Avel Bacudio swings big with Filipino sports luxe

The noted Filipino fashion designer merges traditional Filipino aesthetics with contemporary sportswear

- JOHN ROLAND LEGASPI

Over the years, we have seen the line between sportswear and fashion blur.

The athleisure movement blends people's need for clothing that transitions seamlessly from the gym to casual wear. A true fusion of Filipino style with the contemporary and functional essence of sportswear, however, has remained largely unexplored-until now.

That is precisely what Filipino designer Avel Bacudio unveiled with his latest collection.

Showcased at Intramuros Esplanade, Plaza Mexico in Manila City, on March 25, 2025, Avel's collection, dubbed "Gintong Sinag," presents his take on sports luxe-a trend that merges high-end luxury with athletic elements. In this case, high-end luxury is defined by garments imbued with Filipino heritage.