Full Breakdown
Manila's The New Nocturnals: A Celebration of Dark Glamour
10/30/2025, 9:58:19 PM
The Halloween Event Redefined
On October 29, 2025, The New Nocturnals transformed Makati into a vibrant spectacle of dark fantasy, showcasing Manila's most magnetic personalities in a celebration of Halloween that blended high fashion with macabre creativity. Organized by Raymond Gutierrez and Ash Rye, the event at Shooting Gallery Studios reimagined Halloween as a fusion of couture and chaos, inviting attendees to embrace their inner monsters.
Standout Looks and Transformations
Among the notable attendees, actress Andrea Brillantes captivated audiences with her striking portrayal of a black cat. Dressed in a Neric Beltran halter bodysuit, complete with feline ears, a sleek tail, and full black body paint, she embodied a sultry and mysterious feline allure. Her look was complemented by bold makeup, which included dramatic whiskers and a glossy finish, earning her the title of "Queen of Halloween" once again. Brillantes' commitment to her character was evident, as she had multiple makeup artists working simultaneously to achieve her transformation.
Kyline Alcantara made a memorable entrance as Gotham's Two-Face, showcasing a dual-sided makeup design that juxtaposed a polished look with a ghoulish, charred appearance. Michelle Dee, inspired by a dark Harlequin, presented an avant-garde jester costume that combined humor with haute couture, while Barbie Imperial shimmered as a siren in a scale-textured gown. Other notable appearances included Christi McGarry as a half-dead ghoul and Zeinab Harake-Parks as a sultry witch, each contributing to the event's theme of dark glamour.
Thematic Elements and Cultural Significance
The New Nocturnals not only highlighted individual creativity but also served as a platform for cultural expression. The event encouraged participants to explore themes of identity and transformation, with costumes that ranged from playful to haunting. Brillantes, reflecting on her passion for costume design, noted, “Halloween is my favorite time to let my creativity run wild,” emphasizing the joy of self-expression through fashion.
Criticism and Diverse Perspectives
While the event was largely celebrated for its creativity, some critics pointed out the potential for cultural appropriation in certain costume choices. The blending of various cultural symbols in a single event raised questions about representation and sensitivity. However, the overall atmosphere remained one of celebration and artistic freedom, with attendees reveling in the opportunity to explore their darker sides.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Halloween is my favorite time to let my creativity run wild,” — Andrea Brillantes
- “It was a showcase of dark glamour, creative liberation, and the unapologetic joy of embracing one’s inner monster.” — Event Overview
The New Nocturnals successfully merged fashion and fantasy, allowing Manila's elite to not just wear costumes but to live their alter egos, marking a significant moment in the celebration of Halloween in the Philippines.
