATHA awards last year! They were designed and created by BON ACE!

These are also bon ace's products!  I loved their booth as they had a fringed veil around the booth that gave a sense of mystery and transparency to the whole area.

These are also Bon Ace's products! I loved their booth as they had a fringed veil around it that gave a sense of mystery and transparency to the whole area.

 These mirrors/wall sculptures are from MCCA industrial corporation.  I love how it was arranged, I also admire the delicate workmanship.

These mirrors/wall sculptures are from MCCA Industrial Corporation. I love how it was arranged, and I also admire the delicate workmanship.

 This KATHA 2009 award for best boot goes to MCCA!  I though it was really an intelligent use of space and it really highlighted the products.

This KATHA 2009 Award for Best Boot goes to MCCA! I though it was really an intelligent use of space and it really highlighted the products.

 Another view of the winning booth, it was so logical and so easy to appreciate their products.  You can get in touch with MCCA through mcca@comclark.com

Another view of the winning booth. It was so logical and so easy to appreciate their products. You can get in touch with MCCA through mcca@comclark.com

 A close up of the lamp I want!  Its so nice!

A close up of the lamp I want! It's so nice!

Another beautiful tableau by Eric Paras.

Another beautiful tableau by Eric Paras.

This is the booth of evolve!  I love the serenity of the place!  I can live in that booth!  LOL!

This is the booth of Evolve! I love the serenity of the place! I can live in that booth! LOL!

 This is made from paper! I found the texture so interesting.  I wonder if it will translate into fabric?  HMMM?

This is made from paper! I found the texture so interesting. I wonder if it will translate into fabric? HMMM?

 masaeco is the company that does this amazing things with paper.

Masaeco is the company that does these amazing things with paper.

 more of the products of Masaeco.

More of the products of Masaeco.

 This was the booth of the Locsin group.  They always show strong pieces and this year was no exception.

This was the booth of the Locsin group. They always show strong pieces and this year was no exception.

 This picture frame/chair is the winner for the 2009 KATHA award for best product design for best home decor.  We had a tough time choosing a winner with all of the judges having their own personal favorites. Although we all decided to give it to this piece because it was really whimsical and original.  I tried sitting on the chair and it was cozy!  Congratulations to MAZE!

This picture frame/chair is the winner for the 2009 KATHA Award for Best Product Design for Best Home Decor. We had a tough time choosing a winner with all of the judges having their own personal favorites. Although we all decided to give it to this piece because it was really whimsical and original. I tried sitting on the chair and it was cozy! Congratulations to MAZE!

 I personally loved this piece.  It is made from BULALO bones!  Bulalo is the shank of the cow!  Apparently the company that designed this would collect the bones from waiters of various restaurants around the metropolis then they would clean them up, treat them and then create outstanding products such as this!  This design really moved me as it inspired me somehow. I know that it was really difficult to do and its quite expensive.  I am making a mental note to buy this for my new house!  In the mean time save muna ako!

I personally loved this piece. It is made from BULALO bones! Bulalo is the shank of the cow! Apparently the company that designed this would collect the bones from waiters of various restaurants around the metropolis then they would clean them up, treat them and then create outstanding products such as this! This design really moved me as it inspired me somehow. I know that it was really difficult to do and it's quite expensive. I am making a mental note to buy this for my new house! In the meantime, save muna ako!

ENJOY!
RAJO!

FAME: Part 2!

Monday, April 20th, 2009

I find it strange to feel Christmas in the middle of SUMMER!  My goodness, it’s so hot outside now!  However, I did have a really great surreal moment to be surrounded by all things holiday at FAME!  This is the second part of my FAME series where we had to choose the best product design in the Holiday Decor category.

I loved this part of the show because it makes me feel like a child again.  I mean, Christmas is really for children, so I went back to the time when I was 6 or 7 as we were choosing the winner.  There were quite a number of fantastic ideas, and I am so glad that they allowed me to take photos so that I can remember them come Christmas time!

 I loved the booth and products of TOPA of Manila inc.!  They had a fantastic theme and they ran a way with it!  The collection of these paper mache' based items were SOOOOO cute!  This is their SNOWMAN series.

