This clothing brand aims to tell the story of Mindanao through carefully curated textile designs

Meet Studio Süg, a clothing line that seeks to tell the story of Mindanao and its people through carefully curated textile designs.

Mainly using Yakan from Basilan and Pis Siyabit from the Tausugs, Studio Süg’s collection offers a wide variety of items surely suit any kind of fashionista.

Robes, dresses, ternos, and even pajama sets are accentuated with unique and authentic weaves from indigenous people in the Philippines.

Studio Süg’s founder Bea Constantino said it was important for her to highlight the culture of her provinces, Zamboanga and Sulu.

“They’re all woven by memory,” she said during a recent media familiarization tour by Philippine Airlines (PAL) and the Philippine Tourism Promotions Board (TPB).

“In all the millions of meters of yards they produce, no two weaves are the same. The history behind it always goes hand in hand. It’s [our] responsibility to be able to communicate that alongside the fabric.”

“Feeling ko lang weaves are a piece of history like it’s been passed on from generation to generation and if people stop talking about it or if there’s no attention there, what happens?” she said.

According to Bea, Studio Süg aims to showcase the beauty of the locale, region, and province as it acknowledges the reality "that it is a peace-conflict area.”

Formerly known as Herman & Co, Studio Süg rebranded early in 2021 with more offerings, to encourage more to support local fashion.

“I just really want brands like mine (to show) that there is Filipino fashion and it’s wearable fashion. It is competitive fashion. It’s current fashion,” she said.

“We don’t have to solely rely on other foreign or outsider brands when it comes to what we wear ‘cause Filipino fashion is not just formal or Filipiniana or (for) special occasions. It’s for everyday wear also.”

Studio Süg’s pieces such as the Mercibel Robe can be used in any activity — island hopping, even — which embodies the brand's goal to keep it “mindful, gentle, and comforting.”

Apart from history and culture, Bea wanted to showcase the slow and relaxed "probinsya pace" in their clothes. As such, structure takes a back seat to "loose and flowy silhouettes. 

“You’ll barely see anything structured. If it’s anything structured, it’s an accent or it’s a statement piece but usually, it’s just flowing, airy, and easy to wear,” she added.

Apart from clothing, Studio Süg also offers accessories to go with its attires including bayongs that are available in various colors, and even eye masks to go with the pajama sets. — LA, GMA News

Check out the Studio Süg website for more information.