Apart from creating chart-topping and award-winning hits, P-Pop boy band SB19 has shattered stereotypes of menswear when it comes to their looks. It became their avenue not just to create their own identity but also to highlight Filipino artistry. They have demonstrated it numerous times, from donning colorful local textiles at the Philippines-Korean Cultural Exchange Festival 2020 and their minero-inspired look in their 'Gento' music video to wearing romantic pieces at Neric Beltran's latest runway show. Their mission of championing Filipino fashion continued at the recent ASEAN-Korea Music Festival 2023 in Indonesia.
For the event, SB19’s Josh, Pablo, Justine, Ken, and Stell made a statement with their all-black ensembles crafted by noted Filipino fashion designer Francis Libiran. According to the designer, the looks were inspired by the Filipino music superstars' persona, which is merged with his hallmark design techniques.
“They’re huge and celestial. The pieces mirror each of the members’ unique style and charisma,” Francis told Manila Bulletin Lifestyle.
His collaboration with the band started when he designed Josh’s look for Binibining Pilipinas 2023 pageant. For the ASEAN-Korea Music Festival, Francis' creations for the band featured his signature art deco beadwork, a nod to his background in architecture. Josh, Pablo, Justine, and Ken’s pieces have Dupioni fabric with custom linear beadworks and corded crystals. While Stell had Italian wool with custom beadwork. Believe it or not, the looks only took a week to finish.
“Designing a piece for Filipino champions like SB19 is a true honor and a thrilling creative challenge,” the designer mused. “It takes an intricate understanding of their unique style, personalities, and the essence of their music. Each piece should not only be visually striking but must also resonate with the group's energy and spirit.”
This November, Francis will be celebrating his 25th year in the fashion industry with a grand runway show. Through the years, he has crafted outfits for the country's top athletes, musicians, and celebrities, making him a true designer for Filipino champions. For him, the key is fusing design with key cultural elements when it comes to creating looks for Pinoy icons.
“It’s about combining artistry with cultural elements, crafting a design that proudly represents the Philippines on an international stage,” Francis said. “Collaborating with these exceptional artists pushes me to create fashion that is not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful, a fusion of artistry and national pride.”
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