Fashion

Steal Crazy Rich Asian Astrid Leong’s Look With Neil Felipp’s Clutch!

Astrid Leong is the boss woman we all aspire to be. The famed Neil Felipp clutch seemed made just for her—it’s not surprising though, considering Neil Felipp pieces tend to be conversation pieces all their own, perfect for Crazy Rich Asians.

Back in 2016, in our luxury issue, we wrote about Cebu-based designer Neil Felipp and his creations. He’s known for his unique and elegant high fashion accessories and has been making waves in the local fashion industry—and internationally, too, especially with the well-deserved hype over the movie adaptation of Kevin Kwan’s Crazy Rich Asians book.

Neil’s aesthetic is best described as ‘ethereal elegance.’ His inspirations come from many sources: literature, films, and characters, fictional or real. Essential to Neil’s process is looking at the world through a child’s eyes—a world filled with wonder.

Highly popular is collection of minaudières: small decorative handbags, without handles or straps that feature mermaids, dragons, snakes and even apes. Ape rings, bangles, pendants, necklaces, and earrings also star in his Simian jewelry collection designed in partnership with De Novo Diamonds.

Neil has also worked with Brian Tenorio, Monchet Y Cia, and Ferimar in the past. He had collaborated with Shangri-La Mactan Resort and Spa on Mugnâ, a series curated to promote Filipino talent with the Shangri-La lifestyle.

“The collection is titled Antoinette the Mad,” Neil shared in the 2016 Luxury issue of Zee Lifestyle. “My inspiration is what would happen if Marie Antoinette, the Queen of France, survives the French Revolution, enters the rabbit hole, and has tea with the Mad Hatter. I must say this is one of my most playful collections yet.”

Integrity is Neil’s primary consideration when deciding with who to collaborate with. He works with partners both big and small; monetary value is secondary. Constantly amazed by the endless possibilities for design—from the accessibility of raw materials and human resources to constant advancements in technology—Neil feels it is his responsibility to create amazing high fashion accessories for the world to enjoy.

Back then, Arcy Gayatin—another of Cebu’s famed fashion designers, had quipped, “He’s going to be mentioned in the next Crazy Rich Asians book,” which referred to how the author of the serial bestseller Kevin Kwan had admired a Neil Felipp clutch during a visit to Manila.

Two years since, and we finally get to see the aforementioned clutch. The Siren Minaudiere in Black Capiz is deserving of the praise, looking chic in the hands of Astrid Leong who embodies luxury.

Haven’t seen the Crazy Rich Asians movie yet? You’re missing out—aside from being the most talked about movie this season for its plot and screenplay, it’s secured Asian representation on the silver screen. Watch it now!

Fashion

The Qipao As Interpreted by Innovative Filipino Designers: PHILIP RODRIGUEZ

The Qipao, an iconic symbol of Chinese fashion, takes center stage as we celebrate the Lunar New Year of the Wood Dragon. This singular closely-fitted garment crafted from the most opulent silks originated in 1920’s Shanghai. ZEE fashion editor Oj Hofer, has sought the creative insights of some of the Philippines’ most innovative designers for their interpretation of the elegant Qipao, also known as Cheongsam.

Cebu’s esteemed designer, Philip Rodriguez, pays homage to imperial attire with this stunning yellow silk brocade qipao. While adhering to the traditional cheongsam silhouette, Rodriguez infuses a touch of sensuality by incorporating see-through silk tulle panels along the waistline. Known for his timeless designs and culturally respectful creations, Rodriguez’s attention to detail is unparalleled. His embellishments are intricate and exquisite, showcasing impeccable taste and luxurious design without veering into ostentation. Take, for instance, his cheongsam for the Year of the Dragon. While it may seem daring compared to traditional sensibilities, Rodriguez maintains elegance by delicately veiling the wearer’s skin with sheer tulle on the cutout side panels. The front slit of the dress is cautiously calculated to strike the perfect balance between modesty and allure “I design for women who possess sophistication beyond their years, “ Philip emphasizes. “My clothes are crafted to evoke a sense of beauty and allure, leaving her feeling exquisite and confident.” As a seasoned designer, Rodriguez consistently achieves harmony in his designs. His qipao for 2024 seamlessly blends elements of royalty and sensuality, luxury and practicality, reflecting his mastery of the craft and his ability to create pieces that are truly elegant and well-balance.

Fashion

The Qipao As Interpreted by Innovative Filipino Designers: JC BUENDIA

JC Buendia, celebrated for his ability to tell a million style stories through minimalist details, is a master of clean, chic lines in fashion. Eschewing frivolity and nonsensical embellishments, every element of his designs contributes to their overall elegance.

Inspired by cinematic portrayals of Chinoiserie, Buendia’s first fascination with the Qipao began with Gloria Romero’s iconic portrayal of a Chinese princess disguised as a ‘sampan’ girl in the 1957 film “Hong Kong Holiday.”

“This admiration for orientalalia only deepened as I watched films like “The Last Emperor” and “In The Mood For Love,” JC recalls.

Buendia’s latest creation is a testament to this cinematic influence. His interpretation of the Qipao for the Year of the Wood Dragon features a cropped top crafted from silk Dupioni, embellished with diamond brooches on the reverse closure for a touch of glamour. Paired with a tea-length bouffant skirt made from frothy layers of delicate tulle, the ensemble exudes sophistication and timeless elegance.

With meticulous attention to detail and a keen eye for design, JC Buendia’s Qipao captures the essence of cinematic glamour while offering a contemporary twist on a classic silhouette. It’s a tribute to the enduring allure of Chinoiserie and the timeless beauty of the Cheongsam.

Fashion

The Qipao As Interpreted by Innovative Filipino Designers: PROTACIO EMPACES

Protacio Empaces is renowned for his talent in reinventing historical silhouettes into stylish statements perfect for modern women’s lifestyles. His reinterpretations present wearable, contemporary, and highly coveted fashion pieces. The distinct embroidery he incorporates adds an extra touch of charm to his creations. Take, for instance, his cheongsam adorned with delicately hand-embroidered macro daisies and trapunto leaves. “I imagined a vibrant qipao inspired by tropical aesthetics, tailored for chic city living in ASEAN mega-cities. I’m using cotton pique for its structure and infusing it with lively colours to retain a stylish, sensual silhouette,” explains Protacio. His knee-length qipao captures the timeless sophistication seen in Maggie Cheong’s iconic look in the classic film “In the Mood for Love.” Crafted for the Year of the Dragon, this design seamlessly complements the film’s aesthetic, presenting a potential addition to the character’s wardrobe. Seasoned designer Protacio’s creations speak to women aged 30 to 80. His intial Qipao offering for 2024 combines modern elegance with classic charm that resonates with these women’s sophisticated tastes and vibrant lifestyles.