Traditional Filipino fashion is bold. From the Filipiniana, an outfit for women marked by puffy “terno” butterfly sleeves and voluminous skirts; and the zoot suit, an ensemble that consists of baggy, high-waisted pants and a long coat with wide lapels to symbolize defiance; to customary gold-and-pearl statement jewelry featuring elaborate and intricate designs, Filipino style is one of maximalism and opulence. Despite its statement-making nature, Filipino fashion and the creatives behind it have often gone overlooked.

Today’s Filipino designers are working to capture the world’s attention and imagination with the daringness of the clothes from their heritage but with a modern edge. Innovators like Rajo Laurel are challenging maximalism by testing the strength of simplicity with beautiful drapery inspired by bodies of water. Meanwhile, pioneers like Ken Samudio are keeping the art of Filipino craftsmanship alive by creating each eccentric, coral-inspired bag by hand—slowly, intimately, and meticulously. Co-founders like Gelaine Santiago are finding ways for jewelry to carry the weight of Filipino history while still feeling fresh. Many of them are sourcing (inspiration and materials) from the world around them, infusing their work with ethnic pride, and taking every moment to highlight their nurturing community.

As designer Vilrick Cruz says of Filipinos, “We are a community of artists, innovators, and dreamers,” and they’re working to make art so that people can feel like art.

They speak to the warmth and kindness of their community, something that strikes them every time they hear the Filipino laugh, a robust sound of complete joy, or each time they recognize “kapwa,” a Tagalog word that refers to caring for others and unity. They give credence to the customs, foods, memories, environments, relationships, and traditions that makeup who they are and, in turn, make up their work.

InStyle spoke to seven designers of Filipino descent who represent the future of fashion. Below, they fondly remember the childhood moment that sparked their love for fashion, spotlight the things that instantly remind them of home, and reflect on the elements of their heritage that they’ve ingrained into their brands.

Ken Samudio, Founder of Ken Samudio Collections

Ken Samudio Collections is a Manila-based accessories and clothing brand that’s known for its colorful and elaborate ocean-inspired designs.

How would you describe your design ethos?

I am drawn to pieces that take time to create. I am fascinated by slow fashion. I anticipate beauty unfolding before me using my hands and eyes to create unusual yet beautiful things. I also take inspiration from the Philippines’ vast natural beauty. 

What’s your earliest fashion memory?

My earliest fashion memory was witnessing my mother prepare to go to work in the late ‘80s. I was fascinated by how she’d put on her makeup so effortlessly, how she’d mix and match her clothes. I loved how the shoulder pads made her look so powerful; I was amazed at how makeup boosted her confidence. I saw her change from a simple housewife to a career-driven working woman thanks to fashion. 

Is there a particular element in Filipino culture that inspires your work?

I am continuously inspired by the innate creativity and craftsmanship of the Filipino. Hand-embroidery is an age-old tradition in our culture that exemplifies the craftsmanship of the Filipino hand. Creating spectacular pieces from mundane materials such as piña fiber, abaca, stones, and shells. Filipinos, as we all know, are some of the most resourceful and resilient people. We can create so much beauty from so little. 

What are the major hallmarks of your designs?

My designs are created slowly. I enjoy the process as much as I enjoy the outcome. It must be created by hand. It must have a riot of colors and textures, at times even tactile—elements that reflect the culture of what being a Filipino is. We are happy; we are extravagant and fun-loving. 

A lot of traditional Filipino fashion is bold—whether it be dramatic terno sleeves, the defiant zoot suit, or elaborate gold-and-pearl jewelry. When do you feel the most bold?

I always take inspiration from nature, especially the underwater. When I am inspired by nature—its shapes, colors, symmetry, and texture—that is when I feel most bold: When I try to mimic the beauty of nature and translate it into functional works of art. 

How do you want the modern (Filipino) woman or man to feel when they wear your designs?

I want them to feel proud and empowered to be Filipino. I want them to be proud of our heritage, our culture, and our influence around the world, however underrepresented we are at the moment. 

What is one traditional Filipino garment or fashion element that you think everyone should incorporate into their wardrobes?

