Cover We highlight some of the 5 best fashion schools in the Philippines to kickstart your design journey (Photo: Courtesy of SoFA Design Institute)
We highlight some of the 5 best fashion schools in the Philippines to kickstart your design journey (Photo: Courtesy of SoFA Design Institute)
1 / 1
These fashion schools and programmes offer the tools and knowledge to help you jumpstart your career
The Filipino fashion scene is thriving, with talented designers making their mark both locally and internationally. The country is steadily becoming a hub for style, often embracing sustainability and eco-conscious practices. For those aspiring fashion professionals who are brave enough to dominate this competitive industry, education and community learning are key.
We highlight some of the best fashion schools in the Philippines, incubators for creativity and launchpads for careers in design, styling, merchandising, and many more. If you wish to master the ever-evolving business side of fashion, or if you dream of becoming the next big name in haute couture, these schools offer the tools and knowledge to help you join the sartorial ranks.
More from Tatler: All Eyes On: Chloé opens in the Philippines, Halohalo shuts its doors, and more style happenings
SoFA Design Institute
Founded by Loralee Baron-Soong and designer Amina Aranaz Alunan, SoFA Design Institute offers four-year degrees in interior design and fashion programmes as well as short courses and certification programmes. Its modern, chic campus is located at Rockwell’s the Proscenium. SoFA also offers opportunities to study abroad with world-renowned institutions in Milan and Paris.
Notable alumni: Vania Romoff, Nicolo Perez (nicolò), Gabbie Sarenas, Chris Nick, Pinky Magalona, Carla Zhang (Le Ngok)
De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde Fashion Design and Merchandising
Benilde’s Fashion Design and Merchandising (FDM) programme places a strong emphasis on research and innovation. Its curriculum spans courses such as fashion illustration and art history and integrates traditional techniques with modern digital approaches. A highlight of its program is its annual graduation show Sinulid, a highly anticipated event in the Filipino fashion scene.
Notable alumni: Abraham Guardian & Mamuro Oki (HA.MÜ), Viña Romero, Kelvin Morales, Esme Palaganas
Slim’s Fashion & Arts School
Founded over 60 years ago by Salvacion Lim Higgins, Slim’s has produced some of the most successful, even internationally recognised Filipino designers, from the likes Michael Cinco to Ricky Toledo and Chito Vijandre. They offer a comprehensive curriculum, covering everything from foundational skills to advanced techniques.
Notable alumni: Hannah Adrias, Abdul Gaffar, Jaz Cerezo, Glyn Alley, Martin Bautista, Joey Samson, Ricky Toledo & Chito Vijandre, Michael Cinco, Milka Quin
UP Clothing Technology
UP’s Clothing Technology programme offers in-depth subjects that cover integral aspects of the fashion industry, from clothing production and distribution to consumer behaviour. Renowned for its comprehensive outlook on Philippine fashion, it integrates fashion with science and technology, reflecting the industry’s changing demands.
Notable alumni: Nina Amoncio (Antonina), RJ Santos (Randolf), Len Cabili (Filip + Inna), Jojie Lloren
Fashion Institute of the Philippines
With three campuses located in Makati, Ortigas, and Santa Rosa, the Fashion Institute of the Philippines (FIP) offers a diverse range of programmes beyond clothing design, including hair and makeup artistry. Flexible options such as weekend classes and short courses make it accessible for students with varying schedules.
Notable alumni: Jaggy Glarino, Renz Reyes, Cheetah Rivera, Bon Hansen
About
Julianna has been interested in leading a literary life since she first read Frances Hodgson Burnett's A Little Princess at eight. Before working with Tatler, she was an archive intern at The Center for Fiction in Brooklyn, New York. She is a textbook Pisces who devotes most of her spare time to her crochet projects, watching classic films, and going through her never-ending pile of unread books. She studied creative writing, global literature and art history at Sarah Lawrence College, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 2022. Toni Morrison, Nora Ephron, Clarice Lispector and Jia Tolentino are among her all-time favourite writers.
Work
Julianna writes about fashion, beauty, sustainability, and the arts. She is always keen on conducting interviews with talented women who are changing the game in their respective fields.
For event invites and story leads, hit her up at julianna.cabili@tatlerasia.com
