Germany's Next Top Model 2010: Furne ONE's next "BIG" thing

                      panoramic Cologne from the Rhine River

Cologne lies on the River Rhine, in Germany,and is a major cultural center of the Rhineland with its vibrant arts scene. Cologne is home to more than 30 museums and hundreds of galleries. Exhibitions range from local ancient Roman archeological sites to contemporary graphics and sculpture.

                                               COLOGNE Cathedral


Cologne is also well-known for its celebration of Cologne Carnival, the annual reggae summerjam, and Cologne Gay Pride...and this year's venue for the hottest Germany's Next Top Model 2010.

Furne One will be flying to Cologne with his collection for the finals of the stylish reality show hosted by Heidi Klum on July 2010, intimately revealed in a dinner at  Lemongrass- a thai restaurant famous for its savoury Phad Thai and Tom Yom Kha.

Germany’s Next Top Model is a reality-based show hosted by Heidi Klum, the concept of which was taken from the America’s Next Top Model. Heidi Klum, acting as one of the judges as well as the executive producer of the show, chooses from among a maximum of 19 contestants vying for the prestigious honor of becoming the next top model for IMG. The competitiveness of the modeling world is such that a lot of women try out in the hopes of being a part of the modeling world. The idea of the Next Top Model was birthed by Tyra Banks, the host and judge of the America’s Next Top Model show, where the show’s success is evident with the continuing seasons aired on the television.
Germany’s Next Top Model basically revolves around the contestants and how they work both off camera and on camera. For every episode, one contestant gets eliminated, but there are some episodes where two, three or no contestants become eliminated. This or second elimination get to have a makeover, which can greatly improve their chances with the competitiodepends on the panel’s consensus or on what episode they are already in.

fierceOne: Soaring New Heights
Furne One will proceed to Barcelona and Madrid for inspirations for his next DEBUT SHOW at LONDON FASHION WEEK.
Then to Prague, Germany and Norway...for further inspirations.
Furne One will also join the Dubai Fashion Fiesta Show this year.
Not forgetting the Big Show this July for the famous BENCH Fashion Show with Michael Cinco, Ezra Santos and Val Taguba.

busy..busy..busy Furne One!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


But before that, the fashion butterfly will stretch his wings on a business trip to Manila for final negotiation on his solo show this October.

Friends & HERMES

Luxury and style came together in an evening of sheer indulgence at the recent birthday party hosted by fashion designer and blogger Butz Fuentes. The intimate soiree, held at JUNSHUI- an Asian Fusion, was marked by a mood of soft relaxation. As sparkling wine and scrumptious hors d'oeuvres did the rounds, the select guests were treated to Junshui's savoury and mouth watering buffet,from tempura to sushi,Malaysian curry chicken to Thai's hot sumptuous array of delicious dishes...a culinary feast indeed, pampering riches in gastronomic experience.
Lending glamour to the select gathering was stunning Christina Barrientos, who was the epitome of elegance in her classy black fusion. Conversations and bubbly flowed freely throughout this intimately mellow soiree making it a memorable gathering of Dubai's " beau monde".

                                                                                                                                                         

Held at the only seven star hotel on earth, the elegant and fabulous Burj Al Arab in Dubai on March 12,2010..a day after my birthday.In this photo:L-R/ Michael Cinco, Val Taguba,Ezra Santos and Christina Barrientos,

The affair was attended by my innermost circle of friends who always been there through thick and thin.From left: Albert Andrada, Bandoix Flores, Izhcka Zeta,Angelo Estera,(standing) me,BUTZ FUENTES..then Furne One, Michael Cinco, Val Taguba, Ezra Santos and Christina Barrientos.

My friends love luxury..so what could be the best celebration on my day  than the expensive, haute and royal BURJ AL ARAB?....

                  

The limousine complimented our attire: Black Glam & Haute Sartorial.Knowing them, I was sure they won't disappoint me, and I was very happy they came up at their bests!!!...and more.

Ezra Santos- atelier owner, dubbed as a fashion czar...talented and versatile fashion designer, Santos  epitomize glamor ,and had been chosen number one  Best Dressed 2009.Well traveled, his total look resonates  subtle chic luxury with Hermes as his arm candy.

