Fresh off the back-to-back celebrations marking his 20th year as a fashion designer, Jor-el Espina is showing no signs of slowing down. As it was in the earlier years of his career, the contemporary Philippine designer continues to discover, learn, and expand his craft. “I always approach my work with a beginner’s mindset. With an open mind and dedication,” he shares. “For the first quarter of 2026, I am concentrating mostly on brides. I’ve been given the opportunity to work with women who are keen on wearing modern Filipiniana custom gowns on their special day.”

 

 

Although Jor-el is widely known for his pret-a-porter designs, he has built an A-list clientele through custom or bespoke work. “I’m excited about launching a Filipiniana Bridal line soon, that will allow me to connect with my brides and offer them more options when it comes to choosing their dream wedding gown.” This new feature, he reveals, will be available at his atelier in Makati where ARAO’s Fine South Sea pearl jewellery are also showcased. 

 

 

 

1. How did you come to find your current career or life’s work?

 

“I've always wanted to be a designer, even as a young high school student. I would pore through issues of fashion magazines, admiring and studying the beautiful clothes of legendary designers. So in that sense, I was certain about the path that I would take. Interestingly, I started in this industry as an accessories designer. 

 

Soon I began to design clothes for family and friends. Through word-of-mouth, I began to grow my clientele in my hometown in Iloilo. Even back in those days, I was already making gowns for weddings and other special occasions.” 

 

 

 

2.  What is it about your work or career that you enjoy most? 

 

“I love the process of creation and crafting beautiful things. My work allows me to be on this constant journey of discovery and exploration.” 

 

 

3.  What do you consider to be “hazards of the job?

 

“I honestly don’t think that there are hazards to doing what you love for a living. If anything, I feel that there are only areas that present an opportunity to grow and improve. These areas for me would be production and sourcing of premium materials. 

In my studio, I am always looking for ways to elevate and upgrade. In terms of production, my team and I do our best to ensure that we produce the best quality possible. Internally, it has always been important for me to have people who are passionate about this craft.  I’ve also invested more in my inventory of materials–premium fabrics–so that clients have a wide selection to look at and consider.” 

 

 

 

4.  For people who aspire for similar careers, what would be your advice?

 

“It’s easy to assume that a career in the creative field is all fun. And while there is a degree of truth to that, this does not mean you can take your studies or training lightly. To succeed in this industry, you have to commit. Do your homework. Know your history.

“It is also important to be authentic. You don't need to follow trends or conform to what’s popular or trending. Stay true to your aesthetic.” 

 

 

5. What are the career milestones that inspire you to break the glass or mold?       

 

“Participating in ArteFino, the biggest artisanal trade fairs in the metro, really opened doors for me to breakthrough in Manila. It also developed me as a Philippine contemporary designer of ready -to-wear garments.

Celebrating 20 years is also something that I consider to be a milestone and blessing. We did a series of collaborations and launches last year to mark two decades. Up to this day, I still cannot believe that I’ve been in this industry for 20 whole years. 

Now that I’m on my 21st, I feel like I’m starting all over again. Always moving with an open heart and a beginner’s mindset.” 

 

 

 

6. How do you balance work and family life? What are activities that enable you to

bond with family?

 

“This is one area in my life that I am honestly still working on. I honestly don't have a work-life balance to speak of. I think it is because I don’t really compartmentalize work with personal life. They always overlap in certain areas. Whenever I am back home in Iloilo, I like to spend time with my family by eating out and staying in to catch up.” 

 

 

 

7.  How do you unwind or rewind? Any favorite spots in your current city that you consider your “me-time” haven?

 

“I unwind by seeing friends even if it’s just for a quick meal. Time spent with them helps me deal with stress. In Manila, there are lots of restaurants to choose from. In Iloilo, however, we usually just stay in our homes and catch up.”

 

 

 

8.  How would you describe your personal style? What are three your wardrobe

essentials? 

 

“I’m definitely an eclectic dresser. I love mixing things up. Three of my wardrobe essentials would be: a good bag. I love to collect bags from both global and local designers. I also love the boxy shorts of Bitagcol. I think I have every print that she has ever released. And finally, the pleated trousers of Issey Miyake. I have them in every color.” 

 

 

9. What makes for a good investment piece? Kindly cite examples of pieces in

your current wardrobe. 

 

“I think it is good to invest in barongs. You can wear it over and over again to the most important events in your life. Jewellery is also a true investment that you can wear for years and also pass on. I got my love for jewellery from my mom.” 

 

 

10. What do pearls mean to you?

 

“I’m currently looking for pearl fine jewellery to add to my personal collection. I see these gems as symbols of timeless glamor. It is also the national gem of the Philippines which looks stunning when paired with a Filipiniana piece.”   

 

 

11.  What is everyday luxury for you?

 

“For me everyday luxury is quality time spent with family and friends. It is also time for yourself to relax.”