A new wave of creativity and inclusivity makes headlines in Philippine fashion. Style Conquest, a dynamic platform dedicated to providing budding fashion designers with invaluable exposure, wrapped up June with a fashion show at the Green Sun Hotel in Makati.

The event, a seamless fusion of fashion and entertainment, featured the latest collections from esteemed designers and promising iAcademy talents. P-pop sensations G22, VXON, AJAA, YES MY LOVE (YML), and Viva artist Rabin Angeles graced the catwalk, showcasing the latest trends. Their dynamic presence and charisma enthralled the audience with their star power.

The brainchild of Richard Anthony C. Baldoza, known fondly in the industry as Chardy, Style Conquest aims to support emerging talents in fashion.

The inspiration for advocacy came during a nostalgic drive to Tagaytay. Chardy and his friend, fashion designer Edrick Paz, reminisced about the golden era of Philippine fashion, a time when multiple shows lit up the week, connecting designers, models, and fashion enthusiasts alike.

Chardy has observed a significant shift in the post-pandemic era. “Now, post-pandemic, there are still shows, but many of these are very difficult for aspiring and new designers to penetrate,” says the CEO of R PR and Production. “The high costs and necessary connections often act as barriers, stifling fresh talent. Thus, the idea of Style Conquest was born, a cheaper and more accessible platform for emerging designers.”

Style Conquest’s commitment to supporting new talent is evident, especially with its collaboration with iAcademy. By providing a comprehensive production that covers all aspects of a fashion show, from logistics to execution, the event allows designers to focus solely on creating. “We encourage creativity and boost morale for these new designers to risk and pursue their dreams,” says Chardy.

True to its purpose, the show highlighted the remarkable debuts of iAcademy Fashion Design graduates, each presenting unique and captivating collections that left a lasting impression.

Joanna Santos wowed the audience with her avant-garde couture, marked by bold silhouettes and intricate detailing.

Jannah Collado channeled personal traumas and phobias into a grunge-inspired collection, underscoring fashion’s transformative power.

Abby Fernandez captivated with streetwear that melded Japanese cultural elements and urban flair, highlighting both creativity and sustainability.

Ellyn Denubo’s experimental designs featured unconventional cuts and materials, offering a fresh take on self-expression.

lf-expression. Megan Davies showcased a harmonious blend of modern aesthetics and timeless elegance while Elene Mariano infused her creations with a contemporary twist on cultural heritage.

y twist on cultural heritage. Inclusivity is a cornerstone of Style Conquest, shunning the traditional standards of beauty that often dominate fashion shows. “We let the designers decide who they want and treat each and every one of them like supermodels,” Chardy emphasizes. This approach ensures a diverse and vibrant representation, breaking down barriers and promoting acceptance within the industry. The selection of designers and PPop groups for the inaugural Style Conquest was rooted in Chardy’s extensive network. There were no stringent criteria, allowing for a natural and organic showcase of talent. This openness resulted in a style spectacle where models of varied looks and sizes graced the runway, embodying the true spirit of diversity.

The impact of the catwalk presentation on the local fashion scene is already being felt. “Five days after the show, we’ve received news that organizations and businesses are already contacting our designers for partnerships and orders,” Chardy reveals. This immediate response underscores the event’s success in providing much-needed exposure for fledgling designers.

On the other hand, established designers, including Paul Matt, Edrick Paz, JM Rosario, Camille Besacruz, Emanuel Riñoza, Kein Dumlao, Nash August, and Basil Malicsi, played a pivotal role in complementing the creations of up-and-coming talents.

The eclectic mix of quirky and avantgarde designs challenged models to step out of their comfort zones. “Male models were chosen to wear hyper femme pieces that they normally would not wear,” Chardy notes. This experience not only enriched the models’ portfolios but also showcased their adaptability.

For the audience and media, the first Style Conquest was an eye-opener. “We were very unprepared for the number of people coming to watch and the care of the media,” admits Chardy. These experiences, however, are shaping the future of the event, ensuring better organization and service in upcoming shows.

Looking ahead, Style Conquest is set to become an annual highlight on the fashion calendar. With a long-term partnership with iAcademy, the catwalk presentation will continue to serve as a launchpad for graduating students. Meanwhile, the October edition of Style Conquest will open doors for designers beyond the academic sphere.

“Take the risk. Embrace your true self. Step boldly toward your dreams. Opportunity knocks only once,” Chardy advises, offering words of wisdom to aspiring designers. Style Conquest stands as a testament to this philosophy, proving that with passion and perseverance, the runway is within reach for everyone.