Celebrity Designer Michael Cinco always creates controversial collection.... film stars, divas and socialites are clamoring to be seen and be photographed  on parties, balls and red carpets  in a Cinco gown...which denotes highly created and skillfully work of arts. Participated the Miami and Dubai Fashion Week 2010 and always on top watch lists......

Bandoix Flores is a constant lover of Haute Couture and good life, his eclectic sense of fashion reflects his flamboyant lifestyle and sense.....uniquely his own.

             

Val Taguba creates feminine form and finely crafted well embellished gowns .Highly work oriented , his new atelier is always abuzz with workloads in glitzy and chic collections.                                                                                                                                                                    

Izhcka Zeta

BUTZ FUENTES

Albert Andrada had been working for ruling royalty for a decade, his works are fresh and elegant fit for princesses and queens.Well traveled and highly educated, his love for fashion and style complimented his urge for luxury and branded toys...like his limited edition Louis Vuitton.

Angelo Estera's edgy yet beautiful pieces of fashion designs, made every piece a much sought after "must wear".Clients love his works, more on young, hip and trendy.

THE TOP 5 RUNWAY SHOWS IN DUBAI 2010

Suffocating humidity couldn’t keep the crowd away at the closing show at WHO'S NEXT IN DUBAI Fashion Event last October 2010. Hushing the buzz of standing- room- only crowd, all eyes were turning toward the runway as slender, tall models began emerging to show the ultra- chic ensemble from a very creative Dubai- based designer, ESSA.

The crowd, which was packed with fashionistas, celebrities and fashion editors, was wowed from the start, enthralled at the vibrant colors, vigorous motifs and eclectic styles of Essa Walla, the prince of Pret- a- Couture.

Meanwhile, after showcasing his first international show at the recent New York Couture Week 2011, EZRA SANTOS participated the STYLE ARABIA Event last month with intricately detailed pieces, then at the end of the show, EZRA SANTOS stood on the runway for seconds, receiving some well-deserved applause. It was a very short appearance for such an outstanding achievement.

Dubai, in less than a decade, made some impact transition from being a breeding ground of fresh talents and unlimited creativity in the Middle East to noted and more established global fashion city. 2010 was a heady mix of glamour and business year, combined with quirky highlights, the Dubai Fashion Week took the major spotlight followed by Who's Next In Dubai, Style Arabia and the lesser fashion events by the dozens..Fashion in Dubai will always be a repertoire of  beauty, delusions of fame, and the vulgarities of excess. Fashion shows have become adrenaline source in our  fashion calendar of make-believe.

FURNE ONE

I AM THE QUEEN!!

Dubai Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2011

With fire and passion, Dubai-based Filipino designer FURNE ONE presented his Spring Collection at  Dubai Fashion Week2011.Unabashed and unapologetic, ONE, bends all rules and refuses to present the predictable, sinous silhouettes walked in the runway, straight from goth fantasy of warriors and queens. But this was no dream. This was a style reality, couture on a rampage.

 FURNE ONE's bondages and gladiators-in-a plexus collection was tamely titled " I AM THE QUEEN!!!..a visual journey to the past, drawing inspiration from the golden age of Queen Elizabeth I. Combining textures, One's wood curved high heels and shoulder pads fused well with its bleached-stained canvas fibers worn out to have a raw feel.

 FURNE ONE's edgy and unconventional elements of fiber twisted threads mixed with Swarovski crystals displayed exuberance in his hand embroidered gowns. The clever use of tye-and-dye graphic elements dashed with subtle shimmer complemented the models covered in canvas gallows.

photo credits: VANSHIKA MEHTA

EZRA SANTOS

D'OR AFRIQUE

STYLE ARABIA

EZRA SANTOS presented a fashionable and fabulous gowns, some were in short flirty frocks with elaborate bead works in shimmering Swarovski crystals and components and full swingy skirts cut a flattering silhouette in italian tulle. Beautifully cut, outfits were undeniably painted a pretty picture.

The laser cuts in an elephant motif adorned the voluminous skirt in beige tulle with bodices embellished with glitters. Weaved tulle in drop shouldered tight tops, jewelry set ornaments displayed the collections high attention to shimmers. 

PHOTO CREDIT: DUBAI MASALA

ESSA WALLA

OH! SAUVAGE

WHO'S NEXT IN DUBAI

ESSA's traditional and contemporary reference is inherent to its ethos. His inextricable link of sleek and structure define ESSA's inherent sensibility. That, his art is beyond the physical. That its sensibilities in something more unreachable and inscrutable, the mystique of which is known only to him.

