Worn Expressions Finds Community and Culture in the Streets of Manila

From Wednesdays to Worn Expressions

On an ordinary Wednesday in 2015, Red Madiaga decided to turn his weekly hangouts into something more lasting. He called his small project “Wednesday,” a name that marked both a habit and a friendship. The shorthand, W-E, would later evolve into Worn Expressions. This phrase captured what he had been chasing all along: the act of wearing one’s identity and turning everyday life into something expressive and communal.

Cleo Colon, now Red’s creative partner, was one of their earliest models. “That was my first introduction to streetwear,” she recalls. “Red invited me to model for Wednesday during our first year of college.” What started as a casual project between friends gradually evolved into a reflection of how they saw themselves and the world around them. Streetwear, they found, was about participation and belonging to something larger than a trend.

The roots of inspiration

For Red, streetwear began through basketball. He grew up watching games on BTV and found himself drawn to what the players wore. Sneakers became symbols of aspiration and identity. “I loved the sneaker culture that came with basketball,” he says. “That led me to places like Titan 22 and We Legendary. I also discovered local brands like Don’t Blame the Kids. I fell in love with how streetwear empowered people and overlapped with basketball culture.”

Cleo’s entry point came later, through music and community. After her first modeling gig with Red, she began attending hip-hop events, meeting artists and designers who shared the same creative energy.

“That sense of community really drew me in. Streetwear made me feel like I was part of something that celebrated individuality but also connection.”

Cleo

For both of them, streetwear represents more than an aesthetic. Red describes it as “literally what people wear in the streets,” but he adds that it is also “empowerment and what gives you confidence.” Cleo shares the same view: “Streetwear is about comfort and self-expression. Whether it’s a white shirt or baggy pants, it’s whatever makes you feel confident and yourself.”

Built on accessibility and inclusion

That philosophy has guided Worn Expressions since its early days. The brand has grown from a college project into a small but thoughtful label rooted in Filipino creativity. Its approach has always been about accessibility rather than exclusivity.

“From the start, we’ve been about the ‘we’ mentality. One of our early graphics even said ‘Welcome.’ We weren’t into exclusivity. We just had limited resources as students. Now that we can produce more, we can reach more people.”

Red

Cleo shares that perspective. “I think it’s great that streetwear is more available now,” she says. “It allows more people to express themselves and be part of the culture. Inclusivity is what builds a real community.”

As streetwear becomes increasingly global, Red and Cleo remain focused on their Filipino roots. They draw inspiration from the realities of daily life, like commuting under the sun and finding beauty in practicality.

“We think about function and style. The climate shapes how we design. We focus on breathability and practicality while still being expressive.”

Red

Cleo adds a personal touch: “My grandmother’s a bit of a maximalist. She wears pearls even when she’s just home. That inspired some of our designs. We like mixing that boldness with the everyday.”

Growth through reflection

Their approach to design carries a sense of grounded optimism. They see Worn Expressions as a space where growth, both personal and creative, is non-negotiable. “Growth and learning are the things we never compromise,” Cleo says. Red agrees: “You can grow to provide for your family or for yourself. There are contradictions in that, but it’s all part of figuring out your rhythm.”

In an industry that moves quickly and often prizes novelty, Worn Expressions takes a slower and more reflective path. Red believes that the rhythm of creation should be personal rather than imposed. “Streetwear used to insist on its place in culture,” he says. “Now it’s more about self-expression and community. There’s no fixed standard anymore.”

When asked about scaling up or following the traditional fashion calendar, Red is pragmatic. “It would make sense to plan seasons in advance,” he says, “but that’s not how most local streetwear brands operate.

“We grow at our own pace. Scaling should feel natural. If it starts to harm your process or values, then maybe it’s not the right move yet.”

Confidence in the ordinary

At its core, Worn Expressions is a story about identity, collaboration, and evolution. What began as a college pastime has turned into a platform for shared creativity that honors Filipino culture while staying connected to a global movement.

Streetwear, for Red and Cleo, is not about chasing trends or competing for attention. It is about showing up in your own skin, in your own rhythm, and finding confidence in the ordinary.

“We started with Wednesdays,” Red says, reflecting on how far they’ve come. “It was just friends making something together.” Years later, that spirit remains grounded, inclusive, and always open to what comes next.

1. What is Worn Expressions?

Worn Expressions is a Filipino streetwear brand founded by Red Madiaga and Cleo Colon. The brand focuses on combining functionality, comfort, and self-expression while reflecting local culture.

2. How did Worn Expressions start?

The brand began in 2015 as a college project called Wednesday, named after the day Red would hang out. It evolved into Worn Expressions as they developed their designs and community focus.

3. What influences Worn Expressions designs?

Their designs are influenced by basketball, hip-hop, Filipino daily life, and local culture. They emphasize comfort, practicality, and individuality while keeping a unique Filipino identity.

4. Is Worn Expressions an exclusive streetwear brand?

No, the brand prioritizes accessibility and community over exclusivity. They aim to make streetwear empowering and inclusive for anyone who wants to express themselves.