“Weaving Tradition into Modern Luxury”
LARA (Waray for “to weave”) is the high-end fashion and lifestyle brand of Samar. It began as a livelihood project to modernize the traditional Tikog grass weaving industry of Basey, elevating the humble banig (sleeping mat) into export-quality fashion staples.
The Mission: To future-proof the dying art of weaving by introducing modern aesthetics while retaining traditional techniques. It empowers the women of BANIG Inc. (Basey Association for Native Industry Growth), turning them from backyard weavers into artisan entrepreneurs.
The Collection:
- Modern Silhouettes: Structured tote bags, clutches, and footwear that blend vibrant, intricate Tikog patterns with leather and high-quality hardware.
- Heritage Design: Each pattern tells a story of Samarnon life—from the waves of the San Juanico Strait to the foliage of the Samar Island Natural Park.
Impact: LARA has successfully broken into the international market, showcasing collections at top-tier trade fairs like Manila FAME and Magic Las Vegas. It stands as a prime example of a government-supported social enterprise that achieved commercial sustainability.