Every so often, I take a step back to share the stories behind my favorite projects, some very personal and close, from the process, the challenges, and the meaning behind each piece. This one’s for good friends about to enter a new phase: a design that merges tradition and modernity, heritage and identity.
Earlier this year, Russell and Stef tied the knot in Cebu. And this crazy guy asked me to create a whole custom suit ensemble for him, which is something I don’t normally do, but here we are. The result? The first of its kind bespoke suit made under Love Army. A culturally inspired wedding piece and a union between the Filipino Barong and the American Suit, fit for the actual marriage of this Filipino-American couple!
One of the biggest challenges of this project was that I never even got to meet or fit him in person. He was abroad until a week before the wedding. So we had to virtually measure him through photos, messages, and various references.
One of Russell’s special requests was to include the phrase “TIL DEATH DO US PART” somewhere in the outfit. Instead of adding it to the suit itself, I decided to embroider it in Baybayin (says “Hanggang Kamatayan” in Tagalog) along the left forearm of his pearl-button undershirt. This serves as a small, hidden detail meant to be seen only when he raises his hand to show his ring, somewhat obscure beyond the window panels of his jacket sleeve when worn. It’s subtle, personal, and powerfully symbolic.
The result was a perfect fit, featuring window panels that subtly simulate the traditional transparency of the barong tagalog, built into a tailored suit. Considering the venue (Temple of Leah, a stunning location mostly exposed), the design had to be smart and breathable. This hybrid silhouette made the suit both elegant and ergonomically friendly for the tropical heat of Cebu. Following my recommended accessories to further build upon the suit, the end product was a fit in the palette, and a complement to the overall theme. Russell looked focal and very much on point with his bespoke suit, side by side with his men wearing barong and khakis
Posting this in the spirit of Filipino Heritage Month, as I do what I can for friends.
Very thankful to Russell and Stef for trusting my eye and giving me the chance to create something out of the ordinary, in giving them a piece that bridges culture, craftsmanship, and basically their love story.
Congratulations, Russell and Stef!