I do not have one particular traditional Filipino garment in mind, but I would love the world to discover hand-woven fabrics made from sustainable and natural materials like pina, abaca, tinalak, or yakan. These fabrics and textiles not only help create opportunities for local Filipino communities, but they are also sustainable and beautiful. 

Define your hometown’s style in three words.

Relaxed, calming, and cultured. 

Who is your fashion icon?

Audrey Hepburn. For me, she represents an era of elegance and glamor. 

What is one thing that instantly reminds you of home?

Bodies of water and rice.

What was your favorite Filipino dish growing up?

Tortang Talong (eggplant omelet) with banana ketchup. And heaps of rice (again)!

What gives you the most Pinoy pride?

I want the world to know that Filipinos are some of the warmest, kindest people in the universe.  Despite being some of the most underserved citizens in the world, denied basic human rights like education, health system and good governance, we still find reasons to smile and be optimistic. It gives me immense Pinoy pride when people find out that the Philippines is blessed with some of the most amazing natural wonders, the people are warm and friendly, and the country is not as dangerous as the Western media wants the world to believe. 

Rajo Laurel, Founder of House of Laurel

House of Laurel is a Manila-based clothing brand known for its elegant designs that fuse the imagination of couture with the convenience of ready-to-wear.

How would you describe your design ethos?

My design philosophy has always been about creating clothes that have a contemporary direction to them with deep roots to my culture. I always aim to create in a language where my goal is to be relevant to what my clients desire.

What’s your earliest fashion memory?

My first fashion memory was when I was 5 or 6. I was a child actor in a local production of The King & I. In one scene, I was directed to go under Ms. Anna’s skirt, and I recall being under this gigantic hoop skirt and being mesmerized by the shape, the construction, and the scale. From there, I was hooked by the power of fashion. Can you imagine, just by wearing these amazing clothes, one immediately transformed into The King of Siam? That, for me, was truly one of my first fashion epiphanies.

Is there a particular element in Filipino culture that inspires your work?

I am constantly inspired by everything in my culture. I cannot just pinpoint one aspect, as I feel it should be treated as a whole. From the way we cook and season our food to the way we present ourselves is so inspiring. I love how we, as a people, are so welcoming, kind, and gentle. That resonates with everyone that meets a Filipino. I also love how we immediately make western things our own: It may, at face value, say “American,” but the way we transform things makes it our own. A good example of this is the Jeepney. What was once a sad remnant of war has been transformed into one of the most enduring symbols of who we are as a people—complete with bells and whistles. 

What are the major hallmarks of your designs?

I love the art of draping, and I use this skill to create these amorphous forms and shapes. I love the fluidity of lines and most of my work has a sense of movement to them, like the amazing beaches and bodies of waters we have in our islands. I also love using our Filipino weaves, however, I try to push the envelope a bit by weaving in some new elements, like adding Lycra to Filipino pineapple or some synthetic nylon to Abaca. This tension of natural and synthetic always proves to be exciting, experimental, and fresh.

A lot of traditional Filipino fashion is bold. When do you feel the most bold?

I feel most bold when I tread that fine line between tradition and the contemporary. I also love it when there is a strong sense of restraint to the line—when you have the confidence to remove.  We Filipinos are maximalists to our core—we always love to add. However, in my mind, there is nothing as powerful as reduction and the strength of simplicity.

How do you want the modern (Filipino) woman or man to feel when they wear your designs?

Soulful, sensitive, sentimental, secure, and brave.  

What is one traditional Filipino garment or fashion element that you think everyone should incorporate into their wardrobes?

I love a good malong. It’s a traditional, tubular garment worn in Mindanao. I love that it is so versatile, functional, and unique. The patterns change depending on which tribe weaves it, and it can be worn in so many ways. I also love a good tapis, which is like an over-skirt but can also be worn over the shoulders like a panuelo (handkerchief).

Define your hometown’s style in three words.

Soothing, peaceful, and warm.

Who is your fashion icon?

