From embellished dresses to sheer form-fitting pieces, the second day of BYS Fashion Week was all about modern sensuality interpreted through Neric Beltran and Chris Nick’s signature codes
On the second day of BYS Fashion Week, the audience witnessed a presentation that displayed harmony between two visually different collections. Filipino designers Chris Nick and Neric Beltran introduced pieces that merged timeless silhouettes with their signature codes and contemporary elements that embraced the fashion we have today, making both collections feel refreshingly youthful. Despite the obvious contrast between their respective designs, a sense of cohesiveness was noticeable, which was their own interpretation of a new sensuality.
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Neric Beltran
Known for his expertise in embellishments, Neric welcomed the second day with a presentation of bridal-inspired pieces. The collection was done in an all-white manner and showcased the versatility of his work in terms of his execution in construction and design.
The bridal collection exuded timeless elegance, from the separates to the silhouettes. However, a touch of modern sensuality was also present as the collection progressed with revealing designs that were done in sheer, while others were even more daring with their intimate coordinates. On top of that, mini hemlines were also included in the collection, which has recently emerged as a favored length.
A detail worth mentioning is Neric’s direction to elevate bridal wear through his signature beadwork, with some designs even finished in embellishments from top to bottom.
When asked what makes this collection different from his past designs, Neric shared that it was the idea to push for sustainability in fashion, which should include bridal wear. He expressed, “It’s timeless and handcrafted with sustainable elements. It’s nice to see that our industry is now incorporating sustainable practices, and my contribution is my continued and conscious effort in making sure I do my part.”
Chris Nick
Chris Nick presented an all-black collection that embraced the aesthetics of the New York City club scene. He stayed true to his DNA with his signature body-hugging, ultra-sultry, and feminine-masculine combination that he has been known for over the years.
Being an advocate for the cool girl look, Chris played around with design elements from the late 90s to early 2000s. Maxi skirts had low-waist detailings, while skin-showing ensembles were done in various ways, such as ruched sheer pieces and the cropped top-maxi skirt combination. As for the finishing touches that wouldn’t be a Chris Nick creation without it, his pieces included bows in different variations.
He then continued with his statement tank tops that he introduced in a recent fashion show, and Chris shared that he did that to highlight the concept of an edgier sensuality—a concept he likes to further explore in his designs. Despite his decision to not mass produce them, the designer shared that he was delighted with the positive response he received from the audience.
He has always been the type to combine contrasting concepts, hence the play between structures and fluidity in his collection. Chris explained, “I wanted to offer something different from the start. Something elegant, but [also] crazy sexy—two totally different worlds, which truly describe my own. That’s what I wanted to bring to the table.”
Day two of BYS Fashion Week offered us collections that perfectly encapsulated the distinct identities of the designers. Delicate elegance was championed through Neric’s line, while a brazen and seductive aura exuded from Chris’ designs. And despite the contrast, we were able to see how sensuality became an underlying concept between the two, interpreted with their signature codes.
Photography KIM SANTOS
