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Every year, Slim’s Fashion & Arts School holds an exhibit of works by students who have passed their prerequisite courses.

This year, students looked to their school’s founder, Salvacion Lim Higgins, for inspiration. Together with special guests, they also celebrated the launch of an educational fund named in honor of the fashion designer who was admired for her meticulous and impeccable constructions.

In the appropriately titled “Slim Inspires” held at SM Mega Fashion Hall last October, this year’s batch presented creations bearing the designer’s signature styles: dramatic silhouettes, unexpected color combinations, and sophisticated construction techniques.

Models sported these stunning works together with timepieces provided by event partner Swatch.

To be You highlights seven standout pieces that aptly paid homage to the woman whose fashion school served as the training ground for noted designers Joe Salazar, Cesar Gaupo, Michael Cinco, Albert Andrada, and others.

VANESSA PINLAC

This fully embellished dress of sequins and feathers is a nod to Slim’s incredible attention to detail.

MARIKOV REGALADO

With masculine and feminine elements, this Baroque-inspired barong incorporates pleats, embroidery and a classic rose.

RUSANNE CASELA

This pantsuit with a softly draped cape features embroidered appliques of birds in flight. The ensemble echoes Slim’s penchant for three-dimensional embellishment.

KAY AREÑO

This short terno has strategically placed ruching on the top and a bow detail on the skirt, all draped using Slim’s classic techniques.

JOMAR SALDO

This cocoon-shaped coat dress is reminiscent of the Japanese kimono. It also recalls Slim’s penchant for exotic influences.

MARVIEN DASON

A hand-painted jumpsuit features a flash of red peering out of a structured collar.

NIV LAGMAN

Structured and architectural, this piece is a modern take on the traditional terno.

Photography Jorell Legaspi

Styling Luis Carlo San Juan

Makeup and Hairstyle Theresa Padin

Model Yaofa Dela Cruz

Shot on location at the Swatch building; special thanks to Virgie Ramos