Fashion never goes out of style… It simply reinvents itself. It’s both an armor and an art form, a way to express identity, confidence, and creativity. That spirit was on full display at the inaugural Manila Fashion Week, which took place from Oct. 16 to 19 at SM Aura Premier, where eight designers took over the runway across four days of dynamic showcases. Each collection celebrated Filipino ingenuity through innovative design, meticulous craftsmanship, and a deep sense of cultural pride.

From sleek modern tailoring to avant-garde experimentation, Manila Fashion Week marked a new chapter in the country’s fashion landscape. The Beat Manila got to witness this extraordinary showcase and let us break down some of the standout ensembles and moments that defined its debut season.

Andrea Tetangco Redefines Filipina Grace and Beauty

Andrea Tetangco opened the week with an elegant and romantic collection that redefined feminine strength through structure, texture, and timeless silhouettes.

Designed for “the woman who moves with purpose and presence,” Andrea’s Cruise Collection was a celebration of fluidity, strength, and sophistication. Each piece was thoughtfully crafted to move with the wearer, effortlessly commanding attention with eye-catching designs that turn heads at every step.

As models walked down the Fashion Tent runway in hues of cream, blue, maroon, and blush, we were captivated by how seamlessly the designer blended craftsmanship with emotion. The result was a collection that evoked quiet confidence and timeless elegance, all while staying rooted in classic Filipina grace.

“Women have always been at the heart of my creative process,” the designer said in an official statement. “Every piece I design is a love letter to them. A way of inspiring confidence, grace, and strength through clothing.”

The Cruise Collection also played with a range of textures and prints, from flowing, shimmering fabrics to pleated and ruffled skirts that added movement and dimension. Polka dots, a trending print this year, made their appearance throughout the show, lending a playful yet refined charm. From cascading gowns to asymmetrical dresses, Andrea’s latest creations embodied a kind of bold grace that was impossible to look away from.

The designer also quoted that she hopes the audience feels inspired after seeing the collection and is reminded of the power of softness and how femininity can be both delicate and strong. This poetic juxtaposition gave way to a dreamlike collection which accentuates the woman figure and transforms them into walking art.

“For this collection, I wanted to explore the idea of purity and femininity reimagined. Something dreamy and futuristic, yet timeless and grounded in reality. It felt right to debut this collection for the inaugural season of MNL Fashion Week. A moment that celebrates both new beginnings and the evolution of Filipino fashion.”

Viktor Crafts a Stylish Apocalypse

The excitement of Day 1 continued well into the night as the well-known denim brand Viktor took center stage for a masterclass on turning dystopian narratives into wearable art.

At Samsung Hall, Ino Calusa, the designer behind the brand, presented a bold and atmospheric presentation that combined tailoring with street-inspired grit. The stage had a moody and cinematic setting, which was influenced by the collection’s main inspiration.

“‘Dystopian Blues’ is about this imaginary world wherein it’s apocalyptic already, and people are coming out of the bunker,” Ino Calusa told The Beat Manila. “People are going out, but they will still look fashionable. We got the idea for the collection upon watching the movie ‘Blade Runner 2049.'”

The result? A striking vision where rebellion, structure, and sophistication collide. “Dystopian Blues” played on denim, leather, vegan leather, and wool with its pieces — fabrics that were transformed into structured jackets, blazers, and trousers. Throughout the show, it was clear that Viktor was showing the range of his brand and what he can offer to the growing fashion market.

Some of the standout pieces included the red leather jacket, which the designer mentioned was his favorite piece from the collection; the black leather jacket paired with a black corset and dark blue, billowing, textured skirt; and the deconstructed Kimono-inspired ensemble that fuses raw edge detailing with oversized, utilitarian elegance. We also noted the lovely flowers that were spotted across the lineup, which added a touch of charm to each piece.

“The concept was born out of the idea of Will Mueco,” explained Viktor. “Because we were imagining that there would be no flowers in the future, so we will be building from the scraps of our clothes into flowers.”

“Dystopian Blues” wasn’t just a collection, but a social commentary, one that interprets uncertainty and rawness into something bold and refined.

“Whatever happens, people will still want to dress up and feel good about themselves. Even if it’s bleak already. That’s why it’s called ‘Dystopian Blues.’ It’s my musing about the future that people would still want to look good and feel good about themselves. It’s a social commentary on what’s happening now.”

OXGN Fuses Functional Utility with Street-Luxe Cool

Opening Day 2 of MNL Fashion Week 2025, streetwear brand OXGN made a statement that was both a reintroduction and a reminder of who they are — a name that continues to embody the heart of Filipino youth and individuality.

Focusing on the now of streetwear, OXGN went against the grain by redefining what that culture means today — on their own terms. Amid the rise of new streetwear labels, OXGN remains firm, with its newest collection declaring, “We’re still here.” Full of heart, and most certainly, full of soul.

Rather than competing, MNL Fashion Week became OXGN’s amplifier — a stage to celebrate the communities that give streetwear its pulse. It was an homage to those who live and breathe the movement every day.

