From glamorous dresses to sharply tailored menswear, his designs have graced some of the most celebrated runways for over a decade now. This time, however, he’s shifting the spotlight to something even more intricate and transformative — wedding gowns.
With his newest bridal couture collection, Odelon Simpao invites us into the world of waling-waling, a rare and exquisite orchid often dubbed as the “Queen of Philippine Flowers” for its beauty and cultural symbolism. The native bloom also happens to be the soul of his latest collection as seen in many of its silhouettes, textures and embellishments.
Taking all of three months to make, the collection features nine gowns fashioned from French lace and delicate tulle, and embellished with Swarovski crystals. But beyond the sparkle, there are also 3D floral appliqués, intricate embroidery and architectural silhouettes that flatter the female form.
“The collection features different silhouettes because it’s all about the woman’s body. I want to accentuate her form and curves,” Odelon explains. “The silhouettes aren’t avant-garde or experimental. They are classic and timeless—designed not to overshadow the bride’s beauty, but to elevate her innate charm.”
Odelon teamed up with photographer Charvin Valdez Torne and stylist Dave Sandoval to create a campaign that captures the magic of bridal couture.
“Brides want to see their most beautiful selves on their special day,” Odelon muses. “They have their own fantasy they want to fulfill.”
Learning from the masters
Born and raised in Cagayan de Oro, Odelon initially pursued a nursing degree while using his innate creativity on the side to make ends meet by designing accessories and blouses for friends. But his passion with fashion led him to connect with designer Frederick Peralta, one of his earliest mentors.
Teeming with grit and an undying dream, Odelon left his hometown for Manila, where he trained under both Peralta and Jojie Lloren — two esteemed names in Philippine fashion. There, he learned not just technique, but also the artistry and finer points of design needed to bring his vision to life.
“I’m very fortunate that I was able to work with and learn from the best,” Odelon says.
Breaking into the local fashion scene, he began with fromal menswear. For two years, he worked for a brand, serving as its designer and head of creatives, reimagining barongs and suits with a contemporary flair.
In the 2010 Philippine Fashion Week, he showcased his modern take on men’s fashion with his collection “Abstract Illusion.” It included an all-black ensemble of men’s suits making use of digital prints.
“During the time, nobody was doing menswear full-time. Designers would include one or two men’s pieces in their collections, but no one was dedicating an entire collection to it,” he recalls. “That was a niche market.”
Odelon eventually ventured into womenswear, debuting bold and printed looks in a 2014 Canadian fashion show and exploring linear aesthetics in his 2016 spring-summer collection. A major milestone came when he began designing for television and film, most notably Marian Rivera in Marimar.—by Franchesca L. Tuazon
To learn more about Odelon Simpao Weddings, visit @odelonsimpaocouture on Instagram or email odelonsimpao@gmail.com.
