Admit it or not, but you might have taken notice of how Alamat members pull off each textile and print with their OOTDs. To complement their unique styling, they are stitching a seamless partnership with the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) as the agency’s TelAmbassadors.
DOST made it official during the signing of a memorandum of agreement last November 26, 2023, followed by the P-POP group’s incredible performance of their recent tracks while flaunting a unique set of sustainable and well-crafted outfits from head to toe.
Since their debut in 2021, they have redefined what it means to be an “alamat” in music, culture, and of course, fashion. Taking a closer look at the outfits of members Taneo, Tomas, R-Ji, Alas, Mo, and Jao feels like deep diving into an exciting history lecture. You never saw it coming, and now we’re more than invested with the stories behind the fabrics.
Here’s what we’ve learned so far with their fashion sense that knows no bounds.
Sustainability is a Fashion Forward Style
If sustainability and innovation are to be married, Alamat members are the first to present at the altar. While they take pride in showcasing diverse stories from the local regions, all hands are also on deck in keeping their branding more eco-friendly. After all, these fabrics are all meticulously crafted by hand. It’s no surprise that their fits are always runway-ready!
During the Stitch-Off Tech-Know Fashion Show, the boys were also seen rocking blue kicks designed by Maco Custodio and were in fact made out of DOST-PTRI’s Philippine Tropical Fabrics. Bettina Bañez, the stylist behind their iconic fits, proudly shared on X that the same fabrics were featured on their “tribal look” for the Day and Night MV.
Sharing here @Official_ALAMAT’s footwear tonight. These are made out of sustainable Philippine Tropical Fabrics designed by Maco Custodio ❤️Some of these fabrics were also used in the Tribal look of Day & Night MV 🫶🏻Thank you @DOSTphl -PTRI pic.twitter.com/6CGOswRAF0— Bettina Banez (@BettinaBanez) October 26, 2023
Local Designers Are Here to Make A Point
From casual street style to formal pieces, we can’t deny that Alamat’s styling is always on brand. Since the release of their debut photos that left us mesmerized, it’s no secret that it takes a village to build their lookbook. Thanks to our local designers, the boys are serving looks on stage and on screen.
Victor Baguilat Jr., CEO and founder of Kandama Collective, shared that it’s a treat to work with Alamat. “Up to this day, I am fond of the design concept. I have great admiration for the boys and the ease of working with them; but most importantly, I have utter respect for what they stand for.” Teaming up with fashion geniuses who hold the same advocacy not only brings their concept to life but also nails down authenticity with the call to #SupportLocal.
Wear It With Pride
Style is nothing if you don’t wear it with pride. Taking inspiration from the country’s archives is a good thing, and taking the time to explain its historical value during interviews, vlogs, and even on social media is another. Just take a look at these behind-the-scenes snaps from their creative director JP Laxamana.
Fun fact: this set of outfits (designer by Mark Dela Peña) were inspired by real Agimat or Anting-Anting vests worn to ward off dangerALAMAT AGIMAT OUTFITS#ALAMATAswang#ALAMATAswangJAO https://t.co/U20ciYBWuh pic.twitter.com/PqQWbIxllz— Jason Paul Laxamana (@jplaxamana) October 21, 2022
Nakalkal sa baul: Victor Baguilat Jr's (Kandama) initial design for @Official_ALAMAT's 'kasmala' Mandirigma outfits pic.twitter.com/m7z9qQKvca
— Jason Paul Laxamana (@jplaxamana) October 9, 2022
Bringing indigenous culture into the mainstream scene is one of the boldest fashion choices they made. Now that they are officially representing the campaign for Philippine textiles, we’re looking forward to more fits that speak volumes!