CEBU CHARMS Predicting post-lockdown FASHION
After months of seclusion and wearing boxed-in comfortable house dresses, day and night pyjamas, jogging outfits, oversized shorts and over-worn t-shirts, we will shake off our worries for something dressier
No one knows for sure when this life-changing pandemic will end. What is certain is COVID-19 has altered our day-to-day lives. The fashion industry, like most lifestyle and business sectors, has been gravely affected by the lockdown. Consequently, this new normal will affect as well the clothes we wear.
After months of seclusion and wearing boxed-in comfortable house dresses, day and night pyjamas, jogging outfits, oversized shorts and over-worn t-shirts, we will shake off our worries for something dressier.
Now is the perfect time for the fashion world to rethink and reinvent itself to stay relevant as the world goes through this humanitarian and financial crisis, its ending not yet known or even foreseen.
Will designers incorporate natural fibers with calming colors that would be an essential part of our wardrobe in the future?
We had several chats with Cebu’s sterling fashion designers and these are their thoughts on new fashion trends going forward.
JUN ESCARIO
Post-COVID fashion should be more about being comfortable balanced with trend and wearability.
Considering the non-woven fabric that does not really breath, I would suggest something that is easy to wear. Perhaps a two-piece tunic top paired with comfortable straight cut pants, a wrap-around dress shirt over a basic shift dress with a simple cape cover-up that can be removed easily.
PHILIP RODRIGUEZ
Post-lockdown fashion would mean a well-selected style that is modern classic, understated, comfortable and functional to keep the wearer protected from the virus. It will be a slow start for the fashion industry but we can begin by utilizing our local weaves. This would help our artisans earn a living and keep our crafts alive. The saving factor is that there will always be happy occasions and milestones to celebrate, and that would encourage and inspire individuals to dress up for these events.
As we adapt to the new normal, I believe indulging in these luxuries would keep our spirits high.
JOJO MARTINEZ
Fashion in the new normal should be functional and cost-effective. That beauty lies in straight lines has always been my design philosophy. Also, in the new normal, I believe there is so much opportunity for local products and artisans to shine. This has always been my dream and, hopefully, there is opportunity now to develop and achieve this.
OJ HOFER
Casual: Exposing too much flesh will be considered unhealthy and unhygienic. People will layer loose protective garments over tighter clothes. Evening and cocktails: The Cocoon Look will be common. Some protective silks and diaphanous microfiber in cocoon shape or fluid volumes will be worn over classic, fitted dressed and gowns. Accessories: Lace, silks, microfiber and neoprene will be de rigueur whether embellished or printed and cut in creative
3Dshapes.
DEXTER ALASAS
It is all about sustainable style, going back to basics and using our own local fabrics mixed with up-cycled textiles, a fashion fusion of sorts in form and function with a purpose.