Top Filipino Designer Rajo Laurel Just Turned Childhood Nostalgia Into a Masterclass of Modern Design

A meditation on memory

Filipino fashion house RAJO, led by Rajo Laurel, debuts its Spring/Summer 2026 collection, “Child’s Play.” This personal exploration of storytelling reflects on how the colors and experiences of early life shape our consciousness, later emerging as nostalgia, comfort, or joy.

Rajo aims to capture the honesty of how children engage with the world, responding to color without hesitation or judgment.

Intentional color

The philosophy behind the collection draws inspiration from the visionary work of Nina Tolstrup, particularly her Bethnal Green Mews House, where color is utilized with both playfulness and precision. 

The palette utilizes soft neutrals and warm earth tones to create a foundation of calm, punctuated by unexpected infusions of electric blue, citrus, and saturated primaries. These colors reveal themselves gradually through movement, appearing in a lining, a panel, or a detail that unfolds upon closer inspection.

Fluidity and refined play

The garments in “Child’s Play” are designed to be experiential, inviting a mindful engagement between wearer and fabric. Construction echoes the spontaneity of play while maintaining the brand’s signature codes. 

Materials were chosen for their aesthetic qualities and their ability to absorb, reflect, and transform color under varying conditions. The result is a collection that invites a slower and curiosity-driven approach to fashion.

New beginnings and availability

Coinciding with the launch, RAJO has expanded its physical presence with a new boutique on the 2nd Level of SM Aura Premier, which opened on April 6, 2026.

The SS26 collection will be available at The RAJO Store locations in Power Plant Mall, Shangri-La Plaza Mall, and SM Aura Premier starting April 11, 2026, with an online launch on rajolaurel.com on April 14.