Kilusan: Thian Rodriguez Unveils FW 2023 Collection
SCENE: A dauntless troop of warriors, sartorially sauntering after epic warfare. Certainly, this was the best way to recount THIAN RODRIGUEZ’s outing of the Fall-Winter 2023 Collection. The whole way through, each piece descended remarkably on the runway. The whole room at KMC One Ayala applauded as Rodriguez ended the Kaugmaon Fashion Show on a high note with his Kilusan collection.
KAUGMAON fuses Fashion and Philanthropy
The confluence of up-and-coming fashion artisans blessed the halls of KMC One Ayala. Each of them continues to redefine the excellence of Philippine fashion from pieces of jewelry to exciting ensembles. FaDAL and FAMph artisans show how it is done—showcasing their design prowess. Thus, pushing the boundaries of the Philippine fashion scene.
Each artisan successfully unveiled the beauty and tradition of Philippine fashion while adding their unique contemporary flair. This collaborative effort of FaDAL, FAMph, and KMC Solutions joined forces with their shared vision and passion. Uplifting and making a difference in the lives of the children of A Child Dream’s Foundation.
Thian Rodriguez’ Kilusan Collection
Intimate, and sartorially risqué. This is how the Kilusan collection emanated on the runway last May 10, 2023. Rodriguez always delivers when it comes to bringing a unique approach in his collections. Something that is ‘out-there’ yet in harmony with the house codes’ persona. The house continues to make a statement. Don’t you just love it when a designer iterates a familiar theme from one collection to another? This is how Rodriguez creates a positive feedback loop from his Spring Summer 2023 to his Fall 2023 collection. Albeit the intent to bring something new to the table, it is still noteworthy when artisans unspool a familiar design narrative from his past collection to the present. It extends the theme and design narrative, allowing people to immerse themselves in an ‘era’ and embrace its essence.
On the runway, a slew of Thian’s statement leather pieces emerged. Naturally, this won’t be a Thian Rodriguez Manila collection without leather! The collection started boldly with the plaid prints, metal hardware studded on leather pieces, and ingeniously crafted and tailored.
Several pieces from this Kilusan collection featured chic looks that urged Killa Kushla to snap photos. Later on, gushed over on her IG story expressing her desire to be a part of Thian Rodriguez’ Kilusan army.
A solid-structured white vinyl bustier outlined with metal detailing struck everyone in the room. Paired with a plaid asymmetrical skirt made of Binakol fabric. This was one of the looks to steal from the collection. Rodriguez also adds utilitarian flair with a coordinated vest and mini skirt. Made of the same material: binakol fabric and leather. The collection also featured a chain dress, cropped top with 3D rosettes appliqué. Immensely showcasing craftsmanship through the impeccable execution of Thian’s vision.
Moreover, an empire waist mini dress that features an ultra low-cut neckline—leather lapel, and panels on the skirt utterly creates a poster look for a stately brazen woman of the future. A nod to the past was also treated with Thian’s contemporary flair through an ensemble that features a ’60s mod frock.
Exclusive Interview with Thian Rodriguez
Subsequently, Village Pipol Magazine had the chance to meet the designer himself during the post-show soiree at KMC One Ayala. Clad in a usual pared-down artisan look—In his high spirit–Rodriguez replies to each’s congratulatory lauds as he ambles around the room making sure to accommodate his guests. Luckily, he made a brief stop to say ‘Hi’ to Village Pipol. When asked about the collection’s theme. He boldly shared his family’s distressing experience of going through his mother’s diagnosis of breast cancer. Which later on turned out positive as after the operation, the doctor found out there was none.
Yung process ng sadness, nung disappointment, na anytime pwede mawala sa’yo yung mom mo–yung process ng depression, dun nanggaling kung bakit gano’n katapang yung collection ko. Kasi as his son, I had to be strong.
Thian Rodriguez
He also highlighted this collection named as Kilusan. Resembling dauntless emotions while going through trepidation. Indeed, one can refer to this collection as deeply personal to Thian. Where he impeccably translated his emotions and experience into his artistry. How this collection concluded was also a pure perfection with the arrival of the ferocious coven queen, Iza Giron McCullough draped in an all-black gown. Almost like a scene reminiscent of a climatic moment of a film. when you finally meet the cult leader who orchestrated all the chaos. In this case, it was a sartorial sublime chaos.
Meanwhile, the creator-in-chief of FaDAL Levenson Rodriguez exudes sheer delight for the success of the concluded event. He also looks forward to the upcoming fashion week event bringing artisans of FaDAL Manila, Visayas, and Mindanao to showcase their artistic prowess next year, in April 2024.
