Pascua, Elmar

Pascua, Elmar
@_by_eem /@_e_lmar

The Kabsat Collection draws inspiration from the innocence of childhood memories and the timeless beauty of traditional provincial weddings (nakasanayang kasal), reimagining these cherished traditions through fusion bridal wear and couture gowns that blend nostalgia with contemporary elegance. Rooted in a personal story, the collection incorporates vintage inabel fabric passed down from my mother’s siblings breathing new life into heirloom textiles that honor family roots and connect the past to the present. By transforming table skirting techniques often seen in provincial wedding venues into refined couture detailing, the collection elevates familiar elements of celebration into symbols of craftsmanship and cultural pride. Each piece reflects the grace of provincial heritage and the intimate bond between siblings, embodying love, unity, and identity, while offering a heartfelt expression of memory, transformation, and connection for the modern dreamer.

I am Elmar Pascua, a Fashion Design and Merchandising student at De La Salle College of Saint Benilde. As a designer, my vision is rooted in storytelling, memory, and cultural identity, blending tradition with contemporary innovation. I focus on creating couture gowns that embody both elegance and emotional depth, drawing inspiration from heritage and personal narratives. My work empowers individuals by transforming garments into symbols of confidence and connection whether for bridal wear, ceremonial occasions, or statement pieces that celebrate identity and self-expression.

The most challenging part of designing this collection was deciding not to rely on beading, which I knew would be extremely difficult, and instead pushing myself to create larger, textured, and eye-catching garments that demand attention and command the spotlight. My favorite stage of the process was developing the paneling patterns and carefully working with my vintage fabrics, giving special care to expanding their scale while preserving their value and history. One piece that went through the most transformation was Look 2, particularly the raffia skirt, which I initially struggled to complete, but with the guidance of my mentor and the support of my friends, I was able to fully realize it. This collection helped me understand my identity as a designer, teaching me that creating bold, oversized garments is challenging but allows me to express my creativity and childhood memories more clearly. Throughout the process, I remained dedicated to my original vision while welcoming guidance on execution, and completing one of the largest collections in my batch made me proud of my perseverance and growth as a designer.