The Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) is back with the second edition of Stitch-Off! Held on September 21, 2024 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) Forum Tent in Pasay City, this year’s student fashion design competition was part of the National Youth Science, Technology, and Innovation Festival (NYSTIF).
LOOK: DOST-PTRI Awards Student Fashion Designers at the 2024 Stitch-Off Urban Vibe
With the theme “Urban Vibe,” the Stitch-Off show spotlighted metro-inspired fashion that emphasized the creative use of Philippine textiles. Eighteen talented student designers from across the country showcased their innovative urban wear collections, competing for top honors.
The student groups were tasked to create ensembles for masculine, feminine, children’s, plus-size, and androgynous silhouettes, with each bringing different interpretations to the table using Philippine Tropical Fabrics (PTF) and local fabrics.
“Duyan” from Iloilo Science and Technology University rounded out the top three as 2nd Runner-Up and Youth Fave awardee. The collection utilized shades of blue and cream, with sleeves detailed by netting that blends “traditional craftsmanship and modern urban aesthetics.”
“Telakpak” from SOFA Design Institute claimed 1st Runner-Up, earning the position for its take on the dynamic atmosphere of Ylaya, Divisoria with a vibrant collection crafted with deadstock “Palakpak” textiles and scraps.
The grand prize went to “Kayo-d” from the Fashion Institute of the Philippines. The winning collection paid homage to the workforce of EDSA and the metro’s laborers in ensembles that fused workwear with upcycled teacher uniforms.
The competition’s esteemed panel of judges included Preview’s very own Editor-in-Chief Marj Ramos-Clemente, alongside WYC (Wear Your Culture) founder and creative director Alvin Degamo, BYS Fashion Week founder, creative director, and stylist John Lozano, fashion designers Thian Rodriguez and Nina Amoncio, stylist Ica Villanueva, Stilo Artefino Foundation Co-Founder and President Cedie Lopez-Vargas, public relations consultant Minnie Fransisco-Francia, and DOST-PTRI's Dr. Julius L. Leaño, Jr. The event also saw the participation of DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. and DOST Undersecretary Maridon O. Sahagun.
To elevate the celebration, GMA Sparkle artist Michael Sager, Jeremy G, and the A-Team set the stage for their live performances. Partnerships with GMA Pinoy TV, Preview, and Megaworld added further excitement to this year's Stitch-Off.
DOST-PTRI's Stitch-Off continues to highlight the importance of merging traditional craftsmanship with modern design and innovation, fostering appreciation for Philippine textiles among the youth.
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