An independent artisanal local brand, known in the scene for its trailblazing avant-garde “art clothes” not usually seen on the streets, steps out of its usual trails to release a ready-to-wear collection.
HA.MÜ’s RTW brand müü.haa seeks to revamp school uniforms with items that can be easily styled with existing garments in the closet.
“While HA.MÜ tends to be more focused on silhouette, detail, and the translation of art into clothing form, müü.haa is easy to use and wear,” noted Abraham Guardian, one of the brand’s designer duo.
He added, “It reinvents the perception on how people would see their uniforms—functional, versatile but also something that you do not have to put too much thought into while putting your outfit together for the day.”
Created out of quality cottons, twills, and pinstripe fabrics, the diffusion line consists of uniform shirts and shorts, pajama sets, two-paneled denim jeans, multi-way wrap-around overskirt and dress, two-toned pinstripe coat, and pinstripe and pleated denim trousers.
Guardian and Mamuro Oki’s RTW label likewise offers limited edition prints and patterns such as the Doodletime button-downs, Shapes vest, and Two-Faced quilted vest, as well as accessories like the müü.haa sports socks, upcycled bucket hats inspired by Boy Scouts and toy soldiers, and sleek Paper Bags made of genuine leather.
“We wanted to add our own playful twist to the details of the garments that we designed while taking into consideration the various functions and activities these pieces would be best suited for,” explained Guardian.
With sustainability in mind, the young artists ensured each item was carefully constructed to minimize production waste. “Fabrics are picked out to fit the respective functions and will last in your wardrobe for many seasons,” added Guardian.
Currently, Guardian and Oki are hands-on for the re-edition of müü.haa which was created through the Management and Incubation Programs of Benilde Hub of Innovation for Inclusion at Peter D. Garrucho Jr. Innovations Institute under the mentorship of Basic Movement designer Esme Palaganas.