Due to the shared Austronesian ancestry of the Philippines and Indonesia, it is conspicuous why the fashion cultures of the two Asian countries are pretty interchangeable. Like the batik print fabrics, for example, are prominent among both Filipinos and Indonesians as cultural visuals.
The loose-fitting tops with vibrant colors are both evident in the traditional clothing styles too, like the “baro” for the Philippines, and “kebaya” for Indonesia.
Such culture and art confluence intertwined with elegance were celebrated during the “Two Nations, One Fashion” runway presentation, as organized by the Philippines’ National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia. The fashion display was in commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the bilateral relations of the Philippines and Indonesia.
Indonesian fashion designer Merdi Sihombing presented his runway collection. And for the Filipino counterpart, renowned couturier Renee Salud also raised the flag for the Philippines through his collection.
With the masterful use of both Indonesian fabrics in satin and prints, as well as Filipino materials like barong textile, Renee showcased both modern and traditional Filipino designs that both cultures can appreciate.
To the tune of the live vocal performance of the UST Chorus, the creations of the Filipino style visionary were showcased down the runway. Here are some of our favorite looks from the Renee Salud Indo-Phil 75th anniversary fashion presentation:
Floral prints, vibrant colors and tropical-like design details were apparent in some of Renee’s creations, as well as the traditional Filipiniana design features that were modernized.
Meanwhile, you may watch the runway presentation of Indonesian designer Merdi Sihombing here, which were also heavy in batik prints in contemporary wearable silhouettes.
The seamless fusion of fashion as seen in both designer collections was a testament of the deep bond of the Philippine and Indonesian cultures– rooted in almost the same history of European occupation, with the Spanish regime for the Philippines and the Dutch for Indonesia. They also exuded pre-colonial heritage. The friendship anniversary event was indeed an exhibit of sophistication meshed with culture, art and creativity representing the two Asian countries.
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