There’s a high drama when a woman wears the Terno. Unmistakably one of the most elegant national costumes the world has seen,  The Filipino Dress embodies both luxury and sophistication. Here are the Terno’s most innovative forms as interpreted by Cebu’s fashion designers.

ON RIA: Organdy Terno with hand-made lace appliqué of coral motif by HARLEY RUEDAS; ON ERIC: Grey Linen suit by BERGAMO

ON RIA: Organdy Terno with hand-made lace appliqué of coral motif by HARLEY RUEDAS; ON ERIC: Grey Linen suit by BERGAMO

ON RIA: Silk Gazaar serpentine gown with lace appliqué by REN MANABAT; Mother-of-pearl choker by ARTIZANS

ON RIA: Mermaid-cut Terno  with laser-cut butterfly sleeves and corseted bodice by BARBIE ALVEZ; Diamanté collar by NOREEN TSENG

ON RIA: Tulle Terno with pleated bodice and bouffant skirt by WILLIAM MANAHAN; neckpiece by ARTIZANS

ON RIA: Beige  chiffon trapeze Terno with lace underlay by REY HUMBERTO VILLEGAS, necklace from ARTIZANS; ON ERIC: stylized tuxedo by BERGAMO

sittings editor KATSY BORROMEO creative director MIKEY SANCHEZ photography DAN DOUGLAS ONG hair & makeup GARI SON and CINDY SUAZO models RIA BOLIVAR and ERIC ALESSI locale THE RIZAL LIBRARY