I always loved the style of Baby Fores and Imelda Cojuangco. They were Filipino women who were really way ahead of their time. They personified these enduring images in my mind. However, my true fashion icon is my grandmother, Beatriz Laurel. I recall sitting beside her as she would prepare herself in her dressing room. The whole process was like a ritual akin to a dream. I can still smell her favorite perfume JOY by Jean Patou. She was an ambassador’s wife and would have many social events. It was such a profound memory for me to see her preparing for those evenings.  

What is one thing that instantly reminds you of home?

The Filipino laugh. You can recognize it from anywhere in the world—that loud, full-bodied sound of absolute happiness and glee. That immediately makes me feel at home. That, and the smell of freshly cooked steamed rice.  

What was your favorite Filipino dish growing up?

My Lola Betty, on most Sundays, would make a Pesang Manok dish for us. It was essentially a whole boiled chicken with the most delicious broth punctuated by spanish sausages and an assortment of vegetables, like carrots, cabbages, beans, and what have you. It was actually a simple dish, but it was the most heart-warming for me.

What gives you the most Pinoy pride?

That we are incredible people. We have so much amazing talent that is inherent to our core—we can out-sing and out-dance anyone on any given day (lol!). However, what gives me the most pride is how…we are always so caring and willing to give anyone a helping hand. This has been ingrained in all of us as we grew up in a community that thinks of everyone as one. It is called “kapwa,” and it is one of the things that makes us Filipinos truly human. We do not immediately think of ourselves; we put our family and loved ones first. This profoundly gives me Filipino pride.

Vilrick Cruz, Founder of House of Vilrique

House of Vilrique is a Qatar-based clothing brand known for its structural designs inspired by historical paintings and sculptures.

How would you describe your design ethos?

My design ethos revolves around “dauntless beauty.” I believe in creating fashion that is unapologetically bold and fearless, yet still beautiful and sophisticated. I am deeply inspired by the power of sculptural forms, the play of structure and fluidity, and how garments can transform the wearer into a statement of strength and grace. For me, fashion is about pushing boundaries and embracing individuality, allowing people to express their truest, boldest selves.

What’s your earliest fashion memory?

I was always expressive in both art and fashion, even as a child. My mom, being a makeup artist, really enabled me to be curious and research fashion icons and glamazons from a young age. It was her influence that opened my eyes to the world of fashion, where I began to admire strong, bold figures who weren’t afraid to be themselves. Watching her work and learning about beauty and style helped shape my understanding of self-expression through clothing and makeup.

Is there a particular element in Filipino culture that inspires your work?

Filipino culture is rich in craftsmanship and resourcefulness, which has greatly influenced my work. I admire the intricate details found in traditional Filipino garments, like the terno or barong. While I haven’t used barong or traditional garments directly, I am exploring ways to incorporate Filipino elements, whether it’s through architecture, nature, or cultural symbolism, into my future designs. Even while on hiatus, I am constantly thinking about how to honor my roots in a modern, sculptural way.

What are the major hallmarks of your designs?

Sculptural shapes, daring silhouettes, and a sense of boldness are at the core of my designs. I focus on creating pieces that feel like wearable art—something that moves with the body but also stands out on its own. My goal is to strike a balance between structure and elegance, making sure that each piece not only speaks to a fearless sense of style but also evokes beauty in a non-traditional way.

When do you feel the most bold?

I feel the most bold when I’m pushing the limits of what fashion can be, whether it’s experimenting with unconventional materials or creating designs that challenge the norms of traditional silhouettes. When I break the rules and take creative risks, I feel like I’m truly embodying the dauntless spirit of my work.

How do you want the modern (Filipino) woman or man to feel when they wear your designs?

I want them to feel empowered, unapologetic, and confident. My designs are meant to make the wearer feel like they are stepping into their full potential, embodying strength and individuality. Whether they are Filipino or not, I hope my pieces inspire a sense of fearlessness, rooted in their identity and personal style.

What is one traditional Filipino garment or fashion element that you think everyone should incorporate into their wardrobes?

