Ivarluski x Bitagcol: Complementary and contemporary
For a pop-up happening over the holidays, the beginnings of the Ivarluski Aseron and Jo Ann Bitagcol collaboration couldn’t have been more apt, given that the two designers hatched the idea over dinner.
Being friends and colleagues—and even each other’s supporters, as they often wear each other’s designs—it seemed natural to go in that direction, to come together and showcase their designs side by side in a shared space.
Although their aesthetics differ in concept, both Aseron and Bitagcol lean towards contemporary design. Amid talks about this idea of a pop-up, they found that they also shared the same vision for presenting their designs and crafts. This common thread grounded the concept for their pop-up. And as both designers’ works fill up the space, set up with mannequins and racks, an array of their works is put on display.
Puzzles that come together
The pop-up, located at Power Plant Mall, is a stark white space akin to a gallery, allowing the art—that is, their designs—to truly be the focus.
Aseron’s collection for the pop-up features separates for men and women, with a key design point of his collection being the jigsaw piece detail. Those who have followed Aseron’s designs may recognize the motif from his 2023 Red Charity Gala collection. “Puzzles were a childhood pastime of mine,” Aseron says. “They also symbolize autism, which is very relevant for me since I have a nephew who is on the spectrum.”
The subtle playfulness of the jigsaw piece’s shape, rendered on classic shirts in the collection’s neutral color palette, is juxtaposed with grid-patterned tulle, sharp pleats, and flowy skirts. Much like the puzzle, Aseron’s collection is made to mix and match.
Kimono silhouettes and oversized pieces
Meanwhile, Bitagcol presents new editions of her designs. Boxy tops featuring her signature barong prints are reimagined into kamisa chinos. This collection also includes pieces in the sporty kimono silhouette, a new form in Bitagcol’s design repertoire.
Bitagcol’s collection for the pop-up also features oversized scarves, skirts, pants, and tops in prints, patterns, and colors, defining her design style. Also included in the pop-up are lace dresses featuring her Terno Terno prints, as well as detachable terno sleeves from her Ternocon presentation.
It is evident how well-matched this collaboration has become, with both designers complementing each other’s design identities, each one quietly distinct without clashing or overpowering the other.
Ivarluski and Bitagcol’s pop-up collaboration runs from December 2025 to February 2026 at R2 Power Plant Mall, Makati City
