Filipino designers took center stage at Harvard Square in a historic Philippine Fashion Show, part of the 3rd Filipino American Festival organized by the Harvard Square Philippine American Alliance.
Held on Oct. 6, this event marked the first time Filipino fashion has been showcased at the iconic venue, presenting a fusion of traditional and contemporary styles that celebrated Filipino heritage and craft.
Inspired by Filipino artifacts from Harvard’s Peabody Museum, the designers incorporated elements from these historical pieces into modern designs.
The artifacts, showcasing centuries-old weaving, embroidery, and craftsmanship techniques, provided a foundation for new interpretations that honored the cultural heritage while introducing innovative approaches to traditional attire.
Peabody Museum curator Dr. Ingrid Ahlgren welcomed the collaboration, highlighting the cultural significance of these artifacts and inviting the Filipino community to view them.
“These pieces provide historical context and foster a deeper appreciation for the heritage preserved in Filipino fashion,” Ahlgren noted.
Showcasing talent from the Philippines
The fashion show featured collections from five Filipino designers: Viña Romero, Kelvin Morales, Ched Studio, Randolf, and Ren Sison. Each designer brought a distinct style, combining their Filipino heritage with contemporary elements that captivated the audience.
Harvard Square Philippine American Alliance President Catherine Uy expressed her pride in the showcase. “This fashion show highlighted Filipino craftsmanship and the artistry rooted in our culture. We are thrilled to bring these traditions to an international audience,” Uy stated.
John Tee, Creative Director of the event, praised the designers for their compelling work. “Each designer showcased something unique, illustrating the depth and diversity of Filipino fashion. It was a perfect blend of history and forward-thinking creativity,” Tee said.
Beyond fashion, the festival also featured an adobo workshop led by Filipino chefs Rolando Abaquin and Guillermo Cespedes, introducing attendees to a popular Filipino dish and offering insight into the Philippines’ rich culinary heritage.
Chef Valerie Castillo-Archer, the first Filipino-American female executive chef at Yamashiro Hollywood, emphasized the cultural importance of Filipino cuisine, stating, “Food, like fashion, tells the story of who we are and where we come from.”
The festival attracted prominent figures, including Vice Consul Cathe Ryne Denice Aguilar and Columbia University Executive Chef John Santiago. The event also saw support from America’s Got Talent finalist Roland Abante and Lady Aileen Orsal, Harvard’s first Filipino language instructor.
As the Filipino American Festival concluded, the Philippine Fashion Show was praised for its contribution to elevating Filipino culture on an international platform. The success of this debut event has set the stage for future showcases, highlighting Filipino creativity and cultural pride.
