In his effort to help elevate the local fashion community, Rhett Eala welcomes local designers to his space
When it comes to retail shopping, our eyes scan through countless designs that represent the designer’s creativity. We resonate with some pieces and consider them as our preference, a personal style that we continue to build as time goes on. But what if retail can mean something more?
An initiative to gather fellow designers and practitioners in the country, Rhett Eala utilizes his space in Greenbelt 5 to create a place where local fashion is championed in their effort to elevate it and make it accessible to the market.
A design-driven spirit and eye for style that is chic and seamless, we can count on Rhett Eala to give us a line of clothing that is perfect for everyday dressing. And while the store includes his staple designs, he gives retail a new meaning as he welcomes other local designers to his space.
“I wanted to share the space with other local designers or labels that present a fresh and distinct take on Filipino design for everyday dressing.”
Rhett Eala
To start the endeavor, Rhett Eala invited guest designers to display their works in the store. Bitagcol, TdLG, and Ivarluski Aseron—three esteemed fashion practitioners in our local fashion landscape immediately stepped in the idea once Rhett Eala shared his plan for his first ever retail curation with fellow designers.
“Tito Rhett is a retail visionaire. When I was invited to join, I knew right away that it would be a privilege to learn from him through this space. It was an immediate ‘yes!’” said Jo Ann Bitagcol. Meanwhile, Tweetie de Leon Gonzalez shared, “He possesses a unique intuition for what will work and that which will not. I’ve had some presence in Rhett’s other retail spaces and it has worked well for both of us. He and I share a deep respect for each other’s craft and business ethics.”
Jo Ann Bitagcol
A design exploration so recent yet unique, Jo Ann Bitagcol offers a range of pieces that quite literally infuses the past and the present. The model, photographer, and visual artist ventured into her design journey without leaving out her creative roots. Combining textile with photography, her pieces are printed with her photos of traditional garments and are constructed in an inclusive and genderless manner. She shared, “The idea is to convey the rich story of Philippine culture through fashion that speaks to all ages, gender, and body type.”
Tweetie de Leon Gonzalez
The supermodel, actress, and TV personality ventures into the world of accessories with a wanderlust spirit by her side as she displays handmade pieces from her label, TdLG. The collection of jewelry laid out in the space is one-of-a-kind, a representation of one’s journey of adventure and discovery.
Ivarluski Aseron
Loved by many, Ivarluski Aseron joins the space with his curated pieces that reflect his artistry in an RTW fashion. Ivarluski explained, “My collection is very casual, but there are details that are truly aligned with my aesthetic. Most pieces are gender-neutral. I came up with the collection thinking of pieces I can wear myself, and to give consumers options that are different and unique.” Known for his modern sculptural design in the world of couture, many practitioners in the industry celebrate the designer’s skill in tailoring and complex detailing.
And though the start of Rhett’s retail concept began with three esteemed fashion practitioners, he plans on giving the space to many designers in our local fashion community who can help elevate design and style in our country.
