Words and styling Karen Bolilia, Illustrations by Paulina Ortega (paulinapaige.com)
MANILA, Philippines - With news of more incoming fast-fashion franchises setting up shop and malls looking not just way west, but stretching to other parts of the world, it’s comforting to know that several brands are still holding down the local fort. It could be their strong design DNA, it could be the thorough craftsmanship that goes into every piece, probably even both—but what’s certain is that they have all begun and flourished by keeping their references consistent, and by sticking to what they know. Whether that’s the peculiar wit and the instinct for patterns by Bleach Catastrophe, the lovely, lovely bones of OS Accessories that have landed in international titles and on the backs of celebrities, the patriotism-made-cool of Team Manila, the tailored and artisanal sensibilities of The Daily Clothing, or Proudrace’s firm grip on the life and style of the ‘90s, which has encouraged many a patron’s cult-like behavior— Young Star recognizes the labels that uplift and stimulate the spirit of what’s homegrown.
Supremo shirt P695. Available at www.teammanilalifestyle.com and Team Manila branches nationwide.
Leather harness, P6,250, and cuff, P2,930. Available at www.os-accessories.com
Chambray shirt P2,850, khaki chinos P3,850, and striped oxford P2,850, available at www.thedailyshirtingcompany.com or at Retail Lab, Level 2, Power Plant Mall.