Oliver Tolentino marks his return with back-to-back shows in Los Angeles

By Tricia Quintero
December 03, 2021

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Philippine fashion is indeed thriving. These days, many Filipino designers are waving the yellow, red, and blue flag all over the world with distinct styles and perspectives, but perhaps no designer has owned the Los Angeles scene the way Oliver Tolentino does. He proved just that once again when he closed the red carpet night at Los Angeles Fashion Week and was part of the first Kornit Fashion Week LA.

In his LAFW show held last October 8 at the rooftop of Petersen Automotive Museum, Tolentino showcased his new 33-piece collection that fuses his Filipino heritage and the glamour of his homebase, Beverly Hills. This also marked his return to fashion shows since the pandemic, and he surely delivered.

His muse and former Supermodel of the World Philippines Tutay Maristela opened his LAFW show wearing a stunning red ball gown while Miss Universe Philippines 2019 Gazini Granados made her LA runway debut with a red corded lace modern long-sleeved terno embellished with beaded rosettes. The rest of his collection flowed through with gowns and dresses in hues of pinks, gold, silver, and blue.

Shortly after his show at LAFW, Tolentinto once again hit it off at the Kornit Fashion Week last November 4. He presented a new 30-piece collection. This time, sustainable fashion and Filipino glamour were the dominant elements in his runway with eco-couture piña clothing and outfits made with strips of fabric remnants like leftover lace and beadings and cutouts from past-production runs. 

When his LA show focused on hues of red and metallic colors, his KFWLA show showcased bright and pastel colors. In addition to that, the models casted were in celebration of all women in all shapes, sizes, colors, and ethnicities. A Muslim model walked in a gown with matching hijab to exemplify this diversity. 

With his artistry, long list of clientele, and fashion shows being back, we can surely expect to see more of Oliver Tolentino--whether on the runway or in red carpets. 

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