Muslim Mindanao-inspired multi-colored beaded caftan from the Maranaw Collection (1984)
FARRALES@BENILDE, a physical exhibit of some of the outstanding designs by the late Ben Farrales, reputed as “Dean of Philippine fashion,” opens Friday, May 27, 2022 at the 12F Main Gallery of the Design and Arts Campus, De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde.
Farrales was an artist who paved the way for the golden era of Philippine fashion starting in the ‘50s. In the 60 years he devoted to fashion, he contributed to the growth of Philippine fashion design and even organized the industry with various initiatives. He introduced and popularized long gowns inspired by Muslim Mindanao, intricate draping in ternos, and elegant trajes de mestiza, as well as contemporary loungewear, cocktail dresses, and draped frocks.
With over 200 runway shows here and abroad, he established his significant role in strengthening the identity of local fashion on a global scale.
Black and cream beaded brocade tube gown originally worn by Bambi Lammoglia Harper in Malacañang during the term of President Carlos Garcia in the ’60s
Magenta and blue tube gown with ribbon back tie and matching shawl
Grey double-tiered skirt gown embellished with gold roses
Produced by the Center for Campus Art (CCA) of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, the exhibition showcases an assemblage of Filipiniana ensembles, beaded ball gowns, pleated dresses, satin garments, and single items, from skirts to capes. These all demonstrate the high level of craftsmanship as well as the range of artistry and talent of Farrales.
“The collection was a gift from the family of Ben Farrales,” curator and Benilde CCA director, architect Gerry Torres, said. “His niece-in-law, Cynthia Pendatun, works at De La Salle University and, through Lasallian East Asia District Brother Visitor Br. Armin Luistro FSC, contacted Benilde President Br. Edmundo Fernandez FSC to offer it to us.”
Multi-tiered black tube gown with flat round iridescent discs
Gold and white three-piece maria clara ensemble with veil (1999)
Forty pieces from Farrales’ seminal and significant collections will comprise FARRALES@BENILDE gallery.
The FARRALES@BENILDE exhibition likewise features 40 14-inch miniature designs by Benilde Fashion Design and Merchandising (FDM) students, inspired by the works of the late icon. These creations were made from home through the guidance of award-winning couture doll dressmaker Cholo Ayuyao and the fashion educators and mentors from the Benilde FDM program.
Black three-piece maria clara gown
Capiz-studded lilac terno with detachable sleeves with matching train and headdress
FARRALES@BENILDE will be on view until Saturday, September 10, 2022 at the 12F Main Gallery of the Design and Arts Campus, De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, 950 Pablo Ocampo Street, Malate, Manila.
For viewing appointments, visit Benilde CCA on Facebook and Instagram. For more information, visit www.benildecampusart.com.
