MANILA, Philippines--If there was any designer who ?had me at hello? so to speak, it?s Dennis Lustico. He?s a master of the yin and yang of fashion?balancing elegance with authority, sexiness and sophistication. What?s more, it?s easy to discern the heart and soul in his creations that are both modern and feminine.

What I love most about his designs are the graphic elements combined with a soft, feminine silhouette. Most importantly, his beautiful clothes are very wearable. Pretty and practical, his outfits are worn by real women.

Dennis is set to unveil his latest collection, hailed as a ?fusion of fluidity and texture? in his very first solo show titled ?Lustico: A Fashion Presentation.? The show will be held on Oct. 17, 7 p.m. at the Rizal Ballroom of Makati Shangri-La Hotel. The show signifies Lustico?s graduation into the elite circle of the country?s most sought-after fashion designers. Some of the country?s top fashionistas and society?s namedroppables are expected to grace the occasion.

A little confession is in order?I was able to get a sneak peek of his latest exquisite collection at his atelier. Expect a play with texture: He uses a lot of mesh materials, organdy fabrics that are double fused and twirled, and beadwork. And of course, he incorporates his trademark of graphic piping with an impeccable finish. The essence of Dennis? style is in his geometric details in soft canvass. Also, what?s new to look forward to: Separate pieces such as skirts, trousers, jackets and beaded tops that are easy and fun to mix and match.

For his latest collection, Dennis shares that he was inspired by his fascination with period films. ?The Legionnaire? collection will then showcase an interesting fusion of contrasting elements that display his impeccable style and affinity for dramatic depiction. That drama is reflected in Dennis? sophisticated palette of ivory and black, with accents of lime, electric blue, salmon, silver, gunmetal gray, champagne and polished gold.

?I like the ritual of dressing up, the glamor of women during the olden times,? he says. He cites the sense of elegance and perfection of the French legionnaire, that even in war, the French put thought and effort in dressing up before the battle. ?With this collection, I want to send the message across that women can still look feminine and sexy even in men-inspired clothing,? explained Lustico.

Call it fights of fancy?I believe it is a compelling and relevant perspective considering our current crusading atmosphere. As proof of the ?heart? behind the battle, the event will benefit the Philippine National Red Cross Rizal Chapter, the Assumption High School Class 1981 Foundation and the Tanging Yaman Foundation. The fashion show is a joint project of some of Lustico?s loyal illustrious clientele, such as TV personality and PDI society columnist Tessa Prieto-Valdes and Taguig City?s First Lady Kaye Tinga.

?The Legionnaire is the ultimate representation of my evolution as a designer,? he shares.

I daresay that more than just an evolution, it will be a fashion revolution for his loyal fans as well.

E-mail the author at jfashion@inquirer.com.ph. Visit www.jenniepperson.com and follow me on twitter.com/jenniepperson.