In the chaotic streets of MANiLA, where culture, history, and modern aspirations intersect, a new vision of LUXZURi is emerging. It’s not just about high-end labels or the aspirational dreams of wealth but about celebrating the essence of Filipino creativity and the concept of diskarte. This vision is brought to life by LiFE DESiGN, an up and coming streetwear brand that marries the vibrancy of Filipino culture & stories with the creativity of inspired designers. At the helm are Xylk, affectionately known as Pigo the Pinoy Nigo, and Fisayo aka Fleaf, two visionaries who believe in the power of storytelling through fashion.
THE ROOTS
Before their collaboration on LiFE DESiGN, Xylk and Fleaf followed unique journeys filled with creativity and challenges. Xylk, originally started out in the music industry, transitioned from playing music to designing band merchandise to creating a global sensation, the Grocery Bags. On the other hand, Fleaf’s journey took him from a corporate job to the fashion capitals of America, where working alongside icons left him spiritually depleted, ultimately leading him back to his roots and eventually into a partnership with Xylk.
THE SHARED PHILOSOPHY
The collaboration thrives on a mutual philosophy: “iNNERGY is currency.” It embodies the synergy of creative minds doing things in their own way, coupled with the audacity to believe in their ability to create. This defines LiFE DESiGN’s ethos—a movement committed to creative problem-solving.
THE STORY
From going to Paris Fashion week, and getting into David Lynch’s club to meeting Mowalola and creating moments out of pure good energy. LiFE DESiGN is more than just a brand; it’s a way of life led by the indomitable Filipino spirit.
It aspires to be a global ambassador of Filipino culture, showcasing the ingenuity and unique identity of the Philippines. This drive stems from an understanding of the transformative power of culture and creativity.
LiFE DESiGN is making noise and echoes a broader movement taking place in Asia, particularly in the Philippines. The brand represents a departure from traditional LUXZURi, focusing instead on “FUNWEAR,” a narrative-driven approach that resonates deeply with the Filipino people. Each design is a collaboration not just among artists but with the community, going as far as venturing out in the streets of Marikina to find suppliers who make basketball jerseys to print their merchandise. Making sure that the final product is crafted from a real place by real characters.
THE GROCERY BAGS
Grocery Bags, the sister company of LiFE DESiGN, serves as a proof of concept to their innovative approach. What began as a necessity turned into a cultural statement, blending humor, style, and utility in our daily life. This concept of repurposing ordinary items into objects of desire, humorously integrating Filipino culture and LUXZURi fashion motifs, captures the essence of what LiFE DESiGN stands for – transforming the mundane into the extraordinary.
THE DREAM
“It’s a dance between our ideas and Filipino craftsmanship.”
The founders of LiFE DESiGN have ambitious dreams, including establishing a headquarters in the Philippines to create jobs and foster a creative ecosystem. Their vision extends beyond fashion; it’s about crafting a movement that champions Filipino creativity and the joy of living—a movement where LUXZURi is defined not by price tags but by the richness of experiences and stories.
“I think what’s more important than the actual product is the perspective.”
Perspective plays a big role for Xylk and Feaf. To do something that has never been done before, you have to see things in your head that no one else saw. They both feed off that energy, and they also understand that it comes with a lot of discomfort and growth. And as LiFE DESiGN continues to lay the groundwork for their brand, their focus remains on the journey rather than the destination. This is MANiLA LUXZURi, a celebration of life, creativity, and the unbreakable Filipino spirit, embodied by two visionaries who dare to dream big.
The clothes or any other announcements are still a work in progress but if you want to support the movement, check out GROCERY BAGS and follow them on Instagram @welife.design to get a glimpse of their perspective on life.
