Arts Thread

“Children of the Diaspora” celebrates the juxtaposition of two different worlds: the Philippines and the States. Growing up in the states as Filipino-American, it was difficult to feel entirely one or the other, Filipino or American. My collection encapsulates my journey of identity and acceptance through focusing on traditional Filipino garments like the terno sleeve, barong, traditional lace paired with Western tailoring through the use of wool and bespoke detailing. Moreso, lace is utilized in a way to elevate and uplift the message of the similarities of both worlds: calling on the intricate embroideries of sheer traditional garments and evoking the luxuries of the western world; it is a bridge between the cultures I grew up in. In adapting traditional patterns, and taking traditional womenswear into menswear, I hope to say that even though I was not raised in the mainland nor had the same experiences or understanding of my culture, it does not make me any less Filipino nor any less American.