Baguio-born designer Harvic Dominguez highlights a decade of creative contributions by blending indigenous aesthetics with contemporary fashion at the DECADA fashion show.
Baguio-born designer Harvic Dominguez recently showcased his creative vision at the DECADA fashion show, an event celebrating a decade of his contributions to the fashion industry. Held in Baguio City, Philippines, this event turned the spotlight on traditional Cordilleran aesthetics, merging them with modern design sensibilities.
Dominguez’s journey began in the highlands as a member of an Applai-Kankanaey family. Growing up in a politically engaged family — his father served as mayor in Tadian during the 1980s — he gravitated more toward the arts, spending his formative years sketching and developing his artistic skills. His role as an editorial cartoonist for the Baguio Midland Courier during his high school years further enriched his creative repertoire and deepened his ties to the local community.
The designer’s initial entrance into fashion was somewhat accidental. While coordinating an event, a last-minute cancellation by a designer led him to quickly rework thrifted clothes, known locally as ukay-ukay. The success of this impromptu collection ignited his career and brought him national attention in 2011 when he became a finalist in a prominent competition organized by the Fashion Design Council of the Philippines.
Despite his growing recognition, Dominguez felt a connection to his roots and decided to return to Baguio. Inspired by the geographical diversity and cultural richness of the Cordilleras, he began to focus on integrating indigenous elements into his fashion line. Collaborating with local artisans, particularly from Narda’s Handwoven Arts and Crafts, he crafted designs that blend modern aesthetics with traditional weaves, promoting both the art of weaving and local artisans.
Reflecting on the impact of his designs, Dominguez stated, “I continue to support Cordilleran weaving in all my works, as it’s a vital part of our heritage. But beyond that, my vision is to elevate the local fashion scene by introducing new designs that combine tradition with contemporary techniques.” This commitment not only supports local craftspeople but also aims to propel the Cordilleran fashion scene onto global stages.
The DECADA fashion show featured an impressive display, encompassing five segments with over 60 models. It was also marked by a collaboration with noted fashion photographer Eros Goze, leading to the launch of Terraces Magazine, which aims to honor the traditions and landscapes of the Cordilleras. One of the standout segments, called “Spectrum,” showcased vibrant colors beautifully interplayed with Narda’s handwoven textiles, demonstrating the adaptability of traditional fabrics in contemporary fashion contexts.
Dominguez expressed gratitude for the turnout of the Cordillera Fashion Expo and the collaborative spirit surrounding Terraces Magazine, emphasizing the importance of community unity in promoting regional arts and culture. He remarked, “What makes our region thrive is our unique and innate sense of unity — embracing our culture and showing unwavering support for our arts and artisans.”
Baguio City’s designation as a UNESCO Creative City for Crafts and Folk Arts in 2017 aligns with Dominguez’s mission. This recognition honors Baguio’s long-standing traditions in various crafts, further amplifying the importance of preserving and promoting Cordilleran heritage.
Looking to the future, Dominguez is committed to fostering opportunities for upcoming Cordilleran designers, stressing the importance of mentorship within the fashion community. He envisions a collaborative environment where young talents can flourish, further preserving and promoting the rich cultural identity of the Cordilleras.
As Terraces Magazine continues to carve out a niche for Cordilleran creatives, its editorial team sets out to enrich the region’s artistic landscape, with a shared vision of celebrating and nurturing the unique artistic identity of the highlands. Dominguez concluded his remarks on the ever-evolving nature of culture and fashion by stating, “Through my designs, I want to show that our culture is not static — it evolves, just like fashion.” His work emphasizes that design is not merely about garments but about weaving together narratives that encompass identity, history, and community.
Source: Noah Wire Services
