Afterglow

THERE is a kind of beauty in nature that often goes unnoticed, much less appreciated.

It usually comes out either when people are too busy to pay attention or are just too exhausted to mind even such a spectacular vision.

It is the broad high arch or cascading light of whitish or rosy traces appearing in the sky for a short time after sunset. Indeed, afterglow is an interesting phenomenon presumed to be a lovely end of the day, the fading light that remains when the source of energy leaves.

Afterglow is also referred to as the comfortable feeling that follows a pleasant experience. Then again, it can also be considered as a lingering impression and satisfaction of past glory or success. This time around, an inventive designer goes out of her way to introduce yet another definition.

Afterglow now pertains to a collection of clothes that glow beautifully even in the dark as made possible by the craftsmanship of Barbie Alvez. Originally, she prepared this when she joined the “Look of Style Awards 2011” competition, wherein she garnered a special award.

Coming up with a literally brilliant concept did not just happen out of the blue. It was instead rooted from what would otherwise be an ordinary incident.

She was cleaning out her closet when she fatefully bumped into an old pair of heels made of transparent orange plastic. When it was accidentally hit by black lighting, voila! It glowed, and so did her idea bulb.

Barbie then thought of using the discovery and incorporating that into her collection, going by the theme of modern and stylish tech (the “tech notes”). And though getting the concept to materialize posed quite a challenge, with combined touches of ingenuity
and hard work, she was able to finish what she had in mind.

After some time of speculation, Barbie realized that reflector tapes were the key components all along. But those are only supplemental to the main components in her design, like the Mikado satin and stretch mesh tulle she used for the overall bodice of the dresses.

As she went on, she spared a few moments to experiment, using a little of the “tech notes” on the fabrics. Eventually, all her efforts paid off and turned out into what she would later call “fabric braiding.” Three literally flashing frocks emerged excellently, admirable in their own right.

One of the pieces on display is a knee-length dress, the gleaming accents of which stream from the waist up to its divine-looking, jewel collar. Both sides of the dress are made of sheer materials that seem to entice imagination.

The second number is a tube mini-dress whose glossy attachments are remarkably spread all over. Slashed and meshed structuring add more allure to the sides while creating subtle tease to the neckline. It is hard to decide which part of the dress holds more interest.

The last article in this collection is a shift dress that flaunts quite a low V-neck.

Its luminous details are laid down in a symmetrical pattern, while on both sides appear a somewhat sheer sensuality. Talk about utter splendor and see this dress on the ramp.

“This collection was and is certainly one that I’m most proud of,” shared Barbie.

Well, not only did she win best interpretation of the theme through it, but she aslo has ultimately cultivated further of her creativity and resourcefulness.