By Dara Clariza Evangelista
Held last November 7 at Whitespace MNL, BLANC 2025 marked a defining moment for SoFA Design Institute as it unveiled nineteen graduating designers whose collections felt deeply personal yet unmistakably future-facing. More than a graduation show, BLANC functioned as a living archive of emotion, technique, and intent, proving why SoFA continues to shape a new generation of Filipino design leaders.
E·QUI·LIB·RI·UM by Deni Garcia, BLANC by Sofa Design Institute | Photo: JCD Photography PH
Each designer presented six looks, turning the runway into a space where introspection met craftsmanship. From Design Studio 4, the two-year fashion students translated inner worlds into wearable narratives. Among them, Deni Garcia’s “E·QUI·LIB·RI·UM” stood out as a meditation on balance in a world shaped by trauma-driven cruelty. The result felt almost paradoxical: garments that looked comfortable enough for daily wear yet elevated enough to belong on a red carpet.
M.E. by Emir Loresto, BLANC by Sofa Design Institute | Photo: JCD Photography PH
Joesua Daoang’s “Under Tension” explored emotion through structure. The collection leaned into tailoring as both restraint and release, with tension living visibly in seams and construction. Dominated by deep blues and wave-like patterns, the looks echoed movement and pressure, as if fabric itself were holding its breath before letting go.
UNDER TENSION by Joesua Daoang, BLANC by Sofa Design Institute | Photo: JCD Photography PH
From Design Studio 8, the degree students pushed conceptual depth further. Emir Loresto’s “M.E.” was inspired by music as refuge and self-discovery. The collection captured that electric feeling in the first seconds of arriving at a truly good club, when sound hits before thought. Neon green cut through black foundations, translating rhythm and self-expression into garments that felt alive, urgent, and unapologetically personal.
(??? (yi er san, eng: 123) by Janelle Hung, BLANC by Sofa Design Institute | Photo: JCD Photography PH
BLANC 2025 also featured collections that explored neurodivergence, memory, nature, identity, love, and cultural roots, each designer contributing a distinct voice to a cohesive whole. Across both studios, the show affirmed that technical mastery and emotional honesty are not opposing forces but complementary ones.
Deep Cut by Summer Villaluz, BLANC by Sofa Design Institute | Photo: JCD Photography PH
The experience was supported by partners who elevated the show beyond the runway. Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance served as a backstage essential, while New Lounge emphasized wellness. L’Oréal Professionnel delivered statement hair, Dyson ensured comfort through innovative airflow, and Lomography Philippines captured every moment on and off the runway.
BLANC 2025 ultimately proved that SoFA’s graduates are not just ready for the industry. They are ready to challenge it, soften it, and reshape it, one story and one stitch at a time.
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KC Concepcion is on the cover of STYLISH Magazine right now. The actress, singer, jewelry designer, entrepreneur, and UN ambassador is back with a fresh perspective on how to take on the new phase of her business.
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