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

Claudia Bezza-Yeung’s Santorini Cruise Collection Seaside Debut

By Kingsley Medalla

The Santorini Cruise Collection launch, Claudia Bezza-Yeung’s fifth, held last May in Kandaya Resort in Daanbantayan, was inspired by the Greek island of Santorini. Claudia’s designs exude sophistication, and a touch of Mediterranean charm. The collection features flowing maxi dresses in vibrant colors that mirror the azure waters of the Aegean Sea, lightweight fabrics that effortlessly sway with the ocean breeze, and intricate design that adds a touch of opulence to each piece.

The collection itself is a celebration of summer: mini dresses with headbands and tote bags evoke images of strolls along whitewashed streets. Each piece is carefully crafted to capture the essence of Santorini’s charm.

The color palette of soft pastels like pale blues and pinks, are juxtaposed with bold pops of color, like romantic pinks and vibrant yellows. This combination creates a visually striking contrast that adds depth and interest to each look.

Kandaya Resort, with its breathtaking sunsets and white sand beaches, provides the perfect backdrop for the 55-pieces of beach wear.

“The collection, as with all our pieces, is made from discarded fabric that we source from China and Dubai,” shares designer Claudia Bezza Yeung. “The fabrics for this collection were acquired at different times and were kept in storage since the pandemic, and it was only recently that they all came together with this vision: Santorini! ”

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this fashion show also serves as an opportunity to showcase Bezza’s talent on an international stage. By collaborating with local artisans and incorporating traditional techniques into her designs, this former model-turned-designer pays homage to Santorini’s rich cultural heritage.

Claudia learned sewing skills from her mother, starting early by dressing up her dolls with fabric scraps. “When I was working and traveling all over the world, I had to decide to carry fewer clothes in my luggage, so I would recycle clothes and customize the ones I already had so they would look different every time.” Soon, she began selling her creations to fellow models.

“I do not sketch. I find it better to manipulate fabrics directly on the body,” Claudia shares. “I sew and drape directly on my body most of the time, and that’s when I get ideas on transforming the dress.

The Santorini Cruise Collection Launch, a Fashion Show on the Beach is not just another runway event but an immersive experience that celebrates both style and culture. Its idyllic setting and stunning designs leave an indelible mark on all fortunate enough to witness it firsthand.

Fashion

The First Philippine Terno Gala at the Waterfront

On March 10, 2023, important guests and personalities entered the halls of Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino to attend the first Philippine Terno Gala in Cebu brought to you by Cary Santiago.

The Philippine Terno Gala’s fashion show showcased couture pieces by world class Filipino designers: Rajo Laurel, Mark Bumgarner, Philip Rodriguez, and Cary Santiago.

The event started with Philip Rodriguez’ daring designs that left the crowd with the need to see more.

Followed by Rajo Laurel’s contemporary pieces, keeping the ongoing gasps and cheers by the crowd alive to fill the ballroom’s ambiance.

Next to grace the crowd is Mark Bumgarner’s elegant designs had everyone raising their cameras to capture the admirable pieces.

To end the fashion show, Cary Santiago left a statement as the runway welcomed stunning designs leaving the crowd in awe.

As a surprise to the guests, special rewards were given to the crowd stoppers of the night with special thanks to Dia Gold and Jun Villanel.

Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino proved once more that they are the premier venue choice for grand events. Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino will see you all in their upcoming events as a part of their year-long celebration of its 25th anniversary.

Events

CEBU KALEIDO: A Night of Fashion and Celebration at Crimson Mactan Resort and Spa

Miranda Konstatinidou’s beautiful beach wear and jewellery worn by her guests at an intimate beach party at Crimson Resort in Mactan. Konplott is Miranda’s luxury fashion accessory brand sold in Europe, worn by fashion icons and celebrities (no, it’s not sold locally) while her exclusive beach wear in silk are fabric designed by her, are also sold in high end resorts around the world. Meanwhile, Crimson Resort in Mactan will officially close temporarily for a makeover as most of their beachfront villas were damaged heavily by last December.s super typhoon Odette. Here’s to a great reopening of Crimson in a few months. (photography by Steffen Billhardt)