Indonesia and the Philippines Weave a Fashion-Forward Friendship

A country’s history is like a vibrant tapestry, each thread a story of its past. Over time, new trends and norms emerge, representing choices made, friendships forged, and cultures shared — all weaving a rich and interconnected narrative.
The 75th anniversary of the Diplomatic Relations between Indonesia and the Philippines adds another thread to their shared tapestry, celebrating not only each nation's fashions, but also an enduring friendship that is worth celebrating.
Last Nov. 22, 2024, The Beat Manila had the privilege of witnessing a fusion of culture, talent, and artistry from renowned designers and talented performers at the Whitespace Manila in Makati City. Read on to find out what happened during the event.
The night began with a brief but highly informative history of the ties between Indonesia and the Philippines. Their proximity and shared values, along with their shared colonial histories, have nurtured a deep connection between the two countries, making them kindred spirits in Southeast Asia. Their bond has been persevered over decades and continues to be strengthened by political cooperation, cultural exchange, and mutual respect. By the end of the presentation, it's become clear to the audience how important people-to-people connection is.
Two Nations, One Fashion
The highlight of the evening was the mesmerizing fashion show that showcased the beauty and diversity of traditional and modern designs from both countries. Indonesian wastra — traditional fabrics like Batik from Java, Tenun from Bali and Nusa Tenggura, Ulos from North Sumatra, and Songket from South Sumatra — was paired with Filipino craftsmanship, including intricate embroidery from Lumban, abaca footwear from Liliw, and silver jewelry from Bulacan.
Merdi Sihombing: Honoring Heritage with Novelty
Indonesian Textile and Fashion Designer Merdi Sihombing presented his collection, Mangokkal Holi, or “The Flying Cloth.” The collection was inspired by the Batak Toba tribe tradition of families exhuming and moving their ancestors’ bones to a shared family tomb as a way of saying grace and preserving familial bonds.
He reinterpreted the Indonesian wastra Ulos in his own vision, marrying traditional fabrics with contemporary silhouettes. His designs paid homage to his Batak roots while offering a modern twist, reflecting his dedication to promoting and evolving his cultural heritage.
The designer commented on the similarities between Indonesian wastra and Filipino traditional fabrics like the T’nalak, and found a common ground to create designs that allured audiences from both Indonesia and the Philippines.
"It's a good idea," Merdi told The Beat Asia, talking about the fashion show that highlighted both Indonesian and Philippine fabrics. "Hopefully, maybe we can make events like this in [Indonesia]."
Renee Salud: Connecting Cultures with Creativity
Filipino Fashion Designer Renee Salud debuted a collection that celebrated both Filipino and Indonesian artistry. From intricate haute couture to contemporary filipinianas and barongs, his designs incorporated Indonesian wastra, creating outfits that were both sophisticated and culturally intriguing.
Renee highlighted how traditional fabrics can change seamlessly into everyday clothing, expressing his advocacy of embracing indigenous materials in modern fashion. "I wanted to bring the batik materials that I fashioned and styled outside of the box...we're used to seeing it as a sari...but I wanted to make something different," he said.
Also, he stated that he hoped his designs would increase the audience’s familiarity with traditional fabrics and show that they can be worn more than on special occasions.
His innovative and “out of the box” use of the Indonesian wastra demonstrated how combining cultural elements can lead to fashionable, wearable art.
Cultural Bonds Through Fashion
Both designers are advocates of indigenous fabrics, and their designs were meaningful tributes to the deep ties between Indonesia and the Philippines. By inviting these two designers and merging culture with the latest fashions, Merdi Sihombing and Renee Salud showed how fashion and culture goes beyond borders and serves as a celebration of a rich history shared by two nations.
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