Life is back as we know it. Are we all dressed for it? In fashion, are we back with a vengeance? We turn to some of our favorite designers for their ideas on revenge dressing or is there such a thing?
After the pandemic, I think fashion is back with a vengeance. On a personal level, most of my clients are now ready to go out of their homes, explore and sort of truly enjoy fashion along with this reclaimed freedom. So, yes, fashion is back, more optimistic, more colorful, more joyous, more intentional, and also purposeful, and we’re all better because of it. —Rajo Laurel
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Revenge fashion to me means allowing people to reclaim and move on from negative experiences and feel powerful, hopeful, confident. Early this year, after two years of a hiatus from gatherings, events, and just basically going out because of the pandemic, revenge shopping was born. Everybody just wanted to step out and meet other people in their newest, latest fashions. People just wanted to feel good about themselves and to feel normal again or even present a new version of themselves. Fashion is back with a vengeance indeed!—Mark Bumgarner
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I see this happening. After all, businesses have opened, now fully operational. I have a boutique in one of the posh malls in Makati and I see how people shop. You see shoppers carrying a minimum of two shopping bags from branded boutiques. All my clients are back, ordering more clothes and gowns. Orders are mounting up! I am so happy to see this scenario. All’s well that ends well. Glamoring up is back, with a vengeance! Fashion is back, with a vengeance. The fashion itch is now spreading, unstoppable, and a double dose of glamoring up is vital!—Albert Andrada
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Over the past few months, I’ve seen clients come to my studio, even while I was in the US, wanting more, being more, almost as if shopping for a new person, ready to try something new. It makes me so happy because I am able to express more through clothing and design. Even the way I dress has been a lot more expressive having evolved dramatically from my usual very clean uniform-like looks. Is fashion back? Absolutely—and it’s better than ever, more expressive than ever. Even I am in for the ride. —Chris Nick De Los Reyes
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I believe in the desire to look fabulous and be more creative in terms of looks and drama when it comes to attending events or balls. I think people have become more aggressive toward dressing up. Since the pandemic became more manageable, I’ve wanted to look grand every time I show up at events. I dress for every one of such occasions as if it were my last because I always think of the “now.” Life is short, you know. We have to look fabulous to be remembered.
—Puey Quiñones
