Images taken by Aniken dela Cruz

On a spectacular night at the Shangri-La Hotel’s Grand Ballroom, Filipino couturier Jor-el Espina bared his heart and soul in a sixty piece collection that he had never ventured to do before. Pearls, an excessive amount of fringe, rich brocade, molten gold, structured corsets, shiny gauze, sequins, and lamé, along with see-through pina, took center stage at the very end of the PFID gala night, where, much like the awardees, Jor-el’s work shone in the spotlight.

Taking inspiration from the old-world glamour that captured our attention, Espina aimed to transport viewers to another realm where jewel tones and metallics reign supreme. “I consider this collection as my playground, a bird’s eye view of my imagination, a place where I invite you to join me in exploring the beauty of the past and the allure of the present.”