Vince Samonte
The Story Behind
This project aimed to bridge the gap between tradition and modern fashion by creating a collection of t-shirt designs steeped in Filipino heritage yet styled for everyday wear. The collection offers a way for young adults and tradition enthusiasts to express their cultural pride through a fashionable and meaningful statement piece.
Key Considerations:
Meaningful symbolism: Each design should incorporate a symbol with a deeper meaning that connects to Filipino heritage.
Baybayin script: Incorporate Baybayin script (ancient Filipino writing system) to honor tradition and add a unique visual element.
Appealing Style: Maintain a balance between cultural relevance and a modern, fashionable style for everyday wear.
The Solution
Four unique designs were created for the collection:
Malaya (Free): A Philippine Eagle with the 8-rayed sun behind it, all rendered in Philippine flag colours. The eagle symbolizes Filipino heritage, tenacity, and resilience.
Malakas (Strong): A carabao (water buffalo) formed by an intricate ethnic pattern. The carabao represents the strength and perseverance of Filipino farmers.
Butanding (Whale Shark): A playful design featuring a whale shark with Baybayin text for "Butanding." Additional text highlights locations in the Philippines known for whale shark sightings.
Tara Na (Let's Go): A summer-themed design utilizing Baybayin characters. "Ta" depicts a beach and palm tree, "Ra" is an ocean wave with a sun, and "Na" is a beach with an umbrella. This design promotes a sense of adventure and exploration.
The Result
The Sariling Atin Collection was a success, generating positive customer feedback and strong sales among the target audience. The collection resonated with young adults interested in celebrating their heritage and tradition enthusiasts who appreciated the deeper meaning behind the designs.
This project demonstrates the power of combining cultural elements with a contemporary aesthetic to create commercially successful products. The use of Baybayin text sparked interest and offered wearers a connection to Filipino history. This collection paves the way for future collaborations that celebrate diverse cultures and inspire audiences through fashion.