While I don’t typically wear or design barongs, I believe that modern interpretations of Filipino craftsmanship can be a beautiful addition to anyone’s wardrobe. Elements like embroidery, weaving techniques, or even textures from Filipino architecture could be incorporated into fashion. I think it’s less about a specific garment and more about taking inspiration from the artistry and tradition behind Filipino design.

Define your hometown’s style in three words.

Juxtaposed, dynamic, bustling.

Who is your fashion icon?

Thierry Mugler, for obvious reasons. His bold, structured designs and commitment to creating unforgettable, powerful pieces have always inspired me. Another icon is Grace Jones because she embodies androgynous beauty, which resonates with me and my personal style. Her ability to blur the lines between femininity and masculinity is something I truly admire.

What is one thing that instantly reminds you of home?

The beaches resonate with me, but the vibrant chaos of Metro Manila—the traffic, bustling streets, colorful jeepneys, and the noise—captures the spirit of the city, despite flaws and all. It’s the energy of that urban landscape, with its constant movement and life, that truly reflects what home means to me.

What was your favorite Filipino dish growing up?

I never really had just one favorite because I love to eat! But I’d say Sinigang and Kare-kare. Sinigang is comforting, while kare-kare is rich and decadent, making every meal feel like a celebration.

What gives you the most Pinoy pride?

I want the world to recognize the resilience and creativity of Filipinos. We are a community of artists, innovators, and dreamers who bring so much depth and talent to the table. Despite being underrepresented, Filipinos have a way of blending tradition with modernity, and we excel at pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, especially in fashion and design. What gives me the most Pinoy pride is knowing that we continue to thrive and make our mark globally, even when the odds are against us.

Gelaine Santiago, Co-founder of Cambio & Co. Filipino Jewelry

Cambio & Co. is a curator brand based in Toronto that works with Filipino designers and artisans to showcase craftsmanship from the motherland.

How would you describe your design ethos?

Our design ethos fuses traditional Filipino craftsmanship with a contemporary Filipiniana flair. We want our pieces to evoke a sense of familiarity, carrying the weight of history, while still feeling fresh and brand new. This unique blend of nostalgia and modernity sparks curiosity and encourages people to want to learn more about Filipino culture—even those who may not have been interested before.

What’s your earliest fashion memory?

The movie Clueless. I was probably six or seven years old, and I remember watching Alicia Silverstone and Stacey Dash as Cher and Dionne, [respectively] and being so enamored with their style. The bright colors, elaborate hats, teeny-tiny dresses, high heels, and loud patterns—all of it felt so intriguing to me and different from anything else I had seen on TV. It was probably the first time that it clicked for me how fashion could be a form of self-expression and change how you feel about yourself.

Is there a particular element in Filipino culture that inspires your work?

We’re very inspired by materials. Materials don’t just tell the story about the piece itself, they say a lot about the land, the terroir, the history and culture of a place. So many of us grew up seeing things like capiz chandeliers or banig mats, but so few of us actually ask questions like, “What are they made of? How do they make it that way? What’s the journey that needs to happen for this piece of shell, for example, to transform into a pair of earrings?” I especially get excited when materials that are seen as mundane in our culture are suddenly transformed into something new and surprising (for example, how our partner R2R transforms basahan rags into high-end designer bags).

What are the major hallmarks of your designs?

Our best-selling designs take ordinary parts of our culture and reinterpret them into pieces you can wear everyday or for special occasions. Our Caida Bloom Drop earrings make you feel like you’re wearing sampaguita garlands on your ears. Our gold pearl earrings, like the Perla Cora Stack or Kalachuchi 3-in-1 hoops, combine iconic materials with Filipinos’ love for repurposing so they can be worn multiple ways!

A lot of traditional Filipino fashion is bold. When do you feel the most bold?

I feel the most bold when I wear something colorful like floral prints or bright coordinating color blocks. I also love wearing neutral earth tones and dressing them up with statement jewelry, like an elaborate pair of gold and pearl hoops or a chunky handcrafted bracelet. No matter what, comfort is number one to me, so I feel the most bold when I can make a standout fashion statement but still feel comfortable in my skin.

How do you want the modern (Filipino) woman or man to feel when they wear your designs?

