Happy Andrada never fails to spotlight local heritage through her designs. She is one of the designers who paved the way for the re-emergence of Filipino wear, merging traditional clothing with modern styles. In the past, she has created collections that celebrated Filipino tapestries, paid homage to legendary tattoo artist Apo Whang-Od, and reimagined barongs, camisas, and more, balancing innovation with wearability. Her mission to champion Filipino culture through design continues today with the unveiling of her latest works.
At the Pinoy Playlist Music Festival 2024, held at the BGC Arts Center, Happy presented a collection highlighting the traditions and craftsmanship of the Philippines. This marked a historic moment as she became the first featured designer of the festival. During the event, music and fashion came together in a vibrant runway show. The Filipina designer collaborated with show director Raymund Ramirez Seranillo and Dyandi Jayson of the band Anima Tierra to turn the launch into a true fiesta.
“I always wanted to work with Anima Tierra. This show was the perfect time for that,” Happy told Manila Bulletin Lifestyle. “We worked closely on the timings and segments. They create their own music, and they wanted to see the weaves used for the collection so they could compose music inspired by the textures of the fabrics. Their music paired beautifully with the collection, elevating it to a whole new level.”
For this collection, Happy represented the Philippines’ three main island groups. From Luzon, she incorporated binakol from Abra, pinilian abel from Ilocos, jusi, piña callado, and cocoon from Quezon. Visayas was represented by Aklan’s piña silk and abaca, while Mindanao showcased Sulu’s inaul, Tausug’s pis siyabit, Maguindanao’s tassels, and Basilan’s seputangan and yakan weaves. To add her signature touch, Happy and her team embellished the pieces with embroidery and beadwork, reflecting iconic Filipino symbols and imagery.
“This collection celebrates Philippine culture and its artisans. It’s about pride in who we are, supporting each other, and promoting unity,” the designer shared. “The collection merges diverse weaves sourced from across the country, showcasing the incredible work of Filipino weavers and artisans.”
Opening the show was actress Glaiza de Castro, who wore a reimagined camisa and wrap skirt, paired with a woven hat adorned with a miniature bahay kubo. Following a series of romantic beige ensembles, the runway burst into color as vibrant handwoven textiles took center stage. Closing the show was host and former beauty queen Nicole Cordoves in a blue outfit inspired by the West Philippine Sea—a nod to the ongoing territorial and maritime disputes. This piece was first unveiled at the Fashion Art Biennale in Seoul last September.
“This collection also celebrates the beauty of the Philippines’ natural environment, with the Philippine Sea serving as the inspiration for two of the outfits,” Happy explained. “We should take pride in being Filipino and knowing what is ours.”
Beyond highlighting indigenous crafts, the collection also incorporated repurposed materials such as woven blankets, table runners, tablecloths, and placemats. This aligns with Happy’s commitment to raising awareness about environmental sustainability and how design can play a role in protecting the planet.
“Some pieces were made using upcycled materials like tablecloths and blankets, and one outfit was entirely upcycled,” the designer noted. “Remnants from the collection will be repurposed for other creations such as accessories, with some sent to recycling centers. I hope this collection inspires others to take small but meaningful steps to help preserve nature.”
To learn more about Happy’s latest collection, visit @happyandrada.ph on Instagram or her website at fartfashionart.com.
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