Sinulid: The Filipino fashion revolution you need to know about

In the Philippines, where contemporary fashion is rooted in identity, a quiet revolution has been unfolding since 2016. Sinulid—the Filipino word for “thread”—marks a shift in the narrative of emerging fashion design. What began as an academic exercise at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde has grown into an event in the fashion ecosystem celebrating the future of Filipino fashion. 

It was founded by respected knitwear designer Lulu Tan Gan, a former chairperson of the Fashion Design and Merchandising Program, and fashion educator Christine Benet. Tan Gan, with her wealth of experience in textiles and sustainable practices, played a pivotal role in shaping the curriculum. Under her mentorship, students learned that fashion is not merely about clothing; it is about storytelling, cultural expression, and creating a lasting impact on the world. 

The 2025 edition of Sinulid, themed Threaded Experience, elevates discussions around surrealism, femininity, and fluidity—reflecting the ever-evolving nature of beauty and identity. With 34 graduating designers participating, this year’s collections challenge societal norms through experimental designs that embrace non-traditional, non-binary silhouettes, boldly rejecting gender stereotypes and showcasing over 100 pieces through a runway show, ranging from ready-to-wear items to avant-garde creations. 

The runway show is typically the highlight of a fashion degree where students display their creativity, technical skills, and design vision. Each student creates a collection of garments that reflect their style, influences, and the skills they’ve honed during their studies. For many students, it’s a stepping stone into a professional career in fashion.

One student shares: “I see fashion as more than just clothes; it’s a powerful communication tool. Emotions, experiences, and identities are captured in each stitch and silhouette. My inspiration comes from my mother’s journey and the profound stories woven throughout her life. Through fashion, I convey these stories that bind us all together.” 

Another credits his grandmother for nurturing his artistic spirit from a young age. “From bridal to couture, fashion has always been my form of self-expression. With a refined vision for storytelling, I aim to push creative boundaries by celebrating the intersection of nature, art, and fashion.”

An exhibition opens at the 12F gallery of Benilde’s Design + Art Campus on Feb. 5 and runs until May 24. On exhibit are selected 34 designs from over 100 looks. This is a curated display of the best student work. It includes their sketches and mood boards to demonstrate their skills, creativity, and knowledge in fashion design, textile studies, and other aspects of the fashion industry. Consultants were brought in to shape the exhibition—stylist Michael Salientes, exhibition designer Gabby Lichauco, lighting designer Jay Aranda, and editor-writer Ria de Borja. 

Sinulid is a reminder that contemporary fashion is more than just the clothes we wear—it is about stories told and identities shaped. It captures the spirit, attitudes, and values of today.

Erin Nicolas: ‘Reyna’

Nicolas’ collection reimagines the iconic Manila Carnival Queen, blending the grandeur of royalty with the beauty of the ordinary. By utilizing unconventional materials and transforming them into extraordinary creations, the collection establishes a new vision of Filipina royalty, one that embodies spectacle, glamour, and a reimagined sense of elegance with a touch of Baroque influence.

Tisha Chavez: ‘Handuraw’

Chavez’s collections, born from the concept of Handuraw (the power to imagine or reminisce), seamlessly blend oil paintings of the legendary Mount Mayon with the intricate art of Pabalat papercutting from Bulacan. Inspired by Daragang Magayon, these works capture the essence of elegance, romance, and cultural significance, evoking a nostalgic longing for folklore and traditions passed down through generations.

Alessandra Caamic: ‘Balud’

Inspired by the Visayan word “Balud“ (wave), this collection is a powerful metaphor for gender fluidity. It beautifully expresses the dynamic nature of preferences, which, much like the ever-changing motion of the waves, can shift and evolve over time. Caamic also gracefully weaves in her Cebuana heritage, creating a collection that is both personal and profoundly meaningful.

Rain Olais: ‘Thoroughfare’

Olais’ collection delves into the intricate beauty of the human body, transforming it into a canvas of fashion. Inspired by the muscular, circulatory, and respiratory systems, each piece celebrates the wondrous intricacies and unique forms that define our physicality.

Hannah Barrera: ‘Love, H’

Barrera’s collection is a love letter to herself. Inspired by the symbolism of flowers—gifts of love, apologies, and expressions of affection—each piece is a message to her 21-year-old self. A reminder of her worth, this collection celebrates self-love and the journey of self-discovery.

Maxine Dela Cruz: ‘Paralysis by Perfectionism’

Delving into the paralyzing grip of perfectionism, Dela Cruz’s collection highlights the dangers of obsessing over flawlessness. By showcasing the beauty of imperfection, this collection encourage viewers to let go of the pursuit of perfection and embrace the imperfections inherent in the creative process.

