BFWP Presents Pat Santos, Albert Andrada, and Val Taguba

By Vennette Lailani Seprado

Wedding Essentials, the country’s premier wedding magazine, just celebrated its fifteenth anniversary with Tadhana 2019— a dazzling two-day bridal affair in partnership with the iconic Manila Hotel now on its fourth run.

Pat Santos, Albert Andrada, and Val Taguba spearheaded the very first BFWP show held at the Tent City of The Manila Hotel on the second day of Tadhana 2019. The soft, beachy themed runway of the bridal show the previous day was transformed into an enchanted forest with lush foliage and moody chandeliers through the collaboration of Gary Dacanay, Randy Lazaro, and Amante Fleurs.

Supermodel Marina Benipayo opened the show for Pat Santos in a striking gold ensemble of 3D lace and sequined fabric setting the tone for the rest of the designer’s collection. Santos presented a luxurious collection of bridalwear, formal wear, and groomswear characterized by lots of gold, opulent brocade, intricate beadwork, and structured flounces.

Next to present was Albert Andrada who solidified the “Modern Filipiniana” trend by presenting a dramatic collection with lots of sheen and tulle in classic bridal colors. Putting a new twist on his beautifully embellished creations, Andrada incorporated volume and pleated layers together with the classic butterfly sleeves. His models navigated through the winding runway styled with fresh faces and sleek pulled back hair accessorized by a trend WE wish to see more of – gilded metal and crystal headpieces in lieu of a veil.

Closing the show was ace designer, Val Taguba who never fails to sell the drama. He presented breathtaking bridal looks from bold and unconventional colors such as black and red to traditional bridal whites and creams. His ballgown silhouettes were unmistakably his complementing his penchant for texture, beading and lacework. Just like the impact of his creations for popular TV soap characters, Taguba’s creations are worthy of a grand entrance and a perfect fit for a bride who really wants to stand out and be memorable.

The very first BFWP show will pave the way for more creative designers and couturiers to push the boundaries of bridal fashion. It aims to elevate the bridal landscape into something extra special by presenting bridal options not just as delicately treasured possessions but as wearable art.