Halloween isn’t just for gore and scares, it is also a time when ultimate fantasies are brought to life. A testament to that is the Opulence Halloween Ball. Led by Raymond Gutierrez and Ashleigh Rye, the Halloween event first happened in 2019. After years of being on hold because of the pandemic, the ball made a triumphant return, serving a spectacular display of costumes crafted by some of the best Filipino fashion designers.
For its 2023 edition, the ball tasked its attendees to present their modern takes on myth, legends, and folklore. The result was a night full of celestial beings and spellbinding looks that were nothing short of opulent. Among the most notable looks of the night were from Metro Magazine’s King and Queen of the Night James Reid and Anne Curtis, who came in as the God of the Underworld and the Goddess of Love. Fashion photographer BJ Pascual and TV host Vice Ganda won the Runway Ready Look of the Night award with their stylish takes on ancient deities. Noted fashion designer Rajo Laurel and FTA Design’s Nix Alañon were hailed as Discovery Samal’s Couple of the Night. With her interpretation of the “Birth of Venus,” Camila Lhuillier-Albani snagged the Maserati’s Grandest Entrance award.
Opulence Halloween Ball 2023 also presented the latest works of world-renowned designer and legendary visionary Furne Amato of Amato Couture. Intimating celestial beings, the 20-piece collection was composed of fantastical gowns with intricate embellishments, sculptural bodices and cage corsets, and delicate tulle regalia laden with pearls, feathers, and crystals.
The stage was also lit up by the performances of The Netherlands’ R&B artist Jaël and international burlesque artist Flowerbomb. As for the music, guests partied the night away with the beats of Filipino DJs Marga on the Mic, Emel Rowe, Euric, and Nix Damn P.
“The stars definitely aligned for one special night,” Mond said. “[I feel] a full spectra of emotions as we look back at the most opulent Halloween Ball that Manila has ever seen. Thank you to our guests who came from all over the world, and who put so much thought and effort into their costumes. What a unique way to celebrate Filipino fashion and creativity.”