farm to fabric

The proud and powerful story of cotton, inabel, and agriculture in fashion manifests on the runway of Algodon

- MARIAN SAN PEDRO and CARYL CABUHAT

Nature, life, and thought-provoking art brought a purposeful fashion narrative to life at the Pinto Art Museum through a fashion show called Algodon.

Directly translating to "cotton," the Spanish term algodon became representative of the Filipino fashion community, cultivating a lifestyle in agriculture, particularly the revitalization of cotton farming.

Five Filipino designers-BARBA, JC Buendia, Anthony Nocom, Randy Ortiz, and Pepito Albert-presented their interpretation of the ethically sourced and sustainable cotton fibers. The materials were all produced locally at the now 20-hectare cotton farm in Pinili, Ilocos Norte, helping over dozens of weavers in the local community.

The designers had their distinct personalities reflected in their collections: from dainty casuals, vivid resort wear, to show-stopping ensembles-all of which proved the versatility of both the cotton and the inabel (Ilocano term for woven cloth) fabric.

PEPITO ALBERT

Capping off the night was model Joan Bitagcol, who took the spotlight as she wore a piece designed by Pepito Albert.

A poufed black skirt matched the exaggerated sleeves of the gray bolero, while her torso was free from any fabric. Made with such simplicity, yet still leaving the audience in awe-a perfect way to end the Algodon fashion show.

ANTHONY NOCOM

"Everyone in the fashion industry-designers, textile millers, clothing manufacturers-has to have a commitment to the cause," says designer Anthony Nocom, adding that there is a lack of awareness among locals when it comes to sustainable fashion.