Meet the Designers of SoFA's Graduation Fashion Show

A new generation of visionaries take the stage in SoFA’s Annual Graduation Fashion Show

Words Mika Reyes
Photos courtesy of SoFA
January 28, 2025

Mara Sofia Imperial

Last January 18, the SoFA Design Institute—hailed as the Philippines’ premier design school—hosted its 2025 Graduation Fashion Show, "FOREGATHER." Held on January 18 at The Fifth at Rockwell in Makati City, the event marked the debut of 20 promising designers who unveiled their six-piece collections to an audience of fashion connoisseurs, industry experts, and supportive loved ones.

At its heart, "FOREGATHER" celebrated the power of storytelling through fashion. These collections were profound expressions of personal truths, cultural narratives, and transformative journeys. Featuring graduates from both the 4-Year BA Fashion Design and Marketing program and the 2-Year Fashion Design and Marketing course, the show embodied a harmonious blend of emerging talent and diverse creative voices.

The SoFA Method

SoFA Design Institute’s unique pedagogical approach, known as the "SoFA Method," places self-discovery at the forefront of design education. By encouraging students to delve into their personal experiences and perspectives, the institute nurtures a distinctive design language for each aspiring creative.

This philosophy was evident in the portfolios displayed at the entrance of the venue. Guests were invited to immerse themselves in the creative processes of each designer, highlighted through a photographic collaboration with artist Bimpoman. The stunning visuals captured the individuality and bold narratives that shaped each collection.

Amina Aranáz-Alunan, Co-Founder and Chairperson of SoFA Design Institute

A Star-Studded Opening and Collaborative Excellence

Amina Aranáz-Alunan, a pillar of the Philippine fashion industry, opened the evening with a rousing speech celebrating the designers’ achievements. She emphasized the show’s theme, ”Tonight, we witness the fruits of boundless creativity, passion, and dedication." Supporting this vision, Our Own Little Way Production Company orchestrated a seamless event. With captivating LED visuals by motion graphic artist Isaiah Cacnio and a live DJ set by Ean Mayor of UDD, the night transcended the ordinary, becoming a multisensory feast for attendees.

Designers and Their Compelling Narratives

The collections presented during "FOREGATHER" were deeply personal, each telling a unique story. Anne Christine Tiu’s By Virtue Of explored the transformative journey from pain to empowerment, while Diana Lei Abanto’s Lepidoptera celebrated the fleeting beauty of imperfection. Nikka Bañaga’s Incandescence urged audiences to find joy in the present moment, and Gianne Belle Pabrua’s Flowers in Our Autumn Wind wove a poignant tale of grief and acceptance.

Rogeline Uchi’s Melody of Waves combined music and timeless design, while Clyemae Suarez’s Unfiltered Confidence was a fearless ode to individuality. Catherine Nicole Sta. Ana’s The Playroom turned creative chaos into strength, and Hanz Nabong’s 3:00 reflected on introspection and the weight of life’s pressures. Sophia Isabella Reganit’s Oubaitori celebrated perseverance and self-belief, and Jilliane Theresa Louise Santos’ From Fragments to Form epitomized resilience and renewal.

Graduates from the 2-Year program added their voices to the evening’s symphony of creativity. Dexter Leil Monette Deala’s Lost Romance conveyed a story of heartbreak and unbreakable resolve, while Gio Leandro Nogales’ In Divine Timing found inspiration in Dante’s "The Divine Comedy." Krystel Ayao’s Untethered Cosmos pushed boundaries, and Kimberly Rios’ Passerby reflected the fluidity of life through Italo-disco influences.

Neil Angielo Mindanao’s Ready Set Gal paid homage to childhood memories, while Selina Tiu’s Paracosm honored the resilience of youthful dreams. Kyla Jin Gregorio’s collection explored the beauty of imperfection, and Mara Sofia Imperial’s Transcendental Decay celebrated the passage of time and the aesthetics of aging.

An Unforgettable Night of Creativity and Community

"FOREGATHER" was a gathering of stories, dreams, and ambitions. Each design showcased the power of fashion to transcend fabric and thread, transforming into a medium for connection and meaning. As these 20 designers step into the world, they carry with them the lessons, skills, and vision honed through their time at SoFA. The future of Philippine fashion looks brighter than ever, with this new generation poised to leave their mark on the global stage.