Rica Mae Benito

Category: Accessories

Competitions: International

The Heritage of ‘Bolsa’ Balangay, also known as the Heritage of Bag Balangay, is a modern fashion bag inspired by the history and spirit of the Balangay Festival. This unique accessory stands out with its distinct boat-shaped design, wave-like details, and traditional Suyam embroidery, creating a beautiful link to its cultural roots. Made for today's style, the bag is carefully crafted using a mix of high-quality cowhide leather and handmade paper beads. The main body of the bag is made from tough, sturdy leather with special supports inside to help it keep its unique boat shape, while the outside displays a colorful pattern of woven leather. On the inside, the bag is lined with soft, smooth leather to give it a premium feel and make it long-lasting, perfectly blending cultural storytelling with a practical everyday design. Beyond its beautiful look, the bag combines traditional art with smart, functional features. The handle is decorated with detailed Suyam embroidery, a special touch that honors traditional tribal patterns while adding extra beauty and texture to the bag. At the very bottom, the bag features a clever built-in support stand decorated with hanging blue beads that look like ocean waves. This useful design element gives the bag steady balance, allowing it to stand upright on any flat surface without tipping over. By combining strong materials, colorful woven leather, and deep cultural details, the Heritage of ‘Bolsa’ Balangay serves as a perfect example of how traditional heritage can be turned into a stylish, modern luxury piece.

Category: Footwear

Competitions: International

My design is a pair of chunky-heeled, thigh-high boots that directly complement my apparel category entry, also titled “Pintados.” This footwear is intended to be worn as part of a cohesive look with the clothing design, both inspired by the rich cultural heritage of the Pintados Festival and the traditional tattoo art of the Visayan people. Made from genuine cowhide leather, the boots feature laser-cut detailing along the sides, mimicking the intricate Batok or Pintados tattoo patterns. These textured accents bring depth and cultural symbolism into a modern, wearable piece. The silhouette is fitted but slightly stretchable for comfort, and includes a practical back zipper for ease of wear. The chunky heel adds structure and boldness, balancing form and function. This footwear was designed not just as a standalone piece, but as an intentional extension of the apparel design, creating a unified and expressive fashion statement. Together, they reflect my vision of transforming ancestral traditions into contemporary fashion that speaks to identity, heritage, and style. While visually impactful, the boots are also made with wearability and versatility in mind, allowing them to be styled beyond the original look.