THE US-based global chain of clothing retailers Forever 21 has finally made its way to Manila to delight fashionistas around these parts. Spanning over 2,000 square meters on the second level of SM Megamall Building A, the renowned purveyor of fab fashion finds and in-the-moment hotness opened its doors in late June with a private party that drew the usual suspects in fashion, society and entertainment to partake of yummy hors d’ceuvres and a steady flow of reds and whites.

Of course, the opening-cum-party also drew the powerhouses of retail giant SM, which made Forever 21 happen for Manila’s fashionable set. No less than SM chairman and founder Henry Sy Sr., with wife Felicidad Sy, turned up for the event, while Forever 21 president Alex Ok and Forever 21 founder and CEO Don Chang also flew in for the occasion.

Not surprisingly, the invited guests couldn’t resist the treasure trove of fashion-forward tops, bottoms, separates and singular sensations for women of disparate generations and aesthetic sensibilities, with not a few goodies for men also thrown in for good measure. Thus, as soon as they were done with convivial chatter over delicious cocktail fare, most everybody focused on some serious shopping.