Pink Barbies for a cause
Pink was the dominant color last month as the world took part in Pink October, also known as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Those fighting the battle against this disease found different ways to support the cause.
Through fashion, SM City Cebu and ICanServe Foundation Inc. together with the University of San Carlos School of Fine Arts and Design-Fashion Design and Fashion Association of Cebu’s Elite Talents, once more brought back the Pink Barbie exhibit. The exhibit was a pink carpet affair that showcased 34 pink-colored dressed Barbie dolls clothed in designs by graduating students of USC Safad-Fashion Design and Facets bearing the theme “Old Hollywood Glam.” By adopting a specially designed gown Barbie, one gets to help support the cause as proceeds go to ICanServe, a non-stock, non-profit organization that aims to help women be aware and educated about breast cancer.
Of the 34 designs, Stef Tirado’s creation won first place.
“It feels amazing. But for me, winning is just the cherry on top. The satisfaction of helping ICanServe is more than I can ask for,” she said. Stef was drawn to the opulence and glamour of post-war Hollywood. For her design, she used polka dot organza and silk embellished with pearls, crystals and lace trimmings. “During the war, fabric for clothes had to be rationed so when it ended, people wanted to be glamorous again and that’s when Dior introduced his ‘new look.’”
Winning second place was Celine Borromeo with her design made with crinolace, American tulle and mini flowerettes to complete the look.
“My inspiration was Dior in the 1950s. But I translated my design in a lighter, more ethereal way,” said Celine.
Pearl Arandia won third place for her design made by using beads, crystals and sequins which is a change as she described that she’s used lace and embroidery for the past four years that she’s joined Pink Barbie.
“I was inspired with one of Christian Dior’s classic pieces: the Junon dress. It’s like petals in a skirt with ombré sequins and beads,” said Pearl.
The Pink Barbie exhibit was at The Northwing Atrium of SM City Cebu and ran from Oct. 15 to. 21.