Filipino Design Innovations and Influential Designers

Filipino Design Innovations

• Filipino designers are making significant contributions in various design fields, including furniture, lighting, interior accessories, and haute couture.
• This includes bridal ensembles and casual wear.

Kenneth Cobonpue

• A multi-awarded designer and creative director of HIVE, a design and manufacturing facility.
• His fresh concepts and excellent craftsmanship have garnered international acclaim.
• He has a large celebrity following, including prominent Hollywood figures.

Monique Lhuiller

• A fashion designer specializing in bridal wear.
• She owns a couture fashion house in Los Angeles and Manhattan.

Josie Natori

• A Filipino-American fashion designer and CEO of The Natori Company.
• Served as a commissioner on the White House Conference on Small Business.
• Received the "Peopling of America" Award from the Statue of Liberty - Ellis Island Foundation.
• Also received the Order of Lakandula, a prestigious Philippine award.

Rajo Laurel

• A renowned Filipino fashion designer recognized internationally.
• Known for his appearances as a judge on Project Runway Philippines.
• Trained at prestigious design institutions, including New York's Fashion Institute of Technology and Central Saint Martins.

Lulu Tan Gan

• Known as the "Queen of Knitwear" for her beautifully crafted knitwear.
• Has been involved in the design industry since 1985, with a focus on hand-woven pieces and "Indigenous Couture," which merges contemporary and traditional Philippine craftsmanship.
• Designs are popular with expats, tourists, and celebrities.

Dita Sandico-Ong

• A Filipino designer promoting local weaving techniques and natural fibers.
• Known as the "Wrap Artiste" of the Philippines, experimenting with Ilocos Sur's Inabel weave and pineapple fibers blended with Irish linen (piñalino).