The designer pays tribute to his late brother in a garden of elegant designs through a captivating fashion show held as part of Weddings at The Peninsula Manila.
By FRANCHESCA L. TUAZON
Big names such as First Lady Liza Marcos, Senate President Chiz Escudero and fashion icon Heart Evangelista, along with a number of ambassadors and other VIPs gathered under The Pen’s iconic Abueva sun to see Michael Leyva’s Couture 2026 Collection, which also doubled as a heartfelt tribute to the designer’s late brother Brian Leyva.
(From left) Heart Evangelista, Senate President Chiz Escudero, First Lady Liza Marcos and PeopleAsia’s editor-in-chief Joanne Rae Ramirez
Dubbed “Memoria ng Hardin” (Memory of the Garden), the show was inspired by nostalgia, love and remembrance that represent the beauty and fragility of life. Michael also shared that every detail in the collection embodies “the beauty, joy and warmth that his brother, Brian, brought into his life.”
Known for his detailed beadwork, Michael took a different approach this time around, as the talented designer focused on playing with fabric textures. The result is a symphony of elegantly layered numbers that can look flowing and structured, depending on the wearer’s movements.
Michael Leyva’s designs
One of the most memorable pieces was the unique red wedding gown — a bold, fiery dress with a voluminous skirt, rich texture and a matching red veil that flowed like flames. “It must have been love but it’s over now. She’s happy because she’s celebrating and she’s in red,” Michael told PeopleAsia editor-in-chief Joanne Rae Ramirez.
Michael Leyva’s designs
Of course, the venue added to the elegance of the night. “This is just an extension of how we’ve always been supporting the arts of the Philippines,” said The Peninsula Manila’s PR director Mariano Garchitorena. “Michael Leyva is one of the very best, one of the youngest, but most successful, most talented designers in the Philippines right now. With The Peninsula and Michael Leyva, I think it’s a marriage made in heaven.”
