Davao's Fashion Elite Spotlight Cloud Dancer at Lookbook 2026 Forecast Event
Residents of Davao City were treated to a vibrant preview of the latest fashion directions as the Pantone Color of the Year, Cloud Dancer, also known as Pantone 11-4201, took center stage during a spectacular runway presentation. The event, held at Ayala Malls Abreeza on January 24, 2026, captivated audiences with its forward-thinking designs and creative energy.
Showcasing Local Talent and Global Inspirations
Dubbed the Lookbook 2026 Fashion Forecast, this highly anticipated show featured models confidently strutting down the catwalk in an array of stunning outfits. The collections included pieces from both renowned international brands and the esteemed local designers of the Davao Fashion and Design Council, Inc. (DFDC). The presentation effectively highlighted upcoming seasonal trends, styles, and inspirations in clothing and apparel, with a predominant theme revolving around the subtle and elegant nuances of Cloud Dancer.
The DFDC members who showcased their artistic interpretations included a talented roster of designers: Aztec Barba, Dodjie Batu, Emi Englis, Bamba Limon, Edgar Buyan, Egay Ayag, Windel Mira, and Benjie Panizales. Each designer brought a unique and distinct creative perspective to the color, demonstrating the diversity and innovation within Davao's fashion community.
Creative Challenges and Innovative Solutions
Aztec Barba, one of the featured designers, shared insights into the creative process behind working with the color white, which is central to the Cloud Dancer palette. He described it as both a challenge and a significant opportunity for artistic expression.
"Since our inspiration is the color of the year, we have to play with white, and white is very complicated because it is immaculate. For my case, I was inspired to use lace, but I didn't want to use purely lace, so I incorporated denim in my creations. I had to make something new, modern yet with a classic vibe," Barba explained. This approach highlights the designers' ability to blend traditional elements with contemporary aesthetics, resulting in fresh and appealing fashion statements.
A Collaborative Effort with Broad Participation
In addition to the impressive displays by the DFDC designers, the fashion show also featured creations from fifteen local and international brands, all of which are tenants of Ayala Malls Abreeza. This inclusion provided a comprehensive view of current fashion trends and showcased the mall's commitment to supporting both local artisans and global fashion houses.
The Lookbook 2026 Fashion Forecast was successfully organized through a partnership between Ayala Malls Abreeza and the Davao Fashion and Design Council, Inc. This collaboration underscores the importance of community involvement and corporate support in promoting the arts and fashion industry in Davao City.
The event not only served as a platform for designers to present their work but also as an inspiration for fashion enthusiasts and the general public, offering a glimpse into the future of style and design in the region.
