Photographed by Artu Nepomuceno
Carl Jan Cruz
“Topograpiya” (“Topography”)“It is birthed from an archipelago that’s united by thousands of islands. There is something special about being one and also distanced still by water altogether.”
“It is birthed from an archipelago that’s united by thousands of islands. There is something special about being one and also distanced still by water altogether.”
Taking a team of three and 56 hours to complete, Carl Jan Cruz’s structured ensemble is born from thousands of islands both united and divided by water.
Topography is the study of the Earth’s land surfaces and forms. It’s an apt title for Carl Jan Cruz’s ensemble, which is, in its own way, a map of the Philippines. “It’s an abstracted reference of the articles mainly found in Luzon for the silhouette, and using mainly a mix of weaved textiles from Visayas, and details and finishings that are influenced mainly from Mindanao,” he describes the look.
Using silk abaca and silk cotton from the province of Aklan, CJC pique (which is designer and produced exclusively for the brand), and silk shantung done in topographic quilting and Tupi pleating, it’s a tactile experience of the country’s many islands. CJ says, “It is birthed from an archipelago that’s united by thousands of islands. There is something special about being one and also distanced still by water altogether.”
The structured ensemble comes in varying shades of cream, its most prominent detail being the overcoat’s protruding peplum hem patterned after the butterfly sleeves of the terno. Its voluminous hips and sleeves are contrasted by a cinched waist, thanks to a twist belt with blood red accents. It took a team of three and 56 hours to complete.
On its second anniversary, Vogue Philippines invites homegrown and global creatives to Vogue Threads, an experience that weaves Philippine culture, creativity, and community into the world. Its inaugural edition celebrates Filipino artistry and heritage, through an exhibit featuring the works of designers from the islands of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
Photographer: Artu Nepomuceno. Art Director: Jann Pascua. Fashion Editor: David Milan. Production Designer: Riza Rosal. Producer: Anz Hizon, Bianca Zaragoza. Photography Assistants: Odan Juan, Lou Fajardo. Styling Assistants: KJ Villanueva, Miguel Rafael Timbol. Production Design Assistant: Christian Manlunas. PR Associate: Sophia Correa. Backdrop: Espacio Creativo Escolta.