I loved the booth and products of TOPA of Manila Inc! They had a fantastic theme and they ran away with it! The collection of these paper-mâché based items were SOOOOO cute! This is their SNOWMAN series.

 I adored TOPA'S Santas!  They reminded me of peppermint candies!  I love that SANTA came in all shapes and sizes.  Thin, fat, tall, short Santa's were all over.  You can email TOPA at topaworks@mail.com

I adored TOPAS' Santas! They reminded me of peppermint candies! I love that SANTA came in all shapes and sizes. Thin, fat, tall, short Santas were all over. You can email TOPA at topaworks@mail.com

 I adored these bunny rabbits!  I really loved the old fashion appeal of these stuffed toys.  I wanted to buy them for my nieces!  They are made by BenJoy inc you can contact them trough their email benjoy@mozcom.com

I adored these bunny rabbits! I really loved the old fashion appeal of these stuffed toys. I wanted to buy them for my nieces! They are made by BenJoy Inc. You can contact them through their email add: benjoy@mozcom.com

 These items were also so strange!  They reminded me of creatures from my old fairy tale books!  They had these scary but cool attitude about them.

These items were also so strange! They reminded me of creatures from my old fairy tale books! They had this scary but cool attitude about them.

 These lambs were also made from paper. The wool on them are actually coiled newspaper!  How cool is that?

These lambs were also made from paper. The wool on them is actually coiled newspaper! How cool is that?

 I was really impressed with this company!  These fairies are from the Accent pieces.  I found the fairy series  really wonderful!

I was really impressed with this company! These fairies are from the Accent pieces. I found the fairy series really wonderful!

 These wreaths won the KATHA 2009 award for  best product design  in the holiday decor category.  They are made from recycled paper and paint. Congratulations to ACCENT pieces!  You can get in touch with them through accentpieces@i-manila.com.ph

These wreaths won the KATHA 2009 award for Best Product design in the Holiday Decor category. They are made from recycled paper and paint. Congratulations to ACCENT Pieces! You can get in touch with them through accentpieces@i-manila.com.ph

 I loved this reindeer suite!  They are made from found drift wood pieces.  I liked the natural ease of the design and its ecological appeal.

I loved this reindeer suite! They are made from driftwood pieces. I liked the natural ease of the design and its ecological appeal.

HUGS!
RAJO!

FAME: Part 1!

Friday, April 17th, 2009

This is part one of my Manila FAME series. I decided to break it down into parts because I wanted to make my entries more cohesive.  There were so many fantastic items of display that if I were a woman, I would probably have had a nervous breakdown!  LOL!

To be honest , there were really only a few standout designs that really excited me, but these few were really exceptional!  Take a look and  be mesmerized!

 From the minute that I saw this piece I  was like WHOA!  Thats FABULOUS!  However I thought my GOD that must be heavy!  But as I picked it up I was really surprised at how light it was!  The details are just GORGEOUS!  I loved this piece in fact this was one of the nominees for the best fashion accessories award.

From the minute that I saw this piece, I was like, WHOA! That's FABULOUS! However, I thought, "My GOD, that must be heavy!" But as I picked it up, I was really surprised at how light it was! The details are just GORGEOUS! I loved this piece. In fact, this was one of the nominees for the best fashion accessories award. It was designed by Rene R. Simbajon of Austolia Jewelry arts. They are a Cebu based company, so you can get in touch with them through info@austolia.com

I love chunky cuffs!  I fell in love with these cuffs immediately!  I wonder if they would allow me to use them for my fashion shows?  HMMM....

I love chunky cuffs! I fell in love with these cuffs immediately! I wonder if they would allow me to use them for my fashion shows? HMMM....

 A selection of Austolia's outstanding designs!

A selection of Austolia's outstanding designs!

Austolia also had some cocktail rings on display.

Austolia also had some cocktail rings on display.

 I found the color of this sea snake clutch really beautiful!

I found the color of this sea snake clutch really beautiful!

 This neck piece is made from black nylon garter and crystals!  I originally thought that it was the straps of this gown but it was actually a neck piece.  I liked it!  I like how the industrial and the refined complemented each other. I found this at the Sebina booth.  They were showcasing  materials made from pine apple and bamboo!

