When we think of Albert Andrada’s designs, it’s hard not to recall his iconic royal blue creation for Pia Wurtzbach at Miss Universe 2015. The winning look featured an elegant silhouette, showcasing sleek cuts and tasteful embellishments. This captures the Filipino designer’s signature style—always elegant, with flair added through adornment.
For his latest collection, a bridal line, Albert takes a different approach, opting for minimalist designs with delicate details. His goal was to put the spotlight on his brides, complementing their beauty with gowns that are polished yet playful. This collection debuted at the inaugural Antipolo Wedding Museum fair.
“My brides today want minimalist looks,” Albert tells Manila Bulletin Lifestyle. “So I wanted this collection to be different. I’m focusing more on silhouettes and cuts rather than embellishments. The collection is soft and refined.”
On the runway, the bridal gowns featured minimalist design elements while still making a bold impact. The challenge of creating gowns with minimal embellishments is that any flaws are easily visible. Yet Albert demonstrated his design mastery through clean lines, precise cuts, and meticulous attention to detail.
One standout look featured a gown with asymmetrical ruching, adding subtle intrigue to the silhouette. Another highlight was a high-low bubble ball gown crafted from liquid taffeta. The show’s finale featured the designer’s muse, Miss Universe Philippines 2020 Rabiya Mateo, dressed in an embellished gown with a grand skirt adorned with petal cutouts.
In addition to Albert’s creations, the Antipolo Wedding Museum showcased works by up-and-coming designers Rica Siena and Jez Amorado. Rica’s bridal collection featured fairy-tale-inspired pieces with floral appliqués and billowing sleeves. Jez, on the other hand, took an artistic approach, drawing inspiration from Gustav Klimt’s masterpieces.
The Antipolo Wedding Museum fair hosted over 80 of the finest bridal suppliers from Rizal during its two-day event at the Marikina Convention Center. Led by Madriaga’s Catering and Food Service, Inc., the bridal fair aims to further solidify the city’s standing as a top wedding destination.