This season, the Asian Fashion Meets Tokyo showcase spotlit four labels from the Philippines, whose nascent design scene will stage its own Fashion Week in Manila later this month. Christian Edward Dalogaog of Ched Studio, Otto Sacramento of Ottomondi, and Bench’s Ben Chan delivered summery gingham checked separates, embroidered palm fronds, straw bucket hats, colorful tasseled bags, and other breezy nods to their shared island home.
Strongest of the lot was Renz Reyes, whose work evoked the same sentimentality in more subtle ways. A flock of appliquéd cranes took flight from a calf-length skirt, and he embellished khaki workman’s chinos with thick blanket stitches and delicate crocheted straps to effectively cross utility with craft. Some of his deconstructions recalled the work of Rei Kawakubo (a fitting homage to Tokyo, perhaps), but the rough-stitched unfinished hems and imperfect patching—particularly of a standout shirtdress cut from white and red cottons and silk scarves—displayed a nice handwork that felt distinctly, beautifully Pinoy in its essence.
