Unlike many other fashion creatives, Michael Leyva’s story began on a different note. He never planned to become a fashion designer. However, in 2012, he followed in the footsteps of his late brother, Brian Leyva, and since then has dressed some of the most stylish women in the Philippines.
Among Michael’s current muses is Filipino style icon and actress Heart Evangelista, who has been spotted wearing his designs during her appearances at international fashion weeks. In one of her past appearances, she donned an all-white tea-length dress with folded round petals lining the hem of the sleeves and skirt. This design beautifully merged the classic with the contemporary, featuring a pristine, sleek silhouette paired with playful details. Now, anyone can emulate that style as the fashion designer collaborates with local retail brand Plains and Prints for a chic collection that celebrates modern sophistication, dynamic prints, and fall hues.
Earlier this month, Michael and Plains and Prints unveiled their collaboration at the BGC Immersive in One Bonifacio High Street, Taguig City. The collection consists of 37 pieces, ranging from dresses and separates to jumpsuits, offering women fresh options for both everyday wear and special occasions.
“I created a collection that best represents my [work], while also aligning with the Plains and Prints clothing line,” Michael said. “As a designer in the Philippines, it has always been my lifelong dream to collaborate with the country’s top ready-to-wear brand. If you’ve had the chance to collaborate with them, you’ve already made it.”
BGC Immersive’s graphic projections provided the perfect backdrop to Michael’s collection. The show opened with pieces adorned with abstract prints, presented through refined silhouettes. Michael elevated the jumpsuit with crisscross pleats and drapery details, while his delicate dresses played with light and shadow through lacework. His tops, which reimagined the '20s flapper silhouette, and his tailored pants with sarong elements, were simple yet imbued with dramatic flair. Remember the dress Heart wore? It has been reimagined as a two-piece set in burgundy, white, and black.
In keeping with the brand and designer's mission to embrace diversity, the pieces were modeled by muses of various sizes and beauty. Also gracing the runway were Michael’s notable muses, including Dr. Aivee Teo, Tootsy Angara, Audrey Tan Zubiri, and Ma. Anna Pimentel, to name a few.
“Fashion is amazing,” the designer said. “It allows us to express who we are through the outfits we wear daily or to special events.”
The “Plains and Prints x Michael Leyva” collection is now available in stores and on the brand’s official website.