Fil-Am designer kicks off Los Angeles Fashion Week with pizzazz

LOS ANGELES—Fashion veteran Alexis Monsanto kicked off Los Angeles Fashion Week last month with his latest collection for the fall/winter season. Presented by Art Hearts Fashion, the Filipino American designer showcased his vibrant fall/winter 2024 designs, brimming with rich and colorful elegance.

Monsanto‘s creativity stood out as he transformed everyday clothes into bold statements of progress and change. “I put my heart into every piece I create for my collection, making sure they’re not just stylish but also practical and comfortable,” he told The Fil-Am Connection.

Victoria Mejia, another Fil-Am designer based in Los Angeles, is making waves in Hollywood with her eye-catching clutches crafted from shells and pearls. She commended Monsanto, whom she considers both a mentor and a friend, for capturing the essence of evolution in his designs. The show’s standout moment featured a model wearing a lace jumpsuit embellished with Yakan bridal makeup, embodying Monsanto’s modern interpretation of the traditional Malong dance.

​​Alexis Monsanto is joined by fellow Filipino American designers Victoria Mejia (left) and Amiel Noble, along with other event partners and models at the recently concluded LAFW. CONTRIBUTED

As a regularly featured designer at LAFW, Monsanto introduced a new line exclusively for Noble Creation, inspired by the rich heritage of the Muslim tribes of Mindanao for the first time. This collection offers a modern twist on Filipiniana attire by blending tribal and oceanic influences, complemented by luxury accessories designed by Mejia for her Viktorya Minaudière brand.

According to Alexis Monsanto, he enjoys presenting his collections at fashion weeks in cities like New York and Los Angeles as it provides him with an opportunity to exhibit his work to fashion enthusiasts and individuals who value quality and style. CONTRIBUTED

Monsanto’s dedication to promoting up-and-coming Filipino brands such as Noble Creations and Viktorya Minaudière highlights their growing influence in the global luxury industry. He gladly shared the spotlight with these talented designers, recognizing their value and supporting their inclusion on the runway.

An avid supporter of LGBTQ+ rights and a staunch volunteer for Project Angel Food, Monsanto is renowned for his elegant and refined fashion style. His collection features top-quality materials and intricate craftsmanship. “My garments may come at a higher price point due to my selection of only the finest fabrics and the meticulous attention I give to each design,” Monsanto emphasized, highlighting his commitment to excellence.

Six of the 20-piece collection from Alexis Monsanto’s F/W 2024 showcased at LAFW preview. CONTRIBUTED

The evening’s outfits showcased the designer’s talent for mixing allure with glamour, crafting timeless pieces that exude power and charm. The crowd responded enthusiastically to each look on the runway. Standout pieces included an ombre jusi tunic, a magenta top with Terno sleeves, a men’s Barong with laser cuts and luxurious outfits designed for everyone.

The show ended with a stunning kimono winter cover modeled by Olga Gurevich, captivating the audience.

Stylist Alejandro Garcia curated 20 looks for Monsanto, blending luxury sportswear with evening gowns full of meaning and stories. The event went beyond a typical runway show, offering a rich experience with stunning visuals by Christian Reasonda from Hiraya Media. The set design, music and accessories by Charlie Lapson, Jojo Bragais, and Boci Inc. enhanced the captivating ambiance of the evening.

“I love sharing my collections at fashion weeks in cities like New York and Los Angeles,” Monsanto said. “It’s a chance to showcase my work to fashion lovers and anyone who appreciates quality and style.”