 ESSA's aesthetics come from his passion and his creative unconventional mind, radical and a sweeping statement. He has this gift, his languid ability to transform mere fabrics to amazing designs, taking it to a whole new level. His irresistible visuals sizzle the mind, very textural , sensual and experimental. He put humor into his clothes, he makes ordinary things seems extraordinary. 

Essa's " Oh Sauvage "Collection at WHO'S NEXT IN DUBAI Fashion Event 2010 was his global travel, his Amazonian chic with Parisian flair , a boho-hippie collage in color riots.

 PHOTO CREDIT: STYLEMONGER

ZAREENA YOUSUF

MARRAKECH EVENING
Dubai World Trade Center

Zareena Couture presented last night October 10, 2010  the  Haute Couture Collection 2011 at the World Trade Center Dubai. Elegantly crafted jalabiyas with western flavor strutted the super fabulous runway.
 Zarrena Yousuf is an Emarati designer and owns the label Fasateen, whose works grace celebrities, fashionistas and royalties.

 The bejeweled kaftans locally called jalabiyas, maintain harmonious balance between traditional and western influence. Inspired by the Moroccan ethnic silver and gold jewelries, the breathtaking pieces exuded luxury.

  Chiffons and crepes were draped and pleated and inserted to waist and bodice. The colors in rainbow palette dazzled the exuberance of arabisque art pieces.

FALGUN and SHANE PEACOCK

DUBAI FASHION WEEK Spring/Summer 2011

 

Drawing inspiration from animal patterns, Falguni and Shane Peacock’s loud Spring/Summer line demanded attention and held attention in its celebratory tribute to life.The designer duo indulged in a process of layering digital prints over one another to result in a uniquely glamorous look. The collection was set off by some of Dubai’s well-known socialite women, demonstrating its easy wearability.

Ready-to-wear outfits alternated with avant-garde creations containing innovative shoulder pads and the generous use of leather. Short dresses in yellow, nude pink, deep blue and crimson were interwoven with the liberal use of black that added to the collection’s timeless appeal.Bold prints on short dresses and hard-wear dresses featured prints resembling bees, scales and tiger stripes, all animals on the brink of extinction.

PHILIPPINES' TOP 5 RUNWAY SHOWS 2010

They gathered together for the Red Cross' Charity Gala Show, the society's upper crust, the glitterati, the moneyed and the famous, who conspicuously and ostentatiously attended "War and Roses", FURNE ONE'S Haute Couture 2011 at Shangrila Makati. Older ladies with sprayed helmets of hair and cascades of diamonds were dressed to the nines, next to women in their late twenties in five-inch stilettos with Balenciaga clutches and Chanel totes. As one famous celebrity dropped her BlackBerry into her HERMES Birkin bag that lay at her feet, models began marching FURNE ONE'S armour dresses inspired by Queen Elizabeth I.

These are unsettled times for everyone in the business of luxury, but the challenges facing this uncertain world of economic crunch, are as unique as the one million peso hand-beaded ball gown embellished with Swarovski brilliants and semi precious stones, sashaying at the Philippine Fashion Week Holiday Collection 2011 by Dubai- based designer, MICHAEL CINCO.
With money in retreat, its traditional customers aging or dying, and critics increasingly carping about its irrelevance, the couture economy, always delicate, now is more precarious than ever, leaving many to wonder whether there is a customer base left for couture.

Gone are the high-class tastes of the old Manila's finer set, the blue-blooded ladies who lunched and hosted benefits and social events in couture daywear having been replaced by new-world of pret'- a- porter and China's excess from Divisoria to Greenhills.
For this very few moneyed class, it’s less about the luxuriousness of wearing exquisite handmade to-order creations and more about conspicuous consumption and making museums out of their closets. But couture is much more than a product. It’s a creative branding, a marketing strategy, it's an image. Lovers of Couture don’t bring the much coveted piece into publicity and recognition to maintain its allure.

To call couture a business has long seemed unstinting. The art of handmaking and custom-fitting intricate one-of-a-kind garments surely would have died out two decades ago. The diaspora of creative and talanted Filipino designers to the Middle East, particularly Jeddah and Dubai, with international trained craftspeople, made the Pinoy designers more aggressive, more artistic and more knowledgeable to high stitching of elaborate gowns, sometimes loosely translated to Haute Couture. Filipino designers abroad became the "masters" and on the top of a newly created fashion food chain, having a staff of trained embroiderers from India and the subcontinent, pattern-cutters-tailors from Europe and Philippines.


