Weaving Stories at Vogue Threads Manila 2024
Full article: https://vogue.ph/vogue-partnerships/weaving-stories-at-vogue-threads-manila-2024
A showcase of Filipino creativity, craftsmanship, and immersive experiences, the three-day event was an exploration of fashion, heritage and innovation
It was in an exchange with Vogue Singapore editor-in-chief Desmond Lim, along with Vogue editors Vena Brykalin and Martina Bonnier as virtual panelists, when Vogue Philippines editor-in-chief Bea Valdes said, “Fashion magazines do not exist in a vacuum. We are cultural platforms, and sometimes we are a means to amplify a message and to incite change.”
These words by Valdes set the tone for Vogue Threads Manila 2024, a three-day celebration that highlighted the artistry of Filipino designers, but also underscored the deep cultural narratives of Philippine fashion. Held at Space at One Ayala Mall, the multi-day event echoed the global theme introduced at Vogue Threads Paris in September—to weave stories that resonate beyond borders, connecting heritage, and innovation.
Photographed by Kieran Punay.
Photographed by Kieran Punay.
Photographed by Kim Santos.
After registration, guests were greeted with tote bags filled with gifts from TRESemmé, Evian, Vice Cosmetics, a Vogue magazine and stationery set, along with a special passport designed to guide them through a series of immersive experiences. Each hall in Space at One Ayala Mall had a distinct purpose: exhibits, Vogue Talks, an Experience Hall, a portfolio review, and a casting call.
Guests such as Marj Maroket, Liam Labrooy, Sabina Gonzalez, and EJ Nacion experienced being chauffeured to Makati City, arriving in Hyundai’s latest models, while, Amanda Ngyuen, Desmond Lim, and Leanne Robers traveled in Lexus hybrid cars.
As one of their perks at the event, Security Bank Gold Circle members enjoyed the convenience of a VIP lane, granting them a seamless and expedited access to the venue. They also had an exclusive tour led by Vogue Philippines associate fashion editor Ticia Almazan. Presented by Security Bank, the foyer highlighted the 23 maquettes that were first showcased in Paris, displaying intricate designs from Filipino designers including Hannah Adrias, Ivarluski Aseron, Vania Romoff, Carl Jan Cruz, Mich Dulce, and Ezra Santos. To enhance their experience during the three-day event, they also had premiere access to Vogue Talks.
Photographed by Kim Santos.
Photographed by Kim Santos.
Photographed by Kieran Punay.
From the foyer to the Vogue Experience Hall, B&B Italia showcased pieces that blended comfort and design. The Camaleonda sofa by Mario Bellini provided plush seating, while the Serie Up 2000 chair by Gaetano Pesce stood out with its bold shapes and color. Other notable furniture included the Eda-Mame by Piero Lissoni and Le Bambole by Stella McCartney. On the other end of the hall is a photo wall featuring partners Ayala Malls, Security Bank, Security Bank Gold Circle, Jewelmer, B&B Italia, Tissot, The Watch Store, Belo Medical Group, and Univers, who made the event possible.
Photographed by Kim Santos.
Upon entering the Vogue Experience Hall, The Security Bank Lounge provided a relaxing space for its members, while vivo’s Capture Station paid homage to the Philippine archipelago, with fashion photographer Jan Mayo capturing guests’ photos with the vivo v40 5G. Auro Chocolate offered a sweet journey of flavors like Salted Peanut and Ube Coco, including a preview of their special South Sea pearl-inspired collection. Meanwhile, Dove engaged guests with an interactive booth showcasing their latest Radiant + Care product line. In between activities, attendees partook in refreshments from Cibo, Farmacy, and Pink’s.
Vogue Talks became the heartbeat of Vogue Threads Manila, featuring thought-provoking discussions on fashion, art, and heritage. Esteemed panelists included journalists who were styled by TONI&GUY and made up by Nix Institute of Beauty, Karen Davila and Ces Drilon, as well as international figures like Amanda Nguyen and Leanne Robers provided insight and their expertise on topics that resonated with the audience.
The second day continued with a portfolio review and masterclasses for beauty enthusiasts, including NARS’ “Discover Your Beauty Profile” and a TONI&GUY hairstyling session led by Bill Watson. The day culminated in a social gathering where creatives, models, tastemakers, and designers mingled over cocktails from Blackbox. An intimate Thanksgiving dinner at Manila House honored Vogue Philippines’ contributors and collaborators and took home special gifts from Baken.
The final day saw over 170 aspiring models participate in an open casting call with a panel including fashion director Pam Quiñones, Vogue Man editor Danyl Geneciran, and beauty editor Joyce Oreña. To prep for their interview and shoot, the aspiring models used BYS makeup to ensure they looked their best for the panel. More than a search for new faces, the casting emphasized diversity and inclusivity, reflecting the broader message of the event, that beauty comes in many forms and backgrounds.