Youngest designer wins in Project Runway PH

Twenty-one-year-old Joy Chicano flew all the way from Eastern Samar to showcase and impress seasoned designers with his own visual idea of what a good wardrobe should look like.

THE WORLD’S MOST INNOVATIVE CATWALK SHINED THROUGH THE STORM

17 July 2015 marked a revolutionized move in modern fashion presentation when Jessica Minh Anh transformed the award-winning solar power plant, Gemasolar, into the world’s newest catwalk in between sunrays and storm. The model and entrepreneur, known for combining art, architecture, culture, and fashion, successfully added technology into her 10th history-making showcase. Despite the unexpected weather right before the grand event, Jessica Minh Anh’s problem-solving ability and resilience resulted in a true masterpiece.

The preparation for the big show started the night before when the stylish marquee was installed as the backstage area. By 4pm on 17 July 2015, VIP seats alongside the catwalk in the center of Gemasolar, red carpet, advanced sound and lighting system, DJ space, and beverage bar were all perfectly set up. The unexpected storm, which came at 5pm with heavy rain and wind, cut the entire power supply of the catwalk and destroyed the backstage area. In the mid of the crisis and potential show cancellation, Jessica Minh Anh made a decision to turn the bus which transported models from Seville to Gemasolar into the new backstage area, clean the mess, and carry on with the event once the sun rose again. “Jessica Minh Anh’s proactiveness in finding solutions very quickly to all the technical problems was no doubt impressive. However, it was her ability to not only stay calm and collective but also to motivate the entire team of over 60 of us who were shocked and scared to continue with the show that really touched me. She is first and foremost a leader,” said Alexander Hardouin, CEO of EStead Production.

The catwalk started at 8pm with the cinematic backdrop of the iconic central towers and thousands of shining mirrors. The epic scenery saw Jessica Minh Anh’s grand entrance in the highly anticipated red flamenco dress bursting with layers and texture. The exotic beauty was followed by other fashion models in dramatic maxi dresses which highlighted their perfect silhouette. Designed by Sevilla’s very own fashion talent Pilar Vera, the opening collection inserted romance and glamour onto the sunshine catwalk. Captivating audience in a completely different style, Beijing-based Spanish designer Paloma Sanchez premiered an exquisite jewelry collection influenced by Chinese culture. The luxury pieces unveiled the beauty of uncut stones with rare formations as well as a fluid combination of Oriental charm and European chic. Focusing on intricate details and futuristic patterns, Turkish jewelry brand Ekria came in next with architectural pieces in gold and silver. The striking laser-cut collection portrayed both simplicity and versatility, which signified the concept of wearable art. 

Returning to Jessica Minh Anh’s extraordinary catwalk after the New York fashion phenomenon earlier this year, Pakistani designer Syeda Amera remained consistent with her creative approach of using abstract motif, bold cuts, and sequined formations. With Gemasolar in mind, the innovative artist embellished exclusively designed mirrors and crystals to greatly enhance the sun’s effects on her luxurious looks. Closing the show with class and elegance, Vietnamese celebrity designer Hoang Hai accompanied by Pandora jewelry, introduced an alluring Haute Couture collection made from the finest materials, decorated with lace, brocade, Italian tulle, and Swarovski crystals. The most impressive of all, the finale dress which embodied Jessica Minh Anh’s strength and sophistication, is a quintessential example of advanced beadwork, original patterns, and intricate transparency.

