MANILA, Philippines — Building and growing a community that pushes for a more sustainable future, Kultura presents “Filipino Design Studio,” which puts the spotlight on beautiful and sustainable fashion items and home decor from the country’s finest local brands and artisans, ongoing until Sept. 30 at Kultura, third level, The Podium, Ortigas.
It boasts exquisite modern Filipiniana pieces from Rhett Eala, Ilaya Couture, Nuevo Ystilo, Raffaella and En Barong Filipino, alongside innovative guest brands that give Filipino design a new perspective.
Ken Samudio explores organic forms found in nature using sustainable, recycled and indigenous materials. He creates accessories made of upcycled beads from water plastic bottles, recycled sea glass, and other sustainable materials. His works have been featured in Vogue Italia, WWD, L’Officiel, Glamour, and Cosmopolitan.
Jim Weaver’s stylish silk scarves, including the Jim Weaver x Francis Libiran Collection, is inspired by our people, culture and heritage. Flutter Jewelry’s statement earrings uses traditional bead work techniques, while Matthew and Melka accessories are inspired by local flora and fauna. Mjoiran offers chic copper wire jewelry with precious stones.
These emerging brands also work with local communities and highlights sustainability. There are hand-loomed embroidered fabrics crafted by communities in Abra for Strong Mina; beautiful bags and accessories made from colorful upcycled single-use plastic grocery bags and other disposed plastics by Virtucio; eco-fashion statement bags made from ethically-sourced Carabao horns by Kara de Juan; and natural personal care products by Shepard.
The Filipino Design Studio also showcases items for the home. There’s Haspe’s handcrafted furniture innovative design using wood and solihiya; Art of Gold’s hand-painted home accessories; Millie Monday’s home décor inspired by nature in the tropics; ATIN’s decorative plates and diffusers inspired by Filipino culture; Maison Grid Plus’s rattan and bamboo dinnerware and décor; and The Fine Life Market’s linens, kitchenware, and other home products.