At first glance, you’d think these clothes are brand-new and branded.

But would you believe they are made from old, discarded garments, upgraded to a new level?

This is what they call upcycling.

These upcycled outfits were modeled at Carantes Street in Baguio City.

This was part of the Retobar Street Fashion Show, a feature of the Ibagiw Festival 2024.

“Why not use our creativity to reinvent and create a fresh look and style?” Arch. Jonard Jardenil, Organizer, Retobar Street Fashion Show, questioned.

Among the models wearing pieces designed by nine local fashion designers were TV personality Ms. Bea and model Kiandra.

“It’s super fulfilling because we’re definitely showcasing slow fashion that can help our planet,” said Ms. Bea, model.

“I feel exhilarated. It’s really thrilling, exciting. I truly enjoyed modeling these creations,” said Kiandra Mya, model.

This was a big break for local sustainable fashion designers Julienne and Charlyn.

According to Julienne Paran, a Local Sustainable Fashion Designer, “Actually, these are upcycled. It helps the environment because this is where we source the materials we upcycle.”

“I feel so overwhelmed. It’s surprising how unusable materials can be repurposed into something beautiful,” Charlyn Presco, a Local Sustainable Fashion Designer, added.

Alongside the fashion show, local artisans were recognized for their contributions to advancing the city’s creative industry.

This is said to reflect the continuous embrace of change and innovation by creatives.

“I think we should embrace it. Everybody has to unite and be on the same page,” said Venus Tan, Co-chairman, Creative Baguio City Council.

Reflecting the theme of Ibagiw 2024, “inquisitive, disruptive, and creative,” artists will continue to rise to the challenges of the modern era.

**JOSE ROBERT INVENTOR