Filipinxt was a fashion platform created by lawyer and entrepreneur Rob Mallari-D’Auria and fashion designer Bessie Besana, who participated in the showcase, to share the pride, passion, and spirit of the Filipino culture and who it relates to fashion on a global scale. It brings a space for these designers to showcase these talented designers and is a fusion of heritage, sustainability, and innovation. The designers at the FILIPINXT showcased not only their individual styles but honored their Filipino roots. It was a celebration of the Filipino creativity, craftsmanship and culture and a statement made to not only those who attended NYFW, but the world that Filipino fashion is to be reckoned with. The lineup for the event featured designers Bessie Besana, Edited Limited + Adante Leyesa, Bagoyan, and Tagpi, each bringing their own fashion and flare to the runway.
Bessie Basana
Bessie Basana’s collection “Rays Of Twilight” opened the show with a band with a stunning bridal motif. Lace, silk, tulle, feathers, bead – all the bases were covered in these breathtaking white ensembles. A true blend of timeless elegance and contemporary style with clean lines and innovative cuts. They were created for the woman who celebrates love in all its forms.
Tagpi
Gabby Garcia of Tagpi brought an innovative twist to the NYFW runway with “Tahak,” which beautifully bridged the vibrant, tropical landscape of the Philippines with the cosmopolitan energy of New York City while showcasing his commitment to Filipino culture and sustainability through high-quality, handwoven fabrics and intricate designs. ‘Tahak’ represents a journey—where the lushness of the Philippines meets the sophistication of city life,” Garcia explained. Using handwoven fabrics such as tweed, wool and crochet reflected in a color palette inspired by the natural beauty of the islands.The mix of structured and fluid silhouettes offered versatility for the modern, on-the-go individual. The garments are unlike other things you will typically see on the runway and on the streets and each piece had had a bit of funkiness incorporating really unique elements such as the rendition of beads, the crochet necktie and sash, and use of pom-poms. She further states, “I wanted to create a collection that not only celebrates our culture but also speaks to the modern, global traveler. It’s about embracing their roots while embracing the future.”
Adante Leyesa
Edition Limited and Adante Leyesa presented their “Tough Love” collection which was one full of contrast featuring bold streetwear with feminine accessories. The designer states “I want my pieces to be recognized not just as fashion, but as an emotional experience.” The result a versatile, unfiltered collection of striking separates perfect for those who appreciate both high fashion and practicality. A little bulky and oversized, with a utility feel, this collection was very urban chic, a uniform for the city girl or guy.
Bagoyan
“Bagoyan Rising”, by designer Jasmine Baacs, is a tribute to the strength and resilience of Kalinga heritage, a province of the Philippines. This collection honors her indigenous roots while embracing the future with modern wearable designs, blending the traditional with the contemporary. The collection features intricate handwoven Kaligna fabrics, pure linen, and Italian cotton in an earthy color palette. The collection resonated deeply with the audience and made a powerful and proud statement. As a spectator who is not Filipino, the sentiment was not lost and I also truly felt connected to the authenticity of the garments. While in the realm of customary Filipino garments, these renditions are modernized and could easily be styled from the office space to the streets.
It was a pleasure to be a part of something a little beyond just fashion, but a part of a celebration of culture and artistic expression.
