Michael Cinco enchants Manila with his ‘The Impalpable Dream of España’ collection

The Dubai-based Filipino couturier reimagines the beauty and heritage of Spain for his latest collection


A Michael Cinco runway show is more than just a style fest, it is an experience. Lucky for Filipino fashion savants this year, they were able to see the works of the Dubai-based Filipino couturier up close twice, with the recent one featuring his ode to the beauty and the rich culture of Spain.

Dubbed “The Impalpable Dream of Spain,” the couture collection was first presented in Dubai. Through the Philippine Legacy Gala 2023, this enchanting collection was brought to Manila for Filipinos to witness live. Michael looked at the beauty of the historic La Sagrada de Familia in Barcelona, the iconic works of Spanish-native artists like Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dalí, and the captivating Spanish matadors and flamenco dancers in making the collection.

“We have so much Spanish culture in us,” Michael told Manila Bulletin Lifestyle. “It is nice to celebrate that.” This is not the first time the designer looked at Spain as the inspiration of his collection. He produced one in 2022 and another in 2013.

For his latest fashion presentation, the Marriott Grand Ballroom was elegantly dressed with recreations of a Spanish monastery architecture. First to grace the runway were his layered pieces in black and red, a nod to the garbs of Spanish matadors. Dramatic were his velled muses donning black ball gowns adorned with crystal embellishments. The fashion fest continued with dark ensembles featuring floor-length coats and glimmering capes. Adding color to his presentations were elegant evening wear pieces in chartreuse and deep purple. For his final look, Michael opted to present a bridal piece, an ethereal ball gown with long sleeves and subtle sparkle.

The Philippine Legacy Gala also awarded Michael with the Legacy Award of Excellence in Global Fashion. The gala was also for the benefit of The Philippine Missionari Della Fondazione di Carita, Inc. and the Gusi Peace Prize Foundation. In 2022, Michael was honored with The Gusi Peace Prize by the Gusi Peace Prize Foundation based in Manila. The award is given to “individuals and organizations who contribute to global peace and progress through a wide variety of fields.”

See Michael Cinco’s “The Impalpable Dream of España” collection in motion below:

Hello, readers! Do you have a story you want us to feature? Send us a message on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, and X and let’s talk about it.

Banner image by Daniel Tan from Michael Cinco/Instagram