Photographed by Artu Nepomuceno
Jojie Lloren
“Katahimikan” (Silence)“I thought of a concept that echoes serenity and peace; something that merges French and Filipino, the past and the present.”
“I thought of a concept that echoes serenity and peace; something that merges French and Filipino, the past and the present.”
A quiet yet resonant piece that elegantly glides through time periods.
From the silhouette to the techniques used, designer and Vogue Threads co-chair Jojie Lloren creates a poetic reflection on serenity that transcends time. Drawing inspiration from the 18th-century Watteau gown, Lloren reinterprets its wide pleats and flowing lines through the use of indigenous abaca fiber, derived from plants native to the Philippines. Beige and ecru tones wash over the gown’s laminated cotton muslin base, with hand-sewn abaca strands adding texture and depth, providing a tactile contrast that turns the piece into a seamless fusion of French romanticism and Filipino heritage as what the designer envisioned.
Lloren shares his excitement about showcasing the piece at the exhibition alongside several talented Filipino designers, noting, “I’m looking forward to and hoping for favorable reactions re Philippine design from foreign fashion insiders.” Through marrying traditional Filipino materials with time-honored European techniques, Lloren crafts a gown that speaks to both past and present, resonant even in silence.
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.
