IGOROTAK: A Bold Fashion Statement of Ethnic Pride by Ayra Longsiab

Fashion Runway Manila: Pinoy is about to showcase a collection that speaks volumes about culture, identity, and the power of ethnic pride. Designer Ayra Longsiab from Benguet is set to debut her latest collection, IGOROTAK, a stunning tribute to the rich heritage of the Igorot people, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary fashion in a way that’s both striking and unapologetic.

At its core, IGOROTAK is not just a fashion collection—it’s a statement. A bold declaration of one’s roots, one’s history, and one’s identity. The title itself, IGOROTAK, asserts a singular truth: I am an Igorot. For designer Ayra Longsiab, this is more than a personal expression—it’s a rallying cry to all Igorots to wear their heritage with pride.

Longsiab’s vision was clear: to create a collection that would blend the ancient traditions of the Igorot people with the modern, urban aesthetic of today’s fashion. Her goal was simple: to prove that culture and couture are not mutually exclusive. In fact, they are intertwined, one informing the other in a way that elevates both.

One of the standout features of IGOROTAK is its design inspiration. The collection draws heavily from the warrior spirit of the Igorot ancestors—brave, fierce, and unyielding. The fabric cuts themselves are intentionally crafted in the shape of triangles, evoking the sharp, pointed tip of a spear once used by the Igorot warriors. These weapons were more than tools of combat; they were symbols of strength, honor, and protection.

In a world where fashion often focuses on fleeting trends, IGOROTAK offers something deeper—an opportunity to honor the past while embracing the present. The collection is a fusion of traditional weaving techniques from Benguet, coupled with modern tailoring and cutting-edge design. It’s a bold reinvention of cultural heritage, a reimagining of the Igorot warrior as not just a fighter but a figure of grace, power, and style.

The true beauty of IGOROTAK lies in its ability to speak for itself. Each piece is carefully crafted to tell a story, from the vibrant woven fabrics to the symbolic cuts and shapes that reference the tools and culture of the Igorot people. The statement of this collection is loud and clear: We are strong. We are stylish. We are proud of who we are.

Ayra Longsiab’s collection challenges the notion that fashion must be disconnected from culture. Through IGOROTAK, she has created a platform for the Igorot community—and for all communities of indigenous people—to wear their history with pride, while contributing to the broader conversation on fashion, identity, and cultural representation.

IGOROTAK is more than just a collection—it’s a movement. Through this collection, Ayra Longsiab hopes to inspire others to embrace their own cultural heritage, regardless of where they come from. In a world that often seeks to erase or overlook indigenous cultures, IGOROTAK reminds us all that our roots are worth celebrating. It’s a reminder that true strength comes from embracing who we are, where we come from, and what we stand for.

As Ayra puts it, “We’re not just fighters; we’re strong, stylish, and unapologetically proud.”