I want people to feel proud, connected, and loved. Someone once told me that wearing our jewelry felt like wearing ancestral protection, and that stuck with me. I’d love for anyone wearing our pieces to feel like they are connecting to the deepest parts of themselves—like you are and always have been Filipino enough, and you should feel proud of that.

What is one traditional Filipino garment or fashion element that you think everyone should incorporate into their wardrobes?

I’m a sucker for the terno because they’re so gorgeous. But for accessories, I’d say pamaypays (Filipino hand fans) because they’re elegant and eye-catching, and a pair of gold filigree creollas (traditional hoops popular during the colonial period) because everyone can use a pair of classic hoops!

Define your hometown’s style in three words.

My Dad’s family is from Malolos, Bulacan, the first capital of the new Philippines Republic for a brief period of time and a significant site for the resistance against the Spanish. I’d say their style is traditional, feminine, and proud. 

Who is your fashion icon?

Amal Clooney. I love how elegant and confident she always looks. She can show up to a courtroom or red carpet and still look like her glamorous self, and she doesn’t shy away from color, statement pieces, or unique silhouettes. 

What is one thing that instantly reminds you of home?

When there are fleeting moments when it’s dusty and humid and there’s a faint smell of gasoline in the air. It immediately transports me to the Philippines—sitting in a tricycle and watching the world roll past me. 

What was your favorite Filipino dish growing up?

Filipino spaghetti was my favorite! For the longest time, I thought all spaghetti had hot dogs, and I remember being disappointed the first time I had Italian spaghetti. I genuinely thought they forgot the hot dogs.

What gives you the most Pinoy pride?

I want the world to know that we are and have always been here. We have a reputation for being warm and friendly, which I love about our culture, but we are also revolutionaries, activists, artists, entrepreneurs, scientists, and leaders. It makes me proud when I see our community speaking up against injustice, whether that’s against Filipinos or other marginalized communities. Whenever I see footage of protests of Filipinos—whether in the Bay Area, Toronto, Manila, or Davao City—I feel so much pride and love for my people.

Sofia Carmela, Founder of Sofia Carmela Atelier

Sofia Carmela Atelier is a Manila-based bridal and evening wear label known for its romantic, maximalist designs.

How would you describe your design ethos?

Sofia Carmela Atelier focuses on the ethos of timeless style. The custom pieces I create reflect the elegance and empowerment I would like for my clients to feel. As an evening gown and bridal designer, it is always an interesting challenge to overcome the middle ground between the client’s personal style, my design preference, and the idea of a timeless design. This is where the importance of balance regarding silhouette, fabrics, and detailing comes in. Although my personal design aesthetic shows quirkiness yet soft femininity in shapes, beadworks, and color, they are meant to become lasting markers of a contemplative way of living that go beyond trends.

What’s your earliest fashion memory?

My earliest fashion memory was when I was just four years old trying to walk in my mom’s stilettos like the models I saw in fashion magazines. From then on, I have always been interested in all things glamorous. I also developed my drawing skills then, as I would tirelessly think of outfits that could be perfect for my barbie dolls.

Is there a particular element in Filipino culture that inspires your work?

A particular element in Filipino culture that continuously inspires my work is our perseverance. With my parents being the biggest influence in my life, I have witnessed them put a whole new meaning into what real perseverance is. My parents grew up in a province and were not well-off from the beginning. They had to work hard and persevere in order to build the life they had only dreamt of from scratch. Through this, they were able to support my brother and my dreams and provide us with more than what we needed. They were even able to support my studies abroad, as I have decided to pursue my lifelong dream, which is to become a fashion designer. Now, looking back, I’m already living my dream and it is all because of them and their perseverance. When I’m faced with challenges in terms of my work execution, I always look back at my parent’s greatest trait, and I’m instantly reminded that I can make things happen.

What are the major hallmarks of your designs?

The major hallmarks of my designs are expressive feminine silhouettes, elaborate floral elements, and dainty beadworks. 

A lot of traditional Filipino fashion is bold. When do you feel the most bold?

