Over the years, the ArteFino Fair has become more than just a platform for a truly Filipino retail experience. It has evolved into an incubator of local talent, a community of conscious retailers, and a cultural movement.

Thanks to its founders—Maritess Pineda, Mita Rufino, Susie Quiros, Cedie Lopez-Vargas, and Marimel Francisco—the fair has championed innovation, helped preserve local crafts, and created social impact through its grants and initiated partnerships.

“We celebrate individuals and groups who are paving new paths, preserving heritage, and pushing Filipino creativity forward,” the founders said in a statement. “We put the spotlight on stories that inspire action and ignite pride in being proudly Filipino.”

ArteFino Fair’s mission continues this year, bringing together fashion designers, brands, and grassroots communities for creative pairings that meet at the crossroads of craft.

HeArteFino—the fair’s non-stock, non-profit arm—has developed long-term programs that support selected communities around the country. This year, it collaborates with accessories designer Zarah Juan. Her collection, aptly dubbed “Full Circle,” explores the use of natural dyes, inspired by an immersion experience in Jakarta.

“I wanted to return to my roots,” Zarah said. “Nine years ago, I started my creative journey with ArteFino, and it felt so natural that I would return here with a new perspective.”

Visual artists Geraldine Javier and Marionne Contreras, together with fashion designer Steffi Cua, explore eco-printed local textiles and zero-waste design. The pieces in this collection serve as ruminations on the planet’s cyclical nature—from birth to decay, spring to fall, bloom to wither.

Central Saint Martins alum Camille Villanueva lends her signature dresses, jackets, and tops as a canvas for muralist Tara Soriano.

“I’ve always wanted a Filipino floral print that is easy to wear—almost like a neutral or classic—but nothing too commercial,” the designer says.

Time-honored traditions of patchwork, needlepoint, and embroidery find common ground in a limited-edition collection by Jor-El Espina titled “Heirloom.” Guided and inspired by the Grand Dame of Philippine Fashion, Patis Tesoro, the collection draws heavily from the techniques and creative wisdom she shared over several meetings. Through this fusion, Jor-El stitches past, present, and future into his distinctly Filipino contemporary garments.

Catch these creative collaborations and more at ArteFino Fair 2025, running from July 31 to Aug. 3, 2025, at The Fifth and R1 Lifestyle Hallway, Rockwell, Makati City.