Languid, fluid and simple with a lot sexy -- this was running through my head seeing Martin Bautista’s first solo show after 17 years in the industry at the BYS Fashion Week held recently at One Ayala.

The designer’s signature was evident in a range of short, to long figure-flattering pieces, to flowing, ethereal numbers. You could see a celebration of the female form and the beauty of femininity.

There’s something about a woman’s body that has become part of Bautista’s DNA and design identity. His noteworthy sculptural drapes naturally make every woman feel like a goddess. You can feel in his clothes feminine hotness and power. This is something he has mastered through years of designing from a young hopeful and aspiring talent to now a seasoned and sought-after name in the industry.

Now, Bautista is exercising restraint. You can see the newness and evolution of his designs. His classics are made new through introducing current colors and textiles, giving that refreshed look and feel. Martin says, “This collection is a thesis on restraint and flow; of control and calmness. It’s different, but somehow still very much so close and true to my DNA as a designer.”