OJ Hofer took Japanese minimalism to the runway with his calligraphy-inspired looks for the Panasonic Manila Fashion Festival 2018 . Defined by relaxed silhouettes and muted gray tones, the designer took the sacred Enso symbol of Zen Buddhism to create his pieces. Usually a hand-drawn circle, the enso is an expression of freedom, elegance, and fluidity.

The influence of this symbol is not only evident by the circles drawn on a few of OJ's clothes, but by their structure as well, or the lack thereof. Characterized by a slouchy fit, this collection is essentially a modern take on traditional Japanese Samurai clothing reminiscent of their shitagi robes and wide-legged hakama pants. Judging from the runway looks, these light and airy pieces can be casually worn with a pair of Converse sneakers proving the ideal incorporation of traditional clothing to contemporary designs.




Produced by Yanna Lopez and Steph Sison
Photographed by Karlo Torio
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