I feel the most bold when I wear dramatic puffy sleeves with a big 3D flower sculptural detail somewhere on my dress. The colors magenta, pink, or lemon-yellow should be in the outfit, too!

How do you want the modern (Filipino) woman or man to feel when they wear your designs?

Someone who wears Sofia Carmela feels beautiful, confident, and empowered. With the strong influence of soft femininity while still trying to encapsulate the grand details, I want them to stand out in every room they enter. 

What is one traditional Filipino garment or fashion element that you think everyone should incorporate into their wardrobes?

Every (Filipino) woman should have a classic camisa. It is so easy to style and very versatile. Personally, I think it elevates any outfit, whether you wear a pair of jeans or a long dress.

Define your hometown’s style in three words.

Classy, Sophisticated, and Chic.

Who is your fashion icon?

Heart Evangelista will forever be my fashion icon. She is a proud Filipina who is not afraid to express who she is, especially in the clothes she wears. Some may say she is extravagant, but I see her as an expressive individual who is not afraid to use clothing as a medium to show her truest self. She is not afraid to experiment with different styles since she believes fashion should be fun!

What is one thing that instantly reminds you of home?

Whenever I see any dog, it instantly reminds me of home. I own two dogs: one is a shih tzu and one is a golden retriever. They complete my home instantly.

What was your favorite Filipino dish growing up?

I love my mom’s kare-kare, especially when it is partnered with bagoong.

What gives you the most Pinoy pride?

If there is one thing I would love the world to know and recognize in our community, it is that we have “bayanihan.” It is a trait where we selflessly help other people to achieve a goal without expecting anything in return. This is what really gives me the most Pinoy pride. Filipinos are selfless and the most hospitable; we always go out of our way to help other people in need.

Keith Lafuente, Founder of Keith Lafuente

Keith Lafuente is an NYC-based streetwear brand known for its eccentric patterns and avant garde silhouettes, inspired by art, drag, and anime.

How would you describe your design ethos?

Experimental, syncretic, and sexy—all with a sense of humor. I value uniqueness over luxury or trends.

What’s your earliest fashion memory?

Coming across a Givenchy ad in a magazine at the dentist office. I loved it so much, I politely asked the dentist if I could rip it out and take it home. Then, I spent hours and hours obsessively drawing the image as realistically as I possibly could. 

Is there a particular element in Filipino culture that inspires your work?

The creativity that comes from using materials at hand and transforming things that many consider trash into something beautiful or useful. When I visited the Mountain Province last year, I was really inspired by the floor mats made out of recycled rags and old shirts, as well as the way outdoor spaces were decorated with rows and rows of neon green Sprite bottles.

What are the major hallmarks of your designs?

Terno sleeves, bright colors and stripes, sheerness, anime influences, and storytelling.

A lot of traditional Filipino fashion is bold. When do you feel the most bold?

Honestly, in my imagination. I’m always staging fashion shows (and fights) in my head…

How do you want the modern (Filipino) woman or man to feel when they wear your designs?

One-of-a-kind!

What is one traditional Filipino garment or fashion element that you think everyone should incorporate into their wardrobes?

I don’t believe in absolutes, but I love the use of sheer fabrics in formal wear.

Define your hometown’s style in three words.

I grew up in suburban New Jersey in a time when style was either preppy, emo, or nerdy. 

Who is your fashion icon?

Alexander McQueen.

What is one thing that instantly reminds you of home?

Vienna sausages. 

What was your favorite Filipino dish growing up?

Pinangat (also known as Laing) is and has always been my favorite Filipino dish. There’s nothing better than the spicy one from Bicol with a heaping serving of freshly cooked white rice.

What gives you the most Pinoy pride?

I can’t speak to what the world should know, but I hope Americans learn more about Filipino history and the ways in which it is an integral part of American history. Whether it is the preponderance of Filipino nurses or the Filipino obsession with beauty pageants, a lot of it has roots in American colonialism. Of course, I feel proud when I see a Filipino being successful in their chosen field, but I feel the most Pinoy pride when I experience Filipino kindness and generosity. Simple things, like making sure you have baon (food to take home) from a family gathering. 

