DFA: Renee Salud showcases in US mastery of beadwork, Filipiniana

Renée Salud, dubbed the Philippines' Fashion Ambassador, once again showcased his mastery of intricate beadwork and classical Filipiniana wear in a fashion show at the Ramada Hotel in New Jersey in the United States on March 9. In a news release, the DFA said the fashion show, dubbed "Renée Salud: In Focus", featured the latest designs of Salud, an institution in Philippine fashion. Salud showed a collection of smart-casual Filipiniana vests, blazers, and tunics, cocktail dresses, gowns, classic ternos, Barong Tagalogs, and Filipiniana wedding ensembles.  

The DFA said the "designer's ingenious use of indigenous Philippine materials such as shells, capiz, coconut, abaca, jusi, and other native weaves elicited enthusiastic applause and a standing ovation from the audience of over 300 guests."  

Aside from Salud's designs, the show also featured beautiful Philippine jewelry, bags, clutches and hair accessories made by local Philippine designers, the DFA said. A week before the show, Salud's designs were likewise featured at the 5th Avenue Display area of the Philippine Center in New York.  

Part of the proceeds of the fashion show and dinner-dance, organized by Red Lantern Ventures, LLC with the support of the Philippine Consulate General in New York, will be for the benefit of:  

• St. Joseph's School for the Blind in Jersey City, New Jersey,
• the Laurel Memorial District Hospital in Tanauan, Batangas, and
• the Filipino American Legal Defense and Education Fund (FALDEF).
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Acting Head of Post Theresa Dizon-de Vega praised Salud for showing that Philippine design deserves to be seen on the world stage. She likewise praised the designer's commitment of "incorporating Philippine indigenous materials in his designs and for utilizing the craftsmanship of our local artisans, weavers, sewers, and embroiderers in the Philippines".  

Salud is currently preparing for another show to be held later in the year in the US featuring extensive use of indigenous Philippine fibers and weaves. - VVP, GMA News