Fans were transported to the BINIverse last weekend, June 28 to 30, as P-pop phenomenon BINI held their first-ever solo concert. The three-day showcase saw the girl group perform their biggest hits in front of hundreds of adoring fans. Styled by Ica Villanueva, the group donned show-stopping outfits that proved their status as this generation's musical it girls.
For one of their numbers, they each stepped out in conceptual ensembles that were peppered with feathers, fronds, and glittering appliques. Their avant-garde looks were designed by Filipino designer Ehrran Montoya.
In an exclusive interview with Preview, Ehrran breaks down the concepts behind the looks and what went into bringing them to life in the BINIverse.
Ehrran Montoya on the "BINIverse" Concert Looks
Hi, Ehrran! What was the brief you got when you were approached to design looks for BINI’s concert? What was your initial reaction?
"When Ica Villanueva approached me to make looks for the concert, I was hesitant at first since I had an upcoming fashion show on the 30th and the concert was on the 28th. But who can say no to BINI!?
"Thank God my instinct pushed me to pursue this as I am very passionate about creating looks for women, especially since the girls of BINI are the muses of this generation. I was so happy that I began sketching the looks right ahead."
Was your approach in designing different since it was for an on-stage performance? What factors did you have to consider?
"I instantly called my sister, Hazel, a huge BINI stan, and I asked her about their individual characters. We did research on certain silhouettes that worked for each member. Asking a Gen Z sister for insights helped a lot in designing the looks as they're the ones who can really relate to today's trends."
"The approach I had to these looks was similar to how I usually create. I think it's the reason why they reached out to me, which made it easier to make the looks more couture-like and not the usual street style. It's a marriage between couture and Y2K styles."
How would you describe the looks you made? If they had a name to them, what would you call them?
"The looks I made for them are an extension of my past collections, LEPIDOPTERA, Secrets of Metamorphosis, and SPORA. I think I would call this slate of looks WINX as they simultaneously embody my aesthetic and the BINI brand."
"The pieces are sparkly and have elements of couture. They're adorned with feathers, beadwork, textures, and fabric manipulations. They're not the usual concert looks."
How do these looks reflect your ethos as a designer? What gave them the Ehrran Montoya stamp?
"With all the sparkly details, textures, and fabric manipulations, I would say the looks really embodied the MONTOYA brand. The gold and silver color palette was a no-brainer choice for me as I am a sucker for metallics. I did add a twist to it by incorporating elements such as dainty flowers and embellished bangles. I think it was the right formula to make a standout concert look."
Any fun facts or trivia about these looks?
"I did not think too much about how designing these looks would cost me, I just jumped into it and hoped for the best! It took us three days to construct all of the bodices and only one night to attach all of the details on all eight looks. My team poured 100% of their efforts to deliver and I would say that the looks really showed our hard work and dedication."
* This interview has been condensed and edited for clarity.
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