A prelude to the fashion designer’s 20th anniversary celebration in 2025 Last week, on our way to Jor-el Espina’s private fashion show, associate fashion editor John Legaspi and I discussed how this Ilonggo fashion designer has made his mark in Philippine fashion. My very first memory of Espina was his Bomberong jackets in 2017 at the Arte Fino Fair. These bomber jacket-barong tagalog hybrids left a lasting impression on me, as they did on many other shoppers.
“It was so inspiring to know that people were responding to what I was doing,” Espina shares, revealing that he had been producing these back in Iloilo since 2013. A few years later, he introduced another signature style that has become a staple in many closets. Espina presented a fun and playful way to wear the saya and tapis by incorporating layers of light, local weaves.
Embroidered details and three-dimensional floral appliqués added texture and depth, proving that creativity has no limits. Jor-el began designing in 2004, marking his 20th year in the fashion industry in 2025. "Next year, when I celebrate 20 years, it will also coincide with the 100th anniversary of the Art Deco movement.
The ready-to-wear (RTW) pieces I’m showcasing will be available at the upcoming ArteFino Festival 2024, but the Art Deco theme will continue to inspire the runway pieces I'm preparing for May next year. Many of the garments reflect my evolution and the various adaptations I’ve integrated into my work over the years,” says Espina. Kicking off a year-long celebration was the recent “Adaptation” fashion show held on August 1, 2024, during lunch at Casa Buenas in Hotel Okura.
“This is just a prelude to the pocket shows I’ll be presenting throughout the year leading up to my 20th anniversary,” he tells Manila Bulletin Lifestyle. “For me, 'Adaptation' represents the application and interpretation of different eras in my career.” As expected, Espina captivated his guests with his signature drapes, selection of local fabrics, exquisite embroidery and beadwork, and mastery of layering.
Models walked out in loose-fitting silhouettes inspired by the 1920s, featuring muted autumn hues like olive green, mustard yellow, warm taupe, and muted plum. Art Deco details that stood out included luxurious lamé fabric, flirty fringe, and intricate beadwork. Espina proudly pointed out, “Instead of mother-of-pearl, I used shells.
” He also noted, “I apply different techniques and textures. Most of the fabrics I use are piña from my hometown.” Each of the nine looks can be broken down into separates, giving each piece added value and versatility.
“I want to create something that is still ‘me.’ When I started out creating evening gowns, particularly in the province, being a designer often meant making evening wear,” Espina reminisces. “I aim to maintain an evening aesthetic while offering separate and versatile pieces.
Each look has at least three layers—skirts, taffetas, tops, and cover-ups that are different.” Espina begins by creating separates before finalizing a complete look. “These are pieces that will move from the racks on their own or as part of a complete ensemble.
” This approach allows Espina’s clientele to have fun mixing and matching RTW pieces. “It’s about offering something unique and immediately available, reflecting a more accessible retail direction while retaining the pride of a designer label. Even though the pieces are off-the-rack, they remain one of a kind, blending exclusivity with practicality.
” Check out Jo-rel Espina's "Adaptation" collection below: All these pieces, and more, will be available at ArteFino from August 22 to 25 at The Fifth, Power Plant Mall in Rockwell. Hello, readers! Do you have a story you want us to feature? Send us a message on Facebook , Instagram , Tiktok , and X and let’s talk about it..
