In merely less than two months, local fashion designer Randy Ortiz did what most could only dream of doing: conjure a 32-piece collection to be showcased to the spouses of the ASEAN heads of state. At a luncheon hosted by President Duterte’s common-law wife, Cielito “Honeylet” Avanceña, Ortiz’s Filipiñana inspired extravaganza made its big debut at the historic Manila Hotel, further proving that the Philippine fashion industry is internationally competitive.
Staying true to his roots, Ortiz made excellent use of our signature piña fabric, as well as other indigenous materials sourced locally from provinces like Marawi, Aklan, and Ilocos. Seen in the collection were the likes of two-toned ivory champagne piña terno gowns, blush-dyed barongs, intricate malongs, floral embroideries, and multicolored weaves.
Ortiz also had the privilege of dressing up some of the luncheon’s esteemed guests such as Myanmar state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, DS Rosmah Mansor, and Iriana Joko Widodo for the ASEAN gala night.
“Manila Wear” is Ortiz’s branding initiative that promotes the use of local, indigenous materials in contemporary fashion.
Indeed, Randy Ortiz is living proof that Filipino designers can be seen as more than competent enough to compete in the global fashion arena.
Illustration by JL JAVIER
Images courtesy of RANDY ORTIZ
