Exhibiting opulence and artistry, celebrated Filipino fashion designer Michael Leyva unveiled his much-anticipated Couture 2026 collection at the prestigious Peninsula Manila, aligning perfectly with the hotel’s annual and highly anticipated wedding fair.
Amid the grand aesthetics and timeless elegance of The Peninsula’s august halls, Leyva’s vision unfolded in a symphony of style, his latest creations sweeping down the runway to a captivated audience.
Known for his flair for the romantic and the dramatic, Leyva’s new collection was nothing short of breathtaking. Each piece told a story, woven through meticulously chosen textures, layered silhouettes, and color palettes that transitioned from soft bridal whites to bold jewel tones.
“This collection is a fruit of hard work and passion,” Leyva shared, visibly moved by the moment. And it showed — every gown glowed with the kind of splendor only achieved through tireless dedication and a deep understanding of couture craftsmanship.
Guests at the event, including Manila’s top fashion editors, socialites, and industry tastemakers, watched in awe as Leyva sent model after model down the runway in ethereal designs that danced with light.
From intricate hand-beading to voluminous skirts and sculptural veils, each garment demonstrated a reverence for tradition while pushing forward into modern elegance. Leyva’s staging at The Peninsula, a venue known for its luxury and history, was a deliberate choice.
The designer wanted to root his future-facing vision in a space that represented timeless Filipino sophistication. But even as he celebrated the local stage, Leyva made it clear that he was thinking bigger. “I have plans of going international,” Leyva revealed, hinting at ambitions that extend far beyond Manila’s glittering skyline.
Couture 2026 is not only a celebration of love and artistry; it’s a statement. With this collection, Leyva has positioned himself not just as a designer of beautiful gowns, but as a storyteller of global couture dreams. It’s a journey that begins in the Philippines but promises to unfold across the world’s most prestigious runways.
As the final model took her bow in a fiery crimson gown, a showstopper rich with texture and theatrical flair, the applause rose like a crescendo. It was more than admiration.
It was an acknowledgment of a designer stepping into a new era, carrying the hopes of a nation’s fashion future with every stitch. Michael Leyva has made his vow. And the world is ready to say “yes.”
Punto Lifestyle Team/Gerald Gloton