“We want people to feel that no matter how different we are, no matter how our experiences differ, we all share something basic and that is our need to breathe, our need for oxygen,“ the brand shared. “And we hope that people realize that at the end of the day, we all share something together, and we should value that.”

Set against a dystopian, grunge-inspired space at the Samsung Hall, OXGN’s newest collection explored the essence of its name, “oxygen.” The result was a runway charged with functional utility and elevated streetwear — effortless layering, structured silhouettes, and bold textures that embodied the power of self-expression.

Standout looks included a pinstriped denim jacket with matching straight jeans; a sleeveless brown gingham zip-up top layered over a red bra and sparkly dark denim; a cropped red leather bomber with distressed baggy jeans; and a dark brown leather jacket stacked over a worker coat and maroon leather separates, finished with acid-wash cargos and maroon boots. The show closed with a structured and striking A-line ballgown crafted from sports jerseys and floral embellishments — a statement piece that stitched OXGN’s nostalgia, modern identity, and rebellion together.

Throughout the show, one thing was clear: OXGN never left. They were simply finding their way back to their core.

Chris Nick Births Structured Sensuality for the Modern Femme

The evening continued at the Fashion Tent with a study on the structure and sensuality by designer Chris Nick, who revisited his signature design code through impeccable tailoring, statement fabrics, and sleek monochromes.

For his Spring/Summer 2026 collection, the designer drew fragments of his life — travels, the nights that lingered, and the energy of memory and seduction. Each look unfolded as a reflection of who Chris Nick is in Manila’s fashion landscape: polished, self-assured, and undeniably sensual.

Known for his mastery of black and white, Chris Nick expanded his palette with creamy neutrals, earthy browns, and shades of ivory — a nod to skin, intimacy, and sex.

“This collection specifically is sex club-centric,” he shared in an official statement. “If you think about it, the different shades of brown represent different skin tones, and the ivory shades represent — you know.”

Still, beneath the allure lies a level of precision that is unmistakably Chris Nick.

“The tuxedo will always be a part of my work,” he explained. “This season, we have different variations of it mixed into contrasting aspects. I think it’s the perfect way to introduce myself during the inaugural season as it's polished, put together, elegant yet raunchy and sensual in the most Chris Nick way."

Closing the night, his ”angels” — Rhian Ramos, Kyline Alcantara, Chie Filomeno, LA Aguinaldo, Max Collins, and Celeste Cortesi — embodied his vision through standout looks: a cream chest-baring bodycon dress with flowing sleeves; a black structured and flowing two-piece set with fluid tailoring; an all-black long coat detailed with shirring on one side; a sheer, sparkly black sleeveless dress; and an ivory-cream bodycon dress with a train that caught every light with movement.

After the show, Chris Nick hoped that the audience shared his sentiments — that sex sells. “It has never left the fashion world, in my opinion,” he shared. “[I] know great sex, and you should too.”

Iñigo Channels Performance Into Fashion

Opening Day 3 at the Fashion Tent is designer Iñigo, who presented a collection that merged sculptural forms with fluidity, described as a meditation on self-expression, identity, and artistry.

For his debut solo show, the designer took inspiration from within and let his own personal experiences bleed into the paper to behold designs that mirrored his life as a performer.

“The inspiration behind this collection is rooted in the limelight, commanding attention, movement, and versatility,” explained Iñigo in an official statement. “Having grown up on stage as a dancer, these elements were second nature to me as a performer. With this collection, I wanted to translate those same qualities into garments, bringing performance to fashion through fluidity, presence, and emotion.”

The 41 pieces embodied fluid silhouettes and playful prints, as well as intricate fringe work and garments with delicate embroidery and beading. Some of the standout pieces include the maroon fringe maxi dress that moved beautifully; the metallic-textured sleeveless top paired with fluid black trousers that balanced structure and sensuality; and the showstopping gown that paired a crystal-studded halter bodice with a voluminous metallic blue skirt, radiating modern glamour and can make anyone red carpet ready.

“I envisioned what my muses would look like if they were stepping into the spotlight — from elevated looks to wearable statement pieces that embody confidence and artistry. I chose this collection to debut at MNL Fashion Week because it feels deeply personal. It represents a full-circle moment, taking the world I once knew as a performer and expressing it in a different medium. It symbolizes metamorphosis and the beautiful way art forms can evolve and intersect, creating something entirely new, yet still connected to their roots,” said Iñigo.

Beauty queen Michelle Dee also walked down the runway in a stunning, shimmering cow print gown, which was both playful and sexy — providing the perfect end to the show.

DBTK Debuts at Manila Fashion Week

Closing the Day 3 at Samsung Hall is popular Filipino streetwear brand DBTK (Don’t Blame The Kids), which gave us a collection brimming with color, fun prints, and inspired concepts that made casual look high fashion.

