It's like having a number of dresses in one piece

When it comes to the fashion industry's goal of having more sustainable and eco-friendly practices and designs, many tend to look to the future. They look for innovative materials, explore new methods of garment-making, and discover ways to direct consumer consumption. But the thing is, many of the world's ancient cultures have various techniques of crafting garments that are ethical and produce unparalleled beauties.

"Indigenous design is rooted in sustainability," as Vogue says. Our ancestors made clothes "with a mutual respect for nature and the world that they live in." So, in order to champion sustainability in fashion, designers and entrepreneurs must not look at the future, but take a glimpse of our past dressing heritage.

That is what Jodinand Aguillon did with his latest creation for his concept Glorious Dias. Dubbed as the Mood Dress, the garment pays homage to the malong and patadyong traditions of the country.

"When people talk about 'circular fashion' or 'zero waste,' as though it's a new concept, I can't help but think about the legacy of our very own malong and patadyong," Jodinand posted. "Not only literally circular, utilitarian, unisexy, and zero waste design."

With roots dating back to the pre-colonial times of the Philippines, the patadyong and malong are greatly worn by indigenous Filipinos in Visayas and Mindanao, and some in Luzon for the patadyong. Made of different handwoven and naturally-dyed textiles, the traditional clothing pieces are called by different names by various ethnic groups. But basically, the two sport a tubular structure and are worn by wrapping around the body. They have a variety of functions from being a whole body garment and a hood to being a turban and an infant carrier, among other uses.

For his creation, Jodinand mirrors the chameleon aspect of the indigenous pieces. According to his post, he even fashioned the prototype of the Mood Dress with one of his favorite malong pieces. What can be defined as a multi-wear piece, the dress features a flounce bottom with delicate frills and strings, which are smart design elements that can turn it into a myriad of style, from a baby doll dress, a halter top to a maxi midi dress, a long sarong-like skirt and more.

"Much like the malong and patadyong, our Mood Dress can be worn in different ways depending on, well, your mood," he said. "This isn't exactly groundbreaking but true to Glorious Dias style, we've pulled inspo from the past and present to create something glorious we hope you'll love."

Staying true to its vintage and rework fashion mission, Glorious Dias is currently searching for perfect textiles and mixing them to turn into unique Mood Dresses. A bonus, the dresses will also come with pockets.

The Mood Dresses will be dropped in small batches. And upon checking the concept's Instagram page, it looks like it is going to happen this week. So, hit that follow button to stay updated!