The RadarThe MEGA Blog

The participants of the Eighth Young Designer’s Competition have never been more excited. With the awards night happening on March 24 at Edsa Shangri-La, the finalists are up and about, eagerly making their designs come to life.

Last February 2, the eight finalists headed to Carolina’s in Megamall to shop and look around for the best garments and accessories that they can use for their designs.

The finalists also had their first ever photoshoot last February 16 held at the Mega Publishing Group Studio. Past YDC winners and now notable fashion icons Aries Lagat, Ivarluski Aseron and Alex Pigao were also present to give advice to the finalists.

The black-and-white themed photoshoot was the buzz during that day, and each finalist had the chance to express his or her own individuality. This was one of the few instances that the finalists were given a chance to build camaraderie amidst the tough competition and just have pure fun.

All guards were down as the finalists, with great enjoyment, posed and showed off their personal styles. They also received inspiring (and useful) tips from Aries, who recently won the first local edition of Project Runway, and Alex.

Of course, the day did not end without getting to know the finalists and finding out how their YDC experience has been like so far.

Vanessa Ang, who attended the Parson’s School of Design in New York, said, “The YDC is a great opportunity to share ideas and, of course, meet new people. I’ve also learned design practices that are integral to making a truly great collection.”

Another finalist, Kathleen Conde, said she has “become more meticulous with her designs and executions. Being in the YDC has brought out the perfectionist in me.”

“The themes presented in this competition are of international level,” yet another finalist, Earl Gariando, shared. “There’s a call to create something unconventional yet wearable. Therein lies one of the challenges.”

Here some exclusive behind-the-scenes during the photoshoot.