Golden is the future of Philippine fashion, especially with the recent wave of talented graduates emerging from the metro’s top fashion schools.

We selected the strongest collections from the latest graduation shows of De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde, iAcademy, the Fashion Institute of the Philippines, and SoFA Design Institute to introduce you to the next generation of designers who will be at the forefront of Philippine fashion.

Each collection offers something distinct: from precision laser-cut tailoring to meticulously crafted knits. There are poetic reinterpretations of the traditional baro’t saya, as well as delicate, highly skilled approaches to leather craftsmanship. Every designer contributes their own perspective, pushing forward what feels fresh—and what defines the future.

To our dear teachers, fellow classmates–congratulations to the Cool Class of 2025. We did it!

Alessandra Caamic (Dela Salle - College of St. Benilde)

5 words to describe Alessandra’s design aesthetic: Genderless, Fluid, Emotional, Experimental and Modern

Making traditional wear cool is always a challenge, but Alessandra’s collection not only modernizes the barong, but brings forth it's potential through her imaginative technique and vision.

Balud, meaning “wave” in Cebuano, serves as the title of her collection and is clearly reflected in her fabric manipulation. Working with cocoon, jusi, piña, and taffeta, she artfully mimics the ocean’s undulations and ripples through a thoughtful play of color and texture.

Andre Plaus (iAcademy)

5 words to describe Andeng’s design aesthetic: Captured from my childhood nostalgia

Knitwear takes center stage in Andre’s designs. Saccharine colors and silhouettes reminiscent of late ’90s and early ’00s cartoons infuse the collection with a youthful, carefree energy. The pieces feel like a warm, sugary rush of memories.

Using a domestic knitting machine, the designer brings his tween memories to life stitch by stitch. What was once a familiar, almost old-fashioned hobby becomes a platform for innovation. Through unexpected textures and modern proportions, Andre reimagines knitwear as something fresh, expressive, and emotionally resonant.

Chuck Mores (Fashion Institute of the Philippines)

5 words to describe Chuck’s design aesthetic: Elaborate, Elevating, Empowering, Embodying and Evolving

The winning collection of the Fashion Institute of the Philippines’ Graduation Fashion Show was Chuck Mores’ “Takip Silim.” Inspired by the quiet poetry of sunsets, the collection showcases sharp, sculptural tailoring paired with intricate laser-cut details that echo the fading light. Its palette—ranging from deep midnight blues to fiery orange tones—captures the transition from day to night.

Beyond its visual impact, “Takip Silim” is deeply personal. The collection symbolizes Mores’ own metamorphosis: from growing up as a pastor’s son to fully embracing his sexuality and identity. Each piece becomes a chapter in his story—one of courage, self-acceptance, and honoring the past while stepping boldly into a new beginning.

MODOM (Dela Salle - College of St. Benilde)

5 words to describe Dom’s design aesthetic: Sleek, Sensual, Minimal, Textural and Edgy Feminine

MODOM’s Berde Nga Dugo confronts the silent violence endured by the LGBTQ+ community, particularly trans bodies. Through bold, sensual silhouettes, the collection transforms advocacy into couture and visibility into power.

Dramatic forms in vivid green declare queer strength with conviction, echoing the spirit that drives Dom. Quilted fabrics and striking construction further amplify this message.

Rooted in Manila’s ballroom culture, the designer channels its vibrancy and defiance into pieces that celebrate and champion bold queer expression.

Dominique Sonza (IAcademy)

5 words to describe Dominique’s design aesthetic: Soft yet Playful, Vibrant, Imaginative and Expressive.

iAcademy’s Dominique draws inspiration from Fernando Amorsolo’s vibrant depictions of Filipino culture and traditional attire. Like the dance itself, her collection Cariñosa radiates softness, grace, and warmth.

With a color palette inspired by Philippine fruits and flowers, this modern retelling of tradition exudes charm and femininity.

The designer hopes to make you feel as though you’re stepping into an Amorsolo painting—immersed in the joy and richness of our heritage.

Emir Loresto (SoFA Design Institute)

5 words to describe Emir’s design aesthetic: Artistic,.Experimental, Technical, Theatrical and Unapologetic.

Music served as the driving inspiration for Emir’s collection, with beadwork thoughtfully designed to echo the fluidity of soundwave patterns.

Neon green and black duchess satin were manipulated into bubbled and scrunched textures, lending a raw energy to the garments. Adding to this innovative approach, recycled PET bottles were repurposed into bugle beads—infusing the collection with a sustainable element that reflects a cause worth championing.

Entitled “ME,” the collection becomes a celebration not only of music, but also of identity—expressed through material, movement, and meaning.

Sophia Maxine Guiyab (Fashion Institute of the Philippines)

5 words to describe Sophie’s design aesthetic: Classic, Modern, Girlhood, Juxtaposition and Nostalgic

“Life is Soso” is an ode to vintage films and classic prints, reimagined for a new generation. The collection delves into the evolving idea of girlhood in the 21st century through versatile separates that play with mixed prints, hand-painted patterns, and soft, fluid draping.

While the silhouettes feel relaxed and nostalgic, the craftsmanship is unmistakably modern. The standout elements are her impeccable leatherwork and the innovative 3D-printed details.

Designer Sophia set out to create pieces that embody quiet confidence—and she achieves exactly that. The collection feels effortlessly chic, charmingly offbeat and undeniably cool.

Yen Kyla (SoFA Design Institute)

5 words to describe Yen’s design aesthetic: Modern, Structural, Playful with Organized Texture

Hundreds of handcrafted components were meticulously assembled to create the two looks from Yen Kyla’s collection. The standout piece—a true tour de force—uses cowhide leather held together by precision-placed snaps.

The second look features 992 sheer fabric puzzle pieces, each manually cut, with 2,329 adjoining edges beaded one by one.

Rooted in the idea of unfinished thoughts and the passions that shape a person, the collection also explores gender-fluid design through a thoughtful mix of textures, forms, and proportions.

Photography : Christine Day Lorico

Creative Director: Yeoh Egwaras

Managing Editor: Rxandy Capinpin

Editorial Assistant: Venice Collera & Kame Amado

Make Up: Nadynne Esguerra, Kat Olino and Maja Jajalla

Hair: Jan Patrick Froa

Models: Sophia , Jemille, Vienne, Kevin and Jose Carlos

Shot at Olympus Creatives Studios