MANILA, Philippines - Dita Sandico Ong started out as a mother-to-be with a small sewing center in her mom’s garage and a big dream to be a designer. Little did she know on that day 26 years ago, she was nurturing one of the most admired oeuvres in Philippine fashion today. Known for her unique collections made out of natural, handmade textiles and innovative designs, she has made her mark as one of the most outstanding Filipino women.
As an advocate of environmental and cultural heritage, Dita has been continually working hand in hand with indigenous weaving communities across the Philippines, in Bulacan for piña-lino; Catanduanes for banana fiber/linen/rayon; Oriental Mindoro for hand-woven Mangyan cloth; Ilocos Sur for pinilian (a repeating pattern of stylized designs); and the T’boli weavers of Lake Seibu for tinalak fabric. Her clothes, characterized by their distinct Filipino flavor, help foster local livelihoods. Her trademark paru-paro wraps and lukot line have redefined and modernized Philippine fashion.
This year, she hopes to bring more of what the Philippines has to offer to the global market and at the same time calls for “people to participate actively (for the environment and the country), and to be sensitive to what we can do.” She will showcase her new line with a green theme, symbolizing planting seeds.
This month, Dita presents her collection at the Philippine Center on Fifth Avenue in New York City. The collection will be showcased in an elegant tea party setting with more shows planned in Denver, Salt Lake City and San Francisco.