Young hunk stars calling me ‘Tita’ makes me feel like a cougar
WHEN IT COMES to glitter, it is hard to match Dubai, the megalopolis of fantasy and shopping mecca of worldly goods. Here is where only the best of the best designers can flourish, and it is only fitting that Pinoys have done well in this Middle Eastern pleasure palace.In fact, five Pinoy fashion designers have made their stellar mark among the wealthy cloaked Middle Eastern women of Dubai. How fitting that all could be engaged to show off their fashion panache at the Bench biennial— Bench Uncut Show.
And so it came to pass that retail giant Ben Chan brought home the fab five— Cary Santiago, Furne One, Val Taguba, Ezra Santos and Michael Cinco—to bring about a Bench global theme for the much-awaited, sold-out, totally awesome show.
My designer date, Rajo Laurel, made sure we had ample time to mingle and find our places just before front-liner Dingdong Dantes opened the show. An overflowing feast for the senses kept the packed coliseum screaming as gorgeous, hot models wearing provocative outfits teased the audience.
Bench’s Pinoy Lab segment began the show, after LA dancers livened up the audience with their high-energy moves. Incredible director Robby Carmona collaborated with set designer Gino Gonzales and created a magnificent show with major props and production numbers for each of the featured countries.
Other featured glitterati included comedienne Pokwang, who looked like an exotic bird entertaining the crowd. Her outfit was my favorite as it was impactful without having to show much skin. Check out Shannen’s blog, shannen143.wordpress. com, for more photos.
So many young hunk stars were at the show but I could only identify a few, like Gerald Anderson and Enchong Dee. Even poster boy Jake Cuenca is the son of one of my Assumption classmates. They are all so young that they call me “Tita Tessa.” Gosh that makes me feel like a cougar.
But the night belonged to the Dubai-honed five. Cary Santiago cleverly transformed the traditional terno into avant-garde designs with gilded accessories. Meanwhile, Furne One’s assignment was themed futuristic China. Top male model Rock Ji walked in his Bench undies and metallic vest.
The roars became louder with the lively Brazilian section of designer Val Taguba. The highlight, or is it lowlight, featured Wendell Ramos’ butt. From where I sat, Wendell looks firmer and tighter than two years ago, but maybe it was just the stage angle. Designer Ezra Santos was in charge of Africa 2020, with a “full Monty” of models, thankfully dramatically lit to preserve the show’s R rating.
The finale featured beauteous Georgina Wilson in a Russia-inspired segment. Swarovski-beading designer Michael Cinco had her emerge from a Faberge-like giant gilded egg. After not eating for three weeks, Georgina was just perfect—truly a star for the tsars.
Bulgari’s 10th year
Staying in glitter mode, there was more twinkling and sparkling at the 10th anniversary of Bulgari at trendy Establishment at The Fort, featuring its most successful collection, B.zero1. The highlight was the new Anish Kapoor ring for B.zero1.
Establishment was transformed into a lounge-cum-exhibit showcasing the evolution of B.zero1. The entrance displayed the very first rings and jewels of the collection, such as the original B.zero1 ring in yellow and white gold as well as the well-known yellow gold and steel bangle. As guests walked into the amber-lit hall, they were met with the star of the night, the Anish Kapoor ring.
This is the first time that a Bulgari creation has been interpreted by a contemporary and prominent international artist. Kapoor’s contribution features an original combination of pink gold and reflecting steel surfaces. All I can think is now, my husband Dennis will have more options for his Christmas gift for me.
Bulgari Manila GM Mario Katigbak made sure the stylish, chic crowd was well-watered with Piper Heidsieck champagne, Remy Martin, Grey Goose and Bombay Sapphire. No wonder Bulgari means luxury!
Gracing the event were Bulgari dignitaries Wei Ling Wong and Adam Chang, who got to meet many of their customers that night. The B.zero1 collection is available at Bulgari boutiques in Greenbelt 4 and 6750 Ayala Shopping Arcade.
New Samsung phones
And what better luxe item to complement the glitter than the latest hot mobile units—the Samsung Galaxy S and Samsung Wave. The Korean electronics giant has just launched the latest for the techno-savvy, two phones with ultra-intelligent tech, breakthrough speed and crystal-clear reception.
The Globe team was in full force to support the launch at White Space, headed by marketing honchos Glenn Glinoga, Debbi Obias and Cathy Santamaria. A launch promo for Globe subs gets users the Samsung Galaxy for less than P3,000.
Samsung dignitaries Michael Cheon and Coco Domingo pulled out all stops with a sit-down dinner by Gaita Fores. Guest speakers Aaron Atayde and Rovilson Fernandez took the stage to highlight the incredible, best-in-class features of both the Samsung Wave and Samsung Galaxy S.
Mobile phones have become integral to our daily lives so Samsung’s philosophy of the “Smart Life” has made the units easier and faster to use. With applications to instantly connect to Facebook and Twitter, we can constantly be in touch.
At the end of the event, more than 30 Samsung phones were raffled off to the guests. Now that’s the way to add a touch of glitter to our lives.
E-mail the author at seaprincess@inquirer.com.ph
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