CLASSY, chic and effortless is how Weave chief designer and creative director Brit Romero describes the Weave woman, “who looks for more than just the ordinary. She is image-driven, style-conscious yet practical.”

In December 2015, Romero and managing director Thias Tanbonliong teamed up to open Weave—an online fashion retailer catering to the selective, style-savvy customer.

Inquirer To Be You sat down with the two young entrepreneurs to talk about their venture’s latest collection.

CREPE sleeveless top and crepe asymmetrical skirt in mustard; brown slip-on booties, Charles & Keith

What sets Weave apart from other online shops?

Tanbonliong: At Weave, we don’t just sell garments; we make them. Together with our experienced production team, we market quality items, each one a result of skilled artistry and integrity.

We made the website (weave.com.ph) simple and easy to use by employing less words, applying straightforward buttons, and making it look clean and minimalist.

We’ve also made it interactive by allowing our customers to “Mix and Match” their garments with just a few clicks. They can also add friends to make them their shopping buddies, view their wish list and send them gifts.

Where did you get your inspiration for this collection?
Romero: My vision for this collection is to introduce the contemporary woman. I decided to stick with classic silhouettes but also incorporated a distinctive yet wearable twist.

These non-typical cuts and patterns were inspired by the shapes of some architectural buildings that caught my attention during my travels—especially the works of British architect Tom Wright.

Shifting to RTW

In 2014 we featured you as a young upcoming designer specializing in custom-made gowns and dresses. What made you shift to RTW?
Romero: I love making intricate gowns but I wanted to offer something that women can comfortably use every day. This led me to apply my passion in fashion designing to the production of affordable ready-to-wear (RTW) designer pieces. I want to create pieces for women that would make her look comfortable and effortlessly beautiful. This is my perspective of the Weave woman.

What’s your vision for the brand?
Tanbonliong: Our vision for Weave is to be a source of an exceptional yet economical lifestyle brand that extends beyond clothing.

How do you keep up with the massive influx of foreign brands with competitive price points?

Tanbonliong: The influx of foreign brands in both physical retail stores and online has intensified competition in the Philippine market. To make Weave a relevant brand amidst this tough environment, we rely on our designers and in-house production team to set high-quality standards for our product line, and at the same time keep our price offerings lower than the competition.

V-NECK jumpsuit culottes in blush; summer hat, Forever 21

Customer service

Moreover, Weave is not just about selling garments. We put great attention to our customer service as well. A dedicated staff is required to respond and offer assistance to a customer’s inquiry within 24 hours.

Compared to the online market leader, we offer every day free delivery within Metro Manila and a quick and easy return and exchange process.

What can you say about the local fashion retail industry?

Romero: The local fashion industry is improving because of globalization. Filipinos are more exposed to fashion than they were before. They have the ability to easily access fashion trends and follow their icons.

I have observed that despite the presence of foreign brands, people are beginning to pay close attention to local fashion labels. I believe that the key to introducing your brand now is by making it available online. It gives easy access to view what you can offer to the market.

What’s in store for Weave this year?

Tanbonliong: We’ll focus on expanding our product line and marketing our brand to reach as many people as we can—whether online or offline.