Fashion is a reflection of our values and aspirations. In a conversation with MEGA, these creatives share their commitment to sustainability
April unfurls its green banner as the world celebrates Earth Day, a global homage to the blue-green sphere we call home. Since its inception in 1970, the event has become a powerful platform for raising environmental consciousness and fostering activism. This year’s theme, “Planet vs Plastics”, according to Earth Day’s official website, acknowledges the urgent issue of plastic pollution and its impact on nature. With that comes the discussion of one of the biggest pollutants the world has ever worn: fashion. Through conversations with creatives Rajo Laurel, Martin Bautista, Gee Jocson, Santi Obcena, and Gabbie Sarenas, we explore how they are embracing sustainability and addressing the pressing need for change.
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Rajo Laurel
Rajo Laurel emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and intentionality in both creation and consumption. “Sustainability for me is all about the consciousness to create and consume with the mindset of caution, control and craft. These 3 words guide me whenever I create and whenever I consume,” he says.
He advocates for a thoughtful approach, asking himself critical questions about the longevity and ethical considerations of each piece. “I ask myself, ‘Do I really love it, will it stand the test of time? Did I make this with absolute care? Did it cause any harm to other or the environment while I was making this?’ All these questions I must answer, and if I am satisfied with the outcome, then perhaps, in one small way I will be part of the solution,” Rajo concludes.
Martin Bautista
Martin Bautista highlights the need for practicality and versatility in fashion design. “Sustainability is being mindful of our practices—in my case, creating clothes,” he explains.
“We find ways to create pieces that can be worn more than once, with different ways to be styled,” Bautista shares. The integration of pieces into an existing wardrobe as he creates something from scratch promotes constant usability through fashion.
Gee Jocson
Stylist Gee Jocson champions resourcefulness and waste reduction in her approach to sustainability. She views it as a practice and discipline centered on conscientious resource management, underscoring the need to minimize waste. “Sustainability is a practice and discipline on how you use your resources,” she shares.
Jocson’s commitment to responsible stewardship of environmental resources is evident in her dedication to ensuring that nothing goes to waste, embodying a proactive stance towards environmental preservation.
Santi Obcena
Santi Obcena focuses on innovation through creativity in sustainable fashion. He emphasizes the value of reimagining traditional methods and materials, saying, “Sustainability for me is rethinking the old ways and learning how to make clothes with a conscience and being more thoughtful with my choices.”
“Making reusable pieces that last is the first step,” he reveals. “Second step is incorporating techniques like deconstruction and reimagining existing pieces to newer ones.”
Gabbie Sarenas
Gabbie Sarenas prioritizes investing in enduring quality, opting for items designed for long-term use rather than frequent replacements. “For me, it’s purchasing items that I will use many times or will wear in the next couple of years and so. It will also mean buying quality pieces that have stood and will stand the test of time,” she says.
As a designer, she values crafting garments that are versatile and classic, ensuring they remain wardrobe staples for her clients for years to come. “What applies is that it has to have a bigger range for styling, something classic that the client will wear many times and after many years,” Sarenas further explains.
In celebrating Earth Day and exploring sustainability in fashion, we find inspiration from the voices of Rajo Laurel, Martin Bautista, Gee Jocson, Santi Obcena, and Gabbie Sarenas. Their perspectives curate mindful creation, versatile design, innovative approaches, and resourceful stewardship. When we reflect on Earth Day’s message of environmental responsibility, let us heed their call to action for a sustainable future for all.
Photos and Featured Image: MEGA ARCHIVES; GEE JOCSON (via Instagram)
