Emerging from the unassuming black gate of Holy Carabao Farm, visitors encounter a vibrant scene. Instead of vast grasslands, they are greeted by an events venue, a school, and a cafe. Stepping into The Farm Shed, the heart of the farm, one is welcomed by fashion designer and co-founder Hindy Weber. The tranquil atmosphere sets the stage for a gathering of like-minded individuals: Jessica Choy Daez, Ariana Coronel Go, Eya and Nana Uy, the co-owners of minimalist brand Apara; womenswear designer Dona Lim; and knitwear designer Ana la O’. These women, meeting for the first time, share a common passion: slow fashion. Grounded in the principles of the Slow Food Movement, slow fashion emphasizes quality over quantity, ethical production, and environmental consciousness. It encompasses the well-being of everyone involved in the fashion cycle, from farmers and dyers to consumers. Hindy Weber’s journey reflects this holistic approach. Having grown up immersed in nature and the arts, she seamlessly blends her passions in her fashion label. Her designs prioritize natural dyes and sustainable materials, such as linen, hemp, bamboo, organic cotton, and silk, embodying the colors and textures of the earth. Ana la O’ shares this commitment to conscious materials. Her knitwear pieces utilize organic cotton yarns from the HABI Philippine Textile Council. Drawing inspiration from her surroundings, she creates designs that are both understated and subtly unconventional. The Apara team, known for their seasonless, versatile designs, approaches fashion with a similar emphasis on ethical practices. They collaborate closely with their Filipino manufacturing partner, supporting over 5,000 workers and subcontractors. Their creative process is a collective effort, leveraging the diverse perspectives of each team member. Dona Lim embarked on her fashion journey more solitarily. After pursuing economics and psychology, she discovered her passion for fashion through creative courses. Her designs showcase her commitment to sustainable materials, including Tencel fibers, bamboo, and recycled polyester. She emphasizes the importance of patience in implementing her vision, ensuring that her designs align with her ethical values. Underlying these designers’ work is a deep understanding of the interconnectedness between nature, fashion, and well-being. The regenerative practices employed at Holy Carabao Farm serve as a reminder of the cyclical nature of life, inspiring them to create fashion that respects both people and the planet.
Slow Fashion, Sustainable Practices: Fashion Designers Gather at Holy Carabao Farm