Alexandra Zarate: ‘Fomolution’

Zarate’s collection is a poignant exploration of the human experience, tracing the journey of evolution. It delves into feelings of isolation, solitude, and anxiety, while also highlighting the importance of coping mechanisms, self-reflection, and ultimately, embracing struggle as a catalyst for growth and acceptance. This collection encourages viewers to overcome the fear of missing out (FOMO) and embrace their own unique paths.

Janelle Chan: ‘The Fall of Icarus’

Inspired by the tragic tale of Icarus, Chan’s collection explores the delicate balance between ambition and the potential for self-destruction. It celebrates the beauty and power of dreams while simultaneously acknowledging the importance of humility and the inevitable consequences of overreaching. This collection serves as a poignant reminder that while we should strive for greatness, we must also learn to set realistic goals and accept the lessons of failure.

Micah Lao: ‘Pas De Deux’

Lao’s collection challenges traditional notions of ballet, blending the grace and strength of this timeless art form with a powerful message of self-expression. These garments are more than just clothing; they are canvases for personal expression, empowering individuals to embrace their gender identity and uniqueness with pride and defy societal constraints.

Serena San Jose: ‘Kasakdalan ng Dahas at Laman’

San Jose’s collection celebrates the divinity and grace of the trans experience, reimagining body horror as a powerful tool for self-expression. Through the use of flesh-like textiles and constricting silhouettes, the collection explores the transformative power of bodily autonomy and challenges societal perceptions of transsexuality.

Abby Acantilado: ‘Iridescent Tears’

Acantilado’s collection is a celebration of diversity and a powerful ode to the beauty of imperfection. Inspired by the natural elegance of pearls, with their unique flaws and imperfections, the collection is designed to empower every woman, reminding her that true beauty lies in her individuality and authenticity.

Elijah Mananghaya: ‘Imahinasyon Sa Banyera’

Mananghaya’s collection draws inspiration from the boundless imagination of childhood, transforming everyday towels into whimsical creations like wigs, dresses, and mermaid tails. This playful exploration mirrors the stages of sexual awakening, from the initial confusion and exploration to the journey of self-discovery and acceptance. The collection poignantly highlights the challenges and obstacles queer individuals face in suppressing their true gender identity.

Brianna Balaoro: ‘Lineae’

Balaoro’s collection emphasizes relatability through minimalist design. By employing clean lines and carefully selected colors, the collection transforms basic elements into pieces that exude understated sophistication and effortless style, achieving a subtle yet impactful aesthetic.

Jolo Estavillo: ‘Taklob’

Estavillo’s collection draws inspiration from the humble yet vital role of bamboo scaffolding in construction. Celebrating the resilience and dedication of construction workers, the collection highlights the support and safety that these structures provide, transforming a utilitarian element into a powerful symbol of strength and resilience.

Deil Valle: ‘Lakbay’

Valle’s collection explores the poignant journey of grief, translating the emotional rollercoaster into a captivating fashion narrative. Utilizing artisanal techniques, the collection symbolizes the faces of grief, offering a unique and deeply personal perspective on the healing process.

Dom Aquio: ‘Berde Nga Dugo’

Aquio’s collection addresses the deeply rooted prejudice and discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly trans women. The term “green-blooded,” a derogatory slur used against homosexuals, symbolizes the marginalization and dehumanization experienced by this community. This collection aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by trans individuals, particularly the trauma and discrimination they encounter when attempting to access basic necessities like public restrooms.

Ingrid Del Rosario: ‘Kuha Kultura’

Del Rosario’s collection boldly confronts the “crab mentality,” a deeply ingrained Filipino social phenomenon where individuals actively try to pull others down to prevent their success. Through intricate designs, the collection delves into the toxicity of competition, jealousy, and selfishness mirroring the complexities of human relationships and the challenges posed by negative attitudes.

Samantha Cabrera: ‘Pieces of a Girl’

A visual exploration of teenage girlhood: Cabrera’s work captures the highs and lows, the chaos and the mesmerizing beauty of self-discovery as young women navigate the messy terrain of adolescence. 

Ira Co: ‘Gemini’

Inspired by the mythological twins Castor and Pollux, Co’s collection presents two distinct lines of weaves, each with its own unique personality. Like the constellation Gemini, these opposing forces are intertwined yet forever separate, embarking on their own individual journeys.

Andrea Feliciano: ‘Runaway Princess’

Refuting the notion of a “picture perfect” ideal, Feliciano’s collection celebrates the beauty of individuality. This collection embraces the unexpected, where sweet and soft silhouettes mingle with more rigid leather and metal hardware looks, proving that true beauty lies in embracing differences.

