Blurring the lines between femininity and masculinity, MARAHUYO, meaning “to be enchanted” in Filipino, is a design collection that mixes European suits with distinct Filipino characteristics of traditional clothing by promoting ethical fashion and using native fabrics found in the Philippines through the partner communities involved coming from from Kalibo, Aklan and Miagao, Ilo-ilo with their rich culture of woven Piña and Hablon fabrics respectively. The concept of MARAHUYO focuses on the surroundings of the Diwatas of the mountains (Mount Makiling), the nature, wherein men before trespassed and stole from her, thus, are now one with nature and camouflaged as either flora or fauna in her paradise. The color palette of this collection piques the attention of the people and entice them with its vibrant colors to check out the five looks of the designer as she delves into the theme wherein Philippine folklore meets modernity.
Techniques: Laser Cutting (Ylang-Ylang flower), Ombre Dyeing (of jute cords), 3D Embroidery (Ylang-Ylang flower), Handmade Appliques – Coco buttons & Sampaguita flowers (were soldered and handsewn layer by layer individually)
Materials: Hablon fabrics (From Miagao, Iloilo), Piña Shifu fabrics (from Kalibo, Aklan), coat lining fabrics, noramal canvas fabris, jute canvas fabric, jute cords, coco buttons, Taiwanese Jusi & organza fabrics (for handmade Sampaguita appliques) For the accessories: gemstones & gold plated wires
Designer: Kristina Marie Mariano (kristinamarie.creations@gmail.com / kmdgmariano20@gmail.com)
Model: Jacob Orbe, Jerome Dacu, Third Vineles
Hair/ Makeup: Janella Erika Santos
Photographer: Alfred Alavar (assisted by Jamila San)
Editor: Kristina Marie “Kim” Mariano & Alfred Alavar
Styling Assistant: Cristi Mariano, Christine Mariano, Angelyka Silvestre