Maintaining peace, fostering good diplomatic relations, and representing their home country’s values are some of the responsibilities of foreign ambassadors and diplomats. Apart from their work at the embassies, they are also known for immersing themselves in their host country’s heritage through various events, whether cultural or philanthropic. A testament to this is the “Diplomats For A Cause” charity gala.
Led by SHOM (Spouses of Heads of Mission) and SM Retail, the charity gala took place at the Grand Ballroom of the Marriott Hotel on Oct. 8, 2024, shining a spotlight on Filipino fashion and its potential to uplift marginalized communities. The diplomatic community, Filipino cultural identity, and MSME-driven retail ingenuity all came together to show their support as ambassadors, diplomats, and their spouses gamely took to the runway, modeling pieces from SM Retail’s Kultura, SM Fashion, AXCS, and Fashion Forum.
Kicking off the style fest were foreign dignitaries in Kultura pieces. The ladies were visions of class and sophistication, wearing dresses with uniquely Filipino design elements. Spotted on the runway were terno pieces adorned with floral embroidery, while Filipiniana ensembles were made more striking with intricate lace skirts. The blazer-terno hybrid pieces merged the traditional with the contemporary through their sleek silhouettes and use of local textiles.
The gentlemen looked dashing in barong attire. In addition to classic barong styles, the male foreign dignitaries showcased modern interpretations of this traditional piece, featuring vibrant local tapestries and bold designs with bright colors and various geometric and callado motifs.
Glamor reigned supreme on the runway as female guests modeled elegant gowns from SM Fashion Forum. Adding sparkle to their gowns were exquisite accessories from AXCS’s “Karutora” collection.
It was captivating to see Philippine fashion apparel and accessories worn by foreign dignitaries. The event amply demonstrated the global reach of Philippine retail design. The foreign dignitaries enjoyed this brief departure from their “regular programming,” transforming into “United Nations of models.”
In addition to the fashion show, there was also a silent auction of Filipino artwork to support marginalized communities in the country. SHOM and the SM Group have done much to promote grassroots welfare, and this collaboration is just the latest effort. What was unique about the event was how it brought together foreign ambassadors and their spouses, heads of international institutions accredited in the Philippines, and ranking diplomats with their families—all ready to walk the catwalk in support of various advocacies.
Over the years, SHOM has dedicated its efforts to vulnerable women, children, and persons with disabilities across the country. It was a natural fit for them to partner with the SM Group. With SM Retail and Kultura, not only was national cultural identity and homegrown fashion on display but there was also strong support for local artisan communities and MSMEs, which form an integral part of Kultura’s regular supply chain.