Marvel at the designs of the ‘Dean of Philippine fashion’

Earlier this year, the local fashion industry bid farewell to the legendary designer Ben Farrales. Dubbed as the “Dean of Philippine fashion,” Mang Ben, as his friends and colleagues humbly called him, helped put the nation’s fashion scene on the global map with over 200 runway shows he had done here and abroad, championing local materials, artisanal works, and heritage. Now, with many rallying him to be considered as a nominee for the Order of National Artist in the Philippines, it is just right to celebrate his colorful journey and legacy in the industry.

Doing just that is an Instagram exhibit with the handle @farralesxfdm. Launched last September, the virtual exhibit is part of De La Salle - College of St, Benilde’s Center for Campus Art’s exhibitions along with To Differ Digitally 2 and Taft and the Burnham Plan.

“In 2021, the College of Saint Benilde was gifted with a collection of garments created by the Dean of Philippine fashion, Ben Farrales,” curator Ar. Gerry Torres says. “Totaling 40 pieces, the collection is composed of gowns, dresses, Filipiniana, and single items like skirts and capes, demonstrating the range of artistry and skill of the esteemed fashion designer. The Center for Campus Art (CCA) partners with the students of the Fashion Design and Merchandising (FDM) program for an Instagram exhibit that responds to the pieces in the collection.”

Already posted on the page are some of Farrales’ best works such as his vibrant multi-colored beaded caftan, one-shouldered orange silk gown with banig weave, and an opulent gold and white Maria Clara ensemble as well as past editorial shoots and archived features.

Apart from showcasing the works of the late designer, the exhibit will soon present the creations of students of Benilde’s FDM program, “responding to Farrales’ designs.”

Check out the exhibit @farralesxfdm on Instagram and online at www.benildecampusart.com.