What lies ahead for a Filipino fashion designer

Hannah Bisnar

Nov 14, 20202 min read

Updated: Nov 29, 2020

Do you ever ask your parents about their fashion style back then? It’s no surprise that before, women used to wear puffy dresses, skirts, baggy jeans, and so on. Lately, fashion has been a big hit, and a lot of women around the age of 15 are now taking interest in the field of fashion.

Bea Cruz, a 22-year old Filipina, has definitely made quite a mark in the fashion industry. Cruz’s work for the Fall Runway of Fashion Week San Diego was inspired by Philippine traditional clothing, such as the baro’t saya, panuelo, and barong. The tiresome work and the sleepless nights have paid off when she received the title “FWSD 2020 1st Place Top Designer” last October 17. This exhibited a seamless minimal and modern blend of the iconic 40s and 50s with the mix of today’s fashion.

“Being the youngest among veteran designers wasn’t easy for me. I took it as a motivation to produce a collection that challenged me not only as a designer but as an individual as well,” she said,

“I was granted such a huge opportunity and I wanted to use it to highlight the beauty of our own textile on the global stage. Since they consider me an international designer, I wanted to share where I came from and our culture.”

CREATIVITY. Michael Cinco, is known for making extravagant dresses. This year he was awarded as one of the top designers at the golden globes this year. © Villanueva

Due to the travel restrictions brought by the pandemic, Cruz made a tough decision and skipped her personal appearance in her international debut. Instead, she opted to mail these garments from her studio to Manila, then all the way to San Diego for the show. Like the role model she is, Cruz inspired and motivated everyone that even in the midst of this pandemic, we are able to fulfill our dreams. She then said “I know that there are hundreds-folds I have yet to learn. Though there were some hiccups, this experience definitely made me realize I’m capable of achieving things I never imagined doing this at a very young age. Most especially being in the middle of yet the toughest year.”

Cruz finished by saying “Here I am, just 22 with starting experience, but Fashion Week San Diego kept me motivated and inspired despite the situation we are in right now,” Cruz said, fashion design for two years already. When asked about what sets her apart from other emerging designers, Cruz said “I know throwing yourself into this industry, you should know your edge but I, myself, am still finding my common ground.”