Dita Sandico Ong: Bringing out the Modern Filipina under wraps
For some time, Dita Sandico Ong has been someone I have wanted to meet. I was inspired how she had the vision to transform the use of banana, abacca and other natural plant fibers into a fashion art form. I read somewhere before that her efforts have made it possible for revolutionizing the Philippine natural fiber industry by providing communities in dying industries with more sustainable income and struggling cultural heritage to become alive again.
I admired her fashion so much that I wanted my wedding gown done by her, but due to budget considerations, I didn’t even ask, hayyy.
That was more than 9 years ago and at the Manila F.A.M.E, who should I chance upon unexpectedly???
It was exciting to see the artist skillfully do the folds herself. Seeing her gather the abacca ends into loops, without any apparent direction or pattern but merely falling into the rhythm of the fabric is just simply inspiring. I realized, just how much of her style has also inspired me in mine for my flowers.
The long awaited meeting was just an exchange of a few words, but I was starstruck. Imagine, finally meeting somebody you admire not only for their work, but also their ideals?
Here are just some of her works for those few people who are yet unfamiliar with this lady’s artistry.
The one on the left is the wrap Dita recreated on the runway. The one on the left is Php4000+, so it can be a bit of investment. But since you can wear it in so many ways, its like having more than one outfit, doesn't it?
These shawls are made from abacca fiber and can be handwashed, not really scrubbed and it will last for years.
Since these are made from natural fibers, it will turn moldy when stored in plastic. It's best that these fine pieces be stored unwrapped and hung in a well ventilated place (inside the closet will do). One should be careful that it is hugh with the folds running they way it should, otherwise it will lose it's form entirely.
Being a bag lady, I couldn't resist her bags and clutches. This one runs for about P900+.
On real people (albeit, not the average person) here is how these elegant wraps can be worn.
One of her assitants told me, her work is really categorized as Modern Filipiniana. With this piece, I can really see why. Now that's a modern terno young Filipinas can carry.
This wrap shows how it can be very versatile and the wearer is just limited to her imagination.
This wrap skirt was displayed as a wrap in the exhibit.
If you would like to see more of her work in person, she will have her High on Silver 25th year Fashion Gala. This will be on May 30, 2010, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at the A-Venue Antel Lifestyle Center, Makati. It will celebrate her eco fashion, sustainable living as well as her Ilocano Heritage, which would make it even more interesting, considering that she kicked off her career featuring abel iloco in her debut collection.
They say her collection is Modern Filipiniana, but for me its more about being a Fearlessly Modern Filipina. I guess its either you have it in you or these will bring it out, which one will it be for you I wonder?
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Dita Sandico Ong
35 Wilson St., Greenhills, San Juan
www.ditasandicoong.com.ph
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Filed under Green Living Tips, Green Weddings, Green and Girly, Makings of Pinoy Pride, Pinoy EcoChic Finds by .
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Comments on Dita Sandico Ong: Bringing out the Modern Filipina under wraps
8:58 am
I love your wraps. I bought 5 of the Mariposa but the problem is I’m not as creative as you are to make different styles oout of one piece. Please make more styles on your video for me to follow.
People love,love,love your wraps..they see only one sytle, though.
Thank you!!