Sense of sustainability

Two decades in the fashion industry mark the artistry of Jor-el Espina, a seasoned fashion designer. These 20 years in design were highlighted and immortalized through “Vanguards” a milestone celebration of three cultural proponents — DAILY TRIBUNE, Salcedo Auctions and Espina himself, held recently at Salcedo Auctions, Nex Tower, Makati City.

Design with purpose anchored the latest collection that echoed conscious fashion. With sustainability in its DNA, there was a high level of mindfulness in the process of creation. Masterpieces were made from barong scraps and deadstock fabrics. The resulting collective was a statement of elevated Filipiñana that can be worn every day and everywhere.

It was an arresting and captivating palette of contemporary neutrals filled with a closet-full of mix-and- match pieces that were functional and practical. These coveted wardrobe essentials showed maturity in design; contemporary use of local fabrication or textiles and style expositions; and evolving updated manners of wear.

Moving ahead of the pack, Espina is consciously pushing the future of fashion forward. He is a humble and patriotic artist whose vision is to consciously create more relevant clothing — and continue his legacy of celebrating artisans, heritage, culture and all that is Filipino.