This neck piece is made from black nylon garter and crystals! I originally thought that it was the straps of this gown, but it was actually a neck piece. I liked it! I like how the industrial and the refined complemented each other. I found this at the Sebina booth. They were showcasing materials made from pine apple and bamboo!

 I found the products of ISH fashion Accessories really promising!  I adored how the designer used computer chips or mother boards for her pieces. I automatically nominated them for the Eco-luxury category.  ISH is also a cubu based company with Ms. Mary Karen Woolbright as the chief designer.

I found the products of ISH fashion Accessories really promising! I adored how the designer used computer chips or mother boards for her pieces. I automatically nominated them for the Eco-Luxury category. ISH is also a Cebu-based company, with Ms. Mary Karen Woolbright as the chief designer.

This piece was too cute for words!  they were made from instant noodle wrappers!  LOL!  You can get in touch with ISH through karen@ishboutique.com

This piece was too cute for words! They were made from instant noodle wrappers! LOL! You can get in touch with ISH through karen@ishboutique.com

 I liked this bag!  Its a reworked basket with an attached canvas body/handle.  Its from Baguio and although simple I thought it had a really strong commercial appeal.  Its made by the Mayat-an handicrafts company.

I liked this bag! It's a reworked basket with an attached canvas body/handle. It's from Baguio, and although it's simple, I thought it had a really strong commercial appeal. It's made by the Mayat-an handicrafts company.

Citem asked a friend of mine to assist some of the companies as a consultant.  Fashion designer Robie Lolin created this neckpiece.  I liked the play on the blue colors with the wood base.  Very chic with a gentle nod to Marni.

Citem asked a friend of mine to assist some of the companies as a consultant. Fashion designer Robie Lolin created this neckpiece. I liked the play on the blue colors with the wood base. Very chic, with a gentle nod to Marni.

 I was so happy to bump into the great doyene of the jewelry world...non other than Jul Dizon!  This woman is really a design force!  Her jewelry designs are the best in the country!  I was so happy that she was there!  Her rutilated quartz necklace was to die for!

I was so happy to bump into the great doyene of the jewelry world...none other than Jul Dizon! This woman is really a design force! Her jewelry designs are the best in the country! I was so happy that she was there! Her rutilated quartz necklace was to die for!

 This was the most compelling fashion accessory in the show!  They  are eyeglass frames were just to die for!   I love how funky they were!  I thought that they were so special!  I am glad that this piece won the KATHA 2009 best product design for Fashion Accessories!  This was designed by Rene R. Simbajon or Austolia Jewelry Arts!  Congratulations!

This was the most compelling fashion accessory in the show! The eyeglass frames were just to die for! I love how funky they were! I thought that they were so special! I am glad that this piece won the KATHA 2009 best product design for Fashion Accessories! This was designed by Rene R. Simbajon or Austolia Jewelry Arts! Congratulations!

 This is the very talented Rene R.Simbajon.  I love how he really surprised me with his fun and quirky designs!  I am glad that he won!

This is the very talented Rene R.Simbajon. I love how he really surprised me with his fun and quirky designs! I am glad that he won!

HUGS!
RAJO!

Manila FAME!

Friday, April 17th, 2009

Every year I look forward to FAME!  FAME is short for Furnishing, Apparel, Manufacturers, Exchange.  It’s a trade show featuring the best designers from our Islands!  It’s a massive showcase of how talented Filipinos are.  It is the second year that the FAME is being held at the SMX convention center.  I was really impressed by the space of the convention center!  This year was extra special for me as they asked me to be a judge for the very prestigious KATHA awards.  It’s an award given by CITEM (Center for International Trade and Exposition Mission), the organizing body of FAME.

FAME is now on its 49th year of existence!  IMAGINE THAT?!
FAME is now on its 49th year of existence! IMAGINE THAT?!
 SMX convention centrer!  They had dancers on opening day.
SMX convention centrer! They had dancers on opening day.
 I found the convention center really cool!  I mean this is place was so big!  I think the space is really efficient and the aircon was so strong!  LOL!  Thank goodness because it was quite warm that day!
I found the convention center really cool! I mean this is place was so big! I think the space is really efficient and the aircon was so strong! LOL! Thank goodness because it was quite warm that day!
 I present you the Panel of Judges for the Katha awards!  Rajo, Kat, Ed, Tatum and Ogie!!!  Are we not a good looking bunch!  LOL!
I present you the Panel of Judges for the Katha awards: Rajo, Kat, Ed, Tatum and Ogie!!! Are we not a good-looking bunch? LOL!

