PHNOM PENH: Filipino designer, Reynier Abello, is about to launch his latest fashion collection commemorating the eighth anniversary of his fashion label, ARMADA. Abello held the ‘ARMADA RETROSPECTION: Arts & Fashion Exhibition’ press launch announcing his new collection on 16 September at Tribe Phnom Penh, in partnership with Spectrum KH, Tribe, Ab Studio and presented by 1664 Blanc.

Abello describes his new collection as "atypical" in both its format and design, and quite dark in its inspiration, however, still very wearable. A big fan of ‘Game of Thrones,’ Abello announced that he has titled his next collection ‘A Feast for Crows,’ after the fourth novel in the ‘A Song of Ice and Fire’ book series, which was adapted for the TV show. He said he thought this was a fitting title for his anniversary collection, not just because of the darker inspiration, but also in reflection of the rollercoaster of emotions he feels when putting out a new collection.

“Being a fashion designer, especially in this country, it's really difficult, it takes a lot from you,” said Abello. “It's various emotions and challenges, so every time you put a collection out there, it feels like you die each time. It's not difficult, it's really just very emotional, it's an emotional rollercoaster.”

Eight years into the business, Abello says he maintains the ethos of his brand, ARMADA, by keeping close to the people he has worked with since the very beginning. He said that all his campaign videos showcasing his collections have been edited by the same editor, maintaining a certain mood that captures ARMADA’s unique charm and artistry.

In working with Tribe, he said it was a partnership borne out of understanding. He commended the Tribe team for understanding ARMADA’s vision and brand and said he loved working with people who are professional, appreciate his vision and work towards making it a reality.

“You don't want to work with people who contradict your vision, you want to work with people who appreciate your vision and help you to make this vision a reality,” he said. “That's why we collaborated with Tribe, and we're very grateful.”

The press launch event was also presented by 1664 Blanc, a brand which Abello feels is a perfect match for ARMADA. He said he knew this from the very first time he met with the Blanc team, as they made it clear that they were interested in elevating and helping the fashion industry in Cambodia.

Numerous models, influencers, artists, designers and VIP guests were specially invited to the launch event. Fellow Filipino fashion designer, Don Protasio, was happy to be at the launch to support his industry peer and good friend. He shared that he often collaborates with Abello and directs shows for ARMADA, and has also had the privilege of seeing a preview of the new collection, which he described as being “typically ARMADA, very dramatic but at the same time, wearable.”

“It’s something that is geared towards the looks and the pieces that his customers really come to him for and what he's known for,” said Protasio. “There will be prints, there will be 'bling bling,' there will be tailoring and drama pieces, stuff like that. The good thing about ARMADA is that he constantly pushes himself to do something. He's always bored and thinking about the next one. We will only see the full effect of it when we see the show itself.”

Many guests also attended the press launch donning pieces from previous ARMADA collections. Fashion stylist and influencer, Shasne Suleimanova, came wearing a black and white polka-dotted dress from ARMADA’s last collection, styled with pearls and other bright accents to fit the event’s ‘retro-chic’ dress code. She said that she has also had the privilege of styling one of ARMADA’s collections in the past.

“I had the amazing experience of styling one of [Abello’s] collections…. for ‘Spectrum Trois,’ just a few months ago,” said Suleimanova. “It was an honor to style one of his collections. It was all about America, with some Marilyn Monroe vibes, all very bright, and I love to work with colors.”

Lifestyle influencer, RainnieDara, also came to the press launch in a stylish grey suit embellished with sparkling flowers designed by ARMADA. He said he is a big fan of Abello’s work and always loves to show off ARMADA’s outfits on his social media channels. In regard to the upcoming line, he said he expects to see some colorful and “fabulous” designs.

“I think that he's going to have some very fabulous outfits,” said RainnieDara. “His clothes line is unisex, and he especially [uses] patterns. He’s not really basic in his style, he doesn’t only go for black and white. So the fashion industry for him is more colorful and fabulous. This next one, I think it’s going to be a very wonderful collection.”

Fashion photographer, Chem Vuth Sovin, who has been working in the industry for 15 years, said he was very excited for the new collection as he is a big supporter of local brands in the Cambodian fashion industry. Even though Abello is Filipino, he established ARMADA totally in Cambodia and has been solely based in the Kingdom. Sovin added that what he loves most about ARMADA is the willingness to be bold and creative.

“Well, ARMADA always surprises me, like in every fashion show, he's very vibrant,” said Sovin. “His style is very vibrant, and I would say he gives lots of variety and diversity. What I love about ARMADA is that he's never scared of his own vision and creativity. I really do love his collections.”

Abello says his new collection, celebrating ARMADA’s 8th anniversary, will be a culmination of all the “essences” and “details” that are foundational to his creative thrust. He describes it as “going to war” and a “culling of the champions and warriors of each collection,” perhaps signifying a daring new take on some of his previous star pieces. He confidently asserts that this collection “will pave way for the next here and the future now.”

ARMADA’s new collection, ‘A Feast for Crows,’ will be launched in October.