Weaving heritage: PH-born designer showcases Filipino fabrics in Belgium runway

Filipino traditional fabrics took center stage in Brussels as Philippine-born Belgian designer Maxime Edward showcased his collection at the recent Roots and Weaves fashion show at the city's La Bellone cultural center.

According to a statement by the Brussels-based Philippine Art and Culture Exchange (PACE), Maxime's collection was driven by a desire to explore and honor his Filipino heritage.

"I was not looking for trends. I wanted a lasting connection with the artisans," Maxime said.

"What touched me the most was the welcome and the feeling that a missing part of me had finally found its home," he added.

Maxime was born at a charity hospital in Quezon City. Adopted by a Belgian couple, Maxime arrived in Belgium at the age of nine months.

Runway fashion

On the La Bellone runway, 17 models showcased Maxime's use of Philippine textiles.

His rich collection featured handwoven cottons from the Mabilong Weavers of Kalinga, Inabel from Ilocos, abaca and piña from Antique and Aklan, and Hablon from Miag-ao, Iloilo.

Maxime called his collection both contemporary and wearable.

"Rather than attempting to replicate traditional Filipiniana… he remained true to his signature aesthetic, creating pieces that highlighted his mastery of structure, construction, and texture," the PACE statement read.

Maxime's collection subtly incorporated Filipino garment styles such as the butterfly sleeves that were positioned instead on the hips, and a sun motif inspired by the Philippine flag.

The fashion show is a project of the Philippine Art and Culture Exchange (PACE), a Brussels-based non-profit organization in collaboration with the Philippine Embassy in Brussels.

The event was part of the 80th anniversary celebration of the Philippine-Belgian diplomatic relations.

According to PACE, Roots and Weaves was more than a fashion event.

"The work of PACE is not only about promoting Philippine art and culture in Belgium and beyond, but also fostering connections, networks, sustainable relationships, and inclusivity," PACE president Louise Baterna said.

"Maxime's background made him the perfect partner for this project. His participation in Tokyo Fashion Week and Vancouver Fashion Week generated considerable attention and demonstrated his growing influence in the international fashion scene," she added.

'Emotional journey'

Highlighting Philippine textiles on an international runway provided Maxime with what he calls an "emotional journey back to the Philippines."

Beyond discovering new materials and finding inspiration for his collection, Maxime shared that the trip ultimately helped him better understand himself.

"Thirty-four years after being adopted and raised by Belgian parents, he had reconnected with his Filipino roots, using fashion as a vehicle to renew ties with his country of birth," PACE said.

The designer said that, while he never faced challenges growing up with his skin color or appearance, he was "always aware that he was different and that part of his identity remained connected to the Philippines."

According to Baterna, Maxime's work has been instrumental in ensuring the continuity of cultural campaigns promoting Philippine fabrics on the Belgian runway and fashion community.

Philippine Ambassador Jaime Victor Ledda told PACE that the Roots and Weaves was a fitting demonstration of the deep connection between the Philippines and Belgium.

To preserve traditional weaving, Ledda added that efforts are ongoing to support artisans and encourage younger generations to learn the craft.

The event was supported by the Department of Agriculture (DA), the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA), and the Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI). — VDV, GMA News