Cover Mark Bumgarner and Pia Wurtzbach
Mark Bumgarner and Pia Wurtzbach
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First showcased at F/Row Fashion Week in LA, Mark Bumgarner’s s/s 2024 collection was inspired by unadulterated femininity
Mark Bumgarner is an internationally renowned fashion designer who has constantly championed Filipino creativity and craftsmanship. Known for his clean silhouettes, expert ruching, and feminine detailing, Bumgarner has dressed Filipina muses such as Pia Wurtzbach and Kylie Versoza. His most recent achievement sees his designs walking down the runway at F/Row Fashion Week in Los Angeles, California. With comprehensive detailings that show off his trademark skill set, Bumgarner presented a sweet new line of dresses, skirts, and formal wear that accentuated the female form through sweetheart necklines, oversized bows, plunging necklines, and lots of flower power.
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Here’s a look into his new spring/summer 2024 collection:
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What was the most challenging part of putting this collection together?
“I think the logistics was the most difficult part [of creating] this collection. I am a perfectionist regarding fits, ensuring everything is custom-fitted to each model. Luckily, the organisers arranged an entire afternoon to fit most models and provided me with seamstresses for alterations. Also, flying with 16 pieces of luggage abroad was challenging!”
What inspired the collection? There are a lot of floral elements and feminine touches. Is there a story behind your use of this?
“My most recent runway presentation showcased a Terno collection, highlighting blown-up floral designs, a theme that carries over into this collection. Although the treatment is different, I love adding floral and bow elements to my pieces as they are very visual and add instant glamour to the look.”
How did you choose the colour scheme?
“The collection starts with blush, chartreuse and dusty blue, going to black and white. The colour palette was a trial and error until I got exactly what I wanted for the collection. I like to experiment with colours I am not familiar with, like chartreuse. And I’m pleased with the results.”
Can you tell us about your experience at the F/Row Fashion Week in LA? What was the process like? Any interesting stories about it?
“Errol Isip of F/Row contacted us about three months prior, and it took me a while to decide. I usually only come up with a seasonal collection through a lookbook. Eventually, we decided to talk and plan for the show. It was a long and tedious process, but they made it easy!
Pia Wurtzbach, my muse and dear friend flew in from Paris Fashion Week to close my show, and I am forever grateful. The audience was genuinely surprised when Pia came out as we tried our best to keep her presence under wraps. It was a truly memorable moment.”
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Credits
Images: Courtesy of Mark Bumgarner
