Chito Vijandre’s reentry into the fashion scene after an absence of 25 years was nothing short of phenomenal. Here are his haute couture numbers shown at the Tribute to Slim’s at 50 held at the recent Philippine Fashion Week. It was like Shanghai in the ’30s, with Art Deco colors and geometric silhouettes; the colors were vivid in brocade, voiles, gold mesh; and the accessories echoed the treasures found in Vijandre’s Firma, the very famous boutique.

Cesar Gaupo’s Holiday Collection is all about day-to-evening dresses. A pioneer of ready-to-wear in Shoemart since the ’70s, once the creative director of HK-based Shanghai Tang, and the very successful designer of Manila’s made-to-measure Gaupo Shoes, his offerings are young and hip with couture detail and finishing. His LBD are reinvented into a woman’s best friend, definitely modern yet decidedly classic. Cesar Gaupo is ageless and elegant.

Philip Rodriguez, veteran couturier and president of Cebu Designers Guild, has something for everyone this holiday season. Even suggestions on how to look wonderful for New Year’s Eve. Some electric-pleated pastel chiffon with caviar beading and appliqued flowers, a long black and cream guipure lace showstopper and even a bouffant Goya skirt in purple with a beaded T-shirt top. Philip Rodriguez loves to romance a woman’s body, making one-of-a-kind figure-flattering fashion. His style is eternal and yet in the moment.