Being a judge is not easy, as you have to really be fair and think of so many things before actually making a choice.  The judging period was very long!  It took us close to 4 hours to decide who would win the following awards.  Best product design for Home Furnishing, Fashion Accessories ,and Holiday Decor.  We then had to decide on who had the best booth, and finally, the Eco-Luxury Award.  This all sound easier said than done!  LOL!

 Here we are in the deliberation room!  Can you feel the tension?!  LOL!  I can almost feel it in this photo!
Here we are in the deliberation room! Can you feel the tension?! LOL! I can almost feel it in this photo!

After hours of deliberation, we finally got to choose our winners and I felt really proud to be a Filipino!  We’re a really talented country and in these challenging times, we really must band together and rally each other so that we can sail through this crisis.  I took so many photos from the fair that I have to break them up in several entries.  In the meantime, enjoy the photos!

We did a final walk through after the judging and Ed Calma gave me a nice smile!  He was the Chairman of the board of judges!  What a trooper!  I know how busy he is but he was there all the way through!
We did a final walk through after the judging and Ed Calma gave me a nice smile! He was the Chairman of the board of judges! What a trooper! I know how busy he is but he was there all the way through!
 I liked this section of the fair where they highlighted several local designers.  This chair was cool!

I liked this section of the fair where they highlighted several local designers. This chair was cool!

 I found this group interesting, they were using plastic tubes.

I found this group interesting. They were using plastic tubes.

One of my fave artists Eric Paras was intrumental in this years FAME as he was the head  consultant and over all design guru for the fair!  CONGRATULATIONS Eric!  It was SUPERB!
One of my fave artists Eric Paras was instrumental in this year’s FAME, as he was the head consultant and overall design guru for the fair! CONGRATULATIONS, Eric! It was SUPERB!

HUGS!
RAJO!

SLIMS!

Tuesday, April 7th, 2009

I just have to share this with all of you!  When I was asked to be on the panel for deliberation for the National Artist for Fashion, there was one name on the list that I really was curious about .  Her name was Salvacion Lim-Higgins.  As a young student of fashion, I already knew the name, but I was really not familiar with the work. I also knew that she had a prestigious fashion school called SLIMS.  I Knew that a lot of famous designers went to school there.  Famous designers like Lulu Tan-Gan, Auggie Cordero, Cesar Gaupo, Oscar Peralta, Joe Salazar, and many many more.

What I did not know is just how AMAZING this woman was!  OMG!  When I was given the literature and the body of her work, I was like FLOORED!  LOL!

I mean, it was really beautiful work!  The gowns were like sculpture!  The shapes were so modern and so interesting that I stayed longer in the panel room more than the others just so that I can take photos and enjoy her artistry more.  I am so happy that I was able to see more of her work and attach images in my mind.

There are a few people in the world that can go by the status of a one name icon.  I truly believe the SLIMS is deserving of this. I do hope that the people who love fashion can talk and discuss more about her and other designers from the past.  I think by paying homage and really studying her legacy, we can grow and become better artists.

SLIMS will be celebrating her 50th anniversary in 2010 and I am sure something truly special will be happening. In the meantime, I am fortunate to have glimpses of her greatness through these photos.

 This is Mrs. Salvacion Lim-HIggins!  She is what you call a true Philippine Fashion ICON!

This is Mrs. Salvacion Lim-HIggins! She is what you call a true Philippine Fashion ICON!

 A selection of photographs with the amazing body of work of SLIM'S

A selection of photographs with the amazing body of work of SLIMS

 This is Tina Maristel-Ocampo!!!  I was her biggest fan in the 80's!  I would wait for her outside fashion shows and ask for her autograph.  LOL!  Here she is wearing one of the last pieces that SLIM"S created.

This is Tina Maristel-Ocampo!!! I was her biggest fan in the '80s! I would wait for her outside fashion shows and ask for her autograph. LOL! Here she is, wearing one of the last pieces that SLIMS created.

