Designer Oliver Tolentino’s Couture Featured in America’s Next Top Model Premiere

Designer Oliver Tolentino at the Global Green USA pre-Oscar event
(Photo by Sthanlee B. Mirador)

LOS ANGELES—Fresh from his successful stint on the “green carpet” at the Global Green USA pre-Oscar event where he was the first ever fashion designer featured, Filipino Oliver Tolentino added another feather to his cap when America’s Next Top Model’s Cycle 18, billed “The British Invasion,” highlighted his creations in its premiere.

“It is such an honor to be a part of a show that is followed by people in the modeling and fashion world, and especially in the Philippines,” remarked Oliver.

When we attended the exclusive event, we were impressed by the designs that Oliver created for the British and the American models.

In fall 2011, America’s Next Top Model put out a public announcement calling for fans of the show to come out to Universal Citywalk in Hollywood to witness a “Fierce Parade & Fashion Show featuring the designs of Oliver Tolentino.”

Oliver, who had about half a dozen dresses featured in the Pink’s Hot Dogs restaurant photo shoot in ANTM's cycle 17, apparently caught the eye of the producers, who asked him to come back for the new season’s opener. Previous season premiere shows have featured only the biggest of international designers, so it's definitely a proud moment for Filipinos to have Oliver’s designs showcased.

From left to right: Actor Clifford Banagle, Janet Nepales, and Elgeen Nepales at the recently held America's Next Top Model event
(Photo by Janet R. Nepales)

At the recently concluded Global Green USA 9th Annual Pre-Oscar Party in Hollywood, nine models--including Oliver’s muse, Tutay Maristela--wore his eco couture among the celebrity-filled crowd. His creations--made from piña, abaca, Philippine silk, water lily, jute, and fresh pearls--impressed the attendees, many of whom had never seen dresses made from such eco-friendly materials.

Past Golden Globe nominee Emmy Rossum wore a yellow dress made of pineapple leaves, Manila hemp, and Philippine silk.  The dress became an Internet sensation, and InStyle chose it as one of its “Looks of the Day.” Meanwhile, The New York Post featured it as its “Look of the Week” in its prestigious Sunday issue.

Actress Maggie Grace also wore a pineapple fiber dress made by Oliver. It was featured in a number of fashion websites as well.

So what’s next for the busy Oliver?

“Come and join me at the San Diego Women’s Week on March 31st where I will be the first ever fashion designer featured,” he told us.

Another Proud Pinoy moment!

Email the writer at jrnepales_624@yahoo.com for your comments or questions.