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Telling Timeless Stories Through The Language Of Fashion

Jul 11, 2023
Telling Timeless Stories Through The Language Of Fashion

Telling Timeless Stories Through The Language Of Fashion

They say that the clothes we wear tell a story about us, but for some, fashion choices are a reflection of their relationship with, not only their individuality, but their culture and roots. Here at LOOQAL, we believe that less is more – where small-batch, heritage-based production = uniqueness. But what does it mean to embody heritage and culture through the clothes we wear? There are three ways in which fashion becomes the medium of cultural expression and storytelling: representation, technique, and social impact.

Representation matters

Various cultures and groups first used symbolism and drawings as tools for communication. Over time, this has evolved to the different languages as we know it. Incorporating these designs as patterns, prints, or inspiration is a visually compelling way to represent one’s culture.



OliveAnkara, for example, is a slow fashion brand that celebrates diversity and aims to make traditional African-inspired clothing for women (and men and kids, too!) of all colour. Produced in very limited numbers by hand, their pieces blend Ankara print fabrics and Italian fashion designs: vibrant, joyful, and perceptible quality.

Another way to represent heritage is through the use of local, indigenous raw materials that can only be found in certain countries or regions.



Conceptualised and designed in Portugal and made in the Philippines, Gustoko Lisboa bags are crafted by Filipino artisans, using natural fibres, leathers, wood and shell, native to the archipelago. Encapsulating Filipino history, tradition, and craftsmanship, the bags range from quietly elegant pieces to fun, bold, and unique designs. They use indigenous fibres such as abaca and bantal which are then weaved using an ancient technique.


Preserving technique

Craftsmanship, like local folklore and legends, are often passed on from generation to generation. In the industry of fashion and design, more and more brands are going back to the basics and reviving almost forgotten traditions of weaving, embroidery, painting, and other creative art forms.



Designed and hand sewn in Kyiv, Bravo Collection’s signature apparel brings to life traditional Ukrainian sewing techniques and craftsmanship on beautiful, summery apparel. They also only use 100% natural linen that is grown in Ukraine and other Baltic countries – a true ode to the founder’s roots. Get to know her more in our Founder Chat episode featuring Bravo Collection and Nadia Bremner.


Giving back to the community

What all of the brands above have in common is that, apart from representing their heritage or preserving generations-old techniques, they always look back at and give back to the people. Whether it’s by empowering communities to be self-sufficient or providing them with their basic needs, purposeful fashion brands that have chosen to preserve their heritage have given the people hope, support, and opportunity by allowing them to thrive in what they do best. This is why we constantly advocate for shopping small, local, and slow. Each purchase will have a ripple effect to the community that made it with love, sweat, and passion. Discover our growing array of heritage-based brands on LOOQAL. .


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