Empowered Women, Global Runway: World Fashion Expo Returns To Paris

PARIS, France — The World Fashion Expo returns to Paris for its sixth season during Paris Fashion Week, bringing together international designers, including several Filipino fashion creatives. Organized by Gigi Hobson and her collaborators in fashion event production, the showcase was held at the elegant Les Salons Hoche in Paris.

Coinciding with the celebration ofInternational Women’s Day, Hobson emphasized her commitment to empowering women through fashion.“I consider myself as a very strong, independent woman so every time I bring women here like myself I’m an advocate for women like that na talagang ipinaglalaban ang karapatan nila at ang talento nila.”

Among the featured designers wasFilipina model-turned-designer Marjorie Renner, who arrived in Paris fresh from back-to-back shows inNew York and London. Featured in Monaco Vogue and Elle fashion magazines, Renner unveiled a collection that embraced the dramatic elegance of the Paris runway. The lineup showcased predominantlyblack evening wear accented with bold red details, featuring sequined gowns, sculptural silhouettes, layered tulle, and textured fabrics. The pieces balanced classic glamour with modern sophistication, creating statement looks that highlighted strong femininity and couture-inspired craftsmanship.

“It's a very special collection I may say because it was made of handmade crochet, which I put it together and what makes it special, I get all these women, stay-at -home moms who don't have a job and who takes care of their kids and they don’t have time to really go out. So to give them a livelihood program, I initiated to get all these mothers learn how to make crochet and give them some jobs and then I collect them, and put them together to make a dress.”

Adding to the moment of support and camaraderie on the runway was veteran modelJedd Tan, who walked for her longtime friend.

“A big support sa king kaibigan na mula noon hanggang ngayon changing her career from model to producer and then now as a designer, it’s a very very good career path for her and I’m here always to support her as a friend and also as a fan,”says Tan.