Vogue Threads Manila Connects the Past, Present, and Future of Filipino Fashion

Through Vogue Threads Manila, creatives, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts gather to celebrate Filipino fashion and beauty in a three-day event at One Ayala, Makati.

In every crafted garment, the strength and quality of the clothing relies on its stitches. Threads, which are often unseen, bind together the materials that bring a designer’s vision to life. Designs are often both new and borrowed; fashion seeks to honor the past while innovating for the future. In a similar fashion, Vogue Philippines held Vogue Threads Manila, a three-day event open to all fashion creatives, entrepreneurs, students, educators, and enthusiasts.

“We have called this event Threads as Vogue weaves the past into the future, integrating technology with tradition, and connecting the Philippines with the world,” says editor-in-chief Bea Valdes during her opening remarks.

During the first two days, all attendees had the opportunity to learn from fashion, beauty, and business leaders on topics such as entrepreneurship, sustainability, and innovation through a series of Vogue Talks. Global Vogue editors Desmond Lim, Martina Bonnier, and Vena Brykalin were keynote speakers, and social media figures Bretman Rock, Heart Evangelista, and Niana Guerrero. Business, tech, fashion, and beauty leaders such as Kenneth Cobonpue, Amanda Nguyen, Leanne Robers, and Emma Chiu also participated in the panel discussions.

In between Vogue Talks, attendees could also view the Vogue Threads exhibition, which was previously displayed at the Palais Galliera in Paris. Associate fashion features editor Ticia Almazan provided an informative walking tour of each maquette design, crafted by Filipino designers and artisans. “It feels like a united effort to celebrate Filipino culture and the craft,” remarks Prince Padilla, one of the designers who contributed to the exhibit.

Renz Reyes, who also designed a maquette for the exhibit, shares his admiration for local designers. “Despite all the limitations we have here, we are able to prevail and do great work,” he says. He also shares his appreciation for the exhibition in Manila: “When I found out they’re bringing it to Manila, I felt happy because Filipino creatives get to experience and also see the work. I feel like these kinds of exhibits are essential, especially for young creatives because we don’t have fashion museums here.”

Attendees also participated in Masterclasses by NARS Cosmetics and Toni & Guy, where they learned the latest beauty techniques firsthand. In the NARS Cosmetics Masterclass, makeup artist Jigs Mayuga demonstrated his technique for applying makeup to achieve a radiant finish. At Toni & Guy, Bill Watson shares the process behind creating his editorial hair looks.

When in need of a break, attendees also enjoyed various booth activations at Vogue Experiences, which included brands such as Auro Chocolate, Security Bank, Dove Beauty, Cibo, and others. 

During the second and third days, aspiring creatives also had the opportunity to hone their skills through Vogue Philippines’ Portfolio Review and Casting Call. At the Portfolio Review, multimedia artists, photographers, stylists, and fashion designers presented their work to a panel consisting of Vogue Philippines art director Jann Pascua, fashion director Pam Ouiñones, fashion editor David Milan, photographer Mark Nicdao, and producer Anz Hizon. Through this process, participants were able to gather insightful and detailed feedback from industry experts.

Vogue Threads Manila concluded with a Vogue Faces casting call. Continuing its pursuit of diversity, inclusivity, and representation, Vogue Philippines welcomed aspiring models from all over Metro Manila to seek faces representing “a modern ideal of beauty.” The casting call was attended by models from all ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds, showcasing the many faces of Filipino beauty.

As the event came to a close, it left an enduring message: that fashion is not merely about style, but also about community, representation, and storytelling. With every thread stitched, a story is woven; a story that connects the past to the future, and the Philippines to the world.