The Modern Filipina embraces these local, sustainable brands that are both fashion-forward and culturally resonant

Words Julia de Armas
Mar 11, 2024

There's an undeniable allure to locally-made shoes that no Louboutin or Valentino can match. The Modern Filipina embraces a style that is both fashion-forward and culturally resonant. As trends evolve and diversify, the local footwear scene has witnessed a remarkable surge in small businesses driven by a new wave of passionate visionary minds who are revitalizing the shoe-making industry.

This embrace of Filipino-Made is not merely about fashion but a celebration of craftsmanship and a movement for sustainability. As consumers become more socially aware, there's a growing demand for the uniqueness and soulfulness of handcrafted shoes. So, in a world where fast fashion often comes at a high cost, keep these show-stopping brands on your radar.

Jos Mundo

Jos Mundo finds its creative sanctuary in a Marikina factory, where its distinctive heels are meticulously crafted from reclaimed wood, showcasing the natural textures of the timber. They take pride in their environmentally conscious approach, customizing their Rampa Platforms using a blend of recycled and pure Philippine rubber. Though shoe-making takes at least ten days, these one-of-a-kind pieces defying trends are worth the wait.

Catsua

Catsua welcomes the world by celebrating roots and honoring local shoemakers who’ve perfected their craft through generations. With an ethos of preserving this rich heritage, the proudly local shoe label indulges in the beauty of Filipino craftsmanship through modern designs and traditional techniques. Inspired by the simplicity of the Japanese Geta, PLUSH in Cloud becomes a symbol of modern elegance with its clean elements and sophisticated silhouettes.

Rô

With their sleek and straightforward design, these shoes embody everything a minimalist desires. But don't mistake simplicity for lack of style; Rô’s Gloves stand out with their understated tones and intriguing cuts. A local brand that prides itself on timeless handcrafted leather sandals, Rô maintains its commitment to quality craftsmanship and preserving the heritage and techniques of shoemaking.

Palengke

Echoing the vibrancy of Filipino culture and its people, Palengke stands out as a local clothing brand celebrating everyday life. With a keen eye for the playful essence found in the often-overlooked details that define the Filipino experience, their out-of-the-box creations effortlessly complement any ensemble. Palengke introduces the Knaur Cube Heels, distinguished by their chunky block heel inspired by the ubiquitous broth cube, a staple in Filipino households.

Minsan

Minsan Objects epitomizes leather craftsmanship, with each creation crafted from smooth leather in rich hues. Their debut collection, Pavilion, draws inspiration from Filipino slippers of the 1930s. Among their recent releases is Pura, a pair of tie-up Mary Janes. In reverence to the artisans who dedicated hours of their lives to craft each piece, Minsan ensures that their shoes are cherished and used, honoring the meticulous process behind each design.