Photographed by Artu Nepomuceno
Karl Nadales
“Bitoon sa Dagat” (“Star in the Sea”)“It serves as a representation of people’s compass on a journey that involves dreams, sacrifices, challenges, and discoveries.”
“It serves as a representation of people’s compass on a journey that involves dreams, sacrifices, challenges, and discoveries.”
For Vogue Threads, an Iloilo designer presents his outlook on the journey through life with a thoughtful selection of materials and design techniques.
In “Bitoon sa Dagat,” or “Star in the Sea,” Iloilo native Karl Nadales crafts a poignant narrative of life’s journey, drawing from his personal experiences and cultural heritage. He envisions the guiding star as a symbol of dreams, sacrifices, and challenges, and discoveries portraying the path as both fluid and deliberate, akin to navigating the vast, unpredictable sea.
For his contribution to Vogue Threads, Nadales features a piece made out of cotton staple, mercerized thread, and silk noil. The integration of French knots and basting stitches play a crucial role in this design, which the designer alludes to “the idea of reaching one’s destination.” Further explaining the techniques seen in the work, Nadales says that the intricate French knots mirror milestones and achievements, while the basting stitches reflect moments of uncertainty or transition along the way.
Together, these elements illustrate a complex life’s journey, where each stitch contributes to a broader narrative of growth. Nadales’ meticulous approach balances restraint and depth, allowing the craftsmanship to leave a quiet yet profound impression.
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: Schmidli Backdrops.
