Quezon City names finalists for sustainable fashion shows

A total of 20 finalists were named by the Quezon city government on Thursday for the “RETASHOW: QC’s Catwalk to Sustainability,” a city-led sustainable fashion show.

Retashow, which will take place on April 26 at SM Novaliches, will feature local talents’ fashionable designs from recycled fabrics to raise awareness about the environmental impact of textile waste and promote sustainable fashion choices among QCitizens.

The finalists include fashion designers John Montecalvo, Hazel Roldan and Juan Miguel Rosario, and clothing company owners Maricris Pabelico, Kaye-Lyn Partulan and Kristine Joy Victor; along with design-related professionals Neil Bryan Capistrano, Renegade Limpin and Michael Mayores.

Also in the running are BPO employees Johnsent Talento and Lloyd Rainier Sexon and students Loisse Zsanelle Roque, Giemhela Divina, Stephanie Madolid, Janah Victoria Tropel and Iballo Jashmin. The selection is completed by school administrative officer Khazlyn Lim, dance choreographer Mark Jay Panganiban and housewife Rowena Coquia.

“We are excited to introduce our new allies in tackling the growing problem of textile waste. They come from all walks of life, proving that everyone can lead and be part of our advocacy efforts to create a green, livable and sustainable future for all,” said Mayor Joy Belmonte.

The designers, carefully chosen to counter fashion’s environmental toll on a diverse group of applicants, bring a mix of youthful energy and experience. They will showcase everyday wear ensembles made with at least 70 percent recycled textiles and fabrics.

“We want to promote upcycled fashion as a basic product: garments that can be worn effortlessly from home to the street, to school or to the office, and social activities after work,” explains Andrea Villaroman, Head of the Department of Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability (CCESD). .

“We would like to resonate with Gen Z, known for their environmental consciousness and active role in the upcycling revolution. Many of them prioritize sustainability over brand names, demonstrating a shift towards conscious fashion consumption,” Villaroman added.