Fashion for all
Is fashion for all shapes and sizes possible? With new label Androgyne, the answer is a resounding “yes”
Is fashion for all shapes and sizes possible? With new label Androgyne, the answer is a resounding “yes”
Who is Luis Espiritu? In the world of fashion, he may not be a household name like Rajo Laurel, Rhett Eala, or JC Buendia, but among industry insiders, Luis is one of the most respected names. So when he asked 26 of his closest fashion-industry friends to walk for him at last week’s Manila Fashion Festival, no one hesitated to say yes. And I am proud to say that I was one of them!
Luis Espiritu began his career in the fashion industry over 20 years ago and has established himself as an in-demand stylist, creative director, and fashion journalist. He also dabbled in photography and being a model agent, and has been mentor to aspiring stylists, makeup artists, models, and photographers. But his most recent incarnation is as a designer.
“It was the middle of last year when I styled a shoot us- ing clothes from [online shopping site] Seek The Uniq,” recalls Luis. “I liked their vibe and their aesthetic. Working with their pieces gave me an idea for a unisex line. I approached [owner] Mikka Padua about it and she liked my idea.” By October 2014, Androgyne debuted on seektheuniq.com a 10-piece collection of wide-leg pants, reversible shirts, shorts, tees, and a robe, which easily became the best seller and quickly sold out.
Last Friday was the formal launch of Androgyne (now on its third season). As the fourth label to be presented on day two of Manila Fashion Festival, Luis’ show opened with a male model wearing slouchy pants and a cape over a shirtless torso. Polite applause. But when familiar faces—mostly non-models—started appearing on the catwalk one by one, it became apparent that this segment was different. Different and fun—which was a reflection of the collection.
“I initially wanted to address the market of metrosexuals, as well as women who aren’t into the ‘feminine’ style of dressing,” says Luis about Androgyne. “But because fashion is constantly changing and the androgynous look has now become mainstream, I realized that the brand was really meant for everyone—for people who are comfortable in their own skin regardless of sex, sexual orientation, shape, and size.”
So there we were, the “real people” for whom the clothes were made—editors, designers, photographers, and other behind-the-scenes personalities of all heights, shapes, and sizes. While walking that 70foot runway may have caused any of us to panic, strangely enough, it didn’t faze us at all— because that’s how comfortable we felt. In our own skin and in Androgyne.
Androgyne’s new collection will be available on www. seektheuniq.com by first week of November