Filipino designer steals the spotlight with a stunning Dubai Fashion Week FW25/26 finale

Dubai-based Filipino fashion designer Angelo Estera made a grand statement at Dubai Fashion Week FW25/26, closing the first day with a breathtaking runway showcase. The event marked a significant milestone in his career, reinforcing his influence in the world of high fashion.

Ahead of his much-anticipated presentation, Estera, in partnership with in5 Design and Sizters App, hosted an exclusive pre-show soirée at in5 Design, Dubai Design District (d3). The intimate gathering provided invited guests with VIP privileges, including a private preview of his latest designs, an elegant dinner, and front-row access to his showcase at the fashion week.

The star-studded evening saw the presence of esteemed personalities such as renowned fashion designer Michael Cinco, Consul General Marford Angeles, Vice Consul Paola Ebora, and Filipina internet personality Rosenda Casaje, along with members of the regional press and fashion influencers. Guests were treated to an exclusive look at Estera’s new collection, setting the stage for his grand runway show.

Reflecting on the moment, Estera shared, “I am thrilled to present my latest collection at Dubai Fashion Week, where culture and fashion intersect in the most spectacular way. This collection is a celebration of my travels and inspirations, a fusion of diverse influences that come together harmoniously on the runway.”

Adding to the evening’s highlights, Rosenda Casaje made her catwalk debut, wearing a piece from Angelo Estera’s Couture Fall/Winter 25/26 collection.

The event also underscored a strategic collaboration between in5 Design, a startup incubator under TECOM Group PJSC, and Sizters App, a platform focused on sustainable luxury fashion rentals. As an in5-supported venture, Sizters App is redefining the accessibility of high fashion, making its partnership with Estera a seamless fusion of couture, sustainability, and innovation.

This pre-show gathering built anticipation for Dubai Fashion Week FW25/26’s first-day finale, where Estera once again showcased his ability to captivate audiences with his signature opulence and modern elegance.