J Summer Fashion Show 2015 has not only strengthened Jessica Minh Anh’s position as the world’s most innovative catwalk producer, but also sees her inspiring a new generation of creative leaders towards a more eco-friendly direction. “It was an honor for TORRESOL ENERGY to have Jessica Minh Anh transform GEMASOLAR into the first ever solar powered catwalk. Having seen her fashion shows on the Eiffel Tower, Grand Canyon Skywalk, London’s Tower Bridge, and One World Trade Center, we knew she was special. We find it very meaningful that Jessica chose such an ecological scenario as Gemasolar to showcase fashion. It speaks a lot about her belief in green power”, said Raul Mendoza Ruiz, Gemasolar Plant Manager, Torresol Energy. It was no surprised that Jessica Minh Anh impressed Gemasolar management with her extraordinary vision and an exceptional track record of mind-blowing catwalks. It was, however, her pulling off the show so flawlessly in less than 2-month preparation in the severe heat of Sevilla with plenty of logistic challenges that has made Jessica Minh Anh a leader.

J Summer Fashion Show 2015 was supported by Ilunion Atrium Hotel Madrid, Wowble!, Carmen Olmedo, Cristina Rivero, Rosabus, Hotel Casa 1800 Sevilla, Boutique Hotel Holos, Benchamark Capital, InEvents Malaga, Calitos Café y Desgustación, Beim Jupiter Accessoires, Garsan Banderas & Publicidad and Pedro Munumer among others. For more information, visit http://www.jmodelmanagement.co.uk and http://www.facebook.com/jmodelmanagement.

Returning to Jessica Minh Anh’s extraordinary catwalk after the New York fashion phenomenon earlier this year, Pakistani designer Syeda Amera remained consistent with her creative approach of using abstract motif, bold cuts, and sequined formations. With Gemasolar in mind, the innovative artist embellished exclusively designed mirrors and crystals to greatly enhance the sun’s effects on her luxurious looks. Closing the show with class and elegance, Vietnamese celebrity designer Hoang Hai accompanied by Pandora jewelry, introduced an alluring Haute Couture collection made from the finest materials, decorated with lace, brocade, Italian tulle, and Swarovski crystals. The most impressive of all, the finale dress which embodied Jessica Minh Anh’s strength and sophistication, is a quintessential example of advanced beadwork, original patterns, and intricate transparency.

J Summer Fashion Show 2015 has not only strengthened Jessica Minh Anh’s position as the world’s most innovative catwalk producer, but also sees her inspiring a new generation of creative leaders towards a more eco-friendly direction. “It was an honor for TORRESOL ENERGY to have Jessica Minh Anh transform GEMASOLAR into the first ever solar powered catwalk. Having seen her fashion shows on the Eiffel Tower, Grand Canyon Skywalk, London’s Tower Bridge, and One World Trade Center, we knew she was special. We find it very meaningful that Jessica chose such an ecological scenario as Gemasolar to showcase fashion. It speaks a lot about her belief in green power”, said Raul Mendoza Ruiz, Gemasolar Plant Manager, Torresol Energy. It was no surprised that Jessica Minh Anh impressed Gemasolar management with her extraordinary vision and an exceptional track record of mind-blowing catwalks. It was, however, her pulling off the show so flawlessly in less than 2-month preparation in the severe heat of Sevilla with plenty of logistic challenges that has made Jessica Minh Anh a leader.

J Summer Fashion Show 2015 was supported by Ilunion Atrium Hotel Madrid, Wowble!, Carmen Olmedo, Cristina Rivero, Rosabus, Hotel Casa 1800 Sevilla, Boutique Hotel Holos, Benchamark Capital, InEvents Malaga, Calitos Café y Desgustación, Beim Jupiter Accessoires, Garsan Banderas & Publicidad and Pedro Munumer among others. For more information, visit http://www.jmodelmanagement.co.uk and http://www.facebook.com/jmodelmanagement.

GEMASOLAR
Gemasolar is a global symbol for innovation and sustainability. It is the first plant in the world to combine the central tower technology with a molten salt thermal storage system that produces 24- hour-a-day electricity using only the power of the sun. Its construction by SENER marked a milestone in the concentrated solar power sector. The unique technology of Gemasolar has been widely recognized with prestigious awards such as, the European Business Awards and the Award of Merit by FIDIC, which distinguishes Gemasolar as one of the best global engineering works of the past 100 years. The iconic image of Gemasolar has served as a setting for renowned brands such as Louis Vuitton, Mercedes Benz, Ford and PlayStation.

