Fashion

Zee Fashion Finds

Zee Fashion Finds invites everyone to donate the
clothes, bags and other accessories are spending more time in the closet than out in
the sun. Send in the bags that no longer spend time on your arm or the clothes that
you’ve outgrown to support charity, and make a little extra on the side.

ZEE FASHION FORWARD

On September 5-7, style makes its way to the Rizal Library, where Zee Lifestyle hosts a fashion extravaganza to celebrate designer finds, Cebuano talent and being Fashion Forward. Charity is chic here, with a percentage of the profits going to the Rizal Library, the Beautiful Cebu Movement Foundation, an organization dedicated to improving Cebu’s appearance, and various charities.

The entire Rizal Library will be host to highly fashionable activities, including an exhibit of the entries from Zee’s own Shades of Gres design competition, where contestants were tasked to create pieces inspired by “Madame Gres” Alix Barton. Winner of the competition will be awarded a scholarship from the Fashion Institute of Design and Arts.

Purchase of a Zee Lifestyle magazine on-site serves as the entrance fee, which will include access to Zee Fashion Finds and the exhibits.

MARTINI & MOVIES

Samsung Smart TV presents Martini & Movies on September 5 and 6 at the Samsung Lounge in the Rizal Library Ballroom, in cooperation with Alliance Francaise. Enjoy screenings of highly fashionable films on Samsung’s cutting-edge technology that promises a unique viewing experience. The screenings are coupled with refreshments; the usual hotdogs and popcorn enjoyed at the movies are complemented with overflowing servings of martinis, for a truly cosmopolitan film viewing.

PEARL TALKS

Jewelmer treats guests to a series of Pearl Talks on September 5 and 6, where the brand brings in experts to discuss pearls and their value. Guests are given the chance to purchase their own finely crafted pearl jewelry from Jewelmer, a brand known for its collection of rare golden Palawan South Sea pearls. High tea will be served during the talk, so guests can enjoy tea, scones and pastries while admiring Jewelmer’s wide collection of valuable pearl adornments.

ZEE FASHION FINDS

Zee Lifestyle provides the perfect reason to clean out the closet and make room for chic purchases at a fraction of the price with Zee Fashion Finds, a designer bazaar that proves charity is chic. On September 5-7, the Rizal Library Ballroom will become a treasure trove of Kate Spade and Prada handbags, evening gowns from Inno Sotto and Cary Santiago, and other brands to be sold at great prices. Fashion Finds is a part of Zee Fashion Forward, a four-day affair that celebrates style and fashion with activities such as Martinis & Movies and Pearl Talks, and culminating with a show from Dubai-based fashion designer Furne One.

“Zee Fashion Finds is a collaborative effort of Zee Lifestyle Magazine and the Wicked Sisters to benefit the Rizal Library Building and the Beautiful Cebu Movement Foundation,” says Katsy Borromeo, Zee’s managing editor. “Since the curated closet is all the rage now, you can de-clutter your closet, sell or donate items to ZFF and proceeds can go to either a foundation of your choice or the Beautiful Cebu Movement. Or you just go and shop guilt-free, knowing that proceeds will do your preferred charity some good.”

“Zee Fashion Finds is unique because it puts together for the first time slightly used or even brand new designer items like clothes, sunglasses and bags for sale in a fun way. Some of these items are owned by the personalities in Cebu and even celebrities. This is really more than your usual designer bazaar,” says the Wicked Sisters as they prepare for the event. “We have been pretty busy spreading the word about ZFF through TV and radio ads, as well as through social networking. We will be collecting and preparing the items for the Zee Fashion Finds soon, which to be honest might be our favorite part.” Drop off your items during office hours at the Zee Publications office at the ground floor of the PDI Building, General Cuenco Avenue, Banilad, Cebu City, right across Country Mall.

FURNE ONE FINALLY

Zee orchestrates a fashionable homecoming with Furne One Finally, the grand finale to Zee Fashion Forward. The Dubai-based Cebuano designer has garnered international recognition for his avant-garde pieces that have made their way on runways in London and Los Angeles, as well as on celebrities on the red carpet and on stage. September 7 marks the day the Rizal Library Ballroom is transformed into a runway to showcase Furne One’s artistically extravagant designs in his first ever couture show in Cebu. A limited number of tickets are available for P5,000, which includes cocktails at 7:00pm prior to the show, and post-event drinks courtesy of Grey Goose.

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.