House of Musa Returns to New York Fashion Week with Comeback Collection and Collaborative Craftsmanship
An advocacy fashion brand from the Davao Region is making a triumphant return to one of the world's most prestigious runways, blending style, collaboration, and cross-cultural storytelling on a global stage. House of Musa will present its sixth New York Fashion Week showcase at 5:30 p.m. on February 14 at Gotham Hall in Midtown Manhattan, with the event set for February 15 in the Philippines.
Comeback and Creative Direction
The show marks a significant comeback for founder-designer Joy Soo, who returns to the NYFW runway after a health-related hiatus. Her new collection shifts focus to modern silhouettes and business-chic looks, moving away from traditional formalwear. "This is more of an executive look that's fashionable," Soo explained. "Later, I'll return to Filipiniana styles." The collection will be modeled by 15 participants, featuring textile artworks by California-based visual artist Marconi Calindas, who integrates his patterns directly into the garments.
Global Impact and Advocacy
Cindy Mac, CEO and director of House of Musa–USA, leads the production team for this milestone event. "This is our sixth season," Mac said. "Every year is special, but this year is extraordinary because it's the comeback of Ms. Joy Soo." She emphasized the brand's unique approach: "We don't use common fabrics. The artwork itself becomes the fabric, combined with Musa textile." New York, as one of fashion's "Big Four" capitals, offers unparalleled global exposure, making this showcase a critical benchmark for the brand.
Sustainable Collaboration and Logistics
The production highlights deep collaboration with artisans from Davao del Norte, including persons deprived of liberty. All garments, accessories, and materials are shipped from Tagum City, sustaining local livelihoods. "Everything we wear comes from Tagum — the outfits, shoes, earrings, hats, purses," Mac noted. "I don't collaborate with designers here because I want to sustain livelihoods there." The models, referred to as "advocate models," help shoulder costs by purchasing the outfits they wear, fostering a community-driven approach.
Personal and Professional Milestones
For Soo, this show represents both personal and professional growth, having presented at NYFW since 2022 before her hiatus. Mac, a kidney transplant recipient and breast cancer survivor, finds the work deeply rewarding. "The advocacy gives me a rewarding feeling that I'm really helping," she shared. The showcase fuses contemporary fashion with multicultural craftsmanship, featuring beadwork and accessories from partner makers. Soo concluded, "House of Musa is not about the designer. It's about everyone in the house."
