Manila the Studio combines the traditional with modern-day casuals
An homage to heritage—it’s a theme that is frequent in our local fashion scene nowadays. We see this happen as reinterpretations of the national costume are streamlined through various homegrown brands, natural textiles known in our country are often utilized in collections, and awareness is given to the communities that create their unique weaves. It’s quite refreshing and reassuring to see our culture championed proudly through diverse acts in the fashion landscape.
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Though one particular brand has recently caught our attention with their advocacy and their unique interpretation of Philippine culture. A fusion of the beauty of nature and the rich history of our country, Manila the Studio explores the traditional with new lenses of fashion.
The scenery in the Philippines is truly like no other, and it’s the beauty in our landscape that Manila the Studio heavily grounds their creative codes on, which is infused with the natural fibers our country produces.
Designed for the day-to-day Filipina, the brand advocates for the daily use of the piña, which are woven by a community of weavers from Aklan. The signature fabric is then passed on to an atelier where each piece is made with such distinct construction.
One piece we can’t help but adore is their Tui top inspired by a native flower, the Mangrove Trumpet. Its rigid edged petals are a contrast to the pure white shade the flower has, a detail that Manila the Studio included in their design. Adorned with a petal-like drape tiered in three sections, the top can be worn folded or upright. And to make it everyday-friendly, the brand added silk organza for the lining.
Another reinterpreted design is their Bolero. The piece is contemporary and on trend as the shrug features a cutout by the bust while classic mother pearls run down at the back of the piece. For a cohesive look, you can opt to pair it with Halina bralette.
Though the collection consists of only a few pieces, we can’t wait to see how Manila the Studio ventures further into their advocacy and their unique iterations of the culture we are proudly embracing.
Photos from MANILA THE STUDIO (via Instagram)