 This gown is modeled by the iconic Chona Kasten for those fashion babies out there she was the ultimate fashion muse in the golden age of Philippine Couture!

This gown is modeled by the iconic Chona Kasten. For those fashion babies out there, she was the ultimate fashion muse in the golden age of Philippine Couture!

 This Terno is modeled by Mrs. Edith Nakpil-Rabat.  I am loving  the shape of this gown.

This Terno is modeled by Mrs. Edith Nakpil-Rabat. I am loving the shape of this gown.

This evening cape is really MAJOR!  I wonder where women wore these things then?  I cannot imagine anyone  (Well maybe Tessa Valdes) wear this out today.  I love the shape and the cutting though as its really a beautiful play on proportion.

This evening cape is really MAJOR! I wonder where women wore these things then? I cannot imagine anyone (Well maybe Tessa Valdes) wearing this out today. I love the shape and the cutting though, as it's really a beautiful play on proportion.

 I LOVE THIS!  It feels so fresh and exotic!  This is really how one should translate modern Mindanao!

I LOVE THIS! It feels so fresh and exotic! This is really how one should translate modern Mindanao!

 I imagine Mrs. Imelda Cojuangco in this number!

I imagine Mrs. Imelda Cojuangco in this number!

 This is what I call DRAMAAAAH!  LOL!

This is what I call DRAMAAAAH! LOL!

The detail and the workmanship of SLIM's was legendary!

The detail and the workmanship of SLIMS was legendary!

 I am amazed at how modern the shape of this dress is!  I am really inspired by how draping of this dress!

I am amazed at how modern the shape of this dress is! I am really inspired by the draping of this dress!

 I love the graphic display of the pattern in this number, the sleeves were also very unique and architectural.

I love the graphic display of the pattern in this number. The sleeves were also very unique and architectural.

BIG  HUGS!
RAJO!

2009 National Artists Awards!

Friday, April 3rd, 2009

Something really cool happened to me today!  I was invited to be on the panel on the first deliberation to determine the nominees of who will become the National Artist for Fashion Design. I am not at liberty to tell you anything but I can show you photos!  LOL!

The meeting was held in Old Manila at the NCCA ( National Commission for Culture and the Arts)  building.

The meeting was held in Old Manila at the NCCA ( National Commission for Culture and the Arts) building.

 I love the fact that we have an entire building to make sure that our arts and culture are well taken cared of.  the building is quite impressive as it was spacious and well appointed.

I love the fact that we have an entire building to make sure that our arts and culture are well taken care of. The building is quite impressive as it was spacious and well appointed.

The meetings took up my entire morning, but I really did not care because I was so honored and humbled to be there.  When I entered the room, the energy was so strong. Imagine a room filled with the country’s most talented individuals from various artistic disciplines!  We were all asked to sit according to our respected field of expertise. The task at hand was to narrow the long list of nominees and create a short list.  The process in choosing the national artist is a long and complicated one, but I was just excited to be there!

The room was filled with so many respected artists that I was a bit overwhelmed.

The room was filled with so many respected artists that I was a bit overwhelmed.

I was like a child in awe of the great masters!  It was a really wonderful and educational experience!

 This was my table as Fashion design is under the allied arts category.

This was my table as Fashion Design is under the Allied Arts category.

Great National artists were there like Mr. Arturo Luz and  Mr. Ben Cabrera  "Bencab"

Great National artists were there like Mr. Arturo Luz and Mr. Ben Cabrera

 The fantastically svelte Jose Javier Reyes sat on the broadcasting and film panel.

The fantastically svelte Jose Javier Reyes sat on the broadcasting and film panel.

 We began the day with a beautiful speech by the NCAA executive director Cecille Guidote-Alvarez.  I was astounded by her eloquence, she gave the speech entirely in Filipino and it was if she was reciting a poem.

We began the day with a beautiful speech by the NCAA executive director Cecille Guidote-Alvarez. I was astounded by her eloquence - she gave the speech entirely in Filipino and it was if she was reciting a poem.

 I sat beside Mr. Ildefonso Santos Jr.  He is a national artist for Architecture.  He is a very famous landscape artist.

