The I Can Serve Foundation conjured up an iconic fashion moment, the ‘Fashion Can Serve’ fashion show. This inspirational event was held at the ballroom of the Raffles Makati in partnership with Philip Stein and Jewelmer. Since its inception in 1999, I Can Serve Foundation’s underlying theme is spreading awareness, with the Philippines having the highest incidence of breast cancer in Southeast Asia. With this year’s new message “Why We Fight,” its president Tang Singson said: “Our theme emphasizes the reason why persons diagnosed with breast cancer choose to fight. They do this for their spouses.”
Six of the country’s leading fashion designers showcased their Holiday 2017 collections to raise support for this noble cause. Libet Virata, I Can Serve Foundation chairman, said: “Our muses this year will include a mother and her young child, our grandmothers and grandchild. That’s how the show differs from last year’s. We also have some supporters who walk in honor of a family member or friend who passed away.”
The luxe collection celebrated strength and showcased not only sleek silhouettes but sophistication from all six designers, namely: Ito Curata, Philippine Tatler’s choice for ball gowns, with his distinct aesthetics. JC Buendia, with his choice of color pink with design elements of cherry blossoms and peonies. Cary Santiago‘s muted colors, described as a celebration of woman’s fluidity and femininity. Vania Romoff said, “To convey strength seen through a woman’s beautiful figure.” Mia Arcenas with two aspects of a woman: the soft, feminine, and strength. And Rosenthal Tee with Eastern Asian influences. They have certain things in common, notably their sense of style and inspiration.
Maureen Wroblewitz, the first Filipina “Asia’s Next Top Model” is the face of Fashion Can Serve 2017. Spirits were especially high as the audience cheered when other muses walked the runway, among them: Margie Floirendo, Gloria Diaz, Wynn Wynn Ong, Tootsie Angara, Techi Velasquez, Mila Camus, Sandy Moran, Katarina Rodriguez, Sabrina Panlilio, co-founder Crisann Celdran, Solen Heusaff, and Jasmin Smith. The highlight was a cancer survivor who walked down the catwalk radiating happiness and triumph. Sponsors were: Security Bank, Del Monte Philipines, Manulife, Pagcor, Ideal Vision Center, Mundo Design + Build, and Mercedes Benz.
