Atin Ito First Filipino Community Newspaper in Ontario
Dubbed “Criselda: A Journey Through Flower Fields,” the exhibit showcases the designer’s legacy in fashion and serves as a charity for Bantay Bata 163
Crislda Lontok may have passed away, but her legacy in fashion lives on. For over 40 years, she was known as the go-to designer of Manila’s upper echelon, creating pieces that suit the many shapes of women with her penchant for flattering silhouettes and love for floral prints. But apart from her elegant dustcoats, classic tunics, and creaseless ensembles for her namesake brand for luxury retailer Rustan’s, the late designer also crafted pieces that could rival the haute couture creations seen in Paris. This treasure trove of unworn personal outfits and wearable masterpieces is currently on display for the public to see at Rustan’s Gallerie, located on the second floor of Rustan’s Makati.
‘A Journey Through Flower Fields’
Dubbed “Criselda: A Journey Through Flower Fields,” the retrospective exhibit celebrates the designer’s life, artistry, and passion for charity. Like a beautiful spring garden, the Rustan’s Gallerie is decked with all sorts of blooms and an enchanting foundation. All of that provides the perfect backdrop for her designs that are timeless, ultra-feminine, and, definitely, full of joy. Among our favorites that are on display are the dreamy A-line bodice gown in cream silk gazar with floral appliques, the ethereal off-white duchess satin long-sleeve gown adorned with crystal embellishments, and the charming black ball gown with pink carnation made more dramatic with origami sleeves. Also on display are select jewelry pieces that will make any basic look a stellar one.
After the exhibit’s week-long run at the store, the pieces will be put to an auction hosted by León Gallery. The proceeds from this auction will be dedicated to Criselda’s beloved charity, Bantay Bata 163, adding a profound layer of meaning to this glamorous affair, where fashion meets a noble cause.
“This is a happy event. It is a tribute to Criselda,” says Zenaida “Nedy” Tantoco, chairman and CEO of Rustan Commercial Corporation. “This will give people a chance to own an original Criselda outfit and it will help the children of Bantay Bata.”
Future of the Criselda brand
Criselda, the brand, continues to provide pieces to its dedicated patrons at Rustan’s stores with the help of noted Filipino fashion designer Inno Sotto. For over two years, the designer has been overseeing the brand’s creative direction.
“Criselda was mysterious. She loved dressing up and I like that kind of woman,” Inno tells Manila Bulletin Lifestyle. “She usually came to me for certain occasions.”
According to him, the brand’s latest pieces will feature new prints leaning toward modern art, while still retaining the classic silhouettes Criselda was known for. Nedy also shared the possibility of working with the late designer’s granddaughter, who is practicing design in Paris, to lead the brand in the future.
The “Criselda: A Journey Through Flower Fields” exhibit runs until Sep. 20 with the invitation-only auction taking place on Sep. 21 in Rustan’s Makati. — John Legaspi
*****
Credit belongs to: www.mb.com.ph
