Randy Ortiz's 35th-anniversary collection takes you on a runway rollercoaster and the only thing hoarded more than rare fabrics is the applause

by Mika Reyes
Photos from Randy Ortiz
November 21, 2023

In a dazzling spectacle that could only be described as a sartorial symphony, Randy Ortiz, the maestro of Filipino fashion, took center stage at the illustrious Greenbelt 5's gallery to showcase his 35th-anniversary collection. The atmosphere crackled with anticipation as the curtain rose on a celebration that seamlessly blended contemporary elegance with a playful nod to local influences.

Ortiz, the luminary hailing from the vibrant tapestry of South Cotabato in Mindanao, brought forth a collection that was not merely a display of garments but a kaleidoscopic journey through his rich, multi-island heritage. The applause echoed through the gallery as each piece, meticulously crafted, paid homage to the diverse cultural tapestry that has shaped Ortiz's distinctive aesthetic.

The runway unfurled like a scroll, weaving through three chapters, each echoing the essence of a major island group. Mindanao kicked off the fashion fiesta, a burst of color and vitality. The Visayan segment followed, with a playful dance between traditional barongs and balintawaks. The grand finale belonged to Luzon, embodying the chic spirit of Manila living.

Orchestrating this couture symphony were models both seasoned and fresh-faced, embodying the timeless allure of Ortiz's creations. A reunion of 1990s top models, including Tweetie de Leon-Gonzalez, Wilma Doesnt, Phoemela Baranda, Raffy Ladao, and Jack de Mesa, added a nostalgic touch, while crooner Ogie Alcasid regaled the audience with tales of Ortiz's creative journey.

The fabrics, oh, the fabrics! A mesmerizing display of indigenous handwoven treasures graced the runway—ina’ul and t’nalak from Mindanao, piña and hablon from the Visayas, and inabel and indang from Luzon. The men strutted in jackets adorned with bold colors and mixed patterns, while the women donned silk tops elegantly paired with fashion-forward patterned skirts.

Steering this opulent affair were Jackie Aquino and Robbie Carmona, friends of Ortiz, who deftly directed the show towards a new frontier—one where local culture and heritage took center stage. This thematic alignment with Ayala Malls' "Bravo! Filipino" initiative made Greenbelt 5 the perfect stage for Ortiz's grand revelation.

As the final curtain descended on this anniversary extravaganza, Randy Ortiz emerged not just as a designer but as a custodian of culture, a Filipino fashion icon whose heart beats to the rhythm of his roots. In the ever-evolving landscape of couture, Ortiz's creations are more than garments; they are love letters to a nation, penned with every stitch and embellished with the vibrant threads of a heritage celebrated.