Genevieve Gutierrez: ‘The Matriarchal Party’

Gutierrez’s collection celebrates the evolution of power dressing, drawing inspiration from the 1980s when women began to utilize fashion as a tool for empowerment and equality. By referencing the tradition of Victorian tea parties, the collection explores how feminism has penetrated the mainstream, transforming the landscape for women in the workplace and beyond.

Clarisse Sanchez: ‘Decidido’

Sanchez’s collection celebrates the beauty of dual heritage, seamlessly blending traditional Filipino clothing with contemporary Danish influences. This harmonious fusion pays tribute to the artist’s roots while embracing a modern aesthetic, creating a collection that is both culturally significant and undeniably stylish.

Paulette Navera: ‘Dharma’

Inspired by the tragic fate of a crow struggling for survival, Navera’s collection delves into the profound truths of the human condition. It explores the raw, unrelenting pain of existence, grappling with themes of suffering, desire, and the cruel yet achingly beautiful nature of the world.

Roselle Sy: ‘Serendipity’

Sy’s collection celebrates the resilience of the human spirit, drawing inspiration from the tenacity of wildflowers that thrive despite challenging conditions. Dainty yet sturdy, the collection embodies a spirit of untamed beauty and a refusal to be subdued.

Pearle Abella: ‘Resonance’

Inspired by the joyful memories of her childhood, where she spent hours playing with dolls and creating miniature garments from handkerchiefs, Abella’s collection explores the creative constraints of limited surfaces. This collection celebrates the magic of making, showcasing the playful experimentation with shapes, textures, and materials that define the art of clothing design.

Kim Chua: ‘Threads of Fate’

Chua’s collection delves into the mystical world of taromancy, drawing inspiration from the belief that tarot cards offer a glimpse into our souls and hold the key to our inner wisdom. This collection invites viewers to explore the stories within themselves and embrace the profound messages that lie hidden within.

Ivee De Los Santos: ‘Crazy in Love’

De Los Santos’ collection brings a playful and whimsical touch to bridal fashion, reimagining traditional elements with unconventional silhouettes and a touch of childlike wonder. Inspired by a lifelong love for cartoons, dress-up games, and dolls, this collection invites brides to embrace their inner child and celebrate the joy of saying “I do.”

Kyle Gomelet: ‘Sands and Dusk’

Gomelet’s collection explores the fascinating world of synesthesia, where senses intertwine and everyday experiences are transformed into a symphony of sensations. Inspired by synthetic encounters with natural landscapes, the collection delves into the complexities of human perception, inviting viewers to experience the beauty and wonder of sensory experiences.

Lance Rubio: ‘Para Kay Nanay...’

Rubio’s collection is a poignant tribute to his mother, where each look represents a chapter in her life. Featuring delicate materials that mirror her own fragility, the collection is a moving testament to her strength and resilience.

Krissie Teruel: ‘Joie De Vivre’

Teruel’s collection is a vibrant celebration of her hometown, Iloilo City. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant colors and joyful spirit of her roots, this collection aims to evoke a sense of pride and positivity, reflecting the designer’s deep connection to her heritage.

Ann Hernandez: ‘Defy The Stars’

Hernandez’s collection pushes the boundaries of cosplay, merging the world of fashion with the captivating universe of Outerspace Filipino Workers by Mr. Keith Sicat. This collection reimagines iconic characters, drawing inspiration from their distinctive backgrounds, designs, and environments while infusing them with a unique fashion sensibility.

Yazmine Calata: ‘Divine Feminine’

Calata’s collection is a nostalgic journey through girlhood, capturing the essence of innocence and wonder with a vibrant energy and romantic aesthetic. Inspired by iconic figures like Audrey Hepburn and Marie Antoinette, each piece is a portal to the past, celebrating the unique spirit of femininity.

Gemma Santos: ‘Tabi-Tabi Po’

Santos’ collection brings to life lesser-known mythical creatures from Filipino folklore, including the Talagbusao, Ani-ani, and Tahamaling. By reimagining these entities beyond their often-villainous portrayals, the collection aims to preserve their cultural significance and introduce them to a new generation.

Ysavel Soriano: ‘Interlude’

Soriano’s collection is a celebration of diversity and individuality in menswear. It embraces flexibility and self-expression, encouraging men to explore their unique styles without limitation through a bold, honest fusion of fashion and art, the collection explores themes of ambivalence, attraction, mystery, and romance, all presented with an unapologetic disregard for censorship.

* * * 

For updates, visit https://www.facebook.com/Sinulid.Benilde.