Jillian Joy, Founder of Jillian Joy Hand Crafted

Jillian Joy Hand Crafted is a Toronto-based bridal, evening wear, and accessories brand known for its contemporary designs of the traditional filipiniana.

How would you describe your design ethos?

Cultural fashion is a great way to display an individual’s cultural identity, and it should be worn for more everyday occasions, rather than being reserved as a “costume” for festivals and traditional events. Through my brand, I strive to bring the terno back into our everyday occasions. But, I aim to modernize them in a way that allows the design to remain relevant and contemporary, while also preserving its distinguishable features, namely the butterfly sleeve’s narrow, rigid structure with its perfect, semicircular shape created by pleating around the shoulder.

What’s your earliest fashion memory?

My earliest memory of actually caring about fashion was in middle school when I insisted on wearing jeans with my dresses.

Is there a particular element in Filipino culture that inspires your work?

I love drawing inspiration from early 1900 ternos in the Philippines. At this time, the terno consisted of separate pieces, including a top, skirt, and the panuelo (a shawl type garment draped over the shoulders and attached to the top). Despite being separate, each piece was made with matching motifs so that it created the effect of being a single garment or look. For example, floral or geometric patterns would be woven or painted onto the separate pieces so that they would all be matching. I find myself keeping this in mind when I design my modern ternos, trying to repeat elements throughout each part of the garment so that each part blends with the next seamlessly.

What are the major hallmarks of your designs?

Other than the obvious butterfly sleeves of the terno that I use, I would say all of my designs are unmistakably modern. In the early days of marketing my brand, during a time when not a lot of people had interest in the terno, I would market my pieces as, “Something your lola would not wear.” This was because most ternos at that time were the opposite of modern (think super conservative with high necklines, stiff silhouettes, and outdated patterns), which is why most people did not want to purchase, let alone wear them. 

A lot of traditional Filipino fashion is bold. When do you feel the most bold?

I definitely feel the most bold when I wear my ternos to unconventional occasions. While it’s becoming more normal to wear the terno to formal events like weddings, they’re still not often worn at everyday events. I can’t help but feel bold wearing my terno to things like birthdays, christmas parties, and even summer food festivals.

How do you want the modern (Filipino) woman or man to feel when they wear your designs?

When wearing my designs, I want the modern Filipino woman to feel truly Filipino, period. Being based in North America, my main customer demographic consists of women who are part of the Filipino diaspora, some being women who have never even been to the Philippines. I myself was born and raised in Canada, so I can relate to this demographic of women who very often seek meaningful ways to connect with their cultural identity. I want women to feel truly Filipino when they wear my designs—whether they’ve been to the Philippines or not, whether they can speak tagalog or not, whether they are full Filipino or part.

What is one traditional Filipino garment or fashion element that you think everyone should incorporate into their wardrobes?

I think everyone should incorporate a Filipino woven piece into their wardrobes, or even homes. Filipino weaving dates back centuries and is one of the traditional crafts that indigenous peoples have preserved. A woven Filipino piece could look like a modern bucket hat or sling bag or a more traditional tapis style skirt.

Define your hometown’s style in three words.

Basic street chic. (I, myself, am a proud basic Toronto girly.)

Who is your fashion icon?

I’ve been obsessed with Heart Evangelista and love that she always supports and wears local Filipino designers, even to international events.

What is one thing that instantly reminds you of home?

The sense of togetherness in large groups. I grew up with two siblings, so many cousins, and a huge group of friends from a Filipino church. Feeling like I’m comfortable and close to others, even in larger group settings, instantly reminds me of home and especially my childhood.

What was your favorite Filipino dish growing up?

Chicken Tinola. Although, now, I would say sinigang na baboy.

What gives you the most Pinoy pride?

The Philippines is so culturally diverse, and its people are a reflection of that. I’d want the world to recognize and learn about the diversity in the Philippines and in Filipino communities outside of the Philippines, which I believe would help people see Filipinos as more than their current stereotypes. What gives me the most Pinoy pride is the sense of community and support that Filipinos offer each other.