17 September 2014 – After creating a niche for himself in West Coast fashion, Las Vegas-based haute couture Filipino designer David Tupaz debuted his Spring collection in New York Fashion Week (NYFW) at the Kalayaan Hall of the Philippine Center on September 5 with the support of producers Dr. Richard Holsman and Mr. Elton Lugay.
Tupaz’s classic dresses featuring Philippine-handmade embroidery have been on display at the Philippine Center 5th Avenue show windows since a week prior, to drum up interest for the event.
The runway show was preceded by a reception-exhibition at the Gallery-Lobby, where David’s vintage collections were on display. Many of the pieces that were part of the exhibit were worn by his Hollywood clients including Patti Austin, Jane Seymour, Kris Kardashian Jenner, Julia Roberts, Goldie Hawn, Kate Hudson, and Annette Bening, just to name a few.
Philippine Consul General Mario De Leon delivered the opening remarks during the reception, and welcomed David back to New York, where his fashion career started. He acknowledged the designer’s effort in incorporating Filipino craftsmanship in his work, subcontracting artisans in the Philippines for intricate beadwork and meticulous embroidery. He expressed the Consulate’s wish for more Filipino designers to break into the mainstream US fashion industry and promote Philippine fashion, fabrics, and artistry, during New York Fashion Week.
On his part, David said that his premiere in NYFW is not just a personal win, but a win for the whole Filipino community. He said, “I came here to New York with only a suitcase and a dream.” For him, the event is a culmination of that dream, and it also proves that Filipinos still believe in "Bayanihan", that it takes the concerted effort of the community and sincere desire to create something that will bring about positive developments in our people. David reminisced about his humble beginnings in New York, and his decision to move Westward because of his desire to be closer to Hollywood and cater to the stars.
Close friend and Cox Cable icon Steve Schorr flew all the way from Las Vegas to give his support to David on his New York debut.
The show that followed featured David’s ready-to-wear creations combining feminine silhouettes with contemporary lines and modern prints and textures in the dresses, pant suits and summer ensembles that were paraded on the runway. The audience members were awed at many of the pieces, notably the intricately embroidered Filipiniana organza coats and veil dresses. END