Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila Launches Festive Season the French Way

by Cook Magazine · December 22, 2019

Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila’s General Manager Puneet Dhawan, Designer Debbie Co, Philanthropist Tessa Prieto- Valdes, Designer Anthony Ramirez, Sofitel Philipine Plaza Manila’s PR Manager Margot Calimon

Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila celebrates festive season the French way with Art de Noël 2019. Reaching deeper into its roots and showcasing the allure of French style through modern gastronomy and art, Sofitel opened the glamorous fête with an angelic musical presentation by the Virlanie Foundation Children’s Choir followed by the lighting of the iconic 30-ft Christmas tree decked with lavish decors of gold, white, and silver styled by Jo Claravall. The main highlight of the evening was a haute couture fashion show by world-class designers Debbie Co and Anthony Ramirez, co-presented with Laura Mercier, Miladay Fine Jewels, and Staccato.

First Row from L-R , Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila’s Director of Food & Beverage, Anne Sophie Hurtaud, Executive Chef Nicolas Shadbolt, General Manager Puneet Dhawan, Philippine Plaza Holdings President Esteban Pena-Sy, Director of Finance Shirley Sinlao, Director of Talent & Culture Marivic Que and event host Gretchen Ho. Second Row from L-R , Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila’s Director of Engineering Andy Martinez, Director of Rooms Rory Dee, Director of Business Development Bingbing Lingao, Director of Guest Experience Michelle Olea, Resident Manager Christophe Bataille and Director of Marketing Communications Dave Pimentel.

Evoking her signature feminine, classic, and graceful touch in all her creations, Debbie Co started the sartorial presentation with her 11-piece collection inspired by the art exhibit at Atelier de Lumieres in Paris: Van Gogh, Starry Night created by Gianfranco Iannuzzi, Renato Gatto and Massimilano Siccardi—with the musical collaboration from Luca Lobgobardi.

She translated the interplay of light and shade from each painting through floral embroideries, rich laces and layers, pleating details, and exaggerated floral details complemented by radiant make-up by Laura Mercier, opulent diamond jewelry from Miladay and stylish footwear from Staccato. Closing Debbie Co’s presentation was her muse, philanthropist Tessa Prieto-Valdes, in a stunning snow-queen inspired ball gown reflecting the epitome of classic sophistication.

Virlanie Children’s Choir serenading the audience with their angelic voices

Armed with training in Fashion Design from Central Saint Martins in London and Parsons School of Design in Paris, Debbie was an Industrial Engineer by profession when she launched a career in fashion in 2006. She has since established her brand and dressed celebrities and influencers while specializing in made-to-measure dresses, gowns, and a prêt-à-porter collection.

Anthony Ramirez immediately shifted the atmosphere into a sensual one with his signature creations that are sexy, dynamic, with a flair for the dramatic— characterized by his impeccable technique in cut-outs and mastery in draping. For his latest collection, Anthony captures the youthfulness of every woman as they transition from teen to a woman in her prime. Infusing delicate femininity into intricately-tailored gowns, complemented by a modern, smoky make-up by Laura Mercier, his sartorial showcase is an allegory of classic elegance as it transcends time.

Courageously entering the unforgiving world of fashion with no formal training but brimming with pure talent, sheer determination and the strong will to fulfill his childhood dream, Anthony worked as an apprentice to master couturiers Angelo Estera and Maxie Cinco before launching his own label in 2009. He instantly caught the attention of the industry’s stylists, top celebrities and society figures, bringing his creations to Manila Fashion Festival and Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week.

In the most-awaited holiday of the year, guests may discover Le Marche de Noël at the grand lobby as it features seasonal favorites including chestnuts, mulled wine, pastries, holiday gifts and décor. The festivities continue with special holiday room packages for a luxurious retreat and unparalleled dining outlets including Spiral, Le Bar and Sunset Bar that will take gourmands to a glamorous journey of taste this yuletide season.

Celebrate the French Way at Sofitel Manila. For reservations and inquiries, please call (+632) 8-573.5555 or email H6308@sofitel.com.