I sat beside Mr. Ildefonso Santos Jr. He is a national artist for Architecture and a very famous landscape artist.

here we are about to start our discussion with me is Thelma Saj Juan the most important lifestyle journalist in the country.  She is instrumental in pushing all of us fashion designers to reach greater heights. We were also joined by Arc. Melva  Java who hails from Cebu.

Here we are, about to start our discussion. With me is Thelma Saj Juan, the most important lifestyle journalist in the country. She is instrumental in pushing all of us fashion designers to reach greater heights. We were also joined by Arc. Melva Java who hails from Cebu.

 I had a very NAKS moment today!  I am so tickled pink!

I had a very NAKS moment today! I am so tickled pink!

HUGS!
RAJO!

The Taj!

Thursday, February 12th, 2009

On November 26, 2008, a really sad event shook the entire country of India, and perhaps the world. Terrorists attacked several key  tourist areas in Mumbai and killed hundreds of people.  One of the most horrible attacks was at the Taj Palace Hotel.  This hotel is a virtual tourist destination, situated very near the India gate. It was the face of Mumbai.  A total of 151 people were killed in the hotel, and you can really feel the sadness around the area.

I had to pay it a visit and say a prayer for all those innocent victims.  As I entered the hotel, a barrage of security procedures ensued. I really did not mind, as I felt safe the whole time.  The hotel was indeed beautiful, and as I walked around the area the walls were lined with photos documenting its very rich heritage.  I know that Mumbai will triumph over this sad event.

 The beautiful facade of the Taj Palace hotel!

The beautiful facade of the Taj Palace hotel!

 Loving this mans style!  Notes for my next collection!

Loving this man's style! Notes for my next collection!

 Images of the Taj's famous guests.

Images of the Taj's famous guests.

 A tree of life signifying those that perished here.  I said a small prayer as I wish that this will never happen again.

A tree of life signifying those that perished here. I said a small prayer as I wish that this will never happen again.

 Nix with the bell man!  Love the Uniform!

Nix with the bell man! Love the Uniform!

 A close up of the hotel facade.

A close up of the hotel facade.

Another beautiful building near the hotel.

Another beautiful building near the hotel.

 I am in love with the coat of colors with these crows....they are so majestic.

I am in love with the coat of colors with these crows....they are so majestic.

A view of the Bay.  The name bombay is from the Portugese, beautiful bay.

A view of the Bay. The name bombay is from the Portugese, beautiful bay.

 Does the hotel remind you of scary movies?  A bit right?

Does the hotel remind you of scary movies? A bit, right?

Hugs!

RAJO!

Astrology-Architecture

Saturday, February 7th, 2009

The Maharajah of Rajasthan was a great astrologer.  He built this very impressive observatory almost 2 centuries ago!  When I went there, my guide showed me the largest sundial in world, with an accuracy of 2 seconds!  What was so cool about the place is that I likened most of the astrological instruments to modern architecture.  I could picture the place as if it was a modern city.

One of the main reasons why  Rajasthan was the center for stones and Jewelry is that this Maharajah was responsible for defining your Zodiac signs. And since he had the best equipment, most of the astrologers in the country came to practice here.  With the Zodiac came the stones that would bring you luck. Thus, all the jewels and the jewelry followed.

COOL NO?

This is a sun dial, a prototype of sorts, this one could calculate the time with an accuracy of 5 minutes.

This is a sundial, a prototype of sorts, which can calculate the time with an accuracy of 5 minutes.

 Our guide Anil, showing us how the sun dial works.

Our guide Anil, showing us how the sundial works.

 This is the biggest sun dial I have ever seen!  It has an accuracy of  seconds!

This is the biggest sundial I have ever seen! It has an accuracy of seconds!

Another sundial...looks more like a sculpture no? LOL!

Another sundial...looks more like a sculpture no? LOL!

 Posing in front of the biggest sun dial!

Posing in front of the biggest sundial!

 Most of the instruments here still work and lots of students of astrology come here to study.

Most of the instruments here still work and lots of students of astrology come here to study.

 posing in front of an instrument that locates the position of certain planets.

Posing in front of an instrument that locates the position of certain planets.

HUGS!
RAJO!

The Pink City!

