With his newest line of wedding gowns, visionary couture designer Cary Santiago spreads his wings -- literally. The collection, aptly called Aviary 2010, was inspired by the innate beauty of birds, particularly the Philippine eagle named Pag-asa, which Santiago said is "the most beautiful and magnificent creature I had ever seen.
Each piece is voluminous in treatment but light in material. Santiago used chiffon, silk tulles and solstice lace as he is fascinated by the look of feathers, but employed plisse (intentionally wrinkled, pleated or puckered fabric) rather heavily to resemble life-size origami art."That (Pag-asa) put me permanently in awe of birds in general," he said, adding, "That (Aviary 2010) was my biggest break in Philippine fashion.
Sharp edges were contrasted by flowing fabrics and beautiful draping, resulting to a combination of sexy, dramatic and romantic in Santiago's artistry. His clothes, and their inspiration, are a flirtation between the dangers of 2 opposing forces, the designer shared.
His palette sticks to what he calls true couture colors -- oyster blue, blush, nudes and greys -- a break from the usual pearl white wedding gown."I want the viewer to interpret the clothes his own way: this looks like a hawk to one, or an owl to another!" Santiago said.
He continued, "In this collection, I merely suggest. I want to ignite your imagination."
All creations had an air of elegance and old-world glamour, especially as these were worn by veteran models and young society ladies.
The piéce de rèsistance of Santiago's Aviary 2010 collection were 3 wedding gowns -- a white bustier dress with a full ball skirt, and 2 gowns with mermaid silhouettes and embellished with plisse. Santiago's show, which was held in celebration of Metro Weddings magazine's 10th anniversary, also featured a presentation by one of his protégés, young designer John Herrera.
He took his inspiration from the sea with a combination of white and grey short dresses and full ball skirts spiced up by silken cutout scales and flowers.