Here’s a humble-brag to start a Happy New Year. Over the years, fashion provocateurs have graciously gifted me with coffee-table, hardcover and biographical books. The volumes allow me to have a grasp on the history of fashion and the fascinating people that make it thrive. With gratitude, the following are…
Jullie Y. Daza
Once upon a time in a section of the ancient city there lived the most famous fashion designers. Around Remedios Circle, on its fringes or blocks away from one another, they toiled with their cotton, taffeta, lace, and tulle, and nobody bothered to ask why Malate was The Place. Why, even Myther the Tailor, the self-named “Duke of Adriatico,” was drawn to that sweet spot.
At one point, Mayor Fred Lim was taunted by busybodies in media to declare Malate a “fashion zone” to honor Filipino couturiers, the ones who had tickled the imaginations of Imelda Marcos’ titled friends and the occasional visitor from New York, London, Rome, whether model, socialite, or photographer.
Ben Farrales
Popular Filipino fashion designer Ben Farrales, the first Filipino designer to present a fashion show at the Manila Hotel (1959) and Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. (1984), has passed away. He was 88.
"It was an honor, Mang Ben Farrales …rest peacefully in God's loving arms," sa
Published March 6, 2021, 10:22 PM
Ben Farrales
Popular Filipino fashion designer Ben Farrales, the first Filipino designer to present a fashion show at the Manila Hotel (1959) and Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. (1984), has passed away. He was 88.
“It was an honor, Mang Ben Farrales …rest peacefully in God’s loving arms,” said former beauty queen-turned-actress Marina Benipayo on Facebook March 6.
“Rest in peace, Mang Ben. You always had kind words for me, as young Manila designer,” wrote Paolo Basa.
“Journey on…. I know the angels are waiting for you to make heaven a beautiful happy place…. I love you and thank you for so many blessings and lessons in life!” said fashion designer Ogee Atos.