Friday, February 6th, 2009

If there is one thing that you must know about me, it’s that I love pink!  I have had several birthday parties with Pink as the main color, so you can imagine my delight when I visited Jaipur.

This place was christened by the Prince of Wales as The Pink City, as everything was made of this rose0colored sandstone.  Jaipur is like a young frenetic child on a suger high! LOL!  There is this constant nervous energy around the city.  It’s very exciting actually, as the sights and sounds make you really feel the real India.

 The famous palace of the winds, this was created so than the women of that period could look at the busy streets away from the masses!  SUSHYAL!

The famous Palace of the Winds : it was created so that the women of that period could look at the busy streets away from the masses! SUSHYAL!

 Imagine that everything in this town is made from this material!  What is not to love!

Imagine that everything in this town is made from this material! What is not to love!

A closeup detail...How romantic no?

A closeup detail...How romantic no?

 We then proceeded to another FORT!   HAAAAY.....But this fort was a bit different!

We then proceeded to another FORT! HAAAAY.....But this fort was a bit different!

 There is an added bonus to the amber fort and this made it quite exciting for me!  They had elephants!

There is an added bonus to the Amber Fort and this made it quite exciting for me! They had elephants!

 Elephants would carry you on their back for 15 minutes steadily bringing you up to the forts entrance!

Elephants would carry you on their back for 15 minutes, steadily bringing you up to the fort's entrance!

 I found this elephant ride so fun! I was having fantasies that we were grand visitors to the fort.

I found this elephant ride so fun! I was having fantasies that we were grand visitors to the fort.

 Nix and I on the elephant! Love the fact that the elephant was painted and decorated pa!

Nix and I on the elephant! Love the fact that the elephant was painted and decorated pa!

Me at the entrance of the fort.

Me at the entrance of the fort.

 The Amber fort is a super large place and only 40% is open to the publice.  These women are part of the team that restores the place still using time old tested techniques.

The Amber Fort is a super large place and only 40% is open to the public. These women are part of the team that restores the place by still using old, time-tested techniques.

 The detail of the place is mind boggling, this entrance way is hand painted and has lasted for a couple of hundred years.

The detail of the place is mind boggling. This entrance way is hand painted and has lasted for a couple of hundred years.

 This is the ceiling of the hall of mirrors!  Those things are all tiny mirror inlay.  GRABE!

This is the ceiling of the hall of mirrors! Those things are all tiny mirror inlay. GRABE!

 Detail shot!  Now imagine doing all this work for a gymnasium size room!

Detail shot! Now imagine doing all this work for a gymnasium-sized room!

This was the ceiling!

This was the ceiling!

 Me posing with near the rose garden, this used to be all roses...nawala na lang nga!

Me posing near the rose garden, which used to be all roses...nawala na lang nga!

 Glad to find out that they have skilled people still doing the mirror work.

Glad to find out that they have skilled people still doing the mirror work.

 The detail of the fort was just incredible!

The detail of the fort was just incredible!

 The view from the top overlooking Old Jaipur.

The view from the top overlooking Old Jaipur.

 Nix and I resting and posing at the same time!

Nix and I resting and posing at the same time!

 Lovely ladies working at the fort.

Lovely ladies working at the fort.

 Trying to do yoga!  I miss yoga na!

Trying to do yoga! I miss yoga na!

 Pa-ART shot!

Pa-ART shot!

More snake charmers!

this is the caldero in the fort!  LAKE NO?  Well ...libo kaya ang pinakakain nila dito! LOL!

This is the kaldero in the fort! LAKE NO? Well ...libo kaya ang pinakakain nila dito! LOL!

 Nix with this courtesans!

Nix with this courtesans!

 On route back to the city we saw this lovely palace, apparently it will be transformed into a 80 room luxury hotel in a few years!  This would be something to look forward to in the future.   Now I want to do some shopping!  Jaipur is the city to shop in as this has been the center for commerce for centuries.

En route back to the city, we saw this lovely palace. Apparently, it will be transformed into an 80-room luxury hotel in a few years! This would be something to look forward to in the future. Now I want to do some shopping! Jaipur is the city to shop in, as this has been the center for commerce for centuries.

HUGS!
RAJO!