Filipinxt brings PH fashion design excellence to global stage
“FILIPINXT,” an event that celebrates local talent in fashion design and the arts, is set to bring the works of distinct Filipino designers to New York.
A play of words combining the gender-neutral -x suffix with “Filipino” and “next”— it is all about representing Filipino creativity on all fronts. Led by New York-based fashion designer Bessie Besana and restaurateur Rob Mallari-D’Auria, the showcase is on a mission to open doors of opportunity in New York for Filipino creatives, a chance for them to be seen and recognized in one of the major fashion capitals of the world.
The show will take place at the historic 4W43 Building on May 5. Designed by Clarence Luce for David King Jr. between 1890 and 1891, the landmark offers the perfect venue to spotlight the best of Filipino fashion with its Renaissance Revival architecture and innovative event spaces.
Meet the designers
For its inaugural show, Filipinxt will present the collections of four talented Filipino designers.
Leading the pack is Besana, whose dreamy silhouettes celebrate the beauty of the human form. He will showcase “Whispers of the Cosmos,” a 15-piece collection for men and women imbued with the allure of the universe.
“Filipinxt is a dream come true. One of my goals is to become a show producer and Filipinxt is my personal foray into that,” Besana mused.
Known for her minimalist and contemporary works is Manilaborn Los Angeles-based designer Veejay Floresca. Floresca will unveil a collection that stems from men’s dressing attitudes, but “only made provocative and refreshingly new.”
“The collection draws inspiration from menswear, incorporating tailored silhouettes and classic elements with a modern twist to create a sexy and fashion-forward aesthetic,” Floresca explained.
Meanwhile, Wilson Limon found his voice in the industry by championing local tapestries. Through his brand, NIñOFRANCO he created pieces that stitch together the story of modern Filipinos and the heritage of Mindanao’s ethnolinguistic communities.
“Titled ‘Taniba,’ it encapsulates the essence of preparing the land for cultivation, reflecting the intricate blend of cultural richness and artisanal expertise,” he added.
After taking on his brother’s legacy in the local fashion scene, Michael Leyva became one of the most sought-after designers in the Philippines. For Filipinxt, the designer is crafting an all-white parade, finding the beauty in fine details through luxe materials and complex embellishments.
“My Filipino heritage and couture background are still very much present, infusing every piece with that touch of artistry and craftsmanship. This time around, I’m really focusing on textiles, fabric manipulations, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in couture,” Leyva shared.
Match made in heaven
Besides the works of the four Filipino designers, the runways of Filipinxt will be lit up with a special segment courtesy of Marriott Hotel Manila.
“Together with Filipinxt, we aim to redefine Marriott Moments into a purposeful advocacy, breaking stereotypes and setting new milestones by going ‘Glocal,’ hosting events in the various venues of Marriott Manila Hotel including the majestic Marriott Grand Ballroom in Manila and in iconic locations like New York featuring world-class Filipino talent on a global stage,” said Marriott
Hotel Manila’s cluster director of marketing communications Archiemedes Nicasio.
Marriott Hotel Manila is planning to bring a taste of its illustrious “Marry Me at Marriott” showcase to Filipinxt. The New York show will also mark the shift of “Marry Me at Marriott” to “Gratus Philippine Gala,” a full-blown event celebrating stories of love and life’s dreams and winning moments.
“With the theme ‘Paving the Way to More Winning Moments,’ the gala will feature segments highlighting various life’s milestones beyond weddings, reflecting Marriott Hotel Manila’s commitment to creating meaningful experiences,” Nicasio explained.
Spirit of the global Filipino
Besides from Besana and MallariD’Auria, also on board for Filipinxt is Yancy Trinidad, an experienced producer and creative director. He will be directing “Filipinxt,” which will feature a grand twin runway to best present the collections. Meanwhile, Filipino documentarian Kenneth Anderson will chronicle what goes on and behind the runway to give everyone an all-access view of “Filipnxt,” from its creation down to its final moments.
“We want this venture to be an avenue for all of us to represent the best talent we have. We also want this event to be a melting pot of all the businesses that we want to go together, to collaborate to be able to expand their networks, expand horizon,” he expressed.