AS the sun began to set over the picturesque beach of Misibis Bay Resort in Albay, a sense of anticipation and excitement rippled through the air. It was a momentous occasion, and the runway was set to be unlike any other.
Fast-rising fashion designer Ellis Co stood at the starting point, ready to embark on a journey that would mark a turning point in his life and career.
Ellis took his first step onto the runway, and with each stride, his heart swelled with pride. Behind him, his models donned his exquisite creations, and his creative team followed, their eyes reflecting the same passion and determination that fueled his dreams. The catwalk was not just a pathway; it was a stage for his artistic vision to come alive, and the entire beach was his canvas.
The runway covered the entire beach stretch of the five-star hotel, embraced by the breathtaking beauty of Misibis Bay. The crashing waves provided a rhythmic soundtrack, harmonizing with the beats of the music, creating an ethereal ambiance that seemed to transport everyone present into a different world—one that was both captivating and mesmerizing.
In an interview with Manila Standard Life, Ellis poured his heart out, acknowledging that this moment was not just his triumph, but a testament to the dedication and hard work of his entire team. Their collective effort had brought his vision to life, and he was humbled by the results they had achieved together.
Albay held a dear place in Ellis’ heart, and as he looked out at the audience, he knew this runway was more than just a venue; it was a symbolic return to his roots. The memories of his childhood, the people who had inspired him, and the landscapes that had shaped his perspective were all woven into the fabric of his designs.
As the show concluded, Ellis felt an overwhelming sense of fulfillment and purpose. He knew that this was just the beginning of a remarkable journey ahead. His dreams extended far beyond the shores of Misibis Bay; he aspired to capture the hearts of the Asian markets, starting with Japan, where his creativity and artistry could make a global impact.
Phases/Faces, the first Resort/Cruise collection of Ellis’ high-fashion streetwear brand .ARCHIVES, had become more than just a collection of clothes. It was a testament to self-reflection and the profound influence people had on shaping one’s art and identity. Through gender-neutral designs, Ellis celebrated inclusivity and the beauty of individuality.
Ellis revealed, “This collection is my most personal and most intimate one yet because the show will be held in Bicol, which is my home province. I always fly back every time I’m on break in the summer or the holidays. I use the time to reflect and think about my designs.”
Ellis added that .ARCHIVES Creative Director Reika Mayani was instrumental in producing and conceptualizing Phases/Faces, which is an ode to all the people they have met in their lives.
Ellis and Reika share a strong and creative working relationship. Ellis, who is also a DJ and a producer, worked with Reika during his foray into music. He also collaborated with her for .ARCHIVES’ debut collection, Memoirs of the Future, inspired by Japanese architecture and brutalism.
“It’s a 22-piece collection because it’s lucky for us to use angel numbers,” Ellis revealed. “As the name suggests, the collection will represent the phases that Reika and I underwent and the faces that have impacted our lives.”
Exhibiting Ellis’ sharp eye for urban streetwear, Phases/Faces is a testament to the design aesthetic of .ARCHIVES. As Ellis puts it, the collection encapsulates his taste for pieces that can withstand the test of time. .ARCHIVES captures the zeitgeist of the moment, “archiving” Ellis’ designs like a collection of historical records—remnants of him as a designer for years to come.
of Resort/Cruise collection
For Phases/Faces, he sourced technical fabrics and denim from Japan to create functional pieces such as parkas, jackets, and cargo pants. He also incorporated abaca (Manila hemp), a native product in Bicol, into his accessories.
More than paying homage to the people who have influenced him, Ellis wants.ARCHIVES and his collection resonate strongly with the younger crowd and designers. He believes Gen Z designers don’t have to necessarily create clothes suited to the Philippines’ climate conditions. They should stick to their gut and design what feels right for them.
crowd and designers
“Don’t be afraid to challenge the norm,” he said. “Do what you love. If you want to design winter clothing but the climate conditions say otherwise, go for it. In that way, you create products that are intimate rather than just cashing in on sales.”