Cover To much anticipation, designer Jor-El Espina opens his first atelier in Manila (Photo: Courtesy of Before Deadlines)
To much anticipation, designer Jor-El Espina opens his first atelier in Manila (Photo: Courtesy of Before Deadlines)
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After 20 years in design, Jor-El Espina opens his first atelier in Manila
Patrons of contemporary Filipino design have found a new home in Jor-El Espina’s first Manila atelier. The space invites distinguished friends and clientele to connect and exchange stories of craft and creativity. Setting up an atelier was a natural progression for Espina, who divides his time between the capital region and his home province of Iloilo.
He comments, “We didn’t just want to build a space to showcase our designs. Our intention was to create an immersive experience for our clients.”
While mapping out the space, Espina wanted to draw inspiration from his patrons. For him, it was essential to create an environment that can also serve as a creative hub. “The atelier allows us to engage more personally with all our patrons—offering a deeper connection with our craft, story, and commitment to contemporary Filipino design.”
Related: Jor-El Espina rings in 20 years in fashion design with ‘Adaptation’
Above Iloilo and Manila-based fashion designer Jor-El Espina (Photo: Courtesy of Before Deadlines)
Iloilo and Manila-based fashion designer Jor-El Espina (Photo: Courtesy of Before Deadlines)
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The studio reflects Espina’s design philosophy, echoing the naturally simplistic and idyllic parts of Filipino culture combined with modern industrial sensibilities. This essence permeates the space, making it “intimate yet aspirational” and a reflection of the women he dresses.
A highlight of the atelier is a bespoke fitting area where patrons can fully immerse in the rituals of dressing, described as an intimate corner where “dream designs come to life.” There is also a display area featuring pieces that celebrate the designer's knack for rich patterns and textures. He reflects, “I’d like to think of our atelier as a sanctuary for local creativity and elegance.”
More from Tatler: Style and Heritage: Dennis Lustico celebrates his silver year in fashion at the Goldenberg Mansion
Above Take a look inside Jor-El Espina’s first Manila atelier, located in Makati (Photo: Courtesy of Before Deadlines)
Above Take a look inside Jor-El Espina’s first Manila atelier, located in Makati (Photo: Courtesy of Before Deadlines)
Take a look inside Jor-El Espina’s first Manila atelier, located in Makati (Photo: Courtesy of Before Deadlines)
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The opening of the atelier has also sparked an interest in other lifestyle categories. Though the studio remains focused on creating garments, they are eager to incorporate other products that reflect Espina’s aesthetic. An addition of artisanal accessories and curated home pieces will surely enrich the Jor-El Espina retail experience.
Espina states, “From the moment they walk in, they’ll feel the warmth of Filipino hospitality combined with the sophistication of a modern atelier. This isn’t just a place to shop. It’s a space for exchanging stories and inspiration. Here, design dreams are made tangible. We endeavour to redefine the shopping experience by turning every visit into a sensorial journey into the world of contemporary Filipino design.”
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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
