Cover Filipino designer Paul Cabral presents his Una collection at the Laperal Mansion
Filipino designer Paul Cabral presents his Una collection at the Laperal Mansion
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Esteemed designer Paul Cabral unveils his first-ever fashion show with pieces from his UNA collection
Paul Cabral has been a renowned creative for over two decades and is known for his passion for Philippine textiles. He has designed outfits for top artists, political leaders and fashion icons. He has graced numerous red carpets, fashion editorials and milestone events. In 2015, he gained recognition for designing piña barongs for 21 world leaders of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum, which solidified his status as one of the most prominent designers in the Philippines.
Despite his esteemed reputation, Paul had never held a fashion show until February 27, when he showcased his Una collection at the Laperal Mansion, otherwise known as the Arlegui Guest House.
More from Tatler: Paul Cabral: Master of the Filipino design game
Above First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, Paul Cabral and Wendell Ramos with the models
First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, Paul Cabral and Wendell Ramos with the models
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Above The Una collection by Paul Cabral
Above The Una collection by Paul Cabral
The Una collection by Paul Cabral
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“I am excited to showcase my Una collection; this is the first time I am having a fashion show,” he said a few days before the event. Paul Cabral usually designs clothes for his clients. For the show, he designed for himself: “This is the first time I have created what I want. It’s my taste and sensibilities—I am designing for me.” It took him several months to complete his collection, a fulfilling journey despite the creative challenges.
With Una, Cabral’s signature tailoring and attention to detail were highlighted. Piña fabric, mainly, was the muse of the show. The designer developed and innovated its traits and applied them to his collection. “I added a little twist by exploring other silhouettes and Filipino fabrics from different regions, executing a new and contemporary approach,” he shares. “I’ve also manipulated our locally-produced fabrics and created new textures using Filipino materials like shells and pearls.”
Read more: Liwayway, La Herminia, Filip + Inna, and More: Local Brands That Champion Filipino Weaving Heritage
Above The Una collection by Paul Cabral
Above The Una collection by Paul Cabral
The Una collection by Paul Cabral
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Above A peek at the premier gala’s programme for the evening
A peek at the premier gala’s programme for the evening
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Paul Cabral’s first runway was an ode to the people who supported him in his artistic journey, from being a former apprentice of some of the best local designers to one of the country’s most prominent “fashion masters”. “I am profoundly grateful to everyone who has trusted me through all these years,” he says. “This show is my legacy.”
True to his advocacy of elevating the Philippine creative and design industry, Cabral will donate a portion of the show’s profit to Fashion Aid Philippines. This non-stock, non-profit organisation aims to help the new generation of Filipino talents. He is confident that he’ll see more flourishing designers, weavers, sewers, beauty artists and creatives in the future—a critical factor in his ultimate dream.
Bianca Zobel, Karen Santos, Tina Cuevas, Maricris Cardenas-Zobel, and Dennis Lustico
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“With the help of Fashion Aid Philippines, I want to unite the local artisans to grow and innovate Filipino talent through projects and educational activities necessary to our field.” With his eye for detail, creativity and newfound confidence, Paul has captured and conquered the fickle society scene with his first show. Bravo, Paul; here’s to more shows and wonderful surprises.
This story was originally published in the April 2024 issue of Tatler Philippines. Download it on your digital device through Zinio, Magzter, or Pressreader.
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Credits
Photography: Medal Elepano
Angela Nicole Regis Guiral is the assistant digital editor of Tatler Philippines. She studied journalism and has since written features that look closely at how culture, lifestyle and social impact converge, while occasionally wandering into the worlds of style and travel.
