N/L collection for Lakat drew from the ideas of being in nature, finding happiness, and connecting to wellness.
The creation of a robust supply chain and a sustainable design ecosystem has been an integral theme of the LAKAT narrative since its conception. The brand’s DNA is strung together by it links with weaving communities in Kabankalan, Negros, pineapple farmers, local shoe makers, and family-run rubber farms. I
Lakat founders Michael and Banj Claparols are firm believers in the power of art and design to amplify the message of sustainability to a larger audience.
Launching exclusively at ArteFino, Lakat’s newest collaboration with design duo Nazareno/Lichauco (N/L) was an idea hatched in 2023. “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,” Michael shares. “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.”
The N/L collection for Lakat drew from the ideas of being in nature, finding happiness and connecting to wellness. “In this post-pandemic, digital age, Nazareno/Lichauco longed to return to nature, history and utilitarianism. When one thinks utilitarian, one thinks of something designed to be practical or useful. In philosophy, utilitarianism is a concept that prescribes actions to maximize happiness and wellbeing. That, after all, is why we are here on earth anyway, isn’t it?” Michael and Banj explain.
The first prototypes were completed within three months of design development. But it took an entire year before the collection made of eight styles was finalized and produced. “The crucial first step was coming up with the design for a new collection,” Michael and Banj share. “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 Nazareno/Lichauco team shares that they resonated with the innovation and craftsmanship that went into every pair. “This is the first time we designed for a certain type of pineapple fiber, and we really wanted to play with colors, contrasts, and shapes. Using the azo-free dyes was definitely important, especially since we have to be socially conscious of the objects we design and buy.”
“Lakat is a product that will allow consumers to be actors in this new mindset- gaining happiness by contributing to the conservation of the environment. The wave design also goes hand in hand with Lakat’s sustainability goals of supporting life below water, not only on land. We endeavor to create awareness through sustainable streetwear and create happiness for those who wear Lakat shoes.”
Lakat x Nazareno/Lichauco will launch exclusively at the ArteFino Fair 2024 from August 22 to 25 at the Fifth at Rockwell. For more updates, follow LAKAT on Instagram @lakatsustainables.
