KADALISAYAN... kabusilakan... kapayapaan... at kalayaan... Sa mahabang panahon ng paghangad at paglikha... kababaihan, nandito ka! Mga natatanging likha, hinubog tayo... hinubog tungo sa paglalahad ng malikhaing isip. Ang Obra ni Rian Fernandez... (introduction to the fashion show)

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The celebration of Independence Day has come a long way from tradition. Nowadays, young people are taking part in the celebrations, and making a mark. One outstanding celebration of Independence Day happened at the SM City Baguio on June 13, 2009 when young designer, Rian Fernandez, launched the first Kasuotan: Viva Filipiniana!

In a fashion show that incorporated Filipiniana fashion of then and now, Rian celebrated not only the Philippines' Independence Day, he also celebrated the Filipino woman! The traditional terno took on a look that every Filipina would be proud to wear.

With well- placed accents like simple lines and elegant beadwork, the gowns flattered the body without desecrating the traditional design of the terno. Even the traditional accessories like the veil and the panuelo were given an appearance. He made these accessories look so good, one would hope it would make a fashion comeback.

Aiming to promote the Filipina today and to showcase the evolution of Filipino fashion, Kasuotan: Viva Filipiniana is Rian's first solo fashion show. In this first show, Filipiniana clothes from Onesimus, Bobby Novenario and Kultura Filipino also took to the runway in a special segment. This event, organized by him with the help of the SM City Baguio Marketing team (where he used to work), will henceforth be held annually.

In a city teeming with many young designers, Rian stands out with his creatively simple approach to design. He chooses his fabrics well, and blends color, lines and shape to form a chic creation. At 24, he has taken his inspiration one step up and fully incorporates it in his work. Aside from his mom who is a fashionista, Rian has found inspiration in the magnificence of the Philippines that he describes as "…likened to a majestic queen sitting on a pot of gold, with its lush natural resources, culture and tradition... the Philippines is more than just the Pearl of the Orient Seas..."

Without a doubt, this young blood will go a long way in the fashion industry. Like Vera Wang and Rusty Lopez, two designers he looks up to, his mark will be imprinted in every facet of fashion. And with a goal that goes: "I want to make it big someday. I want to dress up influential people. I want to be an advocate of the environment as reflected through my creations. I want to inspire people and other young designers to use their talents not only for themselves but also for society", he is on the right track to fashion success!