Odelon Simpao has become a trusted name in fashion over the years, designing for some of the Philippines’ most celebrated stars, crafting dashing suits for men, and creating awe-inspiring pageant gowns. Now, he’s turning his attention to bridal wear with an exciting new collection that marks a significant milestone in his career.
Though this is not Odelon’s first venture into wedding fashion, his upcoming bridal couture collection takes a deeper dive into his roots and creative evolution. This collection not only captures the essence of elegance but also integrates a key symbol of Filipino heritage — the waling-waling flower.
A Tribute to Filipino Heritage
The waling-waling, often referred to as the “Queen of Philippine Flowers,” is known for its grace, beauty, and vibrant colors, which Odelon has skillfully incorporated into his designs. This flower’s delicate petals and intricate details became the perfect inspiration for a wedding collection that blends traditional Filipino motifs with modern sophistication. His goal for this collection was clear: to celebrate the natural beauty of Filipino culture while crafting timeless, elegant pieces that would stand the test of time.
Crafting with Care and Precision
Over the course of three months, Odelon meticulously worked with luxurious materials such as French lace, tulle, and Swarovski crystals. The result? A bridal couture collection featuring nine breathtaking pieces. Each design is rich with intricate floral embroideries, 3D floral appliqués, and thousands of shimmering crystals, showcasing his commitment to high craftsmanship. Odelon’s focus is clear: accentuating the bride’s natural beauty with timeless silhouettes that enhance a woman’s form, rather than overshadowing it.
As Odelon explains, the collection aims to emphasize the woman’s figure: “The silhouettes aren’t avant-garde or experimental. They are classic and timeless — designed not to overshadow the bride’s beauty, but to elevate her innate charm.” From voluminous ball gowns to sleek column dresses with detachable trains, each gown offers a unique approach to bridal elegance, enhancing every bride’s individual style.
The Campaign Shoot: A Glimpse of Happily Ever After
To bring this bridal vision to life, Odelon collaborated with photographer Charvin Valdez Torne and stylist Dave Sandoval for a campaign that perfectly reflects the collection’s essence. In the shoot, the gowns are showcased against a dreamy backdrop of soft drapes, with the warm glow of a crystal chandelier casting an ethereal light on the exquisite embellishments. The result is a breathtaking display of how an Odelon Simpao wedding dress could turn a bride’s dream into reality.
Odelon’s muses in the campaign, each wearing one of his bridal creations, are the epitome of elegance. Their gowns, rich in floral detailing and Swarovski crystals, illuminate the campaign’s romantic ambiance. As Odelon puts it, “Brides want to see their most beautiful selves on their special day. They have their own fantasy they want to fulfill.”
A Journey Rooted in Passion and Determination
Odelon’s journey to becoming a celebrated designer wasn’t without its struggles. Born and raised in Cagayan de Oro, Odelon initially pursued a nursing degree in college. However, his passion for design remained strong, and he began selling accessories and blouses to his friends to support himself. This venture led him into the fashion community in Cagayan, where he met renowned designer Frederick Peralta.
Determined to pursue his dream, Odelon moved to Manila, where he further honed his skills under the mentorship of Peralta and other esteemed designers like Jojie Lloren. Under their guidance, he developed a deep understanding of the intricacies of bridal design, mastering techniques like beadwork, fabric manipulation, and appliqué work.
Odelon’s early experiences were a testament to his hard work and determination. He eventually made a name for himself in the local fashion scene, initially working with a men’s formal wear brand before transitioning into womenswear. His collections—especially in the 2010s—pushed the boundaries of fashion, introducing contemporary twists to traditional styles. His “Abstract Illusion” collection, for example, merged sharp tailoring with digital prints, and his sleek men’s suits stood out as a unique addition to the fashion world at the time.
A Signature Style and Expanding Repertoire
While Odelon initially gained recognition in menswear, his work with womenswear further expanded his creative horizons. In 2014, he showcased a modern take on power dressing in Canada, while his 2016 spring-summer collection played with linear forms and architectural shapes. His most notable career milestone came with his work in television and film, where he designed outfits for actress Marian Rivera in her iconic role in Marimar, a project that catapulted his work into the public eye.
Today, Odelon Simpao is a name synonymous with impeccable bridal couture, and his latest wedding collection stands as a testament to his growth as a designer. His intricate blend of Filipino heritage, modern elegance, and timeless design makes this new chapter in his career a powerful statement in the world of bridal fashion.
As Odelon continues to evolve and explore new avenues in design, one thing remains clear: his commitment to celebrating the beauty of Filipino culture while creating unforgettable, sophisticated fashion.
