RP fashion and indigenous fabrics debut in Zurich

By Lily O Ramos

MANILA, July 3 (PNA) -- To make the celebration of the Philippine Independence last June 12 in Switzerland memorable, the Filipino-Swiss community in Zurich held a lovely fashion show that promoted their own haute couture.

In cooperation with the Department of Tourism (DOT)and the Philippine Embassy based in Berne, the Filipinos presented the fashion collection of designer Nono Palmos that featured European inspired designs using indigenous fabrics such as the "patadyong," "piña," "gaddang" and "yakan."

The well-attended dinner cum fashion event held at the Swissotel City Ballroom in Zurich welcomed more than 350 guests from the Swiss government, business, travel media and tour stakeholders.

The audience greatly appreciated the presentation with inquiries pouring after the show and buyers wanting to own the fabrics.

One of the favorites is a European version of the Filipiniana outfit, made out of piña fabric as shown in the DOT photo above.

The organizers felt doubly proud of their unique culture and heritage which intrigued the Europeans to no end. It stirred a strong sense of nationalism and pride among the the Filipinos who gladly explained the source of their merchandise.

The show's goal is to help Filipino ethnic weavers from several regions in the Philippines to continue creating their centuries-old craft to sustain their livelihood. (PNA)