A vibrant challenge unfolded in Quezon City, transforming discarded materials into breathtaking fashion. Retashow, a sustainability project spearheaded by the local government, showcased the ingenuity of ten finalists determined to breathe new life into textile waste.
The atmosphere at SM Fairview on April 24th crackled with anticipation as designers presented their creations before a discerning panel. Judges included renowned designer Avel Bacudio, Julius Leaño, Jr. from the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute, and Wear Forward founder Prince Jimdel Ventura. Each garment was meticulously evaluated not only for its aesthetic appeal, but also for its wearability and the percentage of recycled content – a minimum of 70% was required.
This year’s theme, “twinning,” demanded a unique level of creativity. Designers weren’t simply crafting single outfits; they were building cohesive looks for two models, exploring the concept of mirrored style and resourceful design.
Nino Casiwan’s collection brilliantly blended the familiar with the unexpected. He skillfully repurposed old curtains, kitchen towels, and studio scraps into a playful patchwork shorts set, perfectly complemented by a Mod-inspired skirt. The result was a vibrant testament to imaginative reuse.
Edel Santiago embraced natural dyes, extracting rich hues from mangosteen, coconut husk, and onions to color discarded white cotton. This resulted in a stunning *terno*-bolero ensemble with a flowing tulip skirt, paired with a bold, wide-lapelled jacket for a male model. Delicate lace served as a canvas, adorned with carefully patched fabric.
Janeth Belchez drew inspiration from Filipino tradition, reimagining the *balintawak* native dress with a modern twist. She incorporated her own take on *trapu*, the traditional patchwork made from fabric scraps, using shimmering satin remnants to create a captivating dotted effect on the skirt. Puffed sleeves, generously stuffed with more scraps, added volume and dynamic movement.
Evelyn Rocela focused on the younger generation, crafting charming outfits for children. A boy’s vest set was constructed from woven scraps anchored by a denim base, while a girl’s ensemble featured a full-length coat in a similar, delightfully grunge aesthetic.
Danryl Purisima presented a versatile polo shirt ensemble alongside a casual denim look that cleverly transformed into a longer, more elaborate outfit. Jashmin Iballo dared to be avant-garde, incorporating leopard-print scraps and striking hoods into her designs.
Ron Renigado’s denim patchwork outfit was a standout, featuring a unique back-buttoned closure, a playful denim pussybow, and a practical apron. A matching dress echoed the design, secured with a front zipper – so captivating, it was purchased directly off the runway.
Sophia Servando skillfully repurposed printed chintz and batik fabrics salvaged from curtains and *daster*, the ubiquitous Filipino housedress, into elegant sundresses. Prince Galang’s designs showcased the transformative power of denim, turning maxi skirts into minis and repurposing leftover fabric into stylish bags. Even pant legs were unzipped and reimagined as shorts, with the excess material cleverly crafted into coordinating bags.
Ultimately, Prince Galang, Ron Renigado, and Nino Casiwan emerged as the winners, each receiving a prize of P70,000 and a commemorative plaque. Their creations weren’t just garments; they were statements about the potential of circular fashion.
Beyond the runway, Quezon City is actively championing sustainability. A single-use plastic ban and the newly enacted Textile Sustainability and Circularity Ordinance (SP-3472, S-2025) are cornerstones of this commitment. The city is building a comprehensive system for textile collection, processing, and redistribution – prioritizing repair, reuse, and recycling.
The innovative Kilo/s QC, a weight-based secondhand clothing store located within the Quezon City Hall complex, is directly funding public school tutoring programs. This initiative has already helped reduce the number of non-reading children in Quezon City by 2,000, proving that textile reuse can have a profound impact on education.
The city’s efforts have already diverted approximately 10,000 kilograms of clothing from landfills. A Circularity Hub established in Payatas provides livelihood opportunities for women, training them as weavers for a burgeoning cultural enterprise. Even discarded corporate wear is being collected and donated to job applicants in need.
“We have shown what sustainability can truly be,” declared the mayor, emphasizing the city’s dedication to a circular economy. She herself leads by example, frequently re-wearing outfits, a practice she jokingly admits has prompted concern for her clothing budget. “When it comes to sustainable fashion, one of the strongest messages we can send is using clothes that are already in our wardrobe.”
