Mga Kwento sa Misa De Gallo (Stories from the Dawn Mass), a capsule collection of modern Filipino streetwear made from local handwoven textiles, amplifies the tradition of Simbang Gabi.
The designs capture the time-honored cultural experience and sense of community inspired by the nine-day dawn Masses in anticipation of Christmas, a tradition dating back to the Spanish colonial period.
The designs were conceptualized and created by artists Brian Razon and Kristina Marie Mariano from the School of Environment and Design (SED) of the De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB).
Benilde Fashion Design and Merchandising student Kristina Marie Mariano and Benilde Architecture student Brian Razon
“Simbang Gabi is an underrated phenomenon in fashion,” Razon stated. “This is when people show off their new clothes. Every year, it is literally like a ‘boujee’ season for all.”
Razon, who grew up attending Simbang Gabi with his late brother, admitted how personal this theme is to him. He recalled how they used to wake up extra early in the morning to get dressed. They made it their mission to complete all nine masses—even actively chanting the hymns.
“It was during this season that I spent most of the time with my brother,” he said. “We made it like a small competition, because, at the end of the novena Masses, it was promised that we could make a wish.”
This is why Razon, an Architecture student, was ecstatic to work with Mariano, a Fashion Design and Merchandising student, in this project. The duo combined their talents to breathe life into the idea. The former used his skills in illustration, while the latter applied her knowledge in sewing.
The enterprising creatives utilized the elegant piña, a traditional Philippine fiber, which was provided by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI). They also incorporated the versatile hablon, a handwoven textile from Iloilo, traditionally made with a handloom using fibers such as abaca, piña, and cotton.
Mga Kwento sa Misa De Gallo (Stories from the Dawn Mass) was one of the national finalists of the 2023 Stitch-Off Competition organized by the DOST PTRI.
The final output featured three looks. Each set paid homage to the rich history of the practice, which was introduced in the 17th century by the Spanish friars so farmers could receive the Holy Eucharist before they headed to the fields.
It even reflected the colors of the all-time favorite Filipino delicacies commonly sold in the church plaza, such as bibingka ( rice cake), as well as taho, a Pinoy snack made of fresh soft tofu, arnibal (brown sugar syrup), and sago pearls.
Illustration of Look 3 of ‘Mga Kwento sa Misa De Gallo (Stories from the Dawn Mass)’ by Benilde Fashion Design and Merchandising student Kristina Marie Mariano and Benilde Architecture student Brian Razon
To complete the period ambiance, parol, or the iconic Christmas lantern, served as motivation.
“The process was a full-blown collaboration,” Razon said, beaming. “Kristina and I worked hand in hand to fill the gaps and we are really happy with the results.”
