Jerome Lorico Finds the Light at MNL Fashion Week 2026

The set was reminiscent of a post-apocalyptic landscape, as if a sea had dried up, leaving mounds of salt in its wake. As otherworldly as this realm was, the ensembles remained unmistakably Lorico.

The designer’s signature knitting techniques were expressed in various forms, from body-skimming frocks and turtleneck tops to delicate minaudières. Linearity was a focal point across many of the pieces, whether expressed through pleats, pinstripes, or unexpected slits and bias cuts.

Notably, the designer subscribed to an almost achromatic palette, save for a section rendered in shades of dark blue. The absence of color, however, was hardly a limitation, as the interplay of textures gave each look plenty of visual interest.

With decades of experience behind him, one could argue that Jerome does not require “something new” to keep his work feeling fresh. In fact, the designer seems less interested in novelty for novelty’s sake, instead pursuing an originality that comes naturally from the house codes he has established over the years.

A tailored suit, for example, is done the Lorico way when proportions are maximized, and contrast is welcomed. There’s a certain awkward or off-kilter quality invited in its design, but no matter what, each hem remains clean, concise, and intentionally cut.

Preview’s associate fashion editor Pau Singh echoes this, saying: “It was especially interesting to see how he softened structured silhouettes such as a suit, and how he ‘toughened up’ sensual cuts by building texture with delicate fabrics.”

At certain points in the show, one could almost question whether a piece was made of fabric at all. The way the materials curved around the body or moved with the wind gave them an organic quality, as though they were alive and breathing.

Jerome himself sees textiles as living entities with potential yet to be realized. “I see fabric and yarn as elements that need to be tamed and mastered. This collection is a contemplation with materials, textures, and the forms and possibilities that they can achieve and reach,” he says.

One of Jerome’s contemporaries, Martin Bautista, identifies with this philosophy of minimalism. “Witnessing Jerome’s storytelling was a beautiful healing experience,” he tells Preview. “It was what I have been craving for with everything that's been happening around the world!”

Having begun his career alongside Jerome, Martin was delighted to see his peer introduce new shapes and textures to the Lorico playbook. On a more sentimental note, he reflects on just how far his friend has come. He shares, “I started in the industry at the same time as Jerome, and witnessing how much he’s grown makes me so proud. He has so much more to show, I am sure!”

Jerome has shown himself to be a true virtuoso, one who still unapologetically creates with his own hands. Deeply in touch with his senses, he creates with intention, acknowledging the primal roots of his craft even as he looks toward what’s next.

With his MNL Fashion Week showing—one that was a long time coming—it becomes apparent that what truly sets a Lorico piece apart is the palpable human touch embedded in every creation.