What defines global streetwear is more than just aesthetics and style: it’s about wearing clothing that represents how you move through your life. From the West Coast to Southeast Asia, each city has a distinct style of streetwear that reflects the city’s lifestyle. With tropical weather in Manila, individuals don’t have the luxury to layer their clothing and usually compensate by having bright and creative designs. Streetwear is creating it’s own signature mark  in Manila, and we spoke with the leading fashion brands making their waves in the local and international scenes to learn what makes the  Philippines’ style so distinct.

“Philippines is among the more western countries of Asia from European (Spanish influences) to Americans. I love how we have our own take on the global trends, and how we reinterpret pop ar and folk art into contemporary and hip-looking stuff like tees that can be as expressive and colorful and witty. It’s like how the jeepney came about – from scraps we can make something super innovative and creative.” – Tracy Dizon, Designer of TIARA

Streetwear is evidenced in more than just the jeepneys and local scene, retail stores catering to the lifestyle and culture of the era are appearing across the capital. Most recently, Commonwealth recently debuted late 2015 in Taguig, SM Aura Premier, fulfilling the demand for new and established street, fashion and sportswear brands that influence and inspire. But what brands are popular in Manila? “It’s all about finding the brands that will help express the opinions of the local scene. From the hip-hop lover to the basketball enthusiast, each lifestyle reflects streetwear, and that’s what we aim to do at Commonwealth.” Omar Conception, Founder and Director of Commonwealth, a specialty boutique womens clothes shop based in the US, that has worked closely with musicians Diplo, Q-Tip and DJ Neil Armstrong to help advance and promote the different aspects of streetwear that embolden its movement.  

Philippines Fashion Week this year was inspired by the local streetwear, along with a mix of high fashion. Emerging designer Kaye Morales debuted her ‘Rebel’ collection, consisting of clothing that was influenced by streetwear, while taking it a notch higher with creations that included denim, neoprene, and tulle, combining sporty and rocker chic. She notes that fashion and streetwear is more than just a style, “it’s a reflection of yourself and a statement that you need to make daily. Like any honest story, it’s going to be beautiful.”

Jeffrey Rogador, ​known as the “King of Streetwear” in Philippines, highlights that as a designer, it’s important for him to incorporate the culture of the Philippines, saying that “Understanding your roots is what makes your perspective different. I work to promote patriotism and the Philippines by using details or elements about our country and making them current or relevant.”