Celebrating Filipino Heritage: Maxime Edward’s Emotional Journey on the Runway in Brussels
In a vibrant display of culture and connection, traditional Filipino fabrics stole the spotlight at the recent Roots and Weaves fashion show held at the stunning La Bellone cultural center in Brussels. The mastermind behind this captivating showcase was Maxime Edward, a talented designer born in the Philippines and raised in Belgium.
A Deep Connection to Heritage
Maxime’s collection wasn’t just about fashion—it was an exploration of identity. “I wasn’t hunting for trends,” he shared. “I wanted a lasting connection with the artisans.” His journey back to his roots was marked by deep emotion. “What touched me the most was the welcome,” he recalled. “It felt like a missing part of me had finally found its home.”
Born in a charity hospital in Quezon City and adopted by a Belgian couple at just nine months old, Maxime’s story is a testament to the power of heritage. Each piece he created was infused with stories and materials from his homeland, bridging the gap between his past and present.
The Runway Comes Alive
On that spectacular evening, 17 models graced the runway, showcasing a stunning array of garments crafted from exquisite Philippine textiles. Handwoven cottons from the Mabilong Weavers of Kalinga, Inabel from Ilocos, abaca and piña from Antique and Aklan, and Hablon from Miag-ao, Iloilo were transformed into contemporary, wearable art.
Maxime skillfully incorporated traditional Filipino styles into his collection, reimagining butterfly sleeves that elegantly framed the hips and infusing sun motifs inspired by the Philippine flag. “I wanted to stay true to my aesthetic,” he explained, highlighting his mastery of structure, construction, and texture.
More Than Just Fashion
The Roots and Weaves event was a collaborative effort by the Philippine Art and Culture Exchange (PACE) and the Philippine Embassy in Brussels, marking the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Belgium. “This isn’t just about showcasing Filipino art and culture,” said PACE president Louise Baterna. “It’s about fostering connections, inclusivity, and lasting relationships.”
Maxime’s unique background made him the perfect designer for this project. His achievements at international platforms such as Tokyo and Vancouver Fashion Weeks have garnered significant attention, propelling him into the global fashion spotlight.
An Emotional Homecoming
For Maxime, highlighting Philippine textiles on an international stage was more than a professional achievement; it was an emotional journey back to his birthplace. “Thirty-four years after being adopted, I’ve reconnected with my roots through fashion,” he shared. This journey allowed him to find inspiration and clarity about his identity.
Though Maxime didn’t face challenges based on his skin color while growing up in Belgium, he was always keenly aware of the unique connection he had to the Philippines. “Part of my identity has always been linked to my homeland,” he reflected.
A Lasting Legacy
Ambassador Jaime Victor Ledda commended the event as a powerful reflection of the deep ties between the Philippines and Belgium. He emphasized the importance of preserving traditional weaving and supporting artisans, especially in inspiring the younger generations to embrace this invaluable craft.
Supported by key organizations like the Department of Agriculture, the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority, and the Philippine Textile Research Institute, the Roots and Weaves event was a vibrant celebration of culture and creativity.
As the final model took her bow, it was clear that this fashion show was about much more than clothing; it was a heartfelt celebration of heritage, identity, and connection—one thread at a time.
