WITH the new normal, personal protective equipment (PPE) suits and gears have already become a staple. Thus, fashion designers have also embraced the requirements of the current situation.
Edgar Buyan, one of Davao City's popular figures in the fashion industry, has joined others in creating PPE-inspired fashion pieces. However, he makes sure that what he designs are unique and still carry the Mindanaoan vibe.
Before the pandemic, Buyan was focused on designing fabulous wedding and evening gowns. He likewise has the Katutubo Line, which features modern Filipiniana and ethnic-inspired pieces. When Covid-19 started to make a toll on the events industry, Buyan had to adjust.
"Three weeks after the lockdown, I was already jittery what to do; how to go on with the situation. I was already contemplating on what to do with the new normal but I can't still gather my workforce," narrated Buyan, who has been a fashion designer for at least two decades now.
The Davaoeño designer admitted that the pandemic is a huge challenge for him. He shared that he gets a different feeling day after day.
Armed with his courage and an innovative spirit, Buyan still managed to find his niche in the fashion industry.
"My PPE are basically twisted from norm. As you can see, everybody's doing this since this is the new normal. So, I need to step up," he shared.
Stepping up means his PPE are "more chic and more casual to wear" and must be "consistent with my line." Thus, Buyan offers PPE suits with Mindanaoan touch. And there is more! He is set to launch "more modern and more chic" designs soon.
Buyan's market for his PPE-inspired fashion pieces has been expanding. He has accepted more customers to try his creations.
"My clients are basically doctors. It so happened that some sectors, like the salons and spa clinics are also obliged to use per requirements. Surprisingly, lawyers were also asked to wear this during court session," he said.
Amid the challenges brought by the Covid-19 pandemic, Buyan is still full of positivity.
"To my fellow designers, we are one of the most affected sectors since we belong to the non-essential. But, if we try to advance ourselves with positivity, work hard to be heard in our most creative way, surely, we can surpass any trials along the way," he pointed out.
Thanks for the inspiration, Edgar Buyan! Kudos!
(Photos used in this column are from the featured designer.)
***
If you have special events and fashion tips to share, or just want to discuss about any fashion-related concerns with me, you are always free to reach me at mendoza.jennygrace@gmail.com.