When Chona Bacaoco crafted her first dress at the age of ten in a small barong-barong (shanty house) in Guimaras, Philippines, little did she know her journey would one day take her to Milan—the global fashion capital. Today, Bacaoco stands as a beacon of resilience, creativity, and cultural pride in an industry known for its exclusivity and challenges.
A Childhood of Dreams and Determination
Bacaoco’s roots in Guimaras shaped her future aspirations. Instead of playing outside, young Chona chose to stay by her mother’s side, assisting in their modest tailoring shop. “Guimaras is my inspiration,” Bacaoco reflects. “My fellow islanders are my hope—my success is their success. I want to go back home carrying a basket of success and make them proud.”
Her early fascination with design was evident in her sketches. Each line and curve she drew was a step toward her dream of becoming a designer. Despite financial hardships, she pursued her education, earning a commerce degree from the Colegio del Sagrado Corazon de Jesus in Iloilo City. However, the corporate world couldn’t contain her creative spirit.
Breaking Through in Milan
Moving to Milan was a leap of faith for Bacaoco, one that came with its share of challenges. “In the beginning, I was not accepted as a designer. I didn’t study fashion design, so I was excluded, outcasted, and even cyberbullied,” she recounts. Yet, she refused to let the negativity deter her. “My dreams are bigger than my fears.”
Bacaoco’s determination paid off. In 2016, she founded MM Milano Agency, a platform to help aspiring models and designers who lacked financial resources. Her agency provided opportunities to individuals often overlooked by the mainstream fashion industry. By 2019, she launched her own fashion label, MM Milano, showcasing designs that blended elegance with cultural storytelling.
Cannes Film Festival: A Career Milestone
One of Bacaoco’s career highlights came when she was selected to dress Drusilla Gucci for the 76th Cannes Film Festival. The experience, while rewarding, tested her limits. “I had only three days to complete the dress. It was an emotional journey, and I was worried she might change her mind. But everything worked out beautifully, and Drusilla was very happy,” she shares.
This milestone cemented her reputation as a designer capable of delivering under pressure while maintaining her unique style. Her work at Cannes resonated not just with fashion enthusiasts but also with her community back in Guimaras, who see her as a source of pride and inspiration.
Design Philosophy: A Personal Touch
Bacaoco’s design process sets her apart. She begins by studying her client’s personality, mood, and physical features to ensure each piece feels uniquely personal. This meticulous approach has won her a loyal clientele and allowed her to create designs that are not just garments but also extensions of the wearer’s identity.
Her creations often incorporate elements inspired by her Filipino heritage, showcasing a blend of tradition and modernity. “My roots are deeply embedded in my designs,” she says. “They tell a story of who I am and where I come from.”
Cultural Appropriation vs. Appreciation in Fashion
Bacaoco’s story also intersects with broader conversations about cultural representation in fashion. The industry has long been criticized for cultural appropriation, where elements of marginalized cultures are used without proper acknowledgment or respect. However, designers like Bacaoco are helping to shift this narrative by championing authenticity and collaboration.
The Controversy Around Cultural Appropriation
Several luxury brands have faced backlash for missteps in this area. For instance, Valentino’s 2016 campaign featured African tribal motifs but failed to engage with African artisans or communities. Similarly, Gucci faced criticism for sending Sikh-style turbans down the runway, worn by non-Sikh models, without acknowledging their religious significance.
Dolce & Gabbana also drew ire for a 2018 ad campaign that mocked Chinese culture. The fallout was swift, with Chinese consumers boycotting the brand and calling out its perpetuation of harmful stereotypes.
Moving Toward Respect and Collaboration
In contrast, some brands have made strides toward respectful cultural appreciation. Christian Dior’s 2023 pre-fall collection, for example, paid homage to Indian craftsmanship. By collaborating with Mumbai’s Chanakya School of Craft, Dior not only celebrated Indian artistry but also created economic opportunities for local artisans.
Similarly, Hong Kong-based designer Karen Chan ensures her brand, The Sparkle Collection, stays rooted in Chinese culture by working with master cheongsam craftsman Fung Yau-choi. “Collaboration with cultural custodians is key to authenticity,” Chan notes.
The Role of Consumers
While designers and brands bear the primary responsibility, consumers also play a role in fostering cultural appreciation. By understanding the history and significance of the elements they wear, consumers can support designers who prioritize ethical practices and cultural respect.
Fashion as a Unifier
At its best, fashion has the power to unite people and foster cross-cultural dialogue. Designers like Bacaoco exemplify how personal stories and cultural pride can be woven into garments that resonate globally. “Fashion is a universal language,” she says. “It brings people together, creates conversations, and opens minds.”
Looking Ahead
Chona Bacaoco’s journey from a small tailoring shop in Guimaras to the global stage is a powerful narrative of resilience and vision. As she continues to break barriers in Milan, she remains deeply connected to her roots, using her platform to inspire others and uplift her community.
Her advice to aspiring designers? “Find your purpose. Don’t be afraid to be different. Experiment and take risks. That’s where true creativity lies.”
Through her work, Bacaoco is not only redefining what it means to be a designer but also proving that fashion can be a medium for empowerment, representation, and cultural pride.
This article provides a thorough exploration of Chona Bacaoco’s inspiring journey and places her story within the broader context of cultural dynamics in fashion. It’s tailored for a news platform, blending personal narrative with industry insights.
