Step into style and get an exclusive look at LAKAT's latest collection, where the beauty of nature meets the sophistication of high design.

In the vibrant world of fashion and design, where innovation and tradition often intertwine, LAKAT by Nazareno/Lichauco stands as a beacon of sustainability and creativity. Founded by Michael Claparols and Banj Claparols, with design masterminds Rita Nazareno and Gabriel Lichauco at the helm, LAKAT represents a harmonious blend of cutting-edge design and deep-rooted Filipino craftsmanship. Launched in 2021, LAKAT has quickly become known for its commitment to environmental consciousness and artisanal quality, with each collection telling a story of sustainability and cultural pride. 
As they prepare to showcase their latest collaboration at the Artefino Fair 2024, we delve into the minds behind LAKAT to explore their journey and vision for the future of fashion.

Can you tell us how you got together to collaborate on this new collection?
Michael: I think one big factor there was that we shared the same values. I think the vision, also, when it comes to sustainability, innovation, using new materials... so, when we were given the opportunity to engage with Rita and Gab, it was a no-brainer. No questions asked. We believe in their higher sense of design. And that made a big difference. In our working relationship, it was easy. They understood our capabilities. Designing is one thing, but converting them into production, that's a totally different setup.

What was the design process like in the beginning? How did you come to fruition with the design that you have now?
Rita: We were tasked last year by CITE/FAME to do a concept for designing communes. Nazareno/Lichauco came up with Utilitarian PH, and this was a part of it. We really wanted to look at this kind of post-pandemic world where we wanted to go back to nature, to history, and to utilitarianism.&nbsp;
Gabriel: It's [the] activities that everybody took for granted during the pandemic. Everybody was just so hungry to be out. So that's something that we wanted to use as direction.
Rita: And we also were interested in colors. We wanted to push that and see if they could do with two tones, contrast stitching, and offer a variety of colorways that are both bold and understated, that we thought everyone could gravitate towards. Very genderless in both colorways and design.

What are the key elements that you always include in your collections?
Michael: When a consumer or a customer wears LAKAT, it&rsquo;s also a statement of well-being and protecting the environment, which is part of our advocacy. The design with the waves symbolizes not only protecting land but also the sea. This is in response to climate conditions and the negative impact of the textile industry, like microplastics in the ocean. Our material and design carry this symbolism and aim to raise awareness while supporting communities and environmental goals. So hopefully, it becomes a reminder, [and] becomes a vehicle for awareness for everyone.
Rita: For us, it's using innovative materials and techniques. And kind of pushing the processes and the techniques that you see in Filipino crafts into a more contemporary realm.&nbsp;
Michael: In addition, the uppers of the shoes, its hand-woven from pineapple fibers. The whole supply chain, from gathering the fibers to conversion to yarns, it&rsquo;s all local. That's why it's a powerful symbol of our work. The support of Filipino culture is embedded there.&nbsp;

What advice would you give to aspiring artists or designers who are just starting out?
Gabriel: One is Perseverance. Two, keep experimenting. Be curious. Don&rsquo;t stick to the norm or what is institutional. Because that's just going to box you up.
Rita: Dieter Rams has his ten principles of good design. One of them is good design is long-lasting. Don&rsquo;t design things that will end up in a landfill six months from now. Design something that&rsquo;s long-lasting with quality and sustainability. And be kind. Be kind to everyone. People who work for you, people who work with you, [and] to yourself.
Michael: Learn how to collaborate with the right people, with the same vision and values.
What impact or legacy do you hope your work will leave behind?
Michael: For LAKAT, we&rsquo;re ahead in this one, and I want to maintain being ahead. But more important is to create more impact in terms of livelihood, community support, and increasing awareness of supporting products like this. Indirectly or directly, it will also protect the environment. It will evolve over time. It might change. I want to make it a global product.
Rita: We&rsquo;ve been working a lot with different manufacturers, using different materials and techniques in the Philippines. I&rsquo;ve enjoyed it immensely, and you can see that in our work. Offering something new and pushing their techniques further is cool.
Gabriel: Our goal is for these companies to survive and sustain their businesses. Design is business. If you don&rsquo;t come up with a good design, you won&rsquo;t be able to sell your product, and hence, you won&rsquo;t be able to sustain your business. Design should not be about trends or ego, but about making something that will last.

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