On the first day of the event, Vogue Talks, Vogue Philippines’ signature forum on the art and business of fashion, kicks off a hybrid series featuring global and local visionaries.
Vogue Threads Manila 2024 brings the world of Philippine fashion and design to center stage, weaving culture, creativity, and community. The three-day event fosters thought-provoking discussions, talent discovery, and networking opportunities to uplift Filipino creatives and businesses.
The event opens with a compelling lineup of talks and panels, diving into topics such as sustainable design, cultural exchange, and advocacy for marginalized voices.
Craft, Creativity, and Cultural Exchange with Kenneth Cobonpue
Kenneth Cobonpue, the celebrated Cebu-based industrial designer and furniture maker, will open Vogue Threads Manila with a talk on craft, creativity, and cultural exchange. Renowned for his innovative use of natural materials like the Arurog vine, Cobonpue’s designs seamlessly merge contemporary aesthetics with Filipino heritage.
A graduate of Pratt Institute and a recipient of its prestigious Pratt Legend title, he honed his skills in Italy and Germany before establishing his brand in 1995. From being named Maison et Objet’s first Designer of the Year for Asia to earning the moniker “rattan’s great virtuoso” by TIME Magazine, Cobonpue has set a global benchmark for sustainable and culturally informed design. His dedication to mentoring aspiring creatives and his commitment to Philippine design development have solidified his influence in Southeast Asia and beyond.
Creating an Impact: Building Pathways for Change with Amanda Nguyen
Amanda Nguyen, a social entrepreneur, activist, and astronaut, will discuss building pathways for change in a conversation moderated by Karen Davila. Known for founding the nonprofit Rise and spearheading legislative victories for sexual assault survivors’ rights in the U.S. and the United Nations, Nguyen’s advocacy spans gender, race, and justice.
As the first Vietnamese and Southeast Asian woman to travel to space on Blue Origin’s upcoming mission, she continues to inspire global movements, including Stop Asian Hate. With accolades like a Nobel Peace Prize nomination and recognition as a TIME Woman of the Year, Nguyen exemplifies resilience and dedication to uplifting marginalized voices while advancing the boundaries of human potential.
Art and Business of Fashion with Patty Ang, Rajo Laurel, Jappy Gonzales, and Cris Roque
Moderated by Vogue Philippines fashion director Pam Quiñones, fashion designers Patty Ang and Rajo Laurel, along with HF Retail Concepts founder Jappy Gonzalez, and Department of Trade and Industry chief and Kamiseta founder Cris Roque, bring diverse perspectives on fashion, retail, and innovation to this panel.
Ang, celebrated for her minimalist aesthetic and refined craftsmanship, has redefined accessible elegance with her bespoke atelier and ready-to-wear brand PATTON, while Laurel, a household name blending Filipino traditions with global design principles, showcases his commitment to artisanal details and innovation in both couture and ready-to-wear collections.
“A conversation is always about being open. A good dialogue should always leave us thinking and learning more,” Laurel says. “I hope that I am able to share and my own small way leave some insight and knowledge to the conversation. In as much as I am also hoping to leave that talks with valuable lessons and insight.”
Gonzalez has revolutionized contemporary retail through his multi-brand stores and collaborations, and for introducing global luxury brands like Balenciaga and Off-White to Manila, bridging international fashion and Filipino consumers. Meanwhile, Sec. Roque leverages her entrepreneurial success to craft policies that empower Filipino entrepreneurs, championing resilient, globally competitive businesses rooted in local culture. Together, they illuminate the synergy between creativity, commerce, and innovation in shaping the future of Philippine fashion and retail.
The Future of Fashion with Desmond Lim and Martina Bonnier
Vogue Singapore’s Desmond Lim and Vogue Scandinavia’s Martina Bonnier will join Vogue Philippines editor-in-chief Bea Valdes to examine the future of fashion.
“I believe the future of fashion is no longer about looking at just clothes alone. Brands now need to create scenarios or experiences where fashion can exist seamlessly,” Lim shares. “I am looking forward to fully immerse myself in the world of creative, craft and community building as seen through the lens of Vogue Philippines.”
Bonnier, who launched Vogue Scandinavia, champions sustainability and Nordic talent through a digital-first and eco-conscious approach. Together, they will highlight how regional perspectives can reshape the global fashion narrative while advancing innovation and inclusivity.
- Aspiring Creatives Meet Expert Eyes at the Vogue Threads Portfolio Review
- Vogue Philippines Is Holding a Casting Call in Manila
- Inside Vogue Threads: Paris 2024, A Celebration That Weaves Philippine Fashion, Art, and Culture into the World
- Inside PHx Fashion Conference 2023: Fostering Homegrown Talent For A Global Audience
