The designer celebrated the union of beauty and balance, and unveiled a collection that captures harmony in six distinct yet interconnected parts
Balance can be harder to achieve than the perfect fit. It requires a keen sense of proportion in every detail. Hence, it’s more than just a technical skill but a philosophy that guides Francis Libiran at the intersection of culture and craftsmanship. At Harbin Fashion Week 2025, the designer opened with “Harmony”, a collection built around a compelling question: What does it take to create beauty that feels whole?
RELATED: EXCLUSIVE: Janeena Chan on Shopping Smarter, Living Better, and the Art of Consumption

Breaking the Ice, Opening the Show
Set against the dramatic backdrop of China’s “Ice City”, Harbin Fashion Week is an event where experimental aesthetics thrive. Held at Harbin, known for its winter tourism and recreations, the showcase holds a particular resonance for Libiran, who has participated five times. “Harbin holds a unique charm,” he says. “The designers here are bold and adventurous, with a strong inclination toward experimental textures and silhouettes that align with the city’s reputation as a hub for innovation.”
This year marked a milestone: for the first time, Libiran was entrusted with opening the week. More than a personal achievement, it was a moment of significance. To see Filipino design herald such a global event sends a message about the role of artistry in bridging gaps and finding common ground.

“It symbolizes recognition of the artistry and the level of craftsmanship we bring from the Philippines, proving that our work can hold its own among the world’s best.”
– Francis Libiran on Filipino craftsmanship on a global level
Harmony in Six Parts
Libiran named his collection “Harmony” with purpose. Each piece within its six sub-collections—Air, Water, Earth, Light, Shadow, and Spirit—mirrors a different aspect of balance: a perspective through which to view cohesion. While distinct in textures and tones, they are united by fluidity. From ethereal layers reminiscent of drifting clouds to structured silhouettes echoing the solidity of earth, every design feels like a poetic tribute to the balance found in nature.

Take “Air”, for instance, which translates lightness into layers of sheer fabrics that seem to float. “Water” flows with calmness and power, featuring reflective materials, cascading drapes, and fluid lines that evoke movement. “Earth,” on the other hand, is where grounded textures and earthy tones create a sense of permanence.
“Light” radiates optimism, with luminous fabrics, radiant embellishments, and shapes that catch and play with illumination. “Shadow” explores depth and mystery, using dramatic tones, formidable cuts, and textured contrasts to suggest complexity. Then, “Spirit” connects it all, representing the intangibles—hope, creativity, and resilience.

Each sub-collection contributes a texture to the conversation, yet together, they feel like a suite of contrasts: soft against strong, tender against bold.
The decision to create six sub-collections wasn’t arbitrary. In many cultures, six symbolizes completeness, a fitting metaphor for a collection that strives to feel full, balanced, and intentional.
Global Filipino Unmatched
The collection means more to Libiran than just design. “Ultimately, I want my work to inspire conversations about culture, sustainability, and the universality of beauty in its many forms,” he explains. “Fashion isn’t just about making something beautiful, but about reflecting who we are and where we come from”. Through “Harmony”, Libiran demonstrates what Filipino craftsmanship stands for: pride.

The roots in Filipino artistry are unmistakable, from the reimagined traditional patterns to the painstakingly created handwoven textiles. But what makes the collection even more special is its ability to feel personal while speaking to a universal audience. It prompts us to think about balance not as a fixed state, but as an ongoing pursuit that anyone can relate to.
Meaningful Details
Harbin Fashion Week is often seen as a platform to make a statement, but Libiran’s “Harmony” feels more like a whisper than a shout. It asks viewers to pause, reflect, and connect—to the designs, to the culture, and, ultimately, to themselves.

This is why it matters. “Harmony” offers something subtler and more enduring. It’s a reminder that beauty isn’t just in the details, but in how those details come together. In that quiet convergence, Francis Libiran finds the balance he’s been chasing all along.
Photos: HARTMAN CREATIVE COMMUNICATIONS & PRODUCTION AGENCY