Top designer Ben Farrales closes Fashion Week with timeless pieces

The Philippine Fashion Week held at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City last Sunday concluded with a retrospective collection as a tribute to the Dean of Philippine Fashion, Ben Farrales.

Opening his show was Marina Benipayo, dressed in a black and white combo: a sabrina-cut seamless top sporting kimono sleeves and paired with an above-the-knee slit skirt. Her hair was styled in a sleek bun and accessorized with a statement neck piece which was tastefully topped off with a pair of nude pumps.

It was then followed by a variety of looks from romantic dresses to more wearable pieces also in black and white.

Farrales also presented a diverse collection from architectural pieces to more feminine gowns.

The top designer, or Mang Ben as he is widely known in Philippine fashion, showcased his love for indigenous material like the Muslim ethnic fabrics. Sarong pieces and dresses using inol fabric were featured during the fashion show.

Among the models who walked during Mang Ben's show were Filipina top models such as Sarah Meier, Ria Bolivar, Jasmine Maierhofer, Manuela Basilio, and Charo Ronquillo.

Actor Ricardo Cepeda also walked at Mang Ben's, dressed in traditional Muslim attire.