Jor-el Espina Celebrates Two Decades In Fashion with 20Design Anthologies

Philippine contemporary designer, Jor-El Espina, culminates a year-long countdown to his 20th

year in fashion with a gala fashion show entitled, Jor-El Espina: 20 Design Anthologies

When Jor-el Espina began to think about how he would celebrate two decades in fashion, it seemed impossible for him to capture his creative journey in just one collection or show. “So many things have taken place since I began in fashion,” the contemporary Philippine designer reflects. “This is why we decided on the concept of anthologies–a series, a collection. We began the countdown last year with a series of capsule collections, pocket celebrations and collaborations. For the culmination, I was drawn to the idea of putting together a rich collection of colors, details, texture, fabrics, and patterns. It’s very much like my diary as a designer.”

Inside the Mind of a Maximalist 

20 Design Anthologies embodies the musings, ideas, and dreams of a maximalist. It is a bold departure from the designer’s signature Filipiniana fare–creams, muted tones punctuated by diaphanous fabrics. At the same time, the collection is a rumination of his roots and natural inclinations as a creative. “It’s not the usual Filipiniana theme that you often see in my past collections,” he explains. “Of course the use of local fabrics will be apparent. I’ve been wanting to work with jewel tones and metallics for a long time now and this is the collection where I get to do just that. I feel like the deep hues reflect my aesthetic and fascination with old world glamour.” 

Use of local fabrics, hand embroidery, and reimagined barongs are staple elements that continue to echo the sensibilities of the designer. But according to Jor-el, “This collection pushes the limits in terms of where I can take Filipiniana dressing. I consider this collection as my playground.” He orchestrates a rich visual narrative through details like fringe, intricate beadwork, pailletes, and colored shells. Jor-el details that to elevate his pailettes, he utilizes mother of pearl. Other techniques that add to the richness of the collection include pleating, ruching, and even corsetry which he and his team explore in the process of completing 20 Design Anthologies. 

The collection will be made up of mostly evening wear pieces. Barrel pants are paired with diaphanous tunics. Embroidered serpentine skirts layer beautifully with corseted tops with exaggerated hips. Tulip skirts anchor paillet blouses. “You can also expect lots of volume, bold silhouettes, an explosion of textures and details,” he shares. 

Diamonds and precious stones also added to the grandeur of his collection. He partnered with DiaGold to complete each of the looks from 20 Design Anthologies. “DiaGold’s timeless elegance harmonized with my designs. Our brands are the same in that we both celebrate heritage and craftsmanship while embodying the modern spirit. Together, we tell the story of beauty that is rooted and radiant.” 

Jor-el has been a maximalist by heart. “When I began in Iloilo, creating custom pieces for early clients, I would always explore the use of details, colors, texture, patterns and prints.” As early as 20 years ago, his designs manifested as an early exploration of details. “I had to tone it down a little when I started to do ready-to-wear.” It was in 2017 at the ArteFino when Jor-el began to venture in retail presenting a more contemporary take on traditional Filipino wear. This would birth signature pieces like the bombarong and tapis skirts. 

“In 20 Design Anthologies, I wanted to present something that recalls my love for details. I envisioned a collection that is more art-forward.” 

Giving Back to the LGBTQ Community 

The 60-piece collection will be presented on October 24, 2025 at the Grand Ballroom of Shangri-La the Fort in partnership with the Philippine Financial and Inter-industry Pride (PFIP). Jor-el details, “When I was introduced to the PFIP, I was moved by the work they do in providing higher education for members of the LGBTQ community.” 

The PFIP is the country’s premier advocate for LGBTQ inclusion in the workplace. The non-profit organization, which was founded by five multinational banks based in the Philippines, is dedicated to shaping a safe, inclusive and equitable workplace for the LGBTAQ community.

One of the key initiatives of the organization is the Rainbow Youth Academy Scholarship Program. Its main goal is to “dismantle systemic barriers and uplift underrepresented youth, especially those from the LGBTQ community.”

To raise funds for this initiative, the PFIP will mount a BahaghariCharity Gala, which will showcase Jor-el’s 20 Design Anthologies. The organization explains: “This year’s gala is more momentous as it marks the 20th year of renowned fashion designer, Jor-el Espina. As a designer and business owner, Jor-el champions a diverse and inclusive workforce, believing that creativity thrives when people feel safe, valued, and seen. He fosters a culture of belonging, where every team member, regardless of background, contributes meaningfully to the collective vision.” 

Jor-el adds, “Education is very important, especially for members of the LGBTQ community.” “Being a part of this community, I believe that we each have a role to play in shaping its culture. For me, it’s partnering with PFIPs Bahaghari Charity Gala for my 20th anniversary fashion show to help raise funds for the Rainbow Youth Academy.” 

Jor-el Espina’s 20 Design Anthologies Gala Show will happen on October 24, 2025 at the Grand Ballroom of Shangri-La Fort.