Local natives

MANILA, Philippines - Homegrown brand Euniform is all about finding simplicity in modernity. And for “Double Eu,” the indie label’s latest made-to-measure capsule collection, fashion designer Eunice Armilda breathes new life into traditional textiles by taking striped Inabel — an Ilocano hand-woven fabric — and giving it a distinctly Euniform spin. Featuring a relaxed-fit lapel-less blazer, loose tailored joggers, a free-size off-shoulder frock, elastic-waist boxer shorts, and a boxy top with a thick ribbed knit neckband (besides emulating the appearance of a T-shirt, the exaggerated neckband actually makes the top much easier to wear), the unrestricting silhouettes and minimalist sensibility of this five-piece collection embraces the idea of everyday wear — no-fuss, comfortable, and meant to be worn over and over again.

YStyle sits down with the local designer to get the lowdown on Euniform’s signature aesthetic and fresh wardrobe essentials.

YSTYLE: Tell us about Euniform’s beginnings. How did the brand start?

EUNICE ARMILDA: The idea to build a brand like Euniform has been with me since I was very young. I kept going back to it and improving it until years went by and I found the chance to finally put it up in 2014. It had its birthing pains; now we’re dealing with growing pains.

What’s the story behind your latest capsule collection? What fabric did you use?

I wanted to somewhat desecrate that idea of indigenous fabrics being exclusive to formalwear and homeware, so I used woven inabel for the collection. While the Ilocano fabric is thick and heavy, it’s very comfortable to wear.

Minimalism is a running theme in all of your designs. How similar or different is the current collection with your past offerings?

It’s similar in a way that the styles are still visual puns, as seen in the-shirt-that-looks-like-a-shirt. The difference this time is that I finally got to play with the striped Inabel fabric that was custom-made for Euniform.

What influences the Euiformn aesthetic?

It’s influenced by the philosophy less-is-more. 

What’s your take on the ready-to-wear scene in Metro Manila, at least for local independent labels?

We’re evolving.

Any future plans for the label?

Overall, the plan has always been to make better things and to make things better for our customer.

Photos by KOJI ARBOLEDA

Styled by MJ BENITEZ

Hair and makeup by SARI CAMPOS of Make Up For Ever

Modeled by JULIAN AURINE FLORES

Stylist assisted by FED PUA