A display of artistry and unconventional creations recently took the spotlight in an innovation exhibit that kicked off the Philippine Textile Congress at the Dusit Thani Hotel Ballroom Foyer in Makati City recently.

The event, organized by the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Textile Research Institute (DoST-PTRI), featured the works of up-and-coming student-designers from 14 institutions across the country. It unveiled an assortment of fashion-forward garments made by the top 18 finalists of the Stitch-Off: Urban Vibe Competition.

The handcrafted textiles, which highlighted inclusivity in terms of style, were made from locally sourced materials. Every item was derived from Philippine tropical fabrics.

De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde’s Pasa-Hero was a chic and functional apparel that can help ease one’s struggle amid Metro Manila’s traffic jams and unpredictable travel times for a comfortable commute.

In addition, there was also a catwalk-worthy selection of naturally dyed clothes from the Fashion Design and Merchandising Program. The special showcase was spearheaded by the Textile Design Program under the existing partnership with DoST-PTRI and the School of Environment and Design.

One of the collections was of banig-weave pineapple cloth. An ideal fabric to evade the heat, piña seda was the primary material used in the classic streetwear pieces, complemented by a hand-drawn graffiti design.

“Ternohemian” was a fusion of traditional Filipino attire and bohemian fashion. To complete a modern Filipiniana look, the five-piece ensemble was composed of a bralette with terno sleeves, a tapis-inspired layering in the lower garments, pleated palazzo pants and macrame-like shawl.

On the other hand, “Personal Divine” was a heartwarming celebration of motherhood. The highlight was the bra, a trompe l’oeil of breasts in reference to breastfeeding women. The feminine skirt was likewise an eye-catcher, characterized by its free-flowing tiers.

To advocate slow fashion, “Iunctura” utilized alternative construction techniques such as crochet, patchwork and draping. It paid tribute to local craftsmanship and age-old traditions as well as empower communities through sustainable livelihoods.

The connection between nature and spirituality was the main theme of “Tempest” with the use of palaspas as a design inspiration. The upper half of the garment was reminiscent of an item which survived rough typhoon winds.