Kris Aquino, in her stunning yellow gown at the Hollywood premiere of Crazy Rich Asians, looked very much like the royal character she played. No doubt Kris deserves the limelight. But now, let’s put the spotlight on the young designer who dressed her.
Michael Leyva was a Tourism graduate from the University of Santo Tomas who originally set his sights on becoming a flight attendant. The sudden shift in career was inspired by his brother, Brian, whom he lovingly calls, “his guardian angel, the wind beneath his wings that propels him to soar higher, unparalleled heights.” The untimely death of Brian prompted Michael to continue his brother’s dream of becoming a fashion designer.
The 28-year-old designer has since risen as one of the top designers to watch out for, with a list of clients featuring the biggest names in the showbiz and fashion industry, both local and abroad. Here are some of our favorite looks.
Rose Gown
Anne Curtis, one of Michael’s favorite muses, looked more like a pretty flower in this gown, with its flowing layered train which reminds us of rose petals.
Princess ball gown
This backless blush gown with feather-like bead work effectively cemented Kim Chiu as one of the best dressed during the 2017 Star Magic Ball.
Sultry and classy
Perfectly combining elegance and sensuality with its one-shouldered sleeve detail and a sultry see-through bottom, this gown complemented Pia Wurtzbach’s figure to a tee.
Dreamy indigo
Simple yet classy, this deep, rich colored gown with full-on intricate beadwork was donned by Arci Muñoz at the 2018 Guillermo Mendoza Awards.
World-class design
2017 Miss Universe India, Shraddha Shashidhar looked absolutely regal in this number, featuring a mermaid silhouette embellished with feathers and a sheer cape.
Did we miss your favorite Michael Leyva look? Let us know in the comments section.
Art by Marian Hukom
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