Secret Garden by Binky Pitogo (Wedding Belles Fashion Show)

The moment I was invited to participate in this bridal event, I already knew what I wanted to do. I wanted to showcase a collection that would clearly show my personal design aesthetic. I wanted to use a nicely printed fabric since I've always been so attracted to beautiful prints, and matched with crochet details instead of the usual bead work. Although the designs just came along while I was already in the process, the garden theme I had in mind was clear from the very start. I'm lucky to have found the perfect fabric. Without second thought I picked this fabric the moment I saw it. I also designed matching accessories to complete the look of my models so I had these gloves and extra flowers crocheted. Aside from the accessories, I designed matching cover-ups for the bridesmaids and cape for the bride to keep that conservative look. The bride's cape also served as the train of her gown.

I feel so lucky having been given the opportunity to participate in this event. My preparations were not as complete as the others since it was my first time but I definitely learned from it. I had this chance to push myself again and I'm proud of all the hardwork I put in to come up with all this. Of course, I would not be able to do all these without the creative hands of those who worked for me. And I thank the Lord for all the blessings and great opportunities that have come my way. I'm also very thankful and happy that I have my family and friends to back me up in everything. And of course, to my gorgeous models who came with me all the way from the other side of Manila to Alabang. I also would like to thank the organizers of Wedding Belles, SoFA, my fellow designers from SoFA, Jing Monis Salon and all the other sponsors. THANK YOU all and may God bless you all always! :)

Now, meet my gorgeous models!!

My cutie flower girl, Princess Espinosa

 

My bestfriend, the bridesmaid, Nychill Lalugan.

My friend since kindergarten, the maid of honor, Au Sitaca.

 My tita, the mother of the bride, Jewella Lavilla.

And my bride, also my friend since high school, Joannah Gonzales.

 And yours truly, with the bride.. :)

Me with the my models.. :)

 

All photos by my uncle, Jose Maria Lavilla

Wedding Belles Booth

Here are the pictures from our booth at the Wedding Belles Bridal Fair held last Saturday and Sunday (Nov. 5-6, 2011) in Alabang Town Center. This is actually my first time to join a bridal exhibit so this experience is another wonderful learning experience for me. I shared the same booth with SoFA and 5 more SoFA alumni designers. I'll post the pictures of my collection for the fashion show later. So please check back again later :)

Some of the accessories I made..

Crochet, pearls, and braid details..

 

My spot in our booth. :)

 With my fellow designers, Kim Palma, Noelle Llave, Kaye Morales, and Charinson Balalilhe. :)

What I Wore:

sequined and pleated top from Singapore,

bodycon skirt from Zara,

pumps from CMG,

bag from Charles and Keith

Wedding Bells Ringing Soon

Remember the fashion show I've been talking about in my previous posts? Yes' I'm only a month away from the event and I'm only getting more and more nervous as I get a day closer to it. This is going to be my first fashion show so that's enough reason for me to feel this way. I'll be participating in this bridal event along with a hundred other exhibitors from different fields, all wedding related. I, along with 5 other SoFA (School of Fashion and the Arts) graduates and other designers, will be having a fashion show for the event. For more details about the event, please visit Weddings at Work or like Wedding Belles in Facebook. :)

To just give you an idea of what's in the works, here are my pegs/inspirations.. I can't wait to show you all the whole collection once it's done but I'll have to wait until the event happens.. I'm holding my excitement too! Haha! :)

Images from Ruche

Images from Polyvore

 

Two of my previous works (you've probably seen these images in my old posts). My projects while I was still a student at the School of Fashion and the Arts (SoFA). :)

Anne Hathaway in her Valentino gown. :)