A young dreamer from Nueva Ecija, Philippines, Tristan Magundayao recently introduced a new women’s streetwear brand to the Los Angeles fashion scene even in an ongoing pandemic. Tristan Magundayao’s Higher + Higher Studio caught Hiraya Magazine’s eye for its unique way of empowering women through fashion. He is able to create pieces that have classic lines, modern edges, and elevated shades without undermining the wearer’s comfort. It truly is a gift that Tristan’s keen eye and unadulterated passion brings confidence to the women who wear his pieces.
We were eager to reach out to Tristan to curb our curiosity and share his story to everyone.
Tell us about yourself and your journey into becoming the founder of Higher + Higher Studio. When did you discover your interest in creating streetwear fashion?
Hi, thank you. My name is Tristan Magundayao, Creative Director (Founder) of Higher + Higher Studio a contemporary women’s wear brand based in Los Angeles, California. I was born in Nueva Ecija, Philippines and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce major in Business Management and Entrepreneurship at San Beda College. In 2009, I migrated here to the United States.
I have been working in the fashion industry for 15 years. I started by managing clothing retail stores and made my way into becoming a fashion buyer, product developer, merchandiser and a wardrobe stylist. Since then, I developed my knowledge, skills, and passion for the fashion retail business.
I’m often asked “Why street wear?” Because you can wear it from day to night looking effortlessly chic!
“My vision is to showcase the impeccable craftsmanship of Filipinos to my audience.”
How did Higher + Higher Studio start? What was your inspiration behind the brand?
I launched Higher + Higher Studio last August 2020, during the pandemic. For the past 10 years, I have been dreaming about having my own label but there was still a lot of missing pieces in the puzzle. Until one day it just hit me, I want a brand that reflects my personal style inspired by the city and street lifestyle with a design aesthetic of modern, minimal, classic and edgy. A brand that will give the wearer that extra boost of confidence and feeling “powerful” all mixed into one. Thus, Higher + Higher was born.
Hiraya means imagination and vision – What is your vision for yourself as a designer and for your brand?
My vision is to showcase the impeccable craftsmanship of Filipinos to my audience. Thus, majority of the collection was ethically manufactured in a small family-owned cut and sew business in Manila and Bulacan (Philippines). Nothing is mass produced so we can focus on the quality and maintain the exclusivity of each piece. This way, we can also provide business and employment to Filipino families.
Any advice for upcoming designers or entrepreneurs? What are the challenges that you or your brand have faced?
We’ve experienced quite a few hiccups from delays of receiving the products due to constant change in shipping schedule because of the pandemic – to customs import standards. Also, the Philippines being a tropical country we cannot foresee any upcoming typhoons. And since we launched during the pandemic (still ongoing), a lot of women started working from home and we are still figuring and testing out our marketing strategies on how to incorporate our pieces into their everyday look. What I’ve learned so far is to trust the process, don’t be too hard on yourself and have patience, a lot of it! That would be my advice to upcoming designers and entrepreneurs.
Check out Tristan and Higher + Higher Studio on Socials!
Website: https://higherhigherstudio.com/
Instagram: @iam_tristan & @higherhigherstudio
