Must know Mang Ben

Exhibit on the masterpieces of Ben Farrales to open this month

Fa physical exhibition on some of the most desired pieces in Philippine fashion by the legendary couturier Ben Farrales, opens on Friday, May 27, on the 12th floor Main Gallery of the Design and Arts Campus, De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde. Known as the dean of Philippine fashion, Farrales had been considered as an artist ahead of his time since he stepped into the industry in the 1950s. His 60 years of success shone the light signature Muslim-inspired gowns, traditional ternos, and sophisticated traje de as well as a series of contemporary loungewear, cocktail dresses, and draped frocks. With over 200 runway shows here and abroad, he played his role to the hilt in strengthening the identity of local fashion on the global map. Produced by the Center for Campus Art (CCA) of De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, the exhibition showcases an assemblage of Filipiniana, beaded ball gowns, pleated dresses, satin garments, and single items from skirts to capes. These all demonstrate the outstanding craftsmanship, as well as the range of artistry and talent, of the esteemed designer.

“The collection was a gift from the family of Ben Farrales,” says curator and Benilde CCA director Architect Gerry Torres. “His niece-in-law, Cynthia Pendatun, works at De La Salle University and, through Lasallian East Asia District brother visitor Br. Armin Luistro FSC, contacted Benilde president Br. Edmundo Fernandez

FSC to offer it to us.”

Sixty years of Ben Farrales shone the light on signature Muslim-inspired gowns, traditional ternos, and sophisticated traje de mestizas as well as a series of contemporary loungewear, cocktail dresses, and draped frocks.

Forty pieces from this exemplar body of work form part of the gallery.

The exhibition likewise features 40 14-inch miniature designs by Benilde Fashion Design and Merchandising (FDM) students, inspired by the works of the late icon. These creations were made from home through the guidance of awardwinning couture doll dressmaker Cholo Ayuyao and the fashion educators and mentors of the Benilde FDM program.

will be on view until Sept. 10, 2022 at the 12F Main Gallery of the Design and Arts Campus, De La SalleCollege of Saint Benilde, 950 Pablo Ocampo Street, Malate, Manila.