Photos by Kim Montes, Hannah Alarcon, Andrea Alarcon, Jeremiah Villardo, and Albert Labrador
Last January 26, 2020, the Philippine fashion brand, Bench, held Ternocon 2020— a fashion event that highlights the craftsmanship in designing the native formal ensemble of women. Through MINT Fashion program manager, Maggie Gineta, students got the first-hand experience and exclusive backstage pass to this event.
Ternocon 2020 is a nationwide competition and showcase of various fashion designers’ take on the “terno”. The participants were guided by terno expert and designer, Gino Gonzales.
MINT Fashion students experienced first-hand an event dedicated to showcase the craftsmanship in creating the Philippines’ national costume, the “terno”—a traditional ensemble of a long, flowy saya (or skirt) and bilowy blouse with its distinct crisp arched sleeves. They had the exclusive access for Ternocon last January 26, 2020.
Students under MINT’s official photography organization, MINT Photo Club, together with Fashion students Caryll Cabuhat, Kinny Andrada, and Aleksa Meily; joined various rising and established fashion designers put together their own versions of the terno. This competition and runway show was led by terno historian and designer Gino Gonzales and fashion designer Inno Sotto, who also visited MINT College once for the Fashion program’s terno design and making.
The event was also graced by various well-known celebrities wearing their best Filipiniana and terno.