Ronaldo Arnaldo: Going naturally local

The first images that come to mind when you hear the words local and organic fabrics are frumpy Filipiniana outfits and expensive, earthy, slouchy items. Aiming to break these preconceived notions on local and organic fashion, Ronaldo Arnaldo’s holiday collection for 2010 is a modern and ground-breaking exploration of the potential of our local fabrics and talent. He opens the show with a sculptural dress with origami-like folds and layered sleeves, done in piña and linen. Thoroughly modern, chic and infinitely interesting, the items that followed, all done in organic natural fabrics (piña, abaca, Philippine dupione, abaca silk blends mixed with 100-percent pure fabrics such as linen, cotton, silks and chiffons) in shades of gray, cream, black and a shock of neon orange, felt futuristic and inspiring. You feel compelled to lean forward and take a closer look at the fabrics he uses, and also the different treatments he has done to make them current. His impeccable tailoring and imaginative silhouettes look sleek and intricate at the same time. Local fabrics that before had always been treated with embroidery, sequins and beadwork are now left naked and it is in this well-thought-out editing that the real beauty of these natural fabrics is showcased. The texture and weave are highlighted and their quiet elegance is all the more appreciated. His dainty layered sleeves pay tribute to the butterfly sleeves of traditional Filipiniana dresses, while his modern shapes and silhouettes challenge our ideas of what can be done with our beloved fabrics. Ronaldo’s latest collection stimulates not only your eyes, but also your mind, challenging all of us to see beyond what is, and venture out to what can be.

Inspiring, ground-breaking, environment-friendly and hopefully, a way to help local resources go global, Ronaldo Arnaldo’s latest collection is interesting, relevant and truly inspiring.