To many, wearing an elegant gown or a dashing tailored suit on their wedding day would be a dream come true. The ones that make this dream come to life are talented and passionate fashion designers, eager to make sure that brides and grooms face the new chapter of their lives in the most beautiful way possible.
As a fashion designer himself, Francis Libiran is keen on making sure that all of his designs show his passion to bring a smile and satisfaction to whoever wears them.
His carefully crafted designs for wedding attires were recently put in the spotlight during Hilton Manila’s two-day Bridal Fair. With the theme of “Ever After – A Journey Through Time,” the bridal fair featured top industry suppliers ranging from venue styling to floral arrangements, aiming to provide inspiration for couples making plans to make their wedding ceremony as magical and joyful as possible.
The bridal fair also had a runway show, which prominently featured Libiran’s enchanting work of bridal gowns and suits for grooms.
In an exclusive interview with Manila Standard Life, Libiran shared how he came to start his journey in the fashion world when he was young.
“My interest in fashion started at an early age. My mother Rebecca, is my personal icon of style and elegance and she influenced me into taking fashion as a career,” the fashion designer recounted.
In college, he took up a degree in Architecture. However, after receiving his diploma from the University of Santo Tomas, he decided to finally pursue his passion in fashion design at the Fashion Institute of the Philippines.
Throughout his time in the industry of fashion, Libiran has been known for using various design techniques such as art deco patterns and cutouts, custom laser-cut materials, intricate embellishments, and custom embroidery. However, regardless if they are intricately designed wedding gowns, dainty headpieces, or even clutch bags, all of his designs have one thing in common—heart.
“On every design that I make, I always pour my heart into it,” the fashion designer said simply.
Libiran also made it a point to motivate himself to think that every single piece of clothing that he crafts represents the Philippines’ craftsmanship and talent to the entire world, hence, it should always be made in the best possible way. Representing the country for his craft is something that the fashion designer would always take pride in doing.
“Whenever I represent the country [in] global fashion events, when the name Francis Libiran is called as a representative of the Philippines, it is with great honor, pride, and gratitude that I stand before an international audience wearing the Philippine flag on my chest,” said Libiran.
As he celebrates his 25th year in the fashion industry, Libiran is looking forward to more projects to come.
“The future is bright for Team Francis Libiran and we look forward to many collaborations and projects lined up in commemoration of our 25th year. Our ready-to-wear product line is something to look forward to, among others,” said Libiran.