Taking off from various current and global fashion influences, Penshoppe’s holiday collection follows the successful progression of Nautical Punk, Rock Punk, and Retro Punk with an eastwest, vintage-subculture fusion called Retro-Oriental.

Far from the traditional holiday concepts of most, the combination of punk, Anime and traditional Oriental elements takes inspiration from key cities in Asia, which boasts of rich cultures and traditions, merges it retro style, and tempers it with classic and streamlined silhouettes and cuts to create a more alternative yet ultimately wearable selection for the Christmas season.

Notably, each Penshoppe collection has taken inspiration from international runways and trend forecasts—on this occasion, the often eclectic Asian mix that are evidenced in, among others, the dragon graphics of Yohji Yamamoto, Chinese ink prints of Jayson Brundson, robes and obi belts of Proenza Schouler, Rubin Singer, Alessandro Dell’Acqua and Alexander McQueen, and the variations on Chinese, Korean, and Japanese traditional dress by 6267, Balenciaga, Prada and Dior. Combined with design influences rooted in the obsessions of local youth culture—such as Anime and music—the Retro Oriental collection serves up a uniquely Filipino casual clothing style.

Rich colors, bold prints and seamless cuts are key to this season’s looks. For guys, hooded jackets, cardigans, and classic polos and tees are emblazoned with oversized oriental dragons, bold Chinese brushstrokes and kabuki masks. Additionally, edgier military details and punk prints and patterns such as skulls and crossbones, racing checks, and rocker stripes add a more masculine feel.

Carrying over vintage and retro elements from the previous season, this season’s women’s wear spices up existing styles with a distinct Oriental twist. Separates come in striking jewel tones and feature Asian floral prints and iconography, while hooded tees with delicate cherry blossom prints and kimono tops with Buddha or geisha graphics solidify this season’s sexy yet girly street style. Additionally, floaty fabrics, empire cuts, dainty bows and sashes infused with oriental prints and rich colors will soon Staples such as Denimlab jeans—notably skinny jeans for both boys and girls—pair up nicely with the Retro Oriental pieces. The new, very flattering high-waisted denims, however, are a trendy option to go with the collection, perfect for a piled on and more dressed up look.

Penshoppe is located in all major malls nationwide.

Photography: Dairy Darilag
Styling: Joel G. Ontong
Makeup: Angie Cruz at Shu Uemura
Hair: Nikki Bacay at Traffic Salon
Model: Nikki Gil and Matteo Guidicelli
Location: Palm Court Café, Diamond Hotel Philippines
Clothes: Penshoppe Retro-Oriental Holiday Collection