Carla Gem Buyo

Metro Exclusive: Nicolò Explores the Emotional Cycle of Ambition in ‘Flow State’

Article (news)

<p>What if ambition was never really about arriving? For <strong>Nicol&ograve;</strong>, <em>Flow State</em><em></em><strong><em></em></strong>, his latest collection for <strong>MNL Fashion Week</strong>, looks at what happens in between: the repetition, the pauses, the vulnerability, and the drive to keep moving.</p><div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/178847710385411.png" style="width: 960px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" width="960"></div><p>The collection unfolded in three chapters. The first part of the show entitled &lsquo;Sisyphus&rsquo; looks at Nicolo&rsquo;s nature of work through utilitarian tailoring and workwear references. &lsquo;Narcissus&rsquo; slows things down, bringing in sheer layers and fluid silhouettes inspired by water to explore reflection and vulnerability. Then comes &lsquo;Icarus&rsquo;, where sculptural shapes, movement, and elevated textures speak to ambition and the pursuit of extraordinary goals.</p><div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/17884771351966.png" style="width: 960px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" width="960"></div><div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/17884771501147.png" style="width: 960px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" width="960"></div><p>Together, the three chapters trace the emotional cycle of caring deeply about something and continuing to pursue it, even when progress does not always feel linear. It is an idea that feels especially personal for the designer, who studied Psychology before turning to fashion as a way to bring creativity and functionality together.</p><div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/178847718085610.png" style="width: 960px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" width="960"></div><div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/17884771693569.png" style="width: 960px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" width="960"></div><p>Since launching Nicol&ograve; in 2020, he has also moved from statement pieces toward restraint, finding more interest in proportion, construction, material, and the details that make a garment feel considered.</p><div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/17884771943165.png" style="width: 960px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" width="960"></div><p>One translucent layered look from Narcissus captures that philosophy, balancing structured tailoring with sheer fabric. It reflects the kind of clothing Nicol&ograve; hopes to create: modern and architectural, but still wearable and emotionally expressive.</p><div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/17884772028942.png" style="width: 960px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" width="960"></div><p>Finding joy in the process rather than constantly chasing the destination becomes <em>Flow State</em>&rsquo;s quiet point of view.</p><div><br></div><div><em>Photographed by Pat Buenaobra</em></div><div><em>Creative Directed by Carla Buyo</em></div><div><em>Assisted by Sophia Ancheta and Zoe Althea Agnes</em></div><div><em>Written by Zoe Althea Agnes</em></div><div><em><br></em></div><div><em>Read more MNL Fashion Week stories on Metro.Style</em></div>

<p>At MNL Fashion Week 2026, <i>‘Flow State’ traces the emotional highs and lows of pursuing something deeply.</i></p>

At MNL Fashion Week 2026, ‘Flow State’ traces the emotional highs and lows of pursuing something deeply.

Metro Exclusive: Nicolò Explores the Emotional Cycle of Ambition in ‘Flow State’

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Metro Exclusive: Nicolò Explores the Emotional Cycle of Ambition in ‘Flow State’

Metro.Style

Published September 04, 2026 06:00 AM PHT

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Updated September 04, 2026 08:53 AM PHT

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