It’s so exciting to hear the good news that Filipino fashion designer Francis Libiran is returning to America’s Next Top Model. I met Francis in Portland during our Simply the Best – The Luisa Marshall Show coverage of US-Philippines Society’s “Philippines on the Runway” on October 9th, 2013 at the Vigor Industrial Shipyard, Swan Island, Portland, Oregon. The fashion show also features my good friends, Filipino designers Alan Del Rosario and David Tupaz along with Anthony Cruz Legarda.
Philippines on the Runway After Party, Francis Libiran, Allan Del Rosario, Luisa Marshall, actors Matt Heller and Reggie Lee. Photo courtesy of Simply the Best TV Show
An architecture graduate of University of Santo Tomas before he pursued his real passion for fashion at the Fashion Institute of the Philippines, Libiran was already featured in America’s Next Top Model in 2012 for his Hello Kitty Couture Collection. His collection was so amazing & impressive that he also designed dresses and gowns for Top Model creator and host Tyra Banks.
In June 2013, Francis Libiran also showcased his 100 Collection in an exhibit and fashion show. He became the highlight in the very first Canada Philippine Fashion Week in Toronto, Canada at the Roy Thomson Hall.
Francis Libiran designs in Toronto back in 2014.
In that same year, Francis Libiran was the only representative of the Philippines in the annual fashion show in Tokyo, Japan, the Sakura Collection held at the Tokyo Tower.
The Philippines also celebrated when Francis Libiran creation worn by Megan Young won best gown at the Miss World 2013 in which Young was also crowned as the winner.
Miss World Megan Young. Image courtesy of Jory Rivera.
Francis Libiran’s love for fashion started at a very early age with the influence of his mother on personal and elegant style. His love for fashion and art is overpowering. I know he is happy and proud to bring honor to the Philippines.
I was also told the happy news that Libiran just got engaged and now he’s the featured designer in an upcoming episode of “America’s Next Top Model”.
Congratulations to Francis.
Catch Francis Libiran on the 12th episode of America’s Next Top Model Cycle 22 as we celebrate another Philippine Pride moment.
