The Gouache x Anthill collab threads stories into daily wear
Designed with intention, woven with meaning, built for everyday life
Known for its rugged waxed canvas and leather wearables, Gouache once again champions local craftsmanship with the launch of its newest capsule in collaboration with Anthill Fabrics, a social and cultural enterprise that works closely with weaving communities across the Philippines.
The new limited collection features bags, caps, vests, and accessories that fuse utility with storytelling with each piece spotlighting locally handloomed Hablon and Kantarines fabrics in fresh stripe and plaid interpretations. It’s a tactile celebration of Filipino weaving heritage, reimagined for today’s on-the-go lifestyle.
“We wanted to create pieces that feel rooted in culture but built for today—bags, accessories, and aprons that carry both story and heart,” says Louie Poco, co-founder of Gouache. “They’re made tough for everyday use, but with enough texture and narrative to spark conversation.”
Beyond style, the collaboration is a quiet yet powerful act of cultural preservation. The weaves used in the line are produced by weaving communities with many of them women-led who pass down generational techniques that Anthill helps modernize and sustain.
“This collaboration felt like something that was always meant to happen,” shares Ann Enriquez-Poco, co-founder of Gouache. “When they introduced us to their woven Hablon and Kantarines in modern plaid and stripe patterns, we were immediately drawn in. The weaves felt fresh and contemporary, yet carried the depth of generations of craft—an ideal complement to our signature utilitarian silhouettes like totes, slings, and vests. But the partnership wasn’t just about adding color or flair. The fabrics brought rhythm and warmth to each piece.”
The result is a line that doesn’t just use local textiles but centers them. The woven fabrics aren’t decorative add-ons, they’re integrated into the actual build and function of each item.
Each product is made in small batches, following a slow and intentional production process using locally sourced materials. The Gouache team carefully cuts and assembles the waxed canvas and pairs it with hand-selected woven fabrics, chosen not just for their color, but how they complement the form, feel, and function of the piece.
“Our team cuts and assembles the waxed canvas, then layers in the handwoven fabrics—each one thoughtfully selected to match the shape, function, and feel of the piece,” Ann shares. “There’s a lot of handwork involved, plenty of trial and error, and constant back-and-forth with Anthill to make sure everything aligns. It’s slow, intentional, and very human—with several rounds of prototyping, and a fair mix of anxiety and excitement. But that’s exactly what makes the process so fulfilling.”
With this drop, Gouache x Anthill invites wearers not just to carry a bag or wear clothes but a piece of cultural narrative, woven with purpose, built with care, and designed for everyday stories.
Discover more about the Gouache x Anthill collection through gouachebags.com
