SOUTHERN INVASION

NOTE: As promised in my previous blog entry, here's a follow-up on our successful event in Cebu where SM Accessories launched its quest for fashion supremacy, this time in the southern part of the country.


Reviewing the pages of Philippine history books, all of us would have known that more than 3 centuries ago, Cebu had its first taste of invasion as depicted in the historic battle of Mactan where Lapu-Lapu triumphed over the conquistador Magellan. 300 years back to the present, Cebu witnessed yet another invasion, the arrival of the biggest fashion accessories brand in the country – SM ACCESSORIES. And there was no repelling this time around.

Following its successful media launch in Manila, SM ACCESSORIES turned its target on prime Cebu (and on its southern counterparts in Visayas & Mindanao) and unleashed a style revolution with an event held at the Radisson Blue Hotel that carried the promise of bringing nothing but the best of fashion to one of the Philippines’ most distinguished design capitals. “With SM ACCESSORIES, it’s not just about having yet another option for shoppers. It’s about getting the best accessories regardless of your sense of style, or your purchasing power,” explained John Kenner Chua, VP of SM Accessories.

True enough, the launch became home to one of the most exciting displays of accessories that Cebu has ever seen. From the men’s to the ladies’ accessories, all the way down to the colorful pieces in the trademark character shops and children’s department – SM ACCESSORIES walked the talk with its promise of “fashion for all”. Even buyers with more expensive tastes got their fix with SM ACCESSORIES and its collections from over 75 designer labels – the largest in the country to date.

The SM ACCESSORIES launch was also attended by local VIPs, indicating Cebu’s presence as an emerging fashion capital in Central and Southern Philippines. Among the notable personalities present were Rosebud Sala, Marissa Fernan, Bernie Aboitiz, Chary Aboitiz, Nene Garcia, Margot Osmeña, Arcy Gayatin, and Philip Rodriguez. For celebrity models, local creative talents also lent more sparkle to the event as Cebu/Dubai-based designer du jour, Cary Santiago, provided some of his exquisite gowns, with footwear by notable Cebu designer Shandar.

According to post-show reviews, the event was a huge success, even better, grander, more coordinated than the Manila production. With MGP styling for the show's more than 50+ models, and my partner George Palmiano as show director, we'd like to thank the whole AMC Department. Our gratitude as well to Adfolio, the whole technical & production team, and to our assistants Sheila & Grace.

FORWARD MARCH. A platoon of models trooped in all-out military-inspired accessories during the opening segment of the show.

MOMS & KIDS. Noted Cebu socialites glamourize the stage with their cute kids.

SMELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT. Cebu teen TV personalities put their best show.

GODDESSES ON HIGH. Cebu beauty queens dazzle while wearing Cary Santiago creations and jewelry from SM Accessories.

ROYAL COUPLE. The dashing son of Cebu City mayor together with his red-hot girlfriend in an Arcy Gayatin dress.

CEBU'S FASHION FORCE. Albet Arriba of Fashion Council of Cebu, Philip Rodriguez and Protacio Empaces attended the event.

LADIES WHO LUNCH. Carmen Campbell, Rosebud Sala and Marvie Sala

WOMEN POWER. Jaja Rama, Janine Taylor, Tamsin Booth and Carol Sarte

HAPPY TOGETHER. The Ugarte Family.

TEAM SM. Evelyn Lim of SM Cebu with husband Dr. Pek Eng Lim and Mr. John Kenner Chua of SM Accessories

PROJECT RUNWAY. Cebu young designers Philip Tampus and Lord Maturan.

MAKE HEADLINES. Haide Acuna, News Anchor of TV Patrol Central Visayas

NAUTICAL QUEEN. Bernie Aboitiz

FOR THE LOVE OF FASHION. Cebu's young creative talents with Mr. John Kenner Chua, VP for SM Accessories