NOW, with the economy in a nosedive, he’s brought the clever, potentially budget-saving concept back for all, and the result is one of his strongest-looking pieces in seasons. And if he has to dig them up just to keep your interest, he won’t think twice.

Well, not really shoveling the ruby up from the ground, but drawing inspiration from this fire-tone jewel—Mark So, who answered the call of fashion design at any early age, transmits the beauty of the stone into a series of couture outfits.

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Inspired by the glamour of Hollywood’s Oscar Awards night, So showed some adeptness by delivering fine electric pleating on the luxurious silk shantung.

From the look of things, one can identify his dedication to high fashion and his constant aim in mind: To give birth to new things—details, cuts, materials. Take a hint from his sequined Italian tulle and jersey in this all-red collection.

“The sewing technique is very basic. What is new about it is the mix of ruby-like crystals and laser-carved jewel appliqués,” says So, who is a resident designer of Harley Ruedas on Jones Ave.

And whatever inspiration he may take, he remains loyal to his philosophy in making clothes: practical and wearable.

But in designing for his Cebuano clients, he can raise the bar a little higher, saying: “The Cebuano fashionistas are very modern and experimental. My designs are very much ‘at home’ with the Cebuano palate.”

After all, home is where the heart is, like international designer Donna Karan who considers her sense of patriotism an influence to her designs. Being a woman, she adds, helps her understand the basic concern of her female clients.

“Embrace the moment with strength and security.

“I have presented a day-into-night system of dressing, based on quintessential luxe pieces, and a new elongated, sexy, sculpted and shouldered silhouette.

“For a woman, by a woman,” Karan says. This is salvation for women of all shapes and size.

Nicole Phelps, fashion writer of Vogue magazine, comments: “Karan only abandoned the bold shoulder to reproduce on the runway a look that she herself has been wearing for years.

Made from satin jersey suspended from a necklace of leather-wrapped rings, the halter-style ‘cold shoulder’ dress—as she calls it—has been battle-tested not only for sex appeal, but also for ease. Who wouldn’t want to slip into a uniform like that?”