Friday, July 18, 2008 Angelic whispers By Clint Holton P. Potestas
EVERY design he executes increases the craving he has for something new and modern. And this so called devotion for contemporary ideas has lured him into understanding the most radical of things.
An angel could probably have touched him.
Novelty dominates in the latest collection of fashion designer Mark Anthony So. At every step of his sketches, he aims to create original style that best express his interpretation of fashion.
“Fashion for me is something everybody can enjoy and relate to. Something that defines them: their culture, style and persona,” explains So.
Though exposed to all styles, he admits that wedding outfits are “more marketable” since the sacrament of matrimony can be celebrated anytime of the year. They can also be a form of inheritance from mother to daughter.
“My wedding gowns are perfect for a modern bride who is gutsy and (is) willing to experiment for a new twist.”
So he mostly draws inspiration from life size statues of angels who figuratively descend from the heavens to guide every stroke of his hand, whispering good intentions.
But when he is utilizing different “shades” of white, silver and ivory, the pristine shores of Bohol greatly influence the design concept. His delivery of the dresses seemingly resembles the fine grains of sand in Panglao, Bohol.
“I use ivory because it spells elegance and sophistication. White sand beaches of Bohol inspire me because they look serene and pure,” says So.
Silhouettes are figure hugging yet he still can create cut that could obey all body types. With this slant, more voluptuous girls can wear fabrics like the mixture of silk gazaar, Indian frosted tulle, jersey knits, and lace.
“Filipinos in general are very much into eclectic dressing simply because of our weather and culture,” observes So.
Mark Anthony So has affirmed that fashion is also a struggle that requires a strong grip of faith and whispers from winged guardians.