MICHAEL CINCO
MADAME BUTTERFLY
Philippine Fashion Week 2011


The most mesmerizing ambience show ever this year, MICHAEL CINCO continued his impalpable dream. Inspired by the classic 'Madame Butterfly', the 45 piece- collection flown in from Dubai, was eight months to finish. His embroidery staff worked day and night to create a dazzling embellishments of crystals and semi -precious stones. Soft and diaphanous, the ensemble of voluminous skirts complimented the vivid color- mix of iridescent Swarovski crystals in pure abundance from bodice to skirt in butterfly patterns. Highly knowlegeable in fine stitching and impeccable finishing, Cinco's trained staff laboriously moulage every piece,
producing a feminine silhouette of luxury. The "Madame Butterfly Show " raised the bar of haute in couture and luxury, Michael Cinco's finest.

 FURNE ONE
WAR and ROSES
Red Cross Charity Gala Show
Shangrila Makati


Known for his grand and elaborate shows, FURNE ONE's War and Roses was the most fabulous event of the year. Except for the sliding of the models incident, the show deserved high praises, from production to collection, it was Parisian Show in Philipines. The ONE& ONLY FURNE ONE'S aesthetics are innate, a veteran A-lister and award winning designer, his Dubai's runway shows top the fashion's most wanted.Furne One created edgy and modern concept of women with strong attitude. His beige, nude silhouettes in well-crafted short dresses and gowns displayed his no nonsense know how in the industry. Furne One is unbeatable in runway....a master, an illusionist and a fabulous artist. War and Roses showed his edge.

CARY SANTIAGO
Flight of Fancy/Plumage
METRO BRIDE SHOW
MARRIOTT MANILA


CARY SANTIAGO is a meticulous artist-designer, his "coutureness" is unbearable. Santiago's push-to-the-wall love and dedication to HAUTE COUTURE is his personal quest to perfection. Cary Santiago resurfaced the dying if not dead COUTURE industry in the Philippines. Stubbornly arrogant in his convictions, his dream was vindicated and continued doing couture amidst bland and quirky ready made garments. Santiago's collection at his METRO BRIDE SHOW were coveted pieces that exhibit the finest in stitching , more than art....its art immitating art.

 INNO SOTTO
INNO 30-20-10
The Cultural Center of the Philippines
MANILA

Thirty years in the business has made INNO SOTTO a "PREMIERE CLASSE" amongst the fashion-conscious and the fashion elite. Specialising in exclusive haute couture originals, a Sotto creation spells affluence and class. His sartorial focus is a non-stop quest for producing the finest elegant pieces that conjure a feast for the senses. Bringing to the fore a refreshing insight into his thirty years collection founded with a palatte sated with colours and a balanced blend of symmetric shapes and forms, INNO SOTTO presented a vision that moves from glimmering flesh tones to delicious peaches. Then, his "noir" pieces move sinuously into vibrant tones ending their journey in an unparalleled blend of silk chiffons that cascade flawlessly down the runway like harmonious limericks.And while his signature all-out celebration of all that is glamorous takes you on a passage to all that’s chic, he also references his love for the finer things.
INNO SOTTO'S 30-2010 wondrous creations are a testament to his mastery, and a gift to the fashion industry.

 CESAR GAUPO
PHILIPPINE FASHION WEEK S/S 2011
SMX MANILA


The grand finale of the PFW S/S 2011, GAUPO's neat and precise collection showed the veteran's mastery in high-end designs and techniques. His fabrics and color combinations  were great achievements, a "soft tailoring"- a chief trend in international fashion, from VALENTINO to MARC JACOBS ..lean tailored look.
Cesar Gaupo's sophisticated style combined with a hint of  feminine flair, made his collection  outrageously popular. This trend embraces understated, elegant pieces like subtly structured gowns, ruffled blouses and delicate cap-sleeved dresses. All classy cuts, Gaupos fashionable, comfortable and clean-cut urban looks work best , although the tailoring is evident in these garments, it is relaxed and flowing, clearly indicating that it belongs to a GAUPO silhouette.