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RAMON VALERA
National Artist for Fashion Design

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A standout piece in the displays was this dress, which Andre and Rajo consider to be the highlight of the entire exhibit. The embellished sleeves, created with obviously masterful beadwork, extends into a gorgeous 12-foot train.

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His phenomenal construction, beading, and design aesthetic have had a huge influence on generations of local talent, making him a true pillar of Philippine fashion. Valera was also known for his "close-open technique," which he used to surprise his audience. The wearer would be enveloped in mystery, and when she removed the covering, she would be revealed to be a masterpiece.

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Valera, born on August 31, 1912, in Abra, is the Philippines’ first National Artist for Fashion Design. He finished his primary and secondary education in La Salle but dropped out of his first year in college at FEU due to financial problems.

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Barbara Perez in a Ramon Valera wedding gown. Sampaguita buds decorate the coronet and cascade toward the hem.

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Valera never had any formal training in fashion design, but his works have been the standard of fashion students for intricate sewing, embroidery, and handiwork.

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One of his most publicized designs was a gown worn by Imelda Marcos on a state visit to Iran. He followed the pattern of an elaborate necklace and repeated it on her gown.

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He was commended for his ingenuity and craftsmanship, for revolutionizing national costume, for magnificent embroidery and beadwork, and for translating Philippine motifs into modern terms.