Four Filipino designers shine at New York Fashion Week

NEW YORK CITY—February is a month of dual significance: for many, it’s a celebration of love, but for fashion enthusiasts, it signals one of the most pivotal events on the fashion calendar. New York City, a global fashion hub, buzzes with the showcase of fall and winter collections during its renowned Fashion Week.

In this vibrant milieu, the Filipino-American connection sparkles as four designers of Filipino heritage unveil their latest creations across various venues.

Los Angeles-based costume designer Carl Andrada took to the stage on Feb. 10 at the West Edge, presenting a line that reimagines traditional Filipiniana and barong attire. Andrada‘s designs cater to women of all sizes and ages who are unafraid to command attention, whether at a party, on the red carpet or at a beauty pageant.

Crafted with indigenous Philippine materials, Andrada’s pieces are beautifully complemented by the exquisite handiwork of Maria Victoria Mejia. Mejia’s minaudière bags, meticulously fashioned from Philippine shells and pearls, highlight the masterful artistry of Cebuano artisans, imbuing the collection with a deep cultural resonance.

Models and beauty queens look elegant in modern barong and terno designed by Carl Andrada, complemented by Victoria’s Craft necklace and earrings, and a Viktorya minaudière at The Bureau Fashion Week. Both Andrada and Mejia are based in Los Angeles, Calif. Photos from the Bureau Fashion

Mejia, formerly a medical technologist, has reinvented herself as a celebrated designer of high-end minaudière bags through her brand, Viktorya Minaudière. Her designs celebrate the finesse of Filipino craftsmanship and are distinguished by their bespoke, personalized touch. Using premium materials such as mother of pearl, her creations effortlessly merge elegance with practicality, offering a stylish solution for carrying essentials.

At the Angel Orensanz Center during Art Hearts Fashion Week, two unique visions captivated the audience. David Tupaz, a Las Vegas-based veteran couturier, stayed true to his signature style, which blends the timeless allure of classic fashion with a hint of Parisian chic. His collection, dominated by black dresses, was enlivened by occasional splashes of vivid color. Tupaz asserts that although fashion trends may come and go, the essence of style is eternal, ever-evolving but never repeating. His presentation was so well-received that it garnered a standing ovation from some attendees. Tupaz’s devotion to fashion is a testament to his expertise, reminiscent of the days when he produced his shows at the Philippine consulate with a blend of passion and precision, never compromising on comfort and confidence for the wearer.

David Tupaz presents a stunning collection of timeless elegance at Art Hearts Fashion during New York Fashion Week. The Las Vegas-based veteran couturier returned to the runway, showcasing over 20 pieces that capture the essence of the 1960s era. Photos from Arts Hearts Fashion

Sharing the same venue, Chona Bacaoco, an upcoming talent from Italy, made a much-awaited return to the stage. The anticipation was fitting for a designer who had previously created an exceptional piece for a member of the Gucci family. Now based in Milan, Bacaoco’s show featured models with significant Filipino American heritage, such as Lilly and Leo, children of media pioneer and women’s commissioner Jannelle So of LA County, and Isa and Teo Briones, the children of Hollywood actor Jon Jon Briones.

Jannelle said as a mom, one of the best feelings in the world is seeing her kids thrive, discovering new things, and enjoying experiences, and this NYFW experience ranks high up. While this is Lilly’s third fashion week after Milan and Paris, her youngest Leo made his runway debut. Being a stage mom has been stressful and tiring she adds, “but my physical exhaustion is trumped by my kids’ excitement.”

The presence of Filipino designers at New York Fashion Week is a testament to their individual talents and the burgeoning influence of Filipino fashion on the global stage. These designers present a unique fusion of Philippine craftsmanship, heritage and contemporary design sensibilities that can rival mainstream brands. Their participation is a cultural exchange that enhances the Fashion Week experience, introducing fresh perspectives and diversity to the design landscape.

Filipina Italian designer Chona Bacaoco, based in Milan, is celebrated for dressing the granddaughter of Gucci, one of Italy’s most iconic fashion houses. She presented her latest designs at Art Hearts Fashion, showcasing her elegant fall/winter ‘24 collection. Notably, four of her runway models were the children of two prominent FilAms: media pioneer Jannelle So and Hollywood actor JonJon Briones. Photos from Arts Hearts Fashion

It is my ardent hope to witness the emergence of a dedicated Filipino American Fashion Week in the future. Such an event would serve as a platform for Filipino designers from around the world to display their work, celebrating their heritage and their contributions to the international fashion industry. As the Filipino presence in New York’s fashion scene grows stronger with each season, the prospect of such a celebration becomes increasingly tangible.

In celebrating these designers, we acknowledge the rich tapestry of cultures that make up the American fabric, as well as the unique threads of Filipino heritage that contribute to the world of fashion. It is a testament to the talent and creativity that thrives within the Filipino community, and a beacon of inspiration for future generations to take the stage with confidence.

The impact of these designers at New York Fashion Week goes beyond aesthetics; it is about representation, identity and the power of cultural expression. Their success is a reminder that fashion is not just about clothing—it is a language that transcends borders, a narrative woven with the threads of individuality and tradition.

As we look to the future, we anticipate the continued rise of Filipino designers at prestigious fashion events worldwide. They carry with them not only their personal visions but also the collective dreams of a nation rich in creativity and passion. The Fil-Am Connection at New York Fashion Week is not just a momentary trend; it is a burgeoning movement, marking the beginning of an enduring legacy in the global fashion industry.