‘Simbang gabi is an underrated phenomenon in fashion’
Misa de gallo-inspired modern Filipino streetwear features local handwoven textiles
Mga Kwento sa Misa De Gallo (Stories from the Dawn Mass), a capsule collection of modern Filipino streetwear made from local handwoven textiles, encapsulates the tradition of Simbang Gabi.
The designs capture the profound cultural experience and the sense of community inspired by the devotional nine-day series of Holy Masses in anticipation of Christmas.
These were conceptualized and created by young artists Brian Razon and Kristina Marie Mariano from the School of Environment and Design (SED) of the De La Salle-college of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB).
“Simbang Gabi is an underrated phenomenon in fashion,” said Razon. “This is when people show off their new clothes. Every year, it is literally like a ‘boujee’ season for all.”
Razon, who grew up attending Simbang Gabi with his late brother, also confessed how personal this theme is to him. He recalled how they used to wake up extra early in the morning to get dressed. They made it their mission to complete all nine masses, even actively chanting the hymns.
“It was during this season I spent most of the time with my brother,”
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Explore Coach’s festive Holiday Gift Shop at Central Square too, where a lively, immersive space captures he said. “We made it like a small competition because, in the end of the novena masses, it was promised we could make a wish.” holiday joy. Open until Jan. 31, 2024, it’s chockful of giftable pieces. Enjoy complimentary treats too as you shop.
Win in wonderland
Shopping gets better as every ₱5,000 minimum spend on all participating SSI Group brands entitles customers to 1 raffle entry to a holiday raffle promo. Earn twice the raffle entry when using the Mastercard credit card or debit card to pay for the transaction. In addition, for every ₱5,000 spent at SSI Group stores, three trees will be planted by the People Planet Coalition. Spend period is until Jan. 31, 2024 while the raffle draw is on Feb. 5, 2024.
For the grand prize, one winner will get a luxurious stay at Discovery
Shores Boracay for two with exclusive access to resort amenities and activities, full board meals, and a private island dinner. It’s also inclusive of round trip AIRTRAV tickets and an SSI shopping
This is why Razon, an Architecture student, was ecstatic to work with Mariano, a Fashion Design and Merchandising aspirant, for spree of ₱300,000 worth of SSI Purple Cards. As a minor prize, three lucky shoppers will each win ₱100,000 worth of SSI Purple Cards, as well as a threeday, two-night accommodation at Huni the project. The duo combined their respective talents to breathe life into the idea. The former rendered his skills in illustration while the latter applied her knowledge in sewing.
The enterprising creatives utilized the elegant piña, a traditional Philippine fiber, which was provided by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI). They also incorporated the versatile hablon, a handwoven textile from Iloilo, traditionally made with a
Lio in El Nido, inclusive of a deluxe room for two, daily breakfast, airport transfers, and use of resort facilities. Lastly, there will be eight minor prize winners of a ₱50,000 SSI shopping spree. handloom using fibers such as abaca, piña, and cotton.
Mga Kwento sa Misa De Gallo (Stories from the Dawn Mass) finished as one of the national finalists of the 2023 Stitch-off Competition organized by the DOST PTRI.
The final output featured three looks. Each set paid homage to the rich history of the Dawn Mass, which was introduced in the 17th century by the Spanish friars so farmers could receive the Holy Eucharist before they headed to the fields.
It even reflected the colors of the alltime favorite Filipino
‘This is when people show off their new clothes. Every year, it is literally like a “boujee” season for all.’
delicacies commonly sold by the church, such as bibingka, a type of rice cake, as well as taho, a snack beloved by Pinoys that is made of fresh soft tofu, arnibal (brown sugar syrup), and sago pearls.
To complete the influences, parol, or the iconic Christmas lantern, served as motivation.
“The process was a full-blown collaboration,” Razon beamed. “Kristina and I worked hand in hand to fill the gaps and we are really happy with the results.”
Discounts galore
Explore a stylish selection of shoes and bags from beloved brands and take advantage of their special offers, available for a limited time. Buy two sale footwear and get an extra 15 percent off at Payless Shoesource. At Bally, there’s 12 percent off on all regular items, except shoe care items, and up to 45 percent off on marked items while a 10 percent discount awaits you if you buy any of the full-priced bags at Coach. Get up to 50 percent off on marked items on select bags and shoes at Kurt Geiger and up to 50 percent off on select regular shoes and bags, plus an additional 15 percent off on sale items, at Dune London. Buy one Pazzion bag or shoes at 12 percent off, or add two or more and get 24 percent off. At Lacoste, meanwhile, the purchase of one item gets you 20 percent off while two items gets you 30 percent. While at it, swing by Lush to soak in the festive spirit and explore it enchanting Christmas and Snow Fairy collection as well. While shopping in-store, My SSI Life loyalty app users, available for download via Apple store, Huawei app gallery, or Google Play, can unwrap even greater savings through the loyalty app points. Simply open the app, and explore the “What’s New” and “Vouchers” tabs for exclusive offers and prizes to look forward to. ssilife.com.ph
Until Christmas Day, Dec. 25, you get the chance to win awesome prizes when you shop at Central Square through its annual Pick-a-prize.