The world’s most daring catwalk

CATWALKING IN THE SKY: THE WORLD’S MOST DARING FASHION SHOW ON THE GRAND CANYON SKYWALK

Models will dare to walk at 4,000 feet over the Grand Canyon in the highly anticipated J Autumn Fashion Show in the United States on 1 November 2013. Staged on the engineering marvel ‘the Skywalk’, also known as the “best new bridge” made of glass, the show will demonstrate an exquisite combination of human creative genius and Mother Nature’s greatest wonder in an hour long catwalk. It is also set to celebrate the rise of the new generation of young self-made entrepreneurs led by fashion model Jessica Minh Anh.

Tweetie de Leon hosts‘Project Runway’s new season

by Nickie Wang

Fashion and commercial model Tweetie de Leon-Gonzales is going to be Heidi Klum’s local counterpart as she joins the third season of Project Runway Philippines.

A whole new world for Jewel Mische

People…are talking about

Jewel Mische

Her appearance on Maalaala Mo Kaya last Saturday re-affirms her status as one of the stars to watch out for this year. Her career, which was frozen when she’s still  with GMA-7, suddenly became splendid. It’s so alive that she can even sing A Whole New World with gusto. Now that her revitalized career sees a better future and a solid direction, can she also find love among the bachelors in the Kapamilya Network?

Showbiz’ most stylish celebrities

by Nickie Wang

There are people who never run out of style no matter what the trend is; they eternally stand out and remain in. Similarly, this follows the idea that fashion trends change but styles remain timeless. So what would you rather be – stylish or fashionable?

During the first-ever Star Studio Celebrity Style Awards, popular names in the world of entertainment turned the red carpet at the Dusit Hotel Thani into a fashion runway as they walked and posed for the cameras in their most glamorous outfits.

Stars like Piolo Pascual, Ely Buendia, Lucy Torres-Gomez, Angel Aquino, and Sarah Geronimo were among the big winners that night. Voted by fans, they simply depict what star quality is and what it takes to be called stylish personalities in their own right. They were awarded Most Stylish Leading Man, Male Celebrity Style Icon, Female Celebrity Style Icon, Most Stylish Female Host, and Most Stylish Female Performer, respectively.

Venus in Twitter universe

by Nickie Wang

Maria Venus Raj’s fourth runner-up finish in the recent Miss Universe earned mixed reactions from people who tuned in to the most anticipated beauty contest in the world. She was almost kissing the diamond-studded tiara when something happened in the Q&A portion that made the panel of judges decide to give title instead to Mexican beauty, Jimena Navarrete.

Poised for a more colorful career

By Nickie Wang

Before embarking on a trip to the United States to join Piolo Pascual and Sam Milby as a support act in the Heartthrobs and Friends concert tour, Bea Alonzo faced the entertainment press and the media to express her delight for having a blooming career.

Fresh from the massive success of Miss You Like Crazy, a movie that reunited Bea’s box-office tandem with John Lloyd Cruz, she is pleased to inform her fans that she is set give life to another challenging role entrusted to her by Kapamilya network.

Mister International Philippines 2009 winners

Mister International Phillippines 2009 winner Michael Manansala

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Michael Manansala, a 23-year-old freelanced model from Quezon City, won the Mister International Philippines 2009 title after replacing one of the finalists two days before the final event.

Standing at 6’2″, Michael is among the tallest contestants and one of the crowd favorites. Apart from the title, the native hunk of Pampanga also won Mr. Personality.

Project Runway Philippines returns on ETC

By Nickie Wang/ Manila Standard Today

What is the measure of a great fashion designer?

Solar Entertainment chief operating officer Peter Chanliong can’t answer this question but he assures that ETC Entertainment Central viewers will find out the answer if they tune in every Wednesda y night.

