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Manila Bulletin devider Lifestyle devider Fashion and Beauty devider Cary Santiago evokes wild opulence through a fauna-inspired collection

Cary Santiago evokes wild opulence through a fauna-inspired collection

Published Sep 18, 2025 09:33 am
Nature is a true artist. So great is its power that it has created animals in myriad colors, textures, and forms. Beyond the beings that walk and fly across its surface, it has also forged jewels and precious stones beneath its mantle. This abundance of natural beauty has long been a source of inspiration for fashion brands and designers. This time, two Cebuano icons have come together to celebrate it through an untamed showcase of glamour and Filipino artistry.
Cary Santiago and Jennifer Ty
Cary Santiago and Jennifer Ty
For its 2025 showcase in Manila, homegrown fine jewelry brand Diagold tapped Cebuano fashion designer Cary Santiago to create a collection in gratitude for the support the jeweler has received. The 50-piece line was officially unveiled on Sept. 11, 2025, at Shangri-La The Fort in Taguig City.
“Cary is a visionary. His work goes beyond fashion—it tells stories, evokes emotions, and brings out the strength and grace of every woman who wears his creations,” said Jennifer Ty, CEO of Diagold. “This night is a celebration of what makes us truly Filipino: our creativity, craftsmanship, and deep love for beauty.”
Cary admitted that crafting a collection of this scale required Herculean effort. His creative process began with his inspiration—the animal kingdom. “Those that fly, run, crawl,” Cary mused. “I love the patterns of animal skin. I love to mimic the texture of reptile skin, translating it through embossed fabrics. I also love the feathery softness of birds, which I translated through intricate, layered fabrics.”
Rendered in a striking palette of gold, silver, black, and white, the collection highlights Cary’s signature artistry—sculptural details, dramatic silhouettes, and richly layered textures. His opening look was a gilded gown adorned with roosters locked in mid-fight. Animal prints such as leopard rosettes and zebra stripes were reimagined through sequins and embellishments. Back details featured birds and lizards, creating the illusion of them carrying the gowns. His avian creations were light and dreamy, with textured fabrics crafted to resemble plumes.
Adding brilliance to Cary’s designs were pieces from Diagold’s latest collection. Dubbed “Crown Jewels,” the line celebrates the grandeur of bold, vibrant stones—rubies in fiery crimson, sapphires in deep royal blue, emeralds in lush green, and yellow diamonds that glisten with golden light.
“This is more than a fashion show,” Jennifer said. “It is a moment that honors the artistry of Cary Santiago, celebrates Diagold’s design legacy, and redefines what it means to champion Filipino luxury.”
“This collaboration feels deeply personal,” Cary added. “Both Diagold and I are rooted in the same values: attention to detail, reverence for heritage, and a commitment to beauty that endures.”
Watch the video below to see the collection in motion:

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fashion and beauty jewelry Diagold Cary Santiago
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