Sustainable fashion on the agenda at BBFW 2022

Sustainable couture and artistry are among the major topics being explored during this year’s two-day BB Fashion Week (BBFW), organizers have announced. 

Award-winning eco-couturier, Oliver Tolentino, will be the featured presenter at a BBFW “Fashion Is Big Business” discussion on the application of sustainable resourcing and development of native artistry as environmental values become more centered in the global fashion agenda. 

Tolentino is a world-renowned designer of luxurious, bridal, couture, and glamorous prêt-à-porter gowns that are immediately recognizable for their exquisite detailing, vibrant colours and striking silhouettes. He is also acknowledged as a global leader in eco couture for his innovative melding of high fashion with sustainable fabrics, an approach that supports and promotes the artistry of his native Philippines. 

The native Filipino fabrics Tolentino currently uses are Piña, handwoven from the fibers of pineapple leaves, Abaca (Manila hemp) and the Silk from Negros. This list is expected to grow; Filipino weavers are experimenting with other fibres. 

Oliver Tolentino – fashion designer and eco-couturier

“Issues relating to the environment and sustainable business practices in fashion call for us to see things differently, to use what we have available to break new ground when it comes to sourcing materials,” said Rodney Powers, BBFW Executive Producer. “At the same time there is a chance for us to develop new sub-industries, as suppliers and artisans emerge to provide raw materials and the innovation required to produce the fabrics, notions and other inputs.” 

“The event is free to attend, thanks to the vision and support of the National Cultural Foundation,” said Powers. “It is an opportunity not to be missed and we want to encourage persons to attend and take advantage of this invaluable opportunity.” 

Meanwhile, this 15th annual celebration of fashion and innovation will also feature a much sought-after men’s design and styling workshop presented by leading menswear designer, Rickie Lee of Lee Rickie Collection (LRC). 

“This year, through the support of the National Cultural Foundation, we are answering the call from designers and other persons with a keen interest in men’s fashion,” Powers said. “The Lee Rickie brand has been worn by celebrities like Diddy, Morris Chestnut and Dwight Howard and is known for pushing menswear past boundaries of what people see as traditional men’s clothing.” 

Based in California, USA, Lee Rickie Collection is an e-commerce driven apparel company that designs, manufactures and sells menswear clothing. LRC places specific emphasis on contemporary luxury ready-to-wear garments with a focus on superb customer service and high-end textiles. LRC has made a huge impact in the menswear community and continues to grow in popularity every year. 

“Research indicates that globally the menswear market is expected to reach more than US$700 billion by 2027 so this is most definitely not a market to be ignored. We’re so pleased that Rickie Lee was available to come and share his knowledge and experience and we encourage all interested persons to register and attend the workshop,” Powers said. 

The Men’s Design & Styling Workshop takes place on Thursday, October 27 and Friday, October 28 at the Caribbean Market Center, Newton Industrial Estate, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Interested persons are invited to register at https://form.jotform.com/222705406407046. Participation is free of charge. (PR)