With all the craziness that is happening in the world today, many may find it hard to wake up in the morning and feel optimistic. But if you need a little boost, maybe wearing this t-shirt can turn your frown upside down.
Online local merchandise store Liwayway PH released t-shirts inspired by the nostalgic Good Morning towel (GMT). The multipurpose towel became a cultural symbol as it is used by Filipinos of all walks of life, from the humble jeepney drivers on the road to the rambunctious little kids during playtime.
"Our co-founder Aurore designed it," Liwayway PH tells Manila Bulletin Lifestyle. "She is French and has been living in the Philippines for 25 years. She knows that in the Philippine household we use it for cleaning, and she wanted to give a new perspective on how we can use it."
For many years, the GMT has been used by other Asian nations before it came to the Philippines. According to a report by The Strait Times, the towel was used by rickshaw pullers and laborers in Singapore during the 1920s. Now the multipurpose towel is present in hair salons, food establishments, even inside museums.
"The towel is so popular that it has also popped up in museum gift shops," The Strait Times reported. "Instead of the usual hand towel, the plusher souvenir version is a bath towel with the words 'Good Morning' embroidered in gold."
Remaining true to the towel's aesthetic, Liwayway PH's limited-edition Magandang Umaga shirt features the its cotton fabrication on the sleeves and bears the iconic "Good Morning" red label. It also has a "Magandang Umaga" embroidery at the back, just in case someone behind you needs a morning greeting.
Check out the Magandang Umaga shirt and other local artisanal products @liwaywayph.