Style Weekend: How sustainable fashion transforms into art

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I’ve always viewed fashion as an art form, where clothing becomes a canvas for self-expression and creativity. From the crafting of fabrics and the selection of colors and threads to designers bringing their visions to life, fashion is a multifaceted process. Ultimately, it all trickles down to the wearer, who transforms each piece into a reflection of their personal journey.

"Worn Stories A Lens on the Lives of Dresses"

Vestido, a curated fashion rental service, is one of the pioneers of sustainable fashion in the Philippines. This commitment drives the team to inspire more people to be mindful of their purchases by opting to rent and rewear. After all, each fashion piece tells a unique story every time it’s worn.

Vestido's Maica Salud-Tady and Cindy Bayot

Aligning with the ongoing Art Fair, Vestido has transformed its space into an exhibition titled “Worn Stories: A Lens on the Lives of Dresses.” The exhibit brings together seven artists, each tasked with selecting a piece from Vestido's collection and translating it into a visual art form—be it photography, video, or installation.

Colin Dancel's black-and-white photos

The exhibition features five photographers, each of whom presents work that delivers depth and challenges the viewer to engage with it. The first artist I encountered was Colin Dancel, whose black-and-white photos skillfully use light and shadow to emphasize the clothing’s silhouettes. Manila-born, Tokyo-based Regine David challenges conventions by capturing intimate yet bold male poses while showcasing unworn clothing pieces.

(Clockwise, from left) Images by Andrea Genota, Shaira Luna, and Regine David

Andrea Genota creates a dreamy mood in her photographs through warm sunset hues. The soft movements of the models, adorned in the clothing pieces, feel almost palpable. Each photo evokes a sense of hope and strength, encouraging personal growth. Shaira Luna, on the other hand, focuses on details captured in fleeting moments. With titles like Vesper and Hush, she expertly documents these quiet instances, inviting viewers to reflect on the beauty of stillness and subtlety.

Camille Robiou du Pont's work

French-born Camille Robiou du Pont captures feminine energy through red lighting in all her photos for this exhibit. Her series, titled “Aether,” represents what she describes as “the unseen, the untouchable, the space between worlds.” Her subjects are not bound by time or space, yet the clothing they wear carries stories from the past while offering glimpses of what’s to come.

Films by Judd Figuerres

In certain areas of the exhibition, visitors will find films created by Judd Figuerres, showcasing Vestido’s customers and suppliers. Shot with non-HD cameras, Judd intentionally incorporates textures and grain in his videos, aiming to establish a more authentic connection with viewers.

Mano Gonzales beside his sculptural work

Last but not least, multidisciplinary artist Mano Gonzales delved deeper into Vestido by immersing himself in its wardrobe. From this experience, he created two installations that are both sculptural and fluid, presenting a fresh way to breathe new life into fashion pieces.

“Worn Stories: A Lens on the Lives of Dresses” runs until Feb. 23 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The exhibition highlights that each fashion piece carries not just one story but many precious chapters, each contributing to its unique narrative. Constantly in motion, these pieces evolve, telling new experiences with each wear and transforming over time.

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