A New Era of Streetwear: Getting to Know Designer Ellis

Creativity can take you to places you've never been before, but the best part is being able to express yourself. For Ellis, the designer and founder of .ARCHIVES, this is what fuels his passion for reimagining streetwear on his own terms and introducing Filipino talent to the global scene. With his boundless imagination, he is making his mark in the local fashion industry, and beyond.

Ellis' journey began in 2019 when he started his first clothing brand. He quickly discovered his love for fashion and began designing pieces on the cutting edge of style. Ellis credits his design process to his admiration of designers such as Virgil Abloh, Nigo, and Yohji Yamamoto. "I always try to challenge myself by experimenting with different cuts and techniques, which I try to showcase in my current brand," he says. His brand, .ARCHIVES is a streetwear label that draws inspiration from hip-hop culture and the music he listens to.

His Vision

Ellis' love for fashion began with creating custom t-shirts and hoodies for his close friends and family. As his passion for design grew, so did the complexity of his creations, which now include blazers and jackets. Ellis challenges himself by experimenting with different cuts and techniques, which he showcases in his current brand. His creativity flows naturally, and he always carries his sketchbook with him to capture his ideas. "I always begin by sketching, no matter the environment I’m in. Inspiration always strikes me randomly, that’s why I always have my sketchbooks with me at all times," he tells PARCINQ.

Of course, being a young designer in a highly competitive industry is not without its challenges. "One of the biggest challenges for me has been finding access to good fabrics and raw materials," Ellis admits. "As a new designer, it takes time to build up your network of suppliers and establish yourself in the industry." He believes in pushing boundaries and overcoming challenges, which is what led him to showcase his first collection at Rakuten Fashion Week in Tokyo, Japan. "As a young brand, being able to showcase in a platform such as Rakuten Fashion Week was already a defining moment. It was definitely nerve-racking and challenging, so I’m thankful my team pulled through," he recalls.

A New Edge

Ellis' signature blazer, with its unique lapel design, is one of the most memorable pieces he has created. "The design for that came to me through a dream," he says. "I remember getting up at 4 am to sketch the design, and I knew right away that it was something special."

Looking to the future, Ellis is excited about what lies ahead for his brand. "Right now, we're focused on our second collection and our ready-to-wear line, which we're planning to release later this year," he says. "I'm always looking for ways to grow and evolve as a designer, and I'm excited to see where this journey takes me."

For Ellis, the key to success in the fashion industry is persistence and a constant drive to improve. "My advice to other young designers and creatives is to never give up and always have the hunger to be better," he says. And one thing is certain: Ellis will bring us to the future of streetwear at his pace and on his terms with talent and creativity.

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Photo by Rxandy Capinpin

Grooming by Mycke Arcano

Words and Interview by LA Bendana