For Manila's upper echelon, Puey Quiñones is a name synonymous with elegance, sophistication, and couture. Through the years, he has produced many stunning collections, making him one of the fashion luminaries that put Filipino style on the map abroad. He showcased that recently with his collection for First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos’ Goldenberg series and the contemporary barongs he made for Filipino athletes at the 19th Asian Games. Now, the Filipino fashion designer, who shuffles between Manila and Los Angeles, partners with retail giant Rustan's for an exquisite ready-to-wear collection that is all about merging local heritage with modern style.

The “Puey Quiñones x Rustan's” collection “captures the essence of couture and the modern Filipina's journey” and celebrates the “beauty of individuality.” The collection for men and women can be divided into three series.

The first is the Handpainted Series, where the panuelo for women and barong for men got a playful treatment. Delicate blooms adorned the women's pieces, while vibrant brushstrokes added flair to his modern barong pieces. Also highlighted in the collection are the men's polo shirts imbued with embellishments like bananas and hamburgers, among others, which are a nod to his Los Angeles lifestyle.

“I have to infuse some pop culture inspiration from Los Angeles,” Puey tells Manila Bulletin Lifestyle. “Adding quirkiness to the collection gives it a young vibe.”

Giving a sense of whimsy to his collection are his mushroom blouses and dresses. Available in dreamy blues, neutrals, and ivory tones, the pieces, with their billowing proportions, are imbued with sophisticated charm and drama.

Our favorites from his collection come from the Versatile line. As the name suggests, the collection centers on pieces that are diverse, timeless, and can be worn in many ways. It features his convertible sack dress and his version of the infinity dress, both with limitless possibilities for personal expression.

“The inspiration for the infinity dress started with a punda, the pillowcase,” the designer explains. “This is a dress that can be transformed in different ways. It is practical and sustainable. It is fun."

Puey describes working with Rustan's as an honor and a joyful experience. According to him, the upscale and luxury retail destination gave him full freedom in crafting the collection.

“Collaborating with Rustan's has been an exceptional experience," says Puey. “We've brought together the best of both worlds, and this collection is a testament to the passion and creativity of our teams.”

To know more about the “Puey Quiñones x Rustan's” collection, visit @rustansph on Instagram.

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