Diplomacy by design at Vin d'Honneur 2025

There are ties that bind, and there are threads that bind. Some ironclad, some as gossamer as the strands of the piña fabric.

- JOANNE RAE M. RAMIREZ

Some in bold colors, and some in the gentlest of hues. Design, like diplomacy, weaves a tapestry of understanding, tolerance, cooperation.

And when you wear your host country's design on your sleeve, you become a mannequin for diplomacy.

In celebration of the 127th Anniversary of Independence Day, Filipino artistry and cultural pride, the country's top fashion designers created Filipiniana for members of the diplomatic corps and other dignitaries at a Vin d'Honneur at Malacañang Palace. Designers Avel Bacudio, Dennis Lustico, Francis Libiran, Jun Escario, Lulu Tan-Gan, Michael Leyva and Philip Rodriguez created bespoke pieces for the women ambassadors, showcasing the elegance and craftsmanship of Philippine fashion on a global stage, yet reflecting elements from the diplomats' home country. In a way, it was like a parade of nations—except that in the parade, diplomats of different nationalities wore Filipiniana.

Among the many cultural symbols of the Philippines, the terno stands out, as it stood out that night at Malacañang's Ceremonial Hall, whose curtains were parted for a view of the Pasig River.