And now for some Valera.

Photo of the designer via http://firstfilipino.blogspot.com/2007/08/ramon-valera.html


"Don't always follow what magazines say is the style." -Ramon Valera

While looking at possible resources for my thesis a few months back, I came across this one particular book about Filipino designer Ramon Valera. Now, Ramon Valera is perhaps the Philippines' answer to Cristobal Balenciaga and Yves Saint Laurent. An icon in Philippine couture, he was named a National Artist for Fashion (Posthumous) in 2006, and was the first Filipino designer to be given such distinction. A self-taught designer who is known for his superb skill in draping and construction, his designs are a cross between architecture and could be considered as art pieces on their own. The book chronicles the designer's career as well as photos and sketches of some of his work. Below are a few photos which I took.


A sample of a Ramon Valera terno.


Imelda Marcos wearing another Valera designed terno.


Back detail of another terno.


I particularly like the silhouette and contrast of this dress.


Love this dress.


A Valera wedding gown from the 60's.




Sample of beadworks.






Fashion sketches.


Found a copy being sold for P 2,225.00 at a local bookstore. Time to save up for this one. hehehehehe :)