Neil Mindanao Designs for Self-Expression and Empowerment

How Neil Mindanao translates authenticity into fashion

For Neil Mindanao, streetwear goes beyond mere trends—it’s an act of self-expression. From his quiet beginnings in Batangas to the loud energy of Manila, Neil is emerging as one of the Philippines’ streetwear designers to look out for. 

“I was introduced to streetwear by looking at the people around me,” he says. “I love observing people. For me, that’s being authentic — and streetwear is something that’s authentic.”

Growing up outside the capital city, Neil grew up in an environment that wasn’t exactly into fashion—yet, he felt drawn to explore it. Moving to Manila to study at the School of Fashion and the Arts opened his eyes to a broader world of aesthetics and ideas. “Learning about other people is good,” he adds. “It makes you discover more things about yourself.”

This habit of reflection and observation continues to shape his approach. To him, the shift in streetwear is symbolic of something bigger. “Before, streetwear was just a style,” he muses. “Now, it’s an armor — people feel confident and stay true to who they are.”

For Neil, designing means storytelling. His clothes aim to make wearers feel empowered. “I want people to feel like themselves when they wear my garments,” he explains. “I design not just to be out there, but to tell a story.”

It’s a philosophy that was evident in his graduate collection, turning memories of playing with childhood cars and wanting to play with Barbie dolls into wearable recollections. 

But his perspective extends beyond personal narratives. He sees streetwear as a living, breathing culture — one that reflects how communities express their roots. This means a growing dialogue between global influences and local heritage. 

“Designers are incorporating more local culture into their designs,” he says, when asked about streetwear and fashion across Southeast Asia. “That allows you to discover the beauty of your own country.”

When asked what’s next, he points to a future that honors both the past and progress. “Fashion is fast-paced, but we should look back at history while moving forward,” he reflects.

Neil reiterates that this era of streetwear — and fashion itself — is defined by empowerment and individuality. His garments remind us that style isn’t only about what we wear, but how truthfully we wear who we are.

Chief of Editorial Content Patrick Ty

Photography Joseph Bermudez

Art direction Mike Miguel

Fashion Corven Uy

Grooming and hair Jean Anganangan, Crish Marfil, Patricia Marcaida, and Dhanver Serrano (Nix Institute of Beauty)

Model Christian Bootle (Monarq Agency)

Production design Studio Tatin

Production Francis Vicente

Lighting direction Rojan Maguyon