Exploration of contrasts

When contrasts no longer collide, magic starts to happen. When you realize that opposites complement, it opens up to opportunities of infinite possibilities and maximizes potential.

This is what I can say of two successful independent retail brands – clothing label Edited Limited and accessories label Adante Layesa -- which brilliantly come together to participate in their first ever New York Fashion Week.

Breaking into the fashion capital on 8 February on FilipiNXT, Edited Limited X Adante Layesa made a strong and distinct fashion statement with their collection entitled Tough Love. Brought about by both brand’s conflicting design principles and styles, their collaboration resulted in a collection showcasing a masterful exploration of contrasts.

One-of-a-kind unfiltered solid looks (mostly separates) gave value to tactile fabrics, bright color palettes, textured edges, embellishments and the employment of movements.

More than the grandeur and splendor of fashion, the collection reflects the genuine commitment to community and partner artisans wherein they are offered sustainability and economic opportunity to earn and add value to their life.

It also indicates the brands’ seriousness or dedication and commitment to recycling and upcycling of old garments, factory scrap fabrics, trimmings, beads and other components for disposal — to renew and create innovative garments. This includes innovating on the dying technique of beading, embroidery, tapestry and the like in the hope of achieving cultural, economic and environmental preservation.

Tough Love is marriage and celebration of the designers’ LOVE and togetherness spanning almost two decades. It’s about their love to families from both ends. No matter how tough, far in contrast, different or extreme opposites, when there is love and with good intentions, whether work or personal, love wins.