“Let’s just leave this question to the fashion experts,” Chanliong piped out in response to the question indicated in the Project Runway Philippines Season 2 program launch invite.

Joined by other Solar Entertainment top executives like Wilson Tieng, Chanliong graced the exclusive preview of PRP Season 2 held at the Embassy Superclub on Aug. 7.

Everybody in Solar was tight lipped in giving further details about the show’s second season, and that what made the media and guests all excited while waiting for the exclusive preview of the reality series that premiered last night on ETC.

“The Project Runway Philippines season 1 was very successful, and that’s the very reason why we felt that season 2 will be much bigger than the previous one,” Chanliong, who is also the executive producer of Project Runway Philippines, told Standard Today. “We incorporated the experiences we had with the season 1 to make the new season much bigger, and the only thing I can assure is that the drama will definitely make it more fun to watch.”

Chanliong added that Solar is not particular with television ratings stating that they have a captive audience who religiously follow their programs, “We measure the success of our programs with events like this,” pointing to the numerous preppy men and high-heeled women who crowded the venue, “And every time we launch a program, we are overwhelmed by the tremendous response and support we get from our audience,” he furthered.

From the much talked-about season finale held at the SMX Convention Center last November, Project Runway Philippines returns on its second season on ETC with international model and actress Teresa Herrera as host, fashion designer Jojie Lloren as mentor to the contestants, and fashion columnist Apples Aberin and fashion designer Rajo Laurel as judges.

Behind the seams

When asked to give a description of the show, fashion designer Rajo Laurel blurted out just one word—salacious (or scandalous in a more familiar term).

We had to agree with Laurel’s description of the program as it matches the unraveling glimpses of the PRP second season special preview. The first episode centers on the introduction of the competing designers, the first task that challenge their creativity and presence of mind, and the sneak peak of an appalling workroom confrontation between two of the contestants.

There is no tear-stained elimination yet but the show’s first episode promises to give televiewers the first glance of another edition of delicious episodes filled with more innovative challenges, more exciting guests and a more talented group of new designers.

But what sets PRP apart from other editions around the world? It’s the Filipino culture that uniquely adds color to the show. Each contestant manages to flaunt his or her skill while still considering the challenges as friendly competition.

The designers

Thirteen new breed of designers will compete for a chance to showcase their creations at the Philippine Fashion Week to be held in November, they are Cherry Veric, Hanz Conquilla, Hazel Sta. Ana, Manny Marquez, Meann Santos, Patrick Galang, Pau Geronimo, Randy Leano, Richie Bondoc, Russel Villafuerte, Santi Obcena and Tracy Dizon.

According to Jojie Lloren, also a professor at the School of Fashion and the Arts, these young designers are from different walks of life and some of them are not fashion designers by profession but they are taking this bold step to follow their heart to introduce their skills and fashion philosophies.

“What makes Project Runway Philippines 2 more exciting is that we have gathered 13 different personalities with completely different backgrounds. We have a call center agent, an accountant, and a single mother,” Lloren said.

Each week, one designer will be eliminated until it’s down to three contestants. The Final 3 will each be given a chance to showcase a collection at the Philippine Fashion Week, where the judges will declare who has the best collection and is the winner of Project Runway Philippines Season 2.

The best among the 13 designers will take home P500,000 in cash, an editorial spread in Preview magazine, sewing machines from Brother International, a designer package from Mannequin Inc., and a summer scholarship package from School of Fashion and the Arts’ European partner school, Instituto Marangoni.

Watch Prject Runway Tuesdays at 10 p.m. on ETC available on SBN 21, SkyCable channel 16, Global Destiny channel 30, Cable Link channel 48 and Smart myTV.

Nickie Wang (left) and Solar Entertainment chief operating officer and Project Runway Philippines executive producer Peter Chanliong (Venue: Embassy Superclub, Image by: Pranz Kaeno)