Page 180 - Philippine Tatler (April 2019)

LuLu Tan-Gan

Mention her name, and
exceptional knitwear comes
to mind.
Since 1985, Lulu Tan-Gan
has been considered the
Philippine Queen of Knitwear
thanks to an iconic line that
redefined the position of knitted
garments and accessories in
the local fashion scene. Over
the years, her work has played
up local motifs and reimagined
traditional garb for a new age.
But Tan-Gan’s work has
gone beyond fashion and the
mere creation of garments;
indeed, she also plays a part
in promoting indigenous
Filipino design, as she
draws inspiration from local
fabrics and traditional crafts.
However, she is quick to
advise that anyone who seeks
inspiration from the country’s
tribal peoples needs to know
sensitivity and understanding
when dealing with them.
“Understanding the culture
of indigenous peoples is
important,” she has said.
“Remember that, for them, it
may be an invasion. Hair and Make-Up JOHnSOn eSTreLLa OF MaC COSMeTiCS