Lakat Sustainables launched its newest collaboration with design duo Nazareno/Lichauco (N/L). The new products’ design ethos falls in line with brand founders Michael and Banj Claparols’ vision of “using the power of art and design to amplify the message of sustainability to a larger audience.”
For their N/L collection, designers Rita Nazareno and Gab Lichauco drew from the idea of “being in nature, finding happiness and connecting to wellness.” The pairs made their debut at the recently concluded ArteFino Fair.
The dynamic duo further explained: “In this post-pandemic, digital age, Nazareno/Lichauco longed to return to nature, history and utilitarianism. When one thinks utilitarian, it is about something designed to be practical or useful. In philosophy, utilitarianism is a concept that prescribes actions to maximize happiness and well-being. That, after all, is why we are here on earth anyway, isn’t it?”
Talking about the partnership, Michael said: “CITEM/FAME contacted us and told us that Nazareno/Lichauco will lead the designers for the Fashion Sector in the Design Commune Program. We basically grabbed the opportunity. For us, N/L is in a league of their own when it comes to high level design. Their vision and values align with ours especially when it comes to taking into account sustainable development goals, innovation and high design sense.”
Natural elements
The first prototypes may have been completed three months into the design development process, but it took an entire year before the collection consisting of eight styles was finalized and produced. “The crucial first step was coming up with the design for a new collection,” says Michael and Banj. “Then it was a process of making it commercially viable. Continuous communication between designers and producers was key. Then gaps in the design process and setting up the product line were filled.”
Each pair from the Lakat X Nazareno/Lichauco collection features shapes and forms reminiscent of “glamping” near a lake or traveling to the beach. Color blocking of earth tones as well as vibrant reds, pinks and purples explore the design possibilities when using azo-free dyes and working with Philippine tropical fibers.
The dynamic duo from N/L further shared that they resonated with the innovation and craftsmanship that went into the product of every pair. “This is the first time we designed for a certain type of pineapple fiber, and we wanted to play with colors, contrasts, and shapes. Using the azo-free dyes was important, especially since we have to be socially conscious of the objects we design and buy,” said Rita.
