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The winners of Stitch-Off Urban Vibe Fashion Show competition. (Photo courtesy DOST STII) |
by: Jumalynne Doctolero
QUEZON CITY, (PIA) — Young designers and creatives are scientists just as much as they are artists, according to Dr. Julius L. Leaño, Jr., Director of the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI).
Dr. Leaño shared this message during the “Stitch-Off Urban Vibe Fashion Show,” which concluded the recent the 2024 National Youth Science, Technology, and Innovation Festival at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.
The official emphasized that the Stitch-Off competition serves as a platform for young designers to showcase their innovation and development in Philippine textiles. “Stitch-Off is a techno-innovation fashion design and garment-making competition with science, technology, and innovation at its core,” he said, highlighting the use of Philippine Tropical Fabrics (PTF) and KAWAYARN developed by the Institute.
For designers, he noted, clothing creation involves mathematics, material science, precision, and measurement, merging technical skills with creativity and cultural values. Dr. Leaño also announced ongoing collaborations between DOST, PTRI, and the fashion industry to promote the fusion of textiles, culture, science, and entrepreneurship.
Chuck Lazaro, VP for Export at Asia Textile Mills Inc., echoed this sentiment, stating, “If we all work together, I believe the Philippines could become a sustainable textile hub for the world.”
The competition crowned a finalist from the Fashion Institute of the Philippines (FIP) as the champion for their collection titled “Kayo-d,” which utilized upcycled teacher uniforms to promote sustainability. Designers Chris Dale, JM San Juan, and Melvic Martinez drew inspiration from the hardworking individuals along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA), celebrating the often-overlooked contributions of construction workers and street vendors.
“Sa kabuuan, ang Kayo-d ay higit pa sa kasuotan; ito ay isang pagdiriwang ng pagsusumikap at dedikasyon (In essence, Kayo-d is more than clothing; it is a celebration of hard work and dedication),” the designers shared, emphasizing their collection’s deeper message.
The second place went to the “Telakpak” collection by designers from SOFA Design Institute, inspired by the vibrant atmosphere of Ylaya Street in Divisoria. Their designs captured the rich cultural and historical landscape of the area.
Claiming third place and the “Youth Fave Award” were designers Addy Bargo and Leira Mondragon from Iloilo Science and Technology University with their collection “Duyan,” which connects individuals to nature and roots amidst urban life. (JVD/PIA-NCR)
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