Cover (Photo: Shaira Luna)
(Photo: Shaira Luna)
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Balmain x Barbie celebrates diversity in a big, pink, and proud way—as expressed by local artists, Issa Pressman and Alex Diaz
A model, actress, singer, and dancer, Issa Pressman is also a known gender advocate. For her latest campaign with Alex Diaz, both wear Balmain x Barbie, the new collection by the French maison that has made waves both on social media and on the runway. Inspired by the unapologetic aura of Barbie and her partner, Ken, Balmain brings their collection to Manila complete with an exuberant line of clothing hallmarked by strong graphics, the maison's maze-inspired motif, and iconic silhouettes first seen in Balmain Paris Fashion Week.
"Today's Barbie wholeheartedly embraces everyone’s extraordinary beauty and possibilities," Pressman says proudly. It shamelessly puts forth a line that is proud and pink—candy pink stripes, loud pink denim, and a double-breasted men's blazer defined by golden buttons. "Barbie defined a generation and Balmain remains to be a heavy hitter in the global fashion industry," Diaz rightly comments.
Above (Photo: Shaira Luna)
Above (Photo: Shaira Luna)
(Photo: Shaira Luna)
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This limited-edition capsule collection envisioned by Creative Director Olivier Rousteing is almost 100 per cent unisex. It embraces the magnanimous colour and lends itself to all who wish to claim it as their own. It rejects any arbitrary gender limitations and strengthens its semiotics through fashionable visuals that inspire both men and women. “I think Issa and I share [the sentiment that] the colour wheel of gender identity and expression is so vast," says Diaz. "That’s the beauty of the community—it’s so diverse and I think we represent very unique niches and ideas within that community. It was an honour to be considered as a champion for the community because it also means we are effective in our personal and professional messages of inclusivity, acceptance and love for diversity.”
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Above (Photo: Balmain)
(Photo: Balmain)
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It can be remembered that Filipino social media personality, Bretman Rock also modelled the Balmain x Barbie collection, wearing a tweed crop top and skirt and a silken lounge set. His androgynous looks broke barriers and was applauded by those on the Internet. Now, Pressman takes to her look in much the same way. “I do love a playful bossy look so I love this 6-button striped blazer!” she said of her pink powerhouse ensemble. “I think this collection wants everyone looking all dolled up. . . and when I say everyone, I mean everyone. Balmain x Barbie is a collaboration that goes beyond fashion . . . dropping limits and blurring out rules. It’s about setting the spirit of freedom and empowerment, bringing out the true you—loud, proud and pink.”
Balmain Paris Manila Ground Floor, The Shoppes Solaire Resort & Casino 1 Aseana Avenue, Parañaque 1709, Manila.
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