Azkal (2019) was a collection that paid homage to Santos’ native country of the Philippines and discusses her battles with indentity through the idea of performance. The pieces combine pagaentry and military, two entirely different worlds that both have the same goal of survival and honor.
She took inspiration from the vibrant colors of the Philippine pageants with military influence in the details such as drawstrings and tactical vests. Many of the undergarments were her own dye projects, to represent transparency and exposure.
Photo: Sam Santos
Models: Nick Moss, Rahm Bowen
Makeup: Arlene Sanchez
Set Assistant: Dashae Roberts
Styled with “wedding” bodysuit and matching glove
Look 4
Pageant “train” two-layer dress, with playsuit and pearl-stitch finishing