DBTK’s “Folding Dreams Into Flight” collection celebrates Filipino streetwear in its purest form and showcases what the brand has been known for since being established in 2012 by brothers Emil and Vince Javier. Colorful, eccentric, and conceptually layered, this bold collection consists of colorful tops such as sweatshirts, hoodies, and graphic tees, bottoms like cargo pants and utility trousers, and various outerwear pieces and accessories, including varsity jackets, windbreakers, and caps.

Although these may sound like your usual everyday wear, DBTK manages to elevate these pieces with bold graphics and slogans that highlight Filipino pride and creativity. Some are also designed with striking prints and embroidered logos, and are designed with loose silhouettes that evoke youth energy.

“Our theme for this debut show is inspired by DBTK’s 13-year journey, from our roots in streetwear to where we are today,” DBTK said in an official statement. “When we received the invitation to join Manila Fashion Week, it felt special because brands like ours rarely get the chance to be part of these kinds of events. That moment made me realize that this was the perfect opportunity to tell our story — why we started, how far we’ve come, and what keeps us moving. ‘Folding Dreams Into Flight’ is a reflection of that journey, a story of growth, curiosity, and purpose.”

Some of the standout pieces from the showcase included the graphic jacket with cars, the bright blue fur bomber jacket paired with cargo pants, and the adorable paper airplane headpiece, which we thought really captured the collection’s theme.

“We want people to feel inspired and to see that streetwear can go beyond what most expect. It’s not just about clothes; it’s about storytelling, raw ideas, and authenticity. Through this show, I hope the audience feels the heart behind what we do — that creativity has no boundaries, and that dreams can take flight no matter where you start.”

Viña Romero Exudes Ethereal Sophistication and Romance

The final day of Manila’s most sartorial week opened with Viña Romero — a show that marked her 10th year in the industry and celebrated the journey that shaped her craft.

Known for her refined craftsmanship and romantic sensibilities, her collection “Mga Bakas: Noon, Ngayon at Bukas” brought together 35 pieces that traced her evolution over the years — each look a testament to the textures, processes, and signature details that have become synonymous with her design language.

“It’s also an ode to the people who have been part of our story,” Viña Romero shared. “The pieces embody the essence of who we are and the life we’ve been slowly building — familiar yet evolving, same-same but different, just like us.”

At the Samsung Hall, the runway moved with effortless grace, washed in earthy tones, soft movement, and modern femininity. The collection reintroduced Viña Romero’s signature pintucking, pleating, and fluid silhouettes, breathing new life into the techniques she’s honed through the years.

Standout pieces included a fluid sky-blue ensemble; an earth-toned, long-sleeved top with white ruffles and matching pants; a white polo blouse with denim accents paired with coordinating trousers; and a multi-colored, panel sleeveless dress with flowy denim pants. Each piece was romantic and grounded, almost like seeing dreams being made wearable.

Viña Romero hoped that the audience would see how much hard work and heart go into every piece. “More than the clothes, I want them to fall in love with the process,” she said. “For us, sustainability goes beyond materials or methods. It’s about designing not just garments, but a way of living — one that’s intentional, grounded, and aligned with the life we want to build.”

Randolf Crescendos with Humor and Heart on the Runway

Closing this week of fashion was designer Randolf, who delivered a spectacle that breathed wit, humor, and unabashed originality onto the MNL Fashion Week 2025 runway.

His collection, “HEAURT,” unfolded like the pages of a diary — an exploration of love and intimacy told through theater, irony, and pure human emotion. Every piece from the collection oozed with the signature Randolf spirit — wit and tongue-in-cheek cultural commentary laced with bold colors and even bolder emotions.

It may seem contrary to the typical palette of romance, but for RJ Santos, that is exactly what love is.

“The collection is called ‘HEAURT,’ a mix of Heart and Hurt, and it is a collection that explores the feeling of loving too much until it hurts,” RJ Santos shared. “It explores the feeling of obsession where one thinks that it’s love when it’s not. I wanted to create a collection that explores these feelings, but I also wanted it to end with the feeling of going back to yourself and having a better sense of self-respect.”

At the Fashion Tent, a bright red heart set against a royal blue backdrop beckoned the attention of everyone in the room. Randolf’s fantasy world came to life through playful contrasts — a green lawn runway, whimsical makeup, and the electric enthusiasm of seeing the finale of MNL Fashion Week’s inaugural season.

Standout looks from the “HEAURT” collection included a two-piece beige ensemble decorated with an embroidered tulip bouquet on the side with scallop-lined shorts; a white cape dress adorned with red hearts and arrows; a long-sleeved piña blend ensemble with ribbons and embroidered flowers; a denim and piña blend tuxedo ensemble with details of “The Creation of Adam” by Michelangelo at the back; a cobalt-blue serpentina gown with a sash embroidered with a sash that reads “miss u 🙁" on the back; and a voluminous white skirt set detailed with hearts and arrows, topped with the words, “I think I’ve done enough <3.”

The show closed with Randolf’s entire team coming out alongside their work. It was stunning to see, and Randolf was no less than proud of what he and his team had done. “It’s their craft,” Randolf shared with The Beat Manila. “I wanted to highlight them in this collection and the techniques they’ve developed over the years.”

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