Ternocon this year showcased prominent figures, highlighting Filipino creativity. Here’s how these personalities brought out the beauty of our culture at Ternocon 2024.
Every year, we commemorate the Philippines’ Independence Day on June 12, marking the end of nearly four centuries of colonial rule. That day signifies a crucial moment when the island nation reclaimed its autonomy. Every year, we honor Independence Day through various means, such as raising the flag or participating in celebrations. Ternocon has become an annual celebration of culture and national freedom, an occasion to appreciate our heritage, people, and creativity.
Named KKK: Kasarinlan, Kultura, Kasuotan, the fashion show celebrated the 126th year of Philippine Independence by showcasing the rich history of our culture through the iconic terno.
The event was a collaboration between Bench/Lifestyle + Clothing and the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP).
Three innovative fashion designers — Jojie Lloren, Cary Santiago, and Jaggy Glarino — mesmerized the audience with collections that paid tribute to Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, respectively.
Each collection was a sincere honor to our heritage, weaving stories of our past into every piece.
READ ALSO: Keeping Tradition Alive: 5 Filipino Fashion Designers Who Create Exceptional Filipiniana
Luzon: An Ode to Philippine Pride
For Jojie Lloren, whose inspiration stems from Luzon, Lifestyle Asia inquired about the steps he took in creating his collection.
Lloren explained, “First of all, my inspiration was my mother. The collection is my tribute to her and our motherland. I wanted to transform all the difficult things I witnessed during the last 8 months of my Mommy’s life (from the doctor’s prognosis, the tumor, the pain, the blood, the distensions, dry skin, to her last breath) into something beautiful. We experimented a lot with surface treatments on fabrics, although in the end, we weren’t able to do all of them due to a lack of time as we only started production on May 23.”
Regarding his muse, he stated, “My mother is my number one muse. She was a strong woman, a very caring and nurturing mother. She created a happy nest for her family.”
Fashion designers, celebrities, and well-known personalities attended the event, all donning different beautiful ensembles, united in celebrating Independence Day at this year’s Ternocon.
Kai Lim
Kai Lim wore Joey Samson’s Filipiniana gown at the event. Her elegant updo hairstyle complemented the ensemble, striking a balance between tradition and modern style. The gown showcased Joey Samson’s craftsmanship, celebrating Filipino culture and enhancing Lim’s beauty.
Lulu Tan-Gan
Lulu Tan Gan was a vision of harmony and craftsmanship. She wore a stunning TanGan Piña Jacket adorned with a beautifully beaded Sarimanok and a lovely brown embroidered scarf. She paired this with COS blue pants and eye-catching turquoise MiuMiu Footwear. The colors red, brown, and blue created a harmonious contrast, showing the elegance of her style.
Inno Sotto
Legendary designer Inno Sotto made a grand entrance at Ternocon, donning his own signature style. With a career that spans back to the seventies, Sotto continues to exhibit his enduring creativity in the fashion world.
Luisa Viray
Luisa Viray combines a preppy charm with an air of sophistication in her ensemble. She wears a chic top from Jo Ann Bitagcol and Carl Jan Cruz, paired with a stylish skirt from a Chatuchak market find. Completing the look with elegant Thom Browne shoes, Luisa achieves a refined and elegant outfit.
Nicole Ortega
Nicole Ortega looked captivating in her feminine ensemble. She wore elegant white pants from Rosanna Ocampo, paired beautifully with a charming floral pink Filipiniana top from ILAYA Couture. An outfit that looks graceful, elegant, and timeless.
Mia Borromeo
Mia Borromeo looks elegant in her embroidered piña top by Lulu Tan Gan, paired with vibrant printed pants from Bangkok. She finishes the look with a stylish clutch by Ann Ong.
Kathy Huang
Kathy Huang commands attention with her striking look, featuring sleek leather pants paired with a dramatic Filipiniana top by Jojie Lloren, characterized by its extended back detail. The ensemble gives us both strength and style.
Tweetie De Leon
Tweetie De Leon, a model and fashion accessories designer, embodies the essence of a modern Filipina in her outfit. She wears a chic top by Randy Ortiz paired with striking printed wide-leg pants by Jo Ann Bitagcol.
Ana De Ocampo
Ana De Ocampo, CEO of the Wildflour group of restaurants, stuns in a Jun Escario creation for Ternocon. Her white top, extending gracefully to her legs, is truly striking. The addition of a ribbon infuses a youthful yet elegant touch, perfectly complementing her style.
Kaye Tinga
Kaye Tinga radiates beauty in a stunning full terno by Joey Samson. The Filipiniana top and skirt with frilled detailing create a captivating ensemble that suits her perfectly. Her half-tied hair adds a touch of Maria Clara Filipina charm, completing the look with elegance.
Gowns That Tell a Story
These 10 individuals and their designer choices for Ternocon provide insights into their unique styles and personalities. Each selection reflects a deep connection to our heritage, celebrating not just fashion but also our independence, culture, and traditional attire.
Stay tuned for part two and three of our coverage for Ternocon 2024, where we delve deeper into the unique fashion statements and cultural reflections of this remarkable event.
All photos courtesy of Kieran Punay from KLIQ, Inc.
