Art & Pride

This is art in fashion: local artisanship, self-expression, and social satire.

- MARIAN SAN PEDRO

1. ADANTE LEYESA 

Adante Leyesa celebrates being Filipino by creating bold, outstanding bags and necklaces made by hand. Notable for partnering with local artisans, he revives and revolutionizes the traditional beading, embroidery, and tapestry to form his art and story. “Pinoy pride for me is an authentic passion for loving what is Filipino,” Leyesa says. “It manifests beyond supporting local. It is an innate, genuine state of mind, and that which embraces our culture beyond praises and recognition.”

2. EARL GARIANDO

An eponymous local brand that focuses on distinctive and exotic local materials, Earl Gariando infuses artisanship with classical repoussè metalcraft work. “I envision Philippine fashion as something distinctive as you express and appreciate the works of local designers and artisans,” Gariando says. “The kind of creativity and craftsmanship which you cannot find anywhere in the world.”

3. NEIL FELIPP

Neil Felipp’s design ideology is to become a globally recognized Philippine luxury brand that works with local craftsmen in creating appealing and timeless pieces. For Felipp, Pinoy pride is seen in the little things, such as buying locally made pieces, whether an apparel, delicacy, or craft. “It is through these humble acts of supporting our fellow Filipinos that we take pride in our heritage and community,” Felipp shares. “I look forward to the day that I see more Filipinos wear local brands on a daily basis.”

4. MELE AND MARIE